2015 4 10 by Guyana Chronicle

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CARICOM welcomes Obama’s No. 104154 FRIDAY APRIL 10, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

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stance to improve Cuba relations – at CARICOM-USA Summit in Jamaica Page

Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ms Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and President Donald Ramotar at the CARICOM-USA Summit yesterday in Kingston, Jamaica

De Santos:

Ram obsessed with Jagdeo

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President commits– tobenefits, 21 escape injured Albion quality healthcare Estate workers death as bus

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Harper rejects 7 blackmail attempts over son’s court case

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Elisabeth Harper

Reagan Pollard

topples after slamming car

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

CARICOM welcomes Obama’s stance to improve Cuba relations -- at CARICOM-USA Summit in Jamaica

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar yesterday joined other regional leaders for a historic meeting with United States (US) President, Mr Barack Obama in the Jamaican capital, Kingston. President Ramotar later reported that besides joining colleague regional leaders in congratulating their US counterpart for the steps he’s taken to improve bilateral relations with Cuba, they also discussed with him Cuba’s

current status in this new dispensation, having been once classified by the US as a state sponsor of terrorism. He said that leaders and representatives of the 15 countries in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) also discussed competitiveness, financial aid, agricultural and technical assistance, and renewable energy, to which latter subject President Obama pledged to con-

tribute US$20M in technical assistance. The topic of security, encompassing issues such as combatting the illicit drug trade which affects many nations was also discussed. Meanwhile, with respect to the issue of US-Cuba relations, President Obama reportedly said that the US State Department has completed its review of whether or not to remove Cuba from the aforementioned list of nations, but that he has not yet been in receipt of a final recommendation, and as such was not ready to pronounce on the matter. “Our emphasis has been on the facts,” was all he was apparently prepared to say on the matter of considering Cuba’s removal from the State Department’s terrorism list, where it has remained for more than 30 years. Removing it would clear a major obstacle to the re-establishment of diplomatic relations, as the two former political foes advance towards the closest they have ever been in half-a-century. The review was ordered by President Obama back in

CARICOM leaders yesterday with US President, Mr Barack Obama (centre), President Donald Ramotar (fourth right, second row) at the CARICOM-USA Summit in Kingston Jamaica December 2014, when he and termination was now going ing country nationalised USCuba’s President Raúl Castro through an inter-agency re- owned Cuban oil refineries. Meanwhile, leaders, and agreed to restore diplomatic view that has not yet been ties and move toward normal finished. “There’s a process or their representatives are relations. involved,” he said, adding, expected to attend the SevThe State Department “I won’t make a formal an- enth Summit of the Amerlooked at whether Cuba had nouncement today about what icas, which, for the first engaged in terrorism activity those recommendations are time, will see participation by all 35 countries in the in the last six months, the cri- until I receive them.” teria for designating a country In October 1960, the US Western Hemisphere, inas a State sponsor of terrorism. imposed a financial, economic cluding Cuba, in Panama President Obama said that and commercial blockage on City from April 10 to 11. the State Department’s de- Cuba after the Spanish-speak- (GINA)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

De Santos:

Ram obsessed with Jagdeo CHARGES against Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, filed by vocal critic of the current Administration, Mr Christopher Ram, are “frivolous, vexatious, an abuse of the process of the court” and represent an “unnatural obsession” with the former president. These were the sentiments of Attorney-at-Law, Bernard De Santos, who was retained by Dr Jagdeo to defend him against the charges. “I can only imagine the devastating consequences which can flow if the criminal justice system will be used in such a manner and across the political divide. This is nothing more than political sensationalisation and mischief,” he said. Ram contends that there was a violation of Guyana’s electoral laws, as outlined in the ‘139D of The Representation of the Peoples Act, Cap 1:02’,under which the private action was filed. The Representation of the People Act addresses processes, actions and sanctions for breaches of various protocols. MMU REPORT Ram’s move also follows the pronouncements of the Guyana Elections’ Commission (GECOM) Media Monitoring Unit (MMU). The first report since its resuscitation was released earlier this week states that at an event at Babu John, last month, Dr Jagdeo said: “They shout about racism of the PPP, but they practise racism. They whisper campaigns. In the last elections they went to some of the Afro- Guyanese villages and beat some drums at 6 O’clock in the morning and say let us throw out these coolie people. Get up, go out and vote, throw out the coolie people. That’s the kind of language they use. Anybody from our party who uses that sort of language, we will kick them out. This is our approach.” The MMU concluded that his comments were “racially divisive” – although the Unit did say that this was “probably” not intentional. The Unit said: “Taking into consideration the historically and politically influ-

Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

Christopher Ram

Bernard De Santos

‘It is within the foregoing context that the Unit verily concluded that the remarks made by Dr. Jagdeo were racially divisive, [though] probably, not intentionally’ -- MMU enced divisions that persist up to now between Africans and East Indians in this country, and which are usually more pronounced during elections periods, the Unit came to the conclusion that the anecdotal illustration used by Dr. Jagdeo to make his point about racism, boomeranged disastrously, since it came over as a calculated exploitation, for political purposes, of the known fears and insecurities of one

section of the population – East Indians. “It is within the foregoing context that the Unit verily concluded that the remarks made by Dr. Jagdeo were racially divisive,[though] probably, not intentionally.” GROSS MISREPRESENTATION All considered, Jagdeo’s law-

yer noted that Ram’s contention is a “gross misinterpretation and colossal misuse and abuse” of the law. De Santos said, “I have examined the statements allegedly made by Mr. Jagdeo and which form the basis of the charge; I have examined the section of the law under which the charge has been laid and in my view the charge is

‘This unprecedented use of a criminal charge to muzzle speakers at public political events is an assault on the democratic right of political leaders to speak freely on matters of national interest as well as a violation of the democratic right of the citizenry to receive such information’ – Bernard DeSantos

frivolous, vexatious and an abuse of the process of the court in which it has been filed. “Indeed, it is a gross misinterpretation and colossal misuse and abuse of section 139D of the Representation of the People Act, Cap1:02.” He declined to speculate on Ram’s motive for moving ahead with the charge. The lawyer said, “I will say however, that it constitutes an abridgement of the constitutional right and freedom of my client to speak and express himself freely. “Indeed, this unprecedented use of a criminal charge to muzzle speakers at public political events, is an assault on the democratic right of political leaders to speak freely on matters of national interest as well as a violation of the democratic right of the citizenry to receive such information.”

‘This is nothing more than political sensationalisation and mischief’ – Bernard DeSantos De Santos expressed the hope that the matter will be reviewed “speedily” by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The matter is expected to be heard before Magistrate Charlyn Artiga at the Whim Magistrates’ Court, Region 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne) on April 20.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Two Mexicans spearheading coconut industry training programmes

--with GOG and IICA support

There was a formal launch of the first of a series of the training programmes in the auditorium of the Guyana School of Agriculture at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara . But the bulk of the training will be done at the facilities of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), also at Mon Repos. The formal launch yesterday was attended by Dr. Gabriel Ferrer Ortega, Charge d’ affaires of the Embassy of Mexico, Mr. Wilmot Garnett IICA representative in Guyana , Mr. Reuben Hamilton Robertson Country Representative of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Mr. George Jarvis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Chief Executive Officer of NAREI, Dr. Oud-

By Clifford Stanley COCONUT farmers and other stakeholders in the industry are to benefit from training programmes under a bilateral agreement between the Governments of Guyana and Mexico with support from the Inter- American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). The training aims at equipping coconut farmers to revitalize the industry and move it towards its full potential, it was disclosed yesterday. The resource persons are two experts from the Mexican National Institute of Research on Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock (INIFAP), namely Ms. Matilde Cortazar Rios and Mr. Irving Manuel Fuentes Del Angel.

Dr. Homenauth of NAREI; Mr Wilmot Garnett, IICA Representative; Mr George Jervis, PS Ministry of Agriculture; and Mr Ortega of the Embassy of Mexico at the launch of the coconut training programme yesterday it is charcoal or coconut relations between Guyana ho Homenauth, and several commodity like coconut powder, etc., as well as the and Mexico, established value-added commodities, in March 1973, have been senior agricultural officers, water or dried coconut. technicians and farmers and “We are looking at all where Guyana could have strengthened with the many producers. aspects of value whether a competitive advantage cooperation projects that In opening remarks Dr Homenauth disclosed that the work by SAGARPA was part of an ongoing coconut revitalization programme for Guyana. He stressed that the NAREI and by extension the Government of Guyana was emphasising coconut as an industry and not as a single

‘We are looking at all aspects of value whether it is charcoal or coconut powder, etc., as well as the value-added commodities, where Guyana could have a competitive advantage against others in the Caribbean region that are involved in value-added production’ – CEO of NAREI, Dr. Oudho Homenauth against others in the Caribbean region that are involved in value-added production,” he said. Charge d’affaires Dr Ferrer said that bilateral

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Obama in Jamaica pays tribute to Bob Marley (BBC News) BARACK OBAMA has taken a tour of the Bob Marley museum in Jamaica after becoming the first US President to visit the country since 1982. To the strains of the late reggae star’s One Love, Mr Obama was shown around the sprawling house in Kingston that was Mr Marley’s final home. The US President said he was a fan of the musician, telling his museum guide: “I still have all the albums.” Mr Obama is in Jamai-

ca to meet the 15-member Caribbean Community bloc. But his first stop after landing in Kingston was the old Victorian-style house in central Kingston that Mr Marley called home between 1975 and his death in 1981. Mr Obama spent 20 minutes in the museum, which now houses artifacts from the singer’s life including gold records and his Grammy Lifetime Achievement award. His arrival aboard Air Force One on Wednesday

made him the first sitting US President to set foot in the country since Ronald Reagan visited 33 years ago. He was greeted by Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller and the US Ambassador to Jamaica, Luis Moreno. Mr Obama will meet representatives of the 15 countries in the Caribbean Community group on the three-day trip to Jamaica and Panama, and is expected to discuss energy and security issues.

The Bob Marley museum in central Kingston was Barack Obama’s first stop after landing in Jamaica

PM: Concern over terror threat in Caribbean (Trinidad Express) TRINIDAD and Tobago’s Prime M i n i s t e r, K a m l a P e rsad-Bissessar, says she is very concerned of the threat of terrorism, not only for her country, but for the entire Caribbean Region. Speaking ahead of yesterday’s meeting of CARICOM leaders and the United States President, Barack Obama, at the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies, Mrs. Persad-Bissessar said it was Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica who co-sponsored the United Nations resolution last September in New York, to deal with threats in the Middle East. As lead Prime Minister on crime and security in the Region, Mrs. Persad-Bissessar said the terrorism threat is one matter she intends to raise at the meeting with the

US President, beginning at midday (Jamaica time). She leads a delegation which includes Minister of Energy and Energy Affairs, Senator Kevin Ramnarine. Energy is another topic on today’s agenda. Mrs. Persad-Bissessar stated: “We are very concerned and we will do all we can to work in partnerships to deal with narco trafficking, transnational organized crime, which is human trafficking and trafficking in arms, and trafficking in drugs. Now there is another serious threat to the Region and that has to do with the threats coming from the terrorist groups in the Middle East. “You may have seen the latest UN report and others reports coming in where Trinidad and Tobago, and the

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, with Jamaican Prime Minister, Portia Simpson-Miller rorism, because one, nationals Region, are being identified may be leaving to go, there as an area from which persons are others who are coming are moving to fight in those from other parts of the Region terrorist areas. and passing through Trinidad “For those of us who and Tobago as a trans-shipsigned on to the resolution, ment, if you like. it gives us great benefits and “One part is that peohelp in the fight against terple are actually going, the

more dangerous and equally dangerous is if they are returning, having been there, and having been trained and exposed. “Having signed on to that resolution, we have a little more protection, because of the cooperation and partnership that would have taken place relating to the sharing of information, sharing of intelligence, that comes on a global scale. Should such persons attempt to re-enter, we may have greater knowledge or forewarning of such re-entries. “I am most concerned not

just for Trinidad and Tobago, but for the Region, and at the last CARICOM Heads, I raised the issue very seriously. Heads did take it on, some may feel it is not for their specific country at this time, but that is a threat…..it is facing the world. “And who are we, as small nation states, where are borders are porous, that is why narco trafficking happens so often in our Region. It is important that we band together, and CARICOM has made those decisions that we would work and partner together.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Obama’s visit, Guyana’s hopes, and the Cuban connection IN a press release, Prime Minister of Jamaica, Madame Portia Simpson-Miller announced the impending visit to that island of Barack Obama, President of the United States of America on 9th April, 2015. According to the release, in addition to bilateral discussions on a range of issues of mutual interest with Simpson Miller, President Obama will also meet with Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for discussions on issues on the CARICOM-USA agenda, including security and trade. They will also exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Speculations are rife that President Obama is

expected to use a meeting of Caribbean nations to try to reassert American influence in the Region and press its leaders to pursue alternative energy solutions that would loosen their reliance on oil from Venezuela. This seems to be evident from the corresponding visit of USA’s Energy Secretary Ernest J. Moniz, who accompanied the American President, arriving in Jamaica on Wednesday night. The meetings, according to a media report, will be “… focused on trade and energy use and production in the Caribbean basin.” Venezuelan subsidised oil is used by most Caribbean nations; and that country is currently experiencing an economic crisis. However, while excellent relations

existed between Hugo Chavez and the Guyana Government, from which our rice deals and other trading partnerships evolved, the interference by Venezuela in Guyana’s oil exploration expeditions is again raising border tensions. Here one has to remember that Guyana’s Ankoko Island is still under annexation by Venezuela. The Heads-of-State will encounter preludes at the summit of Latin American nations - the Summit of the Americas, slated to open today in Panama City, where it is expected that the Venezuelan and Cuban issues will take precedence over other items on the agenda. According to a March

9th New York Times report by Julie Hirschfeld Davis, there are tensions between the Obama Administration and President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela, especially so because of an executive order by Obama that froze assets of mid-level Venezuelan officials suspected of human rights abuses or violations of due process. The report states that “The order described Venezuela as a threat to United States national security, a charge that senior American officials have recently tried to soften, arguing that it was merely pro forma language that accompanies any such sanctions.” On the issue of Cuban/ USA relations, Davis reports that “President Obama’s push for a historic opening

with Cuba faces its first major test this week as he travels to a summit meeting in Latin America, where he hopes to highlight momentum toward ending a half-century of isolation from the island nation. “Even before Mr. Obama boarded Air Force One on Wednesday, White House officials signalled that the administration was nearing a decision on whether to remove Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. That left open the possibility that he could use the Summit of the Americas in Panama to clear a major sticking point in the effort to restore diplomatic ties between Washington and Havana. “The move would pave the way for the reopening of embassies that have been closed for over 50 years, a

crucial step in the easing of tensions between the United States and Cuba that Mr. Obama announced in December.” The United States was the driver of the push for the expulsion of Cuba from the Organization of American States in 1962; and in a historic move, Mr. Obama and President Raúl Castro of Cuba will engage each other in official meetings for the first time, during the summit at general events and in bilateral encounters on the sidelines. D a v i s w r o t e “ M r. Obama’s trip… is emerging as a crucial milestone in his effort to turn the page on a Cold War-era grudge that his advisers say has led to policies that are ineffectual and harmful to American interests.”

After dark days under the PNC, now a progressive developing country THE MEMORIES of the PNC dictatorship is still a nightmare. The oppression, discrimination, insecurity, kick-down door bandits and killing of ministers and those who were threats to the PNC. Guyana was the poorest country in the Caribbean with lack of foreign investment, rampant poverty and lack of economic development. The Government had to subsidise millions to the Linden PNC strong hold for water and electricity . Even though the country was in deep recession, truckloads of essential items, mainly rice and sugar were sent to Linden. The roads, schools, bridges and hospital were beyond repair. The

daily blackouts and no money to buy fuel. Guyana was a suitcase economy. People such as Mr. Glenn Lall used to bring shoes with suitcases and sell at Stabroek market. Economic growth was dead and many businessmen such Mr.Badal and Mr.Iman Bacchus had to close. Mr.Sharma had a small refrigeration repair business in his garage. Today, these businessmen have acquired so much wealth that they now suffer from amnesia. I could remember the horror of National Service. It was compulsory so as to deprive Indo-Guyanese tertiary education and other Government jobs. My sister and niece were raped by officers. Females had to surrender for a loaf of bread. The PNC had

employment offices in all the regions of Guyana to assist their supporters to fill positions in all the ministries. No jobs with loss of hope, like Mr. Freddie Kisson, myself and thousands of Guyanese had to migrate . I lived in the U.S.A and travelled to many countries and the memories of the days under the PNC kept reminding me that such a beautiful country as ours, with so much natural resources was crippled by the PNC. Since 1992 I have been visiting Guyana with friends and relatives and the transformation has been unbelievable. The country has been making progressive economic growth when all over the world people are suffering and recession is taking place.

The life-style of Guyanese has imporoved.The many fast food outlets are filled with customers. Many Guyanese can now afford to own a house. The roads are congested with vehicles because every Guyanese can afford a vehicle and 50% own one or more. The trip under the PNC that would take six hours with damage to your vehicle , now takes one hour and you can travel to any part of the country via road. Visitors are astonished to see, from kindergarten to pensioner, one can afford a cell phone. The pensioners are given free water, electricity and computer. This doesn’t happen even in USA and Canada, where everybody has to work and nothing is free. I feel very proud to know that Guyanese students are

doing better than those in the Caribbean. No more is a party card a pre-requisite to get a scholarship, entry to UG and other institutions. Students now have many options to achieve higher education. The Government has set up the learning channel, built many technical, secondary and primary schools to enable everyone to have free access to education. Guyanese are returning home in thousands and no more those going on holiday want to stay away. Recently,I visited the Canadian Embassy and was amazed that Guyanese are no more anxious to migrate . Remigrants and those visiting are stunned by the rapid development in Georgetown and in the rural areas. The

beautiful five and six storey buildings, which are the best in the Caribbean. Businessmen like Mr. Badal claimed no economic progress but yet wants to buy Marriot for eight million US dollars. How can the PNC change ? These are the same people who contributed, executed and facilitated the PNC to carry out all the atrocities against Guyanese. Look at the campaign. AFC members are on the platform like a pack of brainless wolves , while the PNC members are hiding from the shame of the past. Those who cannot see and comprehend the transformation in Guyana should ask their relatives and visitors to make the comparison. JOEL PERSAUD

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Harper rejects blackmail attempts over son’s court case AN ongoing lawsuit involving Reagan Pollard, son of Mrs Elisabeth Harper, has morphed into attempts at blackmail, according to her. “I strongly reject any attempt to use my political appointment to resolve this matter extra- judicially or to influence the legal direction of the court case,” said the prime ministerial candidate of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C). Three years ago, Pollard’s company, Reflex Mining, benefited from a US$3M loan put up by investors based in the United States of America (USA). However, the agreement reportedly failed to mate-

Mrs Elisabeth Harper

rialise. Non-repayment of the sums invested resulted in legal action. Mrs Harper said: “Since I have been appointed as the PPP/C’s prime ministerial candidate, there have been attempts by a known individual, tantamount to blackmail or political extortion

Reagan Pollard

regarding a legal dispute between my 36-year old son and his former business partners. “…my son is engaged in his own business enterprise. I am aware that he and his former business partners have been in court in Guyana since November 2014 to settle a dispute that has

arisen.” She added that since her nomination as President Donald Ramotar’s running mate in the upcoming May 11 polls, she has been subjected to several “blackmail” attempts. “The several attempts of extortion and blackmail directed at me regarding this case are disturbing,” the PPP/C prime ministerial candidate said. Mrs Harper maintains her support for her son, and underscored her respect for his business independence. “I love my son dearly, and am fully supportive of him. I also respect his business independence,” she said.

Given that the matter is currently before the courts, making it sub judice, the PPP/C prime ministerial candidate declined to comment further on the matter. The following are some of the emails sent the PPP/C prime ministerial candidate: From:guayna election [guyanaelection@gmail. com] Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 8:35 PM To: Elisabeth Anne Harper Subject: APNU/AFC are offering me US$ 5 MM to expose you and your son.... what say you? From: info foru[infoforu61@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, 5 March

2015 10:50 PM To: Elisabeth Anne Harper I will wait for his response. But time is scarce. We don’t have too many options left. We will pull the trigger if we need to. We need our obligation satisfied ASAP. From: info foru[infoforu61@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, 9 March 2015 1:49 PM To: Elisabeth Anne Harper Subject: Re: Acknowledgement We have still not heard back from him. Should we proceed then Elisabeth?

Two Mexicans spearheading ...

From Page 4

tions such as IICA have partnered to further develop the cooperation at the bilateral and regional level.”

He said that he was certain that the training programme on coconut will be of great interest and benefit to Guyana. IICA Representative Wilmot Garnett said that the specialized training

D S C - 2 1 8 0 : D r . Homenauth of NAREI; Mr Wilmot Garnett, IICA Representative; Mr George Jervis, PS Ministry of Agriculture; and Mr Ortega of the Embassy of Mexico at the launch of the coconut training programme yesterday

PPP/C condemns intimidation of activists

INTIMIDATION of the party’s activists and candidates, as well as the destruction of campaign materials across the country, has been condemned in the strongest possible terms by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C). “The party has observed with great concern the bullyism and efforts aimed at intimidating several of its candidates and party activists via electronic mails and telephone calls,” the PPP/C said in a statement yesterday. It said that it has also noticed the “uncouth actions” of persons who have torn down its elections campaign posters, billboards and party flags in several parts of the country, including Georgetown. The ruling party said: “The PPP/C has always championed the freedom of opinion and choice and therefore views these actions of intimidation and destruction as contrary to the spirit of unity, peace and freedom. “Everyone is entitled to his or her freedom of association, political choice and expression in keeping with the laws of Guyana and therefore, we firmly urge those culpable to desist from bullying others because of their political choice.” All considered, the PPP/C called for the demonstration of tolerance, maturity and respect for persons and property to prevail during this campaign season leading up to the May 11 General and Regional elections.

DSC-2150:

A section at

A section at the gathering at the formal launch of the coconut training programme yesterday (Photos by Samuel Maughn) being offered to Guyanese farmers and technicians was a testament to the increased collaboration between the Mexican Government, the Ministry of Agriculture through NAREI and IICA. He remarked that the training being offered will re-enforce the need to inject new technologies, build a genetically diverse plant stock, increase competitiveness and a sustainable coconut industry. Permanent Secretary Mr Jervis described the training as an initiative

to give the coconut industry the importance it deserves. He said: “ We need to move the industry from the ad hoc basis that we currently have, to one of international standards. We need to give coconuts the same attention that we give to rice and sugar.” He said that the programme by the Mexican experts will go a long way towards giving the industry the attention and prominence it deserves. The first training programme ends tomorrow.

President commits benefits, quality healthcare – to injured Albion Estate workers ALL Albion Sugar Estate workers injured yesterday, after the motor lorry they were travelling in toppled, will receive the best care available and will not lose any of the benefits to which they are entitled. This was the commitment of President Donald Ramotar who, in a statement last evening, said, “Our comrades from the sugar industry, particularly our field workers, have been working diligently to keep production on pace with our target. “We continue to be very grateful for the maximal effort being made by the sugar workers in our country. It is my hope that all stakeholders continue to support each other as we work together to overcome the challenges and threats to our industry from both local and international sources.” The Head of State disclosed that, after learning of the accident, he was in touch with management officials from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), as well as subject ministers of his Cabinet. He said, “I was pleased that they (GuySuCo) had already put in place and com-

yesterday visiting with the injured workers and GuySuCo officials. “I am aware that they have been at the hospital and they will work with GuySuCo and the health officials to ensure optimal care,” Mr Ramotar said.

President Donald Ramotar

mitted all necessary resources to ensure quality care and treatment is provided. “I am also in contact with the health sector to ensure that they are able to provide all health interventions necessary for the quick healing of any injury and ensure that those who may need specialist care are able to immediately access all care needed in the short and long-term. “At the same time I have also directed officials within my Government, specifically in the health sector to assist in this regard.” Acting President, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, together with Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, and Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, were on site

SPEEDY RECOVERY He wished those injured a speedy recovery. “It is the hope of myself and Government that those injured make a speedy recovery and their families benefit from the established mechanisms of counselling and assistance in this difficult period.” The President is currently overseas on State business, relative to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government meeting in Jamaica with United States President Barrack Obama. He is also expected to attend the seventh Summit of the Americas in Panama City. “I will continue to monitor the situation while overseas on State business,” he assured. Yesterday’s incident was the first major industrial accident at GuySuCo in more than a year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

21 sugar workers injured after lorry topples at Albion APPROXIMATELY 21 sugar workers from the Albion Sugar Estate suffered minor injuries yesterday morning after the motor lorry transporting them to the cane fields toppled due to the inclement weather. President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Komal Chand confirmed that there were no fatalities, and that the injured workers were rushed to nearby health facilities. According to Chand,“The motor lorry was taking about 50 sugar workers to the fields when it slid, due to the dam becoming muddy following heavy rainfall. The lorry

toppled onto its side, leaving approximately 21 out of the 50 with minor injuries.” Chand said that 18 of the workers were sent home from the hospital after receiving treatment for their injuries, but three remained for further treatment. The GAWU head emphasised that the incident was due to the muddiness of the dam following the heavy rainfall; therefore, he advised that they should not be using that mode of transportation when there is inclement weather. Instead, he urged that passengers’ punts should be used to transport the workers because they are

GAWU’s President, Komal Chand

safer and more suited for the rainy weather.

ECLAC PREDICTS...

Latin America, Caribbean economies to grow 1% in 2015 THE Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has revised downward its economic growth projection for the Region in 2015, forecasting a 1 per cent increase in the regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the United Nations organisation said. This revision reflects a global environment characterised by less economic dynamism than what was expected at the end of 2014. With the exception of the United States, industrialised countries have revised their growth estimates downward, and emerging economies continue to decelerate. The Region is expected to keep economic growth at around the same level as in 2014 (1.1 per cent) according to the ECLAC’s annual report, Preliminary Overview of the Economies

of Latin America and the Caribbean 2014. In the sub-regions, ECLAC forecasts growth of nearly zero for South America, while Central America and Mexico should reach 3.2 per cent and the Caribbean 1.9 per cent. In addition to lower growth in the global economy, there is also an impact from greater international financial volatility due to very expansive monetary policies in Europe and Japan, combined with expectations that the United States will raise interest rates. Meanwhile, the end of the so-called “supercycle” in commodity prices is affecting several countries in the Region negatively. The particularities of the Region’s economies, in terms of their economic structures and their modes

of insertion in the global economy, account for the significant heterogeneity in the magnitude and way in which external shocks have affected them. The growth forecasts for economies specialised in commodities production, particularly oil and minerals, have seen the biggest declines (South America and Trinidad and Tobago), while those with greater links to the U.S. economy, and which benefit from lower crude prices, have the best forecasts: Central America and the English-speaking Caribbean. The countries that will lead the Region’s expansion during 2015 will be Panama, with a 6 per cent increase in its GDP; Antigua and Barbuda (5.4 per cent); and Bolivia, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic (5 per cent).

Haitians in Guyana getting monetary assistance to return home HAITIANS living in Guyana are being offered a sum of €4,000 each if they are desirous of returning home and starting a business to build their future. The money is being offered by the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII) in collaboration with the World Entrepreneurs Association, an organisation specialised in microfinance. According to Haitian news

agency, Haiti Libre, the plan of aid of France to support the Haitian nationals wishing to return home with a business project was presented by Eric Spitz, the Prefect of French Guiana. This amount will be paid to the World Entrepreneurs Association to help project developers, the news agency said. “It helps fund the office rent, a leasehold or equip-

ment,” said Spitz. The World Entrepreneurs Association will not only pay €4,000 to the entrepreneur, it will also accompany his project, for example, through assistance in setting the company or training. Head of Communications of the Consulate of Haiti in Guyana, Daniel Louis-Jacques has insisted that emphasis be placed on agricultural business projects stressing, that “most of our citizens have land in

Haiti, but they lack resources, including logistics, to cultivate them. This system aims to develop agriculture and reduce reliance on imports. This can have a real impact on the economy of Haiti.” Haitian nationals in Guyana who wish to benefit from this assistance, must submit a specific project to the OFII (Lallouette Street, Cayenne). A committee composed of representatives of the OFII,

the Embassy of France in Haiti and World Entrepreneurs Association will meet every month around the projects received. Note that the recipients of this aid will be able to cumulate the existing return aid (support of the ticket, as well as financial support of 500 euros per adult and 150 euros per child), the Haitian news agency said. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies French (INSEE), there are about 33,000 Haitians in Guyana.

The first Haitian immigrants arrived in Guyana in 1963 following extensive damage caused by the passage of Hurricane Flora. The migrants who came here were from the areas of Jacmel, Les Cayes and Daquin in the country where the first successful Black slave revolt happened. From then, many more Haitians have come to these shores, and following the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti in 2010, the Government and people of Guyana gave generously to that country.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

21 escape death as bus topples after slamming car --errant minibus driver still to be charged for 2015 fatal accident

By Leroy Smith RECKLESS driving on Vlissingen Road by 29-year-old minibus driver Mahendra Moonsammy, of 177 Barr Street, Kitty, almost claimed his own life, the lives of 18 passengers, his conductor and that of the Editor-in-Chief of the Guyana Chronicle .

felt an impact that caused his car to bounce back to the right as the bus went airborne, hitting a street sign on landing, and began toppling. Another driver who was travelling behind Ramotar stated that the very minibus almost collided with him while overtaking him and then dashed in front of him to undertake Ramotar’s ve-

zone and came to his school on Parade Street where it usually collects several students. The conductor of the minibus, he asserted, was forcing him to get aboard but he stood his ground, no longer wishing to travel on the bus. Asked for a reason for his decision, the lad said once he was in the vehicle

The upended minibus, wheels aloft

‘Errant Driver’: Mahendra Moonsammy in foreground with the toppled minibus in the background According to several eyewitnesses, they observed the Route 40 minibus, BRR 6950, speeding past several vehicles before the driver finally decided to undertake a black Toyota Verossa motorcar, PSS 9909, which was being driven by Mark Ramotar, Editor-in-Chief of the Guyana Chronicle. At the time, Mr Ramotar was in the process of turning into Lama Avenue, Bel Air (where the Chronicle complex is located) when the minibus slammed his vehicle from the side. Such was the impact of the speeding minibus that it went airborne before landing on its side and toppling a few times, then finally turning turtle. Speaking with this newspaper, Mr Ramotar explained that he had his signal on indicating that he was turning left into Lama Avenue, from Vlissengen Road. He added that he did not expect any vehicle to be undertaking him, since it was very close to the corner; and moreover, because his indicator was on. Ramotar said he suddenly

Mark Ramotar indicates to a traffic rank the position he was in when the minibus slammed into his vehicle (Photos by Samuel Maughn and Carl Croker)

The other driver who confirmed that Mahendra Moonsammy was undertaking several vehicles all at once hicle. A passenger from another minibus which was also travelling behind, and which was seconds before overtaken by said Route 40 minibus, also expressed alarm at the speed the minibus was travelling when it passed him. The young man, who was still clad in his school uniform, said that previously he travelled with the minibus but stopped doing so after observing the manner in which the driver was driving. He even confirmed that earlier yesterday, the minibus drove out of its

and observed the driver’s reckless driving; but when the passengers protested, the driver and his conductor were abusive to them. Persons who are familiar with the driver said that he is an habitually dangerous driver and that apart from last evening’s accident, the man was involved in three other accidents for the year. He was also involved in several accidents last year, according to police sources. That information was also confirmed by police sources that are familiar with

The motorcar, nicknamed ‘Beast’, which Ramotar was driving at the time of the accident investigations into those accidents. Additionally, the man was summoned to the Kitty Police Station and warned by police ranks there on his driving after concerns were raised about it by road users. Meanwhile, in an interesting twist, the Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that Moonsammy was involved in a fatal accident earlier this year when he ran his minibus

over a man and killed him. Moonsammy was not charged for that accident and persons close to the investigation named at least one female police officer and a relative of the errant driver who is also a member of the Guyana Police Force. It is not clear if the status of that investigation has reached the desk of the Divisional Commander Clifton Hicken or Traffic Chief Ian

Amsterdam. One person who was at the scene of the accident even commented on seeing the minibus driver: “Wow boi you should get a licence for accidents.” Also on the scene was former West Indies cricketer, Roger Harper, who condemned what is happening on the streets these days, thanks in no small measure to what is popularly referred to as the ‘the minibus culture’. At the Kitty Police Station, where both Ramotar and Moonsammy were ordered to visit, relatives of the conductor and the driver became very abusive to reporters of the Guyana Chronicle and Ramotar after he was allowed to leave the police station on his own recognisance to return this morning. The minibus driver was placed on $25,000 bail.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Our young leaders OUR future rests in the hands of our youth, and we’re thankful that young Guyanese take such an avid interest in the socio-economic and political well-being of our nation. In the ruling party’s List of Representatives, we see an abundance of young people, with close to fifty percent under the age of 45. The choice of Clinton Urling, whose work with young people across this nation is admirable, to partner with President Donald Ramotar, comes as we look to young leaders to make the difference as we roll up our sleeves to take Guyana to the next level as a 21st century society. We laud Urling for his tremendous leadership in networking bright, ambitious young people in his Blue Caps organisation, and for such leadership initiatives as the clean-up campaign in Georgetown and rallying for local government elections. As an entrepreneur, he’s already led the Chamber of Commerce, and he’s set his mark to play an ambitious, mediating and sensible role in our society. We want emerging leaders and voices like his to come forward, for us to join hands and hearts in the vision of creating the Guyana we want and dream of, the nation that stands out on the world stage. With President Ramotar’s leadership as father figure, stable, humble, and ready to collaborate and cooperate with our young emerging leaders, we’re set on the road to achieving our potential. Our nation today houses mostly young folks, and in fact 15 -24-year-olds make up a whopping 60+ percent of our population. We’re now a full-fledged society of the Millennial Generation. This creates a social space that is absolutely different from five, ten years ago. For one, the memory map of this young generation excludes the socio-econom-

ic horror their parents and grandparents experienced when Guyana was a dictatorship from 1964 – 1992. These young people know life only under the Governments of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). And they see development happening, a transformation of our skyline, a remaking of our communities and social landscape. They also know a Guyana that is global in reach, with their family and friends and relatives scattered across the world, every household having some connection with the Diaspora. The majority of our population today is wired and connected to the global village, through smartphones and laptops and Internet access. In fact, our young now speak well, and in urban centres Guyanese young people today rival anyone anywhere in the world for worldliness, sophisticated taste, fashion sense, and personal style. These young people hardly watch TV, never read the national newspapers, ignore radio, and generally shun traditional mass media. They seek personal connection, and, like everywhere else in the world in this Knowledge Age of technology and high-tech living, they live constantly focused on smartscreen tablets and smartphones. Yet, they are savvy, articulate, intelligent and ready to take on the world. The Guyanese nation today seeks not those primary concerns of bare survival with which we were occupied for several decades. We seek new cars and to build a house on our own land and to cultivate a career. Take Annalisa Beharry, for example. Yet a teenager, she already drives a car, and is studying through an overseas college, plays music in her church, and is quietly playing a role in shaping the future of Berbice. Born and raised in New Amsterdam,

Berbice, she epitomises the new Guyana, where young people see a new horizon. She’s young, ambitious, hard working, and as articulate, stylish and personable as any 19-year old anywhere in the world. Such are the youth of Berbice today. With Government’s new focus on skills development and literacy, we’ll see our young people across the nation use the digital platform at their fingertips to achieve their dreams and aspirations right here in their homeland. Now they go for holiday overseas, and Beharry already experienced New York and Toronto on vacation. They come right back home to live. Countless are our young today who travel abroad and come back home. Countless are our young people with friends online from all over the world. Open digital access opens up the minds and imagination of our people, and the reservoir of imaginative power in our young people like Beharry and the tens of thousands of young Guyanese who look to settle and live in their empowered Guyanese society, promises a great future. While we face some pressing social issues in certain communities, with misguided young people hooked on illegal drugs, in urban depressed areas, espe-

cially around Georgetown, we take note of the positive social space we’ve cultivated for our young people. We want to reach out to those suffering from broken homes, from drug addiction, from mental health issues, and to assist them to find their way in life. Guyana today offers the young person a fantastic opportunity to self-develop, to cultivate a love for reading good books, to go online and become skilled at whatever he or she loves and is passionate about, to ditch the excuses of our past generations and rise up to be counted. Ours is a nation that is free, open, and ready. We’ve created a national social space that offers the individual who’s willing to dream big and aspire for a great life, who wants to live with powerful performance rather than mediocre ordinariness, who wants to rise in the world, to cultivate a love for life-long learning, ever growing and evolving in mental, psychological and emotional development. Such is our Guyana today. Our young people require mentors, life-coaches, teachers, caring souls, to reach out to them, to show them that we’re now firmly a meritocracy, a society where anybody could achieve his or her dreams and aspirations.

While we should be careful not to promise utopia and life without challenges and overcoming of problems and obstacles, for such things build stamina and inner strength and courage, we want our young Guyanese citizens to know that anything’s possible for those willing to play the game, to participate in life, to tackle human nature with gusto and zeal and confidence. Folks like Urling and countless others who take on the responsibility for shaping our future would do well to create a national culture of life-coaching, mentoring and teaching, whereby our young people don’t feel adrift, but could learn the stories and life experiences that would enlighten their minds and hearts. In fact, this is one role our Parliamentarians could play with great impact, rather than just sit around complaining and searching for excuses for their own failures. Our Parliamentarians should fan out into communities across the country after elections, and mentor and life-coach and teach the young to dream the Guyanese Dream, to aspire to the Guyanese potential, to imagine a society of Guyanese as a great people upon the global 21st century stage.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Belle West: A community on the move – compliments of a caring government

BELLE West Phase 1, located on the West Bank of Demerara, is now a thriving community with a 77% occupancy rate. The community was established in 1999 to accommodate 1,124 houselots, and it is situated on the West Bank of the Demerara River, a 20-minute drive from the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB). Government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water, is currently upgrading the community’s roads to asphaltic concrete surface. This growing community also has access to electricity, cellular-phone services, potable water and roads. Contractors, H. Nauth and Sons and Bardon Construction Services, were awarded contracts to upgrade the roads. The projects began on January 22, and are expected to be completed on June 22, 2015. Works are moving apace, and already the socio-economic benefits of having proper road networks are being felt. MEETING THE MINISTER Some time ago, Minister with responsibility for Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, visited the community of Belle West and engaged the residents on certain developmental issues, with one of the major topics being the upgrading of their roads and access bridges. “Residents of Belle West, Canal No. 2 on the West Bank of Demerara, chose to have a concrete access bridge, along with the rehabilitation of four main roads in their community. The decision was made during a

meeting between residents and Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali at the Belle West Multi-Purpose Centre in Region 3,” reads an extract from the meeting. Resident Pamela George, who moved two years ago to Belle West Phase 1 from Wales, another community in Region 3, noted that she is pleased with the level of development in the area, especially the ongoing road works. She is optimistic, in light of the various opportunities that would be available when the works are completed. George related that prior to the road project, Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali had consulted with residents on different developmental projects for the community at the communal multi-purpose building. There, it was decided that having better roads was a priority of the residents. They also signalled the need for a bridge to have improved access to the community. George said that while not all the roads in the community were bad, there were potholes and failure of road surface materials that made commuting difficult during the wet weather. In fact, more vehicles are now traversing the community since the construction works began. Devika Persaud, who operates a small shop in Belle West Phase I, and whose street was already upgraded to asphaltic concrete surface, said prior to the works, hire cars did not traverse there. Additionally, purchasing goods for her small business was challenging, since she was forced to fetch heavy

bags long distances. Reflecting on the development of Belle West Phase 1, Persaud said that when her family moved to the area 14 years ago, there were hardly any houses, and no electricity. Life at that time had seemed hard, but the security of having one’s own home was the comforting factor. BELLE WEST TODAY As time passed, schools and places of worship were constructed, and small businesses began to grow. Within the last five years, there has been an increase in activity, particularly the construction of more houses that led to the transformation of Belle West Phase 1. To satisfy the growing housing demand of more Guyanese, the ministry established Belle West Phase 2 in 2011. Belle West Phase 2 is a smaller scheme created to accommodate 440 lots. Presently, the community has an occupancy rate of 45%. The occupancy level of phase 2 is expected to increase given that the electrical distribution network in the area has been completed. Belle West Phase 2 is one of the schemes under the Government of Guyana/ Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Second Low-Income Settlement Programme. It benefited from the provision or upgrade of infrastructure and the core house pilot, where 59 core houses were constructed benefiting 236 persons. In May, the ministry will commence maintenance works on the roads in Belle West Phase 2. Resurfacing of the roadways will not be done until the occupancy lev-

Various stages of upgrades in Belle West

el increases. In the interim, maintenance works would be done to assist the flow of traffic.

Creating these housing establishments is costly, but investment in family is priceless. The ministry

is proud to have provided families with an asset that could be passed on from one generation to another.

Vagrant begs magistrate to jail him – so he could get food, and a warm bed CHRIS (no surname given), a 50-year-old vagrant who allegedly stole a bicycle worth $20,000, property of Lester Caesar, ap-

peared Wednesday before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore on a simple larceny charge, and was fined $20,000.

The prosecution’s case was that on April 7, at Kitty, Georgetown, Chris stole the bike. Chris pleaded guilty to

the charge, telling the magistrate: “I saw the bike, which was parked by a house, and I snatch it. However, someone later thief it back from me.” Magistrate Azore informed Chris that if he failed

to pay the fine, he would have to spend a month at the Camp Street Prison. Upon receiving that piece of advice, Chris threw himself down in the prisoner’s dock and

begged for the opportunity to get food and a warm bed. The action of prostrating himself, however, caused him to give the courtroom a grand flash of his genitals.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

GTA stages another successful – at Number kite-flying competition 63 Beach AS thousands gathered on #63 Beach for the traditional kite-flying and family fun day, the Ministry of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) also hosted their annual kite-flying competition. According to the GTA, the competition saw entries

for the largest, smallest and most unusual kite and the event was the highlight of activities on the beach, attracting a large crowd. The annual competition featured 14 competitors in the three categories, while a prize-giving ceremony was held to honour the winners and rec-

ognise their creations. A total of 14 persons participated in the competition: Six represented the Smallest Kite Category, two represented the Largest Kite Category and six represented the Most Unusual Category. Whilst visiting the popular Easter spot, Pres-

ident Donald Ramotar presented trophies to the winners of the Kite-Flying competition, noting that the creativity of Guyanese is unmatched. The Head of State was warmly received by beach-goers who greeted him with hugs and kisses, while others clamoured for

The largest Kite in the country prepares for take-off

photo opportunities In the Smallest Kite Category, Ms. Felicity Smith was the winner with a kite measuring 0.6 cm x 0.6cm and depicting a Guyana flag. She received a trophy and an Essequibo River tour for two. In the Largest Kite Category, Mr. Keerat Tassim was the winner with a kite measuring 325 cm. He received a trophy and a trip to Kaieteur; this may have also been the largest kite in the country. In the Most Unusual Kite Category, Ms. Nandranie Kishun was the winner with

a circular kite measuring 50 cm x 50cm; she received a Night for Two at City Inn and a trophy as prize. The GTA Director, Indranauth Haralsingh lauded the efforts of the team whose hard work made the occasion successful and thanked the patrons and participants for coming out and making the event a successful one. He also recognised the efforts of the 63 Beach Committee and the Region 6 Administration for their efforts to ensure that this year’s activity was safe, clean and fun.

Known convict sentenced to 24 months – for robbing, assaulting Russian tourist

KNOWN convict Michael White, of Lot 177 Triumph, East Coast Demerara, appeared Wednesday before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, charged w i t h ro b b i n g R u s s i a n tourist Vokou Vischesar of a gold chain valued US$500, the equivalent of G$100,000, on March 5 at High Street, Georgetown. In addition to that, at time of the incident, before or immediately after, White is alleged to have made use of personal violence on the Russian. The prosecution’s facts are that Vischesar, a Caucasian who resides in Russia, was wearing the article mentioned in the charge whilst taking photographs of the city of Georgetown on the day in question at around 11:15 hrs. The court heard that White snatched the Russ i a n ’s g o l d c h a i n , a n d

when the Russian looked at him, White became annoyed and dealt the Russian several cuffs about his body. White then attempted to run away, but public spirited persons caught him and immediately summoned the police. A search carried out on White’s person at the Brickdam Police Station recovered the chain in his mouth, and he was subsequently charged for the offence. The unrepresented White told the court that he had indeed taken the chain from Vischesar, but did not hit him. White informed the court that he had come out of prison only last month, after spending 30 months in jail for a break-and-enter offence. He was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment for the offence.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

WITH CLESTINE JUAN & GEETA RAMPERSAUD

Businessman remanded Man fined for marijuana possession for illegal possession of firearm, ‘ammo’ – ordered to do two months’ community service

FORTY-one-year-old businessman, Harrinarine Persaud, an unlicensed firearm holder, appeared Wednesday before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, charged with illegal possession of a .45 semi-automatic Smith and Wesson pistol and three live rounds of matching ammunition. Police Prosecutor Simone Payne detailed that, acting

on a tip-off, a party of police ranks went to Persaud’s business premises at Arau Landing, Wenamu River, on April 4, and conducted a search in the presence of the businessman and others. The gun with the ammunition was found on a table. Persaud was told of the offence, and he confessed that the gun belonged to him. Persaud pleaded not

guilty to the charges and submitted an application for bail through his attorney, Mark Thompson; but the prosecutor objected to bail on ground of the seriousness and prevalence of the offence. Bail was refused, and the matter has been transferred to the Kamarang Magistrate’s Court for June 15.

Vagrant from ‘Frisco’ refused bail on wounding charge STEPHAN Lover, a vagrant, appeared Wednesday before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, accused of wounding a man. He was refused bail after he told the magistrate that he lives in San Francisco. He, however,

denied that on April 7, at Brickdam and Alexander Streets, he unlawfully wounded Christopher Darim. Police Prosecutor Simone Payne did not reveal the facts to the court, but asked that if bail is granted to the vagrant, it should be

in a substantial amount. But asked by the magistrate for his address, Lover gave her a conflicting place of abode. He was therefore remanded to prison until April 13, when he will appear before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

THIRTY-three–year–old labourer Ordelle Adams, of Lot 31 Station Street Kitty, Georgetown, appeared Wednesday before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, charged

with possession of narcotics. The court heard that on April 6 at Water Street, Georgetown, he had in his possession 2¾ grammes of marijuana.

Adams pleaded guilty to the charge, and was fined $5,000. He was also ordered to perform six months’ community service at the Kitty Police Station.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

WITH CLESTINE JUAN & GEETA RAMPERSAUD

Court to decide on retrial, or sentencing – in Samuel Hinds Jnr. matter ACCORDING to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), based on the facts of the case in the Samuel Hinds Jr. matter, the issue is whether the guilty verdict by the previous magistrate is a final adjudication.

According to law, a final adjudication is a verdict plus sentencing. Attorney-at-law for Samuel Hinds Jnr, Mr. Peter Hugh, cried Autrefois Convict (a plea made by a defendant indicted for a crime that he has formerly

been tried and convicted of the same). Defence counsel said his client pleaded to both offences and was convicted (guilty verdict), and cannot be tried twice for the same offence. The matter was adjourned,

and on the next occasion, the court will decide whether there will be a retrial or sentencing. Presiding over the matter is Magistrate Annette Singh, and representing the prosecution is Police Corporal Renetta Bentham. Samuel Hinds Jnr. is the son of Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. He was found guilty of unlawful wounding on February 6 by Former Magistrate, Ms

Geeta Chandan-Edmond. He was scheduled to be sentenced by the former magistrate on February 20 last; but on that same day, Magistrate Chandan– Edmond was dismissed by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The 33-year-old Hinds, a miner by profession and of Lot 83 Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown, was found guilty of wounding his teenaged sister-

in-law Tenza Layne, after he accused her of stealing his phone. He is currently out on bail. On the day in question, February 27, 2014, Hinds and the victim had an argument over the missing cell phone, and he reportedly stomped Layne before dragging her on the ground and beating her with a cane. He then brandished a gun, cranked it, and threatened to kill her.

Escapee from lawful custody remanded until April 13 TWENTY-nine-year-old Quacy Glasgow of Lot 687 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown appeared on Tuesday, April 7, before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore to answer to a charge of escaping from lawful custody of the police. Particulars of the charge, to which Glasgow pleaded not guilty, are that on February 27, whilst being in lawful custody in relation to a matter of rob-

bery-under-arms, he escaped from the police. Glasgow told the court that he was heading home from work when the police confronted him, held him, and braced him to their van before cranking their gun. He said he shrugged the policeman off and sped off on foot because he was not aware of what was happening. The police gave chase, and he was finally caught and ar-

rested. Assistant Police Superintendent Stephen Telford objected to Glasgow being granted pre-trial liberty by declaring that the defendant is currently facing three matters of robbery-under-arms, and if bail is granted, the likelihood exists that Glasgow would not return for his trial. Glasgow was refused bail, and the matter was adjourned to April 13.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

PPP/C Better Hope meet sees ‘massive’ turnout --hears Culture Minister plug ‘Guyana 2.0’

By Navendra Seoraj “I PROMISE you all: Once given the chance, we will work towards this vision (Guyana 2.0).” This was the call from People’s Progressive Party/ Civic PPP/C member, Dr. Frank Anthony, who touted the Party’s vision, which is outlined in excerpts of its manifesto, ‘Guyana 2.0’ that was made public, Sunday. Addressing a massive crowd at the Better Hope Market Tarmac, East Coast Demerara (ECD), on Wednesday evening, he pointed to the success of the PPP/C Administration over the years, particularly in the areas of education and health, as well as the sustained economic progress under the stewardship of his party. These areas are included in the central themes of ‘Guyana 2.0. The full list of issues includes: Economic Growth: Jobs, Income & Wealth Creation; Transformative Infrastructure; Enhancing the Well-Being of Our People; Fighting Crimes & Protecting Our People; Fair Governance; and Guyana in a Modern World. The preview of the PPP/C manifesto details a vast number of policies and measures that are centered

on these themes, which will be pursued. Policies and measures undertaken in the last 22 years were all addressed, in turn contributing to the development of both Guyana’s Education and Health Sectors. Elaborating more on the advancements in education, Dr Anthony emphasised the fact that Guyana has been able to achieve the objectives of MDG (Millennium Development Goal) 3, namely Universal Primary Education, which proves that all children of primary age have access to a primary school, as opposed to the past under the People’s National Congress (PNC), where children weren’t even allowed to have a proper education. “Today, students have access to not only secondary education but also tertiary education at the university level, which many persons have utilised and graduated to a higher level… The next aim for the PPP/C Administration is to achieve the MDG for Secondary education; and I promise you all, once given the chance, we will work towards this vision,” he said. Apart from the Education Sector, Dr Anthony also boasted about the advance-

ments in the Health Care Services that are offered across Guyana. He highlighted that “These days a health centre could be found in every region across Guyana, where persons can go and receive proper care and medical attention, whereas, before 1992 rats could be seen running around in the hospitals and only lucky persons could get treated promptly and properly.” According to the him, progress was stagnated for the past three years due to the blockages of projects by the

alliance of A Partnership For National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU + AFC), some of which included the Specialty Hospital and the Amaila Falls Hydro Project which would have proven beneficial to the Guyanese public. “Nevertheless, when we gain the majority come May 11, the entire Guyana will enjoy the benefits of these and other developmental projects,” said Dr. Anthony, urging the gathering to vote PPP/C on May 11 if they want to see continued progress and development.

A view of the gathering on Wednesday evening at the PPP/C’s Public Meeting

Manslaughter accused says...

‘I’ve served my sentence’

--yet he’s being kept in custody By George Barclay MANSLAUGHTER accused Mark Wong is complaining that he has completed serving his sentence but is yet being kept in penal custody. As a result of this complaint, the Chief Justice, Mr Ian Chang SC, representing the Constitutional Administrative Law Division, will meet today to hear an application of Mark Wong for a writ of Certiorari. The Notice of Motion will ask the Chief Justice for the following orders:(a) An order or Rule Nisi of

Certiorari, directed to the PAROLE BOARD of Guyana, duly constituted under the Parole Act, Cap 11:08 of the Laws of Guyana, and the Director of the Georgetown Prison, Camp Street, to hear and grant the applicant’s petition for release from the Georgetown Prison on Oicence; (b) Such further Order as the Honourable Court may deem just. The grounds in support of the Originating Motion are:(1) The applicant has been in the custody of the State since March, 2004 -- A period of 11 years.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony during his address to the gathering (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

(2) In March, 2004, at Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank, Demerara, the applicant was in a bar when he was attacked by Kurt Bacchus, deceased, and hit on his head with an empty rum bottle. He immediately reacted and hit the said deceased with a piece of wood, a blow from which Bacchus died. (3) The applicant was charged with murder, but at the close of the preliminary inquiry, Magistrate Adrian Thompson found that only s case of manslaughter had been made out by the prosecution, committed the applicant for manslaughter, and granted bail in the sum of $150,000. (4) On 17th October, 2006, the applicant was indicted for murder by the Director of Public Prosecutions, and his case was listed for hearing.

(5) On 31st May, 2007, before Justice Y. Cummings, a jury found the applicant guilty of murder. (6) On 3rd February, 2009, a Court of Appeal reduced the crime of murder to one of manslaughter, and sentenced the applicant to 12 years’ imprisonment, which is equal to 108 months in prison time. (7) The applicant served 1 year and nine months on Death Row, distasteful and inhuman experience, according to applicant’s counsel Mr. Jainarayan Singh, a former High Court Judge. (8) Counsel who prepared the Notice of Motion declared “the normal 1/3 remission of sentence the applicant is now entitled to Parole on Licence, but the

PAROLE Board has refused to hear his application. (9) The applicant has now served a prison sentence for the following period: 17th October, 2006 to March, 2015 -- 8 years 5 months which, in terms of prison years, is equal to 101 months. 101/9 = 11 years 2 months (10) With a 1/3 remission of his jail sentence, the applicant should already have served his full sentence. (11) There is no reason on record, either at the Georgetown prison or elsewhere, why the applicant should not be released. The Notice of Motion was filed by Mr. Jainarayan Singh, Attorney–atlaw.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Essequibo farmer projects...

Rice industry will continue to bloom, grow bigger --once PPP/C continues in office

RICE farmer Chate Narine of Paradise Village on the Essequibo Coast is confident that the rice industry will continue to bloom and grow bigger and bigger once the PPP/C continues in office. Mr Narine said under the PPP/C Government the industry has developed and he sees a bright future for rice once the PPP/C is elected to office again on May11. The farmer said that production has grown to some 5,000 tons on the Essequibo Coast and has praised the Government and the Guyana Rice Development Board [GRDB] for educating him and other farmers on the six- point practice system through the farmers field school. He said the six-point system has proven very successful for him and he is currently enjoying yields of between 35 to 38 bags per acre in areas which had never given such yields. He said the yield per acre in other fertile areas is between

48 to 50 bags. PRICES Mr Narine said the prices offered this crop are a bit low and called for Government to play a bigger role where prices and payments to farmers are concerned. He said the millers should have money to pay farmers promptly for their produce and added that he is disappointed with the current prices offered. The farmer said over the past 22 years, the PPP/C Government has transformed the rice industry in the country. He said on the Essequibo Coast the amount of acreage under cultivation has increased to more than 38,000 and will continue to increase once the PPP/C continues in Government. TRANSFORMATION On October 5, 1992 ,when the PPP/C took over the Government after winning the National and Regional Elections, the rice

Sparta farmer, Mr Jagmohan at his rice field near the Lamaha Canal aback Windsor Castle on the Essequibo Coast while culverts , box kokers concrete and steel reinforced Government has done well, and timber bridges were in culverts, revetments and and that he too sees a bright poor condition through lack bridges were constructed future for the industry under of maintenance. to give farmers facilities to the PPP/C. The PPP/C Government cultivate their fields with The farmer, who is 73 over the past 22 years has rice. Access dams were also years old, said the rice inspent large sums to have a upgraded with sand and dustry could only reach very efficient and reliable loam, so farmers could trans- its true potential under the drainage and irrigation net- port their produce quickly to PPP/C, and that he has alwork across the rice- grow- factories after harvesting. ready endorsed the party to ing areas on the Essequibo A farmer of Sparta, Mr win at the May 11 elections. Coast. In every area, new Jagmohan, said the PPP/C (Rajendra Prabhulall)

Rice farmer, Mr Chate Narine industry in the country was on its knees. Production was some 90 tonnes and farmers had abandoned their fields on the Essequibo Coast. The drainage and irrigation system under the PNC Government was terrible, drainage and irrigation canals were blocked and silted up with weeds and bushes. Access dams were in bad condition

ELECTIONS FLASHBACK!!!

PPP protests rigged elections by the PNC

MASS numbers of Guyanese took to the streets to protest the cycle of rigged elections under the Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Congress administration. International reports on the electoral process of that year have concluded that the 1973 polls were not free and fair.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Murder trial of vulcanizing shop proprietor continuing

By George Barclay

DONALD Mopp, proprietor of a vulcanizing shop at Tucville Squatting area, is alleged to have stabbed 34-year-old Winsel Roger Edwards to death on September 15th 2013. The accused is reported

to have told the police that he did not know exactly what happened when the allegation of murder was put to him by Constable Eon Prince. Prince also said that when he and other policemen visited the scene that day, the accused was sitting

on a stool near a table on which there was a bottle with a white substance, but he could not tell whether it was rum or water. Earlier the constable had testified that the accused appeared to him to be under the influence of liquor and when asked why he came to

that conclusion, witness answered, “because he smelt of alcohol.” Constable Prince had also said that he had found on the premises a broken knife blade and a plastic black handle with a broken blade, which matched the blade that was found, the

witness said in an answer to Prosecutrix Stacy Goodings. And in answer to defence lawyer Deborah Kumar, the policeman, who collected the knife handle and blade as exhibits for analyst examination, said he could not remember seeing any substance looking like blood on the exhibits. According to the witness the exhibits were forwarded for matching fingerprints. The witness also agreed with defence counsel Ku-

mar that the finding of a knife blade on the premises should not be considered strange, since a blade of the kind could be considered as a tool in the trade. A witness had also spoken about attending a postmortem and seeing earlier a hole in the top part of the abdomen of the deceased from which tissues were protruding. The hearing continues. Madame Justice Roxanne George is presiding at the trial.

Jury empanelled yesterday for Dallon Glasford murder trial TWELVE members of the jury were yesterday empanelled to try Dellon Glasgow for the alleged murder of Jules Walker between the 10th and 11th of August, 2013. Attorney-at-law Naris-

sa Leander is prosecuting while Raymond Ali of Berbice is defending. Justice Navindra Singh is presiding at the trial. The hearing is continuing.

Grove resident remanded on firearm, ‘ammo’ charge T H I RT Y- f i v e - y e a r- o l d Adrian Adonis, of Lot 491 Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, appeared Wednesday before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, charged with unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition. He pleaded not guilty to both charges, one of which detailed that on Monday, April 6, at Campbellville Housing Scheme in Georgetown, he had in his possession one 9mm pistol when he was not the holder of a firearm licence. Particulars of the other charge detail that on the same day, at Campbellville Housing Scheme, he had in his possession 5 live rounds

of matching ammunition without being the holder of a firearm licence. Police Prosecutor Simone Payne, told the court that, on the day in question, police were on patrol duty when they saw the defendant with a gun in his hand. The ranks gave chase and caught Adonis with the weapon. The unrepresented man was denied a pretrial liberty after the prosecutor cited the seriousness and prevalence of the offence. He was remanded to prison, and will make his next court appearance before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on April 13.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

CID officer commits suicide on Essequibo Coast A 42-year-old CID officer attached to the Anna Regina Police Station on the Essequibo Coast has committed suicide. According to reports, the officer, Leono Partick, called Neville, drank a quantity of gramoxone poison around midday Tuesday and was rushed to the Suddie Hospital where he died during the night. Reports said the detective, who grew up at Dredge

Creek, Pomeroon, lived at the Anna Regina New Housing scheme. He has left to mourn his wife, four children, his parents and other relatives. The tragic death of the detective has left villagers and family members in shock and grief. Reports said family members are baffled as to why the detective ended his life. It is believed that he had personal problems.

Swollen body of miner recovered from Pomeroon River THE swollen body of 23year- old miner Kelton Benjamin, of Coffee Grove, Essequibo Coast, was recovered from the Pomeroon River around 2:30 am Wednesday by relatives

and friends who spent the entire night looking for him along the river. This followed a collision between two boats. The body was taken to the Suddie funeral parlour

where a post-mortem will be performed. The body was discovered not far from where the accident occurred Sunday night. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

Three teens battling for life in Suddie Hospital THREE teenagers are battling for their lives in the Suddie Hospital on the Essequibo Coast. Reports said 16 year old Mahesh Tikalall of the Anna Regina housing scheme is hospitalised after drinking a poisonous substance. Reports said the teenager, who quit secondary school some 18 months ago, and ingested the poison after experiencing problems with his girlfriend and parents.

And16-year-old Naresh Arjoon of Wakenaam is also battling for his life in the Suddie hospital. It is said that the teenager drank a a herbicide because of personal problems. And then a 14- year-old student of Spring Garden is also hospitalised after inhaling poisonous fumes while spraying a rice field. Reports said he did not wear protective clothing nor a respirator while spraying. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Janet Jagan remembered as mother of the nation --at Anna Regina wreath laying ceremony

Aries Luck and prosperity lie within your grasp now. The only problem is that you might not notice because you’re so caught up in some emotional drama that occupies your entire being. Don’t concern yourself with issues that don’t directly pertain to you. Your time and energy are too precious. Keep your mind focused on your biggest goals. Taurus You may fall into a bottomless pit today. Be careful about offering so much of yourself that you drain your internal resources. You might think other people will be equally generous about offering themselves to you. Don’t assume this. You’re better off assuming that you will get nothing in return. Play your cards from this standpoint and you may be a bit more conservative Gemini Don’t just talk about grand trips around the world - start planning them. If you don’t start saving your resources and reserving blocks of time for your dreams, they may never come true. Today is a good time to set things in motion. Your attitude is likely to be more flexible, and you will find that this way of thinking will bring you to the people and places that can help you the most. Cancer

Minister Jennifer Webster and Alli Baksh, along with General Secretary of the WPO Ms Sheila Veerasammy and Region 2 Chairman Mr Parmanand Persaud after laying wreaths FORMER President of Guyana and founder of the Women’s Progressive Organisation [WPO] the late Ms Janet Jagan was remembered as the mother of the nation at a moving wreath laying ceremony on Saturday at the Cheddi Jagan children’s play park at Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast. Speaking at the ceremony to mark the 6th death anniversary of the President, member of the Central Executive Committee of the PPP, Mr Alli Baksh, said the late Janet Jagan who served Guyana as President fought alongside her husband Cheddi for the freedom of Guyana from colonial masters. According to Baksh, he first met her in 1968 when he was introduced to her at their home at Cotton Field , Essequibo Coast by his father. Mr Baksh said at that time the Michael Forde book shop was being set up at their place. Mr Baksh said he remembered the late Janet getting the nick name “Blue eyes Bow-gee”at a Yaag at Land of Plenty on the Essequibo Coast. He said she attended the Hindu function and spent the entire day and while addressing the large gathering of devotees, she got the name “blue eyes bowgee”. According to the Minister, Janet came from a Jewish family and dedicated her entire life to the struggle and freedom of Guyana. He said the late President was charged many times along with her husband, Cheddi Jagan, who was also President of Guyana, for fighting for workers rights. Mr Baksh said Janet was very instrumental and

a close political colleague to her husband Cheddi. He said they both formed the People’s Progressive Party [PPP] on the 1st January, 1950, and also the Rice Producers Association [RPA] to represent farmers interests. Mr Baksh said Janet also formed the Women Progressive Organisation [WPO] to fight for women rights. Minister of Human Services, Ms Jennifer Webster, in her address to the gathering at the park said Janet was a great woman and a great example

as to how women should be. The Minister said Janet came to Guyana during the colonial days and the freedom Guyanese now enjoy came out of the struggles of the late Janet and her husband Cheddi. She said because of the struggles of the late Janet and Cheddi, today women is recognised in Guyana and have a right to vote at elections. They are owners of their own homes and have opportunities to study and develop themselves.

Think of yourself as a great pioneer crossing the frontier for the first time. Acknowledge yourself as the important person that you are. Believe in yourself and your rights and opinions. Indecision could hinder your actions. Don’t let it. Take an active stance at all times. Be brave in the face of hardships that you might confront today. You will be greatly rewarded when you do. Leo Make sure you keep up your end of the bargain today. People are counting on you whether you realise it or not. You may get the idea that you can sneak out of responsibility if you lay low and not say a word. The fact of the matter is that people are watching you and they will know when you haven’t upheld your promises to the group. Virgo You may feel tension in your world today without really knowing why. This feeling of conflict may have your stomach in knots, making it difficult to deal with anything or anyone in a rational manner. Try not to take everything personally when people disapprove of your actions. Their reaction is to your behaviour, not necessarily to you as a person. Libra Don’t downplay your abilities now. You’re on the brink of greatness, so act like it. Things should go quite well if you let them. Don’t clog up the works by thinking that you’re unworthy of the good luck that is sure to come your way. If things don’t work out exactly the way you want them to, take it as a sign that the situation wasn’t right for you anyway. Scorpio Take a leap of faith today. Consider taking two or three. Trust that things will follow through perfectly. You will be drawn to those who put a smile on your face. These are the people you need to stick close to now. A positive attitude will lead you in a positive direction. Have fun with your life instead of getting depressed by it. Sagittarius When others can’t seem to decide which way to proceed, it will become crucial that you stand up and be the deciding force. Be as aggressive as you need to be today in order to set things in motion. The elements are already in place. What’s needed now is a bit of follow-through. You’re in the perfect position to provide this missing piece of the puzzle. Capricorn Your head may be going in a thousand different directions today. You may not have much time to stop and think about your next move. Things will come up suddenly and you will need to be able to react quickly. The faster you move, the less time you will have to react. For this reason, you may want to consider a side route where things are flowing a bit more slowly. Aquarius You’re apt to feel emotionally brave today, so take advantage of this feeling by extending it to the people around you. Try not to get anxious or jump ahead of yourself. Enjoy where you are at this very moment. Don’t get stressed about things you feel you need to do. Be happy with yourself regardless of what you end up accomplishing. Pisces Your biggest dream is in front of you, yet there’s a large object standing in your path. When you peer around one way, the goal is only partly visible. When you peer around the other way, the other side of the dream becomes clear, but you still don’t have the complete picture. Instead of working with obscured vision, get rid of the thing that’s lying directly in your path.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

CURTIS ‘CASUAL’ ARMSTRONG JOINS IMPRESSIVE CAST AS NEW HOST ON HJ 94.1 BOOM FM RADIO GUYANESE broadcasting pundit Curtis ‘Casual’ Armstrong, well known for changing the radio landscape with his refreshing voice and pointed interactions with guests, has joined HJ 94.1 Boom FM Radio. Casual will host ‘The Afternoon Lockdown’, a daily afternoon show previously hosted by Kerwin Bollers, with selecting by Entertainer Dwight Ferguson. Mr. Armstrong also comes with his DJ, Negus ‘Seen Up’ McFarlane, known as a front-running selector with Slingerz Entertainment. Joining Armstrong each afternoon on HJ 94.1 Boom FM Radio is the lone fixture of the show, Macaela ‘The Remix Chick’ Cameron, who has fascinated audiences with her unique voice, infectious laughter, and to-the-point articulation on topical issues. Curtis Casual Armstrong, who broadcasted for the first time on the station on Friday, March 20th, said: “It is a privilege to bring The Afternoon Lockdown with Casual and The Remix Chick to listeners in Guyana.” He also said it was a long time in the making, and that he had sometimes doubted whether it would happen; but he was beyond happy to join HJ 94.1 Boom FM Radio The daily afternoon show will be packed with various segments, interviews, the daily scoop; and most importantly, there will be spun today’s very best cross section of music, plus all of our favourite classics from the 80s, 90s and the new millennium. Directors of HJ 94.1 Boom FM Radio, as well as Mr. Armstrong’s peers, are very happy to welcome him to the Boom Family. The Afternoon Lockdown is on air weekdays from 4pm to 6pm.

hrs in the night! Was this woman in her right senses? When the poor child seemed to be all burned out and tired, she was still in the act of goading him to continue. Poor child…. Shame! Shame!! Shame on this disgraceful mother!!! When will our mothers ‘get some common sense’ and learn that their children should be properly disciplined and know their places whether in the home or on the street? Well, if de lil bai mumma ain’t gat manners, wha yuh expect from de chile? Talk about child abuse…. Is some ah dese same mothers who does staat de whole dutty thing!!

Excitement rises as ‘Moussy Malt Colour Your Life’ fever continues

! ! t! a h T o D ’t n ld u o h You S Some moddahs does shame and disgrace de society

OME mothers will certainly continue to be a disgrace to society, and can even become potentially dangerous to the very existence of their own children. Take, for instance, a Victoria, East Coast Demerara mother who had the gall to take this three-yearold ‘toddler’ to a very loud and raucous event at the Buxton Ground. When I realized what was going on, I became aghast that, while she was gyrating wantonly with a hot pants riding very high on her rear end, She was loudly pushing and encouraging this young child to pull up his jersey and ‘wine down’ for an equally lawless group of East Coast women. My readers, it was after 21:00

Tel Contact: 616-0301/ 6996156

Wouldn’t it be better to teach him Math and proper English than to teach him to become a proverbial santapee?

NTRIES have more than doubled from last year’s Colour Your Life Promotion, and people are definitely endorsing the Moussy Malt as their number 1 choice of malt beverage. The 2nd drawing was held on 4th April 2015 at the Bounty Supermarket on Water St., and scores of people rushed to have their last entries placed in the box before the drawing began. As the time loomed for the drawing, hope and excitement were evident on the faces of everyone in the crowd. And as the wheel was spun to select the winners of the 40-inch Samsung smart TV, or the $20,000 worth in groceries, or $US 50 cash, everyone was salivating in anticipation of their name being called! At the end of it all, the first prize winner was Hansrani Mittlehozer of Cummings Lodge, ECD, who got the Samsung 40-inch Smart TV; Sheik Khudadin of Mahaicony, ECD, who won the second prize of $20,000 worth of groceries; and Naraine Singh Samuels from Better Hope, ECD, who won the third prize of US$50 cash! They had all submitted multiple entries! That is reason enough to show people are happy to be a part of the Colour Your Life Promotion 2015, and the dream of winning the grand prize of

$1,000,000 cash in the final draw is the hope of many! You, too, can enter to win! The next drawing is slated for Berbice on the 11th April 2015 at J’s Supermarket in New Amsterdam. Entry is simple: all you need do is submit three Moussy Malt caps with your name, number and address on an envelope and place them in any of the Colour Your Life Boxes at any major supermarket/store that has the CYL box. Meanwhile, the Carlsberg Beer Special continues today at Gravity Lounge from 4-7pm; then it moves to the 704 Sports Bar from 7-10 pm. The Hibiscus Lounge will also be hosting their promo from 7-9 pm. The fun begins with great Carlsberg offers from 8-10 pm at the Garage Grill (South Ruimveldt), while the Red Bar (Garnet Street and Vissengen Road) will host their all night offers. The Aracari Resort (Versailles, WBD), G-Spot Bar (Sandy Babb Street, Kitty), Purple Heart Bar, (Charity) and the Tile Bar (Zorg, Essequibo) will also be staging all-night offers. Tomorrow all roads lead to Seeram’s Bar and G-Spot Bar for all night offers, thence to 704 Sports Bar from 7-10 pm. The Red Bar will be staging all-night offers. The all-night action continues at the Aracari Resort, Tile Bar, and Purple Heart Bar.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Bombshell’s Hottest Babes…

BIG NAMES EXPECTED

Shannie Singh is the TO GRACE GUYANA IN 2015 INCLUDE Bombshell dream girl C H R O N I X X , MACHEL, RIHANNA

EVERY man dreams of having the perfect woman come into his life, and would most definitely want her to come in a ‘package’ reeking of sauciness, great sex appeal, and distinct sophistication. While our ‘Bombshell Babe’ this week possesses all these qualities, she also tops the cake by sprinkling enticing portions of intelligence, creativity, sensual allure, and provocative charisma on her personality. This 21-year-old bubbly damsel strangely enjoys chasing pond flies in wide open pastures, and can yet somehow still transform into a ‘sexy siren’ that will certainly ‘make your teeth sweat’. Shannie adores travelling, dancing, and meeting creative individuals; she has her sights set on the finer things of life. Shannie is, of course, single. She is an ambitious customs broker on the local shores. While she still awaits her dream guy to come along, focusing on higher education is her ultimate goal. If you think you are ‘Mr. Right’ GENTLEMEN, then please email her at hinata8585@yahoo.com This invitation is extended exclusively to GENTLEMEN. Hooligans, please take note!

Bombshell’s Fashion Gurus THERE are some dudes who manage to make quite arresting fashion statements wherever they go. Be it in slacks and t-shirt, or boxers and slippers, these dudes prove that they are born to be fashion gurus every time!!! And the Nu Era song group duo is no exception. Kishaun Doobay and ‘the Sugar Daddy’ Brandon Facey, as his partner prefers to be called, certainly turned heads recently when they ventured out in these really hot Sonia Noel designs. These guys surely rocked, and you can, too, simply by dressing to impress in readiness for the Bombshell cameras.

GUYANA will be hosting its National and Regional Elections shortly; but, soon after, Hits and Jams Entertainment will be rolling out its 2015 master plans in collaboration with Mc Neil Enterprise. There are several mega-events the groups are discussing presently that will further boost the entertainment industry and the quality of entertainment in Guyana. In 2015, there are several international acts that Guyanese are longing to see perform in Guyana. With these in mind, the Hits and Jams Family will be stepping up a notch in the latter part of the year. Kerwin Bollers, during a telephone interview with the Guyana Times Entertainment, stated that discussions are already underway with several artistes, and the outcomes will make Guyanese quite happy. He recalled that, after conducting several polls, there are five artistes that Guyanese would like to see in 2015. These include international R&B singer Usher; Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan; the super sexy Rihanna; Machel Montano, and Jamaican Rising Reggae Star Chronixx. If all goes well, according to scoops, Chronixx might be the headlining act

Riannah

Machel Montano at the official opening of the Hits and Jams Water Park at Providence, East Bank Demerara sometime in May. The others will perform at several super concerts before the end of 2015. Guyanese will now have to keep their fingers crossed and hope that these discus-

sions go down well with the respective artistes and their managers. Last year, Guyanese would have seen several top quality artistes, including John Legend and others. Guyana, it’s time to brace yourself for an experience of a lifetime!

Sixth Annual Car & Bike Show slated for Parika Ground on 11/4

These are men with electric fashion tastes

WITH every intention of giving patrons their money’s worth, the TO-TO Gas Station will be staging the 6th Annual Car & Bike Show on April 11, 2015 at the Parika Centre Ground. While the event is expecting a great influx of ‘steamy’ newcomers, fans are urged to come out to witness clashes involving 2014 defending champions ‘Red Jet’ as they strive to cart off the top honours again. In the Open Extreme Category’, the prize up for grabs is $100,000, a trophy,

and a bottle of Hennessy. Folks will battle in the ‘Mini Extreme’ category for the top prize of $50,000, a trophy, and a bottle of Black Label liquor. In the ‘Mini Extreme Face-In’, the prize will be $50,000, a trophy and a bottle of Absolute Vodka. Music for the event will be supplied by Slingerz Family, 71 Sounds, and DJ Magnum; while the ‘Wickeedee Boss’, Malcolm Pereira, while also be showcasing.

Gate will be opened from 4 pm. This event, so far, is sponsored by Stag Beer, Ruben Sawmill, A.Forrester Lumber Yard, Chico Cargo Boat Service, To-To Gas Station & Sand and Stone Depot, Big Shawn Cargo Boats, and Fazie’s Collection. On board also are the Trophy Stall, Star Car Auto Sales, Extra Energy Drink, Two Brothers Mining, and Benjie’s Dock Yard & Tug and Bart Service (Parika).

Miss Bootilicious fever is engulfing Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

HE streets and byways, and even the shops and stores of Guyana, are being engulfed with a new fever; and everyone seems to be enjoying its intensity. The new fever is parching the lips of all the males, and even scorching their bodies with its red-hot molten sensuality. It’s here again, and it’s bigger and better than before! Bombshell is proud to declare that this year’s Miss Bootilicious Lingerie Pageant will be comparable to an active volcano spewing hot lava, since all the models are bent on bringing to the stage an erotic sizzle unprecedented in the history of local pageants. To date, eight super curvy divas are ready to battle for ‘curvy dominance’; and they are warning their male models to be ready for a ‘Bootilicious Armageddon’. According to folks at the Cody’s Palace, Middle and East Streets, where this seismic activity will be hosted, there is still room for four more contestants, and very curvy gals who are confident of their fatal attractiveness are all welcome aboard. Interested persons can call the pro-

moters on phone numbers 616- 0301, or 699-6156 to enter the competition. The first leg of the 2015 Bootilicious Showdown kicks off on May 09, 2015. The Miss Bootilicious Pageant is a positive forum for full-figured, curvy girls to demonstrate that the stage or runway is not only for the apparently anorexic; beautiful ‘big gals’, too, can be bold and assertive about their sexiness. The contestants will be escorted by rippled and chiseled male models, whose theatrics will greatly propel five ladies to the final leg of the pageant. Each contestant will demonstrate her ideas of best entertaining her mate to prevent him from falling prey to the attentions of the very ‘wanton and desperate human lionesses’ on the prowl.

The delegate who manages to deliver the most scorching routine while not plunging into the arena of the lewd or vulgar, which is forbidden, will be the woman who wins this pageant. There are fantastic cash prizes up for grabs, and each contestant will be awarded for her exploits. Locked in raging battle already are Wonder Woman, Miss Lickulicious, Lady Dynamite, Rupununi Cowgirl, Miss Volcano, Suga Momma, Miss Bombastic, and Avenging Angel. However, word is out that the 2011 runner-up, Lady Venom, is returning and has vowed to teach ‘a lesson in the art’ to any competitor who attempts to prevent her from carting off the crown on pageant night.

‘Bedroom Confessions’ Who will be crowned Miss ready to serve up Linden Town 2015? ‘the ultimate bargain’

Bulletin!!! Bulletin!!! Bulletin!!!

ITH the buzz on Linden Town Week festivities escalating, nine beautiful and talented ladies are poised to battle for the prestigious title on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at the MSC Ground, Linden. These nine lasses will be competing in the Intelligence, Evening Gown, and Swimwear segments, and will each be presenting on the platform ‘Women in Linden’. Those battling for the top spot this year are Manouska Vyhuis (Miss Nottinghampshire), Keisha Lewis (Miss Silvertown), Lurlee Stephen (Miss Aroaima), Irie Cadogan (Miss Central Mackenzie), Keisha Fraser (Miss Victory Valley), Carletta Johnson (Miss Retrieve), and Shinelle Browne (Miss Christianburg) Rounding up the lot are Shellon Massiah (Miss Amelia’s Ward), and Nikita Mc Farlane (Miss Watooka).

GUYANESE were just recently able to appease all their erotic, chocolate and dandy fetishes when Bedroom Confessions/Meena’s Sweet Treats opened its doors to the public with a lavish ceremony at 161 Charlotte Street & Orange Walk, Georgetown. Well, folks there have worked all week to create an amazing package that will ensure you appease your most erotic desires and unleash your ‘forbidden fantasies’ with the likes of just about any imaginable ‘novelty toy’. Come on now, dears. Don’t be bashful. The items there are those you have neither ever heard of nor ever imagined existed! You talked about taking your fetishes to the very limit; well, this very sizzling offer is served up to your likeness on a golden platter of confidentiality and with ultimate professional standards. So what are you waiting for? Call them and make an appointment to indulge in your exotic yearnings. Or you can just visit them at the above address to get a first-hand experience of your

senses exploding like a blinding kaleidoscope of shooting stars! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Haaaa!! This new entity allows you to ignite and fan your sultry flames with enticing chocolates, sexy lingerie, breath-taking candles, finest wines, and sizzling novelties to provide the experience of a lifetime. To top things off, you can also indulge in the most dazzling evening gowns, swimsuits and more. Planning a special ‘candies fiesta’? Then

you can splurge in the Veena’s Sweet Treats section; it offers only US based confectionery. These include Dentyne gums, Jordan almonds, ring jellies, heartthrobs, marshmallow twists, tootsie rolls, ice cubes, yogurt pretzels, Hershey’s chocolates and so much more. Positioned in an ideal location (Opposite Sweet Point Hangout Bar), folks there can be contacted on phone numbers 2266568, 621-9048, or 694-0907.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Bombshell Profile Personality

Kudzo Wilkinson: Artist with a unique difference A philosophy professor stood before his class with some items on the table before him. When the class began, wordlessly he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with rocks about 2 inches in diameter. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They replied that it was. The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled into the open areas between the rocks. He then asked the students again if the jar was full, and they concurred that it was. The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course the sand filled up the remaining open areas of the jar. He then asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous “Yes!” Now, said the professor, ‘I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The rocks are the important things (your family, your partner, your health, and your children) that if everything else were lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter, like your job, your house, your car. The sand is everything else, the small stuff. “If you put the sand into the jar first,” he continued, “there is no room for the pebbles or the rocks. The same goes for your life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.” Those were very meaningful words, and the lesson was a very important one imparted by this professor, this teacher. But what does it mean to be a teacher? What does it mean to learn? The name ‘Camara’ comes from the Bantu dialect of West Africa, and means ‘teacher’ or ‘one who teaches with experience’. Artist Kodzo Wilkinson, born in Suriname to Guyanese parents, is a teacher by profession but an artist at heart. His teaching career began about 9 years ago as an art teacher at Queen’s College, one of the most prestigious institutions of secondary learning in Guyana. There he spent one year, and then continued to teach at Marian Academy, another top high school, for 8 years. Kodzo then returned to Suriname, the land of his birth, to pursue his passion, to do what truly makes him happy… During his tenure at Marian Academy, Kodzo truly made an impact on the lives of his students. Apart from teaching his craft, he founded the Design Club and headed the Chess Club. This brother gave students tools to think outside the box. He brought out their creativity and pushed the limits of their imagination. In the process, the impressionable teenage students learned to be more disciplined and more responsible, and that says a lot. This brother is kind, selfless, considerate and determined; yet he is outspoken enough to tell it like he sees it, even if it’s not what others see. His sister fondly recalls growing up with Kodzo. “I learned to be helpful to others, to be kind to others. Many times he would pull me into his schemes to surprise others or do good deeds for them. Kodzo taught me to bake, design and decorate. From fashion, to

Oooops!!! There it is……

Hey designah lady, pay up yuh dues!!!

Angry husband

The talented Kudzo Wilkinson make-up, to relationship advice, he taught me to be bold, to be more confident in myself, and to stand up for myself. The list goes on.” But without knowing it, most of Kodzo’s own experiences were learning lessons for his sibling. His decision to leave everything behind and return to Suriname to make his dream a reality in itself proved how brave and fearless he really is in pursuit of his happiness and his dreams. His every work offers a learning experience to those who dare to be determined, to persevere, to sweat and make beautiful things happen. But Kodzo wasn’t born a teacher, although being given the name ‘Camara’ at birth might suggest so; but by becoming a teacher his destiny was fulfilled. Kodzo was born an artist…what he was destined to do. Kodzo was born in Suriname on 14th July, 1980 to Guyanese parents. He grew up in Dijkveldt, and from a young age, Kodzo’s creative and artistic talents were evident. Playing shop and drawing on paper was always fun, according to his sister, because he would always come up with interesting ideas for games to play. He also loved to draw cartoon characters, and that he did well. Later, his mom sent him to art school during the summer, and that was what really catapulted Kodzo’s interest in the arts. Throughout the years, his artistic talents only got better. After completing high school in Guyana, Kodzo went on to study at the Burrowes School of Art, from which he graduated in 2004 with a distinction, and was even given the best student award. Kodzo’s artistic style can best be described as bold, daring, unique, and always fresh. This truly talented brother has had his ups and downs, and is still fighting many battles internally as he observes the world externally. But, then again, who doesn’t have those? Kodzo is only 35 years old.

QUOTE OF THE DAY WHATEVER the mind of Man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.

Weeping Old Lady

ME NAH KNOW ah who tell dem designahs dem can come from adda lands and adda farein continents and feel dem can raab we Guyanese and jus get away wid it. Jus de adda day, a certain designer tun up heah and claim dat she is some big prominent figure in the designing world in de USA. If yuh see she, all sweet smiles and coy charisma, but nobaddy had any idea dat she was such a terrible woman. And like she de wukking in coherence wid dis well know man from Guyana, because she claim he is she PR person, and he been deh ‘coming tuh front’ all de time fuh do all she business transactions. The show was hosted at quite a prestigious venue, somewhere in the city, and a

Scampish Designah!!! reasonable crowd attended. It was a good show, and the pieces were all very outstanding. The show having been successfully staged, wid fat money fuh wan ah dem tickets, only de ‘cream ah de crop’ attended. Well, I get de shock ah meh life when

de seamstress who sew all dem pieces dat was on display turn up fuh report that she nevah get pay a single dime!! The poor old woman seh she spent days and nights pon she sewing machine until she back and legs catch cramp. Dat lady lose lots ah weight wid all de stress she had in getting de designs togedda; and when she done do all ah dat, de designah jus ups sheself and disappear without paying dat poor woman wan single cent fuh all she efforts!! De seamstress seh dat de only money she evah receive was US$200, and dat was received wid strict instructions to use it to buy various shades ah fabric. And besides all dat she lose, de poor seamstress light bill run up sky high, since she was using ah electric sewing machine. Now de poor ole woman in tons ah debts wid all de thread and adda items she credit from dem dealers to sew dem outfits, and she family rowing pon she every day. The designer just disappeared into thin air, and has not even contacted that seamstress until now. De old lady crying day and night every time she pick up dat death sentence of a light bill dat GPL send she; and of course she husband deh pon she case ‘twenty-four-seven’ tuh. Dat is really terrible, eh? How some people can be suh heartless to others is beyond me. Well, it looks like de old lady gaffa lick de terrible wounds wah she received from dat experience and find de money fuh pay she light bill and dem adda debts wha she contracted because ah dat scampish designah. I wish three big green frags would jump outta dat designah mouth at every ten-minute intervals until she pay dat old lady de money she rob she. And de designah and she accomplices certainly know themselves. Shame pon all ah yuh! Shame! Shame!! And shame!!!

JOKE OF THE DAY! A man went to see a wizard and said to him, “Can you lift a curse that a priest put on me years ago?” “Maybe,” the wizard replied. “Can you remember the exact words of the curse?” The man replied, “The priest had said on my wedding day ‘I now pronounce you man and wife’.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Confident ruggers off to contest NACRA ... From Backpage CRA champs. Guyana defeated USA (South) last year to claim the 2014 North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA); the first in the country’s rich history in the sport. In 2013, playing at the University of the West Indies (UWI) ground, Guyana fell 20-0 against Trinidad but now, two years later and with a NACRA title under their belt, the ‘Green Machine’ will look to demolish the team they describe as ‘stubborn opposition’. The squad features Australia-based Kevin McKenzie, Rondell MacArthur, Jason Tyrell, Rockford Cummings, Dwayne Schroeder, Vallon Adams, Richard Staglon, Jamal Angus, Jermaine Prowell, Ryan Gonsalves, Peabo Hamilton, Theodore Henry, Claudius Butts, Avery Corbin and Ronald Mayers. The reserve players are Jacques Archibald, Kevon David, Delroy Gordon,

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville 12:05 hrs Hatton Garden 12:40 hrs Prince Of Magic 13:15 hrs Shellys Connection 13:45 hrs Mystic Express 14:15 hrs Hot Ticket 14:45 hrs Alexis 15:15 hrs Kingvoldt 15:45 hrs Captured In Amber English Racing Tips Leicester 08:30 hrs Whaleweigh Station 09:05 hrs Gin In The Inn 09:40 hrs Margot Rose 10:15 hrs Justice Good 10:50 hrs Mustard 11:25 hrs Postbag 12:00 hrs Artful Prince Aintree 08:40 hrs Pearl Swan 09:15 hrs Cardinal Walter 09:50 hrs Carole’s Destrier 10:25 hrs Don Cossack 11:05 hrs Bennys Mist 11:40 hrs Minella Rocco 12:15 hrs Archive

Troy Arjoon, Blaise Bail e y, L a n c e l o t A d o n i s , Leon Greaves and Randy James. Henry, who also serves as the team’s head coach, said that the team is more than hungry not just to beat the Trinidadians but to also keep a stronghold on to the NACRA 15s title. The dreadlocks-wearing coach is of the opinion that the game will be different from their first which was played at home against Barbados, winning 48-24, since Trinidad have always been their closest rival in the sport at all levels. He said Guyana’s advantage is having the core of the team being that of their historic 7s side, since the players are all matchfit, having only recently returned from the Hong Kong Sevens. The rest of the Caribbean and the world will be zeroed in on the region’s best rugby nation to see if their 2014 crusade was by accident or can be replicated.

Fontwell 09:30 hrs Unknown Legend 10:05 hrs Java Rose 10:40 hrs Brody Bleu 11:15 hrs Pembroke House 11:50 hrs Crazy Jack 12:25 hrs Vaillant Nonantais Irish Racing Tips Wexford 10:55 hrs Chief Of Panama 11:30 hrs Bye Bye O Bye 12:05 hrs Cairde Aris 12:35 hrs Who’s That 13:05 hrs Ancient Highway 13:35 hrs Ellaway Rose 14:05 hrs Old Supporter 14:35 hrs Kalopsia American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Suckitupbuster Race 2 Silver Silence Race 3 Damage Control Race 4 Marriage Fever Race 5 Posessed Race 6 Coming Attraction Race 7 Previous Race 8 Downtown Alley

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Suns, Pistons eliminated, Cavs seal second seeding in East THE Phoenix Suns and the Detroit Pistons were eliminated from NBA play-off contention, while the San Antonio Spurs won nine straight. The Cleveland Cavaliers (Cavs) sewed up the Eastern Conference’s second seeding, and the Central division title in the NBA on Wednesday. The Cavs’ 104-99 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks saw them assured of second place behind Conference champions the Atlanta Hawks. Kyrie Irving led the way for Cleveland with 27 points and nine assists, while LeBron James (21 points, nine rebounds, eight assists) and Kevin Love (16 points, 11 rebounds) were also influential. Michael Carter-Williams scored a game-high 30 points in a losing cause for the Bucks (38-40), who

Sim Bhullar becomes the first player of Indian descent to represent an NBA franchise. a post-season place. ons making it nine victories remain in sixth spot in the Also in contention in the in succession with a 110East despite consecutive East are the Indiana Pacers 98 result over the Houston losses. (35-43), the Miami Heat Rockets. Milwaukee, the Bos- (35-43), and the Charlotte The Spurs’ Tony Parker ton Celtics (36-42) and the Hornets (33-45). posted 13 first-quarter points Brooklyn Nets (36-42) are Continuing their winning on his way to a game-high the only sides in the East’s run were the San Antonio 27, while Dwight Howard top eight that are yet to seal Spurs, the NBA champi- (16 points, 11 rebounds)

Hazlewood opts out of IPL AUSTRALIA and Mumbai Indians seamer Josh Hazlewood has pulled out of the IPL to keep himself fit and fresh for the West Indies tour and Ashes defence later this season. Keeping in mind the

lengthy IPL schedule, which clashes with the Australian players’ resting time, and a tight international schedule ahead, Cricket Australia has opted to place him in cotton wool. “Josh’s workload has changed significantly since

he first began attending the IPL,” Pat Howard, general manager of Team Performance, said. “The IPL is the players’ leave period and in Josh’s case it was deemed that not playing was the best use of

that time in the lead-up to a busy winter. “This was agreed with the IPL following discussions at the end of the Test series.” Australia begin their West Indies tour with a tour game in Antigua, starting May 27, three days after the IPL final. The teams face off in a twoTest series, which will be followed by the Ashes, beginning with the first Test in Cardiff on July 8. Hazlewood, who claimed figures of 5 for 68 on Test debut against India in Brisbane, had been a vital cog for Australia this summer. He finished the Test series with 12 wickets in three matches at an average of 29.33 and backed it up with some impressive performances in the World Cup, most notably his 4 for 35 against Pakistan in the quarter-final in Adelaide, after replacing Pat Cummins. He capped off the World Cup with seven wickets in five matches at a thrifty economy rate of 4.10. Hazlewood, who was not with Mumbai Indians during the IPL opener against Kolkata Knight Riders, was earlier retained by the side, and was

had a double-double for the losing Rockets. The Phoenix Suns were eliminated from play-off contention, after their 107104 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Also out of the post-season race on Wednesday were the Detroit Pistons, humbled 113-103 by the Celtics. Phoenix’s exit from the race for post-season places in the Western Conference leaves just the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder fighting for the eighth and final spot. The Pelicans were pummelled 110-74 by the Memphis Grizzlies but remain eighth - level on a 42-36 record with the ninth-placed Thunder with four games to play. Sim Bhullar became the first player of Indian descent to represent an NBA franchise, playing one minute and 22 seconds of the

Sacramento Kings’ 103-91 loss to the Utah Jazz. Bhullar went one-fromtwo from the field, and also collected a rebound in his short stint. The Toronto Raptors moved above the Chicago Bulls into third in the East, after a 92-74 victory over the Hornets, while the Bulls were edged 105-103 by the Orlando Magic. The Washington Wizards sit just one game behind the Raptors - who are level on a 46-32 record with the Bulls - after their fourth straight victory saw them down the Philadelphia 76ers 119-90. A dunk from Al Horford in the dying stages helped the Hawks to a 114111 win over the Nets. The Pacers trumped the New York Knicks 102-86, and the Denver Nuggets were too good for the Los Angeles Lakers 119-101. (Sportsmax.com).

expected to bring his excellent form to the tournament. He becomes the second Australian after Kane Richardson to opt out of the IPL but Mumbai have well-stocked pace bowling

options in Lasith Malinga, Corey Anderson, Marchant de Lange, Jasprit Bumrah, Mitchell McClenaghan, Abhimanyu Mithun and Vinay Kumar. (ESPN Cricinfo)

AP McCoy wins on Jezki in Aintree Hurdle

AP McCoy rode his first winner of his final Grand National meeting aboard Jezki (3-1), following a dramatic final flight in the Doom Bar Aintree Hurdle. Three horses were in contention coming to the last, where Ruby Walsh suffered a heavy fall on Arctic Fire. That stopped the momentum of 2012 Champion Hurdle winner Rock on Ruby and allowed McCoy, who is retiring this month, to win by 13 lengths. Earlier, in the Betfred Bowl Chase, Silviniaco Conti edged out Ballynagour. There was just a nose in it as the two-time King George winner made it back-to-back victories in the Grade 1 Aintree race by holding off 18-1 Ballynagour’s spirited late challenge. Ridden by Noel Fehily, 7-4 favourite Silviniaco Conti, who is trained by Paul Nicholls, jumped serenely over the famous fences to recover from his disappointing showing in the Gold Cup, where he finished fourth behind winner Lord Windermere. McCoy’s mount Holywell was third in that - the feature race - but the 19-time champion jockey was delighted to get his first victory of the day, on Jezki. “This festival is fantastic and it’s great to win a race like this,” said 40-year-old McCoy. “I will miss riding a horse like this but hopefully this time next year I will be out of rehab and be able to come and enjoy myself!” (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Daredevils fall short despite Morkel fifty CHENNAI Super Kings’ best discipline backfired. Their famed blueprint keeping wickets in hand to tuck into the final five overs - was foiled. With only 151 to get, Delhi Daredevils had the opportunity to fell a six-match losing streak to MS Dhoni’s men. Scores: Chennai Super Kings 150 for 7 (Smith 34, Coulter-Nile 3-30) beat Delhi Daredevils 149 for 9 (Morkel 73*, Nehra 3-25) by 1 run. But when aggression was required, they hid their best batsmen in the lower middle order. Those efforts to prevent the worst possible outcome only hastened its arrival as Daredevils lost by one run. Albie Morkel was the only threat. He filled every Super Kings fan with a heady cocktail of dread and déjà vu. They have spent six years whistling for him. He was the source of probably their most famous win in IPL history. His allegiances are with Daredevils this season and struck an unbeaten 73 off 55 that indicated he could be more than just a handy source of nitrous when the finish line nears.

Albie Morkel’s 55-ball in a losing cause. Ironically again, as well as he gave the Daredevils chase the spine it needed, his finishing skills came up short. They needed six off the last ball. Morkel’s belt reached the cover boundary after an agonising bounce. He had seen Ashish

73 turned out to be Nehra wreck the top order - one made up of Shreyas Iyer, who was making his IPL debut, Mayank Agarwal, who biffs but never persists and CM Gautam, who averages 18 and strikes at 108. Nehra sent each one off with a kiss, and might as well have added another one

Bishoo grabs six to stake claim for opening Test ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Devendra Bishoo announced himself ready to play in next week’s opening Test match against England with a six-wicket haul on the opening day of the West Indies twoday warm-up match here Wednesday. The leg-spinner took six for 56 of 32 overs in an impressive spell at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, to extend his outstanding run of form from the WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL) when he took 61 wickets in 10 matches. Playing for the Jason Holder XI, he sent down a marathon spell and troubled all the batsmen as Denesh Ramdin’s XI were bowled out for 209 off 95 overs. Bishoo, 29, burst onto the

Devendra Bishoo international scene in 2011, and was that year named the ICC Emerging Player-of-theYear. He played in all three

formats for the West Indies and took 40 wickets in 11 Test matches. He, however, lost his place in 2012 but has worked his way back into the reckoning on the back of a strong season for Guyana Jaguars, who won the PCL four-day tournament. Jermaine Blackwood top-scored on Wednesday’s opening day, with 49 off 95 balls, while opener Leon Johnson scored 42 off 123 balls. Ramdin chipped in with 23 while opener Kraigg Brathwaite got 22 in a 46-run opening stand with Johnson. Off-spinner Raheem Cornwall, the 22-year-old off-spinning all-rounder from Antigua, invited to play in the match, ended with four for 50 off 21 overs.

to the Daredevils think-tank. Despite those setbacks, 49 off 30 balls was doable and Morkel had hung on. Another reason for the Chennai fans to worry. That’s usually how Super Kings win their games. The only difference though is they try not to lose batsmen of the calibre of Yuvraj Singh and JP Duminy in the space of seven balls. Coming back from that eventually ended up being too much. It undid a good night for the Daredevils bowlers. Super Kings had been 100 for 3 in the 13th over, with Dhoni lying in wait against a side spring cleaned of their identity. The final flourish seemed academic, except it never came. Dhoni made only 30 off 27; his team made only 39 off the last five. They did have 150 on the board though, and the force of an MA Chidam-

baram crowd that hadn’t seen their IPL side play for nearly two years. The only reason Daredevils came within one shot of victory was Morkel deviating from their safety-first mindset. The decision to bowl was a clear indication. They were without Angelo Mathews, a forced absence, Zaheer Khan, for whom they shelled Rs 4 crores and Mohammed Shami, India’s top wicket-taker at the World Cup. So, the gentle seam-up from Morkel kick-started their season, there was a dropped catch in the second over and little-known Domnic Joseph was given the third. Despite sustaining two early wickets, Super Kings had somehow raced to 59 at the end of the mandatory Powerplay. Cinderella wouldn’t have felt as jittery

with one minute left to midnight. But Nathan CoulterNile was Daredevils’ fairy godmother. He harnessed the pace and bounce from the pitch to pack 14 dot balls and the invaluable wickets of Brendon McCullum and Raina in his four overs. Daredevils needed his spell to calm them, and their two leg-spinners plotted a course reversal. Imran Tahir, who would sooner bowl left-handed than play defensively, and Amit Mishra, the most productive spinner in seven years of IPL, tossed the ball up and turned it the wrong way enough times to leave the batsmen uncertain. T h e t h re e o f t h e m grabbed five wickets for 78 in 12 overs by taking the opposition head on. But the batsmen didn’t follow that example. (ESPN Cricinfo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Floodlights and Karibee Girls record wins at Crabwood Creek FLOODLIGHTS and Floodlights All Stars recorded victories over Corrriverton Market Vendors and Crabwood Creek/Scottsborg respectively while their female counterpart Trophy Stall Angels were not so lucky against Karibee Girls last Sunday at the Crabwood Creek Sports Complex. In the first match, Floodlights scored a challenging 196 for 5 wickets in their allotted 20 overs with Richard Persaud making 56, Greg De Fraca 40 and Imtiaz Mohamed 41 not out. Ravi Lutchman and Fabie Dan took two wickets each. Corriverton responded strongly initially, scoring over 10 runs per over in the first 10, but were then checked with some good fielding, catching and bowling by the 2014 Guyana Softball Cup Masters

Imtiaz Mohamed collects the bier and Prakash Singh memorial trophy from Ganesh Singh. champions. Corriverton Market Vendors were eventually all out for 171 in 19.4 overs. Vishal topscored with 51, Ravi Lutchman made 25 and Buie Ramo 26 - the principal scorers. Mike Singh, Wayne Jones,

Richard Kellawan, Ramchand Ragbeer and man-ofthe-match Imtiaz Mohamed took 2 wickets apiece. In the second match, CWC/ Scottsborg batting first made 172 for 9 in their allotted 15 overs, with skipper Popo Chalitar top-scoring with 61,

J Garnett 42. Richard Latiff and D Parches took 2 wickets each while Imtiaz Mohamed took 3. Floodlights All Stars

blazed the trail winning in 13 overs with only 2 wickets down. Man-of-the-match Lennox Marks top-scored with 77 n.o. while Richard Latiff made 44. In the female game Karibee Girs were in early trouble losing some key wickets, but eventually reached a commanding 153 for 8 in their allotted 15 overs. Player-of-the-match Katana Mentore made a brilliant 82 not out. Trophy Stall Angels, lost skipper June Ogle early, and fell short. They eventually made 147 for 9 when their 15 overs expired Spectators at Crabwood Creek were given a treat by the Floodlights teams. They

won 22 prizes, which included Internet Tablet, DVD, groceries and pharmaceutical hampers, T-shirts, Karibee rice. There were also 50 giveaways, kites, umbrellas etc. The Crabwood Creek Baba Grant Mandir also received a donation of $200 000 from The Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association. These three matches were sponsored by Ago Gopaul & family, Nand Persaud & Co. Ltd, Ganesh Singh and Brothers Sawmilling, Survival, Trophy Stall, 4R, Mikes Pharmacy, Rohan Auto Spares, Bel Air RUBiS, Motor Trend , Vishnu Super Store and Ramchand Auto Spares.

Camp a huge benefit for fringe players - Ramdin ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Test captain Denesh Ramdin believes the ongoing camp in preparation for the England series will be a huge benefit for the fringe players involved in the set-up. Four uncapped players – Carlos Brathwaite, fellow fast bowler Miguel Cummins, wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich and batsman Shai Hope – were among 20 players invited to the training camp. Ramdin said even if they were not selected in the final Test squad, the

knowledge they picked up during the camp would prove invaluable. “There’s a new coach Phil Simmons and he’s been telling us to enjoy it, whatever we’re doing, so so far we’ve been doing good work,” Ramdin said. “ Yo u n g S h a i H o p e and young Dowrich have been fitting in quite nicely, learning and asking a lot of questions which is good from the youngsters. “They’ve come with that energy and that enthusiasm to learn, always giving 100 per cent so far and that

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday April 10, 2015) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Shane Watson (RR) Praveen Kumar (RCB); SouravGanguly (KKR) Today’s Quiz: Which two did not play in the inaugural IPL tournament? Zaheer Khan; Dwayne Bravo; LasithMalinga; Ravi Ashwin; Dale Steyn Who is the first bowler to claim a five-wicket haul in an IPL game? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

is good. They are a young bunch of guys and very enjoyable so far. “If they can learn from this, even if not selected, they can go back to their territorial boards having improved as players and do well for their country.” The players launched their preparation for the England series last weekend, under the watchful eye of new coach Simmons whose appointment was recently announced. They have undergone work in every facet of the game, culminating in a two-day practice match which bowled off at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground on Wednesday. Ramdin said he expected the week-long camp to get the group up to full readiness for the first Test which starts here Monday. “The last two days have been good. The preparation has been a lot of bowling, batting, fielding and trying to get all the departments of our game up to scratch,” the Trinidadian pointed out. “Some of the guys have been playing first class cricket, some of us came back from the World Cup and had a couple days off and now we’re back into it.”

Karibee Girls captain Erva Giddings receives the Nand Persaud memorial trophy from Romeo Deonarain.

Food for the Poor donates cricket gear to five clubs A QUANTITY of bats, balls, pads and stumps among other cricket requisites, were donated to the Gandhi Youth Cricket Club (GYCC), Transport Sports Club (TSC), Maltenoes Sports Club (MSC), Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) and the Everest Cricket Club (ECC) by the non-governmental organisation Food for the Poor (FFP) recently, to assist the clubs in preparing for the various local competitions. Kellon Carmichael, captain of MSC thanked FFP for the kind donation and said that it would help immensely in preparing the Under-15 team, as the members are not fortunate to have their own equipment. Public Relations Manager of FFP, Wayne Hamilton, said that although

Kellon Carmichael, captain of MSC, receives cricket gear from Public Relations Manager of FFP, Wayne Hamilton. Guyana were the comprehensive winners of the West Indies Cricket Board/Professional Cricket League Regional four-day competition, the standard of cricket in Guyana and the West Indies is relatively poor.

He urged the recipients to take good care of the gear and further stated that FFP was committed to helping the clubs in Guyana to improve the game significantly as far as possible.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 10, 2015

Essequibo stage fightback against Demerara … Berbice beat National U-17 By Calvin Roberts HAVING seen left-arm spinner Keanu Harry restrict the powerful Demerara batting lineup on the opening day with his seven-wicket haul, Essequibo batsmen fought back gallantly at the end of the second day of their Guyana Cricket Board/Raj Singh Insurance Under-19 Inter-county three-day fixture yesterday. Playing at the Everest Cricket Club ground where they resumed the day on 1 without loss in reply to Demerara’s 261, Essequibo posted 226 before being bowled out in the dying stages of the penultimate day yesterday, thanks to Parmesh Parsotam 59 and 46 from Sachin Persaud. Medium pacer Shurfane Rutherford bowled with pace and good rhythm to end with 3 for 45, backed by Malcolm Hubbard and Akshaya Persaud who took 2 wickets each for 13 and 48 runs respectively for Demerara, who were handed a five-run penalty following a fielding infringement by Rutherford. At the Wales Community Centre ground, Berbice defeated the National Under-17 by 10 wickets in a one-sided affair, to earn a well-deserved rest day on today’s final day. At Camp Road, Essequibo began the day with both Satesh Latchana and Nathan

Persaud yet to score and saw them post 19 on the board before Latchana was runout by Vivian Albert, whose return to wicketkeeper Tevin Imloch found Latchana short in his attempt to steal a cheeky single to point. Parsotam and Nathan Persaud added 59 for the second wicket, with Parsotam hitting Rutherford for three fours in two overs, followed by two more fours in one over, before rain stopped play for 10 minutes at 66 for 1, with Parsotam on 25 and Nathan Persaud 26. A well-judged catch by Imloch low down to his left, off Rutherford, accounted for Nathan Persaud 31 (90 balls, 2x4) when play resumed after the first of two rain breaks, with Essequibo 71 for 2 and Parsotam unbeaten on 25. Lunch was taken with Essequibo 72 for 2 -. Parsotam 25 and David Williams 1. Growing in confidence with every delivery that he faced, Parsotam who represented Guyana at the Under-17 level two years ago posted his 50 from 88 balls and 113 minutes of batting with nine fours, following back-to-back fours off Demerara skipper Travis Persaud after the luncheon break. Both Parsotam and Williams were dismissed at 117 for 4, with Parsotam going to Travis Persaud’s catch at

England focus on first Test after tour match stalemate ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) - England will now turn their attention to Monday’s start of the opening Test against West Indies, after their two-day tour match against a St Kitts and Nevis Invitational XI finished in a draw here yesterday. Responding to St Kitts’ 303 made on Wednesday’s opening day, England finished 222 all out on a rainhit day at Warner Park. Stroke-maker Ian Bell top-scored with 43, Ben Stokes struck 29 while Jos Buttler, Gary Ballance and Adam Lyth all chipped in with 23. Captain Alistair

Cook got 22. Seamer Quinton Boatswain grabbed two for 34 while left-arm spinner Elvin Berridge picked up two for 52. Lyth and Cook put on 44 for the first wicket before the left-handed Lyth was taken at first slip by Jaques Taylor off Boatswain. Jonathan Trott failed for the second time in the game when he nicked Boatswain behind for just two, as England went to lunch at 69 for two. England face West Indies at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium in the first match of the three-Test series.

Essequibo’s Parmesh Parsotam is watched by (from left) Daniel Basdeo, wicketkeeper Tevin Imloch, Travis Persaud (bowler) and Nathan Persaud, as he plays a forward defensive shot during the early stage of his innings, yesterday. (Photo by Samuel Maughn) slip off Akshaya Persaud, who returned the favour in the same position to account for Williams (10) off a Vivian Albert delivery in the following over. Parsotam faced 105 balls during his 134-minute sojourn at the wicket, hitting 10 fours. At their demise, Demerara must have felt they would wrap up Essequibo’s batting lineup quickly. But Sachin Persaud, who swivelled and pulled Akshaya Persaud for six over midwicket, followed it up with two exquisite drives with authority for four through extra cover off his namesake Travis Persaud, drawing a round of applause from his teammates and former West Indies batsman Alvin Kallicharran. In partnership with his skipper Travis Drakes, the score was pushed to 143 for 4 before rain stopped play at 14:04hrs and when the contest resumed, Hubbard and his skipper Travis Persaud bowled eight consecutive maiden overs, accounting

for Drakes who was caught by Travis Persaud at midoff, when he looked to hit Hubbard over the top at 161 for 5. That became 207 for 9, with the dismissals of Harry (2), Sachin Persaud 46 (141 mins, 126 balls, 3x4; 1x6), Looknauth Chinkoo (0) and Akini Adams 17 (3x4), as Rutherford and Basdeo engaged in a disciplined bowling spell with

the second new ball, before Leyland Cadogan 13 (3x4) and Jewmal Hartman 6* added 19 for the final wicket When the action continues today, Demerara who has a lead of 35 runs will start their second innings looking for quick runs, with the aim of securing an outright win. At Wales, Berbice resumed the day on 136 for 6, a lead of 42 with four

wickets in hand after bowling out the National Under-17s for 94. Thanks to the batting of Kassim Khan who struck seven fours and one six in his unbeaten 59, 51 that included eight fours and two sixes from Parmanand Ramdan and 33 (4x4, 1x6) by Leon Andrews, the team from the Ancient County posted 214 all out, for a lead of 120. Richie Looknauth and Timothy McAlmont took 3 wickets each for 33 and 42 runs for the National Under-17, who in their second innings were bowled out for 121 off 75 overs, led by 42 (3x4) from Adrian Sukhwah, 30 (5x4) from Ronaldo Mohamed and 13 from Joshua Persaud. Kahn (4 for 35), skipper Balchand Baldeo (3 for 18) and Ramdan 2 for 23 did the damage with the ball for Berbice, who were asked to score 2 for victory and saw Andrews hit the first ball from Mohammed for 4 to seal off the win.

Bancroft to undergo surgery ONE of Guyana’s leading amateur boxers could be out of the sport for a considerable length of time because of medical reasons. Welterweight Eion Bancroft has been diagnosed with a detached retina in the right eye and needs urgent overseas medical treatment to remedy the situation.

NOTABLE DATES THE YEAR 1997 goes down as the busiest in the career of cruiserweight/heavyweight Andre `Stone’ Purlette. During the 12-month period Purlette fought seven times and won all his encounters by knockouts. April 1997 was special as the stone-fisted Guyanese packed two fights into that month. He battled with Kenneth Myers and then Kenneth Mosley. Purlette was 16-0 when he met Myers on April 10 in Norfolk, Virginia. The referee stepped in and stopped the fight just before the end of round three. Purlette thereafter went on a rampage. He knocked out almost all opponents over a five-year period. However, the `big banger’ from Guyana had his first loss on December 4, 2002. Purlette was undefeated in 32 fights (28 Kos) when he tackled Cuban-American Eliester Castillo. Older by three years, Castillo shocked the arena as referee Jorge Alonso counted out the Guyanese at two minutes and 58 seconds of the fifth round. Purlette went on to win the WBO/NABO heavyweight title and retired in 2009 with a knockout average of 79 percent. His record includes 40 wins and four losses.

Eion Bancroft President of the Guyana Boxing Association, Steve Ninvalle, said that the stocky fighter has been forwarded to the Ministry of Health for assistance. “We have noted the urgency and have turned to the Ministry of Health for assistance. I am pleased to say that the Ministry has responded promptly and is awaiting a few more documents from Mr Bancroft,” Ninvalle disclosed. Ninvalle said Bancroft

had complained of problem with seeing out of the eye. However, it was only earlier this month that diagnosis was made. The GBA boss added the surgery can be done in Trinidad and may lay up the tenacious fighter for over six months. This rules him out of possible participation of the Pan Am Qualifiers scheduled for Mexico in June. Bancroft, who fights out of the Guyana Defence Force Gym, is one of three boxers who returned home with victories from French Guiana last month. He had held the national welterweight title up until last year before being dethroned by Glenroy Smith of the Essequibo Boxing Gym. He was a gold medallist at the four-nation Goodwill Championship held here in February 2013 and attended the last South American and Commonwealth Games where he gained a place in the quarter-final.

Sport CHRONICLE

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Essequibo stage fightback See Story against on Page 35 Demerara

International dominoes competition winners receive spoils WINNERS of the inaugural Georgetown Dominoes Association (GDA)-organised international tournament were all presented with their spoils from the competition that was held over the Easter weekend. The simple but auspicious ceremony was held on Wednesday evening at the GDA’s South Ruimveldt headquarters. With teams coming from the USA, Canada and several Caribbean territories, it was the Guyanese club ‘Rage’ that pocketed the tournament’s US$5 000 first prize. Second-place finishers ‘Specialist’ collected US$2 500, while Spartan the Gladiators were third (US$1 500) and Dream Team fourth (US$1 000). Despite being on a team that finished outside of the GDA president Fay Joseph hands over the winners’ trophy and the US$5 000 to a top four, Kanhai Samaroo representative of Rage Dominoes team while other members look on.

was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP), winning a maximum of 18 games. President of the GDA, Fay Joseph, said that the success of the tournament was a ‘dream come true’, adding that the support shown by clubs and ardent fans of the game has set a platform for others to emulate. Joseph has promised that the next tournament will be bigger and better and she made a call to corporate Guyana to support the event. “I think we’ve shown that dominoes is more than just a pastime game and can be played at a big stage and could be lucrative. We wish that corporate entities would support us next year,” said Joseph, who funded the entire tournament.

Australia cricket legend Confident ruggers off Richie Benaud dies at 84 to contest NACRA

Richie Benaud: 1930-2015 FORMER Australia captain and legendary cricket commentator Richie Benaud has died at the age of 84. A pioneering leg-spin bowler, Benaud played in 63 Tests, 28 as captain, before retiring in 1964 to pursue a career in journalism and broadcasting. His final commentary in England came during the 2005 Ashes series but he continued to work for Channel Nine in Australia until 2013. In November, he revealed he was being treated for skin cancer.

Benaud took 945 wickets in 259 first-class matches and made 11 719 first-class runs, scoring 23 centuries at an average of 36.50. He was the first man to achieve 2 000 runs and 200 wickets at Test level. He was also a highly regarded tactician and never lost a Test series as Australia captain, winning five and drawing two. After such an impressive playing career, he became even better known as a prolific author, columnist and commentator on cricket. Following the 1956 Ashes tour in England, he completed a BBC training course while still a player, marking the beginning of a 40-year association with the corporation. His first BBC radio commentary came in 1960, followed by his first television appearance three years later. With his mellifluous, light delivery, enthusiastically imitated by comedians and cricket fans alike, Benaud also became the lead commentator on Australian television’s Channel Nine from 1977. At the age of 83, he crushed two vertebrae when his 1963 Sunbeam vintage sports car hit a brick wall near to his Coogee home in Sydney Benaud often spoke of a return to commentary, but, to the great sadness of his legions of admirers, it did not materialise. Benaud, who was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1961 for services to cricket, leaves a wife of 48 years, Daphne, and two children from his first marriage. (BBC Sport)

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Southern Zone Final By Rawle Toney

A CONFIDENT Guyana National 15s rugby team departed Guyana today for Trinidad and Tobago where they will meet the men from the Twin Island Republic in the final of NACRA Southern Zone. The game which will be paid at the Fatima Ground tomorrow is more than just another final for the Guyanese but one where the side to cone out on top will have a showdown with the Northern Zone champions to determine the 2015 NAKevin McKenzie

See Page 31 FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2015