2014 12 19 by Guyana Chronicle

GUYANA No. 104046 FRIDAY DECEMBER 19, 2014

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $60

Joint Services to get an extra month’s salary

– President announces at GDF luncheon Page

INCLUDING VAT

Girl, 9, two adults chopped to death at Tuschen Page

First Lady Foundation fetes over 350 Bartica children

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Minister of Health declares...

‘Guyana’s continental destiny is growing’ Page

Minister Edghill lights up Christmas for Buxton single mother

President Donald Ramotar sharing meals to junior ranks of the Guyana Defence Force at Camp Stephenson, Timehri

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Lucky Dollar makes lucky customer’s day

– with motorbike giveaway

LUCKY Dollar, the furniture and appliances store, added to the Christmas excitement by handing over a motorbike to lucky customer Lonell Joseph yesterday at its Regent Street Branch. The company will be giving away nine motorbikes to lucky customers who shop from December 1, 2014 to December 23, 2014. Entering this promotion is very easy as customers simply have to shop to the value of $30,000 and over to receive a coupon

and every $30,000 spent will give them an additional coupon, thereby ensuring that the more they spend the more coupons they receive. Four motorbikes will be given away at Lucky Dollar on Regent Street and one each at the branches. Yesterday’s handing over is the second bike to be won during the Christmas promotion. This promotion has become an annual fixture on the company’s calendar and creates a lot of excitement

among customers who look forward to it during the holiday season every year. This time Lucky Dollar is also offering customers just one dollar down on their purchases plus twenty-four months and over contracts customers can get four months interest free and up to three months free installments. Lucky Dollar, a sister company to Courts Guyana, prides itself on being a part of each and every community where its stores are located and this offer is being seen as one of the many ways that the company can reward customers for their loyal patronage throughout the year.

Lucky Dollar Regent Street Branch Manager, Sharon Persaud hands over keys to the motorbike to lucky customer, Lonell Joseph (Photo by Adrian Narine)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Boko Haram unrest: Nigerian militants ‘kidnap 200 villagers’ M I L I TA N T S h a v e stormed a remote village in north-eastern Nigeria, killing at least 33 people and kidnapping about 200, a survivor has told the BBC. He said that suspected Boko Haram militants had seized young men, women and children from Gumsuri village. The attack happened on Sunday but news has only just emerged, after survivors reached the city of Maiduguri. Meanwhile, Cameroon’s army says it has killed 116

Boko Haram has taken control of several towns and villages in the north-east

Sun-seeking Canadians urged to visit Cuba now before Americans arrive (Reuters) - CANADIANS who want to enjoy uncrowded Cuban beaches and the country’s “frozen in time” charm should act soon before U.S. policy changes open the floodgates for American tourists, a Canadian cruise company warned on Thursday. Travel restrictions have

made it difficult for Americans to visit the Communist-run island for decades, in contrast with Canadians who have long thawed out in the Caribbean nation. That is about to change with more Americans being allowed to travel to Cuba after President Barack Obama

moved this week to restore diplomatic relations, even though tourism remains restricted. Canadian firm Cuba Cruise said in a statement it expects a pickup in bookings to visit Cuba while it is still “virtually free of American commercialization.” “Right now we come to

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Cuba and .. things are pretty much as they were,” Dugald Wells, chief executive officer of Cuba Cruise said from Toronto. More travel “is going to result in building and investment and modernization. Really, it’s the lack of those things that make Cuba something very special today.”

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Nigerian militants who had attacked one of its bases, AFP reports. The state of Borno has seen at least two militant attacks over the past few days. Residents told the BBC that armed militants attacked the border town of Amchide on Wednesday, arriving in two vehicles with many others on foot. They raided the market area, setting fire to shops and more than 50 houses. No group has said it carried out either attack but officials have blamed Boko Haram militants. More than 2,000 people have been killed in militant violence this year alone, mostly in north-eastern Nigeria, near the border with Cameroon. The villagers who were kidnapped on Sunday were from Gumsuri, not Bintiri, as was earlier reported by the BBC. The survivor of the Gumsuri attack said that he returned to the village and helped bury 33 bodies after the violence. He said he went from house-to-house to ascertain how many people were missing. While initial reports put

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the number of kidnapped at 100, it was actually double that, the survivor said. His testimony was confirmed to BBC Hausa by a local official. Neither person wanted their names published. Meanwhile, Reuters and AFP news agencies quoted residents as saying that at least 185 people had been abducted. A vigilante group that had protected the village from previous attacks was overpowered by the militants, AFP reported. “After killing our youths, the insurgents have taken away our wives and daughters,” a resident who fled to Maiduguri was quoted as saying. In Cameroon, the army said vehicles from its elite battalion had been caught in an ambush on Wednesday. “At the same time... the Amchide military base was attacked by hundreds of fighters from the sect, but the response from our defence forces was instant and appropriate,” the army said, according to AFP. One Cameroonian soldier was killed and an officer is missing, it added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

US-Cuba shift: Opponents threaten to block changes (BBC News) OPPONENTS of President Barack Obama’s new Cuba policy have threatened to block his efforts to restore diplomatic relations after 50 years of hostility. Florida Senator Marco Rubio promised on CNN to block the nomination of any US ambassador to Cuba. Other anti-Castro legislators suggested Congress would be removing funding for any normalised ties with the country. US-Cuban ties have been frozen since the early 1960s - a policy of isolation Mr Obama condemned as a failure. On Wednesday, the US president said it was time for a new approach. As part of the deal, US contractor Alan Gross, 65,

The rapprochement was not received well by some exiled Cubans living in the US state of Florida in the US. and an unnamed intelligence released from Cuban prison in The US will now seek to officer loyal to the US were return for three Cubans held set up an embassy in Cuba,

Mexico troops sent to La Ruana after vigilante shoot-out MORE than 400 federal police officers and soldiers have been sent to a town in Mexico’s western Michoacan state. The deployment follows a shoot-out between two vigilante groups on Tuesday in which 11 people were killed. Ballistic tests showed all of those killed had fired their weapons in the two-hour gun battle in La Ruana. The two groups of vigilantes were set up to fight the local drug cartel, but have since become bitter rivals and have started fighting each other. Gunfight Five members of a group led by Hipolito Mora and six followers of his rival, Luis Antonio Torres, were killed. Mr Mora’s 33-year-old

son was also among those shot dead. Mr Torres told local media that his men had been fired on as they were approaching a roadblock manned by members of Mr Mora’s vigilante group. “We only felt the bullets raining down on us, so we defended ourselves,” he said, describing how Mr Mora’s supporters shot at them from surrounding rooftops. We weren’t going to stand by with our arms crossed waiting to be killed.” Mr Mora did not give a description of the shooting but said he would request protection from the police. Mr Mora said he would not give up his weapons or ask his men to disarm because “that would be akin to suicide”.

Growing tension Security commissioner Alfredo Castillo said that if evidence suggested Mr Mora was involved in the shooting, he would be detained. Mr Mora’s and Mr Torres’s “self-defence groups” were set up in February 2013 to fight a drugs cartel calling itself the Knights Templar. Earlier this year, they took control of a number of towns in the western state and drove out the Knights Templar, who had been extorting money from local businessmen and farmers. But tensions soon emerged between the different groups, which accused each other of having been infiltrated by the very same drugs gang they were set up to fight.

expand US visitors to Cuba, open up banking and increase caps on how much cash Cubans can post to relatives on the island. But only Congress has the power to end the full trade embargo, and with many Republicans deeply opposed to such a change, correspondents say it is unlikely to happen soon. Among those opposed to restoring diplomatic relations was Democratic Senator Robert Menendez who said he was “deeply disappointed”. “It’s a fallacy to believe that Cuba will reform because an American president opens his hands and the Castro brothers will suddenly unclench their fists.” Fellow Senator Lindsey

Graham, a Republican, said he would be among those trying to pass legislation to undercut funding for policy changes, including setting up an embassy. “Normalising relations with Cuba is a bad idea at a bad time,” tweeted Mr Graham, who will become chairman of a commitee that determines state department funding in January. Republican Senator Marco Rubio slammed the deal as “inexplicable”. “Appeasing the Castro brothers will only cause other tyrants from Caracas to Tehran to Pyongyang to see that they can take advantage of President Obama’s naivete during his final two years in office,” Mr Rubio said in a statement.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Living by the gun, dying by the gun EVERY once in a while the Guyana Police Force executes its mandate with exemplary action, dispelling the popular notion that ranks are either unable or unwilling to protect the populace in successful crime prevention. The swift response and timely action by the police during a robbery at the Lahago supermarket recently is a case in point. However, this would not have been possible if the proprietors had not provided themselves with requisite protective mechanisms by way of an alarm system that alerted the police as soon as the attack commenced. Criminals would always look for the next prey and no-one is safe from them, and until and unless a combined effort by all stakeholders is made to eradicate this real plague that has infested the Guyanese society the country would forever be held to ransom by these lawless, godless, amoral creatures who choose to live as predators, rather than law-abiding citizens of the land. It is a terrible indictment on the judiciary that armed robbers who violate the persons, properties, homes, and bodies of the citizens of this land are rapped on the knuckles and

set free to continue their predatory practices once more – and the negligible amounts of bail which releases them to once more steal, and even kill, makes a mockery of the rights of the victims, the security of the nation, and the efforts of members of the joint services, who often lay their lives on the line to apprehend perpetrators, only to see them walk the streets shortly after, openly in search of defenceless prey. On the other side of the coin, persons whom are not violent, and who pose no real extended threat to the wider society are locked up with hardened criminals in environments and conditions that could very well transform them into real enemies of society, thereby inflating a rapidly expanding criminal network. Governmental institutions, such as hospitals and health centres, schools, community centres, et al – even sidewalks, could be kept in pristine condition if petty criminals could serve their time doing community work instead of being clothed, fed, and housed at the expense of taxpayers. Every day the courts could churn out a labour force to weed yards and parapets, clean drains and canals, paint and wash pub-

The Accounting Revolution ONE Adam Smith’s passing observations in his book The Wealth of Nations is that humans resort to trade, exchange, the Market, as an alternative to war. We all know that war decimates. It decimates human civilisation and the ecology. If you want something which I have, why not trade, exchange, come to the big bargaining yard, the Market, instead of robbing it, grabbing it, fighting over it? Or killing our families, leaders, classes, elites, governments, nations over it? Thus, Markets are as old as human civilisation. Markets predate Capitalism by thousands of years. Markets might have been invented as a civilising instrument, to avoid war. Additionally, Smith’s insight suggests, or leads to the conclusion that if trade, exchange, or the Market is unfair, then war could result. If Market does not achieve equity then war could result. The Market equilibrium must therefore be guided by a moral equilibrium. Thus, all labour, from top to bottom - from the masters of industry, government, to the ordinary workers, journeymen, artisans, proletarians, civil servants - deserve equity in the labour Market. Moreover, putting aside equity, if the parties buying and selling their labour, assets, resources, are unhappy with the exchange or trade, there will be, resentment, dis-ease, war! Karl Marx developed this idea in his

analysis of labour and class warfare. His idea was that the workers, servants, serfs, peasants, peons, plebeians, proletarians, under Capitalism, were exploited. This is because the masters bought the labour of the workers at undervalued rates. And Capitalist ideology codified and enshrined this undervaluation. This ideology, reinforced by church, school, law, the media etc, facilitated this undervaluation, smoothened over this contradiction, making the worker not recognize the real value of his labour. The master, however, understood value: he would take the surplus of this undervalued labour and create wealth for himself; or for his family; or for the elite group to which he belonged. The surplus, therefore, perpetuated the ideology which kept the workers blind to the contradictions, the inequity inherent in wage labour. Marx’s solution to this entrenched system of undervaluation of labour, this inequity, was social war. Actual physical social war. It was the task of the workers to overthrow the bourgeois class and form a proletarian revolution. The social war would lead to Socialism; and economic system which would, he presumed, lead to equity. Social war and revolution were imperative because the labour Market was oppressive, leading to a perpetual recycling of an oppressive ideology. In other words, in the absence of equity, fair trade and exchange, a fair Market, the solution was revolution, the overthrow of the master class.

lic buildings, etc. Volunteers could oversee these felons to ensure that they perform creditably, or else their term of community service could be extended. Many schoolyards, rather than providing an avenue for healthy play and exercise, are hazards to the health and welfare of the nation’s children, so parents or retired grandparents could provide oversight services to prisoners for cleaning/rehabilitation/renovation of schools and schoolyards. The judicial system could even invite the private sector to be partners in such an initiative, because there are many within Guyana’s entrepreneurial corridors who would welcome a restoration of standards within the various communities. Such a programme could incorporate many dimensions to address the variances of social rapprochement to the development and enhancement of individuals and the society at large. However, we need to get the hardcore, inhumane, and murderous criminals off the streets, regardless their age. A thirteen-yearold or a thirty-year-old pulling the trigger of a gun at point-blank range still results in the death of the victim. Today’s Classical Economics perpetuates inequities in our relations of trade, exchange and the Market. This is why one may safely say that modern Classical Economics is the nursemaid of oppression of the ordinary persons, the masses. This Economics has invented a word: externality. An externality describes what the United States refers to, in its bombing campaigns, as fallout: collateral damage. So if a US drone goes on a killing mission against an Afghan elder, bombs him, or breaks his head or legs, and in the process an entire wedding party gets wiped out, these deaths are regarded as externalities, fallout, collateral damage. Classical economists, corporation heads, government leaders, the financial chiefs of banks, do the same when it comes to executing projects. Thus, for example, if the Government wishes to build a megaproject across thirteen communities, it will get a contractor costing for the highway. What is the cost of labour, aggregate, contractors fees, contractor’s time, demolition of property, legal fees, engineering fees, work preparation, etc? This is good. This is put onto the Government’s accounting books. These, as far as it is concerned, are the costs. But what are the other costs? The externalities? The cost of the destruction of already existing street connectivity? The costs of the dislocation, fragmentation, destruction of homes, cultural centers, community? The costs of the alienation of agricultural lands? The costs of destroying multi-billion dollar businesses and commercial networks? The

For all those who protest police exercises to find and prosecute criminals, let them be warned that they, or a loved one, could be the next victim, because criminals have no loyalty. The police should also prosecute, to the full extent of the law, all who support and protect those who prey on others, because they are no less culpable. Many are the beneficiaries of the criminal activities and share, in equal measure, the spoils of the predators, so they should also share in the punishment in equal measure. Guyanese, as a collective body, should support our security forces in their attempts to eradicate the criminal elements from the society and once more restore law and order, to the extent where citizens of, and visitors to, this country could walk the streets and enjoy the sanctuary of their homes unmolested and free from fear. For the criminal duo who met their Waterloo at the hands of the police while robbing the Lahago supermarket, and for all those who decide to live by the gun, they need to take cognisance that this course they choose must prepare them to also die by the gun. cost of the disruption of secure systems of land tenure and inheritance? The ecological costs to wetlands and mountain sides, the off-site impacts? The costs of flooding and flood relief? Like the extermination of the wedding party in Afghanistan, these costs are not factored into the Government’s costs. They are regarded as invisible: externalities. The concept of externality is a clever way of hiding theft and surplus wealth. Just as Marx calculated that surplus labour value goes to the masters to perpetuate the system of oppression; so too, the surplus gained from the undervaluing or non-evaluation of externalities goes to the financial, commercial, contracting, corporate and Government elites. What is made invisible, not accounted for, goes under the counter. In other words, the terms of trade and exchange are not fair. Externalities mean skimming. It often involves the monetization of invaluable social, economic, ecological and financial assets the better to distribute to the governing elites. That is how and why revolution and wars begin; with such fundamental inequities in the terms of trade, exchange and Market disequilibrium. That is why these elites must be perpetually called to account. Why we need an accounting revolution. Because elites will use surplus externality value to keep robbing the valued assets of the polity and the masses; and moreover use this surplus to continue to oppress them. WAYNE KUBLALSINGH

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

AFC not interested in partnering with APNU

NEGOTIATIONS are ongoing to actualize the Pro-Democracy Alliance proposed by Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Kemraj Ramjattan, at the recently concluded Party conference. Responding to a query from the media, Party Chairman, David Patterson advised that the AFC is to meet shortly with the Main Opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), and should be ready to report on progress within the next six weeks. Pressed to explain the difference between the AFC’s proposal and the APNU approach, Patterson said the latter’s proposal is a “big-tent” alliance for elections, while the AFC is seeking policy change. Asked at what stage is negotiations with

–wants to lead its own alliance

AFC’s David Patterson

the APNU, all Patterson said was they are to meet soon. He, however, was adamant that the AFC was not interested in becoming the eleventh partner in the 10-party APNU coalition. Ramjattan had announced at his Party’s delegates conference that the AFC was ready to lead a pro-democracy coalition aimed at removing the PPP/C Government from office. Questioned about other stakeholders approached to join the alliance, Patterson failed to name any, save to say that the media fraternity will be approached. Asked to comment on a report in the

Kaieteur News in which Granger was quoted as saying that he was not interested in that alliance, but in the APNU forming a Government of national unity, Patterson said he was advised by Granger that the reporter had misunderstood or misquoted him. With indications that general and regional elections will be held soon, both Opposition Parties in Parliament seem convinced that, individually, they are unable to present a strong challenge to the Ruling Party, and are showing interest in collating, but they both seem interested in leading the ticket.

Dr Luncheon: Georgetown municipal strike was ‘somewhat of a surprise’ HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon at his post-Cabinet press briefing stated that the onset of industrial action in the Georgetown municipality was essentially somewhat of a surprise to the Cabinet, and presumably to many of the citizens of Georgetown and rate-payers. These persons became aggrieved as they were affected by the consequences of the industrial action that primarily led to the closure of the municipal markets. He said that Cabinet was given an extensive report on the onset of the industrial action in the Georgetown municipality. He said that Cabinet viewed primarily the uniqueness of the resort to industrial action at the end of 2014, given that the year has seen minimum industrial action, whether in the public or private sector. Dr. Luncheon said that

by the close of Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, it seemed that saner heads were prevailing and the basis for the industrial action was being reviewed by the City Council, the union and officials of the Ministry of Labour. He noted that it was fortunate that concessions were made for vendors with perishable goods, to salvage their goods and the opening of all municipal markets on Wednesday reflected the cessation of all industrial action. The Head of the Presidential Secretariat said that the resort to industrial action, whether in the private or public sector, in the last part of 2014 has been a bit of rarity. He observed that strikes have not been easily resorted

to by the different factions involved in grievances and to that extent a strike in the municipality by workers is a bit of a consternation. He said that the strike resulted from the councillors seeking to link their demands for improved benefits as councillors with the local government officers’ request for the five percent increase that had been provided by the Guyana Labour Union organised workers. The council was initially adamant so the officers proceeded on strike. Dr Luncheon said that the Ministry of Local Government has since advised that the council has retreated and agreed that its demand should not be linked and should be dealt with separately and to grant

the five percent increases to the local government officers and they have in turn withdrawn from industrial action and reopened the municipal markets. Municipal workers in the city proceeded on strike on Monday closing all markets and other municipal facilities in the city, including its daycare facility. Vendors and citizens who tried to use these facilities were turned away as a result of the action.

Three accused in stepfather murder conspiracy to know fate today By George Barclay THIS afternoon a Demerara Assize jury trying the Windsor Forest stepfather murder conspiracy case will retire to consider whether the three accused are guilty or not of conspiring to kill their stepfather Motilall Singh. Prosecutrix Ms Mercedes Thompson and Ms Natasha Backer yesterday asked the jury to return a verdict in accordance with the evidence led and the oath they had taken. On the other hand, Senior Counsel Mr. Bernard De Santos defending Biby Shamiza Khan, called ‘Sham’, Hoosman Khan, also called ‘Strong Man’, and Bibi Farida Khan, called ‘Pum’, against the alleged murder of their stepfather Motilall Singh on 7th September, 2009, have requested a not guilty verdict on behalf of his clients. Mr. De Santos has also asked the jury to find that there is doubt in the prosecution’s case and the accused could be given the benefit of the doubt. He exhorted them to disbelieve the prosecution’s case which stated that the three accused carried out a plot by their mother in the USA who sent them over US$700 to hire a killer to murder her husband Motilall

Singh who was on a visit to Guyana. The plot, it is said, was carried out. Counsel also asked the jury to believe the defence that they did not make any confession statement as alleged by the police but the police took advantage of their ill condition from diabetes and not being able to read and write, handed them a paper to sign and they did not realize that they were signing to an alleged confession. According to the prosecution, on the early morning of September 7, 2009, Motilall was attacked and murdered. The doctor who performed the post-mortem recorded that he found 20 stab wounds on the body of the deceased. He concluded that death was caused by shock and haemorrhage due to multiple stab wounds. Replying to the defence claim that the deceased was attacked by masked bandits, the prosecution said that the nail to that lie was the fact that the gold rings still decorated the fingers of the murdered man; something robbers would not have left behind. Prosecutrix Thompson also told the jury that they had overwhelming evidence that they could use to come to a verdict of guilty. Justice Dawn Gregory will this morning begin her summation to the jury and then she would hand over the case to them for their consideration and verdict.

‘Whisky Man’ granted $50,000 bail on charge of simple larceny AN engineer of 27 Princess Street, Lodge, who apparently has a sophisticated taste for liquor, was yesterday placed on $50,000 bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan on a simple larceny charge. Lakeram Deonauth pleaded not guilty to the charge that said on December 17 at Sheriff Street,Campbellville, Georgetown, he stole one bottle

of Johnny Walker Black Label whisky valued $13,000 from Survival Supermarket. Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones told the court that the security guard held on to Deonauth at the door as he tried to escape and informed the court that the item was therefore recovered. The unrepresented man will make his next court appearance on January 5.

Man remanded for allegedly trafficking ‘ganja’ DWAYNE Gonsalves Venture, 40, was on Wednesday remanded to prison by Magistrate Ann McLennan for trafficking narcotics. The man who has no fixed place of abode denied that on Tuesday, December 16 at Christianburg, Wismar, Linden, he had in his possession 300 grammes of cannabis-sativa

(marijuana) for the purpose of trafficking. Gonsalves, who was unrepresented by counsel, told the court that he does not work. Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones did not reveal the prosecution’s facts and the case was transferred to the Linden court, for December 23.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Canje man charged with break-and-enter, larceny DARREN Schultz, 30 ,of Lot 9 Sandvoort Village, West Canje, Berbice, was on Wednesday placed on $150,000 bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan after pleading not guilty to the charge of break and enter and larceny. It is alleged that between August 17 and 18 at Kwakwani, Upper Berbice River, he broke and entered the store of Safi Samarai Eldorado Mining Company and stole one grease pump; four pairs truck cap shacks; six pairs of Caterpillar head Lamps; nine fuel pump elements; and eight welding rods among other items, together valued at $8.9 M. Representing Schultz was Attorney-at-Law, Ms. Konyo Sandiford Thompson,who managed to secure bail for client after stating that there is footage to show that Schultz was not part of the alleged offence. The defence counsel added that Schultz denied all allegations against him and is willing to comply with any conditions ordered by the court. Meanwhile, Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones did not oppose bail, but requested that bail should be substantial. The matter was transferred to the Kwakwani court for December 19.

‘El Presidente’ accused of fraudulent conversion A MAN said to be president of the forestry company, Emerald Forest Inc. was on Wednesday granted bail in the sum of $150,000 on two counts of fraudulent conversion. Jagdesh Mangal, 27 of Lot 51 Belmont, Mahaica,East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to both counts when it was read to him by Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates Court. The first count said that on November 22 at Lot 155 Kubari Street, Ituni, Upper Demerara River, being solely entrusted by Charlotte Wilson with the sum of $280,000, in order that he purchase one M931- A1 transformer case for a motor lorry, he converted the said cash to his own use and benefit. Particulars of the other count said that on November 12 at Robb Street, Georgetown, also being solely entrusted by Charlotte Wilson with the sum of $400,000, in order that he purchase one M931- A1 transformer case for a motor lorry, he converted the said cash to his own use and benefit. Representing Mangal was attorney-at-law Mr. Mohamed Zafar,who requested bail for the father of one stating that he already had been placed on $50,000 station bail. According to the defence counsel, his client has cooperated with the police throughout the investigation and strongly denied the allegation against him. Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones did not oppose bail on either count. As it relates to the offence allegedly committed in Ituni, the case was transferred t the Kwakwani court for January 16. The case pertaining to the second count allegedly committed in the city, will be heard before Magistrate Judy Latchman on January 8. However, Mangal was ordered to post $75,000 surety on each count.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

First Lady Foundation fetes over 350 Bartica children The children all excited with their Christmas presents (Photos by Adrian Narine)

First Lady, Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar greets the children of Bartica

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally MORE than 350 children of Bartica, Region 7, (CuyuniMazaruni), were given Christmas presents by the

First Lady Foundation as part of its annual children’s Christmas treat. First Lady, Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar visited the St John the Baptist Primary

School in the township, and in addition to gifts, shared snacks to the children. The children in turn entertained the First Lady with the singing of carols and the elves and helpers of the First

Lady Foundation sang carols, played games and danced with the children. As Santa appeared to assist the First Lady with the distribution of gifts, she noted that she was “very heartened to see the children having a lovely time at the party.” Speaking briefly with the children, she asked them if they were good to their parents and teachers this year, since, if they were not, they would not receive a present; the unanimous answer was “Yes Miss.” She

explained that even though this is the time of the year to enjoy themselves, it is very important to have a good education. While urging the children to attend school, Mrs Ramotar said: “With a good education, you can be good leaders and help to move our country forward.” She added, “Like you, my favourite time of the year is also the festive season of Christmas.” The First Lady, on behalf of His Excellency the President, Mr Donald Ramotar wished the

children a Very Merry Christmas and a Successful New Year. Mrs Ramotar and members of the Foundation are travelling countrywide to spread the Christmas spirit to children. According to the First Lady, the Foundation has visited Black Bush Polder in Region 6, and Linden in Region 10 on December 16. She revealed that the grand finale will be at State House in Georgetown on December 21, when the group will cater to 600 children.

Looking at electricity supply then and now THERE is not a single Guyanese, of matured age, who would have experienced those years of non-productivity, especially during the 1980s, and would not have remembered the numerous days and nights without power in their homes, and the serious socio-economic inconveniences that such prolonged periods of power outages would have wrought on their daily lives. Even businesses were impacted on, hampering their production, with many closing doors rather than endure continuous losses from an overburdened and decrepit service. Not even the famous barge,‘towed’ into Guyana by the then People’s National Congress’s senior minister responsible for Public Utilities, Robert Corbin, saved the day. After func-

tioning for a while, it caught fire. Fast forward twenty years, with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government in office, and the multi-billion that have been invested towards a modern power generation supply to Guyana. Therefore, to say that power supply has improved is an understatement – it is now four-fold in reliability and quality, although there are still a few issues. From the utterances of a particular section of the political Opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), there is both a gross lack of appreciation of what it has taken on the part of the PPP/C in terms of expenditure, to bring national power supply to the satisfactory levels it is at the moment; and, a further attempt at deliberately distorting what the Prime

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds

Opposition Leader David Granger

Minister said when he spoke at the commissioning of the $38.9 Ruimveldt sub-station on Wednesday. The Prime Minister, very analytically, explained the still high non-technical losses in certain areas of the City, which is a fact, and merely called on that particular Opposition party

which has a traditional support base in those areas, to urge that residents within those parameters do the right thing. And he is within his rights to make such a call, given his responsibility for such an important sector. The following section of the Prime Minister’s address at the commissioning

ceremony sums up his serious concern, and surely that of the Executive, at the reported 40% non- technical losses, which translates into an astronomical loss of revenue, because of consumer theft: “What I cannot bear at all is our losses on the non-technical side. I cannot bear that at all. I am totally embarrassed by it. We Guyanese are selling ourselves short. There may have been many reasons before, but it is time we change our view of (the) world and our view of the electricity sector in Guyana.” Any justice-minded Guyanese will support such a brutally frank assessment of this specific aspect on consumer obligation to the power sector. It is shocking that there are still Guyanese who believe, and will reason, that they ought not to pay for such a utility! Of course, such a fact is known to even

both political Opposition parties. APNU’S senior chieftain, Joseph Harmon’s statement about “GPL getting off the backs of the people of Guyana” can only be described as ill conceived, sending an entirely dangerous message to those who are involved in this serious illegality, the costs of which continue to impede further efforts at generating improved power supply. And for the Leader of the Opposition, David Granger, to describe Prime Minister Hinds’ statement as “plain stupid”, testifies to his continuous display of horrible shallowness as far as critical matters of national importance are concerned. Where is the “stigmatization and racism” that he is alleging? Finally, is not the Prime Minister entitled to speak on any issue that impact on the nation’s well-being?

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Christmas luncheon for Amerindians at Princes Street hostel

Amerindians at the Christmas Luncheon

AS Christmas draws closer, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai, in the spirit of the season, yesterday visited the Amerindian Hostel on Princes Street and joined with residents from interior locations in a Christmas lunch. She used the opportunity to wish them all the best for the festive season and committed the Ministry’s continued support and love for the indigenous people. Residents from various locations when they come to the city for medical treatment are usually accommodated at the hostel. “This is an annual event, which we all look forward to ….We would normally come and spend an hour or two with the patients, and the residents of

the hostel, we don’t often get to come here, so we always like to ensure that Christmas time, for those who are here, we would spend at least some time with them. “ The minister said she is aware that these individuals would rather be at home with their families and in better health during the festive season. However, “Everything is not perfect, and some of us will not always be very healthy; but that does not mean you should feel like no one cares for you or that you are not in our thoughts. You are in our thoughts.” Minister Sukhai added, “I am always happy to ensure that our people and the indigenous people benefit from the Government’s services. I think that is one of our main roles

and directly, the ministry has a number of roles and tasks assigned to us from the current Government, and we have been trying and putting a lot of effort into ensuring that our tasks and our mandate, as mandated to us by the Government, we try as far as possible to implement the programmes and to deliver the services.” She also noted that the infrastructure at the hostel is improving every year; however, it is Government’s desire to have it enhanced even further. “We would like it to be much better, and we are striving to ensure that the conditions improve every year, and not only the conditions, but we are also working to ensure that the human resource that is placed at this institute, this home here, and the resi-

‘Rubber Waist’ Jumo launches ‘gossip’ single today

Jumo Primo

SOCA sensation, Jumo Primo, nicknamed “Rubber Waist” will be launching his first song for 2015 today (Friday) titled “They like talk.” The 35-year-old said the song is about how some people who like to gossip about others when they do not even know anything about the person they are talking about; and it is a spin-off from his song “Nosy people.” The song was written by Primo, produced by Producer Keys and mixed

by Kross Colors Records. “They like Talk” will be launched on all local airwaves today as well as on facebook, bbm, youtube, twitter and there will be a sneak preview on instagram. The two-time Soca Monarch who also placed second one year said a video for “They like talk” is in the making, plus he has a surprise in store for Mashramani 2015. He said the song is especially for Mashramani.

Minister of Amerindian Affair, Pauline Sukhai shares a light moment with ladies at the Amerindian hostel

dents, they too improve their level of interaction with those who come here. We understand that they may not be able to give you everything that you are accustomed to when you are at home, but we would like to know that as long as they are here, working with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, that they are serious about delivering the services that the Government continues to provide, so that our people and patients and those who come to this residence can feel comfortable.” Minister Sukhai noted that the administration is trying its best to improve its services and the lives of its people in general, but has been faced with constraints which have set back Amerindian development. “We

had many difficulties when our budget was not approved and it had effects not only here, but in the villages. Fortunately our Government did not stand idly by and allow funds to be curtailed from the indigenous sector.” Minister Sukhai, highlighting some of the Ministry’s upcoming plans, said, “We are hoping that in 2015 we will be able to deliver on most of those requests (those that were brought forward at the National Toshaos Council meeting), to ensure that villagers and their villages continue to receive the level of support from this Government, that will match the village potential to move forward in developing the various sectors in their communities.”

She informed that, “We are embarking on a very important project whereby we have completed the titling of the remaining villages that are eligible for titling, and we have proceeded with demarcation of another eight communities, and we are already speaking to villages in respect of their extension application,” she noted. In closing, the minister said, “I want to wish you, the patients, full recovery, and those who are spending time here … from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, all the staff and those that are here, we stand by you in your recovery and the very best for the season, until you go to your respective villages and to your families.” (GINA)

‘Blue Christmas’ for castnet thief

A FIFTY-five-year-old man who allegedly stole castnets was on Tuesday sentenced to two months imprisonment after facing city Magistrate Annett Singh on a charge of larceny. Deonarine Singh, no ad-

dress given, pleaded guilty to the charge,details of which stated that between December 2 to 5 at Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, he stole three castnets valued at $28,000, property of Shivdat Ramesh Rahgoo . Police Prosecutor Adon-

ni Innis informed the court that the items stolen by the defendant had been recovered. The magistrate denied the defendant his pre-trial liberty, as a result of which he will spend time in prison over the holidays.

Logger bailed for allegedly inflicting grievous bodily harm By Geeta Rampersaud CEDRIC Johnson, 42, (no address given) was yesterday placed on $75,000 bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan after pleading not guilty to inflicting

grievous bodily harm. It is alleged that the logger inflicted grievous bodily harm to Dwayne Reid on August 23 at Wornama Village, Upper Berbice River. Police Prosecutor Dine-

ro Jones did not oppose bail for Johnson; however, he informed the court that both parties work with the same company. The matter was transferred to the Kwakwani court for January 16.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Minister of Health declares...

‘Guyana’s continental destiny is growing’

– as Argentina, Guyana seek to foster closer ties By Shivanie Sugrim IN order to foster bilateral along with triangular technical cooperation projects in Guyana, the Argentine Embassy on Wednesday staged a cocktail reception in pursuit of enhancing partnership between the countries through the Argentine Fund for SouthSouth and Triangular Cooperation (FO.AR). Through this Fund, the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs finances and develops bilateral and triangular technical cooperation projects by means of partnership and collaboration as well as mutual support mechanisms. In its 20 years of existence, the FO.AR has received over 6,000 requests for technical cooperation in areas in which Argentina has vast experience: cattle, agriculture, farming, food security, health, education, labour, productive development, administration, human rights and democratic governance. COLLABORATIVE BOND As such, Argentina is

aiming to have a more collaborative bond with Guyana to enhance Guyana in every sector. The event staged at the Cara Lodge Hotel saw a small gathering, including Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsarran, Argentine Ambassador to Guyana Luis A Martino, Chairman of the Protected Areas Commission Damian Fernandez and Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Mark Phillips. Dr. Ramsarran, in his opening remarks, stated that this initiative will ideally provide an exchange of resources, technology and knowledge between developing countries like Guyana. He noted that the Argentine Government is quite active in Guyana’s health sector, emphasizing their recent intervention that saw a number of staff undergoing training in Argentina to reinforce proper health care to Guyanese. “We have decided to partner with Argentina through the South-South Cooperation project to open a blood bank in Guyana to cater specifically for pregnant women,” stated Minister Ramsarran.

He added that this proposal is not confirmed but plans are in place to make it a reality. Moreover, in relation to Guyana’s continental neighbours, Minister Ramsarran said that Guyana will now be partnering with them given that they are further developed and can assess matters that Guyana would need assistance with. Meanwhile, the Argentine Ambassador to Guyana in delivering the keynote address, underscored that his country regards its foreign policy as highly significant since it preserves and defends the sovereignty, alongside the interests of the state as well as civil rights, at both the regional and global levels. HORIZONTAL COOPERATION “Cooperation should be horizontal with our countries partnering to work together and identify the most appropriate strategies and policies to satisfy our mutual needs and to overcome the challenges posed by our development as sovereign states,” stated the Ambassador. He then provided in-

Argentine Ambassador to Guyana, Mr Luis A Martino and Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsarran at the cocktail reception at Cara Lodge Wednesday evening

sights into the importance of the South-South Cooperation, given that it provides international cooperation for development as well as opportunities for developing countries and countries that pose economies in transition in their individual and collective

pursuit of sustained economic growth and sustainable development. Throughout the last decade Argentina’s SouthSouth Cooperation has received tremendous improvement in the quality and number of projects. Argentina has been

constantly in the quest of developing guidelines of cooperation at a bilateral level with a number of Guyanese agencies and institutions after the reopening of the embassy in 2011 in Georgetown. Moreover, over the past five years bilateral projects in Guyana and Argentina have been a success in the tourism, culture, defence, foreign policy and health sectors. As such, both countries are at present working on new projects such as the blood bank and they are also targeting culture and sport. The ambassador also noted that his commitment in enhancing Guyana through the FO.AR initiative will forever be at its peak in ensuring that the goals of Guya n e s e i n s t i t u t i o n s a re achieved.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

UG honours 27 long-serving employees ed much of his own success at the university to the awardees and expressed his appreciation to them for their years of dedicated service and years of hard work. “We are sitting here as a unit, as a family to be a part of a ritual…however with far more substance that a ritual tends to mark over time. What we do can only be seen as a token and symbolic of being done from the heart with sincerity.” The significance of the occasion was underscored by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr Barbara Reynolds, who asserted

that: “The significance of the occasion is important to all of those belonging to UG, in the context of which UG operates, financially and logistically as it requires dedication, tenacity and a great deal of optimism to provide quality service to the University and by extent the country.” While the awardees could not receive a “Golden handshake”, the ceremony nonetheless paid respect and gave recognition from the university, particularly the staff, to their colleagues for a job well done. Emeritus Professor Winston McGowan, in his feature address to the gathering com-

mended the awardees for their contribution to the university, as it took more than time, it entailed endurance, fortitude, personal sacrifice and above all, commitment. He highlighted the turmoil the university has trudged through and by extension its staff. During the 70s, Professor McGowan said,the university moved through a period of political turbulence,when even a great scholar such as Dr Walter Rodney was denied employment at the institution. The staff were congratulated on their patriotism and loyalty, “You didn’t have to stay, you chose to stay.”

Long-serving staffer, Lorainne McLeod receives her award from Vice-Chancellor Jacob Opadeyi

By Raveena Mangal THE University of Guyana (UG) honoured enduring staff members at its annual Long Service Awards ceremony held recently at the Education Lecture Theatre on the Turkeyen campus. The 27 Long Service Awardees included Dr Paulette Bynoe of the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences (SEES); Ms Leila Carrington of the University Library; Ms Nicole Grant of the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS); and others with over 20 years of service. Staffers who have served

the university for over 25 years include Bernadette Ageday from the Faculty of Agriculture, and Hamawatie Singh of the Facilties Maintainance Department. Those who have been a part of the university’s family for over 30 and 35 years are Rayman Khan, Centre for Information Technology; Jacueline Morris, the Bursury; Michela Cumberbatch of the Registry and Cherryl Edinboro,the University Library, among others. The ceremony, themed: “Serving UG with our Hearts” was chaired by UG Registrar Vincent Alexander; he attribut-

A section of the gathering at the ceremony

Emeritus Professor, Winston McGowan addresses the gathering

He encouraged them to reflect on the positives they have gained during their long years of service, and to take stock of their creative skills developed, noting that they have done things better endowed universities could not have, as they did not face the challenges the staffers have. The University of Guyana in 1990, in recognition of the enabling qualities of members of staff, introduced its important annual calendar of activity, singling out members who have completed 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of dedicated service to the university community. The gathering was entertained through performances by the National School of Dance, Ossie Nedd, Heart and Soul for Excellence and a dance interpretation by Dr. Seeta Shaw-Roath, done by the Aurora Performers.

GECOM’s seventh cycle of continuous registration successful so far – PRO By Ravin Singh

THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) seventh cycle of continuous registration is going “excellently,” GECOM’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Richard Francois has revealed. The seventh cycle of continuous registration commenced on November 30th and will allow persons the opportunity to register for the first time, conduct transfers and make changes to their registration details. According to Francois, the exercise is one which has seen much progress as 3,116 new registrants have been added to the National Register of Registrants (NRR). Of these,

GECOM’s PRO Richard Francois

he assured that 95.8 per cent has been verified, with the remaining 4.2 per cent to be thoroughly examined. As it relates to the total number of transfers recorded in this seventh cycle, the PRO disclosed that the amount was some

550 transfers with 611 total changes also recorded. Though he could not have confirmed a total amount for the NRR to date, Francois gave the assurance that the ongoing process is one which is transparent and has been successful to date. To this extent, he sought to encourage those who have not been registered to do so at the soonest possible time. At the end of the sixth cycle of continuous registration, in the latter part of June, there were registrations of some 14,981 new persons, 14,942 of whom have already been verified. There were also 2,004 transfers, owing to issues related to changes of address, and 2,747 changes/corrections to

existing registration information. GECOM has advised that persons wishing to make use of the continuous registration process must be in possession of the relevant source documents as might be necessary to support their applications for registration. These are original birth certificate issued by the General Register Office or a valid Guyana Passport; original marriage certificate (and original birth certificate) – in the case of a name change by way of marriage; original deed poll and original birth certificate – in the case of any change of name by deed poll; and original naturalisation certificate issued by the Home Affairs Ministry and original birth certificate/valid passport – in

the case of naturalisation. Evidence (photocopy/duplicate) of an application having been made for naturalisation will not be accepted.

NOT ACCEPTABLE Baptismal certificates, expired passports, photocopies of relevant documents or letters from priests, elders, headmasters, village captains/ toshaos and Justices of the Peace or existing ID cards will not be acceptable as source documents for registration. Persons who were already registered could, if necessary, apply for a name change in the case of the change of name(s) by marriage or deed poll, since they were registered; or apply for correction(s) if there is incorrect information on their Na-

tional ID cards; or apply for a transfer if they have changed their addresses since they were last registered. Additionally, persons who are already registered could request that their photographs be re-taken if the quality of the photograph on their ID cards is unacceptable, or collect their new ID cards if they have not done so as yet. GECOM has 28 permanent registration offices located in the 10 administrative regions. Persons are required to visit the registration office that is responsible for the registration of persons in their area of residence to apply for registration or uplift their National Identification Card if they were previously registered and have not done so as yet.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Girl, 9, two adults chopped to death at Tuschen – reputed wife critical

By Michel Outridge

THE quietude of the countryside community of Tuschen, on the East Bank Essequibo was shattered early Thursday morning when loud screams roused residents as a canecutter broke into the house of his reputed wife and chopped three persons to death, including a child. Dead are nine-year-old Ashley Boodhoo, her maternal grandmother Bibi Zalima Kahn, 55, and a man identified as Floyd Drakes, 30. Ashley’s mother, Geeta Boodhoo, 30, who happens to be the assailant’s reputed wife,was injured in the fracas, and is now hospitalised in a critical condition. According to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corpo-

ration (GPHC) Boodhoo underwent surgery for multiple stab and chop wounds; she was up to press time listed as critical. Police reported that at about 00:30 hours on December 18, 2014, Boodhoo’s reputed husband, who has been identified as Joshua Franklin, smashed his way into her Phase Two, Tuschen New Housing Scheme home through a glass window, and severely chopped whoever happened to be in sight. Up to the press time, the suspect had not yet been arrested. The body of Floyd Drakes, an upholsterer by profession, was found in a clump of bushes in the yard yesterday morning, while those of Ashley Boodhoo and her grandmother were found in the house.

Reports are that Drakes tried to escape, but was pursued and fatally chopped by an enraged Franklin, who has since gone into hiding. Three other children, including twins, escaped the attack uninjured after they hid under beds in the modest wooden two-bedroom house. Residents told this publication that Geeta Boodhoo and her reputed husband had separated as a result of domestic problems, and he was not residing with her. However, her mother recently moved to the location to assist with the children, because Boodhoo was working as a waitress at a bar at Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara. Neighbours say they were awakened by loud screams by the children yesterday

The window Joshua Franklin broke to gain entry to the house via the verandah (Photos by Sonell Nelson)

morning, but did not venture outside because the area in which they live is very dark and desolate at nights, and they felt that there was an armed robbery next door. One man said he only learnt there was an incident when police showed up at his neighbour’s house, and even then, he did not go over because in the area the few persons who reside there keep to themselves. According to residents, Franklin showed up at the residence occupied by his reputed wife, children and her mother and became enraged when he peeped into the house and saw his wife with Floyd Drakes in a compromising position. He then broke the louvre window by the verandah and entered the house and

launched the cutlass attack. Inside the house yesterday, it was evident that something terrible had taken place since there were pools of dried blood in the small living room, where it seems there was a party since beer bottles among other things were there and the bedrooms were ransacked. Blood was everywhere inside the house, and on the verandah, the steps, in the yard and on the bridge. Neighbours say they saw Ashley Boodhoo scrubbing the wooden steps yesterday, and she like her other siblings did not attend school regularly and often roamed the village unsupervised. The surviving children were taken to the Leonora Police Station where arrangements were being made

to hand them over to relatives of their mother, who is hospitalised while the suspect, Joshua Franklin’s son, who resides in a cottage in the same yard was assisting police with investigations yesterday. Many residents expressed shock at the incident, but some said there was always some fight or quarrel at the home, and Geeta Boodhoo had a restraining order against Franklin following a fight when he moved out of the house. Others said Franklin was the sole bread winner of the home, and provided for the woman and her children before they separated; but they were in reconciliation talks recently, until he got wind that she was seeing someone else.

The house where the triple murder took place

Minister Edghill lights up Christmas for – heading to Linden today to fete Buxton single mother dozens of pensioners MINISTER within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill yesterday brought bright smiles to the face of a mother of four of Buxton, Andrena Moses, whom he presented with a gas stove and a Christmas hamper. The woman, who once served in the Guyana Police Force, is now self-employed and cares for four children, the eldest of whom is 16. Moses said she sells beverages and

snacks for a living so she can take care of her children. She also likes cooking, she said, so the stove was presented to her after an assessment of her needs was done by Minister Edghill and his staff. Moses said three months ago, she met the Minister while he was in the field on official business, and she explained that she was going through terrible hardships.

She said the Minister immediately encouraged her to visit his office, but each time she did, he was either out at meetings or out of the country. Not giving up, the woman returned to the Minister’s office on Wednesday and asked to see him, but again, he was not available. He was however kind eough to return a call to her on a number she’d left at his office. The nature of the call,

Minister Edghill and two members of staff pose with some of the hampers to be distributed today in Region 10

according to her, was for her to revisit the office and she hurried over to the Ministry of Finance. Minister Edghill, when asked to comment, said he really did not remember meeting the woman, especially since it was in the field and might have been when he was meeting with dozens of other citizens. The Minister said that the Turnt to page 15 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Security officer faces No eggs, poultry damage-to-property shortage expected charge Poultry Association assures public…

this Christmas

THERE is not expected to be a shortage of eggs or other poultry products, a common concern around this time of the year, according to Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy. In an invited comment, he told the Guyana Chronicle that the Guyana Poultry Producers Association has given an assurance that

there will be no shortage, since supplies for the local market are expected to remain steady. Earlier in the year there were shortfalls which led to a brief shortage of chicken in the country. However, two months ago, Dr. Ramsammy stated that the Government will be taking action now to ensure that consumers do

not have issues with high prices during the Christmas season. “We are working to ensure that there isn’t a shortage or significant increase in prices during that time,” he said, when asked then. Producers usually look forward to December, which sees the highest consumption of eggs and other poultry products.

Fire-starter businessman granted bail A BUSINESSMAN who was accused of starting a fire in a man’s yard was on Monday morning released on bail when he appeared before Magistrate Annett Singh. Christopher Eleazar, 36,

of Lot 80 Stone Avenue, Campbellville, denied the allegation that on December 14 at Stone Avenue, Georgetown, he started a fire in Andrew Waldron’s yard with intent to insult or annoy him.

P o l i c e P r o s e c u t o r, Adonni Innis did not object to the defendant’s pre-trial liberty and bail was granted in the sum of $10,000. The matter was then adjourned until January 15, 2015.

Walton Hall farmer collapses, dies “SEERAM”, a 55-yearold farmer/businessman of Walton Hall village, Essequibo Coast, collapsed and died while walking along the Hampton Court public road on Monday afternoon. He had reportedly been riding a bicycle en route to visit some relatives when,

at about 17:00 hrs, he began to feel unwell, stopped riding and started walking before he suddenly collapsed and died at the roadside. A large crowd quickly gathered around him, and many tried to help, but it was too late. Seeram’s lifeless body was picked up by his broth-

er and other relatives and taken to the Suddie hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. Known to be a very quiet, law-abiding citizen, Seeram lost his wife about three months ago. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

Minister Edghill lights...

From page 14

donation to the single mother would go a far way to assist her in developing herself as she seems passionate to do so. He said that after listening to her he decided that it was more appropriate to give the woman the gas stove and hamper rather than cash which he initially considered. Meanwhile, Minister Edghill will today be heading to the mining town of Linden along with his staff, where they are expected to spread cheer to approximately 100 senior citizens with the distribution of Christmas hampers. In addition, the Minister, through his ministry, will be issuing toys to children in the region. He reminded that the distribution would not just be for Central Linden but in communities along the Berbice River and other areas in the region. The hampers and toys were in part sponsored by Impressions and the Miss Moses received her stove and Christmas hamper from Minister Edghill yesterday Qualfon Guyana Call Centre.

S E C U R I T Y o f f i c e r, James McAlmont, 44, w a s o n We d n e s d a y slapped with the charge of damage to property when he appeared before city Magistrate Annett Singh. It is alleged that McAlmont, of 1269 Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara, between January 1 and

December 11, 2014 at Georgetown, unlawfully and maliciously damaged 16 glass windows valued at $100,000, being the movable property of a private nature of the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA). The unrepresented man pleaded not guilty to the said charge, explaining to the court that

it was a matter of life and death. He later told the court that since the incident he was told to stay at the local night shelter. In the absence of any objections by Police Prosecutor, Adonni Innis, Magistrate S i n g h re m a n d e d t h e defendant until January 6, 2015.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

PPP again voices concern over Transparency International’s credibility

THE credibility of Transparency International (TI) has once more come under scrutiny, with General-Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Clement Rohee, pointing out that the body’s evidence base is weak. “The report is strong on perception of corruption, but weak in evidence. The persons who provide informa-

tion are, in the main, known critics of the Government, including some with political axes to grind against the PPP and the PPP/C administration,” he said Monday, adding: “It is no secret that Transparency International is driven by an Opposition agenda, and has been peddling canned and recycled stuff year after year, which has now become

something of a mantra.” TI’s admission, with regard to its methodology in compiling the report, has not served it well in debunking the mounting criticisms, at both regional and international levels, which continue to be laid at its doorstep. One of several examples of TI’s questionable methodology is premised on the fact that Guyana has signed and

ratified the Inter-American Convention against Corruption, as well as the United Nations Convention against Corruption, and is subject to reviews by both groups. H o w e v e r, c o u n t r i e s such as Barbados have been ranked above Guyana in TI 2014 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), despite the fact that it is not bound by any of these Treaties.

Barbados signed on to the Inter-American Convention against Corruption in 2001, but is yet to ratify it, which means that it is not bound by the stipulations of the Convention. Guyana signed the same Convention in 1996 and ratified it in 2000. As recently as June 16, 2011, Guyana had designated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as its central authority to deal with matters related to the Inter-American Convention against Corruption. Under its obligation, Guyana had is first review in 2006, the second in 2008, and the third in 2011. In September 2011, when the third-round review of all the countries was completed, the committee decided that the fourth round will include visits to countries, as well as a follow-up on the implementation of the recommendations that were made during the first-cycle review in 2006. As it relates to the United Nations Convention against

Corruption, the areas addressed include prevention, criminalization, international cooperation and asset recovery. Guyana signed on to the Convention in 2003 and ratified it in 2008. Barbados also signed the Convention in 2003, but is yet to ratify it. Under this Convention, some of the obligations are mandatory. ADDRESSING CORRUPTION Guyana has taken steps to address the issue of corruption. By becoming party to the two anti-corruption conventions, the country has undertaken obligations and expectations for the enactment of the standards and rules that are central to both conventions. TI’s report, released recently, sees Guyana ranked 124th, with 30 points. Last year, Guyana was ranked 27th, one place up from the 28th spot in 2012. This year’s index includes 175 countries and territories.

Bloated body of epileptic man found in neighbour’s backyard By Leroy Smith ON Tuesday evening, relatives of 24-year-old longshoreman, Alex Sobers, of 29 West La Penitence found his bloated body in the backyard of a neighbour, three days after he was last seen and reported missing. Sobers’ body, which was in the early stages of decomposition, was found head down in a trench, while the lower extremities were resting on land. His mother, Samantha Leitch, told the Guyana Chronicle Wednesday afternoon that she was not even aware her son was missing for the past three days, as she does not live at the West La Penitence address with him. She learnt of the development on Tuesday afternoon when a resident of the area showed up at her stand asking if they had found her son. Leitch said her son works at the John Fernandes Wharf, but recently he had been working at another wharf as that one is under construction. According to the woman, her son would suffer seizures from time to time and collapse in drains along the roadway and at times

in the burial ground, among other places. She said too that they visited the police outpost to make a missing person report and shortly after she received a call from someone who said that they had seen the man walking in his briefs into the yard of a neighbour on Saturday. The woman quickly returned to the area and called out at the gate of the neighbour and informed him that her son might have been trapped somewhere in his yard but he denied although the woman said she was getting a stench, which the man said was a ‘crappo’ (crapaud) that he had killed. The woman said that she told the man that a “crappo” does not smell like that and she rushed past him and began searching the backyard where she found her son, lying dead between a pit latrine and a coconut tree. The police were called in and the owner of the place was told that a post-mortem would be conducted on the body tomorrow. The neighbour could be arrested if the post-mortem report indicates that the man had suffered any form of violence.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

IT specialist named ‘Best Cop 2014’

By Leroy Smith POLICE Inspector Jermaine Johnson was named the Guyana Police Force Best Police Officer for 2014 at the annual police awards ceremony held at the Tactical Service drill square on Wednesday. Johnson, who is attached to the Information Technology Department, is responsible for the overall man-

agement of the data centre. He joined the force as a constable at the age of 18 in 1992 and worked his way up to his present rank, serving first in the communications department and later being transferred to the IT department when it was established in 2008. Among his responsibilities are the management of the border management system, automatic finger

printing system, advanced information system, local network and the technical programming of the force’s radio system. He received his certification in information technology from internationally recognised institutions in Russia, Trinidad and other places. REWARDS Johnson was also re-

Best Cop, Inspector Jermaine Johnson receives one of his two incentives from Assistant Commissioner of Police, Winston Cosbert (Photos by Sonell Nelson)

warded $150,000 as the best divisional cop while for his achievement of being overall best cop for 2014, he received $250,000 from the Guyana Police Force. Moreover, Private Sector Commission member, Captain Gerry Gouveia rewarded the cop with a trophy and a trip for two to either Aruba or the United States. Meanwhile, Cadet Officer Jermine Dufu of the

Police ‘B’ Division achieved the second runner-up award for Best Cop 2014. For that achievement he received $200,000, a plaque and a trip to an overseas destination. Dufu has been serving the force for the past five years. Other ranks were awarded for their exceptional performance in the areas of gun and ammunition seizures, successful prosecutions,

general effective policing and skillful investigations into murders, carjacking and other offences. The Guyana Police Force has expended $13.5 million in awards and incentives as part of its Annual Awards Ceremony, compared to $12.3 million which was handed out in July this year at the Police Anniversary Awards ceremony.

Cadet Officer, Jermine Dufu receives his incentive for being the second runner-up Best Cop

MCYS had remarkable year with its museums MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony, has highlighted the remarkable year the ministry has had with regard to the museums under its umbrella, at a press briefing held in the ministry’s boardroom last week. Museums under the ministry, inclusive of the National Museum, the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology and the Museum of African Heritage, hosted a number of exhibitions. The National Museum hosted approximately seven exhibitions, a novel number for the museum. Earlier in the year, the National Museum in its bid to increase interest among youths and children in the institution, launched a successful digitalisation project

by installing a touch-screen monitor, which provides instant background for any of the artifacts found in the museum. Additionally, the museum continued with its schooloutreach programme, for which approximately 104 schools have signed up; the programme entails varying artifacts being taken to the schools for incorporation into their curriculum. The minister further related that The Anthropology Museum gained an Akawaio Funerary figurine from a miner; it is estimated to be about 2000 years old. Additionally, the museum has been very involved in further archaeology in Guyana, with Boise State University and our own archaeology programme at the University

of Guyana engaging in studies at Warapana. A MOU was signed with the University of Florida which has explored and will further explore the raised mounds found in the Berbice River area that have been dated to about 3000-4000 BC. A very successful workshop on Ancient Ceramics by Dr Issac Stern was done at the museum. Stern, from the University of Florida, also created 3D maps of the Berbice River areas where the mounds are located. Social anthropology was pursued by Dr George Mentore and his students who studied different Amerindian villages. Linguistic studies were also done by the ministry with regard to the publishing of seven dictio-

The Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology on Main Street

naries with the languages of seven different Amerindian tribes. More dictionaries for the remaining dialects are currently being put together. Digitalisation is being

done, as well, at the Walter Rodney Archives (the National Archives). The ministry has completed a project to input 9000 Indentureship records. The second phase

is now being completed, and it entails uploading pictures of the records. It aims to allow persons to access names and information of their ancestors.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Joint Services to get an extra month’s salary – President announces at GDF luncheon THE men and women who serve in the nation’s Joint Services are to receive an extra month’s salary, President Donald Ramotar, announced when he addressed hundreds of soldiers at Camp Stephenson, Timehri, yesterday as they participated in their annual Christmas luncheon. The President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Joint Services, noted that it was his first visit to the base and said he hopes to visit other locations. He said that development is not possible without security, hence the Guyana Defence Force’s) role is central to this. Mention was made of the fact that training was more than just being physically fit, as he welcomed the news that ranks were embarking on more training courses to equip themselves in various skills. Government, President Ramotar said, is committed to equipping ranks with more “modern tools”, with

which to do their jobs. As he referred to recent terror attacks and mass killings in Pakistan and Mexico, he insisted that security is not just about securing borders; “It seems to me that more and more, we have to build cooperation between the forces in the security sector and be able to come to each other’s assistance from time to time”, he said. Government has invested much in the military and there are a lot of skilled ranks, the President pointed out, “Therefore it seems to me it would be a waste if we do not use those resources to strengthen other areas in our security sector….this is part of the whole general thrust of securing our nation so that we can develop and move forward”. The need to build the local economy was also stressed by the President, so that among other benefits, the army would be able to be well-equipped with

what is needed for a modern force. Guyana has seen the rebuilding of some of its infrastructure, but more and new ones are needed to “open the possibility for more rapid economic growth”. These projects, he said, included the hydro electricity dam, a deep water harbour and an expanded international airport. Concluding his address to the officers and other ranks, President Ramotar urged them to continue to uphold the good name of the GDF, even though some, a minute group, may seek to “soil the name” of the organisation. He reminded those gathered that their job is to serve the people and country, “and it is in service that we will bring glory to the name of this organisation”. Addressing his ranks, Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips said that 2014 was a good year for the military, noting that Base Camp Stephenson is the main operating staging and training

President Donald Ramotar sharing a light moment with ranks of the Guyana Defence Force at Camp Stephenson

base. Ranks have trained hard and conducted more courses than in many previous years, he added. The GDF head congratulated the Air Corps which, he said, managed to keep its SkyVan aircraft airborne, thus effecting savings of approximately $20M. The Coast Guard also received special mention for

maintaining the seaworthiness of the vessel, the GDF Essequibo, over the year. Brigadier Phillips said that the GDF is the people’s army, and will work under the strategic direction of the President in a multi-agency approach with other joint services. He also assured the President of the GDF’s com-

mitment to the defence and security of Guyana, particularly as the upcoming general and regional elections are due to occur. The occasion saw the Commander-in-Chief joining senior officers and ranks to serve meals to junior ranks and interact with them. (GINA)

Anna Regina Town Council gets computer gift – from overseas-based Guyanese UNDER management of the IMC, the Anna Regina Town Council has received a much-needed computer from US-based Guyanese Mr Dindyal Narine. This computer was reportedly requested by Councillors Harry Persaud and Abrahim Baksh of the Interim Management Committee [IMC] after the council had reported at a statutory meeting that there was need for computers in the finance section and the municipal treasurer’s office. The Councillors immediately set to work to seek assistance from kind-hearted Guyanese overseas to make a donation to the Town Council. Mr Abrahim Baksh, who presented the computer to the council on behalf of Mr Dindyal Narine last Friday, said the overseas-based Guyanese, who is his relative, responded very quickly to

the request for a computer for the council. Mr Baksh said that having the computer would greatly assist employees in the finance section with their work. He expressed gratitude to Mr. Narine for the donation, and the hope that more kind-hearted Guyanese overseas, and large businesses in Guyana, would come forward and help the Anna Regina Town Council to computerise its operations, especially its rates and taxes section. In this technological age, the council is still using some large ledgers to compile rates and taxes accounts. Region 2 Chairman Mr Parmanand Persaud, who witnessed the presentation, also thanked the overseas-based Guyanese for giving back to his community and country. He called on employees of the finance section to

IMC Councillor Abrahim Baksh handing over the computer to Chairman of the IMC, Mr Toolsie Narine in the Anna Regina Town Council Boardroom

care the computer and use it to enhance the work of the council. On behalf of the Council, IMC Chairman Mr Toolsie

Narine thanked Mr. Dindyal Narine for the donation of the computer, and said the council is desperately in need of more computers

to upgrade its operation. He, also, echoed a call for more such donations from kind-hearted persons. To w n C l e r k D i a n a

Critchlow also thanked the overseas-based Guyanese for the computer. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

TEL : 616-0301/ 699-6156

Raveena Mangal is second ‘Holiday Dream Girl’

Raveena Mangal

A hottie from the media has exploded to the top to be named as our second ‘Holiday Dream Girl’ this week. She is the very sexy Raveena Mangal, a saucy and tempting lass who has brought new affirmation to the statement that ‘Media gyals can also be downright irresistible…’ You divas still have one more week to be selected

Carlsberg Fever to be at high tide on the Westside

GEORGETOWN folks would have already gotten their feel of the ‘Carlsberg Beer Experience’ on so many occasions that they have left their counterparts in the West Demerara District green with envy. Come on now, Westsiders. Stop the complaining. Southland International Inc has your interest at heart and, as such, is bringing the ‘Carlsberg Treat’ right to your doorstep. Stay attuned folks, and be sure to grab a copy of the Bombshell for updates. When the ‘Carlsberg Westside Fantasia’ begins, it will

unfurl at places like Mark and Fathead Bars (Parika Junction), Lance Bar (Parika Old Road), Pink’s Shop (Greenwhich Park), Nicholas Bar (Tuschen), Kajoe’s Sports Bar (Pouderoyen), and at Burns Bar (Tuschen) Other locations will include Double Day Hotel& Bar and Carolyn’s Bar, and Billy’s Bar in Tuschen, Clint’s Bar (Vreeden-Hoop), the Aracari Resort (Versailles), and at Club Harmony (Parfaite Harmony) where it will be available all day. Then it’s more Carlsberg Fever at the Hibiscus Bar at Middle Street, Georgetown from 10 to 11 pm. Come tomorrow, the fun heads to Seeram’s Bar at Alexander Village, Georgetown from 7-8 pm, thence to the Blu Martini Club at Lamaha Street, Georgetown from 9-10 pm. Gravity Lounge will also be having its Carlsberg moment at the said time. On Sunday, December 21, all roads lead to the Carlsberg Happy Hour at the Aracari Resort (Versailles, West Bank, Demerara) from 3-4 pm. Mark well: at this time the Westside divas will be showcasing their hottest swimsuits at the Carlsberg Beer Pool Party. Kajoe’s Bar also has an offer of Carlsberg Beers (3 for $1000) all day, while the same offer exists at Sharon’s Bar (Sophia Bus Park, Georgetown). Come on dudes. Here is your chance to savour the golden drink of the century, and mingle with the provocative, sexy Carlsberg models.

The Happy Hour Saga MEANWHILE, the Carlsberg Crew would like to announce that today(6-7pm), the Happy Hour commences at Seepaul’s Bar in Kitty, Georgetown, and at Seeta’s

Bar (Station Street, Kitty) from 8-9 pm. Then it’s more Carlsberg Fever at the Hibiscus Bar at Middle Street, Georgetown from 10 to 11 pm.

Come tomorrow, the fun heads to Seeram’s Bar at Alexander Village, Georgetown from 7-8 pm, thence to the Blu Martini Club at Lamaha Street, Georgetown from 9-10 pm.

as our third dream girl before the ‘2014 Dream Girl’ is declared. You hotties out there can also call phone numbers 616-0301 or 699-6156 to have your ‘dream girl photos’ submitted… Or you can send your pics and particulars to runwaydiva723@gmail.com Make sure you are in da mix next Friday when Bombshell serves up the anticipated accolades.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

When Bombshell rolls out the accolades… Roger Callendar demolishes field to be crowned ‘Hottest Dude of 2014’ IT was a gruelling task to select Bombshell’s ‘Dude of the Year’. I mean, come on folks: the lineup of ‘succulent’ male morsels certainly had the panel of female judges salivating, and everyone had their favourite pick. However, the only man who succeeded in unleashing an intoxicating serving of virile masculinity, raunchy sexiness, smashing good looks, and irresistible allure was the impressive Roger Callendar, who is no stranger to the runway or the entertainment fraternity. He whisked away the coveted title from hotties like our very own Rawle Toney, singer Kishaun D o o b a y, E s s e q u i b o ’s Christopher Boyer, fashion designers Tyrone Nelson, Andres Garib, and Ronald Ramsaroop, to name a few. Well done boss… You are a sure winner!

Esther Osborne declared ‘Hottest Babe’ for 2014

H E g re a t e s t d i f ficulty by far was to determine which lucky girl would be crowned ‘Hottest Babe for 2014’. I mean, these girls were all so scorching they just made my teeth sweat. But, you see folks, this year around, Bombshell was looking diligently for a girl with a fresh new look; a femme fatale who is totally captivating and has a hint of innocence nicely cocooned in an attractive aura of serene simplicity. Topping the list with flying colours was GT&T Jingle and Song Competition finalist Esther Osborne, who almost literally brought the house down

with her electrifying presence on our pages. Her effect on the male species is legendary and cannot be detailed on these pages. Come on, you other very lovely divas. Don’t harbour hatred and get green with envy… This Esther girl is a classic all-rounder, and is a true representation of beauty and brains. Well done, Esther dear. Just let your light continue to shine…

Rafieya Husain is Bombshell’s ‘Woman of Substance’

WHEN Bombshell came up with this award just a year ago, it was because we felt the dynamic efforts of impressive female beauty ambassadors needed a forum to be acknowledged. Hence we selected a young lady who has excelled enormously at pageantry and has contributed splendidly to society through her humanitarian exploits and aspirations. We certainly hope the other contenders realize we were not just searching for a girl with a superb body and an attractive face. We wanted a rounded individual who was also capable of marketing Guyana splendidly on the entertainment frontier. This coveted title was won last year by the beautiful and versatile Katherina Roshana. This year, it is the exquisite Miss Rafieya

Husain who has won this award. This diva has just recently represented us at the Miss World Pageant, and was named in fourth position amongst the top ten finalists. She has also placed among the top 15 in the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ competition. Her presentation was based on “Domestic Violence”, and she educated the audience about this scourge in Guyana. Bombshell salutes a true queen who, after a long drought, has placed Guyana on the map in the world of international pageantry. In the lineup for this title also were former Miss Guyana Talented Teen, Tiffany Bonner; Miss Extravaganza 2013, Asheena Stewart; former Miss Guyana, the delightful Raquayyah Boyer; and three time international pageant title holder, Meleesa Payne.

Dr. Rosh Khan carts of title of ‘Bombshell Personality of 2014’ THIS is the first time we are going to name a ‘Personality of the Year’, and, yet again, the task was gruelling. Our criteria required an individual who is extremely intelligent, ambitious, dashing and continuously contributed in a positive way to society throughout 2014. This individual would have had to make an impacting ‘break through’ in an arena not customarily penetrated by even the best of stalwarts and creative artisans. From his contributions in medicine, to imparting promotional knowledge to businesses, to marketing and positive leadership skills, it was Dr. Rosh Khan who easily lifted

the prize from his other three competitors. Hotly pursuing this title also were WR Reaz, the talented Negla Brandis, veteran designer Sonia Noel, Promoter Ean Havercone, Dr. Samuel Charles, and television personality Travis Chase. Congratulations to you, Dr. Rosh. Keep on doing the good works… Next week we announce the winners in the categories of ‘Best Pageant Coordinator’, ‘Best Presenter -Radio’, and ‘Promoter of the Year’

‘Real Coolie Boy’ show set for Boxing Day at Skeldon, C/tyne

Mystic GUYANESE Reggae sensation Romeo Nirmal, popularly known as Mystic, will bring the house down on Saturday, December 26th, at the “Real Coolie Boy” show, set for the Line Path Ground in Skeldon, Corentyne. The “Real Coolie Boy” show is being pulled off by the promotion company Dreamz Unlimited out of Berbice; and Mystic, who hails from Black Bush Polder, Corentyne is expected to perform to a sold out crowd at the Line Path Ground. The singer says he would be performing many of his old reggae hits and, of course, his current hit song, “Coolie Boy”. He would

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

To-To Gas Station hosts 3rd Annual Parika Xmas Fete

N C E AGAIN, folks at Parika will get a chance to have a blast as To-To Gas Station, Stone Depot and Supermarket brings to the platter its 3rd Annual Parika Christmas Fete and Gift Sharing initiative. This event is customarily used as a ‘giving back programme’ for the entity, and this year around, folks there will be spicing up the event with spectacular performances from popular Character Dancer, ‘Granny

-Reggae sensation Mystic set to release latest single at show also launch his newest single, which he would perform for the first time at the show. That song is titled ‘Coolie Girl’. This show would also feature a number of talented and rising stars from throughout Guyana, including artistes from Berbice, among whom are Saint and Slim Minus from Flood Yard Records. Moreover, the reigning chutney Soca King, Pooran, the Ishaara Dance Group, and many other notable acts would be there! Tickets are available at La Grill, Imran & Sons, and Imran & Daughters general stores in Rose Hall Town. For more information, please call #604-7999.

Princess Hotel fetes children and elderly of the Palms Geriatric Institution

Granny Ivelaw Ivelaw’ and Westside Dancehall Queen, ‘Shortie.’ Parents are urged to bring out the kids, since they will enjoy receipt of free Christmas toys all night. This event will be staged tomorrow at the ‘Parika White Fence’ location, and music will be supplied by Slingerz Family. Patrons will get opportunity to meet and greet, and have photos taken with Santa Claus.

Lead Pipe and Saddis for action at Gravity Lounge GRAVITY Lounge will come alive tomorrow night with the soca sensational group Lead Pipe & Saddis! Their two current hits, “Ben Up” and “Ah Feeling”, have been taking over the radio waves for the last 2 months, and patrons can expect an energy packed performance. Celebrity DJ Titan VCD from Trinidad will be playing alongside Gravity’s resident DJ, Shizzle & Energy! Titan currently plays for award-winning Soca DJ Bunji Garlin! Early bird tickets are going like hotcakes for the paltry consideration of $2000, and can be purchased at Gravity Lounge, Electronic City, Oasis Cafe & Exclusive. Exclusive is also offering a special to all customers who spend $15,000 or more within the store: They will receive a free ticket to the event! For more information on this event, patrons can call 691-8433.

Kids jubilate inside the Princess Fun City Entertainment Centre

Inmates of the Palms Geriatric Institution enjoy a tasty lunch at the Princess Hotel

KEEPING in tune with the spirit of festivity, Princess Hotel Fun City Entertainment Centre just recently embarked on several initiatives to bring Christmas cheer to many. The children of Food for the Poor were fed at the institution, and were allowed to frolic and play games in the Fun City Entertainment Centre while inmates of the Palms Geriatric Institution were treated to a sumptuous lunch at the Princess Poolside. One hundred and fifty (150) children and residents were treated to an

all-inclusive day at Princess Hotel and Fun City, and were also given a treat at the Movie Theaters. Princess Hotel continues to support these worthy organizations as they strive towards ending homelessness and providing healthier, safer places in their quest to improve our communities. Members of the media were treated to lunch at Princess Hotel and Casino, and this was followed by a free viewing of the movie EXODUS.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

New Generation to rock East Coast Demerara with Xmas Eve Jouvert Explosion EVENTS come as readily as they go, having a few minutes/hours/days of fame before they are forgotten as a dream dies at the break of day. But there has hitherto been nothing like this thunderous initiative that would soon rock the very edges of Golden Grove (East Coast Demerara). Come December 24, 2014, ‘entertainment shockwaves will create seismic vibrations when the New Generation entertainment people unleash their ‘Jovert Explosion’ at the Golden Grove/Haslington tarmac. Folks you won’t want to miss this ‘Christmas Eve Bacchanal’, which will take you right into Christmas morning. So make sure you are there to sample the

Beenie Man, Lil Rick to perform in Guyana

free succulent pepper-pot and bread that would be served up to patrons. Yes, folks, smashing party vibes Jouvert style’ have been planned for way into Christmas morning; so, this year, let’s party a little differently at this massive Christmas Eve lime, and enjoy top-notch music from Gold Stone Sounds, fresh out of New York City; TRS Sounds, and Gold Rock Sound System. The event is, of course, sponsored by Banks Beer, and that should tell you it’s brewery fresh!!! This event is greatly anticipated for the ’country dons and divas’, so persons are urged to come out in their numbers and have a blast of a lifetime.

Beenie Man THE “Soca meets dancehall,” event will be electric and will feature King of the Dancehall, Beenie Man, at the National Park Tarmac on December 21. He is no stranger to Guyana, since he has performed at the Guyana National Stadium, the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, and other venues that were packed to capacity. This will be his last show in Guyana for 2014, and patrons can expect a very energetic performance as usual. He will be joined by a group of soca artistes who will definitely tear the place down. These include Trinidad and Tobago’s Lil Rick and 5 Star Akil –- both of whom have performed in Guyana several

Back by popular demand !!! ‘UNCENSORED 6’ set to sizzle at NCC on Dec 27 and Dec 29

Chubby THEY are back again by popular demand, and all Guyana is waiting with breaths abated. Well, folks ‘Uncensored 6’ is back at the National Cultural Centre on December 27 and 29, 2014, and this time it’s a ‘belly bus open masterpiece’ This time, however, the hotties of comedy will face off in one hilarious

showdown that will see folks ‘tear down de National Cultural Centre’ to sell their comedy. And fans can expect a riveting battle among folks like Kwasi ‘Ace’ Edmondson, Odessa Primus, Kirt ‘Chubby’ Williams, Michael Ignatius, Max Massiah, Brian Goodman, Jermaine Grimmond, Floyd Martindale, Sean Thompson, Mark Luke Edwards, Savitri Singh, and Patrick Chanderban. Meanwhile, the cast for both nights would include spectacular acts like Henry Rodney, Lyndon ‘Jumbie’ Jones, Leza ‘Radika’ Singh, Kwasi ‘Ace’ Edmondson, Odessa Primus, Kirt ‘Chubby’ Williams, Michael Ignatius, Max Massiah, Brian Goodman, Jermaine Grimmond, Floyd Martindale, Sean Thompson, Mark Luke Edwards, Savitri Singh, and Patrick Chanderban. Balcony tickets are being sold for $1000, with Auditorium Rear at $1500; while Auditorium Front tickets are carded at $2,500. Tickets can be had at the National Cultural Centre; Giftland OfficeMax; Elegance Jewellery and Pawn Shop; Gizmos and Gadgets; Payless Variety Store; Nigel’s Supermarket, and from Sir Mars.

Lil Rick times before. The locals slated to perform on the same stage are reigning Carib Soca Monarch, Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson; two-time Carib Soca Monarch, Jumo “Rubber waist” Primo; and Calvin Burnett. The vibes are expected to be “madddd vibes” since it will be the first event to have this mixed genre of music booming through the speakers of Slingerz Family and Crown Vibes. There will be a number of deejays passing through, including Deejay Puffy, Deejay Gully Rass, Deejay Akelio, Deejay Face and Deejay Green Downs.

Guyana starts 2015 with the inimitable Beres Hammond THE master of Lovers’ Rock, the inimitable Beres Hammond, will return to Guyana on January 3, 2015 for a mega concert promoted by McNeil Enterprise and Hits and Jams. Hammond, a reggae singer known in particular for his romantic lovers’ rock and soulful voice, will share the stage with rising Jamaican reggae star Romain Virgo in a concert being billed “More Beres” and slated to be staged at the National Stadium

Beres Hammond

at Providence. This concert intends to blend the mature sounds of Hammond with the contemporary style of Virgo, who hails from the Jamaican Parish of St Ann’s and rose to prominence after winning the Digicel Rising Stars competition in 2007. Virgo recorded his first hit record, “Mi Caan Sleep”, on the Penthouse label, and several hits followed, including “Wanna Go Home”, “Live Mi Life”, and “Alton’s Medley”. In June 2010, VP Records released his debut album, self-titled Romain Virgo. While Virgo would be making his maiden appearance in Guyana, Hammond is a household name here, in the Caribbean, North America and Europe, where he has wide crossover appeal. Hammond’s hit list stretches for miles and include ‘I feel Good’; ‘Putting Up Resistance’; ‘Rock Away’; ‘No Disturb Sign’, and many more. Appearing along with the Jamaican duo are local artistes Mingles Sound Machine, Jackie Hanover and Super Ray. Early Bird tickets go on sale from Friday, December 19. Early Bird VIP tickets are priced at $16,000, while Early Bird Ordinary are going at $2,500 each. Over the past two years, McNeil Enterprises and Hits and Jams have collaborated to promote some of the best concerts held in Guyana, bringing such truly stellar artistes as R. Kelly and John Legend.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Regular traffic restored at DHB after emergency repairs By Michel Outridge

Demerara Harbour Bridge

Below rates for December 18, 2014

AN incident on the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) Wednesday afternoon caused by heavy-duty sand trucks left two end posts on span 17 and 18 broken, causing officials to suspend heavy duty traffic to allow emergency repairs yesterday which left hundreds stranded on both sides of the DHB for several hours. DHB General Manager, Rawlston Adams told this publication that the DHB was not entirely closed to vehicular traffic but light traffic was allowed and monitored as a result of emergency repairs undertaken yesterday morning. He explained that they managed, however, to fully open the DHB to regular traffic after the repairs were completed by 11:00hrs. Adams added that the repairs were done within one and a half hours and normalcy was restored. He stated that late Wednesday afternoon, the two end posts supporting span 17 and 18 were broken when a large truck was travelling on the DHB and traffic was restricted to allow a light flow until it was fixed. Minister of Public Works and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn said he was aware of the matter but the DHB was not entirely closed since emergency repairs had to be done urgently and light vehicles were allowed while large vehicles such as trucks were debarred until the DHB was fully operational to accommodate regular traffic. He added that commuters were inconvenienced for some hours but it all went well after the repairs were done in a timely manner and the operations were back to normal by mid-morning. Traffic was backed up for several hours yesterday morning, causing some to fret as it was not ‘business as usual’ since working persons among others were stranded on both sides of the DHB.

Currency G$/US$ G$/GBP G$/CAD$ G$/euro BDOS$ G$/EC$ G$/TT$

Buying 205.98625 322.50876 177.91830 253.93677 101.74500 75.36667 32.14133

Selling 208.43594 326.55659 179.97419 257.16826 102.76500 76.12222 32.46355

Aries Act with courage today. Dress as if you were going to meet an important statesman. See yourself in the mirror and be proud to say you look good. Take action with confidence and feel free to strut your stuff. Be up-front with your accomplishments, and let people know you’re strong and trustworthy. Make sure you give many compliments, credit, and thanks to the people around you. Taurus Be conscious of your own needs, and feel free to be a little selfish. Give yourself the credit you deserve, and don’t let other people bully you into feeling like you aren’t worthy of the attention you receive. You have a great number of gifts to offer the world, and you shouldn’t be afraid to show them off. Lighten up and be proud. Other people are lucky to know you. Gemini Your energy and spunk should finally return after a couple days of feeling slightly down. You should enjoy a good mood all day. Your powers of persuasion are strong. There’s an extra boost of energy behind your emotions. You will find that this could lead to some sort of transformation deep within. Whatever you do, do it with passion. Let your courageous nature shine through. Cancer Get out of the mud. Have fun and don’t worry too much about the consequences. Put your to-do list aside for a while and focus on enjoying yourself. People are going to need some extra attention today, so be generous with your hugs and kisses. Your emotions are powerful and dynamic. The intensity behind your words reflects your passion. Leo Your emotions may be volatile right now. There’s passion behind your words. You have the power to instigate major changes in your life. If you’re wise, you will consider multiple ways to make them. Find the part of you that needs a boost, the area that lacks passion. Jump-start the battery that rules this aspect of your being, and make sure all your cylinders are firing. Virgo If you aren’t careful about the energy you dish out today, you will find that it all comes back to smack you in the face. Other people are likely to be as stubborn as you, so proceed cautiously. The more you try to control and manipulate others, the more friction will build. Things are likely to explode. Adopt a friendly attitude and try not to take anything too seriously. Libra Today is a fantastic day for you. You should enjoy a good mood and positive experiences with others. There’s most likely a slow-moving, transforming energy in your life right now that’s touching off your emotions. You will find that there is a great deal of fire and passion fuelling your heart, so be generous with your kind spirit and follow through with your promises. Scorpio Other people may be demanding of you, so do what you can to please the crowd. Don’t go overboard in thinking you need to be someone you’re not, and certainly don’t do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. Be generous with your affection, but make sure you receive emotional support in return. There are likely to be some imbalances that need minor adjustments

Friday December 19, 2014 – 14:30hrs Saturday December 20, 2014 – 14:30hrs Saturday December 21, 2014 – 14:30hrs

Sagittarius People may be somewhat selfish and self-centred today, but this doesn’t mean that you have to follow suit. Remind others of the importance of the collective. We all need to pitch in and do our part to be happy. You have the ability to offer balance to the situation, and you should definitely put this to the test. Do what you can to make the scales tip back to centre. Capricorn It may not be the easiest day to relate to others, but as usual, if you just go with the flow, you will find that you can have fun. Try not to get caught up in anyone else’s drama. There are likely to be soap operas playing all around you, and you would do well to steer clear of them. Maintain a light-hearted attitude today and try not to read into anything too deeply. Aquarius Things should flow extremely well for you. Load your engine with extra fuel, because you will be burning red hot. Don’t let anything stand in your way. By all means, fight for what you need. There’s a great deal of power behind your emotions, and you will find that the intensity of your feelings is real and courageous whether you’re laughing or crying. Pisces You need bigger and longer hugs than usual today. A powerful force is moving through your life and trying to shake things up. Don’t stoop to the level of petty argument and verbal sparring. The more you resist the opposition, the more stubborn and unwieldy the situation becomes. Make sure you have a good hold on your emotions before you leave the house.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Amla’s 208 , van Zyl fireworks heap misery ... From Back Page

partnership and then celebrated with a back-foot drive to the cover boundary two balls later. A single in the next over from Sulieman Benn saw him reach 150 for the ninth time in his career but he perished in the left-arm spinner’s next over, taken at backward point by Jermaine Blackwood, trying to punch a flighted delivery through the off-side. Again, the breakthrough only served to raise

false hopes for the Windies as Amla and van Zyl then combined in a 155-run, fifth-wicket partnership to further extend the Windies sorrows, and take their side to lunch at 449 for four. The right-handed Amla, resuming on 133, moved to 178 at the first interval, playing with complete assurance against an attack missing fast bowler Kemar Roach who failed to recover from an ankle injury sustained late on the opening day. He signalled his intent

with two back-to-back boundaries on either side of the wicket in the second over of the day sent down by seamer Jerome Taylor, and reached his 150 in the final one before the first drinks break. In cruise mode by now, Amla survived a dropped chance by Blackwood at mid-wicket off Taylor on 180 to complete his double century on the stroke of the first hour after lunch, when he clipped Cottrell to mid-wicket for a couple. The knock followed his monumental unbeaten 311 against England at The Oval two years ago and an unbeaten 253 against India in

SOUTH AFRICA 1st innings A. Petersen c Smith b Roach 27 D. Elgar c Samuels b Cottrell 28 F. du Plessis c wkp. Ramdin b Roach 0 H. Amla c Taylor b Benn 208 AB de Villiers c Blackwood b Benn 152 S. van Zyl not out 101 Q. de Kock not out 18

Extras: (b-8, lb-6, w-2, nb-2) 18 Total: (5 wkts decl., 140.3 overs) 552 Fall of wickets: 1-57, 2-57, 3-57, 4-365, 5-520. Bowling: Taylor 26.1-5-108-0, Cottrell 28-1-124-1 (w-1, nb-2), Roach 15.5-4-52-2 (w-1), Benn 46-7-148-2, Samuels 20-0-89-0, Brathwaite 1-0-2-0, Blackwood 3.3-0-15-0.

English Racing Tips Southwell 08:00 hrs Two Shades Of Grey 08:30 hrs Tableforten 09:00 hrs Pin Up 09:35 hrs Hana Lina 10:10 hrs Seychelloise 10:45 hrs Abi scarlet 11:20 hrs Burnhope

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:25 hrs Vade Mecum 09:05 hrs Sapphire Gem 09:45 hrs Astro News 10:20 hrs Colour Magic 11:00 hrs Commanche Moon

Exeter 08:10 hrs Smart Motive 08:40 hrs Rcok Gone 09:10 hrs Midnigfht Charmer 09:45 hrs Milansbar 10:20 hrs Thornton Alice 10:55 hrs Winged Crusader 11:30 hrs All Force Majeure Ascot 08:50 hrs Champagne Present 09:20 hrs Key To The West 09:55 hrs L’Ami Serge 10:30 hrs Josses Hill 11:05 hrs Little Boy Boru 11:40 hrs Yanworth

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Nagpur in 2010. His knock was the highest by a South African against West Indies and also the highest by a Proteas skipper at home. Amla was dismissed in the first over after the water break, however, dragging Benn to Taylor to long on, at 520 for five. Overall, he faced 371 balls and struck 22 fours, in just under eight hours at the crease. van Zyl, on 51 at lunch, made his way to three figures with aplomb, requiring only 130 balls in just under three hours, and striking 15 fours. His innings, however, almost never was. On two, he turned Benn to leg only for Kraigg Brathwaite at backward short leg to muff a sharp chance. Unfazed, the 27-yearold Western Province lefthander played with gay abandon, picking off boundaries at will to make the Windies pay for their indiscretion. He teed off in the first over after lunch, pulling the ineffective Taylor to the mid-wicket boundary before clearing mid-off with off-spinner Marlon Samuels and then sweeping the next ball for four, to rush into the 70s. van Zyl arrived in the 90s with an airy, full-blooded cover drive for four off Cottrell, moved to 99 by dissecting extra cover with a beautiful drive for another boundary off Benn, before steering the same bowler behind point for a single two balls later, to reach three figures. He is the fifth South African to score a hundred on debut. Quinton de Kock, unbeaten on 18 at the end, then added more misery for West Indies by clearing the ropes on either side of the wicket with the last two balls of Benn’s over, with the declaration in sight. Roach remains the best bowler with two for 52 but in his absence on Thursday, Benn led the attack with two for 148 from 46 overs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

FIFA set to vote on publication of Garcia report By Brian Homewood MARRAKECH, Morocco (Reuters) - FIFA’s executive committee began a two-day meeting amid tight security yesterday with members expected to vote on whether to release ethics investigator Michael Garcia’s report into the turbulent bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. The meeting, at a luxury Marrakech hotel where even the grounds were off limits to the public, began the day after Garcia quit in protest at the handling of his investigation into the process which led to the 2018 World Cup being awarded to Russia and the 2022 tournament to Qatar in December 2010. Sources close to the FIFA leadership suggested the vote could be closer than expected and that more committee members might be moved to vote in favour of the release of a redacted version of Garcia’s report as public pressure on them grows. The meeting will be addressed by Domenico Scala, head of FIFA’s audit and compliance committee and one of six people to have seen Garcia’s report. FIFA Exco members who have publicly called for the report to be published in full include Jim Boyce, Jeffrey Webb, Moya Doidd, Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein of Jordan and UEFA president Michel Platini. FIFA president Sepp Blatter could play a crucial role in swaying some of the undecided members on the 27-man committee to vote one way or another, sources at world football’s governing body said. FIFA’s ability to police itself, after a wave of corruption scandals, has been repeatedly questioned and Garcia, a former U.S. prosecutor, had been seen as one of the people most capable of exposing any wrongdoing. ZWANZIGER PROPOSAL Germany’s executive committee member Theo Zwanziger has made the proposal for the report to be released in full, although to do so FIFA would first have to alter its code of ethics,

Michael Garcia’ where article 36 currently limits what can be published. The article states that “only the final decisions already notified to the addressees may be made public.” It adds that “in the event of a breach of this article by a member of the ethics committee, the relevant member shall be suspended by the FIFA disciplinary committee until the next FIFA Congress.” It also states that “the members of the ethics committee and the members of the secretariats shall ensure that everything disclosed to them during the course of their duty remains confidential, in particular, facts of the case, contents of the investigations and deliberations and decisions taken as well as private personal data.” Another major issue is the protection of the identity of the 75 witnesses who gave evidence to Garcia, although FIFA critics say this can easily be done by carefully redacting the report. So far, only a 42-page statement from ethics judge Hans-Joachim Eckert has been made public and, although this identified problematic and inappropriate conduct by a number of candidates, it stopped short of calling for the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup tournaments to be reopened. Garcia said Eckert’s statement contained misrepresentations and lodged a complaint with FIFA’s appeals committee. This was rejected on Tuesday and Garcia quit 24 hours later. His resignation was a blow for Blatter who has touted the new-look ethics committee as the pillar of his reform process to make FIFA more transparent and less susceptible to corruption.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Hazlewood takes five on debut as Australia fight back .. Skipper Smith hits half-century to steady hosts

(REUTERS) - Josh Hazlewood’s five for 68 on debut helped Australia battle back into the second Test against India yesterday but the contest remained in the balance when the hosts finished the second day in Brisbane on 221 for four. India, who had been looking to drive home their advantage after taking charge on day one at the Gabba, could only add 97

runs to their overnight tally before being dismissed for 408 at lunch. Australia lost three wickets in the second session and it was left to stand-in skipper Steve Smith to steady the innings with a half-century to add to his unbeaten knocks of 162 and 52 in the first Test victory in Adelaide. The 25-year-old, deputising for the injured Mi-

Josh Hazlewood chael Clarke for the remainder of the series, was 65

not out when stumps were drawn early because of bad light, with Mitchell Marsh alongside him on seven. All-rounder Marsh was unable to field let alone bowl after suffering a hamstring injury on Wednesday, one of a slew of Australians who ended the sweltering first day of the contest in the treatment room. Australia needed a good start to day two and Hazlewood, crippled by cramps and forced off the field in mid-over on Wednesday, provided it by having Ajinkya Rahane caught behind for 81 with a peach of a delivery in the third over. TOUGH SLOG The 23-year-old returned before lunch to break a 57-run partnership between all-rounder Ravi Ashwin (35) and India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni (33), triggering a collapse which saw the tourists lose their last four wickets for 23 runs. “Yesterday was obviously a pretty tough slog with the heat,” Hazlewood told reporters at the Gabba. “But we all came out and bowled to our plan today and picked up the last six wickets for just about where we wanted them, so things are good.” Six of India’s wickets were caught behind, giving Brad Haddin a share of the

Australian record for catches by a wicketkeeper in a Test innings. David Warner was the first Australian batsman to fall, getting a top edge to an Umesh Yadav delivery on 29, and Shane Watson followed for 25 when Shikhar Dhawan took a brilliant catch off Ashwin. Opener Chris Rogers had just reached his sixth Test half-century and appeared to be ushering Australia to the tea break in reasonable shape when he gloved a Yadav ball to wicketkeeper Dhoni for 55.

INDIA 1st innings (o/n: 311-4) M. Vijay c Haddin b Lyon 144 S. Dhawan c Haddin b M. Marsh 24 C. Pujara c Haddin b Hazlewood 18 V. Kohli c Haddin b Hazlewood 19 A. Rahane c Haddin b Hazlewood 81 Ro. Sharma c Smith b Watson 32 M. Dhoni c Haddin b Hazlewood 33 R. Ashwin c Watson b Hazlewood 35 U. Yadav c Rogers b Lyon 9 V. Aaron c sub. b Lyon 4 I. Sharma not out 1 Extras:(b-4, lb-1, nb-1, w-2) 8 Total: (all out, 109.4 overs) 408 Fall of wickets: 1-56, 2-100,

Smith and Shaun Marsh put together a stand of 87 for the fourth wicket before the latter was caught by Ashwin for 32 to give Yadav (3-48) his third victim and bring his brother Mitchell to the crease. “I think we are in front of the game at the moment if we can have a good first session tomorrow,” Ashwin said. “We could have made a few more runs but 400 is enough if we can get a couple of quick wickets in the morning.”

3-137, 4-261, 5-321, 6-328, 7-385, 8-394, 9-407. Bowling: M. Johnson 21-4- 810, J. Hazlewood 23.2-6-68-5, M. Starc 17-1-83-0 (w-2), M. Marsh 6-1-14-1, N. Lyon 25.4-2-105-3, S. Watson 14.4-6-39-1. AUSTRALIA 1st innings C. Rogers c Dhoni b U. Yadav 55 D. Warner c Ashwin b U. Yadav 29 S. Watson c Dhawan b Ashwin 25 S. Smith not out 65 S. Marsh c Ashwin b U. Yadav 32 M. Marsh not out 7 Extras: (lb-1 nb-4 w-3) 8 Total: (for 4 wickets, 52 overs) 221 Fall of wickets: 1-47, 2-98, 3-121, 4-208. Bowling: I. Sharma 9-0-47-0 (nb-3, w-1), V. Aaron 12-1-59-0 (nb-1), U. Yadav 13-2-48-3(w2), R. Ashwin 18-3-66-1.

British anti-doping body signs agreement with Crime Agency LONDON, England (Reuters) - UK Anti-Doping has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Crime Agency as Britain beefs up its fight against the use and distribution of performance-enhancing substances. The independent body, created by the government in 2009 to oversee the country’s antidoping policy in line with WADA, has set out clear guidelines for sharing information in the fight against the supply and trafficking of doping-related substances. UK Anti-Doping already works with the UK Border Force. “Intelligence and investigations is an integral component of the revised 2015 World Anti-Doping Code and clean athletes should rest assured that UKAD is doing all it can to prevent doping activities and protect sport in the UK,” director of operations Nicole Sapstead said in a statement. “Today, we are delighted to formalise our already strong partnership with the NCA, strengthening our ability to tackle the supply chain of doping-related substances and intensify our activities in the global fight against doping in sport.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Clubs presented with $50 000 cheques THE sixteen clubs participating in the inaugural Stag Super XV1 Football Tournament which is being played among three of the affiliatls of the Guyana Football Federation each received a cheque for $50 000 each compliments of main sponsor Ansa McAl. Handing over the cash to each club, Ansa McAl Public Relations Officer Ms Darshanie Yussuf stated that the organising football associations, Berbice, East Demerara and East Bank, made the request as part of the sponsorship package to assist the clubs in their preparations for the tournament. “We had no hesitation in acquiescing to the request

since we understand what it takes to get one’s self in order for a high level competition. “We at Ansa McAl have been partnering and sponsoring some of the associations’ tournaments over the years and we are aware of what it takes to prepare.” Yussuf also mentioned that they are pleased to be supporting the development of the game in the three areas and that the tournament, which kicked off on Sunday last at the No.5 ground, West Coast Berbice, has brought together the best clubs from the three associations. Collectively they expressed gratitude to Yussuf and Ansa McAL for their

Pollard’s Strikers open Big Bash with a bang ADELAIDE, Australia (CMC) - Kieron Pollard’s Adelaide Strikers scored a big win over Melbourne Stars in the opening match of the Big Bash League here yesterday. The West Indies all-rounder was not among the wickets or runs as Strikers thrashed Stars by eight wickets with 45 balls remaining at Adelaide Oval. Strikers reached 149 for two in reply to Stars 148 for seven in front of a record crowd for an opening Big Bash match. Pollard’s two overs leaked 23 runs including two consecutive sixes by debutant Kevin Pietersen. Pietersen appeared to haul the Stars to a competitive total, top-scoring with 66 of 44 balls but wickets fell at regular intervals in the final ten overs. Strikers got off to an explosive start to the run chase, powered by a brutal fifty from their wicketkeeper and opening batsman Tim Ludeman. Luderman’s half-century was the fastest in BBL history off only 18 balls and he was unbeaten on 92 off 44 balls when the game ended in the 13th over.

NOTABLE DATES

JOSEPH Ignatius Murray won his third professional fight on December 19, 1987. Murray knocked out Wayne Coates in round three at the Albion Sports Complex ground in Berbice. A crafty fighter, Murray had eight straight victories before suffering his first defeat at the hands of Winston Goodridge. He floored Lalta `Coolie Bully’ Narine twice in found four to force a stoppage of the bout and win the local featherweight title at the National Sports Hall on Boxing Day 1990. Murray would be remembered for what many considered to be his best performance in a career that spanned 13 years. On April 18, 1993 he snatched the World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX super featherweight title following a well-earned points decision over Frenchman Jacobin Yoma. Murray also foght ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley but suffered a third-round knockout. He had his final fight in December of 2000 and ended with a total of 19 victories and six defeats.

Ansa McAl PRO Ms Darshanie Yussuf (centre front row) poses with representatives of the clubs after handing over the cheques at the No.5 ground. Also in picture is Stag Beer Brand Manager John Maikoo, on the left of Yussuf. The winner of the tourlargesse, noting that every Golden Stars and Soesdyke field, East Bank Demerara. nament will be rewarded dollar will be spent for its Falcons by 2-1 and 3-0 mar- There Agricola Red Triangle with a cheque for $1.5M; a intended purpose. gins respectively. will meet Ann’s Grove in second-place prize of $500 Already advancing to The quest for more quar- opening play at 18:00hrs 000 is at stake while the the quarterfinals are two ter-final berths will con- with the main event pitting third-placers will collect Berbice clubs, Monedderlust tinue tomorrow when action Grove Hi Tech against BV $300 000 and the losers, and Cougars who defeated switches to the Grove Play- Triumph United. $100 000.

GDF down Flamingo 6-2, Pele blank Black Pearl 4-0 PELE and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) football clubs picked up their second win to remain unbeaten in the 2014 Georgetown Football Association (GFA) 4th Banks Beer Cup tournament when action continued last Wednesday at the GDF Ayanganna Ground.

Playing in the first game of the double- header, Kerwin Benjamin hit a double (29th, 90th) while Jermaine Summerset (30th) and Godfrey Powers (52th) scored a goal each to set up the win for Pele over Black Pearl who are yet to secure a win. Delwin Fraser scored

a hat-trick (22nd, 89th, 90th) to help lead a goalhungry GDF team to a well deserved win in the competition. Desford Williams’ double (39th, 52nd) along with Usie Phillips’ single strike in the 20th minute saw the Army men past a stubborn Flamingo FC. Flamingo

got goals through Orlando Wricket (53rd) and Ryan October (68th). The tournament continues tonight with Alpha United facing the Guyana Police Force (GPF) from 20:00hrs and Blackwater and Northern Rangers playing in the curtainraiser from 18:00hrs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

Grove Hi Tech face BV Triumph, Agricola tangle with Ann’s Grove A POTENTIALLY mouthwatering double-header is set for the Grove Playfield this evening when the Stag Super XV1 knock-out football tournament continues with action on day two. Already off to a flying start following play at the No.5 ground West Coast Berbice last Sunday, fans can look forward to another day of pulsating rivalry. The four teams on show today in an East Coast against East Bank match-up will be seeking to join Monedderlust and Cougars in the quarterfinals, the two teams coming out victorious after Sunday’s action. The feature game this evening will see the East Banks #1 side, Grove Hi Tech, led by captain Dominic Garnett take on East Coast’s BV Triumph United. The prolific forward, who ended the East Bank Football Association Stag Beer-sponsored first division league as the leading scorer, will be hoping to transfer his form to this competition and take care of business in their first game. Support will come from the likes of Trevor Jones,

ricola attack will be their leading and inspirational scorer Gordon Grant who will find ample support in Kacy John, Lumumba Hinds, Travis Welch, Winston Rawlins, Daniel Angoy, Yohance

South African Kallis to play in CPL Part of the crowd at the No.5 ground, West Coast Berbice last Sunday.

Clive Matthews Jr, Lloyd Matthews, Wayne Andries, Devon Joseph, Rondell Alleyne (goalkeeper) Dexter Archer, Denzel Crawford and Marvin Squires among others. BV Triumph United’s charge for victory will be led by the elder statesman and left-footed Delroy Deen whose exploits are known. Like Grove Hi Tech, the BV team do not feature big names but their players can be destructive on the day if they have their way.

Back-up for Deen will be in the form of Deshane Garnett, Shemar Fraser, Paul Kingston, Compton Cudjoe, Jamil and Jomaul Murray, Michael Williams, Yonel Price and Jamal December. The opening game at 18:00hrs will see the East Bank’s second-seeded team, Agricola Red Triangle coming up against Ann’s Grove. Neither team knows much about the other and will therefore not be taking each other for granted. The more assertive of the

two teams will likely move on when the dust is settled this evening. Both teams are village-based and their supporters are expected to be out in numbers to support and urge them on. Combining for Ann’s Grove will be Kevon Barry, Nickose Denny, Quincy Johnson, Antonio Jackson, Maxton Adams, Jamin Rogers, Levon Adams, Steve Francis, Gregory Doris, Dwayne Duke, Mervin Hardy and Travis Allen. At the helm of the Ag-

CASTRIES, St Lucia (CMC) – Outstanding South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis will ply his trade in next year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL), organisers have confirmed. T h e 3 9 - y e a r- o l d a n nounced his retirement from international cricket last July but has continued to play Twenty20 cricket for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League and for Sydney Thunder in the Australia Big Bash. Kallis joins the likes of former Australian Ricky Ponting and England’s Kevin Pietersen who have campaigned

GFF constitutional reform set for February By Rawle Toney AT the top of the long list of priorities for the fivemember GFF Normalisation Committee apart from managing the day-to-day activities of the country’s football will be to adopt the new constitution of the GFF; to amend the current one and to organise elections according to the new constitution. This was the mandate given by the sport’s world

Roberts, Marlon Clarke, Collis Samuels, Jermaine Frank and Devon Jeffers. Only two of the four teams on display today will be empowered to move on to the quarterfinals.

Clinton Urling governing body FIFA when it disbanded the Christopher Matthias-led Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday December 19, 2014) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to Tuesday’s quiz: (1) WI vs NZ, Bourda, 1972 (2)1973 Today’s Quiz: (1) How many Test hundreds Basil Butcher scored? (2)Who is the first WI to hit an ODI century? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

installed Guyana’s first-ever Normalisation Committee, headed by businessman Clinton Urling. Speaking at the GFF’s end-of-year Press Conference on Wednesday last, Urling said that the GFF’s constitution will be revised no later than February. “Early February, we’ll have a committee of no more than 15 persons sitting on that committee for two days and FIFA will handle that process and not the Normalisation Committee and after the two days, we’ll come out with a new Constitution, hopefully and from then, all our Member Associations’ constitution should mirror or fall in line,” Urling said. The current constitution is seen as one with contempt and its nostalgic reading of the game had brought the world’s leading sport to dispute among the affiliated member associations. How the Normalisation Committee will go about making the historic reform is not yet known, with Urling pointing out “the approach to doing it in terms of how we’re going to our member

association, I can’t say presently; maybe we will hire a consultant to go around or we go as a committee, I’m not sure of the process”. Meanwhile, with the GFF announcing that Guyana will have a busy 2015 on the international circuit, a calendar of activity is in the horizon and one that the member associations and promoters will have to abide to, says Urling. “All football, in particular association football, should be first sanctioned by the Federation. If it’s not sanctioned by the federation, it’s not an official tournament and moving forward come next year, if it’s not sanctioned by the federation, I know our referees will not officiate in those games. We’re not going to mandate anybody but our approach is to work in accordance to our constitution. “The Technical Director and the Director of Finance will play an important role in what we will be doing next year.”. It is said that the GFF is “moving away from ad hoc approaches, so the whole approach for developmen-

tal plans for the year (2015) is something that we will pursue so by early February. We have already sent out letters to our federation asking for their plans for the year”. Urling highlighted that currently, the only tournament approved for 2015 is the Kashif and Shanghai football extravaganza which will run from March 6 to April 5. It has become a ‘norm’ or a tradition that at the end of the year, associations and promoters host lucrative football tournaments; but not any more. Urling raised the brows of many that gathered when he made it clear that as of 2015, the period November to January 1, will be reserved for the GFF. “The year-end tournament will be organised by the GFF and I know that might be subjected to change later on, but as we sit here, we have decided. The executives coming in are free to make their appropriate changes but the period November to January 1 will be for the GFF,” said Urling.

Jacques Kallis in the Caribbean tournament since its inception last year. “I have really enjoyed playing in the Caribbean with the Proteas and am looking forward to hopefully returning for the CPL,” said Kallis. “It is an amazing place with amazing people and I am excited to see what team I will be playing for. CPL has produced some fantastic cricket and the fans really bring a special atmosphere so I can’t wait to be a part of it.” Kallis is the contemporary game’s most prolific allrounder. He amassed 13 289 runs in 166 Tests with 45 centuries and an average of 55, allowing him to top South Africa’s all-time list and sit third in the international aggregates behind Indian Sachin Tendulkar and Australian Ponting. He ended his ODI career with 11 579 runs in 328 matches, with 17 centuries at an average if 44, and CPL International Cricket Director Tom Moody said the player’s presence in the tournament would be a huge asset. “The addition of these cricketing greats to the roster for CPL 2015 is testament to the growing success of the ‘Biggest Party in Sport’ which has grown significantly since its inaugural year,” Moody said. “And, with players of this calibre getting on board, CPL is offering young Caribbean cricketers a great opportunity to test their skills against some of the best of their generation.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 19, 2014

MoH/Health 2000 Inc./Ansa McAl Girls U-11

Stella Maris complete double with 3-1 penalty kicks victory … Enterprise take third place By Calvin Roberts THE DANCING and celebrations that took place around 17:25hrs at the Ministry of Education ground yesterday afternoon could not fully underline the joy for Stella Maris Primary School Girls Under-11 football team. Having defeated giant killers St Stephen’s Primary 3-1 via penalty kicks to take the Petra Organisation/Ministry of Health/Health 2000 (Guyana) Inc./Ansa McAl Smalta Girls Pee Wee Under-11 crown, Stella Maris emulated their male counterparts who earlier this year were crowned Courts Pee Wee Under-11 champions. A vociferous crowd on hand cheered both teams who took the field for the final to the sound of the FIFA national anthem and when the action commenced, St Stephen’s were all over Stella Maris in the first half, looking to stop them from creating the historic double.

With the stereo sounds blasting in the background the tune ‘We are the champions’, the victorious Stella Maris Girls Under-11 Pee Wee championship-winning team find it hard to contain their exuberance as they sing along to celebrate their win. Several goal-scoring opportunities went a-begging, but the entertainment on the

field made up for such, as the first half ended goalless, with the one near-opportuni-

ty being Stella Maris’ custodian pulling off a save from a Brianna Jordan corner kick.

Guyana’s Junior hockey team win tour series By Leeron Brumell

THE Guyana Hockey Board’s national junior men’s team to Trinidad and Tobago have taken a 2-nil lead in their three-game series against the hosts. On Wednesday evening, the Guyanese claimed a 2nd victory over Trinidad and Tobago’s U-19 Development team; this time their ‘B’ Team at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua, and this time by a 2-nil margin. Trinidad played a low press from the start of the game, allowing Guyana to maintain possession in their own half of the field. This made them difficult to break down and forced the Guyanese to work the ball round the back from side to side to create gaps in the Trinidadian defence. After Trinidad conceded a long corner from a Guyanese left-sided attack, an aerial pass to the defender Daniel Hooper provided enough space for him to

Guyana’s National Junior Men’s team in gold and the T&T Development U-19s after the game on Wednesday ‘A’ team. In Monday’s warm-up find captain Mark Sargeant free hit just outside the Trinfree at the top of the D. His idadian scoring area and game, Guyana edged out first time shot was neatly laid the ball off to Aroydy Paragon Hockey Club 2-1. In the final game of the deflected in on the near post Branford, who pulled the by striker Ato Greene to give ball onto his reverse and sent series last night, Guyana Guyana the early lead. his shot over the advancing were down to face a combined T&T Development D e s p i t e b e i n g o u t - Trinidadian goalkeeper. matched, the work rate Although Guyana had team. Meanwhile, former and fighting spirit of the several more goal-scoring Trinidadian side frustrated opportunities the Trinida- Trinidadian national playthe Guyanese for most of dian defence held strong er and drag-flicking spethe match. for the remainder the game cialist Wayne Leggerton conducted a training sesGuyana had to wait until to limit the score to 2-0. the fourth quarter to register On Tuesday, Guyana sion for the team yesterday their second goal, when Ja- claimed a come-from-be- morning, focusing on the marj Assanah took a quick hind 2-1 victory over the specialty skill.

Like father, like daughter! National custodian Richard Reynolds offers his daughter a congratulatory hug, following her heroine feats for Stella Maris yesterday. St Stephen’s had the opportunity to steal the game in the second half when they were awarded a penalty, but the kick was muffed by Stella Maris custodian once again, forcing the game to be decided on penalty kicks. It was here that Stella Maris utilised the services of their skipper Ludesha Reynolds, the daughter of national custodian Richard Reynolds who was present, to good effect, using the younger Reynolds as their custodian, just as they did in the quarterfinals and semifinals. And in true captaincy fashion, Ludesha Reynolds saved the second and third spot kicks while she herself took and converted the second kick for her team who came up trumps, to spark off

wild celebrations. In the third-place playoff, Enterprise whose Aliyah Alleyne was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) missed a penalty kick during regulation time, but had reason to smile when her 19th minute goal was recorded to nullify Nikita Prince’ 16th minute strike for West Ruimveldt. This contest was also decided on penalty kicks, to which Enterprise won 2-1 to claim the third place from West Ruimveldt who took fourth, with North Georgetown, South Ruimveldt, Tucville and F. E Pollard occupying the fifth to eighth positions. Chronicle Sport will bring you a more detailed description of the action in tomorrow’s edition.

Daniel Wilson on pace for Golden Booth award

ALPHA United’s goal hungry forward Daniel Wilson currentlysits on top of the goal scoring list in this year’s Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Banks Beer Cup. Wilson racked in nine goals from just two games played while his teammate Dwain Jacobs is just one goal behind (8). Another Alpha United player Jahaal Greaves is also in the hunt with five goals to round off the tournament’s top three goal scorers. Western Tigers’ Mervin Joseph, Germaine Junior of Fruta Conquerors and the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Rawle Haynes each scored three goals.

Sport CHRONICLE

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Stella Maris complete double with 3-1 penalty kicks victory See Story on Page 35

Amla’s 208 , van Zyl fireworks heap misery on Windies … Stiaan van Zyl becomes fifth South African to score a hundred on debut

Hashim Amla moves to a double-hundred on the second day of the first Test in Centurion.

CENTURION, South Africa (CMC) – Captain Hashim Amla lashed a third career double-century and Stiaan van Zyl stroked a hundred on debut, to propel South Africa to an imposing total but rain prevented the hosts from ramming home the advantage on the second day of the opening Test against West Indies here yesterday. Revelling in good conditions and a muted Windies attack, South Africa rattled up 552 for five before declaring just before

Banks Beer Knockout Football …

Alpha United, Police clash today ALPHA United will be going for the jugular this evening at the GDF ground when they play their final group round-robin match of the Banks Beer Knockout football tournament. The tournament favourites will clash with Police in the feature match of a double-header card and would be fielding a number of players who have been resting. Coach Wayne `Wiggy’ Dover reported that Police are not being taken lightly and his side would be bringing in reinforcement as striker Dwight Peters and goalkeeper Ronson Williams are set to make a return in today’s match. “Police are a much stronger team than the two we

Wayne Dover have played before. We are taking this game very seriously and are looking to finish the Group stage undefeated,” Dover said. So far Alpha United scored 33 goals in two games. `The Hammer ’ first humiliated Blackwater 17-0 then embarrassed Northern Rangers 16-0 in

their next. Daniel Wilson and Dwayne Jacobs have combined to create havoc. Wilson, moved from midfield to the strike line, has scored 10 goals in the two matches while Jacobs fired in eight. Dover explained that Peters would be returning from a hamstring injury while Williams was being rested. “There are a number of other players who will be playing in the competition for the first time tomorrow. We will be strengthening as we move forward,” Dover said. Alpha United have been placed in Group A of the competition alongside Blackwater, Northern Rangers and Police. This evening’s feature game begins at 20:00hrs The opening match will see Northern Rangers and Blackwater meet from 18:00hrs.

tea, with the prolific Amla leading the way with 208 and van Zyl unfurling a breezy, unbeaten 101. However, any hopes of getting at the chronically brittle West Indies top order were quickly scuppered as heavy rain swept across SuperSport Park, erasing any chance of play for the remainder of the day. After five sessions in the field and with little to show for their efforts, the washout would have come as a relief for the Windies but a massive disappointment to the Proteas who took

Stiaan van Zyl soaks up his debut Test hundred in Centurion. de Villiers consumed command of the contest with 235 deliveries in a shade over 5-1/4 hours and countanother emphatic batting ed 16 fours and two sixes, display. Resuming on 340 for posting a record 308 for the three, Amla and van Zyl fourth wicket with Amla. He punched left-arm proved the catalysts of South seamer Sheldon Cottrell Africa’s healthy progress afdown the ground for a ter AB de Villiers fell inside couple in the day’s fifth the first hour of the morning over to raise the 300-run after adding just ten to his overnight 141. See Page 30

Finger injury rules Fudadin out of the South African series Assad Fudadin

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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (CMC) - Left-handed batsman Assad Fudadin has been ruled out of the ongoing three-match Test Series against South Africa due to injury, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) announced yesterday. The 29-year-old Guyanese batsman suffered a fracture of the little finger on his right hand during warm-up on the opening day of the first Test on Wednesday. He underwent surgery late Wednesday, the WICB said in a release. WICB says a replacement player will be named in the coming days. Fudadin, who played three Tests in 2012 against England and New Zealand, was selected as a replacement for Darren Bravo who pulled out of the tour citing personal reasons. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2014