2015 6 19

GUYANA

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

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No. 104225 FRIDAY JUNE 19, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

INCLUDING VAT

US Govt. supports scrapping Specialty Hospital Project

– says money better spent on another public facility 3

Page

Health Minister commits to improving lot of Mora Point residents 2 Page

– by upgrading health centre, addressing staffing

Accountant gunned down in Meadow Brook home invasion Page

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DEAD: Jason Kurt

Man gets 57 years Page

Health Minister Dr. George Norton interacting with some Mora Point residents during a visit to the community yesterday

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– for killing friend

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Health Minister commits to improving – by upgrading health lot of Mora Point residents centre, addressing staffing

By Navendra Seoraj RESIDENTS of Mora Point, on the Mahaicony Creek, are soon to benefit from a developed community healthcare centre, in keeping with a commitment made yesterday by Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton.

During his visit to the area yesterday, Dr Norton was made aware of the current state of the health centre which is in dire need of improvement, and residents are also currently affected by recent flash flooding due to heavy rainfall over the past few days.

The Public Health Minister recognised that the medical facility is in need of a permanent medical officer who would be stationed there so that residents could

Food For the Poor and other officials speaking, at left, with Mora Point residents yesterday before they began the distribution of the items (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

Minister Norton inspecting one of the medicines in stock at the health centre

access healthcare whenever the need arises.

Speaking to the Community Health Worker (CHW) stationed there, the Minister was made aware that a medical team visits the centre to treat patients only once per week, which he deemed as unacceptable, considering that there are over 150 fam-

ilies living within the area.

“The facility itself is not in a bad shape, but it can use some minor improvements, but the main focus will be on staffing the health centre,” said Minister Norton.

However, he pointed out that they are in need of a proper cold storage area for vaccines and other medical supplies which need

The Mora Health Care Centre

cooling.

STANDS COMMITTED In speaking to the villagers, Minister Norton made a commitment to ensure that the health centre is improved as soon as possible, because it is one of the closest medical facilities for the residents.

He also promised that medical supplies such as medicines and other necessities would be supplied to the health centre.

Meanwhile, Regional Health Officer (RHO) of Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice), Dr. Gavin Singh also

promised that he would make arrangements at least within a week for a permanent medical expert to be stationed at the health centre.

He highlighted that, “I will try my best to get a medical expert to stay there for at least two months, while there will be a medical team which will visit more often, so that persons could be properly treated.”

Dr. Persaud suggested that a small committee should be formed among the residents so that they can brainstorm ways in which the health facility

could be improved, rather than waiting on the RHO or the Minister to visit the area and find the problems.

FLASH FLOODING The residents, who are heavily burdened by flash flooding resulting from the recent heavy downpours, received a quantity of food items, clothes for both men and women, along with medical supplies.

Speaking to the flood affected persons, Chief Executive Officer of Food for the Poor (Guyana) (FFTP), Kent Vincent disclosed that they were notified by one

of their field officers two days ago, “so we decided to gather some stuff and bring it here to help out in whatever way we can.”

Vi n c e n t e x p r e s s e d thanks to the Minister of Public Health for supporting them in getting the items to the residents of the area as soon as possible.

Meanwhile Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud also urged residents to remain healthy by taking the necessary precautions such as boiling water before use, using mosquito repellants and so forth.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

US Govt. supports scrapping Specialty Hospital Project

– says money better spent on another public facility WORKS had commenced on the Specialty Hospital at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, but the contract with Surrendra Engineering had to be terminated and the US Government is now advocating construction of another facility like the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GHPC).

Minister of State in the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon on Wednesday confirmed that the government is looking to scrap the project and to put the money secured for it towards improving the healthcare sector countrywide.

Harmon made the disclosure even as one of the new Government’s closest international allies, the United States, voiced support for the construction of another GPHC-type facility in lieu of the scrapped Specialty Hospital project.

The suggestion came from US Representative to Guyana, Charge d’Affaires Bryan Hunt who on Wednesday last met with Health Minister Dr. George Norton at the minister’s office on Brickdam when the issue of the Specialty Hospital was raised.

Harmon, during a simultaneous post-Cabinet press briefing, had indicated to media operatives that Government’s intention was to engage the Indian Government to utilize the US$14M remaining under the Line of

that Guyanese doctors would be trained at the Specialty Hospital, while they planned on importing specialists from India which would have been a costly exercise.

“This is so because the recruiting of doctors, in particular specially-trained physicians, comes with a hefty price, not forgetting the cost of equipment and the setting up of the operating rooms and the various wards.”

Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy, Bryan Hunt (left) during discussions with Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton

Credit (LoC) that had been arranged for the construction of the Specialty Hospital.

Meanwhile, Hunt, during his meeting with Dr. Norton, suggested that constructing another public hospital on the same spot would solve the space constraints issue at the current GPHC. However, several million dollars have already been expended on site preparation at Turkeyen.

According to Hunt, “If not build another GPHC, the money should be used to develop the current one, because there are visible and non-visible issues which could be addressed by the Ministry of Health and further, the Government of Guyana…as well as the development of the Regional Health System among other areas which are even more import-

ant than building a specialty hospital.”

US SUPPORT He also suggested that the Government should spend more time developing the primary health system which is in dire need of assistance, and assured Minister Norton that the US will continue to support Guyana in their move towards development of the health sector.

Dr. Norton had indicated to the US Diplomatic Representative that Government would be launching an investigation into construction of the Specialty Hospital by the former administration.

When asked about the future of the project, the Minister of Public Health told the US Representative that, “before we make any

rash decisions as it relates to the Specialty Hospital we will first have to launch an investigation into the project so as to have an idea of what has taken place so far, and whether or not it would be right to move forward on a project such as this…given the fact that the past administration did not provide much and adequate feedback on the proceedings of the project.”

He alluded to the fact also that the company that was in charge of the construction of the hospital, Surendra Engineering Company, has a track record of being unreliable regarding contract projects.

PRIMARY HEALTH SYSTEM Apart from the investigation into the actual construc-

tion, the Minister pointed out that, instead of building a specialty hospital which is not necessarily needed in Guyana, the administration would rather invest their efforts into improving the primary healthcare system which is in dire need of development.

Before moving their focus to that, they would be better off improving the GPHC and the local community healthcare centers, which would prove to be more efficient and beneficial to citizens, Dr. Norton added.

He disclosed too that there will be a departure from the plans of the previous administration as it relates to staffing the medical facilities. According to the Public Health Minister, the previous government had announced

FOCUS ON GPHC Dr Norton said, “instead of investing in that, they could change their focus towards the GPHC where there is a shortage of beds and inadequate spacing, or develop the various health centres so that persons can access the ones in their communities instead of having to travel to Georgetown.”

He said too, “The Cancer Institute for example which is located at the GPHC has to be expanded as this is something that would be of more value than the establishment of a specialty hospital because it provides radiotherapy and chemotherapy right there,” he emphasised.

In that light, Minister Norton asserted that instead of investing in the Specialty Hospital which would prove to be very hard to sustain, they would rather embark on other ventures that would be sustainable and beneficial to the citizens instead.

Man charged with theft Channel 6 employee fined for phone theft, giving false of mountain bike A FIFTY-year-old man who could not account for a bicycle in his possession was yesterday brought before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry to answer a charge of simple larceny.

Ivor Martin (no address given), denied the allegation which stated that on Tuesday, June 16,2015 at Georgetown, he was in possession of a mountain bicycle that was suspected to have been

stolen.

According to Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru, on the day in question around 15:10hrs, Martin’s suspicious behaviour was observed by a policeman.

He was seen pushing the said bicycle on the front wheel,while the back wheel was locked.

Based on his observation, the policeman stopped Martin and enquired about the bicycle, but Martin

could not produce a key or receipt to prove that he was the owner.

Martin,who was unrepresented by counsel, informed the court that he had previously served a three- month jail term for simple larceny. Consequently, he was denied pre-trial liberty and the matter was transferred before Magistrate Alex Moore, for Tuesday, July 7,2015.

info to police

CHANNEL 6 handyman Surai Singh, accused of stealing a Samsung Galaxy S4 cellular phone and giving false information to the police, yesterday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates Court.

Singh, a 28-year-old father of two without any hesitation pleaded guilty to both charges.

Details of the charge stated that on Monday, June 15,2015, at Robb Street, Georgetown, he stole one Samsung Galaxy S4 Cellu-

lar phone valued $105,000, property of Timona Robinson.

In addition, he also was charged with giving incorrect information to a detective constable regarding himself.

The prosecution’s facts revealed that Robinson and Singh are co-workers of Channel 6 and on the day in question, she forgot her cellular phone at the workplace. She then made a call to another workmate and informed her about the phone.

Checks were made and the phone was not found, after which the police were summoned.

Further investigation was carried out and Singh admitted taking the phone, which he later returned.

T h e u n re p re s e n t e d man was fined $100,000 for the simple larceny charge with an alternative of six months imprisonment. Additionally, he was fined $15,000 for giving false information to the police.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19 2015

MPI hires coordinator to oversee clean-up drive

THANKS to the overwhelming support the clean-up campaign has received, Public Infrastructure Minister Mr David Patterson was moved to identify a Community Coordinator to liaise with communities to remove their debris/garbage.

According to a release from the Ministry, Neilson McKenzie, who has been actively involved in education, agriculture and community development for over 35 years, was on Wednesday busy making arrangements to have trucks remove rubbish and debris from B Field Sophia and in the South and East Ruimveldt areas.

“From my interactions with the residents, it appears that this Saturday and Sun-

Sophia.

According to Mr. McKenzie, assistance is readily available to communities for the disposal of their rubbish.

All they need do is call the hotline, 223-1844, for whatever help they need.

A FACE TO THE EXERCISE The appointment of the Community Coordinator, Minister Patterson explained, is to “have a face to the initiative.”

“We can’t have a hotline and not have a central person to conduct follow-ups and action work. The Coordinator will now be responsible for that,” he said.

The Ministries of Public Infrastructure and Communities along with National Drainage and Irrigation

Newly-appointed community coordinator, Mr. Neilson McKenzie (left) interacting with residents of ‘B’ Field, Sophia day will be hectic. Residents dirt/garbage,” Mr. McKenzie and have already arranged a in these areas have indicat- was quoted as saying. team of young men to come ed that they will continue Jamal Daley and Colin out this weekend to continue with their massive cleanup Corbin, two young residents the cleanup exercise. Similar exercises, but they need as- from B Field Sophia, are en- arrangements are in place sistance with the removal of thusiastic about the initiative, for Ramsingh Street, B Field

Authority (NDIA) and the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) are providing the equipment for the project.

Further, Minister Patterson expressed his appreciation and thanks to members of the communities who have participated in cleanup exercise.

He is optimistic that that Mr. McKenzie, a true consummate professional, will get the job done.

“Mr. McKenzie has served in senior capacities in the private sector, and as a Project Manager on a European Union (EU) sponsored programme.

He is also actively involved in both community and farmers’ development in Regions Four and Five,” added Minister Patterson.

Enterprise youths help fire victims make fresh start THE Enterprise Youth D e v e l o p m e n t G ro u p (EYDG) yesterday assisted a family left homeless after a fire burnt everything they had to ashes.

On November 2014, the home of the Imran

Khan and Sherry Bacchus was destroyed by fire.

The EYDG was struck by the thought of a family within their community without a place to call home, so according to President of the EYDG, Samantha

--Family seeks further assistance to rebuild house

DATE: 03/06/2015 H

“In the month of December, the youths of EYDG decided to pool their resources and efforts together in order to assist the family. They went to a shop in Enterprise and pur-

Sheoprashad several letters were written and directed to various organisations to assist the group in working to reach out to the family.

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chased a number of household items,” she said.

According to Sheoprashad, the ounce of togetherness, cooperation and love sent inspiration to Gavin Sharma, an overseas-based citizen who recently gave monetary assistance to the Imran Khan family.

Currently the family is rebuilding their home and is seeking help from family,

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friends and public-spirited persons in doing so.

Sherry was grateful for the help and promised to keep working towards recovering her losses.

“I am very much grateful for this assistance, this is my first step towards rebuilding and I will continue to work

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

PPP/C invokes 200,000 votes to oust Dr. Surujbally

--says ‘he will go; it’s only a matter of time’

By Gary Eleazar CHAIRMAN of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Dr Steve Surujbally having brought the electoral body into disrepute, to participate in local government elections under his “dishonourable and disgraceful watch will be counter-productive and makes no sense…”

At least, this is according to the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in its latest salvo against Dr. Surujbally. “Surujbally can talk until he is blue in the face about not going anywhere,” the Party says, “he will go; it is only a matter of time.”

Dr. Surujbally has been the focus of calls for his resignation by the political Opposition in Guyana,following General and Regional Elections in recent years,but never before by the political

Dr Steve Surujbally opposition making up the PPP/C. The political party, which recently ceded power to the coalesced A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) says Dr. Surujbally has lost its confidence.

In explaining what it meant, the PPP/C said it speaks from a position of having been able to secure the vote of 49.3 per cent

Enterprise youths help fire victims ...

From Page 4

towards providing for my family.”

This project is a part of our Community Service and Humanitarian project for the President Youth Award Republic of Guyana which caters to mould the minds of participant. Presenting is Pyarg-Enterprise –Kelly

Oripersaud, Pyarg Curtis Martin and other leaders within the Enterprise Youth Development Group.

EYDG said it was happy to be a part of this process in assisting the family in rebuilding and would extend gratitude to Gavin Sharma and friends who would have made this initiative a success.

Members of the EYDG along with the Khan family yesterday

Clement Rohee of the Guyanese electorate.

The PPP/C further said that it abhors the stand publicly adopted by Dr. Surujbally as regards his role and functions as current GECOM Chairman.

The PPP/C lamented and pointed out what it said was “contrary to Mr Surujbally’s claim that he is not involved in the complexities of the operations of the Commission, and that he simply overlooks and chairs the Board, his protestations are all far cries from the truth.”

The PPP/C insists that contrary to Dr. Surujbally’s pronouncements, he “is in-

deed deeply involved in the operations of GECOM.” The PPP/C, which was represented at GECOM through three of its Commissioners, yesterday said publicly that it is Dr. Surujbally and not the Chief Election Officer (CEO), Mr Keith Lowenfield, who gives the general orders and directions to the secretariat.

The opposition PPP/C insists this action on the part of the GECOM Chairman undermines Lowenfield’s authority.

The party states however, “Yet, through his smug public pronouncements, he [Dr. Surujbally] sought to shift his failings onto Lowenfield in an attempt to repeat his misdeeds, resulting in the booting out of Gocool Boodhoo as CE0 of the Commission.”

The party yesterday said too: “It is to be recalled that following the 2011 General and Regional Elections, Surujbally, after coming under tremendous pressure from the then PNC Opposition who had called

for his resignation, apparently sealed a deal, which resulted in the dismissal of Boodhoo and the retention of Surujbally as Chairman of GECOM.” The PPP/C said too that it has been reported that Dr Surujbally, when chairing meetings of the Commission “bullies, brow-beats, threatens, and even intimidates the CE0 and members of the body.”

The party said it wishes to place on record that “whatever the institutional shortcomings at GECOM, the buck stops at the level of the Chairman and the CEO.” As such, the Opposition PPP/C said it is convinced that Dr. Surujbally’s ac-

tions cumulatively, have compromised the independence of GECOM and its functions and role as an agency to ensure free and fair elections have been emasculated.

The political opposition led by its General Secretary, Clement Rohee, had earlier this week given the party’s position that it would not want to contest local government elections under the stewardship of Chairman Dr. Surujbally.

“Not with Surujbally; we have already begun calling for Surujbally’s resignation. We want Dr. Surujbally’s resignation almost immediately.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Guyana cops MDG award for reducing hunger AGRICULTURE, being the main plank upon which Guyana’s economy is based, speaks to the vitality of the sector. This fact was underscored recently when Guyana was bestowed an award for achieving the distinction of meeting the Millennium Development Goal (MDG), relating to hunger.

Earlier this month, this newspaper reported that Agriculture Minister, Mr Noel Holder, was in attendance in Rome, Italy, for three specialised meetings, as well as for issues regarding Guyana’s membership of various agriculturally related organisations.

The Minister also received the prestigious award for Guyana’s success in meeting the MDG in relation to hunger.

The first meeting he at-

tended was the Thirty-ninth Session of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations’ (FAO) Biennial Conference, the General Meeting of FAO. This meeting’s agenda included the appointment of the Director General of the Organisation, Dr. Jose Graziano da Silva. The present Director General was returned unopposed almost unanimously. The count showed that of the 179 countries eligible to vote, 177 voted in his favour.

Guyana’s presence at these forums is very significant. The country, because its topographical and geographical setting in a coastal zone being below sea level and thus prone to flooding, is a member of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Prudent watch is there-

fore always necessary as rising sea levels, increasing air and sea surface temperatures, and changing rainfall patterns, as well as the impact of natural disasters and the degradation of coastal and marine ecosystems, are always matters that impinge on the ‘Sustainable Development’ of countries like Guyana.

The second meeting was vital as it provided an opportunity for SIDS to share experiences and highlight priorities to achieve sustainable development for ‘Food Security and Nutrition.’ Guyana’s success thus far in this area is universally accepted. Guyana has made outstanding progress in MDG1, particularly in the area of halving the proportion of people who suffer

from hunger.

Guyana is also among 38 countries which have met internationally-established targets in the fight against hunger, ahead of the deadline set for 2015.

In addition, the country has also met the more stringent World Food Summit (WFS) goal, having reduced by half the absolute number of undernourished people between 1990-92 and 20102012.

The final meeting was a Special Event ceremony on June 7, entitled ‘Completing the Millennium Development Goals Round: recognising achievements in the fight against hunger’.

The occasion saw Guyana, as one of four countries in CARICOM, receiving special honour for having achieved the distinction of meeting either the ‘World

PPP should accept majority of Guyanese voted for change IT seems as if the PPP is determined to bully the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally into resigning from GECOM, before the party signals any positive involvement in local government elections. The PPP really believes that it can muscle its way back into GECOM by making all sorts of outlandish claims in an attempt to appear righteous.

This same PPP, when the former Chief Election Officer (CEO) Mr Gocool Boodhoo was found to have changed a formula which resulted in the

PPP gaining an extra seat in Parliament, did not cite the profound incompetence of the then CEO and clamour for his resignation. Actually, when his contract was subsequently not renewed there was a groundswell of support for Mr. Boodhoo from known PPP apparatchiks. Mr Boodhoo was even offered a consultancy contract in a ministry under the then PPPled administration.

The PPP can demand the resignation of Dr Surujbally until it is green in the face, that will not happen unless he decides it is time for him to go.

Forty nine percent of the Guyanese people voted for the PPP at the 2015 General and Regional Elections. The PPP owe it to their supporters to carry on with the business of representing their interests.

Instead of dedicating its energies towards vain attempts in removing a constitutionally appointed professional who has consistently performed at the highest standards of his career, the PPP’s leadership should focus on regrouping and re-inventing itself so the party can remain relevant.

If the PPP refuses to take part in local government elec-

tions by virtue of its dislike for the GECOM Chairman, because of some misguidedly perceived suspicion that somehow he had something to do with their current political situation, then I am afraid its supporters will become even more jaded with the obvious lack of leadership and direction the party’s hierarchy is currently displaying.

Political parties lose elections all over the world. Why can’t the PPP accept the fact that a majority of the Guyanese people voted for change?

K. WILLIAMS

Food Summit (WFS) targets and/or the Millennium Development Goals (MDG)’ in relation to hunger.

In the wake of emancipation, freed slaves trekked away from the hated sugar plantations, only working intermittently as per their needs, to pursue an agriculture-based survival mechanism.

Wi t h m o n i e s s a v e d from working in the sugar estates the former slaves bought villages where they established agriculture-based local economies, especially with ground provisions.

Runaway slaves had stolen some paddy grains that had been imported to feed animals from the granaries of the estate owners and had planted rice in the Mahaicony area. Indentured immigrants who, after they had served their term of indentureship were granted marshlands in lieu of repatriation monies had taken

rice cultivation to a different level, from which a parallel economy to the sugar sector grew.

Simultaneously, cash crop farming was pursued aggressively, while kitchen gardens thrived and augmented family pots.

This, in essence, was the emergence of Guyana’s vibrant agricultural sector. Over the years the sector has advanced tremendously, with a variety of non-traditional crops emerging – first as experimental forays, then as village cooperative industries. Value-added products found export markets and appreciated the success of the sector.

The honours heaped on this country for meeting international goals in alleviating hunger should therefore go to ancestors who laid the base and left a legacy that sustains.

What are the duties of parents towards their children, and vice versa?

PARENTS must provide for the material and spiritual welfare of their children. They must love their children in a responsible manner and provide for their healthy growth. They must inspire their children by their own exemplary life and must never neglect to correct their faults.

Parents are responsible to provide the necessary food, clothing, shelter

and medical care insofar as they are able.

They are equally responsible for providing sound education and a sound knowledge of their religion as well as moral training of their children.

Parents must keep their children in healthy environments and rear them to be useful, self –supporting, loyal citizens, and informed, practical

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Invaluable advice to potential homebuilders, homeowners POTENTIAL homebuilders and homeowners should not approach their home-building ventures or acquisition as a casual pleasure ride like going to the market or your favourite store; it is serious business and requires serious planning. It may probably be the largest expenditure in many folks’ lives, whether they have the money to build their home or are borrowing.

Intelligent, detailed planning and smart plans of action are paramount on several issues before you approach any financial institution for a loan. First, try to figure out the following:• What monthly instalments you can afford, plus other monthly expenses such as electricity, water, phone bill, rates and taxes continuously until you pay off your loan.

• Are your sources of income secured for 20 to 30 years, if not what are your alternatives?

• If you are depending on your spouse and children for financial contributions to service the loan, for what period will they extend financial help?

• Are your planning long term, (will your adult children be living with you or move out) this is very important, otherwise you may end up with a house too big for you in your old age. In the short or long term, it will definitely affect your budget as you become older. Maintenance cost, utilities, rates & taxes burden without help may derail your earlier budget.

• Are you planning on building a single or two- family home? A two- family home can bring in much- needed income, especially in your old age. (Don’t build a bigger house than you need or can afford to prove a point to your neighbour or relative, it will cost you).

• How many rooms and space do you need in the short term, will you need the same number of rooms or space in the long term (old age) after your family size is reduced.

• If you are building a single- family home, do you need ground and second floors?

• What materials are best suited for the style/type of house you are building? What is the life cycle of the materials and how will it affect your long- term budget.

• What types of roof are best suited for your environment; minimize energy cost with low, long- term maintenance cost.

• What types of window are best suited for your home and how many windows are ideally needed for proper ventilation and natural lights.

• If the elevation of the land is low, you need to take that into consideration and complete your land- filling before you build (I will elaborate later in this essay).

• How will land -filling impact your budget? Can you add the cost of land-filling in your loan application, or are you going to finance it as your contribution to the house budget? Will the financial institution accept land- filling expense as your financial contribution?

• Landscaping after filling is also very important and costs money, will it be done by self or will it be an expense to your home budget?

Let us assume you are constructing a single-family home, you should consider your physical health and strength. Will you be able to climb the flight of steps several times going up and down the second floor? If you foresee health or infirmity issues, you may consider a lower-level building.

However, a lower level does not mean ground level, which has numerous other issues to consider. If you do not have health or infirmity issues and decide on building a single- family home, I recommend a house approximately eight feet off ground without any accommodation except garage or store rooms at what we refer to as bottom house, you will read why later in this essay.

The materials, type of roof and windows you choose for construction will affect your quality of life and comfort, but most importantly your budget more that you can imagine. Since most of the houses being constructed in Guyana are built with concrete blocks, I will point out a few negatives about concrete which are affecting all concrete homeowners and will affect new homebuilders also.

Concrete is a stone- like material, it will keep cool only in the rainy season or rainy days. During the hot season and on hot days the concrete will absorb the heat/energy from sunlight and store it until the weather becomes cool /colder which are usually late lights/early morning.

For your comfort you will be forced to use numerous fans or air conditioning for long periods to cool your concrete home, yes you are cooling your home. We know that heat rises, heat migrates from hot to cold and cold migrates to heat/hot. Thus, as you are cooling your home with fans or A/C heat from the lower level or ground floor rises to the upper level, external heat will also migrate to the walls of your home as it is being cooled. As such, you will be burdened with a huge monthly light bill to cool your concrete home than you budgeted for.

Earlier, I mentioned that you should consider whether you need ground and second floors for single- family houses. Since the choice of materials for most houses is concrete blocks, it is advisable you build single-family houses approximately eight feet off the ground; this choice will greatly aid in reducing your electricity cost. Air passing through your bottom house will speed up cooling your top floor; also, there will be no heat rising to the top floor from lower floor, so your benefit will be a lower electricity bill.

The type of roof you choose is also very important. If you choose a low roof with ceiling, it will trap the hot, rising heat in your home, which you will be forced to cool especially if your home is sealed/ closed for A/C. I recommend high gable (V) roof with clapboards instead of low ceilings.

Windows are also essential and careful thought is necessary in choosing windows. If you can afford high electricity costs, then you may choose tinted double of single- hung windows. In hot climates such as Guyana’s awning or louvre windows may be more practical for better ventilation, cooling and more natural light.

Land- filling is the most neglected aspect of home- building in home ownership. It is not advisable to build your house then fill the land around and beyond; your house will eventually be below grade.

Water/moisture will migrate via concrete columns and blocks even if you use plastic moisture barrier, that is, because you raised the grade higher than the plastic barrier. Rain and rising groundwater will easily seep into your home causing cold ground floors, delaminating of paint, ceramic/rubber tiles and most importantly corrosion of steel- reinforced bars in columns. Corroded steel bars will expand and crack concrete columns.

Another thorny and expensive problem you will encounter in your house if it is below grade is termite (commonly called wood ants) infestation. Termites live in soil and are often called the “silent destroyer” because they may be secretly hiding and thriving in your home or yard without any immediate signs of damage. All termites consume cellulose-based plant materials, unfortunately, all homes, regardless of their construction type, can provide cellulose food for termite infestation. (I will provide another essay on termites some-

time later). Don’t assume spraying will eradicate termites from houses below grade, it will not.

Assuming you filled your yard after building your house, it will be below grade, you will need to address all issues for faster drainage simply by ensuring your yard is sloped to allow water to drain away from foundation, have adequate gutters with proper downspouts and water tanks are not close to foundation. You do not need water running over your tank to your house foundation.

The issues highlighted above are some of the most important aspects that you need to keep in focus. However, choosing a contractor can be a bigger financial risk; you need to remember that home- building is serious business, whether you are expending your money or a bank loan.

Screen your contractor, ask for references and visit houses contractors built. Speak to the contractors’ employees to get first-hand knowledge about his paying history to employees; you should not hire a contractor who does not pay his employees or hide on payday for you will end up with an unfinished or inferior constructed house.

Establish a payment/work schedule with your contractor for fortnightly or monthly payments. Your schedule must stipulate payment to contractor for quantity /volume and quality of work for fixed sum of payment. Never deviate from your established schedule, you should only pay after the quantity /volume and quality of work agreed is completed, even if is outside the established fortnightly or monthly payment schedule. Most importantly, establish time for completion of your house and monitor progress.

It is advisable to request an attorney, law student or legal aid if possible to draft a contract with work schedule and payment plan included. If the contractors of your choice are unwilling to sign a contract, you may wish to reconsider employing him/ her. Be that as it may, I can foresee the problem with contractors signing contracts unless there is a statutory law, bye laws, licensing or penalties.

A contractor may ask for advance payments before commencement of work, be very cautious and ask what you will get from the contractor for the advance payments. If you are purchasing all materials and the contractor is providing skills, labour, equipment and tools, consider a retainer fee only and stick to your contract.

It is not a good practice to request the contractor you are hiring to draw your plan and prepare your estimate. While there are ethical contractors, there are also many unscrupulous ones who will morph into salesmen and encourage you to build bigger that you can afford; they will also overestimate bills of quantities and cost. Why? Local contractors use a simple rule of thumb to arrive at the contractor’s fee which is 1/3 the value of materials. If you are tardy in choosing a contractor and get an unscrupulous contractor, your contractor’s fee can be the biggest expenditure for very little.

This essay does not cover all houses building issues; the information herein may enlighten those folk who need pertinent advice. Maybe this will encourage other professionals to offer their expertise for readers’ benefit. I anticipate some negative criticism for this essay which is most welcome for readers’ benefit and housebuilders.

HEMWANT PERSAUD Licensed Home Inspector & Home Inspector Instructor

What are the duties of parents towards their children...

From page 6 members of society.

According to the pages of the Hindu spiritual text, The Ramayan, children must love their parents and must never do anything that will

hurt their feelings. They must respect them , pay them due reverence and honour, speak and act with proper deference, accept their corrections readily, consult them and seek their advice regarding important decisions. Children must

be grateful to their parents, try to please and help them, and support them in need.

They must be kind ,obedient and truthful to them and must greet them by bowing to them with clasped hands, and by touching their feet with hu-

mility, saying: “Namastay,” “Pranaam” or “Seeta Ram,” according to their preference and inclination.

The writings of Gowswami Tulsidasji says, “Sanu jaanaie soyi sutubaar bhaagee, jo pitu maatu

bachan anuraagee.”

That child is blessed who is devoted to his parent’s words. A child who gratifies his parents is rare. Blessed is that birth whose parents rejoice on hearing of his good deeds. Such a child is a

gem of Dharma - piousness.

PT. SURENDR ANAUTH PERSAUD Priest in Charge of Patentia Hindu Mandir (Shri Satya Narayna Mandir)

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Personalities clash over GPHC multi-million-dollar janitorial contract

By Leroy Smith WHEN it comes to cleaning the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and its surroundings, the stakes are very high and while one company now holds the contract, a man who is now looking to out-bid the present company is making allegations pertaining to the quality of work being done at the facility.

Michael Ryan, who was once in the employ of the existing company, is accusing the company’s management of short-changing the management of the hospital on several fronts, inclusive of manpower, quality cleaning and adherence to a signed agreement.

Andrew Arthur, the managing director of ‘Clean R Us’ however, is claiming that the allegation of onetime employer Mr. Ryan, who worked as the trainer for junior staff of the company, is the result of bitterness after he was dismissed.

In an interview with this publication last week, Ryan claimed that under the direction of a senior manager of the janitorial company at the GPHC, the cleaners were asked to mix cleaning detergents with water to stretch them, thus diminishing their full effectiveness in dirt and germs removal at the facility.

Asked why he was no longer with the company, Ryan said he got tired of the many wrongdoings therein, and expressed his concerns to the GPHC’s Chief Executive Officer as well as the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health. Both officials, he claimed,paid little attention to his concerns.

He also stated that he found himself getting into constant verbal conflict with the brother of the managing director of the cleaning company regarding sanitation issues around the GPH. Ryan also said that employees had encountered issues when they went to certain state agencies to enquire about deductions from their

salaries, only to find out that those deductions were never remitted. Because of that he stated, the management of the company then changed its name from Mr. Clean to Clean R Us. Reportedly being a housekeeper outside of Guyana at several health facilities, Ryan said that when he rates the cleaning of the hospital on a scale of 1-10 he would give it a rating of 2. He was quick to point out however that the facility will appear to be clean to the naked eye, since ordinary persons visiting and working at the facility who have no experience in cleaning and

janitorial services, the hospital would appear to have been well cleaned.

When contacted by this publication on Thursday to clear the air with respect to the allegations levelled against his company, Andrew Arthur said that to his mind he is convinced that his company is doing an excellent job with respect to the janitorial services at the GPH. He said that the claims of poor work at the facility by the former employee have been made, because Michael Ryan is now aspiring to take over the cleaning of the GPHC. Ryan,he disclosed,has even formed

a company to bid for the contract when Clean R Us existing contract ends.

Ryan worked with the company from September,2014 to April this year.

Arthur showed text messages sent to his phone from Ryan’s mobile number, which in essence sought to forewarn of the decision to bring the company down.

Arthur also refuted any claims that the company withheld remittances to the Guyana Revenue Authority and the National Insurance Scheme after making deductions from workers’ salaries and challenged Ryan to come forward with evidence to support his allegation.

This newspaper was told that Michael Ryan was more interested in discrediting the operations of Arthur’s company so as to pave the way for the likely acceptance of his bid for the contract when it comes up for renewal later this year.

Contacted yesterday afternoon by phone, GPHC Chief Executive Officer, Mr

Michael Khan said he does not recall a Michael Ryan approaching him on any issue regarding the sanitation of the hospital. Khan explained that while he may have been approached, he is also approached by dozens of people on a daily basis and hundreds on a weekly basis, so remembering everyone would be very difficult.

Asked about the general sanitation of the facility, Khan said that he has found no issues with the cleaning of the hospital and as such, he believes that the present company being managed by Arthur is doing a fantastic job of cleaning the facility.

He remarked that the GPHC is a public place that is used by many persons and one cannot expect the hospital to be perfect, but from the time Andrew Arthur’s company has been cleaning the facility, the sanitation level has improved from what it used to be under the previous company that had held the contract.

Dynamic Int’l now seen as preferred carrier of Guyanese – Chief Operating Officer DYNAMIC International Airways, after a bumpy start, has been able to accomplish its goal in establishing itself as the preferred carrier of Guyanese.

The airline has noted that they have proven sustainability of air service between the United States and Guyana as well as progressively increased their customer service levels.

“Since inauguration, Dynamic International Airways has been able to expand its non-stop service between New York, NY and Georgetown, Guyana. Service started initially two times per week and expanded to five times per week this com-

ing high season while still keeping its pricing low and affordable for Guyanese and members of Guyanese ethnicity in New York,” the airline noted.

The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Bill Grey recently stated that, “our goal in the first year of service was to establish ourselves as the preferred carrier of Guyanese. We achieved this by maintaining the highest safety records, delivering the most desirable schedule, and reached highest on time performance standards as well as exemplary customer service.”

He further noted that, “our goal for the immediate future is to build upon

liable and affordable service into two of their favourite international destinations.”

‘Dynamic Airways’ at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport

that momentum and expand our non-stop JFK to GEO service by operating daily frequency. Most importantly continue raising the bar in our safety, reliability, and customer service standards.”

“We believe that our

coming daily service from Georgetown to New York combined with non-stop service from Georgetown to Toronto, which we intend to start in October of this year (2015), will allow us to provide Guyanese with safe, re-

NEW JOBS Grey noted also the number of jobs his company would have made available and with new additions more jobs would be created.

“As you probably already know we have directly and indirectly created over 150 new jobs in Guyana with our service to New York by hiring Guyanese-based flight attendants, local ground handlers, catering providers and we expect a similar positive impact with the launch of our new service to Toronto.”

“Dynamic has proven its intent and dedication to stay, improve and grow international travel to and

from Guyana. Expect some amazing surprises for loyal passengers and exciting announcements from Dynamic in coming days,” he added.

Dynamic International Airways is a US-certified Far Part 121 Air Carrier. The airline changed ownership and management in 2013 with the goal of providing high quality, affordable, long haul, point-to-point air service.

Dynamic Airways, which is headquartered in Greensboro, NC, offers service from airports in New York, Guyana, Florida, Hong Kong, Palau with its fleet of B767 wide-body aircraft. Recently the company has added ‘International’ in its official name as a reflection of its transition into a long haul carrier.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Accountant gunned down in Meadow Brook home invasion

By Leroy Smith

JASON Kurt, a 27-yearold accountant, was on Wednesday evening gunned down in the lower flat of his Jamoon Drive, Meadow Brook Gardens home by a lone gun-toting intruder.

Kurt who was employed at the Rubis Service Station at Providence, East Bank Demerara, had just returned home with his girlfriend after a late night out. The shooting incident occurred at approximately 22.30hrs.

This newspaper understands that after Kurt and his girlfriend returned home, the young lady went to the upper flat of the building while he remained in the lower flat.

Shortly after she reportedly heard a loud explosion which sounded like a gunshot. She began calling out to the young man but got no response and that caused her to panic and she reportedly telephoned a close friend to come over to the house.

When the friend arrived

the accountant was found on the floor battling for his life and his girlfriend was alerted. She came downstairs and they rushed him to the Balwant Singh Hospital where he died while receiving medical attention.

At the home the police in their investigations were told by the young lady that a Nintendo Game and the mobile phone of the dead man were missing. Kurt was also said to be the holder of a licensed .32 firearm and according to sources close to the investigation the weapon was also taken by the gunman.

The police were however able to recover a spent shell from a 9mm pistol. There was no evidence that the man had a chance to use his weapon to fend off his attacker.

The man’s girlfriend was being questioned thoroughly yesterday by investigators as they sought to come up with clues that may have caused him to be shot.

At least one eyewitness from the Meadow Brook

DEAD: Jason Kurt

area did confirm to police that after hearing the loud explosion and peering outside the window a lone male was seen jumping over the fence out of the victim’s yard and making good his escape up the road.

The police have since launched a hunt for the suspect as their investigations into the shooting continue.

Miner charged with discharging firearm, unlawful wounding A MINER charged with discharging a loaded firearm and unlawful wounding was yesterday granted $400,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Godfrey Lambert of Lot 70 Anira Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the charges, which have been laid indictably.

It is alleged that on Tuesday, June 16, at Wallaba

Backdam, with intent to commit murder, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Quincy Abraham.

The other charge against Lambert stated that on the same day at Wallaba Backdam, he discharged a loaded firearm at Abraham, with intent to cause him grievous bodily harm.

Lambert was represented by Attorney-at-Law Mr. Nigel Hughes and the court was informed by police pros-

ecutor Bharat Mangru that Abraham is now out of danger.

The defendant was ordered to report every fortnight on Fridays to the officer in charge at the Port Kaituma Police Station, commencing Friday, July 3,2015. He was granted $200,000 bail on each of the charges, and the matter was transferred to the Port Kaituma Magistrates Court for Monday, June 29,2015.

Cook accused of setting fire to lover’s house A TWENTY-three-yearold cook accused of setting fire to a house was yesterday placed on $125,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Naiomi Goodrich, of Lot 928 ‘B’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, denied the charge when it was read to her.

Particulars of the charge said that on Tuesday, June 16, at Aranka Landing, she

unlawfully and maliciously set fire to the house of Collis McGregor, with intent to injure him.

According to the prosecution, Goodrich and McGregor shared a relationship. However, the court heard that both parties had an argument during which Goodrich threatened to burn down McGregor’s house.

Subsequent to the altercation, McGregor left his

home to sleep elsewhere after which he received a call that his house was on fire.

According to the police prosecutor, Goodrich admitted committing the offence.

The woman,who was unrepresented by counsel, was ordered to report to ‘F’ Division and the matter was transferred to the Bartica Magistrates Court, for Friday, July 3,2015.

Man gets 57 years for fatally stabbing friend

– jury disbelieves ‘sodomy’ attack tale

By George Barclay CLIVE Knights, 33 years, used an ice-pick to puncture the heart and lungs of Bert Whyte, 44 years, claiming that he was forced to do so because Whyte had been sexually assaulting him in a car.

Knights, who was accused of committing the offence on 14th May, 2012, later told the police that, “Bert was my friend. I did not intend to kill him. I am sorry.”

Before imposing sentence, Justice Navindra Singh told the prisoner, “I can’t understand why you killed your friend.”

The jury’s unanimous verdict of guilty of murder showed that they disbelieved the story told by the accused.

Knights had said that he was sleeping in a car and woke up to find that he was being sodomised by Whyte, the man he killed with an ice-pick.

Judge Singh in his summation to the jury told them that if by the evidence they came to the conclusion that the accused was protecting himself from being attacked in the manner described, causing him to hit out with the ice-pick, that would be justifiable homicide by law, and they would have to find him not guilty.

Following the jury’s ver-

dict of guilty, the judge said that he would begin his sentence with 60 years.

He stated that considering the prisoner had been incarcerated for three years, that period would be deducted from the sentence of 60 years, leaving him to serve 57 years in jail.

The prisoner will be eligible for parole after serving 30 years.

Prosecuting in the matter were Judith Mursalin and Narissa Leander. Attorney-at-law Konyo Thompson defended the accused.

The accused took the sentence calmly and when asked whether he had anything to say, he replied, “No.”

GPL says...

Burst conductor results in system shutdown THE Guyana Power and Light (GPL) yesterday said that a burst conductor on a 69Kv transmission line stretching from Canefield to Skeldon caused the line to trip, resulting in a total shutdown in the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System.

However, restoration

of electricity commenced i n G e o rg e t o w n a r o u n d 06:15hrs, continuing into all remaining areas in Demerara and Berbice, a GPL release said. Simultaneously, emergency crews were investigating the line in a bid to locate the compromised section of the line.

Furthermore, replace-

ment of the damaged conductor was ongoing yesterday and was expected to be completed by last evening.

However, this should not affect the supply of electricity to customers in either county, GPL noted. The power company also expressed regrets at the inconvenience caused.

Official results of General Elections available Online JUST over a month after Guyana’s General and Regional Elections, the gazetted official results of the elections are now available on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) website: www. gecom.org.gy.

A statement released by GECOM yesterday noted that the official results provide a “detailed breakdown” of each Registration District by Division and Sub-Division. The intent of placing the results online, according to GECOM, was so “anyone can have access to them for perusal in their own time.”

Additionally, the elections regulatory body revealed that the official results of

the 2015 General and Regional Elections are “true, correct and credible” and follow elections that were “peaceful, free, fair and transparent.”

Meanwhile, they noted that elections observer teams, both international and domestic, have all reacted extremely positively to the efficient and effective conduct of the elections by GECOM. “There have been no credible, provable and evidence-based reports of any fraudulent election activity on the part of GECOM by any political party and reputable local and/or foreign observer groups,” the GECOM statement concluded.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Gov’t prepared to Election of toshaos set for July engage Venezuela on PetroCaribe deal

– to seek possible renegotiation, extension CABINET has mandated that efforts be undertaken to engage neighbouring Venezuela on the terms of the PetroCaribe agreement, and its extension.

Minister of State, Mr Joseph Harmon told reporters of this development during a post-Cabinet briefing Wednesday at the Ministry of the Presidency. He said the move comes at a time when other competing South American nations are eyeing the Venezuelan rice market, when the industry is not at its best with longstanding stakeholders.

“We have been advised that there are other countries in the South American continent that are pushing to take over that rice market in Venezuela,” Minister Harmon said.

He, however, said the government is optimistic that due to the length of

time that the two countries have been engaged in this trade, Guyana should have an advantage in maintaining its market share.

“We believe that because of the length of time that we have been shipping rice to the Venezuela market, they might have become accustomed to Guyana’s rice, and we stand a better chance of being able to negotiate a longer-term arrangement.”

With Guyana aiming to sell more than 200,000 tonnes of rice and paddy to Venezuela for this year, Minister Harmon reiterated that the PetroCaribe Fund, set up to hold the proceeds from the oil-forrice arrangement was “still bare”, and debtors were demanding outstanding payments. “What we are getting so far are bills,” Minister Harmon said, adding that this was as a result of “years

of mismanagement by the former Administration when they were in government.”

The minister said by way of a reminder that the shipments of rice to Venezuela under this arrangement come to an end this year.

“We are engaging Venezuela on a bilateral basis to see whether it is possible to extend that facility for Venezuela to continue buying rice from Guyana.”

Harmon said the Foreign Affairs Minister has been assigned to assist with this matter, while “other ministers will be engaged in this type of shuttle diplomacy to ensure that we get the best out of this situation.”

Government is currently seeking to source some US$15 million to cover outstanding amounts owed to rice producers and other stakeholders in the sector. (GINA)

Scotiabank launches ‘Jump in and drive’ auto loan promotion

Members of Scotiabank along with the participating auto dealers yesterday at the launching of the promotion

NEW auto loan customers are set to benefit in several ways as Scotiabank yesterday launched its “Jump in and drive” auto loan promotion which runs from the remainder of June to August 31, 2015.

During the launching ceremony yesterday, Scotiabank’s Country Manager, Raymond Smith encouraged customers to come onboard and join the promotion.

The promotion is expected to make it more affordable to own a vehicle now as Scotiabank has partnered with various auto dealers from across the country in this initiative. It is also being seen as an effort to develop the economic activities within the country.

Meanwhile speaking more in-depth about the promotion, Scotiabank’s Marketing Manager, Jennifer Cipriani said that in order to participate, persons must visit one of the participating auto dealers to choose the vehicle he/she wishes to purchase, then the auto dealer

will complete a coupon and give it to the customer, after which he/she will submit the coupon to any preferred Scotiabank branch to apply for an auto loan.

Some of the ways in which auto loan customers will benefit include: ● Special interest rates with low monthly payments ● Up to 100% off financing for qualified customers ● No installment for the first month ● Repayment between 4 and 6 years ● The first 120 auto loan customers will each receive $10,000 in gas at any Rubis Service Station in Guyana ● All approved auto loans during the campaign period will be automatically entered into monthly draws in July, August and September for a prize of one year’s comprehensive insurance coverage to a maximum of $150,000 ● New auto loan customers can enter Scotiabank’s Facebook competition to win $50,000 cash and $50,000 donation to a children’s char-

ity of his/her choice.

Meanwhile, in order to enter the Facebook competition the customer must first take a good quality photo of him/herself and/or family in the vehicle financed by Scotiabank under the ‘Jump in and drive campaign’.

Then they would have to post the photo at anytime between June 15 – September 4, 2015 on “facebook.com/ ScotiabankGY” with the caption ‘I got a real deal with a Scotiabank Auto Loan’.

The photograph with the most likes by September 4, 2015 (minimum of 20 likes to qualify) wins the contest.

The monthly drawings will be pre-recorded and aired on Scotiabank Money Moves on the National Communications Network (NCN) Channel 11, as the first draw will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2015 at 20:05hrs; the second draw on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at the same time; and the third and final draw on Wednesday, September 9, 2015 also at the same time.

ELECTIONS for Amerindian Leaders (Toshaos) will be held between July 16 and July 22, according to Minister of State, Mr Joseph Harmon.

Minister Harmon, at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, said that Amerindian Affairs Minister and Vice-President, Mr Sydney Allicock has been “aggressively pursuing elections for Toshaos in 187 Indigenous communities across the country.”

He explained that, based on numerous reports government ministers had received about how funds were spent in the various communities, an audit will be done prior to the planned elections, so as to satisfy residents that monies

allocated were spent “in the way they were meant to be spent in their communities.”

According to the Amerindian Act, “Elections shall be held in a village at intervals of not more than 36 and not less than 33 months, under the direction of a returning officer.”

The Act further states: “The date of the election shall be fixed by the minister, in consultation with the returning officer, and the Minister may fix a date for the election of a Toshao, one which is different from the date fixed for the election of the councillors.”

It also says that “the returning officer shall give the Village Council a written notice of election not later than 35 days before election

day, which shall confirm the day on which the election will be held.”

According to the law, upon receiving the election notice, the Village Council shall immediately call a Village General Meeting, and inform the people of the contents of the election notice.

Additionally, not later than 60 days before the election date, the Village Council shall compile an electoral list of all adult residents, display the electoral list at the Village Office, and permit all residents to inspect it. The Village Council must also submit the electoral list to the returning officer.

The last election for Amerindian leaders was held in April 2012. (GINA)

In wake of GWI chlorine spill...

ECHO urges serious attention to storing toxic gases, chemicals THE Environmental Community Health Organisation (ECHO) has called on the competent authority to pay serious attention to the way potentially toxic chemicals and gases are stored in local communities, as these pose various risks to public health and the natural environment.

Last week, the organisation noted that a chlorine leak at the Guyana Water Inc. Water Treatment Facility at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, affected residents in that area. “Many days after, there had been no official report on what caused the leak. No one knows the real effects on the health of the residents in areas contiguous to that facility,” ECHO said

in a statement.

“We believe that GWI has an obligation to say the following: how is the gas used, stored and managed by that agency? What are the current monitoring and maintenance plans for those gases and allied chemicals, in facilities in that and other areas? What residents should do in the event of such a leak? What are the general and specific policies in place to deal with such incidents and accidents? What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in assisting to prevent such accidents?” the statement added.

In this modern time, ECHO said it is of the view that using, storing, and

managing such gases and chemicals should be in strict compliance with a written hazard communication programme. Information should be provided on the action to be taken in the event of an accidental release of toxic gases and chemicals.

“Therefore, we are asking GWI to provide information on what is really happening at these facilities across Guyana.

It is not enough for that agency to say that the leak has been contained. More needs to be said about the management of such gases and chemicals, in neighbourhoods that are very vulnerable to the effects of such leaks and spills,” ECHO said.

Technical problems hit U.S. visa systems A STATEMENT released by the United States (US) embassy yesterday has advised the general public that the Bureau of Consular Affairs in the US continues to experience technical problems with their visa systems, globally.

However, efforts are being made “around the clock” to resolve the issue with the assistance of more than 100 computer experts, sourced from both the private and public sectors across the US. The embassy revealed that the problems stemmed from a hardware failure in a State Department facility in the United States on Tuesday, June 9. “That failure is preventing the Department from processing and transmitting biometric data checks at visa-issuing

embassies and consulates,” the statement added.

As a result, they noted that efforts cannot be made to bypass the legal requirements to screen visa applicants before they are issued visas for travel. Each visa decision is a national security decision, the embassy said, adding that they take seriously, their obligation to protect the United States.

Furthermore, it was revealed that there is no expectation that the system will be online before next week. As such, applicants who were requested to uplift their visas today (June 19) and Monday, June 22, should “not come to the embassy” to get their passports.

“We cannot print visas at this time,” the statement noted.

To this end, the embassy committed to proving additional guidance on “pick-up times” when systems are back online.

Applicants were also encouraged to check the Consular section’s Facebook page for updated information as it becomes available: https://www.facebook. com/pages/Consular-Section-US-Embassy-Georgetown/140095222235 “ We re g re t t h e i n convenience to travellers and recognise that this is causing hardship to those waiting for visas, and in some cases, their family members or employers in the United States. We will continue to post regular updates on our website, travel.state.gov.” the statement concluded.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Opposition proposes gov’t deal expeditiously with AML/CFT Bill – to spare Guyana greater int’l pressure THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is calling on the new government to ensure that Guyana enacts as early as possible the amended Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism legislation, lest the country be exposed to greater international pressure.

PPP/C executive member and former Attorney-General Anil Nandlall at a press conference yesterday at Freedom House, said he hopes his successor, Mr Basil Williams, is

attending relevant meetings of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), where Guyana has to update the regional body on the progress made in amending the legislation.

“I hope that the Attorney-General is attending those meetings, because at those meetings, he is supposed to update the CFATF on where we are currently, in terms of complying with a regime of obligations and courses of action to which we have committed ourselves as

a country. Included among them is the enactment of a new amended bill, bringing Guyana up to speed with where the rest of the world is,” Nandlall explained.

The CFATF issued a public statement in May 2013 recommending that Guyana take steps to ensure that it address its AML/CFT deficiencies. In November 2013, CFATF issued a further public statement calling upon its members to consider implementing counter measures to protect their financial systems

from the ongoing money laundering and terrorist financing risks emanating from Guyana.

The former AG noted the “lack of information” from the AG’s Chambers as it relates to Guyana amending its AML/CFT legislation. He further noted that more information will have to be added to the Bill if Guyana takes longer to pass the Bill in the National Assembly.

Nandlall stressed that the“longer we take to pass this Bill, it is more we will have to add to the Bill, because it is an evolving process. Everyday new infor-

mation emanate from these international agencies, that countries are expected to incorporate and implement within its legal and financial structure. So the longer that we take to do so the more onerous the responsibility becomes.”

Responding to the question of whether the PPP/C’s presence in Parliament will affect the passing of the AML/CFT Bill, he responded noting that he does not believe the PPP/C’s absence or presence will jeopardise Guyana’s ability to comply with its obligations.

“We only have 32 seats,

so even if we go there and vote against the Bill, our absence there cannot be construed as a basis for exposing Guyana to the perils to which it has been exposed, or continues to be exposed,” he asserted.

The amended AML/ CFT Bill was presented before the10th Parliament, but remained in a parliamentary Special Select Committee where the government and opposition, which latter held a majority in the House, could not reach a consensus on the changes that should be effected.

No public funds spent on Men’s Affairs Bureau to host Father’s Day Programme Ministers overseas trip – Minister of State MINISTER of the State, Mr Joseph Harmon has stated emphatically that no public money was used to finance a recent trip to the United States by Government officials for a victory rally.

Minister Harmon, along with Minister of Gover-

nance, Mr Raphael Trotman; Minister of Tourism, Ms Kathy Hughes and other officials travelled to Brooklyn, New York to participate in an A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) victory rally which was held on June 14.

Minister Harmon said, “Let me be very categorical about this: The visit of

ministers Raphael Trotman, Kathy Hughes and myself and the other officials were paid for by the organisers of the event, lock stock and barrel. That is to say, airline tickets, hotel accommodation, and transportation on the ground.”

He added, “Not a cent from the public purse was spent on that visit.”

(GINA)

PPP/C objects to forensic audits by Ram, Goolsarran THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is disgruntled over the use of Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram and former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran by the Government to carry out forensic audits on some 40 entities of state and government agencies.

During a press conference held at Freedom House yesterday, former Attorney General Anil Nandlall told the media that the party has no confidence that the findings of Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram and former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran would be objective.

“The two gentlemen had, almost on a daily basis, criticised the PPP/C while in government for its management of the economy, which they believe was laced with

corruption and fraudulent practices,” he noted.

“Look at who they choose to do these audits, two sidekicks of theirs,” Nandlall said, as he dismissed the audits to be carried out by Ram and Goolsarran as being tainted with bias.

“An audit as I understand [it] is an objective forensic analysis of the financial systems and how it works and how monies were spent.

I cannot be persuaded that Christopher Ram and Anand Goolsarran can ever bring an objective mind to bear on this process,” Nandlall said.

Nandlall charged the APNU+AFC government to also carry out forensic audits at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), where he noted that “he believes the biggest electoral fraud took place and that

was during the May 11, 2015 elections.” He stressed that the APNU+AFC had led the country to believe that there was mammoth corruption in the then PPP/C government, but says their resort to these audits clearly shows that the corruption never existed.

The APNU+AFC (A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change) government when it took office a month ago announced that it is their intention to audit more than 30 agencies and examine projects and funds initiated by the former PPP/C government. Among the agencies to be audited are the Guyana Revenue Authority, the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

– under the theme ‘My Father, My Friend’

THE Men’s Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Social Protection will be hosting a Father’s Day Programme under the theme ‘My Father, My Friend’.

According to Mr Diego Alphonso, Administrator of the Men’s Affairs Bureau, the event will feature a blend of cultural items, an interactive segment and dissemination of knowledge in relation to the theme. The purpose of the programme is to create a space and an event that promotes bonding between fathers and their children, not only at the event but for the rest of their lives.

The programme will be family oriented and will not exclude mothers or other family members who may wish to attend.

However, spaces are limited so interested persons will need to reserve places in advance by calling 226-1922 or 628-0310

The details are as follows: ► Venue: De Impeccable Banquet Hall, Lot 90 Brickdam & Sandeman Place, Stabroek ► Date: Sunday 21st, June, 2015 ► Time: 5PM ► Admission: Free

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Nurses protest termination of – call for CEO’s GPHC matron’s service resignation

CEO Michael Khan of GPHC comments on the issue

“WRONGFUL dismissal”, “Khan must go”, and “Nursing in Crisis” were among slogans written and voiced by nurses who protested for two consecutive days after Matron Colleen Hicks was dismissed

by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Khan, of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Wednesday.

The nurses protested in front of the administrative

office of the hospital on New Market Street on Wednesday and yesterday during their lunch break. They expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision made by Khan for dismissing the matron while calling for him to resign.

Senior Departmental Supervisor, Keith Alonzo who coordinated the protest, said after Hicks’ letter of termination reached him on Wednesday morning, he immediately mobilised the nurses from all departments of the hospital to take action.

When approached by this publication on Wednesday, the nurses said the matron is well respected, for she would always tend to their needs, and has a good personality.

When asked the reason for the Hicks’ termination, Khan said that Hicks had been on probation, and was terminated “for gross insubordination.”

Alonzo, on the other hand, said the termination letter did not give a reason for the matron’s dismissal, and was very brief.

“There was no reason stated in the letter; Matron Hicks

Mr Keith Alonzo, Senior Departmental Supervisor encouraging nurses to voice their complaints

was never insubordinate but rather assertive, and would always perform her duties diligently,” said a surprised Alonzo when questioned about the letter.

Khan said letters were previously sent to Hicks and she had been unwilling to comply with directives in those letters. As such, another letter was sent to the former matron on Wednesday morning to further notify her of

her termination, which she still is unwilling to accept and refuses to leave her office, stated Khan when contacted yesterday.

In this regard, Khan said he is currently seeking advice from both his Lawyer and Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton. He further stated that Hicks is to be replaced by an Assistant Director (Matron) once she is not “reinstated.”

Meanwhile, the nurses slogans also targetted Dr. Zulfikar Bux, Head of the Accident and Emergency (A&E) services at the Georgetown Public Hospital, saying that he is “incompetent” and needs to resign along with Khan.

In addressing this, Khan said, “Dr. Bux is a hard-working doctor, and has always striven for the betterment of the hospital. These are all false allegations.”

Among the mentioned slogans hurled at Khan, were “we need an audit” and “where are the Christmas party monies?”

This newspaper understands that Khan did not host a Christmas party last year for the nurses since there was not adequate money. As such, the nurses are alleging that Khan stole the monies that were allocated for the party.

When asked about this, Khan confidently said: “I am no thief! I have never stolen anything from this hospital. We never had the party because we didn’t have the money, but the money is in the finance department. They [nurses] want to scourge my name? Let them check with the finance department!”

Many are of a view that given the circumstances at the hospital, patients are not being fully attended to. When asked, the nurses said that they are using their lunch hours to protest which will not impact the patients in any way and have vowed to continue protesting until the former matron is reinstated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Snr. Sup Dass to ranks...

‘Don’t knock the people children’

By Leroy Smith

SENIOR Superintendent of Police and Divisional Detective of ‘A’ Division Reshi Dass during a recent engagement with ranks of the division cautioned them very sternly against physically assaulting members of the public.

“Ensure that you bring the people’s children, question them and do not torture them. If you torture them and you get off, you will face the law in other countries, once you go there, because torture is unacceptable throughout the world,” Dass told police ranks.

The senior police rank also mentioned the zero-tolerance approach of the present government to the issue

of torture, citing statements recently made by Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan.

Senior Superintendent Dass reminded the junior ranks that there are ways of getting information out of members of the public without resorting to the use of force and inhumane practices. He spoke specifically to methods of conducting interviews and interactions with the persons who are held by the police for questioning.

The crime officer also reminded the ranks about holding persons in the lockups for minor offences, when they can be placed on station bail as investigations continue. He spoke of the need to hold persons in custody if the offences are indictable, but in

Senior Superintendent Reshi Dass

such cases the matters must be brought to the Divisional Crime Officer who will in turn inform commander of the division.

He also echoed statements made by Commander

Hicken against police officers turning persons away from police stations, because an investigating rank may be absent at the time a civilian shows up to make a report.

“Take the people’s statements, because if you do not and something should happen or go wrong you will find yourself in trouble; all reports must be entertained,” he added.He cautioned too against the practice of police ranks moving to settle matters between aggrieved parties.

Also in focus was the issue of police ranks who show

up to give evidence in court or appear to be heading to the court to provide evidence in matters, but in some cases do not attend court.

According to Mr. Dass,the practice is unlawful, and management of the Police ‘A’ Division has now implemented systems to address same.

There are now diaries at the respective police stations as well as the courts, which ranks detailed for court will have to sign before leaving; and once they arrive at court they are expected to report to the prosecutor and also sign into a diary there to

prove that they did show up for court. In the past, ranks would leave for court and then are never spotted for the remainder of the day.

“We are looking at ranks attending court, and the amount of time we are attending court as well as the time we are losing on the spot in the division.

Sometimes we have a lot of people going to court at the same time; and to be frank with you, we do need the manpower on the ground to get the job done that we have to do,” Dass explained.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19 2015

Plans afoot to fix Haags Bosch la A REMEDIAL action plan to ensure sound environmental management of the Haags Bosch landfill site is now in the process of being developed by the Ministry of Communities.

Initially, the site was designed to function as a sanitary landfill, but is now operating below its designated purpose.The operation has resulted in negative impacts to both adjoining communi-

ties and the environment. The project, which was initially funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), has seen the threatened withdrawal of the bank’s involvement over the way the project is currently being executed.

A presentation was made to the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Junior Minister of Communities, Keith Scott; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Com-

munities, Emil McGarrell; Engineering Adviser to the Ministry of Communities, Charles Ceres; and representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Central Housing and Planning Authority “on the way forward” for the site.

The presentation, which was made on Thursday, June 4 by Mr. Gordon Gilkes, Project Director of the George-

town Solid Waste Management Programme, identifies several non-compliant items related to operations at the site.

These items included the absence of a treatment- abatement lagoon and a landfill gas management systems and the application of daily cover to the landfill. In addition, soil excavated from several locations onsite, intended for use as daily cover, was diverted,

with the agreement of the executing agency, to another location for use not related to landfill management.

The project, initially conceptualised to be managed by the Georgetown municipality, is now managed by central government, since it was expanded to include several Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) on the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara

as well as three NDCs on the West Demerara.

The contract for the construction and management of the landfill was awarded to BK International and Puran Brothers Disposal Services and utilisation of the landfill was fast tracked, since the open dump formerly operated in Le Repentir Cemetery had reached its capacity.

Minister Bulkan in his remarks indicated that the current

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

andfill site state of the Haags Bosch landfill site resulted from a propensity to micromanage.

“Ideally, solid waste management would now be the responsibility of the local authorities and not central government’s as was done in the immediate past,” he asserted.

Bulkan stated that the lessons learnt on remedying the landfill site would inform the ministry’s efforts in strengthening Local Dem-

ocratic Organs for the management of such sites.

Under a solid waste management strategy, the new Government will ensure that waste produced by households and commercial entities will not become an environmental and health problem.

It is envisaged that under such a strategy, existing dumpsites will either be closed or re-formulated to achieve higher operational standards.

A section of the Haags Bosch landfill site

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Tel # 227-5216

Vizion Kids Show set to explode

University of Guyana unleashes ‘Academic Freedom Evolved’

in Linden and Georgetown

MY mother would always say, “Too much work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. And I think the folks at the University of Guyana would have listened, just as I did, since, on Saturday, June 20, they will unleash their ‘Academic Freedom Evolved Party’ at the 704 Nightclub (Albert and Lamaha Streets, Georgetown) Set aside the books just for a bit, put on your classic outfits, and come party in wild abandon to throbbing sounds made possible by Selector Diamond and DJ Tallest.

Come enjoy beer specials all night, and be admitted free with your UG identification card. Persons arriving before midnight will also be admitted free of charge.

-Jamaican magician set as centre of attraction

Popular Jamaican magician ‘Wizard’ IT’S nice to see that someone is actually catering for the whims and fantasies of Guyana’s children, as Vizion Sounds entity is poised to host one of the biggest kids shows ever at two locations in Guyana.

The first show will be staged on July 26 at the Mackenzie Sports Complex Ground in Linden, while another massive show will explode at the DCC Ground in Queenstown, Georgetown on July 27.

And folks, this will be a kids’ show with a difference in that promoters will be bringing the Jamaican magician, ‘The Wizard’, who will be a climax feature at both events. Other attractions will include the popular ‘fire

eater’ Shawn Thomas out of Linden.

Parents are urged to bring out their kids in all their numbers since the Dora and Sponge Bob characters will be hopping and prancing all over the place.

Trampoline, Ferris Wheel and Merry-Go-Around will bring extra excitement, as the kids are allowed to mingle and interact with their favourite cartoon characters.

MAGICIAN Kemarch ‘Wizard’ Dodd is not content with pulling rabbits from a hat. He prefers illusions of a grander scale. He was one of three magicians billed for Magic Madness held at MX3 Lawn in Negril, recently.

The others were Andrew Campbell and Merrick Panton.

The former Tivoli Gardens Comprehensive student, who describes his show as “clean family fun”, has his sights on a bigger showcase.

“I would want to do a reality series TV show. It would be like that of American magician David Blaine, where I would meet everyday people in the street and perform magic,” he said.

Blaine is a renowned American illusionist who made his name as a high-profile endurance artist and street magician.

Dodd says there are illusions he would love to do for a wider Jamaican audience. “I could make a motor car disappear in thin air,” he said. “I have an arsenal of illusions to keep that show going on for years.”

Dodd says his love affair with magic began when he was 14. He said he would feed his desire by visiting the Tom Redcam Library in Kingston, daily.

His passion has afforded him the opportunity to perform at several North Coast hotels, as well as in Grenada, Curacao, and Guyana.

Bombshell’s Suga Mommas…

Antoinette Vieira the Guyanese brown suga

Lick your lips and drool for her Caribbean tastiness

THIS lady can be likened to a huge serving of the finest Guyanese brown sugar. And what’s more is that she is spicy and certainly knows how to flaunt her vivacious sexiness.

To make her sugar bowl complete, Antoinette Vieira serves up a rather enticing recipe, which I now take pleasure in sharing with our readers: To match the ultra sexiness of this ‘Caribbean Suga Momma’, you ladies will have to be able to serve up flashing dreamy smiles, pearly white teeth, Caribbean dimples, a tantalizing body, and red hot ‘provocative sexiness’.

Your platter will have to be complemented with the ability to tease, appease, excite, create provocative thrills, and be able to provide a trip to the very centre of the galaxy.

This 23-year-old diva enjoys watching movies, listening to music, dancing, and meeting very creative people; and she certainly enjoys the finer things of life.

It is not in her nature to settle for second best, and she always ever aims for the highest heights.

Antoinette dismisses the old saying that ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’.

Instead, she believes that one should not set out to conquer a man only through one’s culinary expertise, but one should also have to be capable of satisfying that man’s every whim and fantasy, and be able to make one’s self just as tasty and interesting as the meals one prepares.

Sorry dudes, she didn’t leave a number, “and she done get a boyfriend already!!

The captivating Antoinette Vieira

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Trendy Plus rescues the ‘curvy gyals’ with super-trendy fashions NO offence meant, my skinny divas, but it’s high time you stop being too mean to our ‘curvy sistas’ and accept the FACT that ‘big’ can also mean ‘bold and beautiful’.

Our bigger women have, for too long, been made to suffer at the hands of their disdainful skinny sistas, since hardly any forum has been showing interest in catering to the big girls, thereby allowing them to flaunt their vivacious presence or obtain the best they

LIL RICK

deserve in fashion.

Today the Trendy Plus Store comes to the rescue with fashion ideas of a lifetime to suit and present the bigger girls like the queens they are.

Now our curvy ladies can simply rush down to the Trendy Plus Store at 83 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown and be fitted in classic shoes, lingerie, swimwear, gowns, cocktail dresses, bath robes and everything in which they ever wanted to package their exciting assets.

Now our ‘biggah gyals’ can step out in style and comfort, knowing they are well appreciated and are indeed the centre of attraction of their men folks.

So come on ladies. Hop on the ‘Trendy Train’ and enjoy a ‘fashion ride’ worth dying for.

Of course you can call and make orders and set up appointments by simply dialling 674-4331 or 225-7567.

Come on my curvy ladies. Its time you start trending in style

BIG NAMES REVEALED FOR HJ’S “SOAKA PON DE BEACH” FETE

Auto Expo and Vehicle Sound Off slated for Tuschen Ground IT’S here again folks, and it’s bigger and better than ever!

This massive and well-anticipated Auto Expo and Vehicle Sound Off is ready to engulf the Tuschen Centre Ground, East Bank Essequibo on Saturday, July 04, 2015.

This event will showcase riveting clashes and faceoffs as some of the most celebrated names in the Car and Bike Expo fraternity gather to determine who is the ‘baddest’ in style and sound.

With music supplied by TRS Sounds, the fastidious are given a guarantee that they can come out to revel and mingle with Avengers, Red Jet, Dark Siderz, T-Rex, Xclusive Sound, King Kong, Hulk and many more top vehicle showcases, and have a very very good time!

Entry fee for each vehicle is only $5000.

IN less than a month, Hits and Jams’ Water Park, aback Princess Hotel at East Bank Demerara, will be buzzing with activities, as the entertainment group plans to create a heatwave during the August vacation.

The group has already disclosed that there will be three massive events during the Caricom weekend celebrations. One of the main attractions is the “Soaka Pon De Beach” Fete, which will undoubtedly be the highlight of the weekend. This event is set for Caricom Day, July 6. Thus far, Hits and Jams Entertainment has released the names of several top soca ar-

DESTRA

tistes from Trinidad and Tobago, including Lil Rick, Destra, Shal Marshall, Kerwin Dubois, 5 StarAkil and Fadda Fox. The local line will see Jackie Jaxx; reigning Carib Soca Monarch, Jumo Primo; and Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson.

With the lineup promised, patrons are expected to have a blast.

Soca junkies, be prepared for one of the maddest shows featuring the best in soca rhythms.

Tickets for the event cost $2000 and $3000, and will be available shortly. Ticket locations will also be announced soon.

Premium Pink presents ‘Rain Wet Fete’ THERE are many out there who dream of getting wet, but want to avoid the regular ‘swimming in a pool routine’.

These days, people want to add a concept to almost everything, and to bring a little sizzle and difference to whatever they do.

Well, away with the showering and the bathing at a standpipe method! Come out to ‘Rain Wet Fete’ and get soaked in a manner you would always remember.

This event is billed for tonight at the Palm Court Nightclub (Main Street, Georgetown), and fans are urged to get ready for ‘the wetting’ by Selector Carl Diamond.

Presold tickets are $2000, and the event is sponsored by Star Party Rentals, Premium Pink and 94.1 Boom FM.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Bombshell Profile Personalities…

‘Young Dillas’ promises to demolish competition at ‘Princess Star’ showdown

TWENTY talented amateur singers have made it to the first leg of the ‘Princess Karaoke Star’ competition, which kicked off inside Club Next (Princess International Hotel).

The auditions saw par-

ticipation of vocally talented youngsters from all across Guyana, but many were professionals and had made way for the very lucky amateur singers.

Among the numbers auditioning last Saturday was a

Sandra King is certainly ready for action

very talented hip-hop youth group called ‘Young Dillas’, which made it to the next round. Though many have raved that they will be knocked out early because of their liking to the hip-hop musical genre, the singers yesterday, in an exclusive interview, vowed that they will demolish any competition coming from the seasoned karaoke campaigners.

Of course they will have to face the fiery vocal stampede of hotties like Oquela Jones, Lisa Walcott, Lashaun Charles, DJ Mambo, Iodele Gilbert, Michael Spencer, and a few others.

The ‘Young Dillas’ group comprises some thirteen singers from around Georgetown, who all met and connected at various intervals because of their likeness for the hip-hop sound.

Some of the members have performed at the previous Jamzone Guyana festivities.

This group comprises

The ‘Young Dillas’ group will set the place on fire. of Chinva Peters ( Rafelli), O’Conell Morgan (Kashh), Brian Gonsalves (King Antho), Nial Kingston (Chris Odd), Quason Paul (Young Hayden), Joshua Prass (Jay Urban), ‘Crime Scene’, ‘Poison Ink’, ‘ Young Fame Gno’, ‘Marlon Gonsalves (Ice), Louis Ebenzer, Trey Scott, (Prodigy), Esan Benzy, and others.

Last Saturday, they showcased at the Princess Star

auditions and truly amazed the judges, performing their music genre ‘Acapella style’.

Rafelli is presently working on a mixed tape dubbed ‘Nigga We Causal’, while collaborations with other group members are expected soon.

Jay Urban and Esan Benzy recently released individual mixed tapes, and they have also performed at Upscale Restaurant, Jamzone festivities

2013. Two members of this group have performed on the same stage locally with international rap star Rick Ross.

Well, enough said, folks!

Let’s see what they bring to the platter, as they are expected to sing ‘karaoke style’. Make sure you are at Princess Hotel’s ‘Club Next’ at 9 pm tomorrow to soak up all the fun and excitement.

Aracari Resort celebrates 7th Mahendra Ramkellawan returns with ‘Clash of the Titans’ anniversary with family fun day GUYANESE chutney sensation Mahendra Ramkellawan is certainly back with a bang! And this time he brings to the plat-

ter a stimulating serving of his popular Clash of the Titans’ masterpiece.

This mega event, which has certainly demolished

all the promoting competition in Guyana, will now be staged at two venues to give fans countrywide a chance to have a deserved

Titans, Joel Ghansham and WR Reaz

sampling of the ‘chutney fire’ it unleashes.

On July 04, 2015, this much anticipated event will be staged at the Canje/ Rose Hall Centre Ground in East Berbice from 7:30 pm; while on July 05, the excitement will unfold at the Anna Regina Centre Ground in Essequibo.

This time around, the lineup of artistes is riveting and will include international artistes like Ravi and Nisha B with their Karma Band, alongside KI and JMC 3 Veni. Also on the platter are Veekash Sahadeo, Omadath Maraj, Nishard M (Mischief Maker) and many more.

The Masters of Ceremony (MCs) for the night will be the entertaining Joel Ghansham and WR Reaz.

Regular tickets are being sold at $1500, while VIP tickets will cost $3000.

COME June 28, 2015, the Aracari Resort (160 Plantation Versailles, West Bank Demerara) will be transformed into a blinding whirpool of colour and festivity as folks there celebrate the resort’s 7th Anniversary.

And with their many supporters in mind, the folks are hosting a massive ‘Family Fun Day’ on the lawns of the resort and along its poolside.

Parents are urged to bring out the kids in their numbers, since their favourite characters -- Dora and Sponge Bob -- will be there to mingle and take photographs with them.

That aside, children under six years of age will be allowed to dip and splash in their ‘blue water pool’, and enjoy many giveaways, compliments of the resort’s Managing Director Mr Sase Shewnarain.

Interested persons are asked to call phone numbers 264-2946 or 264-2947 for more information.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Bombshell’s hottest dudes…

Cardell King Willis

Cardell King Willis will tease your erotic taste buds YES, you sly little erotic creatures (my ladies); you have waiting for something to set you off ticking like a time bomb. You have been dying for something to sedate you and engulf you in its lifelike provocative tentacles, taking you to that moment where you teeter crazily on that point of ultimate satisfaction.

Well, aren’t you going to thank me? Come on girls, don’t be so shy about saying ‘thank you’ for such an enticing hunky morsel.

Remember, my hotties, that there are many more where this one came from. Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Haaa!

Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig in.

This week’s male hotness is the raunchy and very virile Cardell King Willis, who is indeed a very phenomenal runway model and avid choreographer.

But if you think that is as far as his skills go, you have another ‘think’

coming. Cardell is very athletic, and loves to keep fit. That aside, he enjoys the outdoors, especially in the arms of that lucky lady who can appease all his wild and even forbidden desires.

Oh come on, ladies!

Don’t be bashful. Stop the blushing and come closer so I can whisper what he wanted me to tell you: “Cardel is waiting for a journey he has fantasized on since in his early teens. He wants to spend one blissful week on an erotic island in Hawaii with his dream girl, clad only in loin cloth. She would be clad in fig leaves, and they would feast on wild berries, grapes and root, and travel to the centre of the galaxy under the twinkling stars” Whoosh!! Such hot language makes me sweat profusely…. Don’t stand there and stare, become his dream girl by contacting him at spicekid235@yahoo.com This trip is all expenses paid.

“GIVE THE PRAISE” CONCERT FOR JUNE 20 AT THE NATIONAL CULTURAL CENTRE GUYANA’s leading gospel singer, Ms Cherlyn Maloney, is set to launch her new hit single, “Give the Praise”, at a power packed concert on June 20 at the National Cultural Centre.

Apart from the songstress, the concert will feature some of Guyana’s best singers, including Dionne Willis, Enea Benjamin, Sherian Nunes, Melissa Vandeyar, Trice Anointed, Amelia Bajit, Second Coming Band and many others.

In addition, there will be a special appearance by a 76-year-old woman, whose has a powerful voice that is guaranteed to make hearts melt during her performance.

The “Don’t Give Up” singer explained that it is always difficult to organise a gospel

concert in Guyana due to the limited market and support.

“We need more copyright laws, lots of our artistes here in Guyana do not get the protection they need because there is no law to protect their work, and they lose a lot because it’s costly to make music,” she highlighted.

Nonetheless, Cherlyn said, she is grateful for her success in the industry, as she thanked all her fans for their support throughout her career.

Tickets for the event cost $1500 and $1000, and are available at Giftland OfficeMax, Matt’s Record Bar, Nigel’s Supermarket, Kester D Music Centre and the National Cultural Centre.

Sultry tips to note when shooting for the Curvy Divas FIVE STEPS TO POSING CURVY WOMEN — NO PHOTOSHOP REQUIRED! I RECENTLY saw a photographer post a “before and after” photo of a beautiful woman. That photo was so drastically Photoshopped that it made the woman look like she had a dozen surgeries to

super model skinny, the photographer must present their clients with liquefied images.

Most women who aren’t stick thin don’t hire photographers to make them look 50 pounds less; they hire the photographer to help them look their absolute best!

When doing portraits, photographers should focus on creating a photo that shows the subject’s personality, dreams, hopes, fears and love. The minute you change the way a woman’s body naturally looks, you are sending the message that she is not beautiful as she is.

As photographers, we can encourage women with any body shape to embrace themselves and feel beautiful, just by how we interact with them during the session and by the photos we deliver. By combining posing techniques with simple editing, you won’t literally change your subject’s weight or shape, but can masterfully control the angles, lighting, and proportions to create images curvy divas would love.

When you photograph a woman, always remind her that you will not make her beautiful, but that she already is! I only imply that this will bring her beauty into focus, and allow her to recognize the beautiful woman that she is today.

POSING CURVY WOMEN: 5 TECHNIQUES FOR FLATTERING IMAGES

make her 40lbs thinner.

The photographer was fishing for critiques from colleagues on whether her editing skills looked natural and proportionate. I couldn’t believe the comments I heard: photographers were praising the image on the effect of the natural editing, and saying how much the woman would love the images.

That woman’s body was so far from her natural shape that she was unrecognizable!

My question is this: Why do many photographers feel the need to distort shapely women to make them look like someone they are not?

There is a misconception that, in order to photograph and please women who aren’t

TECHNIQUE 1: GIVE HER BODY SHAPE You can give her body flattering shape by the way she faces and angles her body and by using her arms to enhance her curves and direct the eye. You can also strategically use the surroundings to cover parts of her midsection or hips, to either break up solid-coloured outfits, or to keep the focus on her face and not her body.

TECHNIQUE 2: DROP THE FRONT SHOULDER AND RELEASE ARM This is one of the best techniques you can use on any woman, and it is so very flat-

tering! Just lower that front shoulder! Every woman wants to avoid the notorious double chin, and this is achieved by elongating the neck and pulling the chin forward.

If you direct her by saying, “Now pull your shoulders down towards the ground,” instead of “Lengthen your neck up”, you usually avoid her lifting her chin and eyes up awkwardly.

TECHNIQUE 3: SHOOT DIRECTLY AT OR ABOVE EYE LEVEL I have found that, across the board, most women have a favourite part of themselves, and that part is her eyes.

Thus tightly framed beauty shots are usually the favourites of their portfolio, because of the focus on the eyes.

You can get away with shooting below eye level on slender women, but it is just not as flattering on women who carry more weight. When you shoot slightly above her eye level, it slims her chin and jawline.

Just be sure to not have her put her chin too far down, because it will make her forehead appear larger than it really is. These tight head shots are also the most flattering through 85mm lenses or more. I usually shoot these on my 70-200mm 2.8 zoomed all the way to 200mm. I think this is so because I can get a very tight shot of her face without invading her space by shooting a foot away from her. I am out of her “bubble”, and she can be more natural.

TECHNIQUE 4: CHIN TOWARDS CAMERA, HIPS FARTHER AWAY This is a simple technique to visually slim her mid-section and hips. Whatever is furthest away from the camera will appear smaller. By having her bring her face closer to the camera and pushing her hips away, she will look proportionate and the focus will be on her face (while also utilizing the previous techniques). sure to have her slightly lower her chin while her jaw is still pulled towards you.

She will feel strange leaning so far forward, but her neck and jaw will look amazing, and her midsection and hips will look flattering.

In the images below, her face was at least a foot closer to my lens than her hips were, creating this lovely slimming effect.

Untitled-1 POSING DIFFERENT SIZED BODIES TOGETHER Techniques 5: Flattering the mom in family photos When posing the Mom in family photos, it is very natural for her to hold her children, but you can use this to balance the composition. Simply place the children in front of mom, to de-emphasize certain areas. Also be sure to use the previous techniques, and she would absolutely love her family photos. This same technique applies when using the surroundings to either cover parts of her lower body or midsection, to keep the focus of the attention on her face.

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ECHO begins ‘Fun with Nature Quiz’ tomorrow on NCN THE Environmental Community Health Organization (ECHO) will begin its ‘Fun with Nature Quiz’ tomorrow on the National Communications Network (NCN) Channel 11, starting at 11:00 hrs.

ECHO said this project is extremely helpful to the organisation, allowing it to

partner with businesses and corporations on an activity that can make a significant difference in the way people see and act towards the environment.

“The business sector could use this project to extend a helping hand to the ECHO. Also, they could make it part of their social responsibility

For Friday June 19, 2015: 05:00hrs For Saturday June 20, 2015: 05:30:00hrs For Sunday June 21, 2015: 05:30hrs

programme. They could obtain credit for their assistance and simultaneously benefit from the positive effect this project wold have on the city and its populace,” ECHO said in a statement.

“Citizens could use this project to improve their knowledge of ECHO, enhance their ability to care for their environment and win prizes. They could also use this project to find answers to questions of information and/ or clarification. Moreover, they can be part of the decision-making process at the ECHO,” it further said.

The organisation is anticipating very active participation from all children across Guyana.

ECHO’s mission is to increase the eco-consciousness and social responsibility of members by providing them access to the natural world, state-of-the-art social media, innovative educational programmes and resources.

Through diverse collaborative partnerships, ECHO intends to develop the next generation of leaders who will have the knowledge, passion and skills to promote and work towards environmental sustainability.

“The vision of ECHO is to be the largest and most widespread and comprehensive organisation for youth environmental education, connecting the community with youth, offering expansive programmes, and providing resources for schools nationwide,” the statement concluded.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19 2015

Aries For you, the next few weeks portend a period of timidity. You will probably go out less, introduce yourself to fewer new people, and be less prone to showing off. But any relationships you do form will be much more intense than usual. The month ahead is quite promising, though you may have to readjust some of your attitudes.

Taurus You may have spent the past few weeks exploring other horizons, meeting new people, going out more frequently, or taking short trips. But there’s a significant change of rhythm in the air. You will settle down and bask in the comfort of your home. You will find that you have just the incentive you need to stabilise yourself for a while. Expect some pleasurable moments in the domestic realm.

Gemini You’re likely to enjoy a change in the rhythm and quality of life, beginning right now. Do you feel a need to take your friendships beyond superficiality? Perhaps you should re-establish contact with some past friends. After a hiatus, you may have some bonds to repair. You can expect another period devoted to sweeping the cobwebs out of your emotional life and letting in light and promise.

Cancer Today you can expect to be more enterprising in your human relationships.

You may find new friends or enjoy quality time with old ones. It’s likely that your love life will intensify. The next few weeks provide excellent resources for improving your emotional well-being. Take advantage of it.

Leo The past month has allowed you to affirm yourself, and cement some aspects of your personality. You’re now entering a period of consolidation.

It’s like you conceived a product, created it, and are now finally ready to put it on the market. The current period indicates that you will receive all of the rewards that your hard work has earned.

Virgo Today heralds the beginning of a very agreeable period. You will be especially happy! You will project confidence, clarity, and charisma wherever you go. You used up a lot of your reserves during the last few months.

You’ve made it to this stage just in time. Certainly you’ll agree that this is something to be celebrated!

Libra This would be a good moment to get rid of anything that still stands between you and achieving your goals. A certain obstacle might be sparking the impulse you have to blend into the background. Don’t forget that you’re an individual. This isn’t something to be overcome. It should be celebrated!

Scorpio The signs say that you can expect a very profitable few weeks ahead.

You’ve worked hard lately, and it’s only natural that you have finally arrived at this stage. You’re going to be able to measure the distance you’ve come and evaluate your power. Whatever you do, don’t think small!

Sagittarius The cosmos will ask you to make more of an effort. To do so means you will have to come back down to Earth and join the rest of us mere mortals.

You may be cultivating your independence a bit too much. You seem to be pulling away from people. You should try to mix more and get involved in a cause that’s bigger than you. Accept working with others as a necessary component of your life.

Capricorn A quest is in store for you. You’re likely to engage in a search for physical or intellectual space. You may be asking yourself philosophical questions.

Or perhaps you’re thinking of taking a long trip. Which will it be? Will you read philosophy or go to China? At this point, only the stars know.

Aquarius In navigating your emotional life, you may feel you’ve made a great effort in the past month. You’ve been available and conciliatory, and done your best to maintain harmony. Your efforts have paid off. Now you feel a yen for more spontaneity. It seems that the enterprising and reckless you has returned! Go ahead - you deserve this release after all of your disciplined effort.

Pisces The cosmic signs indicate that your emotional universe will once again glow with positive energy. You will meet more people, and your encounters are likely to be profoundly gratifying, emotionally and intellectually. All told, the coming month is wonderfully promising for you. Two key things to anticipate are pleasure and sensuality.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Sentinel Security Inc. on board with Caricom Championship

SENTINEL Security Inc. has come on board with the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) as a partner for the Caricom Championship.

At a simple presentation ceremony held recently, Priyta Rampersaud, manager of the Berbice Branch, said the company is always willing to help the Berbice Cricket Board in its effort to promote the noble game of cricket.

She noted that the company is impressed with the work of the board, hence their willingness to assist whenever the opportunity presents itself.

Speaking on behalf of the BCB, Trevor Ramdeholl thanked the Security firm for its generous donation and promised that the company will enjoy good mileage for its money.

He added that the tournament will be well run with transparency and accountability. Funds from the sponsorship will cover the cost of advertisement, pay for the music and a stipend for the gate attendants.

According to the BCB, proceeds from the Caricom Championship, which will be held on July 5 at the historic Albion Sports Complex, will be used mainly to organise a very important Three-Day cricket competition.

Eight top T20 First-Division teams in Berbice will compete in a 10-over knockout competition with the final of 20 overs to be played under lights for a top prize of $80 000 and a trophy.

The runners-up will receive $40 000 and a trophy with the losing semi-finalists copping $15 000 each. The man-ofthe-match in every game will be rewarded. Action will commence at 10:00h.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyville 11:00 hrs Diamond Tiara 11:35 hrs Cutting Edge 12:10 hrs The Lonsdale 12:45 hrs Dark Rose 13:20 hrs Scots Party 13:50 hrs Acrostar 14:20 hrs Tevez 15:00 hrs Snow Rose 15:35 hrs Princess Milo ENGLISH RACING TIPS Ascot 09:30 hrs Jersey Breeze 10:05 hrs Stravagante 10:40 hrs Limato 11:20 hrs Found 12:00 hrs Gold Trail 12:35 hrs Fabricate NEWMARKET 13:00 hrs Harry Bosch 13:30 hrs Open The Red 14:05 hrs Elronaq 14:35 hrs Flying Fantasy 15:05 hrs Buckstay 15:40 hrs Next

The participating teams are Upper Corentyne/Skeldon, Port Mourant, Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, Albion, Young Warriors/Rose Hall Centre, Police/Bermine, Blairmont/ West Berbice and Bush Lot/D’Edward. The Board said that the teams were selected in such a manner that all the top players in Berbice will be on show.

The BCB is appealing to all cricket lovers in Guyana and in the Diaspora to come on board to further enhance the game in the Ancient County. The Board is also calling on former Berbice players for assistance. Contact can be made on phone numbers 333-2375, 655-4140 or 623-6875.

Approach 16:10 hrs Star Fire GOODWOOD 13:15 hrs Banditry 13:45 hrs Debit 14:20 hrs Bella Nouf 14:”50 hrs William Of Orange 15:25 hrs Enlace 15:55 hrs Reflation IRISH RACING TIPS Limerick 12:40 hrs Jacobean 13:10 hrs Spinamiss 13:40 hrs Tom Dooley 14:15 hrs Lake George 14:45 hrs Loved 15:15 hrs House Limit 15:50 hrs Benkei AMERICAN RACING TIPS Belmont Race 1 Trophee Race 2 Colonel Juanita Race 3 Roman Fire Race 4 Fear Race 5 Upgrade Race 6 Liam’s Head

Berbice Cricket Board representative Trevor Ramdeholl (right) receives the sponsorship cheque from Priyta Rampersaud, manager of Sentinel Security Inc. Berbice Branch.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday June 19, 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 Wednesday’s quiz:

(1) Ian, Greg & Trevor Chappell (2) 108 times (Tests)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) The Chappells-Ian and Greg-were the first pair of brothers to score centuries in the same Test innings. Where and when?

(2) How many WI have taken over 300 wickets in Tests?

How many Australians have done so?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Windies cricketers must improve on the basics - Waugh

FORMER Australia batsman Mark Waugh says beleaguered West Indies must learn the art of improving on their fundamentals if they are to climb to the top of the ICC Test rankings again.

Wa u g h m a d e t h e statement after West Indies suffered a crushing two-nil loss to Australia in the series which ended in the Caribbean last weekend.

The number-tworanked Australians imposed a massive 277run win over West Indies to sweep the series 2-0.

“When I started playing for Australia, we

Mark Waugh were a pretty good side.

We weren’t probably as far down the ICC rankings as the current West Indies side. But in 1991, we were beaten easily by the West Indies,” said Waugh, who made his

Test debut in 1991.

“In 1995, we came back with a different attitude, more self-belief. We worked hard at practice, we worked as a team, we did the basics right, and, I think there is where the West Indies have got to start.”

The Australians dethroned the West Indies as world number one at Sabina Park in 1995.

Since then the regional side has not been close to that status.

“You’ve got to do the basics right, whether you are batting, bowling or fielding,” said Waugh, a member of the all-conquering Australian team of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

“Just simple things like running between the wickets, making the

most of every shot, running hard. Once you’ve got the basics, then you can compete, then you can grow in confidence.”

The 50-year-old Waugh, who retired in 2002 after scoring 20 centuries from 128 Tests at an average of 41.81, says getting the basics right fosters growth and confidence in players.

“Obviously, it’s very difficult for the West Indies at the moment, because they are lacking senior players,” the once-elegant stroke maker, who throughout his career played under the captaincy of his elder brother, Steve.

“They can probably compete against the lower sides; however, against the top sides, t h e y ’ re g o i n g t o b e found wanting.”

A fan could win US$1M at CPL A US$1M windfall is up for grabs for a lucky fan of the third edition of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) starting this weekend.

Organisers of the eagerly anticipated T20 tournament say the promotion titled ‘Catch A Million’ is an incentive for fans to attend the 33 matches from June 20 to July 26.

Fans who catch a six one-handed at a CPL match, will automatically win US$1000 and a chance to win a trip to Trinidad for the final.

The public will vote on the best catches online at CPL’s official Facebook page to decide who makes the trip to Trinidad.

If selected and the feat is repeated at the final, the lucky fan could win US$1M subject to terms and conditions.

“Tickets are already selling out fast as excitement ramps up ahead of CPL 2015, and there definitely won’t be many left when fans find out about the chance to win US$1M!” said Damien O’Donohoe, Chief Executive, Hero CPL. “Catch A Million is absolutely massive for the Caribbean, and we’re so thankful to Guardian Group for making this once-in-a-lifetime prize possible.”

Last year’s CPL produced 387 sixes over 30 matches with Chris Gayle and Lendl Simmons topping the charts, after blasting twenty-four maximums each.

Organisers say more fireworks are in store with the likes of Shahid Afridi and Kevin Pietersen joining the ranks this year.

“We’re thrilled to be supporting the CPL to introduce Catch A Million, and we wish all the fans the best of luck during the tournament,” said Larry Olton, Group vice-president – Integrated Marketing Communications, Guardian Group.

“The League is all about fun and excitement, and Catch A Million is going to take that excitement to a whole new level.”

Hero CPL 2015 starts with a repeat of last year’s final, as defending champions Barbados Tridents host Guyana Amazon Warriors at Kensington Oval on Saturday.

Sunburst champion Narayan Ramdhani for Pan Am Junior C’ships NATIONAL junior and senior Badminton champion Narayan Ramdhani was once again sponsored by the Continental Group of Companies through the popular local orange juice, Sunburst.

Narayan Ramdhani will be representing Guyana at the Pan American Junior Championships to be held in Tijunana, Mexico from August 1 to 10, in an effort to continue his upward rise in the sport.

He will also attend the Pan American Junior Academy high-powered training camp in Tijuana, Mexico thereafter for five days.

Also on his itinerary will be his attendance at the Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada from July 11 to 16, 2015, as well as the Caribbean Championships in the Dominican Republic from August 25 to 20.

Leading to the 2020 Olympics, Narayan will have to attend quite a few international tournaments to gain his world ranking points.

At the company’s Industrial Site office, Office Manager Ravi Brijnandan handed over the cheque to Ramdhani

in the presence of Company Secretary Percival Boyce Ramdhani will wear the Sunburst emblem and promote the product during the Pan American Junior championships.

Boyce, in brief remarks, said that his company was delighted to be supporting local talent yet again.

“The Management of Continental Group of Companies with its SUNBURST brand of Orange Juice and Fruit-flavoured drinks is pleased to be associated with Guyana’s young Champions in Sports on their way to international fame.

“We are pleased to lend our support to young Narayan Ramdhani in pursuit for further glory at the Pan American Championships. We wish him every success in bringing home gold for Guyana and Sunburst,” Boyce said.

The GBA expressed its delight at being able to realise the partnership of Sunburst and the encouraging interest they have shown in the sport which the association said it is hoping would be lasting in the continued development of the sport.

Ravi Brijnandan (right) hands over the cheque to Narayan Ramdhani (centre) in the presence of Company Secretary Percival Boyce.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Group 3 drivers gearing for glory at CMRC Trinidad leg THIS weekend’s Seaboard Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) at the Wallerfield raceway in Trinidad and Tobago is likely to see sparks flying, with several of the country’s top Group 3 drivers expected to be in the Mix. Chronicle Sport caught up with each of them who indicated his plans.

Afraz Allie banking on reliability factor: Afraz Allie says that he is banking on the reliability factor when he races this weekend in Trinidad and Tobago. Looking ahead to the action, Allie indicated that he is looking to podium. “It’s going to be hard, but not impossible. I’m also looking that in recent times with the exception of Jamaica (CMRC 2015 first leg) at the car’s reliability.

“My car is always reliable and I am banking on the reliability factor to come out on top,” Allie also indicated that he has done some upgrades and expects those to be factors as well. “With new upgrades we intend to give the bigger CC cars a tight run. We will rely on the power to weight ratio as higher CC cars have to run higher weights and with the limitation of tyres I

Prem’s Electrical, Mike’s Copy Centre, Tulshi Machine Shop and Cellphonix and represented Guyana earlier in the year at the first leg at Jamwest Raceway in Jamaica.

AFRAZ ALLIE expect to overcome them.”

Allie will pilot the number 88 Toyota Starlet sponsored by Mohamed’s Enterprise,

Boyce & Jefford Organisation hopes for upbeat Governmental approach

By Stephan Sookram CO-CHAIRMAN of the Boyce and Jefford Classic, Edison Jefford, says they are looking for an upbeat response from the Ministry of Education, the body that has the overall responsibility for Sport in relation to the development of athletics in Linden.

Speaking recently, the co-chairman indicated that they have seen the talent in the community and wish to garner support in developing the talent.

Jefford said that this is the reason behind their insistence on keeping this year’s edition of the Boyce and Jefford Classic in the community, instead of moving to the newly constructed Synthetic Athletics Track at Leonora.

“We hope that this Government recognises the vast athletic talent in this community, and make the necessary investment in sport. If we move our meet, we believe we will also move the efforts we are making to lobby Government in this direction,” he said.

According to Jefford, several attempts have been made to discuss certain developmental issues with the previous administration but were ignored, with letters dispatched annually to the Minis-

try of Culture, Youth and Sport but never being acknowledged.

“We hope to continue to shed the light on this facility, the Mackenzie Sport Club ground, so that government or any investor will see the need for a modern sports facility in this community.

Chairman Colin Boyce echoed the sentiments of Jefford indicating that they have no intentions of removing the championships, born and bred in Linden in 2010, to the new facility.

“In 2010, at our inaugural opening ceremony, we made a commitment to Mr (Mortimer) Mingo (then Regional Chairman) and the people of Linden that we will not move this meet from Linden and it is only right that we renew that commitment,” Boyce said.

“This meet was born in Linden and it will remain in Linden.” Boyce was vocal about remaining true to the roots of tournaments and says that his organisation will be among those that remain intact.

The sixth edition of Guyana’s only international track and field meet has been set for August 15-16 at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground with athletes from Trinidad, the USA, Suriname, Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Mohammed has nothing to be worried about: Rameez Mohammed says that he is unfazed by the competition in Trinidad and Tobago for this weekend’s race meet. The Group 3 driver indicated that his car is up to scratch and is expected to be a force to be reckoned with. “I don’t think we have anything to worry about.

“I’ve switched my car from the Starlet to a Levin and that is much faster now.

We tested prior to loading and shipping and we are very happy with the results.”

He indicated too that he had a look at the Trinidad layout last year as a spectator and has a view as to what is expected “I was there last year, I think the car is going to do pretty good. With the tyres that we have, it would grip better on the new surface.”

He will be driving the B.M Soat Auto Sales-, Prem’s Electrical-, Truck Mas-

ters-sponsored White and Blue Toyota Levin.

He also toured Jamaica earlier this year.

Deodass looking for good debut performance Chronicle Sport also spoke to CMRC debutant Motilall Deodass, who explained that he is looking at exposure on the regional circuit.

“I entered this year at the CMRC level because I want to look at getting into the regional circuit and letting the Caribbean know that there are very quick Starlets in Guyana.” He also told Chronicle Sport that this being his and the car’s maiden journey outside Guyana, he is looking to score valuable points at the regional level that will ultimately go to the CMRC overall point standings.

He drives the #56 Motor Trend Auto Spares and Repairs, Rohan Auto Spares/Red Toyota Starlet.

This weekend’s race at the Wallerfield will take place on a repaved circuit, commencing tomorrow with free practice, qualification on Saturday and Race day on Sunday.

Young Warriors congratulate Shimron Hetmyer THE executives and players of the Cumberland, East Canje-based Young Warriors Cricket Club, have extended congratulations to their bright and upcoming cricketing star in Shimron Hetmyer.

In a release, the club congratulated the 18-year-old opening batsman on his selection in the Amazon Warriors playing squad for the upcoming Hero Caribbean Premier League.

The club said that this recent selection is another step for Shimron as he marches on, soon to wear West Indies colours.

The club which was resuscitated just over 12 years ago has produced many junior and senior national players and even West Indies junior cricketers but never a West Indies senior player.

The release stated that they are confident that Shimron will be the first one to represent West Indies senior team.

Shimron’s talent was spotted by coach Hubern Evans, himself a former national cricketer, since he was just 7 years old and from then he was invited to join the club. Since then, he has never looked back and has made significant and rapid progress despite his age. He has always performed above his age group and impressed all who see him play cricket.

SHIMRON HETMYER The club hopes that Shimron’s achievement will inspire others in the Canje area. The club invites cricketers of all ages to join, free of cost.

Contact can be made with coach Evans on 624-3275, coach Kwesi Maltay on 695-2007 and manager Sahadeo Singh on 617-1103.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

Deonarine, Edwards and Hinds head PCL draft list

INTERNATIONAL players Narsingh Deonarine, Kirk Edwards and Ryan Hinds headed the list of imported draft choices when the Player Draft of the WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL) took place in Bridgetown, Barbados, yesterday.

Deonarine, Edwards and Hinds were the three eye-catching picks, as selectors from each of the six franchises were required for the second edition of the Draft to pick a minimum of two players from outside of their home territory, unlike the inaugural edition last year.

Deonarine, the Guyanese left-handed batsman, who also bowls off-spin, is expected to be a big boost for the Leeward Islands Hurricanes who finished last in the six-team Regional 4-Day Tournament and failed to reach the knockout stages of the NAGICO Super50 Tournament.

“The Draft went extremely well for us,” said new Hurricanes head coach Reginald Benjamin. “There are always

going to be a few surprises at a player draft and we were fortunate to have been able to secure Narsingh Deonarine.

“He was the best available batsman in the Draft and his off-spin bowling will be a plus, so we are now looking forward to him helping us to become a successful franchise in the coming season.”

Edwards, the Barbadian batsman who distinguished himself with a Test hundred on debut, has been given a chance to revive his stalled international career with the Jamaica Franchise.

Ryan Hinds, a long-standing left-handed all-rounder from Barbados, will add greater depth to the batting of the Guyana Jaguars and his left-arm spin bowling will make this part of their attack even more potent along with the West Indies duo of leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo and another left-arm spinner, Veerasammy Permaul.

Hinds will be one of three Barbadians that will be lining up for the defending Regional

4-Day champions next season. Left-handed all-rounder Raymon Reifer was selected in the Draft last year and was

RYAN HINDS placed on the Jaguars’ protected list for the coming season, and fast-medium bowler Javon Searles will join him

and Hinds in Georgetown.

“Raymon was very effective for us last year and we are hoping that Ryan and Javon will continue this trend,” said Jaguars chairman of selectors Rayon Griffith.

“I think Ryan will bring real value to our side. It is a huge loss for us not having Narsingh in our line-up and to play the role that he has for a long time as batting all-rounder, so we were fortunate to grab Ryan, a season campaigner in domestic cricket, and we hope he will help to cushion the blow from the loss of Narsingh.”

The other eight players selected from outside of their home territory were: Darren Cruickshank (Hurricanes), Nkrumah Bonner and Kyle Hope (Trinidad & Tobago Red Force); Trevon Griffith (Jamaica Franchise); Kyle Mayers and Kevin McClean (Windward Islands Volcanoes); and Preston McSween and Hayden Walsh Jr (Barbados Pride).

Final franchise squad lists: BARBADOS PRIDE:

Carlos Brathwaite, Shamarh Brooks, Jonathan Carter, Roston Chase, Kyle Corbin, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich, Ashley Nurse, Shai Hope, Jomel Warrican; Justin Greaves, Preston McSween (Windward Islands), Omar Phillips, Kevin Stoute, Hayden Walsh Jr (Leeward Islands) GUYANA FRANCHISE: Christopher Barnwell, Ronsford Beaton, Devendra Bishoo, Anthony Bramble, Rajendra Chandrika, Assad Fudadin, Shimron Hetmyer, Veerasammy Permaul, Raymon Reifer, Vishaul Singh; Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Ryan Hinds (Barbados), Keon Joseph, Javon Searles (Barbados), Paul Wintz JAMAICA FRANCHISE: Dave Bernard Jr, John Campbell, Sheldon Cottrell, Jason Dawes, Nicholson Gordon, Damion Jacobs, Brandon King, Tamar Lambert, Nikita Miller, Marquino Mindley; Carlton Baugh Jr, Kirk Edwards (Barbados), Trevon Griffith (Guyana), Paul Palmer, Shacaya Thomas

LEEWARD ISLANDS FRANCHISE: Quinton Boatswain, Kacey Carty, Rahkeem Cornwall, Alzarri Joseph, Steve Liburd, Orlando Peters, Sherwin Peters, Jacques Taylor, Devon Thomas, Gavin Tonge; Nelson Bolan, Darren Cruickshank (Trinidad & Tobago), Narsingh Deonarine (Guyana), Colin Hamer, Shane Jeffers TRINIDAD & TOBAGO RED FORCE: Yannick Cariah, Kevon Cooper, Rayad Emrit, Steven Katwaroo, Imran Khan, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Kjorn Ottley, Ravi Rampaul, Marlon Richards; Nkrumah Bonner (Jamaica), Kyle Hope, Akeal Hosein, Yannick Ottley, Jeremy Solozano WINDWARD ISLANDS FRANCHISE: Sunil Ambris, Alston Bobb, Johnson Charles, Andre Fletcher, Mervin Matthew, Kenroy Peters, Liam Sebastien, Shane Shillingford, Devon Smith, Tyrone Theophile; Delorn Johnson, Keddy Lesporis, Kyle Mayers (Barbados), Kevin McClean (Barbados), Dalton Polius.

Tricia Fiedtkou nominated Female national ball player says only for PAHF Athletes Committee stayed in the BVI to support men’s team … GHB president cites longstanding service and dedication

GUYANESE hockey player Tricia Fiedtkou has been nominated among three female athletes to sit on the Pan American Hockey Federation’s (PAHF) Athletes Committee.

The Guyanese will compete against Keli Smith-Puzo, of the United States of America as well Macarena Rodrigues of Argentina.

The honorary secretary of the board joined hockey on the administrative panel in 2008.

According to president of the Guyana Hockey Board, Philip Fernandes, she has been outstanding in the discipline. “She has been a long-time hockey player and administrator. She has not only represented Guyana but has captained the Guyana team and now she holds the important position of honorary secretary.”

He continued by saying that Fiedtkou is one of the key people driving the sport of hockey today. “We felt that Tricia would be an excellent person to sit on the panel and it is good to have a Guyanese present to show Guyana’s commitment and keep Guyana on the minds of the PAHF.” In the male arena Kwandwane Browne of Trinidad & Tobago and Yoandy Blanco of Cuba have been nominated.

The deadline for sending nominations for the PAHF election expired on June 10, 2015. Those five candidates have valid candidatures.

According to the Elections Procedure, voters are athletes that competed for their senior national team at the most recent Pan American level event (Pan American Games, Pan American Cup, Pan American

Challenge, Central American and Caribbean Games, South American Games).

The Board of Directors will appoint Scott Sandison (Canada) to serve as Chair of the committee until 2017.

The PAHF will send communications to all National Associations to collect e-mail addresses of each voter for the registration. When this process is completed, online voting will be available.

There will also be physical voting in Toronto during the Pan American Games. More information and voters’ lists will be available shortly.

KEAN Andrews, the national basketball player who did not return to Guyana with the female team, said that she only stayed in Tortola to support the male team who are competing at the Caribbean Basketball

KEAN ANDREWS

TRICIA FIEDTKOU

Confederation Championship (CBC).

The centre was a part of the female team that failed to win a game at the Championships which ran from June 8 to 12 in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) but when she failed to return to Guyana the following day, speculations were raised.

President of the Guyana Basketball Federation (GABF) Nigel Hinds told Chronicle Sport that he was ignorant of the player remaining in the BVI, though he speculated that she might have done so to support the men’s team.

However, Andrews via Facebook had contacted the Guyana Chronicle to have her views heard after it was reported in another section of the media that she did not return with the squad.

“I really don’t know the reason for Mr Nigel Hinds blowing this thing out of proportion like this. Yes, I did decide to stay in the BVI, simply to watch and support our male team. I paid and extended my visa and bought a return ticket to Guyana with the permission of the BVI Immigration authorities,” Andrews said.

A contacted Hinds told this newspaper that the player had broken the team’s protocol which simply states that they all must return together.

“They were supposed to return as a team; we never gave permission to stay on.

She never showed up when it was time to leave,” said the GABF boss.

The female national player made it clear that she has no intention of staying past the male tournament which finishes on Sunday (June 21).

“I have no intentions on living here or staying past the male games; I have obligations in Guyana. If I had known they would have blown it out of proportion I would have kept my money and come home. If it wasn’t for supporting the games and just for that immigration would not have granted me permission, I could even give the number of the immigration officer to confirm.”

Hinds made it clear that he has no issues with anyone wanting to stay and supporting the men’s team but once requirements are met with the team and immigration, since the GABF would not be responsible for any mishaps.

The GABF president said that once Andrews returns, “We’ll have some kind of sanction but after reasoning to understand what it is exactly. She just didn’t show up.

Manager Kirk Fraser said she did not give in her uniform, the whole thing was just disrespectful.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday June 19, 2015

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GFF sends protest to FIFA ... SVG player had British passport

By Stephan Sookram THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) confirmed that they have launched a protest to FIFA after realising that St Vincent and Grenadines fielded a player who was not the holder of a passport from the Island.

The Golden Jaguars drew 4-4 with the ‘Vincy Heat’ at the Guyana National Stadium last Sunday but were knocked out of the 2018 World Cup Qualifier tournament since the visitors had the superior goal difference, thanks to the ‘away goals’ rule.

However, after the loss, Chronicle Sport was made to understand that the GFF had gotten a tip that Garvin James, the St Vincent and the Grenadines striker, was used though he was not a holder of a Vincentian passport which is a clear violation of FIFA’s laws that govern a player’s eligibility to represent his country.

RAWLE TONEY

James was born in England and plays for the Flackwell Heath Football Club.

“Yes, we did write to FIFA, telling them of our findings and protested the result. As far as I’m aware, we haven’t received a response as yet,” said the GFF’s Marketing and Communications director Rawle Toney when contacted yesterday, after this newspaper failed to reach Normalisation Committee Chairman Clinton Urling for a comment on the issue.

Toney, when asked what prompted the GFF to lodge a protest, noted, “Well the GFF believes that it has a case based on the rules of FIFA which clearly state that the only identification accepted as a proof of citizenship is a player’s passport. Four of our players had to miss the first leg of the qualifier because they were not citizens of Guyana and only were al-

lowed to play when that happened and their passports were granted.”

FIFA regulations for the 2018 programme say that only passports are “valid proof of a player’s identity and nationality.” Each player’s passport must be shown to FIFA’s match delegate the day before kickoff.

The new rule states: “Identity cards or other supporting official documents shall not be accepted” and history has shown that seven different African teams fielded ineligible players in qualifying group matches for the 2014 World Cup, forcing FIFA to award 3-0 wins to their opponents.

If GFF is successful, the result will be reversed, a fine will be imposed on the St Vincent Football Association and the Golden Jaguars will be awarded the victory with a 3-0 scoreline and would advance to the next round of qualification.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

GFF sends protest to FIFA

Tricia Fiedtkou nominated for PAHF Athletes Committee … GHB president cites longstanding service and dedication See story on page 30

See story on page 31

... SVG player had British passport

Windies cricketers must improve on the basics - Waugh See story on page 28

TRICIA FIEDTKOU

MARK WAUGH

Group 3 drivers gearing for glory at CMRC Trinidad leg See story on page 29

MOTILALL DEODASS

RAMEEZ MOHAMMED

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Young Warriors congratulate Shimron Hetmyer

See story on page 29

Female national ball player says only stayed in the BVI to support men’s team See story on page 30 FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2015