Caribbean Star #37 vol.4

Caribbean First Interfaith Newspaper, Serving The Community

April 10–16, 2015

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Vol.4 #37

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I INTEND TO IMPROVE THE LOT OF GUYANESE …OR ELSE I DON’T WANT TO BE PRESIDENT, SAYS DONALD RAMOTAR GUYANA

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GUYANA

TWELVE police officers were granted a total of $2,520,000 bail by a Sangre Grande magistrate before whom they appeared to answer charges arising out of an alleged incident in which a man was burnt with hot water while in police custody.

President Donald Ramotar (second from right) leading his team to City Hall yesterday.

URLING, CLIVE JAGAN AMONG NEW CANDIDATES BUT PPP/C BANKS ON FAMILY TIES

MAN CHARGED OVER POST OFFICE HEIST, G-3 RIFLE RECOVERED

Alongside the children of party stalwarts, businessman Clinton Urling, dental surgeon Dr Clive Jagan, and the Chief Executive Officer of GuySuCo Rajendra Singh are among the new additions on the PPP/C lists of candidates for the upcoming general elections.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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April 10–16, 2015

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Man charged over post office heist, G-3 rifle recovered

April 10–16, 2015

Embassy releases US$300,000 for elections monitoring

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he United States Embassy has released more than US$300,000 for the election monitoring programs of the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Electoral Assistance Bureau (EAB).

The United States embassy has released more than US$300,000 for elections monitoring ahead of the May 11 polls.

According to the embassy yesterday, the resources will assist in efforts to ensure fair, free, and credible elections in Guyana on May 11th.

“Both the OAS and EAB have a proven track record of successful election monitoring missions and are widely respected. The U.S. Government is pleased to support the two organizations in bringing their credible and critical analysis

to Guyana’s 2015 electoral process.”

The embassy said that the US continues to advocate globally for the expansion and strengthening of democratic governance.

“Regular free and fair elections are critical in this regard. The Guyana Elections Commission has established a strong track record of ensuring free, fair, and credible elections for the people of Guyana, and we have full faith and confidence in its ability to do so once again in 2015. It is our hope that international and domestic observation will increase public and stakeholder confidence in the electoral process, culminating in all political parties’ acceptance of the ultimate results.”

The US said it remains committed to engagement with all stakeholders to help ensure a free, fair, credible, and peaceful electoral process.

NTELLIGENCE information has led the Criminal Investigations Department to the recovery of a service G-3 rifle and matching rounds which were snatched from a police constable last week Wednesday during the Regent Street Post Office heist.Police investigators who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle said that after receiving information, they went to East La Penitence where the weapon was found in a trench.

The minibus which the bandits hijacked The minibus which the bandits hijacked Crime Chief Leslie James confirmed this information when contacted. He said the force is now happy that the weapon is no longer in the hands of criminals, even as the investigations into the $42M Post Office heist continue.

James, when asked if the police were able to lift any fingerprints from the weapon, responded by saying that up to late yesterday afternoon that was not done. He said, however, that despite the weapon was found in a trench that was filled with water, they should still be able to lift prints from it.

The weapon was found in the same area where the bandits reportedly dumped the police constable and the driver of the

Guyana Post Office Corporation vehicle after they held them at gunpoint and hijacked the minibus containing money for pensions and other public assistance funds.

Meanwhile, yesterday Stravo Evans, 31, who has dual addresses had his bail request refused and he was remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry when he appeared before her charged with armed robbery at the Regent Street Post Office in Georgetown.

The court was told that Evans was the person with the gun on Wednesday last when he and others pounced on the post office minibus and hijacked it with the driver and policeman following which they relieved them of the G-3 Rifle and 20 rounds of ammunition which valued $688,000 property of the Guyana Police Force $42,522,000 cash property of the Guyana Post Office Corporation.

The man was also charged with robbing the minibus driver of the vehicle which was valued $3.5 million which was also the property of the Post Office. The court was told that the men were able to escape the area in a waiting fielder motorcar.

By Leroy Smith

Caribbean Star Newspaper Call 347-759-3934 OR 347-661-9930

April 10–16, 2015

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April 10–16, 2015

$2.5M BAIL FOR 12 COPS

By DARCEL CHOY

TWELVE police officers were granted a total of $2,520,000 bail by a Sangre Grande magistrate before whom they appeared to answer charges arising out of an alleged incident in which a man was burnt with hot water while in police custody.

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he 12 officers made their way into the courthouse under the protection of an unusually large number of their colleagues — some armed with machineguns — while a large, angry crowd of onlookers looked on. Many in the crowd demanded that the accused officers be made to walk out of the court in handcuffs like normal accused persons.

“Let them walk out!” was the chant which was picked up by

Caribbean Star Newspaper

some in the crowd who gathered outside the courthouse waiting to get a glimpse of the 12 accused officers who were charged in connection with the alleged burning of then prisoner, Andre Lewis, with hot water at the Sangre Grande Police station in late February.

Those who gathered outside the court expressed their anger over what they believed to be special treatment for the 12 accused officers as opposed to the

usual treatment when handling civilians charged with crimes.

When the officers were leaving the court, two heavily tinted vehicles drove to the back of the courthouse to collect the accused 12 — an act not normally accorded to civilians who face the courts on criminal charges.

Some persons who were waiting under a tent outside the courthouse for their matters to be called or for court matters of their loved ones to be called, shouted, “shame!” as heavily armed officers surrounded the vans as they drove out.

One man noted that when he was arrested and charged, he was not allowed to be taken out of the court in a heavily tinted vehicle. “That not fair at all, why should they get special treatment? Because they are officers,” the man asked. Earlier in the courtroom, an unusual amount of officers gathered, looking on at the proceedings.

The 12 officers appeared before Magistrate Alexander Prince in the Second Court in two groups to answer charges. Nine of the 12 officers appeared first and included SRP Constable Giselle

Skeete, Ag Insp Kenneth Rampersad, Ag Cpl Allan Khan, PC Anil Mootoo, PC Keron Nanan, PC Joel Boodoosingh, PC Ryan Williams, PC Ashki Charles and PC Marvin Mendoza. Prince read out the charge to each of the officers individually. Prince then called a family member of each officer who stood their bail to come forward. The nine officers were granted $250,000 bail each with special conditions.

These conditions included that they (the accused officer) shall not communicate directly with the virtual complainant (Andre Lewis) and they shall not go within100 metres of the virtual complainant or his home.

Lewis was not present in court.

Appearing later were Sgt Glen Elder, PC Ravi Doon and Sgt Nicholas Vialva. Elder and Doon were charged with perverting the course of justice, also on February 24. These two were each granted $250,000 bail with the same conditions given to the first batch of nine accused officers.

Vialva was charged with failing to act pursuant to a report of a serious crime being committed on the said date. This was a sum-

mary offence and when asked to plead, Vialva said he was not guilty. He was granted $20,000 bail with a surety.

The charges facing the 12 officers stemmed from an alleged incident in which Lewis of Coronation Road, Upper Sangre Grande, was detained under suspicion of being involved in criminal activities. He was detained on February 24 at the Sangre Grande Police Station.

It is was further alleged that Lewis refused to cooperate and was stripped naked with a bowl of water which was heated in a microwave oven being thrown on his stomach and groin. Lewis subsequently made a report at the same station where he was beaten and burned while in custody. He was taken to the Sangre Grande District Hospital where he was treated for first and second degree burns. The 12 accused officers were represented by attorneys Patrick Godson-Phillip, Keith Jadoo and Sade Lee Duprey. The officers’ matters were adjourned to May 5. It has been reported that the virtual complainant is in protective custody.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

The Concepts of Hinduism!

Jai Sita Ram, my name is Vidan Paras and I am a humble devotee of the Shaanti Bhavan Mandir. I am appreciative of the opportunity given to me today to write this article. Hinduism is one of the most sublime religion of the world, in which the world is slow to recognize its teachings and the positive effects it has in the development of people in all walks of life. It is not easy to define Hinduism, for it is much more than a religion, it is a way of life. Hindus believe in a universal soul or God that takes on many forms that Hindus worship as Gods and Goddesses, in their own representation but yet there is only one God.

H

induism is also known as the eternal religion or “Sanatan Dharma”. The word ‘dharma’ connotes “that which supports the universe” and effectively means any path of spiritual discipline which leads to God. It is said that, “Hindu Dharma, can be compared to a fruit tree, with its roots representing the Vedas (the sacred scriptures) and Vedantas (the oneness of existence, the divinity of the soul, and the harmony of religions), the thick trunk symbolizing the spiritual experiences of numerous sages, gurus and saints, its branches representing various theological traditions, and the fruit itself, in different shapes and sizes, symbolizing us, the devotees. Another phenomenon that the tree demonstrates well is how life continues uninterrupted even after what appears to be the end, by blossoming into a new plant

reminding us that life is a cycle of birth and death (reincarnation) until final liberation (moksha).

Hinduism brings to us many principles and a vast area of knowledge to elevate ourselves, but the two areas I will try to focus on are, the shad-vikaars, which teaches about the five evils that governs the world and unfortunately is present in each and every one of us, and the gunas, which when understood will guide us to a happy and prosperous life.

Shad-Vikaars (Kaam, Krodh, Lobh, Moha, Ahankaar & Matsar).

Kaam, refers to lust and is one of the greatest evils that tempts people away from God. It makes an individual weak-willed and unreliable. Krodha, is anger and needs to be controlled. A person overcome by ‘krodh’ loses his balance of mind and becomes incapable of thinking. ‘Krodha’ takes a per-

son away from God as hatred has no place in any religious practice.

Lobha, is greed, a strong desire to possess what rightfully belongs to others. It makes an individual selfish and self-centered. It takes a person away from his religious and social duties. Moha, refers to the strong attachment that an individual has to worldly possessions and relationships. It blurs the perspective of a human being and makes him narrow minded. It deviates a person from his moral duties and responsibilities and leads him towards a path of sin.

Ahankaar, means false pride due to one’s possessions, material wealth, intelligence or power. It gives an individual a feeling that he is superior to others and can lead to jealousy, feelings of enmity and restlessness amongst people.

Matsar, means jealousy, a deadly weapon which makes mankind harbor ill feelings towards others because of material wealth or possessions.

The Hindu scriptures teaches some virtues to combat these six evils that are destroying mankind. Wisdom (gyan), should only be used by hearing good, thinking good and seeing good in everything we do. Truthful Living (saat), means living according to the way God intended. Justice (niaon), means freedom and equal opportunities for all and respect for the rights of others. Temperance (santokh), means self-control which has to be developed through meditation and prayers.

An individual has to banish all evil thoughts from his mind by constantly repeating Gods name and reciting prayers. Patience (dhiraj), implies a high level of tolerance and empathy for others. It requires control over ones ego and willingness to overlook another’s weakness or mistakes. A person should be strong-willed, but kind hearted. Courage (himmat), bravery showing all absence of fear.

Humility (namarta), is a deliberate denial of pleasure at one’s own praise and admiration. It means

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underplaying ones’ own strengths and respecting the abilities of others. Finally, contentment (sabar), refraining from worldly fears and submitting oneself to the will of God. Be satisfied with what you have and don’t be jealous of others. Attaining these qualities would do justice to this human body and would serve the true purpose in which it was intended.

Gunas: According to the Bhagavad Gita, nature consists of three primal qualities, which are the main power of cosmic intelligence that determine our spiritual growth.

These are called “gunas” in Sanskrit, meaning “what binds” because wrongly understood they keep us in bondage to the external world. They are Sattva, Rajas and Tamas.

Sattva: is the quality of intelligence, virtue and goodness that creates harmony, balance and stability. It provides happiness and contentment of a lasting nature, with the force of love that unites all things together. Rajas: is the quality of change, activity, and turbulence. It introduces a situation that upsets an existing balance.

Tamas: is the quality of dullness and darkness. It brings about ignorance and delusion in the mind and promotes insensitivity, sleep and loss of awareness. It is the principle consciousness to become unclear. As we live our lives, let us all strive for Sattvic qualities.

Hinduism is such a wide spread topic that just a mere article would not do justice, but in essence it teaches mankind that a pious, truthful and righteous life is what this world need in order to have a better quality of life. Our scriptures draws parallel to our everyday life over and over again, reminding us to use this human body according to the laws governed by God. In essence, Hinduism teaches us as individuals how to navigate through life positively so that we can benefit by the ascending spiritual force to gain final emancipation and avoiding the cycle of birth and death. Thank you for reading my article and hope it will be of some enlightenment. Jai ho!

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

Home Affairs Ministry reports impounding 264 animals last month

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HE Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) yesterday reported that a total of 264 animals — comprising 36 horses, 81 cows, 107 goats, and 40 sheep — were caught and impounded at the police pounds in “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” police divisions during the month of March 2015. The figure, however, represents 35 animals less than what had been impounded during the previous month.

MoHA added that the Georgetown Unit accounted

for 46 cows, 73 goats and 25 sheep; while the Berbice Unit accounted for 36 horses, 35 cows, 34 goats and 15 sheep.

The Ministry continues its appeal to all cattle owners to ensure that their animals are properly controlled during their grazing period, thereby ensuring their safety from being involved in accidents that can result in their deaths, damages to vehicles, and injuries to persons using the main roadways.

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Man charged over $42m heist outside Bourda Post Office

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trader accused of robbing the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) of $42M in broad daylight last Thursday was yesterday remanded to prison after he faced multiple charges.

Stravo Evans, 31, of Lot 169 Middle Road, Georgetown stood accused of six charges when he appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court 5.

It is alleged that on April 1 at Regent Street, Georgetown, Evans, who is a father of one, robbed Andre July of one G3 rifle and twenty-one rounds of 7.62 x 51 ammunition belonging to the Guyana Police Force. He is also accused of robbing him of $42, 522,000, property of the GPOC. Minibus driver in fatal Water St accident remanded It is also alleged that on the same day, the accused being together with others and armed with a gun robbed Darwin Hinds of one pitbull minibus, PSS 6641 valued $3, 400, 270, belonging to the GPOC. Further, it is alleged that Evans on the day of the robbery, wrongfully restrained July and Hinds. And lastly, it is alleged, that the accused abducted the duo.

He was not required to plead to the indictable charges.

The police case stated that on the day in question, around 7:45 hours, Hinds went to the Bourda Post Office in the pit-bull minibus and as he stopped, five men approached them, one of whom was armed with a gun. The men then pushed Hinds and the policeman out of the bus after which one of the suspects drove away in the said vehicle to Cemetery Road.

The facts further stated that after the bus was driven away to Cemetery Road, another car drove up alongside and the accused and others removed the money and other items before making good their escape.

A gun was recovered along with a quantity of ammunition.

The prosecution objected to bail based on the seriousness and prevalence of the offences and the fact that a firearm was used.

During the proceedings, the quiet of the courtroom was disturbed by the ringing of a cell phone. It was later found that it was the defendant’s phone. It was taken away by a policeman after which the defendant accused the law enforcer of tampering with the phone which continued to ring. The policeman explained that he was just trying to turn the phone off.

The defendant is represented by attorney Peter Hugh who arrived almost at the end of the proceedings yesterday.

The matter will be called again on Monday before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Meanwhile, acting on intelligence yesterday morning, police ranks pulled a G3 rifle from a trench in East La Penitence. It is believed that this was the rifle that was stolen during the heist.

Police in a press release said that the rifle along with 20 rounds were recovered around 0910 hours.

Meanwhile, Crime Chief Leslie James told Stabroek News yesterday that the driver of the post office van has been released on bail while the police rank is on open arrest. The duo were arrested shortly after they turned up at the Brickdam Police Station to report the robbery. The gunmen who used the van as their getaway vehicle disembarked along Cemetery Road leaving the driver and the policeman inside.

James said that although one person has been charged the matter is still under investigation.

April 10–16, 2015 Caribbean Star Newspaper RACE TO POLLS – Nomination Day over, D-Day ahead

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ednesday April 8, 2015 was Nomination Day, which means that the big race has officially kick-started between the various political parties jostling for power in Guyana.

Amid fanfare and frenzied support from thousands of ecstatic supporters, the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) yesterday submitted what it described as “a winning list” of candidates on the party’s slate at both the General and Regional Elections billed for May 11.

The Opposition alliance, under a united coalition platform of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), also stormed into the elections race yesterday, presenting its nominations to contest the 2015 polls as the main challenger to the incumbent PPP/C. And of course, there were ‘the usual suspects’ of small parties, a few of which are even labelled as ‘paper parties’ that pop-up around this period known as the ‘silly season’. They add ‘color’ to the whole affair, running in a race they obviously can’t win, and even while some may say they are somewhat of a ‘nuisance’ to the electoral process, they serve as timely reminders that our country’s democracy is at work and is on firm footing.

It is apt to note that elections season in this country has, in the past, been more characterized by campaigns built

‘LISTS IN’: President Donald Ramotar presenting the PPP/C lists to Chief Elections Officer Mr. Keith Lowenfield yesterday (Adrian Narine photo) on the politics of mudslinging than the politics of progress. As much as politics is made out to be a popularity contest, that is not the case. The whole premise of a democratic political system may be summed up as follows: It is a system which credits the majority of people within a particular society with the collective opinion, information and intuition to decide on whom among them they want to govern the social environment in which they exist, giving them the right to either reaffirm

their decision or change their minds periodically.

This key democratic element of socio-political flux means that those who are contesting the political leadership of a country must actually work hard to either retain or gain that leadership. There is no perpetually upheld status quo in which the will and concerns of the people become insubstantial in contrast to the whims and luxuries of an entrenched ruling class. A natural part of any contest is deconstruction of your opponent, even

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in a non-contact sport like long distance running, for example, you try to break your rival down by asserting your superior athleticism the first chance you get.

Of course, we expect our politicians to point out each other’s sins of omission and commission in the carrying out of their expected duties; that is par for the course in any political contest. But the contest of politics is not only about showing the deficiencies of your opponent, but also the reasons why you are better suited for the job that you both are contesting.

Mudslinging is the easiest and cheapest alternative in democratic politics – you throw as much dirt on your opponent as possible while hoping that the scum he or she throws back at you doesn’t stick.

As in many democracies around the world, at elections time, many politicians fail to realize that what they are contesting is in fact the privilege to serve the people of their country, a privilege afforded them by the electors. The ballot box is seen more as a gateway to power and riches than what it really is, a receptacle for the mass investment of trust and responsibility.

While anyone would agree that you can’t separate politics from the people practicing it, what the people in politics are supposed to be representative of are the issues facing their constituencies.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Jagdeo agrees to be on PPP/C List of Candidates Man, 21, remanded for dismembered body April 10–16, 2015

- at insistence of Party and supporters

Dr Bharrat Jagdeo during his last public appearance, which was the PPP/C’s Kitty Rally “I WILL be part of the race. I am supporting the People’s Progressive Party. I will put every bit of energy and strength that I have in my body to make sure that (Donald) Ramotar remains the President of our country, and Elisabeth Harper becomes the Prime Minister.” This was the contention of former President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, at his last public appearance, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Kitty Rally. And he made good on his promise by acceding to requests of his Party and supporters to be on the PPP/C’s list of candidates, which was submitted to Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Mr Keith Lowenfield yesterday.

He however insists that he is not in favour of a return to the National Assembly.

“I maintain my position that I will not go into Parliament. I did not want to go on the list, but the Party and many of our supporters encouraged me to have my name on the list, because the thinking was that me not being on the list sent a signal that I was in some way distancing myself from the Party. I thought that this was important so I acceded

to their request,” he told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday in an interview.

Prior to agreeing to the insistence of his Party and PPP/C supporters, the former president had indicated that his name will not be on the list of candidates.

“I will not be on the list… I have no intention of going into Parliament,” he had said, adding that he had not been included on the 2011 list. “It was not my original decision to be on the list of candidates, but Party and membership convinced me to be part of the list of candidates,” Dr Jagdeo said.

Speculations have been rife regarding the future role Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo in managing the affairs of this nation, but his position remains an emphatic ‘no’ when it comes to resumption of public office in a political capacity. Incumbent President Donald Ramotar recently announced that his predecessor, a former Finance Minister, had been appointed Chairman of the impending National Economic Council; and Dr. Jagdeo made it clear yesterday that he would serve in that capacity because he believes he has “some skills” he could leverage to support the new Government.

Dr Jagdeo yesterday made it clear that his position on holding a constitutional office has not changed.

“I remain fully engaged in the struggle of the PPP and I will support the party,” Dr Jagdeo emphasized. (Vanessa Narine)

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fter one week in police custody, 21-year-old Imran Ramsaywack made his first court appearance yesterday, to answer a charge of murder resulting from the brutal death of 45-year-old Samantha Benjamin.

Imran Ramsaywack being escorted after his court appearance yesterday.

Ramsaywack, who was unrepresented by an attorney, appeared before Magistrate Zamena Ali-Seepaul at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and was promptly remanded to prison.

Smiling throughout the brief hearing, the accused appeared relieved to be let out from the cold concrete of the Cove and John lock-ups, where two other suspects in the woman’s murder remain.

Samantha Benjamin was killed in a house at Middle Walk, Buxton, on March 25, last, and her body was dismembered and subsequently dumped into the Atlantic Ocean.

It was discovered the following morning, sparking outrage in the village which had not seen such brutality since the days of the crime wave a decade ago.

Ramsaywack, who hails from Adelphi Village, Canje, Berbice, was detained on March 31, after relatives of the dead woman began making inquiries into her disappearance.

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Two other accomplices, Ritchie Roseman and Zachariah Alexander were arrested over the Easter weekend, while a fourth man who was also implicated, was arrested yesterday.

Relatives of the dead woman had waited patiently at the Cove and John police station compound throughout the morning and a part of the afternoon for the men to be marched before the court. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions took time to carefully peruse the file before advising that the suspect be charged, although everyone was expecting three persons to be charged.

By then, the Magistrate at Cove and John had left the bench, so there was a mad rush to catch the sitting Magistrate at Sparendaam.

In the Sparendaam magistrate’s court, Ramsaywack was not required to plead and the prosecutor Inspector Hattie Anthony, requested that he be remanded.

Before he was taken away, Ramsaywack begged the Magistrate to allow him to spend his remand time at the New Amsterdam Prison, a request that was promptly denied.

I am not in a position to make that decision,” the Magistrate told Ramsaywack.

She then transferred the matter to the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court for May 4.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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Urling, Clive Jagan among new candidates but PPP/C banks on family ties

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longside the children of party stalwarts, businessman Clinton Urling, dental surgeon Dr Clive Jagan, and the Chief Executive Officer of GuySuCo Rajendra Singh are among the new additions on the PPP/C lists of candidates for the upcoming general elections.

And despite saying that he wouldn’t be a candidate, former president Bharrat Jagdeo has also been included among the 93 names on the National Top-Up list as is outgoing Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. Jagdeo, at a press briefing at Freedom House, on March 28, had said, “… I will not be on the ticket. I will not be on the list because I am not interested in going into parliament.”

The former president has reiterated numerous times since reappearing on the public stage that he was not interested in any constitutional posts and was satisfied that the incumbent could win the elections with its current list.

Also on the list are former AFC executive Sixtus Edwards and former APNU MP Africo Selman, who have recently voiced support for the incumbent, while notably absent are two current ministers of government: Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy and Human Services Minister Jennifer Webster. (Ramsammy recently underwent additional treat-

ment for a heart condition in the United States and has been recovering.

Luncheon had previously stated that Ramsammy was unlikely to continue in his capacity, although the minister subsequently stated that he was still prepared to serve.)

Additionally, Labour Minister Nanda Gopaul and Housing Minister Irfaan Ali are only listed on the geographical list for regions 2 and 3, respectively.

Both of those regions have historically been PPP/C strongholds at elections.

Urling, who had telegraphed his entry into active politics after resigning from the nonpartisan NGO he founded, Blue CAPS, had said he had been approached by the two major political forces and was weighing the pros and cons.

Another businessman, Peter Ramsaroop, who endorsed the PPP/C at the last elections after previous associations with both the People’s National Congress Reform and the Alliance For Change, has also been fielded as a candidate this time around.

In addition to past second generation entries, such as Shyam Nokta, the PPP/C’s National Top-Up list includes Alexei Ramotar, son of President Donald Ramotar; Tsitsi Thank Mya-Mia Luncheon, who is the daughter of Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon;

Rima Rohee, who is daughter of the party’s General Secretary Clement Rohee; Colleen Teixeira-Khan, the daughter of Presidential Advisor and the government’s Chief Whip Gail Teixeira; Rabindranauth Chandarpal, the son of late party stalwart Navin Chandarpal and long serving member Indra Chandarpal; and Charles Ramson Jnr, son of the former Attorney General.

GuySuCo’s Singh, who used to be the Chairman of the Board of Directors, was made CEO of the struggling corporation by President Ramotar last year. However, mismanagement criticisms still persist at the corporation.

The other head of a state-owned corporation who has endorsed the PPP/C by appearing is Badrie Persaud, the Managing Director of GuyOil. The head of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) Mahender Sharma, who is son of former Justice For All Party leader CN Sharma, is another new addition to the PPP/C list.

Speaking to reporters just before he presented the lists, President Ramotar said the PPP/C would be intensifying its campaign, which he was adamant would be a positive one aimed at regaining a majority in the National Assembly.

“I feel pretty good today. Now that

nomination day is here, I feel everything is going to be more open to the Guyanese people. They would have a chance to examine our list of candidates. They would have a chance very soon [to see] our manifesto,” he told reporters.

He also said he is confident that his party has the best manifesto and the best lists.

Ramotar further claimed that the PPP/C has been making a great effort to create the social and physical infrastructure to take Guyana to “higher places.” Despite the fact that his government has been “frustrated in these last three years,” he said, in an obvious reference to it not having the majority in the National Assembly, the country’s economy is still the fastest growing in the Caribbean.

Asked what he would want to say to a still undecided voter, Ramotar said they should read the excerpt of the party’s manifesto and see that they are not promising the “pie in the sky, but our promises are realistic, our programme is realistic, we are identifying sources of financing and therefore I think the country will have a great future with the PPP/Civic in power.”

After presenting the lists, the party released a statement calling its candidates representative of “people from different parts of Guyana, different

professions and occupations, women and gender, youth and experience, ethnicity and religion.”

“We are encouraged that so many people came forward to be a part of the Lists of the PPP/C. While not everyone could have had their names placed on the Lists, many more will be playing leading roles in other ways as the PPP/C enters this election with great confidence of returning to office. At the same time, we extend congratulations to all citizens who have come forward and made themselves available as candidates,” it added.

PPP/C supporters gathered in front of Freedom House—where buses lined the street after bringing supporters for the walk to City Hall—and commenced the walk down Robb Street, turning on to Camp Street and making their way to City Hall.

Ramotar, flanked by current government ministers including Hinds and Prime Ministerial Candid-ate Elisabeth Harper, led the procession. As the crowd made their way to City Hall, Ramotar, Harper, Hinds and others sang and danced along the way.

The crowd then waited patiently for Ramotar and Deputy List Representative Ganga Persaud to hand over the list to Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield for verification at City Hall.

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12

April 10–16, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015 13 Caribbean Star Newspaper Thursday, August 29,July 201 EqualityNews.ca Caribbean Newspaper President mingles withStar thousands on Easter Monday - touched by unity displayed by Guyanese Poli

Wanted Trinidad polic PITBULL KILLS GRANNY

Bloody attack oncommits 84-year-old suicide woman caus afte at Maraval home on ‘Wall of S placed

had gathered at every location he visited, tion, Guyana has achieved a lot, and it noting that this year’s celebration was in- would be beneficial to all Guyanese for Guyana to keep soaring to higher heights deed special.

Given the fact it is on the eve of Na- with the aim of providing a better quality tional and Regional elections, President of life for citizens. (GINA) Ramotar said in keeping with the season, President Donald Ramotar taking time all Guyanese should look forward to a to for atophotograph a family Ramlogan said there was incident with occurred.

An 84-year-old great edgeable when out it came bright future.

ORT-OF-SPAIN, July 9, 2014, CM the Number Easter an Wednesday undertaking within grandmother was yesterday the training ofat dogs and 63 Beach annual Trinidad, He added that under his administrakite flying A former head o Dr event Azizul Rahaman of the Parliament that he mauled to death by a family disagreed withMonday the deci-

President Donald Ramotar, and Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority Indranauth Haralsingh presenting a woman with a prize for winning in the Tourism Ministry’s Kite flying competition

pitbull.

Lillian Bunsee had never ventured close to the dogs as she had been attacked in the past, but yesterday morning one of the dogs escaped from its kennel and again attacked her, this time killing her.

Neighbours said the dog was one of approximately ten which were bred and being given aggression HOUSANDS of Guyanese stretch- training in preparation for ing from Number 63 Village, Coren- sale by two of the woman’s tyne, Region 6, to Meten-Meer- relatives.

of lo

P

mittedJones suicide hours after a photo of his appeared on a defunct state-ow Animal Clinic exam- would accommodate cerana Airwaysho C ined the dog and confirmed tain amendments based has blamed g it was one of the danger- on suggestions from Indeofficials forlic th ous dogs referred to in the pendent Senators and also aviation woes “Aggression training within Dog Control Bill which was from members of the Opag sion of the dog’s owner to carry out the training at the house. your own environment and training of dogs within your own household where you have ageable people or family members in your house

passed in Parliament last month but is yet to be proclaimed, police said.

Rahaman removed some of the animals and locked

T

Zorg on the West Coast of Demerara, Region 3, were given the opportunity to interact with President Donald Ramotar yesterday, as he visited several hubs across the country which are used to facilitate the symbolic kite flying.As part of his Easter Monday activities, the President started at the Number 63 Beach where he met with families who had gathered at the popular site to be a part of the celebration.

While mingling and catching up on the excitement at the beach, the President also took time out to take photographs with eager families.

President Ramotar also assisted in giving out prizes for the Ministry of Tourism’s Kite flying competition.

The Head of State then made his way to the Lusignan Golf Course on the East Coast of Demerara, where he met with persons there who were also a part of the kite flying exercise.

After his brief stop at that location, the President made his way to the Joe Vieira Park on the West Bank of Demerara, where again he met and interacted with patrons at that location.

Persons who were gathered there were elated to see the President, as many of them opted to have their photographs taken with the Head of State.

Shortly after that stop, the President then made his way to Meten-Meer-Zorg on the West Coast of Demerara, where he continued his interactive session with happy kite flyers.

Meanwhile in summing up his Easter Day activities, the President said he relished the opportunity to have rubbed shoulders with so many Guyanese of all walks of life in one day.

Speaking from what he experienced at every visit, the Head of State said he got a firsthand look at why the United Nations had stated that Guyanese are some of the happiest people.

President Ramotar said he was touched by the unity shown by the thousands who

Never once did the residents hear Bunsee scream for help but only noticed she was being attacked as they walked along the roadway close to her home on La Seiva Road, Maraval.

Police said it was shortly after 9 a.m. that the residents saw the woman on the ground with the dog tearing away at her body. They tried throwing boulders at the animal in an attempt to stop it but their efforts were unsuccessful, said officers.

Investigators said several police officers who were on patrol nearby went to the scene after receiving a report and was only able to have the dog stop biting the woman after opening fire on the animal, shooting it six times.

Residents in the area said the officers had no other option but to kill the dog.

The other dogs were all locked away in their kennels, they said.

“After the first two shots the dog was still biting the woman, like the shots did nothing to it. The police had to shoot it four more times before it stopped,” said one man.

CPR

Training

The resident, who asked that his name not be published, said regardless of the type, he was always opposed to people giving aggression training to dogs within their own household which is shared with other family members.

He said he was also knowl-

position.

The Independent Senators had already forwarded their suggestions to him, but he was still awaiting the Opposition’s before the Act is proclaimed by President Anthony Carmona.

“This bill is clearly needed.

I would like those persons who argue that there should be no legislation to control these dangerous dogs, I would like them to pay a visit to the relatives of victims to explain their position and to offer some condolence. I am calling upon them to go pay them a visit and to offer them some compensation,” said Ramlogan.

country.

Co Former GAC wh Manager, Fazal the adamant that spite rather tha vic or operational a q forced the closure ofHis the airlinevisi back in the hos late nineties, and it is one of the ma-The jor reasonsme G u y a n e s egra are payingMa e x o r b i t a ntpro prices tosid travel upous North.

623 The formerbey aviation ofinfo ficial is convinced thatlice Un Guyana’s curren ed t affairs is one of have been avo and the continuanc “prosperous an oping” state-ow The rier being pres oth prized for itsnox fu and importance han nese travelers. a b “They didn’tTrik

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Section 19 of the Dog Control Act: FAMILY PHOTO: 84-year-old Lillian Bunsee who was mauled to death by a pitbull yesterday in her own home. is a no no. Aggression is not the type of training to do within that environment.

High potency dog food and aggression training in the home environment is creating a time bomb and it is just a matter of time before tragedy strikes,” he said.

them away at the clinic yesterday evening. He told the Express the dogs were being temporarily kept at the animal hospital until the other owner makes a decision “on what he is going to do with them”.

Detectives from the Port of Spain Criminal Investigations Department (CID) led by ASP Ajith Persad went to the scene and detained the man who owned the dog.

“It was not for any legal reason or anything. Relatives and so on would be going to the house to give their condolences and what have you, so we are just keeping the dogs for a little while,” he said.

Up to yesterday evening he was in custody at the CID office along St Vincent Street, Port of Spain. Officers said they would be consulting with Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard SC to determine what charges could be laid against the man.

The other owner was not arrested as he did not live on the premises where the

The other owner said residents no longer wanted the dogs in the area, so he may have to “put them to sleep”.

Contacted via phone yesterday, Attorney General Anand Ramlogan said the Dog Control Bill was passed on the last day of the parliamentary session in order to prevent it from being “lapsed”.

With the passing of the bill,

19. (1) Where a class A dog injures a person, without reasonable cause whether in a public place or on private premises, the owner or keeper of the dog commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $100,000 and to imprisonment for five years.

(2) Where a class A dog kills a person or causes the death of a person, without reasonable cause, the owner or keeper of the dog commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $200,000 and to imprisonment for ten years.

89-44 162ND STREET JAMAICA NY 11432 SIDE OF APPLEBEE`S/VERIZON ON 162ND STREET CLASS A dogs are identified in the Bill as: 1. Pitbull Terrier or any dog bred from the Pitbull Terrier.

2. Fila Brasileiro or any dog bred from the Fila Brasileiro.

3. Japanese Tosa or any dog bred from the Japanese Tosa.

were making because theyMa d at derstand aviati told KaieteurinN were totallyara clu had they know ed mistake, they w never done He it, time they realiz TT already too late der in a recent inter Queenstownthe res oug Khan believes t Pat “pushed aside” of the GACwh fo ing his reservat said one political cub app According to in realized thatapp th forward-thinkin agement woul “Th the GAC and fore gave theant th dri some eight mon sulp consider their removing him.

14

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

ISLAM Peace / submission to the will of our creator.

Connect with your creator

A

bdullah bin Umar (Radhiyallaho anho) narrates that he heard the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) saying: “Islam is founded on five pillars: bearing witness that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) is His servant and apostle; establishment of salaat; paying of Zakaat; performance of Hajj; and fasting in Ramadhaan.”

The Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) has compared Islam to a canopy resting on five supports. The Kali-mah is the central support and the other four pillars of Islam are, so to say, the remaining four supports, one at each corner of the canopy. Without the central support, the canopy cannot possibly stand, and if any one of the corner supports is missing a collapse will result in the defective corner. Now, let us judge for ourselves how far we have kept up the canopy of Islam.

Is there really any pillar that is being held in its proper place?

The five pillars of Islam mentioned in this Hadith signify the most essential duties of a Muslim. Although a Muslim cannot do without any one of them, yet Salaat in Islam occupies a position next only to Imaan. Abdullah bin Mas’ood (Radhiyallaho anho) says: “Once, I inquired of the Holy Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam), which act (of man) was the dearest to Allah. The Prophet replied, ‘Salaat’. I then inquired which act came next (in order of merit) and the Prophet replied, ‘Kindness to parents’. I again asked what was next and he answered ‘Striving for Islaam’.”

Mulla Ali Qari (Rahmatullah alaih) has quoted this Hadith in support of the belief that Salaat is the most important religious duty after Imaan. This is further corroborated by a hadith, in which the Holy Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) is reported to have said: “Salaat is the best of all that has been ordained by Allah.”

Abu Zar (Radhiyallaho anho) narrates that once the Holy Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) came out of his house.

It was autumn and the leaves were falling off the trees. He caught hold of a branch of a tree and its leaves began to drop in large number.

At this he remarked, ‘0, Abu Zar! (Radhiyallaho anho) when a Muslim offers his Salaat to please Allah, his sins are shed away from him just as these leaves are falling off this tree.”

In autumn, usually, the leaves of the trees fall in large numbers, so much so that on some trees not a single leaf is left behind. The same is the effect of Salaat performed with sincerity and devotion.

All the sins of the person offering Salaat are wiped off.

It should, however, be remembered that according to the verdict of the theologians, it is only the saghaa’ir (minor sins) that are forgiven by the performance of Salaat and other services.

The kabaa’ir (major sins) are not pardoned without repentance. We should, therefore, in addition to saying salaat, be particular about doing taubah (repentance) and istighfaar (seeking forgiveness). Allah may, however, pardon, by His bountiful Grace, even the kabaa’ir of any person because of his salaat.

Abu Uthman (Radhiyallaho anho) says: “I was once sitting under a tree with Salmaan (Radhiyallaho anho). He caught hold of a dry branch of the tree and shook it till all its leaves fell off. He then said to me, “0, Abu Uthman! (Radhiyallaho anho) Will you not ask me why I am doing this?” “Do tell me,” I entreated. He said, “The Apostle of Allah had done exactly like this before me, while I was with him under a tree.

He caught a dry branch of it and shook it, till all its leaves fell off”. At this he said: 0, Salmaan! (Radhiyallaho anho) will you not ask me why I am doing this?’ I replied: ‘Do tell me why you are doing this?’ He remarked: “Verily when a Muslim takes wudhu properly and then observes his Salaat five times a day, his sins fall off just as these leaves have fallen off. He then recited the following verse of the Holy Qur’an: “Establish Salaat at the two ends of the day, and at the approaches of the night.

Verily, good deeds annul ill deeds. This is a reminder for the mindful. (XI: 114)” The behaviour of Salmaan (Radhiyallaho anho) in the above Hadith displays the profound love which the Sahaabah had for the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam). They would often cherish the sweet memories of the time when the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) was living among them. They would, while quoting him, enact exactly what they had seen him doing at a particular moment.

It is really very difficult to cover all the traditions of the Holy Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam), which deal with the importance of Salaat and which declare forgiveness for those who guard it. As had

already been said before, the theologians restrict this declaration of forgiveness to saghaa’ir (minor sins) only, but in the text of the Hadith there is no such restriction.

There are two reasons for this. Firstly, it does not really become a Muslim to commit any of the kabaa’ir (major sins).

If perchance any such sins are committed by him, he cannot rest in peace (due to inherent fear of Allah in him) until he washes them with his tears of repentance in crying before Allah. Secondly, the person who performs his Salaat with sincerity and thoroughness is very likely to do istighfaar quite a number of times daily.

Look for instance at the closing prayer of Salaat itself, viz: “0, My Lord! I have wronged my soul a great wrong, and none forgives sins except you alone. Then forgive me and have mercy on me. Verily, you are the Forgiving, the Merciful.

In the above Hadith, mention is made of wudhu to be done properly. We should, therefore, be sure of the regulations about wudhu and try to observe all of these. For example, take the case of miswaak. It is sunnat of wudhu, but is very often neglected. It is said in a Hadith that the Salaat offered after doing miswaak (Brushing the teeth) is seventy times superior to the Salaat without miswaak. In another Hadith, use of miswaak has been enjoined very strongly, and the following benefits are attributed to it:— “It cleanses and sweetens the mouth and checks its bad smell.”

“It is a cause of Allah’s pleasure and a blow to the Devil.”

“Allah and his angels love the person doing miswaak.” “It strengthens the gums and improves eye-sight.”

“It is a purge against bile and phlegm.”

To crown all, “It is a Sunnah i.e. the practice of our beloved Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam).”

As many as seventy virtues of the miswaak (Brushing the teeth) have been enumerated by the theologians. It is said that a person in the habit of miswaak dies with the Kalimah on his lips. The rewards of taking wudhu properly are very many.

It is mentioned in Ahadith that the parts of body washed in wudhu shall glitter on the Day of Judgment and, by this (distinction), the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) will at once recognize his followers.

Jaabir (Radhiyallaho anho) narrates that he heard the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) saying:

“The likeness of five time’s daily Salaat is as the likeness of a deep brook running in front of the door of a person who bathes therein five times a day.”

Running water is generally free from dirt, and the deeper it runs the cleaner and purer it is. A bath in such water surely removes dirt from the body and makes it clean. Salaat offered with due regard for its essentials likewise cleanses the soul of all sins. There are several Ahadith of the same meaning, though with slight variations in expression, narrated by different companions of the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam).

Abu Sa’eed Khudri (Radhiyallaho anho] narrates that he heard the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) saying: ‘Each of the five Salaat expiates the sins committed since the Salaat preceding it. To explain, let us take the case of a person working in a factory. His job is such that his body gets covered with dust. But there are five streams of running water in between the factory and his house and, on his return from the job, he takes a bath in each stream. The effect of five time’s daily Salaat is quite similar. Any sins of omission and commission between two Salaat are forgiven on account of ‘Istighfaar (seeking forgiveness) and Taubah (Repentance) in each Salaat.’

The Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) through such parables, aims at impressing that salaah has the wonderful power of removing the sins. If we fail to avail of Allah’s mercy, surely we ourselves are the losers.

To err is human. We are likely to commit innumerable acts of displeasing Allah and deserve thereby. His wrath and punishment, but look how relenting our dear Allah is! He has most graciously shown us the way to earn His mercy and forgiveness. It is a great pity if we do not avail of this great favor. Our Allah is always eager to show us His mercy on very small grounds. It is said in a Hadith, that if a person goes to bed with the intention of getting up for Ta-hajjud and perchance does not wake up, he receives the full reward for Tahajjud, although he has been enjoying his sleep at the time of Tahajjud. How boundless is the grace of Allah and what a tremendous loss and deprivation if we do not receive blessings from such a Giver.

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

April 10–16, 2015 Caribbean Star Newspaper Amery supporters storm PNM meeting: 'We are hurting'

C

laiming there was “dictatorship” in the Diego Martin Central constituency executive, scores of angry People’s National Movement (PNM) members forced a scheduled meeting of the executive to be shifted to a different venue yesterday.

The meeting had been called to weigh fresh candidate options to go before the PNM screening committee in the wake of the rejection last week of incumbent MP Amery Browne.

But the constituents, reportedly upset at Browne’s general election snub by the Di-

ego Martin executive, reportedly disrupted the meeting at the Diamond Vale Community Centre, forcing the executive to move to a new venue due to the uncomfortable situation in which they were put.

Sources told the T&T Guardian that Browne, who got no votes from the Diego Martin executive during the screening process, was neither aware of the meeting nor was he invited to it.

But a vocal group of supporters said they got word of the meeting via a text message and felt it was necessary to attend.

15

The mainly female group which assembled outside the community centre said they were initially told it was a constituency meeting and felt they should attend to voice their anger over Browne’s rejection but they said when they entered the facility they were told that it was not a constituency meeting but a meeting of the executive.

Not wanting any confrontation or bacchanal, Irene Hinds, vice chair of the constituency and PNM operations officer, and others left for the nearby office of Diamond Vale councillor Gail La Touche, where they conducted the meeting.

Constituency member Emerita Sambrano said they were supporting Browne because he remained a “very hard working MP.” Another party supporter shouted: “We are hurting.”

Later the group shouted: “Dictators!”

Another upset member, Joy Belfon, said it was “unfair” for the executive to control the process in the manner it did. She said the constituency was not only two or three people, adding the “dictatorship” must not be allowed to continue.

“The dictatorship has to stop,” she demanded as others all applauded.

She insisted: “What goes around will come back around 500 million times with a different force.”

She stressed there was “dictatorship in the constituency.”

“Why must one set of people dictate who represents us in Diego Martin Central?” another supporter shouted.

The executive meeting ended shortly before 8 pm.

Chairman of the constituency Osborne Charles offered “no comment” as he departed. ut Hinds said: “We had an executive meeting to decide where we go from here.”

She said what was discussed at the meeting was private and the chairmen and secretaries of all party groups in the Diego Martin constituency would be told of their decision tomorrow.

The constituency was given until Monday to find a new candidate.

No comment Contacted last night, Browne declined comment.

However, Browne said last week that although he respected the decision of the screening committee he intended to run again and hoped “that ultimately the best decision will be made.”

“My life has been one of service to the less-fortunate since long before I entered politics and my commitment and sense of duty to my constituents and to the people of Trinidad and Tobago remain as strong and binding today as ever before,” he said.

He did say, however, that he was still very committed to the party.

“Diego Martin Central remains critical to the fortunes of the People’s National Movement in this coming election and I am committed to playing a role in ensuring our success,” he added.

Also contacted last night, PNM general secretary Ashton Ford said the executive meeting was called because the members had a limited time to do its work. It was given until Monday to find a new candidate to be screened for the seat, he added.

16

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

Small parties ready for their big rivals - Theocracy Party leader ‘rolling-up’ his sleeves to deal with APNU-AFC Alliance

N

OT daunted by the great fanfare staged by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), the leaders of several small parties strode into historic City Hall to fancy their chances at the May 11 polls.After leaving the horse shoe table inside the City Chambers, the majority of them spoke glowingly about their chances of doing well at the elections, going alone.

But at last minute, the Godism Party, also known as the Small Man’s Liberation Party and the Organisation For the Victory of the People Party, threw their

support behind the APNU/AFC Alliance.

Dressed in a gray suit with a flat white cap, Noah Yahshuarun, who looks more like a man from the Middle East, told the Guyana Chronicle that the Godism party has decided not to contest the election and intends to join the Alliance.

According to him, the party has since sent a letter to the Alliance, expressing a desire to join it, and is awaiting a positive response.

He also indicated that Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has been notified.

Yahshuarun said his Godism party will be pushing the Alliance and the Govern-

ment to become more “Godly” and pass laws in Parliament that are reflective of the holy scriptures.

He said there is need for love to end the fighting in Parliament and out of Parliament, ensure national unity, and solve the many social issues in the country.

The Godism leader, whose party symbol is the Holy Tabernacle, also said there is need for greater accountability from holders of public offices.

Leader of the Organisation For the Victory of the People Party Gerald Pereira said his part will only be contesting Region 4, but will be giving its support to the Alliance.

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On a ballot paper, a voter casts a regional and national vote.

Pereira explained that his supporters will be putting an ‘X’ next to the Organisation For the Victory of the People Party for a regional vote, and the other ‘X’ for the Alliance for the national vote.

He said his party has been doing some groundwork, and based on feedback, it has made a decision to support the Alliance.

Pereira said if successful in obtaining a seat in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), his party will put “a whole lot of pressure” on Central Government to speed up infrastructural projects.

The pressure, he said, will start in the boardroom and could end up in the streets, in the form of street protests.

LONE DEMONSTRATOR Before City Hall opened its doors for the candidates of the various political parties to present their documents to GECOM to be checked, and given the goahead to contest the May 11 elections, there was some action on Regent Street and Avenue of the Republic by a lone demonstrator.

Bedecked in a colourful outfit, the demonstrator beat his chest and shouted, “The country is we own”, “All of you are my children”, “Go to work and work hard”.

He then tried to remove posters of President Donald Ramotar and Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper on the palls at the Recent Street entrance of City Hall.

He shouted, and even rolled on the road, before moving close to a Police barricade, and jammed knuckles with an officer, much to the amusement of bystanders.

Leader of The United Force (TUF), Marissa Nadir, was the first of the political parties to present documents to GECOM, and she did so without any hiccups.

She said the rejuvenated TUF boasts of members of a wide cross-section of society.

These, she said, includes lawyers, doctors, businessmen, carpenters and housewives, but not househusbands.

According to Nadir, the TUF has been receiving overwhelming support from the hinterland regions, its traditional base, saying that the “party is here, and here to stay”.

“You can expect great things from the TUF, not only in this election but in the elections to come. We are young people; we have the drive; and we know what the electorate wants. We are fighting for job security, good security and efficient government services,” she said.

ROLLING-UP OF SLEEVES Healing the Nation Theocracy Party (HNTP) Leader Alfred Parks had some glitches in his documents, but said he will get it rectified because he intends to ‘rollup his sleeves’ and begin campaigning at ‘full- throttle’.

Parks was short on his promise to deliver a 300-strong contingent of ‘bald

Caribbean Star Newspaper

GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield makes a point to United Republican Party Leader Vishnu Bandhu heads’, those with hair and dread-locks Rastas yesterday.

But nevertheless, he described the Nomination Day as a “bright” and “beautiful day”, noting that he is ready to unleash the “truth”.

This is what the Theocracy Party is all about, he said, as he hopes to nibble away at the APNU+AFC support base in Region 4, after the Alliance failed to accept them into their fold.

The HNTP is contesting only in Region 4, where it is hoping a win at least a seat, to better champion its dream to legalise marijuana in Guyana.

United Republican Party (URP) Leader Vishnu Bandhu, whose party’s symbol is a cow’s head, also had some issues with his documents. He promised to get it fixed,

as he is ready to go to the May 11 polls.

Bandhu said he will be contesting all the regions, except Region 2, where he said the PPP/C supporters were not too accepting of him.

The URP Leader, who was accompanied by a dozen supporters into City Hall, said his party knows what they are about, who they are, and what they want.

GOOD VALUES He said the URP is focused on building a stronger and more supportive education system, providing more support for farmers and instilling good moral values in the citizenry.

Dressed in a gray suit, Bandhu said his chances of doing well at the elections are good, because the people have lost interest in the PPP/C, AFC and the APNU.

April 10–16, 2015

TUF Leader Marissa Nadir handing over her documents to GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield National Independence Party Leader Sappier Hussain, who has been in the habit of resurfacing close to elections, took a hard swipe at Government’s handling of crime in the country.

He said crime-fighting in Guyana is woefully poor, and should he obtained two seats in Parliament, he will put a helicopter each in Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice to enable faster response to crime and emergency.

But aside from this, Hussain, who is an Attorney-at-Law, said he will institute land reforms, revamp the cattle industry and bring the Amaila Falls Project on stream.

At close to 18:00 hours, the closing time for Nomination Day, leader of the Independent Party Mark Benschop

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

emerged, presenting his requisite papers to GECOM. He said the Independence Party is about change, and it will focus on delivering change. Benschop said as a servant of the people, he wants a few seats in Parliament, and when he gets them, he will move to ban duty-free concession for parliamentarians.

This move, he said, will save the Government some $400 million, which he said can be spent on more important things that will benefit the people.

The small parties contesting the May 11 elections are being seen by sections of the electorate as termites, rearing and ready to eat away at the support base of the big parties.

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April 10–16, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

Voice Of The Youth M

y name is Shaw Ryan Khan. I am the son of Shaw M. Khan and Camille Zeena Khan and I am the grandson of Haji Ali Akbar Khan and Azeezan Khan from Canegrove, Guyana ,as well as Harry Singh and Lillian Ganpati Singh from Industry, Guyana. My respect to my parents and my grandparents always.

Within the week, a fan of mine from the very beginning called me and asked me something that I was not prepared for anyone to ask of me! She told me that she is a fan of my writing, she loves my articles, she looks forward to each and every article I write, and she says she is my number one fan. But I’m not too sure about that last part. More specifically, I’m not too sure if my mom and dad will agree with that last part, considering they are both fighting to be my number one fan! Anyway, this person eventually asked me this question; “why do you write?”

When she asked me that question, she made me realize that I did not really know why AT THAT MOMENT. I have been writing what my mind tells me to write and until that moment, until that 15 minute phone call, I never knew why I wrote. I promised her, and I do not make promises I don’t keep, that I would “look within me” to find that answer.

I remember the first time I wrote a speech and spoke that same speech in front of a crowd. It was about 10 or so years ago, if my memory serves me right.

One of Imams for a masjid requested I prepare a speech about anything I wanted. It was his attempt to strengthen the youths influence on society. When I heard this, I was completely scared but I knew that it was an experience I could not refuse. For the next few days, I prepared to deliver a speech on faith and its impact on our lives (yes, I was 9 years old researching about faith. It wasn’t my best and most well-written speech but It served its purpose!) After I wrote the speech, I spent the next few days practicing in front of my mirror. The day finally came and I thought I was prepared. My parents and I went to the masjid and instead of me sitting with my mom in the crowd while my father went to sit with the speakers on the “read-men table”, I joined him at the table. I was surprised, happy, and uncomfortable that I could not sit next to mom. The time came for my father to speak, which he did so comfortably and like it was instinctive. While he was speaking, an older gentleman told me “go home and play with your toys kid, no one wants to listen to some little child talk”.

I won’t lie, it discouraged me but It also made me want to show him what this little kid could do. As my turn came up, I walked to the mic and delivered my speech. At the end of my speech, the crowd started to clap. It was from that moment in time that I realized that talking and writing was instilled in me in such a way that I love doing it. I write not because I want to make money, and not because someone is forcing me to do so. I write because I love it.

I love to write so that people can read or listen and in turn, learn something about life from this young kid who is still learning about life himself!

With that being said, my topic this week will be about one simple yet so complex

topic, words.

“Who do you think you are?” My readers, you don’t know how many times someone has said that to me, questioning my reason for being the way I am. Some question my way of being in a negative way, claiming I’m doing things (in this case, writing) for some materialistic benefit.

While others question my way of being so that they can be able to understand who I am. This in turn, makes them realize that I am writing because I love to write and not because I want some monetary gain.

Who are you? From your soul comes the motivating desires and attitudes that are your core and your reason for being. The rest comes from your mind, which is your information bank. In your mind lies the ability to learn, to remember, and to acted based on what you know and, of course, on your creativity and imagination. Nearly everything we do, independent of our bodies, we do with our thoughts. Thoughts are silent and can only be communicated through words and actions. Though we rely on our senses for messages about the world around us, we also rely on words to describe the information we are getting from our senses. In the end, we have only words to express who we are to the world.

In this way, words become a key ingredient in shaping our lives and giving us hope and courage to continue.

Since words are used to communicate the sacred, the profane, and everything in between, they can be smooth, powerful allies, and they can be sharp swords. Let me give you an example: In the song, Main Jahaan Rahoon, Javed Akhtar is given the task to create a song with such emotion and feelings that when ANYONE hears it, no matter if you know what the translation is , you will feel the song in your heart. “Main jahaan rahoon main kahin bhi hoon,teri yaad saaath hai”; “Wherever I live, wherever I am, your memory is with me.”

Mayur Puri was given the same task of creating a song with such love and feeling.

Let me show you what he has succeeded in doing; “Chhoo liya tune lab se aankhon ko, Mannatein poori tumse hi, Tu mile jahaan, mera jahaan hai wahan, Raunakein saari tumse hi, Piya o re piya, piya re piya re piya. I encourage each and every one of my readers to listen to this song and the one mentioned above. Here is a glimpse of the translation; “you touched my eyes with your lips, all my wishes are fulfilled with you only. Where you meet me, my world is there only, all the radiance is from you only. Beloved, O my beloved, beloved o beloved o beloved...”

Loves songs were invented by marrying the magic of words to the magic of music.

What sentimental heart can resist an arrow of words and music from Cupid’s bow? Be honest viewers, when you listen to such love songs like the two I mentioned above, don’t you want to fall in love again? Haha.

We’ve all heard that the pen can be mightier than the sword. Words can also be dull and fall on deaf ears. Unless we use them carefully and communicate clearly, words are of little value. Many of our difficulties in human relations are caused by improper or inadequate communication.

When communication is unclear, we can fail to get our ideas across to other peo-

ple or we can fail to hear what others are saying to us. Usually, misunderstandings result.

In childhood, we learned “sticks and stones can break your bones, but words can never harm you.” I’m not sure they got that right. Bones and physical injuries can mend but the harm done by words can have a deep and lasting impact. Just ask an attorney about libel or defamation and the damage to a person’s reputation that can be done by words. In the digital, internet-connected world, images, too, can do a great deal of harm. When a Danish newspaper published an irreverent cartoon depicting the Prophet Mohammad as a terrorist, the Muslim world erupted in deadly and destructive riots. Is it necessary to draw such disrespectful images or use hateful language to underscore the freedom to express oneself?

When was the last time you got bent out of shape over words spoken carelessly to you? Angry words directed at you can hurt more and longer than a door slammed in your face. And have you ever been in a situation where you chose pointed words like an archer chooses arrows and sent them flying, knowing they would wound another person? It’s easy to do. Next time you are tempted to fling outrageous words at another human being, remember how it feels.

Then you will understand that our words can come back to haunt and hurt us, and often they do more damage to us personally than they do to anyone else. Thanks to our very gracious police commissioner, officers of the law are taking classes to show them the effects of the carelessness for another human being. Before these classes, people who were arrested would complain that the handcuffs are too tight and were hurting them. In turn, the cops would laugh and ignore it. It is not until this class that they realized their mistakes. The cops would experience the treatment of being handcuffed too tightly. They would yell and scream to loosen the cuffs but the teachers would ignore them. It is not until they felt the experience that they realized their mistake. My readers, let us not wait for us to experience what it feels like to be harmed with words. Rather, let us treat and talk to others like we wish to be treated and to be talked to.

Sugar dissolved in water cannot be retrieved, just as words, once spoken, cannot be taken back. Adding words of apology may ease the pain caused by regretted words, but they can’t erase it. Just as words spoken carelessly cause hurt, so do words that go unspoken. I have years of experience in saying the wrong things at the wrong time and not saying the right things at the right time. Having realized the importance of words in my life, I now make a conscious effort to be more open and sharing and to communicate accurately. I take the time to transmit my thoughts precisely. This adds value and meaning to my life and to the lives of others.

If you love someone, tell them and share the experience- whenever the thought crosses your mind.

While I choose words carefully, there are some words I choose to avoid, if possible. Among them are minus words like “if only, as in “if only I had,” or “but,” as in “but

I don’t know if I can.” “If only” are words of regret like “could have” and “should have.”

You didn’t, so move on. “But” is a word of contradiction and limitation, a deception and an excuse. Eliminating these words and concepts from your vocabulary will enable you to communicate more directly and truthfully.

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I never use the word “try”. I believe try is a non-word that prevents you from achieving your goal. There is no action in try so you never succeed. In the movie The Empire Strikes Back, Yoda says, “do, or do not. There is no try.” Truer words were never spoken. Remove try from your vocabulary today and see how much more you accomplish.

I also believe that the word “laughter” speaks volumes. Laughter is the natural expression of a happy state of mind. It’s a sure sign of a healthy disposition, and its good medicine, too. Seven days without a hearty laugh makes one weak. Be very careful about what words you use. Remember, we have only words to express who we are to the world.

Choose your words carefully. If they are the right words at the right time, use them. If upon inspection, they appear to be bruised, rotten, or otherwise spoiled, don’t use them at all.

Before I end my article, I just want to say this; may God continue to bless each and every one of you and I wish for you to achieve peace and serenity in your lives!

Lastly my readers, in your journey through life, I hope you heed my advice. I want nothing except peace and serenity. And remember this; “You can change your world by changing your words… Remember, death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

God bless you all and see you in two weeks!

(Like my articles? Want to give me feedback? Do you have a topic suggestion for my next article? Let me know! Add me via Facebook @ Facebook. com/ryankhan0721 or give me a call @ 646-269-8227 or 718-849-1006)

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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LESSONS FROM THE CROSS When Jesus hung on the cruel Roman Cross, He uttered seven “words” that reverberate through history to speak to Christians in our walk with Him. One wonders how He could submit to such humiliation and agony without resistance like all other crucifixion victims. Even on the Cross, in severe pain and agony, Jesus spoke words of love and hope before giving up the ghost.

“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34 Other victims would be swearing and cursing as strong, rugged soldiers pinned them down and fastened them to the cross with spikes. His body was already mutilated from the flogging. The first thing they heard was a word of forgiveness. Just recently, I heard the family of a shooting victim say they forgave the offender(s). It is not easy to forgive others when they hurt you or take something precious from you. Most of the time, offenses are unintentional, but sometimes they may be intended to cause pain. Without forgiveness, you can have your offender live in your mind and control your life? Forgiveness frees us from the control of the offender. Learn to forgive and let it go. Then, you can live out your dreams. We can forgive when we realize the magnitude of debt we were forgiven by God. “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43 Jesus could have been taken up with His own suffering. This turns our attention inwards and we do not see the suffering of people around us. Instead, Jesus reached out to the needs of his fellow sufferer who cried out to Him. Of the three crosses on Golgotha, one victim railed on Him to use miraculous power to take them down from the crosses. The other victim rebuked that first one saying they deserved their punishment, but recognized Jesus did nothing wrong.

He turned to Christ and begged Him to remember him in His kingdom. Jesus lovingly comforted him with these wonderful words, “Today shalt thou be with me in Paradise.” Let us not live in self-pity. We can reach out to someone in spite of our condition and bring God’s love and comfort to them.

“Woman, behold thy son!” John 19:26 “When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.”

John 19:26-27. Mary, overwhelmed by grief, must have wondered about her own future in a society where women were second class without a male covering. Jesus was mindful for her, even on the Cross. He committed her care into the hands of John. We must not feel our suffering exempts us from caring for our own. Honor and care for parents. Take your responsibility to care for your family.

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46 The pain was intense. He felt all alone. We know that kind of feeling.

It is okay to ask God what is going on. Mary questioned the angel Gabriel how she can have a child when she was not yet married. The old saint Job had many questions for God in his time of suffering. God understands

how we feel and He is patient with us.

His love remains the same. Let God work with you through your pain and you will see He is making something good out of you. Testing times should make us better not bitter. Someone said, “When the train goes through the dark tunnel, you don’t throw away the ticket and jump off the train. You sit still and trust the engineer.”

“I thirst.” John 19:28 “After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.” The Judean heat combined with the loss of blood intensified the agony he felt. In that moment, Jesus acknowledged what many today refuse to acknowledge. We are human.

God understands that. Confessing our needs can shake our pride, but humility is the only way to approach God for help. We can ask His forgiveness for our sins. We can tell Him our innermost feelings and find comfort and strength. When we make our needs known, people around us can give a helping hand. Maybe today it’s your turn to receive someone’s help; tomorrow you may be in a position to bless someone else.

“It is finished.” John 19:30 This does not say He knew it was time to breathe His last breath. It says the work of redemption was complete.

The price of man’s sins was fully paid

by His suffering. You can get the picture right if you know the Tabernacle had many furniture, such as altars and tables, but no chair. The Priest’s work was never finished. Jesus completed the work of Atonement once for all and sat down at the right hand of the Father. Nothing can be added to His complete work. We are not saved by what we do or give, but we are saved by grace through faith in Him. “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” Luke 23:46

It was not a prayer of defeat or resignation. His relationship with the Father was so intimate that He trusted Him with every outcome. Here, Jesus trusted the Father to safely receive His spirit. We must live in that kind of loving relationship with the Heavenly Father so that we can trust Him with our outcomes. We have health issues, financial difficulties, relationship conflicts, burdens on our hearts that no one else knows. You can trust God with all of it. Learn to surrender every heartache, every challenge and every situation to Him. Anything given to God will never have adverse results.

He is good and His mercy endures forever. He knows how to work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Would you surrender to Him? The life of our Savior, His death and Resurrection accomplished our redemption. At the same time, He left us important lessons to follow in our daily lives. As we walk in obedience, we will reflect His image of love to our world. We are to be an influence to the world for Him. Take your family to church this weekend.

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T

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

FIND HONG’s KILLER

he murder of Chinese businessman, Hi Hong Huang, on Tuesday in Curepe is generating widespread fear among the Chinese community in Trinidad and Tobago, and has also triggered a round of diplomatic talks scheduled for today between resident Chinese Ambassador Xingyan Huang, and Minister of National Security, Brigadier General Carl Alfonso.

Ambassador Xingyan is going into the discussions with the Minister further to his initial reaction yesterday to the murder: “Find the killer, and bring the killer to justice as soon as possible, for the murder of Hong Huang.”

Hong, 35, was fatally shot on Tuesday outside his businessplace, Happiness Supermarket, off the Southern Main Road, Curepe, as he was entering his premises from a panel van he had just parked with a large sum of money in

a box.

CCTV cameras showed Hong being wrestled violently to the ground by a man who approached him from the pavement and who was seeking to grab the box. As Hong and his attacker wrestled on the ground, another man approached and loud explosions were heard.

The two men were then seen escaping with the box containing an undisclosed sum of cash as Hong stumbled toward the building. He was assisted by an employee of the supermarket and taken to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC), Mt Hope where he succumbed to his injuries. An autopsy revealed yesterday that the businessman died as a result of a single bullet to the chest.

In a statement issued yesterday Ambassador Xingyan, disclosed he would meet with Alfonso today over the local crime situation.

Alfonso, who was at the sitting of the Parliament to discuss the Police Regulation Amendment Bill, confirmed he will meet today with the Chinese Ambassador to discuss this most recent murder of a Chinese national in Trinidad and Tobago.

“With me will be a member of the Police Service as well, to be able to give him any updates as to what is happening as far as investigations go,” Alfonso told Newsday.

Alfonso expressed regret at the recent killing, saying, “I have concerns, about the killing of anybody, including a Chinese national. I’ll speak with the Ambassador. I want to hear what he has to say, and how best we can deal with it. I’m just as saddened as the Ambassador is. I want to offer my condolences to the family on behalf of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.”

Ambassador Xingyan’s statement also noted the Embassy has the responsibility and obligation of ensuring the Chinese nationals’ legitimate rights and interests, including their

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safety, are being properly protected.

The statement revealed that since Tuesday’s murder of the Chinese businessman, the Embassy has been receiving calls from Chinese nationals living in TT about their concerns over crime in the country.

The statement read, “Around 2,000 Chinese nationals are living in TT. Since Tuesday, the Embassy has received phone calls from Chinese communities, Chinese companies and many local friends. They all said they were very frightened, saddened and concerned, and hoped that justice could be done as soon as possible.” The statement indicated that when the Ambassador heard the news of the murder, he was very shocked, and immediately visited the family of the victim.

He expressed his high concern to “pertinent authorities of TT”, requesting the TT Government to find and bring the killer to justice.

The Embassy noted the murder occurred in broad daylight which added heavy clouds about the current safety of all the other Chinese nationals.

It added that the safety of Chinese nationals has been under threat recently in some areas, where cases of stealing and robbery often occurred, and went on to warn Chinese nationals living in Trinidad and Tobago of “safety hazards.”

Hong was the fifth Chinese national to lose his life to crime in Trinidad and Tobago.

Last year, at a press conference Ambassador Xingyan mentioned that several Chinese nationals had been robbed in recent years, often at gunpoint, while four were murdered in 2012.

On January 14, 2012, 22-year-old Yu Quan Ue was stabbed to death at a restaurant in Chaguanas. On July 12 of the same year Wu Xiuhua 60, and her husband Jianhua Yang, 60 were shot in a restaurant in Cunupia. Xiuhua died on the scene while her husband, Yang, succumbed the following day to his injuries while at the EWMSC. Later that year in October, Chang Xiao Feng, 33, was shot dead in Barataria. No arrests have been made in any of these murders. Reactions by relatives outside the Forensic Science Centre, St James yesterday underscored the concern of the Chinese community over the rate of police detection, especially when it comes to murder cases.

“The entire Chinese community is very disturbed and taken aback by this latest incident,” said Abrahim Ali, former president of the San Juan Business Association. He added that they reflect on the past murders of Chinese nationals for which no one has been arrested.

He added, “They are hoping with the amount of information and evidence in this murder, that something happens,” said Ali, a friend of the deceased for ten years.

The proprietor of a chain of supermarkets, Hong had been a resident of Barataria years before he had opened his first supermarket. He was described as a humble, polite and easygoing person who assisted the less fortunate in his area on a daily basis.

Hong left behind a wife and three children.

According to Ali, the family is in shambles after learning of the man’s murder.

“His wife is totally distraught and very shaken-up” said Ali. Although there had been no arrests up to press time, police have retrieved the CCTV footage of the incident and, according to homicide officials, enquiries are being conducted.

In his television programme yesterday, Inspector Roger Alexander suggested to the two bandits that they turn themselves in since television cameras had exposed their faces to the elements.

“We are not begging,” Alexander said,“We are giving you an opportunity to come and come quick.”

He cautioned business persons about the steps they take to secure money.

“Now there were some mistakes made and we do not want the same to be done across the board,” Alexander continued. “You have large sums of money, yet you choose to move around with it, money in box here, money in box there and then you are carrying it in one location to count the money.”

Yesterday, the grocery where the murder occurred was opened for business. However, according to employees, there was a significant drop in the number of customers.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

In retirement, guarantees matter W

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.3

ith private pensions becoming more rare, guarantees in retirement 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.

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ment?” 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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1. StreetAuthority.com, “15 Reasons the U.S. Retirement Crisis Is Even Worse Than You Think”, Nov 2012 2. Towers Watson, 2012.

3. AARP.org, “Boomers Report No Savings At All”, Feb 2011 4. “What Makes a Successful Retire-

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Caribbean Star Newspaper 2015 poll a likely eight-party contest April 10–16, 2015

HE proverbial bell has been sounded for the homestretch leading up to the May 11 General and Regional Elections; and out of the 11 parties that initially expressed interest in contesting these elections, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has counted eight political contenders in the running.

By all accounts and historical underpinnings, the two major political contenders are the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the coalesced A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC).

The other parties submitting their National Top-up List, Geographical Constituencies List, and Regional Democratic Council Lists included: The United Force (TUF); the Healing The Nation Theocracy Party (HTNT); the United Republican Party (URP); the Independent Party (IP); the Organisation for the Victory of the People (OVP); and the National Independence Party (NIP).

The Guyana Small Man Party, Guyana National Congress and the Liberation Party did not make the 6:00pm deadline to enter a bid for the national leadership posts that are up for grabs.

Last time around, on October 27, 2011, some 32 parties had expressed their intention to make a bid, with only seven making their submissions to the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) Chief Elections Officer (CEO).

PPP/C, APNU, AFC, TUF, as well as the

East Berbice Development Association (EBDA), Fundamental Structure Group (FSG) and Horizon and Star were the parties that submitted their lists of candidates. The latter three have not been heard from since.

WINNING LIST During yesterday’s Nomination Day, TUF was the first party to make its presentation, then the atmosphere became filled with a tangible enthusiasm as the leadership and members of the PPP/C made their way up the refurbished stairs of City Hall, with hundreds of supporters who rallied around the party’s leadership lining Regent Street.

His Excellency President Donald Ramotar, incumbent President and current PPP/C Presidential Candidate, said in an

invited comment: “It is a winning list.”

He added, “Nominations Day is here… everything will be now much more open to the Guyanese, they will have a chance to examine our list of candidates…very important is that the public has these materials in front of them.

“We are confident that the PPP/C has the best manifesto and the best list.

Promises have been made out there all the time, but we have been making great efforts at creating the social and physical infrastructure to take our country to higher places.”

The President said the aim of the PPP/C is to win a majority in the National Assembly, as this would allow the Party to advance programmes, policies and legislation to improve the lives of all Guyanese.

“When I get the majority this time, we will grow…we will provide a much better quality of life for the Guyanese people.

We are not promising to buy the sky. Our promises are realistic…we’re identifying sources of finances; the country will have a great future with the PPP/C in government,” President Ramotar posited.

The PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate, Mrs Elisabeth Harper, echoed similar sentiments: “It is an inclusive list,” she told the Chronicle.

Having followed the PPP/C Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates and other party members from Freedom House, the enthused procession made its way back to the party’s headquarters for a rally.

Hundreds have been included on the PPP/C list of candidates in respect to its National Top-up List, Geographical Constituencies List, and Regional Democratic Council Lists, which included dozens of new faces.

APNU+AFC New faces were also noted in the large contingent from the APNU+AFC Alliance, which marched from the Square of the Revolution to City Hall.

Presidential Candidate for this (APNU+AFC) Alliance, Brigadier (rtd) David Granger, boasted confidently about supporters included on the APNU+AFC list of candidates. “We have committed ourselves to competence and balance…

We have a list that is going to move this country forward,” he stressed.

After that alliance had submitted its lists, the APNU+AFC procession moved onto Parade Ground for a Unity Rally, where Granger’s running mate, Moses

Nagamootoo, touted the success of the coalition.

He said the Nomination Day milestone is evidence of the fact that there will be ‘no divorce’ between APNU and AFC. The political alliance between the two parties was inked on February 14 and detailed in the historic Cummingsburg Accord. Going into the coalition negotiation with APNU, the AFC controlled 21 per cent of the combined Opposition seats in Parliament, but came out with a guarantee of 40 per cent of the Cabinet and at least 12 parliamentary seats, should they succeed at the May 11, 2015 General and Regional polls.

APNU held 79 per cent of the Opposition seats in the House going into the negotiation.

GECOM’S WORK GECOM’s Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally, in an invited comment, noted that GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer Mr Keith Lowenfield and his team are an “exact” group who are committed to “ensuring that all the ‘t’s are crossed and the ‘i’s are dotted”.

“Positive,” he declared, when asked for his view of the day’s proceedings.

Dr Surujbally said there was a notable level of camaraderie among political contenders at yesterday’s Nomination Day event.

Looking forward, he said, “My swansong has always been: (a) that everyone accepts the results and (b) that there is peace.”

The Chronicle was also informed by a senior GECOM official that the lists are expected to be completely vetted

by Thursday. “Once the lists have been checked, GECOM will be able to say who qualifies to contest, and we will publish those lists. We will be good to go.”

In accordance with the electoral system of Proportional Representation, in order to qualify for a seat in the National Assembly, contesting parties must contest a minimum of six (6) of the Geographical Constituencies — totalling at least 13 seats — for eligibility to contest and submit Geographical Constituencies Lists and National Top-up Lists. This arrangement will provide for qualified contesting parties to submit, on Nomination Day, two separate Lists of Candidates.

Any political party can contest the election of members of any of the 10 Regional Democratic Councils. For this purpose, a List of Candidates must be submitted on Nomination Day.

By Vanessa Narine ‘We are confident that the PPP/C has the best manifesto and the best list.

Promises have been made out there all the time, but we have been making great efforts of creating the social and physical infrastructure to take our country to higher places’ – President Donald Ramotar ‘We have committed ourselves to competence and balance…We have a list that is going to move this country forward” – Brigadier (rtd) David Granger ‘My swansong has always been: (a) that everyone accepts the results and (b) that there is peace’ – GECOM Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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April 10–16, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

World News Highlights

BEIJING - OPEC’s strategy of holding output steady is not working and the group’s members should discuss production levels before its next meeting in June, Iran’s oil minister said, a sign of the pain lower prices are causing OPEC’s less wealthy producers.

ADEN - Iran’s leader on Thursday condemned the military intervention by its main regional rival Saudi Arabia in Yemen as genocide, sharply escalating Tehran’s rhetoric against the twoweek-old campaign of air strikes.

WASHINGTON - An American man has been charged with trying to provide support for the Islamic State militant group, the U.S Justice Department said on Thursday.

NEW DELHI - India has blocked foreign funding to the local branch of Greenpeace and restricted some activities, a government statement said on Thursday, with New Delhi accusing the environmental group of misusing funds.

took to the streets in towns and cities across France on Thursday in union-led protests against public spending cuts that closed down the Eiffel Tower to tourists and coincide with strikes by air traffic controllers and state radio workers.

WASHINGTON - The United States said on Wednesday it was troubled by reported attacks on civil society protesters in Panama for the Summit of the Americas after two Republican lawmakers blamed the violence on Castro supporters.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday demanded that all sanctions on Iran be lifted at the same time as any final agreement with world powers on curbing Tehran’s nuclear program is concluded.

DAMASCUS - A Palestinian official said on Thursday he supported a Syrian army offensive to regain control of the war-battered Yarmouk camp on the outskirts of Damascus that has fallen into the hands of Islamic State.

PARIS - Tens of thousands

PARIS - France said Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s comments on Thursday demanding the immediate lifting of all sanctions demonstrated there was still a lot of work to do before reaching a final agreement on Iran’s

disputed nuclear program.

WASHINGTON - U.S. progressive groups rallied on Thursday to persuade Democratic senators not to support a bill giving Congress a vote on a nuclear deal with Iran, echoing the White House’s insistence that the measure could blow up delicate negotiations.

MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan - Militants armed with rocket-propelled grenades and other weapons stormed a court in Afghanistan’s northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif on Thursday, killing the district police chief and two other officers, authorities said. | Video DUBAI - Iran has summoned Saudi Arabia’s charge d’affaires in Tehran after a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition waging air strikes in Yemen said Iran had been training Yemen’s

Houthi fighters, IRNA news agency said on Thursday.

MILAN - A man on trial for bankruptcy shot dead a judge, a lawyer and a co-defendant in the Palace of Justice in central Milan on Thursday, emergency services said. | Video KABUL - The Afghan cabinet’s latest choice for defense minister dropped out on Wednesday, just two days after being nominated for the job, underlining tensions between the president and rival parties within the national unity government.

BEIJING - China on Thursday sketched out plans for the islands it is creating in the disputed South China Sea, saying they would be used for military defense as well as to provide civilian services that would benefit other countries.

Fortify Your Knowledge About Vitamins Contributed by Renita Nal, RPH, Hollis Prescription Center

A

ccording to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) vitamins are essential nutrients that contribute to a healthy life. Although most people get all the vitamins they need from the foods they eat, millions of people worldwide take supplemental vitamins as part of their health regimen.

Why Buy Vitamins?

There are many good reasons to consider taking vitamin supplements, such as over-the-counter multivitamins. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), a doctor may recommend that you take them: • for certain health problems • if you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet • if you are pregnant or breastfeeding Vitamin Facts Your body uses vitamins for a variety of biological processes, including growth, digestion, and nerve function. There are 13 vitamins that the body absolutely needs: vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and the B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12 and folate). AAFP cites two categories of vitamins.

• Water-soluble vitamins are easily absorbed by the body, which doesn’t store large amounts. The kidneys remove those vitamins that are not needed.

• Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed into the body with the use of bile acids, which are fluids used to absorb fat. The body stores these for use as needed.

Practice Safety with Dietary Supplements When it comes to purchasing dietary supplements, Vasilios Frankos, Ph.D., Director of FDA’s Division of Dietary Supplement Programs, offers this advice: «Be savvy!»

Today’s dietary supplements are not only vitamins and minerals. «They also include other less familiar substances such

as herbals, botanicals, amino acids, and enzymes,» Frankos says. «Check with your health care providers before combining or substituting them with other foods or medicines.» Frankos adds, «Do not self-diagnose any health condition. Work with your health care providers to determine how best to achieve optimal health.»

Consider the following tips before buying a dietary supplement: • Think twice about chasing the latest headline. Sound health advice is generally based on research over time, not a single study touted by the media. Be wary of results claiming a «quick fix» that departs from scientific research and established dietary guidance.

• More may not be better. Some products can be harmful when consumed in high amounts, for a long time, or in combination with certain other substances.

• Learn to spot false claims. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Examples of false claims on product labels include: • Quick and effective «cure-all» • Can treat or cure disease • «Totally safe,» «all natural,» and has «definitely no side effects» Other red flags include claims about limited availability, offers of «no-risk, money-back guarantees,» and requirements for advance payment.

«Also ask yourself, «Is the product worth the money?’» Frankos advises. «Resist the pressure to buy a product or treatment on the spot. Some supplement products may be expensive or may not provide the benefit you expect. For example, excessive amounts of water-soluble vitamins, like vitamins C and B, are not used by the body and are eliminated in the urine.»

Special Nutrient Needs According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, many people consume more calories than they need without taking in recommended amounts of a number of nutrients. The Guidelines warn that there are

numerous nutrients—including vitamins— for which low dietary intake may be a cause of concern. These nutrients are: • calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and vitamins A (as carotenoids), C, and E (for adults) • calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and vitamin E (for children and adolescents) • vitamin B-12, iron, folic acid, and vitamins E and D (for specific population groups).

Regarding the use of vitamin supplements, the Dietary guidelines include the following: Consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods and beverages within and among the basic food groups. At the same time, choose foods that limit the intake of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, salt, and alcohol.

Meet recommended nutrient intakes within energy needs by adopting a balanced eating pattern, such as one of those recommended in the USDA Food Guide or the National Institute of Health’s Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan.

1. If you’re over age 50, consume vitamin B-12 in its crystalline form, which is found in fortified foods or supplements.

2. If you’re a woman of childbearing age who may become pregnant, eat foods high in heme-iron and/or consume ironrich plant foods or iron-fortified foods with an iron-absorption enhancer, such as foods high in vitamin C. 3. If you’re a woman of childbearing age who may become pregnant or is in the first trimester of pregnancy, consume adequate synthetic folic acid daily (from fortified foods or supplements) in addition to food forms of folate from a varied diet.

4. If you are an older adult, have dark skin, or are exposed to insufficient ultraviolet band radiation (such as sunlight), consume extra vitamin D from vitamin D-fortified foods and/or supplements.

How Vitamins are Regulated Vitamin products are regulated by FDA as «Dietary Supplements.» The law defines dietary supplements, in part, as products taken by mouth that contain a «dietary ingredient» intended to supplement the diet.

Listed in the «dietary ingredient» category are not only vitamins, but minerals, botanicals products, amino acids, and substances such as enzymes, microbial probiotics, and metabolites. Dietary supplements can also be extracts or concentrates, and may be found in many forms. The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 requires that all such products be labeled as dietary supplements.

In June 2007, FDA established dietary supplement «current Good Manufacturing Practice» (cGMP) regulations requiring that manufacturers evaluate their products through testing identity, purity, strength, and composition.

Risks of Overdoing It As is the case with all dietary supplements, the decision to use supplemental vitamins should not be taken lightly, says Vasilios Frankos, Ph.D., Director of FDA’s Division of Dietary Supplement Programs.

«Vitamins are not dangerous unless you get too much of them,» he says. «More is not necessarily better with supplements, especially if you take fat-soluble vitamins.”

For some vitamins and minerals, the National Academy of Sciences has established upper limits of intake (ULs) that it recommends not be exceeded during any given day. (For more information, visit www.nap. edu/catalog.php?record_id=6432#toc Also, the AAFP lists the following side effects that are sometimes associated with taking too much of a vitamin.

• Fat-soluble Vitamins • A (retinol, retinal, retinoic acid): Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, clumsiness, birth defects, liver problems, possible risk of osteoporosis.

You may be at greater risk of these

effects if you drink high amounts of alcohol or you have liver problems, high cholesterol levels or don’t get enough protein.

• D (calciferol): Nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, constipation, weakness, weight loss, confusion, heart rhythm problems, deposits of calcium and phosphate in soft tissues.

• If you take blood thinners, talk to your doctor before taking vitamin E or vitamin K pills.

• Water-soluble Vitamins • B-3 (niacin): flushing, redness of the skin, upset stomach.

• B-6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine): Nerve damage to the limbs, which may cause numbness, trouble walking, and pain.

• C (ascorbic acid): Upset stomach, kidney stones, increased iron absorption.

• Folic Acid (folate): High levels may, especially in older adults, hide signs of B-12 deficiency, a condition that can cause nerve damage Taking too much of a vitamin can also cause problems with some medical tests or interfere with how some drugs work.

Report Problems If you believe that you are experiencing an adverse response to taking a vitamin or a dietary supplement, Frankos advises reporting it to your health care provider, as well as to the manufacturer whose name or phone number appears on the label. You can also report directly to FDA.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

Hanumanji

S

ita Ram everyone. My name is Kelly Heeralall and I am a proud member of the Naujavaan Mandalee Youth Group of the Shaanti Bhavan Mandir.

Hanuman Jayanti was celebrated on April 4. This is the day to worship the lord who devoted his entire life to Lord Rama. Hanuman is known to be the most popular devata in our culture. That is for many reasons. The character of Hanuman teaches us of the unlimited power that lies unused within each one of us.

Hanuman directed all his energies towards the worship of Lord Rama, and his undying devotion made him such that he became free from all physical fatigue. Hanuman’s only desire was to go on serving Rama. Hanuman perfectly exemplifies ‘Dasyabhava’ devotion — one of the nine types of devotions that bond the master and the servant. His greatness lies in his complete merger with his Lord which also formed the base of his genial qualities.

This Hanuman Jayanti we should all become like Hanuman. He is one of the Hindu gods we should look up to. He shows us that when we really want to achieve something you need to go for it. You can’t sit around and think.

Hanuman went a far way to look for mother Sita. That took a lot of determination and strength. Today in the world there is too much chaos - murders, suicide, planning attacks etc. We didn’t come into the world to do this. Our world is collapsing right in front of our eyes. We came to fulfill god’s work. That doesn’t mean only praying and doing puja. Doing god’s work comes in many forms. One form is seva, which means helping others without asking anything in return. Hanuman demonstrates this action. When Lakshmana was in trouble, Hanuman brought the entire mountain to save his life yet he never seeks anything in return.

We shouldn’t only think about ourselves and the wealth we have. Hanuman who possesses all the strengths and power only used it when others were in trouble.

Today we have people in the world who use their power to hurt others. Hanuman Jayanti will be the perfect time to destroy all the bad qualities we have within us.

Let’s try to make this Hanuman Jayanti more pure. Hanuman is the mentor in our lives. He has all pure qualities. Let’s try to be like him. Let us be determined, have a pure mind, and have the strength

COPS CLEAR COPS Report urges Williams to reprimand police for total policing exercise but..

The police investigation into the March 23 “day of total policing”, which caused nationwide traffic jams and outrage, has found the events of that day were not linked to protracted wage negotiations and officers involved committed no criminal act.

One of the recommendations contained in a report of the findings, however, is that acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams call all divisional and station commanders and remind them of their duties, as well as reprimand them for the day of exercises.

On the morning of Monday, March 23, police officers set up multiple road blocks along highways and major roads, resulting in massive traffic jams, flight delays, school disruptions and the loss of millions of dollars by the business community.

Inspectors, assistant superintendents and superintendents were subsequently stripped of their power to initiate road block exercises.

At the police’s weekly news briefing yesterday, Williams revealed a report on the incident identified certain “disciplinary breaches” with respect to the commands given by the heads of divisions and stations.

He said Assistant Commissioner Vincel Edwards submitted the report to him on Tuesday, but it will not be made public.

Six divisions were identified in the report, Williams noted.

“The investigator has reported prima facie there is the issue of disciplinary breach,

and he has identified the divisional commanders in the various areas for which the road exercises were conducted and some of the station commanders who may be subject to issues around discipline,” Williams pointed out.

Asked if the report touched on the link between the “day of policing” and wage negotiations, Williams said there was no evidence to support that connection.

As to what disciplinary measures can be taken against the officers involved, Williams said: “As the head of the organisation I cannot pronounce on a matter like this unless the matter is investigated consistent with the Police Service regulations. The regulations has laid out a whole list of procedures to be followed in pursuing matters of discipline.

“Following the laid-out regulatory proce­dure the ultimate authority for imposing sanctions is that of the CoP, and that is where I sit, at the end of the process,” he stated.

Williams said the report has also identified “some revealing facts and gaps” with regard to police procedures.

He said the Police Service will be moving swiftly to improve its policies, procedures and systems to ensure there is no recurrence of the events of March 23.

“The gap had to do with the implementation at the lowest level. That is the gap we have to effectively bridge to ensure that whatever you communicate from the level of the executive goes straight through the organisation in the form to

be implemented and executed consistent with whatever is your projected mandate,” Williams said.

“We want to give the public the clear assurance that it’s never the intention of the Police Service to disrupt the smooth flow of traffic or disrupt the operations within the country,” he said.

Although describing the “day of total policing” as a brilliant concept which has been effective in reducing the number of serious crimes over the past year, Williams admitted the results of the event did not “turn out to be brilliant”.

“Day of total policing” will not be abandoned Williams said the “day of total policing” was carried out throughout 2014 and has been carried out in divisions, sections, branches without disruptions.

“It’s not something that was introduced as fresh and new on that particular day (March 23),” he said.

“Total policing day has been carried out in 2015 on many other days other than that Monday, and we did not have the disruptions. So total policing day is not abandoned,” he said.

He added: “We are truly realising a level of reduction, and it is that reduction that we would not be backing off from by changing our strategies and initiatives. We will be revisiting and improving our strategies and initiatives. We have realised a 27.8 per cent reduction in serious crimes in 2015 compared to the same period last year.”

to concur anything. This Hanuman Jayanti, prayers will help to bring him closer to us. As Gandhi says “We must become the change we want to see”. If we really want to see change in the world, we must first change ourselves to be better. With prayers and positive actions we can stop all the negativity in the world. Remember hanuman Jayanti is not only on one specific day, it is every day. Every day we should try to grow closer to Hanuman and try to be more like him.

We face many challenges every day.

Life will not be completed without challenges. Challenges will make us more determined and give us more strength to fulfill our tasks. God doesn’t look at what you have. He only looks for a pure heart and mind. As I said, you don’t need to give him the most precious thing to seek his love. There are many other ways to seek his blessings and love. Giving a smile to others and helping others. Hanuman faced many challenges in his life. He was naughty but his mentor was Surya who helped him became strong and determined. We all need great mentors. Great mentors and gurus will guide and teach us to be righteous.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

It’s how you rise from a fall that truly defines you as a person — Vp Premier WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Monday and Tuesday are ‘watching the paint dry’ days: slow, meditative, odd. Lift your gaze from your navel as necessary, but don’t expect to be shaken out of this state until Wednesday.

The start of the week, in a way, is like the slowly ticking buildup to a roller coaster’s highest drop, and Wednesday is the exhilarating beginning of a three-day-long rush. You’re in the front car of the coaster, but each turn still surprises you. This weekend, the ride might change, but you never actually slow down. Your friends and your career figure strongly.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22)

The ups and downs on Monday and Tuesday are enough to make your stomach feel funny. The challenge, in spite of what you’re feeling, is to remain alert to the details, especially in regard to legal documents, which are hard to change. Wednesday through Friday offer you, gloriously, plenty of time to relax, while ambient music plays in the background. Though that won’t solve the conundrums you’re facing, it will certainly make contemplating life’s complexities more enjoyable. Saturday and Sunday, if you don’t feel like going out, don’t.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You’re constantly reaching into your pocket on Monday, in a way that makes you nervous. Where is all of your money going? Can the leak in this dam be plugged? Yes, it can, and on Tuesday, you set about doing just that. A finger plugging the hole isn’t going to cut it. It’s time to consider anew what you value.

Wednesday through Friday is a wonderful, happy period -- you’ve found a way to express yourself, and it’s liberating. But this weekend, you’re beset by a case of bluesy nostalgia. Try to avoid your more domineering acquaintances.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Not only are you on good terms with all of your friends, you’re in a good position professionally and financially. From where you stand, you can see a great future ahead of you. Monday and Tuesday are good days to make major decisions. Then comes Wednesday, which is the beginning of full-tilt madness. Your mind is racing, and discipline, which is absolutely necessary, doesn’t come easily. Expect this to last until Friday. The weekend returns you to that ‘standing on a hilltop’ mood. You’ll have the stamina and drive to achieve what you want.

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)

Things couldn’t be richer than they are on Monday and Tuesday. When did your life become a soap opera?

And who would’ve thought you’d be traipsing around in a Groucho Marx disguise? The passion and intrigue deflate a bit by Wednesday -- thank goodness -- but it still takes some effort to be philosophical about everything afoot. Thursday and Friday, don’t be too righteous (why insist that you’re correct when you’re merely pretty sure?) and avoid any tantalizing risks. Saturday and Sunday, getting out of town may be in the stars. Brilliant idea.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Like a miner walking into a tunnel with a headlamp on, you keep coming across fascinating, glittering things. When you let yourself fully explore something you’re interested in, you also discover a lot about yourself. A partner joins arms with you on Wednesday and sticks by your side through Thursday and Friday -- not that sticking by your side is hard, what with all the fun you’re having. But, gosh, it’s more fun with company. This weekend, after such a socially copacetic week, your interactions with other people are awkward. Encourage your friends to be honest about what’s bugging them.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

What’s apparent to everyone, what’s happening on the surface, doesn’t exactly add up on Monday and Tuesday. Because you have reason to suspect something weird is afoot, either in your family life or your work life, you’re on guard.

By Wednesday, though, the weirdness sorts itself out or (even better) becomes irrelevant, and the part of your brain that was focused on warding things off concentrates instead on drawing someone close (possibly a romantic interest). Oh, happy day! The romance theme persists through Friday. Your weekend is about helping others.

The secret to becoming brilliant in a certain field is never to be embarrassed about what a dork the subject turns you into. Monday and Tuesday, devote your mind to what you love. If that’s quantum physics, by all means, wear your quantum physics nerdiness proudly. Talk about nothing else. If only you could give over the whole week to what you care about! A family obligation gets in the way of that on Wednesday, and a host of responsibilities frustratingly distracts you on Thursday and Friday. But this weekend? This weekend can be quantum physics all day, if that’s what you want.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

You feel, on Monday and Tuesday, like a baby chick just breaking out of an egg. You’re at the edge of a whole new world. The exact nature of this rebirth is unclear, but it’s safe to say that it produces a vertiginous feeling in you on Wednesday. Though you’re not rudderless, this odd sensation makes you feel as if you’re wandering aimlessly. Then, on Thursday and Friday, you’re especially susceptible to other people’s crazy ideas. You begin to sort out what it all means this weekend. Make plans, and then take steps toward implementing them.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You’re in first gear all day Monday and well into Tuesday. A connection to your deeper self is slowing you down, mostly because it’s making you feel a bit vulnerable, although there’s no reason why it should. It might be helpful to do something socially useful. Wednesday through Friday, the anxiety drops away, and what you’re left with is a beautiful sense of your own talents and goals. Plus, it just so happens that you’re in a crowd of people who would be happy to discuss these things with you. This weekend, however, it’s back to first gear. That’s totally normal.

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Your dreams are a major preoccupation on Monday and Tuesday, but rather than thinking of them as a distraction from the narrative of your life, imagine them to be enriching, valuable and instructive. An extremely active subconscious is in the stars for you, as is the desire to be alone. That works out beautifully, because Wednesday through Friday, you’re the polar opposite of alone: You have to hold your hands above your head because so many people are crowding around you. On Saturday and Sunday, strive to let your creative impulses take priority.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20)

Rather than swim into dark waters where sharks could be lurking beyond your field of vision, how about opting for the kiddie pool on Monday and Tuesday?

Stick to what you know. This whole week requires your attention and focus -- Wednesday through Friday, a difference of opinion is not the end of the world, it’s just an opportunity to articulate your way of looking at something. However, this weekend is easy. A friend does a favor for you that you barely have to ask for, which demonstrates both their virtues and yours.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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Entertainment News

Ayushmann Khurrana turns ambassador for charity cause

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ctor Ayushmann Khurrana has turned ambassador for the second edition of Wings For Life World Run, a charity event to support those with spinal cord injuries.

On May 3, thousands of runners will participate in a unique run that will take place, simultaneously, across six continents, and 35 countries.

In India, the run will kick off at 4:30 pm local time in Gurgaon. It is being organised under the aegis of Government of Haryana and the Haryana Olympics Association.

"Participating in the world run is a great opportunity for everyone around the globe to come together for one purpose, running for those who can't. This is for an excellent cause and I'm thrilled to be associated with Wings For Life. I'm also looking forward to running myself," Ayushmann said.

"I have my own back story as I was flat-footed in my childhood and it used

to be difficult for me to run. I had to get treatment and wear certain kind of shoes for that," the actor said.

Wings for Life is a non-profit research foundation established in 2004 which supports and finances research and clinical trials across the world aimed at healing the injured spinal cord.

Tom Cruise hasn't seen daughter Suri in over a year

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om Cruise, who was earlier "counting hours" to meet his and former partner Katie Holmes' 8-year-old daughter Suri, while shooting for 'Mission Impossible 5' in London, has reportedly not met her, despite being on a 2-week break from his "busy" schedule.

Sources claimed that the 52-year-old actor's rep's statement that Cruise has seen his daughter plenty, but on the down low to shield her from cameras, is not true, adding that he's just not been a part of her life, TMZ.com reported.

It has been rumoured that Cruise has been avoiding Holmes and Suri after they were declared 'Suppressive persons' (SPs) in Scientology, but the Church said that that is not true.

aylor obviously has a way with words — come on, we can ALL relate to her song lyrics — and she’s started using that skill in her love life! In fact, after first connecting with her new man, Calvin Harris, in Feb. 2015, she managed to really woo him via text message, a new report claims.

Let’s hope Taylor Swift, 25, isn’t using up all her best songwriting material in romantic messages to her boyfriend, Calvin Harris, 31. Even though their relationship is new, work has already kept Taylor and Calvin apart, but she’s managed to keep things steamy with the help of flirty and well-worded texts!

Calvin Harris & Taylor Swift Text Messages: Her Words Made Him Melt Despite meeting more than once over the years, Taylor and Calvin didn’t truly connect until the BRIT Awards in February, where they were first spotted indulging in some major PDA. And while they’ve been seen getting cozy together on several occasions since, they’ve also managed to keep things interesting while apart.

“She’s very charismatic on her phone.

She texts him a lot,” Us Weekly reports of the “Style” singer.

Considering Taylor has won fans over for years thanks to witty, relatable song lyrics, it’s no surprise that she’s been able to win Calvin over with her words, too!

Taylor Swift & Calvin Harris: Stressing About Being Apart As Love Heats Up Hopefully Taylor will be able to keep up her charming ways over text, because in less than a month, her 1989 World Tour begins, and she’ll likely be seeing a lot

less of Calvin.

“Taylor’s already stressing about how hard it’s going to be to spend so much time away from Calvin when she goes on tour,” a source told HollywoodLife. com EXCLUSIVELY. “He’s super busy with his own gigs, but she’s trying to lock him down for when he’s going to come see her.”

Busy schedules have been a problem for Taylor in past relationships — so here’s to hoping she can make it work this time!

What do you think, HollywoodLifers?

Will Taylor be able to keep Calvin interested with her texts once she goes on tour this summer?

Abhishek Bachchan begins shooting for 'Hera Phera 3'

Mariah Carey teams up with rumoured beau Brett Ratner for 'Christmas-themed' movie

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ariah Carey is set to star in an upcoming, untitled movie centered around Christmas, based on a theme related to music and her rumoured boyfriend Brett Ratner is co-producing the project.

The 45-year old actress, who had herself pitched the exciting idea to her friend Ratner, will be playing a "major role" in the film that will also include Carey's classic holiday songs along with music from other artists, E! Online reported.

The plot of the project has not yet been revealed but it is known that it will be re-

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Taylor Swift & Calvin Harris: Her Texts That Made Him Melt

lated to Christmas and portray how the power of music transports a person back in time, to their truest and most authentic feelings.

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ctor Abhishek Bachchan has begun shooting for the third installment of hit comedy franchise Hera Pheri today.

Abhishek, 36, took to Twitter to share the news with his fans. "Hera Pheri shoot day 1. Here we go... #GoForIt, [sic]" the Guru actor tweeted.

The film, a follow-up to Hera Pheri and Phir Hera Pheri, will not see Akshay Kumar, who will be replaced by John Abraham.

John, Abhishek and veteran comedian Kader Khan are the new additions in the franchise. The other two actors, Paresh Rawal and Sunil Shetty are reprising their famous characters in Hera Pheri 3. The movie will be directed by Neeraj Vohra, who also helmed the second installment.

This is the third time Abhishek and John are working together, after Dhoom and Dostana, where they pretended to be gay lovers.

The movie is scheduled to release on December 18.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

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Technology in the wrong hands can overwhelm human

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carlett Johansson, who was last seen in sci-fi flick Lucy, is all too aware about the dangers of technology running amok.

In a recent interview to the media, Johansson, who will next be seen in Avengers: Age of Ultron, reportedly said, "Since Captain America: The Winter Soldier, we've started to contemplate the reality of the future of technology or even just the technology that we're dealing with right now."

"The idea is that technology in the wrong hands can totally overwhelm humanity in a sense and overtake us. It's not

that this film goes too far down the sci-fi realm but it definitely asks the question of whether or not the human race knows what's right for it. Do we know how to govern ourselves? Are we capable of continuing to thrive or do we need to be governed by something else? Something that sees a better way or a fairer way or a more sustainable way for us. That's what we're looking at in this film and I don't think it's that far off. Maybe I'm just like a conspiracy theorist but I think certainly we're probably unaware of the decisions that are being made for us by greater powers that be."

Salman Khan booked for assault and robbery

hile Salman Khan is still embroiled in the ongoing case of black buck poaching and hitand-run, the actor has now got himself entangled in a new controversy. Apparently, an activist named Ravindra Dwivedi has accused the superstar of robbing him off his documents and also abusing him.

According to Dwivedi, when he boarded the Jet Airways, Mumbai-Delhi flight on November 4, 2014, Salman Khan used his bodyguards to intimidate him.

He further accused the superstar of verbally abusing him and also claimed that he even snatched away some important documents that had the information on the death of BJP Leader Gopinath Munde.

Also, Dwivedi maintained that he approached the Airport authorities to file a complaint against Salman Khan's behavior and alleged that they too did not co-operate with him. Hence, he decided to move to the court against the actor's behavior.

However, after tracking down the developments over three months, the Andheri Metropolitan magistrate not only ordered an investigation into the matter and asked the police officials who failed to register the complaint, to register an

FIR under section 323 (Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt), 504 (Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), 506 (Punishment for criminal intimidation) and 392 (Punishment for robbery) and even ordered the Airport officials to register the complaint at the earliest.

Shahid Kapoor to marry Mira Rajput in Bali?

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ollywoodLife has some scoop on the Haider actor’s much talked about wedding and it’s something that shouldn’t be missed!

The whole wide world knows by now that Shahid Kapoor is soon going to marry Delhi-based girl Mira Rajput by the end of this year. But what many of you might not know is that the couple are planning a destination wedding for themselves. BollywoodLife has EXCLUSIVELY learnt that the wedding nuptials of Shahid and Mira are going to take place in the beautiful island of Bali.

“It is going to be a destination wedding for Shahid and Mira. Discussions in the families are on and most probably it’s going to be Bali where the couple will exchange the vows,” a source EXCLUSIVELY revealed to BollywoodLife.

And with so much scrutiny around their marriage, Shahid and Mira and

their families want it to be a low key affair. “It’s not going to be a grand affair.

Only relatives and their close friends will be invited for the wedding,” adds the source.

Incidentally, Shahid recently finished shooting for Shandaar, which is also revolves around the concept of destination weddings. The film also stars Alia Bhatt as the female lead.

Several reports stated that the wedding, which was going to take place in December has been preponed to June.

“Those reports might be false. Because according to the banter going on in their friends circle, December is going to be the month of their shaadi,” the source further says.

Well, that’s all the scoop I have on Shahid-Mira wedding for now. Keep watching this space for all the latest goss on this marriage.

April 10–16, 2015 33 Caribbean Star Newspaper Kiran Rao goes gaga over Aamir's look in 'Dangal'

K Well-settled' LiLo expresses desire to date businessman

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indsay Lohan down with ChikungunyaLindsay Lohan accused of photoshopping imagesLindsay Lohan flashes skin in unbuttoned jumpsuitLindsay Lohan won't date anyone from show businessLindsay Lohan battles Chikungunya virus while on vacation Lindsay Lohan has revealed that after focusing on her career for so long she now wishes to date a businessman.

The 'Mean Girls' actress said in an interview that in her recent years she was so focused on her career that she didn't really thought of dating someone, but now she wants a man not in show business, E! Online reported.

The 28-year-old actress also added that for now she enjoys being single and experiencing everything about singlehood.

Shah Rukh Khan’s son AbRam makes his debut on the small screen

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ndian Premiere League season 8 started with boring pomp and show. Neither Hrithik Roshan, Shahid Kapoor nor Anushka Sharma could spice up the opening ceremony. But it seems someone is compensating for their lackluster performances with his cuteness and this awesome video straight from Eden Gardens is a proof of that. It is AbRam who is adding all the sparkle to the tournament.

Shah Rukh Khan may have skipped the opening ceremony, but he was there at the Eden Gardens to support his team Kolkata Knight Riders’ first match against Mumbai Indians this season. All the while he had baby AbRam tucked neatly around him. But guess Shah Rukh decided to give his little son some room for exploration and this video came into being.

AbRam is seen having a great time playing with water bottles with attendants running helter-skelter to rein him in. This definitely is the cutest video of the kid ever. He charmed one and all and was talked about more than KKR’s 7 wicket win over Mumbai Indians and even Shah Rukh Khan! Well, when you have a charmer of a father, you cannot help but enchant one and all.

iran Rao has already seen some of the look tests of her husband, actor Aamir Khan for the upcoming biopic Dangal and she is floored.

The filmmaker, who motivated Aamir to turn vegan for his character in the film, is now looking forward to the film which she calls special.

"I liked it (Aamir's look in Dangal) very much. He is not fully there yet but whatever look tests we have seen so far he is looking very good," Kiran told reporters here

during the special screening of Shonali Bose's film Margarita With A Straw that she hosted along with Aamir.

"This story is very special and also his character. It is something new for him," she added.

Dangal is said to be based on the life of wrestler Mahavir Phogat and Aamir is really working hard on his physique to get into the character.

The film will go on the floors soon.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

Caribbean Connections

Grenada media worker drowns attempting to save daughter’s life

S Talks between Obama and CARICOM leaders to focus on energy and security

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INGSTON, Jamaica, Tuesday April 7, 2015, CMC – Energy and security will dominate the discussions between Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders and United States President Barack Obama during their summit here on Thursday, the senior Director for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Ricardo Zuniga said Tuesday.

Speaking at a White House media briefing, Zuniga described plans for the meeting as a practical agenda to continue work already started.

“With the CARICOM leaders we are going to speak about some issues that we dealt with to a significant degree already, including security and cooperation through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative,” he said, adding that the following the meeting earlier this year with US Vice President Joe Biden, “energy security and our shared efforts to promote a more diverse, cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the Caribbean will be discussed”.

Obama, who is travelling to Panama for the Summit of the Americas over the weekend, will meet with CARICOM leaders at the Mona campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI).

The prime ministers of Barbados, Dominica and Trinidad and Tobago will address the summit on the topics Competitiveness/Prosperity, Renewable Energy and Security respectively.

US Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications, Ben Rhodes said concerns raised by regional leaders about the continued absence of Cuba from previous Summits of the Americas had influenced the US’ decision to improve diplomatic relations with Havana.

Rhodes said improved US-Cuba relations should reduce impediments to better engaging the hemisphere. Cuba will attend its first Summit of the Americas in Panama.

“Frankly it made no sense that the United States consistently made the decision to isolate ourselves from the rest of the Americas because we were clinging to a policy that wasn’t working.

“Some of the critics of our approach said if we just stuck it out for a few more years, the sanctions would achieve their desired effects, but that is not we saw ….

And part of the reason why, is that we were not joined in imposing those sanctions by any other country, because no other country agreed with our approach,” Rhodes said.

During his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, Jamaica’s debt will be among matters to be discussed.

Obama will become the first US president to visit Jamaica since 1982 and Zuniga said “we’ll have an opportunity to speak with Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller about our strong support for Jamaica’s work to deal with debt crisis, a fiscal crisis…..and its strong performance in working with the IMF (International Monetary Fund) and others to address that.

Following his summit with regional leaders, President Obama will have a town hall meeting with young leaders from across the Caribbean.

“This is similar to the types of events you see him do in South-East Asia and Africa where he will be able to focus on our commitment to partner with the youths of the region.

“Then there will be a wreath laying ceremony and then we will depart from Kingston that night,” Rhodes added.

Newly elected St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris, who will be attending his first regional summit since his election last February, said he was looking forward to the meeting as it will give the region a further boost in its relationship with the United States.

“This is an important summit. President Obama by coming to us is signalling the continuing interest of the USA in constructive engagement in the Caribbean. The areas which seem most profitable relate to security, renewable energy and the competitiveness of the region. We look forward to more concrete outcomes and deliverables,” he added.

Regional leaders will meet in caucus on Wednesday prior to the summit with President Obama.

T. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Tuesday April 7, 2015, CMC – The technical director of the Government Information Service (GIS) Hildebrand James drowned on Sunday night as he attempted to save his daughter and a friend at the Guallas Beach in the parish of St David.

“We are mourning the loss of Hildebrand James, our technical director and longstanding member of the Government Information Service family. Hill drowned at sea…in what sources describe as a heroic act, trying to save some persons who were in difficulty,” Parliamentary Secretary for Information in the Office of the Prime Minister, Winston Garraway, wrote on the social network, Facebook.

A statement issued by the GIS noted that “Hildebrand’s work at Government Information Service has transcended governments, and he was a valuable member of the team, rising through the ranks over the years”.

GIS director Rawle Titus said “our operations here at GIS will never be the same. Our most profound sympathy goes out to his family and friends. We stand

The Technical Director Of The Government Information Service (Gis) Hildebrand James Drowned On Sunday Night. with you during this very difficult time and we will do what we can here to honour his memory”.

James was also a musician and songwriter and played with the local group, Rhydum Mix. “We’ve lost a brother but your spirit will live on….we going to remember all the good times, we will keep your memory alive,” the band members wrote on their Facebook site.

James, 45, is survived by his wife and three children.

Obama Clean-up anger Vendors furious about their stalls being demolished

Vendors who ply their trade at National Heroes Circle pick up what is left of their stalls destroyed by authorities Sunday night. (PHOTO: BRYAN CUMMINGS)

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REPARATIONS for this week's visit of US President Barack Obama have triggered anger among street vendors in sections of the capital city as their stalls have been destroyed.

"We understand that they have to be fixing up areas where Obama will be travelling, but what they are doing to us is unfair," said 67-year-old Claudette Reid who sells crabs at National Heroes Circle.

"Is more than 40 years I have been selling right here so. Is through this selling I was able to send all of my children to school. Imagine, the Queen come here and them never remove wi, the Prince

also come and we were allowed to stay, so why now?" said the distraught woman.

She was supported by several other angry vendors who said they, too, were affected by the demolition that was carried out Sunday night.

Obama, who is scheduled to arrive in the island Wednesday, is to lay a wreath at the Cenotaph in National Heroes Park on Thursday evening, his final assignment before departing for Panama to attend the Seventh Summit of the Americas.

In Rae Town, vendors expressed anger at the demolition.

"Just a day ago (Sunday) we were con-

April 10–16, 2015 35 Caribbean Star Newspaper Six dead in Haiti following heavy rains and severe flooding

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Two dead in suspected murder suicide on cruise ship in Puerto Rico

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AN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Sunday April 5, 2015, CMC – Investigations are being conducted into a suspected case of murder suicide after an unidentified couple was found dead on Thursday in the cabin of a cruise ship – Holland America.

In a statement, Holland America said the cleaning staff discovered the middle aged couple, from Cleveland, Ohio, in their cabin at 11:30am (local) time after the MS Ryndam stopped here during a 14 day southern Caribbean cruise that stated in Tampa, Florida on March 29.

According to Holland America, the “cabin was immediately secured” and that authorities, including the FBI had been notified.

The MS Ryndam was scheduled to depart here for the US Virgin Islands on the day the tragedy occurred.

tacted and told that we should remove the stalls until after the Obama visit," said one vendor, who asked not to be named out of fear that she would be pressured for talking to the media.

Another vendor, Alice Waugh, told the Jamaica Observer: "We don't know what to do; after so many years selling here all we got was a warning on Sunday that we must move or else. Just a day after the warning wi come see wi stalls flat."

Over at the Harbour View roundabout, one area which was once occupied by vendors was also empty.

"We were all told to pack up and go," said one vendor who identified herself as Sandra.

The clean-up operation was questioned in light of the fact that US and Jamaican Government officials have said that Obama would be airlifted by helicopter from the Norman Manley International Airport to Up Park Camp from where he would travel by road to his hotel in New Kingston.

Yesterday, Town Clerk Robert Hill, when asked about the operations, said the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation was not responsible for all the works now taking place in the Corporate Area.

"The KSAC has been carrying out operations to remove vendors from the streets for some time now, so this is nothing new," said Hill.

"The KSAC is carrying out some of these operations, but we are not alone; there are other agencies also carrying out work to renovate the roadways and some sidewalks, so we cannot speak about all of the ongoing projects," Hill said.

ORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Tuesday April 7, 2015, CMC – At least six people have died and several thousand homes flooded as Haiti’s rainy season continues to bring suffering on the people of this French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country.

The Directorate of Civil Protection and Interior Ministry said the rains have also resulted in 245 families being relocated and 8,379 homes being flooded as a result of overflowing rivers in recent days.

In this file photo visa applicants wait to be processed at the United States Embassy in Kingston.

Three of the deaths occurred in Cite Soleil, a district of Portau-Prince and three others in Delmas, and Carrefour.

Interior Minister Ariel Henry said the district of Grand Anse

in the south is also worrisome because it has been raining since March 30. Resulting in more than 390 homes being flooded with 16 being totally destroyed,.

“We have taken steps to mobilize resources to help the affected populations,” Henry said, urging people residing in vulnerable areas to be vigilant to prevent other human and material losses.

The rains come at a time when Haiti is still dealing with the outbreak of Cholera that has resulted in 8,000 deaths and 750,000 cases since 2010.

Since December last year, 86 people are reported to have died from the disease which thrives in water.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

US deports Trinidad national convicted of weapons violations

AFAYETTE, United States, Sunday April 5, 2015, CMC – The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) agency says a Trinidad and Tobago man who served nearly 10 years in US federal prison for illegally obtaining machine guns and silencers in Florida has been deported to his native land.

ICE said that Clive L. Small, 80, was “removed from the United States” Wednesday.

He had been convicted in US District Court for the Southern District of Florida in August 2005 of conspiracy to possess machine guns and firearm silencers, and possession of machine guns and firearm silencers.

ICE said Small was taken into immigration custody in February following his release from federal prison.

Salim Bacchus freed on charge of murdering cop

A It said Small was previously deported from the United States in 1998 as ordered by an immigration judge but was paroled back into the country in 2004 to face the federal weapons charges.

“US Immigration and Customs Enforcement will continue to focus its removal resources on violent criminals and other high-priority aliens who

pose the greatest threat to our communities,” said ERO New Orleans Field Office Director David Rivera.

ICE said since October 1, 2009, more than 720 foreign fugitives have been deported from the United States and returned to their countries to face serious crimes, including kidnapping, rape and murder.

-after witness changes story

Corentyne man, who was on trial in the High Court in Berbice for the murder of policeman Jirbahan Dianand is a free man as the prosecution closed its case for the lack of evidence after its star witness changed his story.

The star witness was then dramatically arrested by police on the ground that he committed perjury in the lower court Salim Bacchus was set free hours after his trial started before Justice Franklyn Holder and a jury.

State prosecutor attorney at law Natasha Backer closed her case following the changing story from key witness Aszim Shivgobin. Defence counsel Mark Waldron then made a no-case submission.

The no- case submission was upheld by the Justice Holder; after which the forewoman returned with a formal verdict of not guilty.

Shivgobin, 18 years old, of No. 76 Housing Scheme, who is also the nephew of Salim Bacchus, was the first of thirteen witnesses called by the prosecution to give evidence.

The High Court trial heard that Shivgobin had told the lower court that he and his brother Azam and uncle Salim met officer Dianand at a restaurant opposite the National Insurance Scheme Corriverton branch. He also admitted to telling the magistrate that his uncle Salim had told Azam that he had $2.3 million dollars to pay the police. He further answered in the affirmative when it was suggested to him by the prosecution that he, his brother Azam and uncle Salim went to Moleson Creek to pay the officer the money.

Shivgobin accepted the further suggestion put forward by the state that he had indeed told the magistrate that his uncle Salim went to the now deceased policeman in his motor car and he heard two shots after.

Aszim, who was 15 years old at the time, when

asked what date he had given the evidence said he could not recall. He was shown the original deposition and accepted that he had given the evidence on the 6th of December 2012; the day the preliminary inquiry began.

After clarifying that the witness would recall what was his testimony in the Springlands magistrate’s court, State Prosecutor Backer quizzed the witness on if he was aware that the story he had given three years ago was different to the one given yesterday in court. He accepted that it was a different story.

When put to him by the prosecution that both stories could not be true and the one given yesterday was the fable, Shivgobin boldly said “I was forced to tell that story because Sergeant Johnson and Corporal Caesar tell me to say that Uncle Salim shoot the policeman and they gone charge me for murder, and I gone go to jail for the rest of my life… I came here today [yesterday] to speak the truth nobody force me to do so” he declared.

Under cross-examination, he maintained that he was forced by police to testify that his “uncle Salim killed the policeman”. He also stated during cross-examination, when he told the police he could not do it, they threatened to “charge him with murder and he would have to spend the rest of his life in prison”.

After Shivgobin finished testifying he took a seat in the audiences. As he exited the court room, he was arrested by police but not without resistance.

On September 14, 2012, Dianand was discovered dead in his car, at Jackson Creek, Corentyne, which was parked on a lonely road two miles from Moleson Creek. He had been shot twice. He sustained one wound to his forehead and the other below his left ear.

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.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

37

I intend to improve the lot of Guyanese …or else I don’t want to be President, says Donald Ramotar

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Alicia Ali

Police looking at ‘persons of interest’ in death of schoolgirl Alicia Ali

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olice on the East Coast are looking at some “persons of interest” as they continue their probe into the death of schoolgirl Alicia Ali whose nude body was found on the seawall near Turkeyen on March 25.

According to police sources, investigators had questioned the girl’s relatives as well as a male friend but since then nothing new has happened. One source noted though that investigators have some persons they are looking at.

Stabroek News was unable to make contact with the teen’s relatives yesterday.

Circumstances surrounding the discovery of the girl’s body remain hazy, since the garments she was wearing at the time she went missing were not found, while her body bore visible marks of violence.

A post-mortem examination revealed that she died as a result of asphyxia due to drowning, compounded by a compression injury to the neck and blunt trauma to the head.

The Campbellville Secondary student went missing after she was sent on an errand to a nearby shop at about 7 pm.

Her mother then raised an alarm and was joined by friends who went in search of her. They came up empty handed.

Police later found a suicide note allegedly written by the teen and addressed to her mother. Police officials have indicated that they have not ruled out suicide from the investigation although they were looking in the direction of a murder.

ADVERTISE IN CARIBBEAN STAR Newspaper

RESIDENT Donald Ramotar last evening told Alexander Village residents, “I do not want to be President if I cannot do things to uplift the welfare of my people.”Speaking to the very large crowd that gathered at Third and Cross Streets in the village, he said over the last three years the Opposition had stifled development in the country.

“Some $89B was cut from the budget in very important areas that were allocated to be spent to improve the welfare of the people. They set out to deliberately damage Guyana,” he said.

He continued to list benefits to be had from the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, and declared that this project was vital for the rapid growth of our economy and further development of Guyana. He said that with the return of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, the hydro project would be high on the administration’s agenda.

The Head of State noted that in all aspects of this project, “We will create new jobs. we will not be a Third World country that is short of investments, where we will have cheap labour; but we will be able to attract the high-end investments because we will have a highly educated population (that is) capable of handling sophisticated equipment.”

President Ramotar noted that one major project that seeks to improve further the lifestyle of Guyanese through the development of the Tourism Sector is the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

“In the 2013 budget the Opposition voted for the new airport and we started to build; and in 2014 they voted against

giving the money for airport expansion”, he noted. The President also spoke at length on the consequences the country will face because of the non-passage of the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Bill; he explained that the only people set to benefit from the non-passage of the bill were the criminals who are friends of the Opposition.

“The international community can blacklist your financial institutions. It is not accidental that they voted against the AML Bill because they have long standing relationship with criminals. These people do not care for development they only seek power. I do not want to be President if I cannot do things to uplift the welfare of my people,” he said.

President Ramotar noted that this is why “we have been investing in our people! We are the only country in the Region where more than 30% of our budget goes to the social sector — to education, health, housing and water.”

President Ramotar highlighted all the achievements of the education sector, noting the recent $10,000 per child programme and the ongoing hot meals programme. He also noted the free textbook and exercise book distribution and the school uniform vouchers. These programmes, he said, were all implemented to assist parents in having their children remain in school so that Guyana’s population would be an educated one.

He reassured farmers too that, under this Government, they will continue to benefit from a higher quality of life. “Not only will we continue to provide the social services for you and your children, but for the sugar industry as well — the

President Ramotar in conversation last evening with villagers industry that has been responsible for having all our people here. We will ensure the survival of this industry, and, over the next five years, we will invest a minimum of $20B for its survival.”

President Ramotar also disclosed plans for the rice industry. He noted: “We have not forgotten you, but have been fighting for you all along. We will continue to search for higher paying markets for our rice; we will work to create a system of price support to ensure our farmers have a more predictable and better standard of living,” he said.

He also spoke on the critical importance and absolute imperative of the Specialty Hospital, and how vital it is for the Guyanese people.

The President noted too that “very soon I will be visiting the rig on our shores and Guyana will very soon be an oil and gas producing country. We are preparing our people for this by providing them with access to technical education.”

“We in the PPP/C have been standing by you all these years, Stand by the PPP/C, and stand by me and let’s return the PPP/C to a majority Government,” President Ramotar urged his supporters.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

April 10–16, 2015

CRICKET & Sports

Alex Rodriguez receives loud ovation in Yankee Stadium return

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EW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez received the loudest ovation of any Yankeesplayer during Opening Day introductions as the fans predominately cheered him in his return to Yankee Stadium, mostly drowning out the boos.

After missing all of 2014 because of his drug suspension, Rodriguez batted seventh in the lineup as New York’s designated hitter Monday. He went 1-for-2 with a walk and, besides the loud ovations, was welcomed back with signs and chants during the Yankees’ 6-1 loss to the Blue Jays.

“I have to admit, it definitely felt good,” said Rodriguez, who last played in a regular-season game in September 2013.

“That’s for sure. I have a lot of love for the city of New York, especially our fans.

“But let’s make it clear -- the fans don’t owe me anything. I’ve said all along during spring training, the part of feeling like a rookie is I have to earn their cheers and their respect.”

Rodriguez, 39, called this Opening Day “probably the most special” one he has had ever experienced. His mother was in attendance.

“This is a special day for my family,” Rodriguez said. “It is a special day for my mother. I’m especially happy for her. I know she had some tears probably going into the day. Moms are moms.”

When Rodriguez stepped to the plate for the first time to lead off the bottom of the third inning, he received a thunderous ovation, with many of the fans standing. There was a small group of fans who gave an “A-Rod” chant. He ended up

Alex Rodriguez appeared in an Opening Day game Monday for the first time since 2012. walking, becoming the Yankees’ first baserunner of the game.

During the top of the first, Yankee Stadium’s “Bleacher Creatures” included Rodriguez in their roll call. Normally, the fans located in right field only call out the Yankees’ fielders, chanting their names until each player acknowledges the crowd, and the DH usually is not included.

After the fans chanted his name, Rodriguez tipped his cap from the top step of the dugout.

“I love our Bleacher Creatures,” Rodriguez said. “I thought it was a pretty neat experience.”

In the left-field stands, a group of fans had letters that spelled out “#FORG1V3,” which has become a hashtag among Yan-

kees fans on Twitter after Derek Jeter’s “RE2PECT” dominated last year.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi has indicated he will use Rodriguez sparingly in the field this season. Girardi said he was not surprised by the reaction to Rodriguez on Monday.

“I think we live in a forgiving society overall,” Girardi said. “We live in a society that gives people second and third chances, fourth, fifth. I’ve seen it with some of the players when I was here early, who had a lot of chances and came back.”

Rodriguez last appeared in a regular-season game on Sept. 25, 2013, during the appeal of his suspension. He only played a total of 44 games that season. The three-time MVP had not played on Opening Day since 2012.

Rodriguez’s history with Yankees fans has been up and down; even when he was winning MVPs, he would hear boos when he did not come through.

Rodriguez completed spring training free of controversy and injuries. He hit enough -- .267 with three homers and four RBIs in 45 at-bats -- that Girardi singled Rodriguez out for how good he looked.

Rodriguez has three years and $61 million remaining on his contract with the Yankees. If he hits six more homers, he will tie Willie Mays for fourth place on the all-time list, which could be worth another $6 million. The Yankees have vowed to fight the bonus, as they plan to argue that it is worthless because of Rodriguez’s drug history.

KKR begin title defense with win at home Kolkata Knight Riders 170 for 3 (Gambhir 57, Suryakumar 46, Pandey 40) beat Mumbai Indians 168 for 3 (Rohit 98*, Anderson 55*) by 7 wickets

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e will be reminded time and again via highlights reel how the IPL is the breeding ground for the best fielding in the known universe, but what will not be mentioned is that on the opening night of its eighth edition seven catches were dropped. Kolkata Knight Riders let three slip, Mumbai Indians outdid them, and fittingly the defending champions got their campaign off to a victorious start.

Morne Morkel was the one outstanding player on a night of otherwise unremarkable cricket, bowling four overs in one go for 18 runs and two wickets. That start from Morkel meant Mumbai were stifled for more than half of their innings, and despite the 88 they scored in the last six overs they were about 20 light. Helped by

the sloppy fielding and ineffective bowling, Knight Riders were efficient in the chase with Gautam Gambhir scoring a fifty, and Manish Pandey and Suryakumar Yadav chipping in with forties.

Knight Riders, especially at home, have relied on their superior bowling if not necessarily to take wickets but at least to restrict sides and force them into making mistakes. Rohit Sharma, who scored 98 not out, was fluent right from the start, but Knight Riders were all over the rest of the top order. This was Rohit’s 10th fifty-plus score in an IPL defeat, the most by any batsman. Aaron Finch top-edged Morkel to put a brake on the runs. Aditya Tare chipped Shakib Al Hasan straight to long-off, neither looking to keep the ball down nor looking to hit a six. This wouldn’t be Tare’s last mistake on the night.

Tare’s wicket in the fifth over was a cue for Gambhir to go all out looking for wickets. Morkel bowled the sixth over with slips in place for Ambati Rayudu. Two

balls in, Rayudu obliged, edging a shortof-a-length delivery straight to first slip.

The wicket-maiden made it 37 for 3 after six. This is usually time when Knight Riders drive the nail in. They went to the returning Sunil Narine. He might not have looked as effective as he did with his old action, but this might be too early to pass judgement on that. His four overs still conceded only 28, playing an important part in keeping Mumbai down to 80 for 3 after at the end of the 14th over.

In the 15th over Rohit opened up, punishing some gentle length bowling from Umesh Yadav. Anderson had already been dropped at deep midwicket by Andre Russell. Rohit would soon be let off by wicketkeeper Robin Uthappa. In all the two batsmen would add a total of 60 runs since being dropped, but that was about to be overshadowed in the chase.

If Mumbai carried any momentum from their finish, they lost it immediately with Tare dropping Gambhir for 1.

Uthappa was dropped too, but Anderson made sure he didn’t cost Mumbai much. When Anderson next dropped somebody, it proved costlier. With Pandey chipping Harbhajan Singh down longoff, Anderson misjudged, rain in too far, and managed to get just one hand to it.

Knight Riders were 74 for 1 in nine overs, this was the time when Mumbai would have hoped to sneak back in, but they kept letting it slip.

Gambhir kept hurting Mumbai, punishing every error with the ball, of which there were quite a few with bowlers other than Lasith Malinga and Vinay Kumar failing to stretch the batsmen. By the time Gambhir was dropped next, a tough chance off his own bowling by Harbhajan, the ricochet took him to a four that brought up his fifty. They needed just 57 off 40 now, and if there were any nerves Suryakumar settled them with some clean flicks off the pads, two of them went all the way for six.

Caribbean Star Newspaper WICB reschedules Australia Tests

April 10–16, 2015

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he West Indies Cricket Board has announced changes to the dates for the two-Test series between West Indies and Australia, with the matches being advanced by two days.

The first Test will now start on June 3 in Dominica, while the second Test will be played from June 11 at Sabina Park in Jamaica. The three-day tour game, originally scheduled to begin on May 30 at North Sound, will now be played from May 27 to 29.

“We are fully aware that there are a number of fans planning to travel around and to the Caribbean for the Australia tour, and we want to explain to them that the change was absolutely necessary, due to a number of logistical challenges beyond our control,” WICB Manager, Cricket Operations Roland Holder said.

The tour match and the two Tests between West Indies and Australia have been advanced by two days

IPL hopes to cure World Cup hangover Within ten days after the World Cup final, the IPL is here. But one factor that will draw Indian crowds in is that after Australia and New Zealand, cricket is now closer to the fans

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olkata is under the spell of Kalboishaskhi jhor (thunder showers). But within 24 hours from now this grey, besieged city will erupt in joyful technicolor as the eighth season of IPL starts at Eden Gardens with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders playing Mumbai Indians. Seventy-thousand fans are likely to fill the majestic ground not just to watch the cricket, but also to sing and dance at a party to be hosted by Knight Riders owner and in-house DJ Shah Rukh Khan.

But in contrast to the past, the hype this time has been restrained, eclipsed by the build-up for the elections for the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, which take place next week. Take a walk or a drive across Kolkata and you will see more faces of local politicians staring and reaching out from cut-outs hanging across the city than cricketers. Add to the fact that the IPL is being played so close to the World Cup and it might be heading to a damp squib. But IPL has faced bigger challenges before.

One factor that will draw crowds in is cricket is now close to the fans. The World Cup was played far away in Australia and New Zealand. A lot of those match-winners are now in the IPL. It would be a

The IPL might start on a muted note but the volume is only going to get louder by the day © BCCI great opportunity to watch the heroes in person.

But it is the stories and feats that will build the excitement. Will there be an almost famous story that Sanjay Bangar’s Kings XI Punjab scripted by finishing runners-up last season? Riveting moments like Corey Anderson smashing Rajasthan Royals’ fast bowlers to capture an insurmountable asking rate which forced the usually stoic Rahul Dravid to throw his cap in disgust as Mumbai Indians made the playoffs.

The new season has its own attractions: Ricky Ponting enters the coaching arena for the first time as the head coach of Mumbai Indians. Would his team be the no-holds-barred outfits he led wearing the baggy green? Can Virat Kohli, back after a dominant season in the Test series in Australia in his first stint as India’s captain, finally inspire Royal Challengers Bangalore to their first IPL title?

How many and what kind of records can Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, Glenn Max-

well, Brendon McCullum break in a tournament that favours batting?

Theatre is a huge part of IPL’s fabric.

One of the most controversial moments of IPL history was witnessed when a verbal tussle between Royal Challengers’ Mitchell Starc and Mumbai’s Kieron Pollard virtually came close to physical blows. Starc threw the ball at Pollard who responded by flinging the bat in the direction of his opponent.

Even at the World Cup, sledging was one of the biggest talking points and the IPL is bound to witness more. As reported last week players want to sort the issue among themselves as far as possible without being suffocated by the match officials.

But would the new BCCI administration allow such leniency? Jagmohan Dalmiya, the BCCI president, even when he was the interim BCCI chief two years back when the corruption scandal broke, has always favored austerity. In his second stint as the BCCI head, Dalmiya wants to

get the focus back on cricket.

His administration reportedly did not want to spend too much on hiring very expensive A-list entertainers for the opening ceremony and instead set a restricted budget for the occasion. Probably Dalmiya understands the real entertainment remains in the tournament. It is a place where both cricket and Bollywood come together.

Even the skeptic taxi driver is getting curious. He wants to know the big buys of this year’s auction. Who bought and dropped whom? How many matches are Kolkata playing at home in April?

Despite the weariness, the cart puller, the taxiwallah, the man on the street knows the IPL is here. The skies are clear. They know their team is the defending champion. Soon the addas andkattas and local trains will be raging with debates about matches from around the country. The IPL might start on a muted note but the volume is only going to get louder by the day.

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April 10–16, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Vaughan, Stewart interested in England role

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he England and Wales Cricket Board announced the new position on Wednesday as Paul Downton lost his job as their managing director of cricket, with his current post also scrapped.

Vaughan, England’s 2005 Ashes-winning captain, was immediately linked with the new role, with the recently-installed ECB chief executive Tom Harrison eager to have Downton’s successor concentrate solely on cricket performance rather than administration.

This has led to the names of several former England captains being touted for the job, with Vaughan and Stewart, currently Surrey’s director of cricket, both being mentioned.

But were Vaughan to take up the job he would have to put on hold his successful career as a media pundit and in his column for Thursday’s Daily Telegraph he said he would need to know more about the ECB’s intentions.

“It will take honesty and unity to make a change. In (incoming ECB chairman) Colin Graves and Tom Harrison we have a chance to change English cricket and admit our problems,” Vaughan wrote.

“Let us finally do it. Stop looking at what your own county needs and ask what is best for English cricket moving forward and what is right for the England team to sustain a proper period of success.

“For the first time since retiring six years ago I am open to a conversation with the ECB. I am passionate about English cricket. I love the game and I always want England to move forward and be successful.

“I have a vision for the game and I think I will be one of many ex-players who will be more than willing to talk to the ECB to see what exactly the role is and how much influence it will wield over the future structure of our game.

“The brief has to be wider and more powerful than Paul’s to have any real impact on England.”

- Passionate Stewart echoed Vaughan’s comments by saying Thursday that he needed to know the job specification.

“The first question is what does the job entail? What is the job description?” said Stewart.

“I’ve always been passionate about England and English cricket and if the ECB want to speak to me of course I’ll speak to them,” the former wicketkeeper-batsman added.

“It would certainly be a job, if it’s the right job, where you’d be silly not to listen to them.

“That’s not just me, that’s anybody within the game who feels they could make a difference at the top level.”

Former England wicketkeeper Downton’s 15 months at the ECB saw him play a key role in the highly controversial decision to axe star batsman Kevin Pietersen from the national set-up after England’s 2013/14 Ashes whitewash in Australia.

Downton’s watch also coincided with England’s woeful performance in the recent World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, where the team exited before the knockout phase.

This led to renewed criticism of England coach Peter Moores, controversially brought back for a second stint in charge of the national side with Downton hailing him as the “coach of his generation”.

With Downton having gone, the spotlight is now on national selector James Whitaker ahead of England’s Test series in the West Indies, which starts in Antigua next week.

Graves’ comments that Pietersen could force his way back into the England set-up through sheer weight of county runs were seen as undermining Downton’s position.

Now South Africa-born Pietersen is preparing to take Graves at his word after re-signing with Surrey for the upcoming English county season.

Trainer: Manny Pacquiao motivated by Floyd Mayweather’s past issues

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anny Pacquiao’s trainer says his boxer is especially motivated to beat Floyd Mayweather because of Mayweather’s history of domestic violence.

Freddie Roach, right, says Manny Pacquiao’s “killer instinct is going to come back a lot faster” against Floyd Mayweather. hris Hyde/Getty Images “Manny is really against domestic violence,” Freddie Roach told USA Today on Tuesday. “It is a big issue maybe in the Philippines for him and being a congressman he can control some of that stuff.

That is a big plus for me that Manny does not like the guy, I think the killer instinct is going to come back a lot faster.”

Pacquiao and Mayweather are scheduled to fight on May 2 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Mayweather has a checkered past that

includes multiple brushes with the law.

He was incarcerated in Las Vegas for two months in 2012 for a misdemeanor domestic battery case, in which Mayweather engaged in a hair-pulling, arm-twisting attack on his former girlfriend, Josie Harris, while two of their three children watched.

“It is really hard to say these things in public, but I know (Mayweather) is a bad guy,” Roach told USA Today. “(I see the fight as) good against evil, yes. I have even thought about bringing a couple of the metro cops from Vegas in to tell Manny how many times (Mayweather) has been arrested and how bad of a guy he is, but I decided I can’t go that far. He already doesn’t like him; I think we are OK. “For the first time in my life with Manny Pacquiao, this is the first fighter he hasn’t liked. I can tell.”

April 10–16, 2015

41

Let’s not jump to conclusions with Tanaka

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asahiro Tanaka’s elbow is like a car with a transmission that slips, and eventually the problem will need to be fixed. His partially torn ligament is not going to heal on its own, and presumably, the issue will eventually manifest, either with a more gradual tear or a full tear. Maybe that will happen in his next start, maybe it’ll be later the summer, maybe next year, maybe in five years. Nobody knows.

Tanaka had a four-inning outing and a loss against the Blue Jays on Monday, raising natural questions about his stuff and his velocity, and about whether his elbow is shot and the Yankees ought to

surrender to medical reality and schedule a surgery. But based on the pitch data, the answers aren’t necessarily clear yet.

The esteemed Jeff Sullivan was one of many who wrote about Tanaka’s perceived lack of trust in his fastball Monday, about how his hard-stuff percentage dropped from 47 percent in 2014 to 35 percent Monday, counting his use of fastballs (32.9 percent) and cut fastballs (2.4 percent).

However, in his 18 starts prior to his injury last year, Tanaka had starts in which he threw a percentage of fastballs right in that range, according to Fangraphs.

Muhammad Ali hasn’t made Mayweather-Pacquaio pick

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uhammad Ali wants to set the record straight: He has not picked Floyd Mayweather or Manny Pacquiao, who are scheduled to meet in one of the biggest fights in boxing history on May 2 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“It was reported that Muhammad Ali picked a favorite in the upcoming Mayweather-Pacquiao fight on May 2. Muhammad Ali would like to wish both Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao well in their upcoming fight,” Ali family spokesman Bob Gunnell said in a statement given to ESPN.com on Thursday.

“Muhammad never offered to anyone his prediction, and information that was published earlier this week and picked up by other media is either a misquote or someone else’s personal opinion. The stories saying that Muhammad Ali has chosen a favorite in the fight are false.”

Earlier this week, TMZ quoted Rasheda Ali, one of the heavyweight great’s daughters, as saying, “My dad is Team Pacquiao all the way!”

The quote was picked up by various media outlets and reported as being a quote from Ali, not his daughter, who claimed to have been misquoted.

“Muhammad has the utmost respect for both fighters, who will undoubtedly give boxing fans an incredible match,” Gunnell said. “He believes the significance of this fight will rival other historic matches.

Muhammad Ali will join the rest of the world on May 2 to watch this matchup.”

On Tuesday, Ali sought to set the record straight on his Twitter feed.

Many view Mayweather-Pacquiao as the biggest fight in boxing since Ali’s first legendary fight for the heavyweight championship against Joe Frazier on March 8, 1971.

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April 10–16, 2015

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April 10–16, 2015

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