2015 7 17

GUYANA No. 104253

FRIDAY JULY 17, 2015

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

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Relief to be given flood-affected farmers – Gov’t officials will today visit most affected areas Page

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New State Boards to be announced weekend 11

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Vendors plying their wares at the Bourda Green yesterday

GWI urges caution during excessive rainfall, flooding 10 Page

Guyana experiences earth tremor

– originated from earthquake off Barbados

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GRA staff out on the streets

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Guyana experiences earth tremor —originated from earthquake off Barbados

GRA staff out on the streets yesterday after experiencing the tremor (Photos

by Delano Williams)

GUYANA experienced a light earth tremor around 11:20hrs yesterday.

The tremor awakened residents from several parts of Georgetown, leaving questionable facial expressions as the country was also faced with an inundation.

The tremor lasted for about five seconds and brought business to a brief halt. After the incident, many took to social media to say how they felt about the incident.

Persons who were travelling in floodwaters said the tremor caused them to pause, assuming an earthquake was forthcoming. Many also expressed the same view, where some assumed it was just their “imagination”.

The staff of the Guyana See page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

Relief to be given flood-affected farmers – Gov’t officials will today visit most affected areas

By Tajeram Mohabir MINISTER of State, Mr Joseph Harmon has said that farmers affected by the flooding caused by heavy downpour late Wednesday night and yesterday morning will receive relief from the Government.

Minister Harmon gave the assurance yesterday evening following the conclusion of a Cabinet meeting held at the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), next to Camp Ayangana, Georgetown.

“Farmers are really the bread basket of the nation, and we have to pay careful attention to our farmers,” the Minister of State said, pointing out that from an air reconnaissance conducted yesterday, the Administration has a fair sense of the extent of the floods and where it needs to go.

Today, he said, Government technical officers will be deployed to critically affected areas to meet with farmers, listen to their concerns, and see what sort of help can be dispensed.

From reports, the most affected areas are Canals Number One and Two on the West Bank Demerara; and in the areas of Boerasirie, Uitvlugt, Leonora and Naamryck in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

In Region 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), the Capital City of Georgetown has been flooded, and areas between Ogle and Buxton on the East Coast Demerara have been mostly affected.

Minister of State, Mr Joseph Harmon speaking to Guyana Chronicle reporters Derwayne Wills and Tajeram Mohabir following Cabinet meeting yesterday

“We will also be paying attention to the level of water in the conservancy, and the integrity of the dams. We are working in areas that have been identified, but that is not to say that there are other areas that would not receive our attention,” Minister Harmon told the Guyana Chronicle.

MOST AFFECTED But for now, he said, focus will be placed on addressing the needs of farmers most affected and in need of urgent attention.

The Minister of State also pointed out that the Govern-

ment will have to make a proper assessment of what is needed before determining what form of assistance will be given to farmers.

“We are a resilient people, and they (farmers) do not all just look for hand-outs. And so, what we will do is that we will work with these farmers to see how best we can deal with their situation. We would not want to say now this is what we will do and wouldn’t do, but we will have to work with them to see how best we can alleviate that problem which they have,” Harmon said.

Prime Minister, Mr Moses Nagamootoo, who also spoke with the Guyana Chronicle, said the heavy flooding experienced could have been less, had the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C) Administration effected repairs to kokers and proper service to pumps.

The flooding, he contended, is as a result of poor management by the PPP, and an

accumulation of their neglect over the years.

RELIEF But, the Prime Minister said, the Government is closely monitoring the situation, and relief will be given to those most affected.

“There is hope that we can take care of the basic needs of people. Where we have people who need shelter, we will look

after that. Where there is need for emergency food supplies, we will look after that. We will make sure people have water, and, above all, we will make sure that farmers have some relief in terms of their flooded out farms. We will try to address all these things,” he told the Guyana Chronicle.

Minister of Agriculture, Mr Noel Holder said Regions 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and 3 have been mostly affected by the flooding, with some areas in Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice) also being affected.

He also pointed out that from information received thus far, the losses suffered by farmers are not humongous.

Guyana in the past 24 hours has experienced heavy rainfall, reaching record-breaking levels. From all reports, some eight inches of rainfall has been recorded. This is way above the level the country’s drainage system can handle.

Our centuries-old drainage system, built by the Dutch, has the capacity to drain 2.5 inches of rainfall in a period of 24 hours.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

During city walkabout, mayor says…

‘We cannot afford regime of lawlessness to continue’ --it’s inconsistent with efforts to restore Georgetown

By Ravin Singh IN light of the torrential rains which submerged sections of the city of Georgetown, Mayor Hamilton Green during a walkabout of the city yesterday, was keen to note that while efforts are being made to restore the Garden City, lawlessness that are incon-

sistent with these efforts will not be condoned.

Following a late start, the Mayor and a delegation from City Hall, including representatives from the Constabulary, Solid Waste Department and Engineer’s Department, made their way around the city to various locations where several concerns were raised by

The mayor and other Heads-of-Department inspecting a clogged drain on Mandela Avenue yesterday members of the public.

The intended purpose of the visit was to examine the number of complaints that have been directed to City Hall over the last few weeks. This was according to Green, who further explained that since there had been a change in Government, people expect positive action to be taken by City

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Hall. As such, to highlight these improprieties which he said must be addressed, the administrative staff were taken into the field.

With this method being adopted, a stern Green added that after this visit, he will not be in receipt of any “facile excuse” from any of the staff who are expected See Centre

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Raul Castro calls for new Cuba-US relationship (BBC News) THE Cuban President, Raul Castro, has said his country must establish a new kind of relationship with the United States.

In a speech to the National Assembly, Mr Castro said that, for normal relations to resume, a US embargo on Cuba would have to be lifted.

He also called for the US naval base at Guantanamo Bay to be returned to Cuba.

On Monday both countries are set to re-establish diplomatic ties for the first time since 1959.

“We are talking about forging a new kind of relationship between both states, different from our entire common history,” President Castro told the Cuban National Assembly.

He acknowledged President Obama’s efforts to try to get a debate going on the embargo despite the fact that it was up to the US Congress to vote on the matter.

President Castro said Cuba wanted to break with the past and peacefully coexist with the United States US officials have said several times that Guantanamo Bay is not on the agenda for discussion with Cuba.

The US and Cuba began secret negotiations on restoring ties two years ago.

This led to a historic announcement on 17 December last year where President Castro and President Obama said they had swapped prisoners and would seek to normalise relations.

On Monday both countries are set to reopen embassies in each other’s capitals as a first formal step towards re-establishing relations.

Bunting outlines three-pronged approach to tackle murder spike (Jamaica Gleaner) AS THE crime wave continues to rock the country, with more than 600 murders since the start of the year, National Security Minister Peter Bunting has announced new policy measures aimed at strategically reducing the galloping murder rate.

In a statement to Parliament Wednesday, Bunting said that the Government was moving to make a substantial improvement in the operational mobility of the security forces over the next few months.

He told his parliamentary colleagues that 60 motor bikes had already been purchased for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and would be delivered by the end of this month.

He said orders for 45 patrol cars, 27 pickups, four trucks, and three buses are in the final stages of the procurement process.

“This will be in addition to 22 vehicles already acquired in April 2015,” he added.

In addition, the minister said the delivery of new protected

mobility vehicles (PMVs) for the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) had started.

Nine PMVs are scheduled for delivery this year.

Bunting said the acquisition of these rugged all-terrain vehicles would assist the JDF both in combating heavily armed criminal gangs as well as in disaster relief situations.

At the same time, Bunting revealed that a team from his ministry, including personnel from the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA), the police force, and the Audit Department, had completed an audit of private firearms and ammunition stored in every police division across the country.

“On completion of each divisional audit, the firearms and ammunition were transferred to the FLA for safekeeping and ultimately for destruction,” Bunting said.

According to Bunting, the exercise involved more than 5,000 firearms and tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition. He said the exercise had eliminated the possibility of leakage of these firearms into the illicit gun trade.

Five quakes off Barbados, some felt in Trinidad (Trinidad Express) THE Seismic Research Unit (SRC)

has recorded five earthquakes off the North East coast of Barbados in a five hour period yesterday, the latest happening at 12.23p.m.

University of the West Indies (UWI) semiologist Dr. Joan Latchman. Latchman said the SRC recorded a quake at 11:36 a.m. Thursday with a 5.3 magnitude and location of latitude 13.90 North, longitude of 58.63 West and a depth ten kilometres.

At 11:29 a.m. a magnitude of 4.1 with location of latitude 13.86 North, longitude of 58.99 West and a depth ten kilometres.

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake at 11:16 a.m. with its location of latitude 13.96 North, longitude 58.87 West and depth of ten kilometres.

The earliest reported earthquake was at 7:01 a.m.

Thursday morning of a 5.7 magnitude. Its recorded location was latitude 13.92 North, longitude 58.82 West with a depth of ten kilometres.

These tremors were felt in Barbados, St. Lucia and Martinique. However, Latchman said reports from citizens across Trinidad and Tobago feeling the earthquake have been confirmed.

UWI Seismic Research Centre in St. Augustine is the facility responsible for monitoring seismic activity in the Eastern Caribbean. According to Latchman the SRC has located about 130 events within the area 9.5N-11.5N and 58W-63W since the start of 2015 off the Trinidad area.

This information was dated April 29.

As of May SRC has recorded in the Barbados zone 11 earthquakes, which Latchman said has to update.

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Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Guyana

Second baptism with water

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HE Granger Government is experiencing its second baptism with water in just two months of taking office after the May 11, 2015 democratic polls.

The first time attracted an unprecedented “clean up” campaign that witnessed citizens voluntarily getting their hands muddied and braving clogged-up trenches and drains to help release flood waters.

Also, the response of the new Government was swift, notably from efforts led by Minister David Patterson in urban areas, and Minister Noel Holder in mainly rural agricultural zones. The mouths of rivers were dredged, canals de-silted and kokers either repaired or re-activated.

Farmers from Mahaica to Lima were rescued from certain disaster. Further, for the first time, even before an official handing-over ceremony, the Hope Canal was activated to help release water from the East Demerara Water Conservancy, which was close to the high-water mark and could have overtopped.

In most of those efforts, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) played a useful role, as

it ought to have done in the first place, to avert flooding.

Guyana breathed a sigh of relief.

But then came the second and current baptism, which resulted from heavy, unprecedented, and incessant rainfall.

The dark clouds had gathered whilst President Granger was at a 70th birthday celebration, organised by friends at Camp Ayanganna.

When those clouds came down in torrential rains, not only was cricket washed away, but all villages in low-lying areas on the Guyana coastland experienced flash floods.

President Granger summoned a Cabinet caucus at 04:00hrs, and another at 08:00hrs yesterday before leaving for Brazil. After those consultations, the Civil Defence Commission activated its National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) that would coordinate efforts to deal with the serious consequences of the flood situation.

By 18:00hrs, the Acting President, Mr Moses Nagamootoo was briefed on the measures being taken, which included health, security, electricity, water, traffic and weather advisories, together with concrete efforts on the ground to drain the flood waters.

There is no doubt that citizens would suffer severe

losses of all types, and that the flash floods would cause hardships. To ask citizens who have, for years, been anguished by neglect of basic services, including proper drainage, to bear yet another episode of frustration might be asking too much. But there is hardly a choice in this present situation, which could challenge all of us to bring out the best in us as we appeal to citizens to throw in their support for the continuing clean-up campaign, and for our business sector to add their machinery to the effort.

The former regime must not be tempted to make politics of our people’s misery, and do the predictable of laying blame on others. For over two decades, the PPP-led Administration had the opportunity of fixing our drainage problem, but threw billions down the drain, without a solution in sight. The least it could do now is to stay silent and observe on the sideline what it takes to lead in dire times like this.

As the flood waters in our various communities recede, and we assess our losses, we must all hope for lasting solutions that could inspire us to say, “Never again!”

Minister Hastings reports...

Golden Grove/Haslington market to be upgraded

MINISTER Dawn Hastings-Williams recently held consultations with officials from the Region 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), Golden Grove/Haslington Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and market vendors at Golden Grove to ascertain needed improvements in the operations of the market and solid waste management.

Minister Hastings, who has portfolio responsibility within the Ministry of Communities for Regional Development, noted during a recent visit to the communities at reference that there is a crying need for improvements in the operations of the market, as well as the solid waste management, and has indicated that “Help its on its way.”

The developmental works will be funded under a Guyana/ India/Brazil/South Africa (IBSA) South-South Cooperation US$1M Guyana Solid Waste Management Improvement Programme. The role of the UNDP is to assist the Ministry with the implementation of the project.

“The consultations, which began at the NDC boardroom, culminated following a tour of the market,” Minister Hastings said, adding: “The tour allowed officials of the Ministry and UNDP a first-hand look at the needs of vendors.”

The two main challenges raised by vendors that could be corrected through this project, she said, are the absence of a sanitary block and proper drainage.

The usage of the Golden Grove/ Haslington NDC mar-

Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams during a familiarisation tour of the Golden Grove Market ket tarmac was also discussed at the meeting. “While some vendors are ready to occupy the structure, others are reluctant to move from the existing market,” the Minister said.

Minister Hastings has pledged the Ministry’s sup-

port for those projects vendors deem important. She stressed that markets with proper solid waste management systems are necessary for the functioning of communities and healthy living on the whole.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

HINDS’SIGHT

It is criminal not to have students pursuing a full degree in History at the University of Guyana

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By Dr. David Hinds

HE University of Guyana has been in the news a lot over the last few years. Industrial strikes by faculty and staff; demonstrations by students; and public quarrels between the Vice-Chancellors and their charges have been the most publicised ones.

There is a lot that is wrong about UG. And what is wrong about the university is a reflection of what is wrong about Guyana. The people who run UG are, for the most part, Guyanese. The lecturers and students are mostly Guyanese.

Dissecting the problems at the university would take several columns. Many commentators, politicians and education specialists have articulated what they see as the root causes of the problem. Here are my two cents. I am arguing that UG’s problems are not native to that institution; it is part of the problem with education in Guyana.

Further, I am contending that Guyana’s adversarial politics, replete with its bad-mindedness, has been the other major culprit. The combination of an overall poor education system and process, coupled with nasty Party politics, has been the brew that has poisoned UG. The strangulation and politicisation of the university by the previous administration is unpardonable. The packing

of the University Council with partisan officers was hardly veiled. In addition, the naming of hardcore PPP members as Pro-Chancellors gave the image of a Party school rather than a serious institution of learning and training. This control of the levers of power enabled the Ruling Party to carry out its vendetta against those faculty and staff it deemed hostile to it.

In the end, the university was reduced to a sad place where moulding minds to aid in national development is not a priority. It is near impossible to discharge a quality education in such an environment. All the other academic woes one hears about are investable in such circumstances. The university has become the last link in an educational disaster that begins at the lower end of the education spectrum.

Now, we have learned that there are no students enrolled in the Bachelor’s degree in History programme at the University. Hence, the programme was suspended. A dean at the university gave a convoluted explanation of the problem to the Guyana Chronicle. What he did not say is the truth, which has been verified by those who work there: Over the last few years, enrollment of majors in history has declined to almost zero.

This sad state of affairs is not a bad reflection of those who teach in the History Department. Rather, it is an indictment of those who run the university. But having said that,

David Hinds it is a reflection of a historical culture that has developed in the larger society. Every day you hear responsible people, some in high places, repeating the nonsense that we must not look back, and let the past be the past. When our children and young people hear that kind of thing, they obviously develop a lack of appreciation for history as a discipline of social enquiry. Why are we then surprised, if we are at all, that there are no history majors at UG? You reap what you sow; what may be good for political consumption and feel-good chat is bad for the intellectual nourishment.

Suffice to say that it is criminal for a university in Guyana not to have students pursuing a major in history in a full degree programme. As a post-plantation society shaped by the some of the profound global developments of the last six centuries, the teaching and learning of history as part of the education and socialisation processes should be premium. We cannot continue like this.

(Dr. David Hinds, a political activist and commentator, is an Associate Professor of Political Science and Caribbean and African Diaspora Studies at Arizona State University.

More of his writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.com. Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com)

Guyana experiences earth...

From page 2 Revenue Authority (GRA) rushed to the streets in panic, after the tremor shook the building. Many who were in tall buildings also rushed to the street, assuming the buildings were collapsing.

The tremor is said to have originated from a second earthquake of 6.4 magnitude, some 125 kilometres in the ocean north-east of Barbados at approximately 11:16hrs.

The first earthquake however, was of 5.7 magnitude and occurred around 07:00hrs at the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre. The earthquake was then felt in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Venezuela, South Trinidad and Guyana.

The earthquake is solely

blamed for causing tremors in these Caribbean territories, most of which measured a 6.5 magnitude.

Persons living on nearby Martinique also indicated that they felt the tremor.

Fortunately, there were no reports of damage in any of these countries.

Magnitude is used to describe the energy generated by an earthquake and is determined by the area that ruptures during the earthquake, the amount of displacement during the earthquake and the stiffness of the rocks that breaks.

Guyana has experienced several tremors before. November 2007, however, recorded two powerful tremors from a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean Sea near Martinique.

Buildings experienced loud shakes as persons panicked.

Septic tank murder accused jailed for 117 years

By George Barclay JUSTICE Roxanne George, presiding at the Demerara Assizes, on Wednesday sentenced the two remaining accused in the 2007 septic tank murder case to a total 0f 117 years.

The two accused,Anthony Hope,called “Papa”, and Ralph Tyndall, called “Nick”, were accused of murdering Colleen Forrester of William Street,Campbellville.

The Judge‘s sentence followed presentation of probation reports by senior probation officers, and pleas for mitigation by Defence Counsel, Mr. Madan Kissoon for Tyndall, and Mr Meilvern Duke for Hope, the master-mind.

The third man who had been charged, Kevin O’Neil, was earlier freed on a no-

case submission by his counsel, Mr. George Thomas.

Thomas’ submission was based on the ground that O’Neil was more of a spectator than a participant; the judge had agreed with the submission.

According to the evidence, the two accused had beaten Forrester to death, and later wrapped her body with sheets, and placed same in a septic tank at 55 William Street, Campbellville.

Forrester, who was a caretaker for the home, was also the aunt of Number One accused, “Papa”.

The accused were charged with murder after the discovery of Forrester’s body, and had pleaded not guilty, placing the blame on each other.

The courtroom was jampacked Wednesday afternoon as curious spectators,

Ralph Tyndall, called “Nick”, and Anthony Hope, called “Papa” being escorted to the courtroom for sentencing friends of the deceased and the accused had come to hear the sentence. Justice George had earlier stated that she had not yet made up her mind as to whether she would impose the death penalty or inflict a lengthy prison sentence.

Defence Counsel Mr. Madan Kissoon, whose client Mr. Ralph Tyndall was given the lighter sentence of 55 years, indicated that he would appeal.

Counsel for Hope did not say anything.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Regions 5,6 spared widespread flooding

THE regional administrations of Region 5 (Mahaica/ Berbice) and Region 6 (East Berbice /Corentyne) late yesterday reported little or no flooding from rainfall in their areas.

Regional Information Officer of Region 5, Sandie Ross-Hendricks disclosed that the only area in the region where some flooding was reported was in the Union /Naarstigheid Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), where six villages reported areas being under

water.

The villages affected were D’Edward, Hopetown, Bush Lot, Golden Grove, Lovely Lass, #28, #29 and Union.

This water had, however, receded to a great extent by late yesterday afternoon.

In Region 6, Regional Chairman David Armogan disclosed that there was some flooding at Manchester, Corentyne, and in some areas of New Amsterdam.

These waters, however, receded after the sluices were

opened.

Armogan said that the recent clean-up of the drainage infrastructure was a main factor in the observed efficiency of the system under stress from the heavy rainfall.

Up to late yesterday afternoon,the lower East Coast Demerara, which experienced close to four inches of rainfall Wednesday afternoon, remained under floodwaters.

Persons reported damage to furniture, and loss of poultry and other livestock.

The road to Bel Air Springs yesterday afternoon

Housewife Bibi Bissoondial of Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, holds one of several chickens which died in the floodwaters which persisted up to late yesterday afternoon

Water in her bedroom: The home of Ms Shameena Shakeer at Le Resouvenir yesterday afternoon (Photos by Delano Williams)

Gov’t musters emergency relief for ‘second baptism in water’ – package to include food, water, other necessities

By Derwayne Wills AN historic first meeting of the Cabinet, held yesterday at the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Thomas Lands,will see the government rolling out a comprehensive national relief effort in the wake of the abrupt flooding across Guyana’s low-lying coastal areas over the past three days.

“There are some areas that have been identified, that require help insofar as evacuating persons from the flooded areas, and to

Public Infrastructure Minister, Mr David Patterson in interview

Acting President, Mr Moses Nagamootoo entertaining questions from the Chronicle’s Tajeram Mohabir, and Derwayne Wills

put them into safe shelters,” Minister of State Joseph Harmon told the Guyana Chronicle last evening immediately after the Cabinet meeting.

The minister said resi-

dents of affected areas will be provided with food supplies, water supplies, and other necessities as well as mattresses and camp cots among other relief items.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

Residents, businesses voice concern over extensive flooding – caused by incessant rain over last two days

MANY residents and businesses around Georgetown and its environs yesterday voiced their concern about widespread flooding due to extensive, torrential rainfall.

The Guyana Chronicle visited some of the affected areas and interacted with residents from the Albouystown area in particular, many of whom voiced their concerns about the high level of floodwater.

Guyana has recently ex-

perienced an intense period of rainfall, with Georgetown being drenched with approximately 70mm of rain.

The East Coast of Demerara received approximately 100mm, while Leonora, in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) received around 225mm. This resulted in flooding in most low-lying areas.

One resident noted that she lives in “a downstairs of a building,” and the water level

is some two inches away from touching her bed.

Another told the Guyana Chronicle that the residents of Sussex Street took action by blocking some of the adjoining streets, so that vehicles could not traverse the area. He noted that “when the vehicles drive through the street, it causes waves, and a lot of water is entering the low houses.”

CLOSED FOR BUSINESS Most city businesses were Residents block streets in Albouystown to help keep the water out of their homes

At the Guyana Chronicle yesterday

A senior citizen making her way along Middle Street (Photos by Delano Williams)

Sandbags are very effective in keeping the water at bay at the Courts Main Street Store

Around ‘Cuffy Square’

closed, due to the flood, and while some businesses remained open, staff were seen “bailing water” from these entities. Courts Guyana Public Relations Officer, Roberta Ferguson, told of their experience this time around. “Due to previous experiences of flooding, we have made certain preparations to kind of keep the water level in the store at a minimum, but this time, it is high, and water started to come into the building,” she said.

It was also explained that the water was higher than usual and as such, the staff is keeping a ‘vigilant eye’ to

make sure the company does not incur further losses.

According to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), flooding has been reported in Regions 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam); 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 4 (Demerara-Mahaica); and 5 (Mahaica-Berbice).

The current water level in the East Demerara Water Conservancy is reported as 57.60 Georgetown Datum (GD) at Lama; 58.15 GD at Flagstaff; and 55.75 GD at Land of Canaan; with 54.0 GD in the

Mahaica Creek.

The critical level of the conservancy stands at 58.50 GD, and there have been no instances of overtopping or breaches. However, water is being released at Land of Canaan and into the Hope Canal in an effort to avoid overtopping.

The present level of the Boerasirie Water Conservancy stands at 62.40 GD; as such, water is being released at Five Door. The critical level of the Boerasirie conservancy is 62.70 GD.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Health watch

IN light of the increased rainfall and the flooding in Georgetown and outlying areas, the Ministry of Public Health is advising the general public to pay special attention to their health, personal hygiene, water safety and vector control.

The Ministry advises: ● If you are living in flooded areas, stay out of the water as much as possible, as it can greatly reduce your chances

of contracting ailments such as skin infections, leptospirosis, diarrhoea, and other water-borne diseases. Direct contact with flood waters can expose you to several germs that can lead to any of these diseases. Keep children out of the water, as they are most at risk of contracting diseases. Avoid swimming in flooded canals and trenches, as during floods, they can become contaminated and can make you sick.

● If you must go into the water, use protective gear such as long boots, gloves and eye protection. Prepare a foot bath of ½ cup of bleach to one bucket of water, and wash your feet before entering the house. Apply ‘Vaseline’ or oil to your skin, as it forms a barrier, and provides some form of protection from the dirty water. ● During rainfall, you may notice an increase in mosquitoes. Protect yourself and

family against mosquitoes by sleeping under mosquito nets, and using mosquito repellents and coils. Ensure all water storage around the home in containers are covered to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes. Remember, the mosquito that spreads Dengue and the Chikungunya virus breeds in fresh, still water (especially rain water) around your home. ● Use safe water for drinking, cooking, brushing your teeth, making ice and drinks.

Safe water is water that is either treated with bleach (add ½ teaspoon to a 5-gallon bucket of water; cover and let the water stand for 30 minutes before using), boiled for at least 5 minutes, cooled and stored in covered containers, or bottled water. ● Keep food supplies from contact with flood water.

Flood water can contaminate food supplies such as dry groceries, vegetables, fruits, cooked foods and beverages.

Discard all foods that has been in contact with flood waters safely by placing in a plastic bag and depositing in covered bins. ● Wash all fruits and vegetables with treated, safe water and peel before eating. ● Keep all food items and

drinking water in sealed containers. ● Cook food thoroughly, and consume within two hours of preparation. Store all remaining food safely in a refrigerator, and reheat thoroughly before consuming. ● Wash hands thoroughly with soap and safe water, or use hand sanitizers, especially before eating meals, after going to the toilet or latrine, and cleaning children. ● Use the toilet or latrine and dispose of baby’s diapers in your covered bins. Do not mess or let faeces get into the flood waters, trenches or drains. ● Secure of all household waste and other garbage in plastic bags, and store in bins until these are properly removed to approved landfill sites. Keep garbage bins covered to avoid pests such as mosquitoes, flies, rats and roaches from entering. Do not dump garbage in drains, trenches, canals or illegal dump sites around your community. ● Watch out for animals coming into your homes. Rats, roaches, snakes, centipedes and other pests that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours.

Keep doors and windows

closed or screened to prevent them entering your homes. ● Turn off the main electrical switch; unplug all appliances and move them to safe areas of your homes if your home is under water. If you suspect electrical wiring has been damaged in your home, turn off the main and have it checked by a qualified person before turning back on the power. ● Secure all important equipment, supplies, medicines, clothing and other items in safe places in your homes. Place important documents and valuables in plastic bags and store them in a safe place. ● If you or any family member experiences any fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, cuts, sticks, bruises or other conditions, please seek medical attention immediately. The Georgetown Public Hospital and other hospital outpatient departments in the affected regions are all fully operational and equipped to provide adequate care.

For more information call the Ministry of Public Health on: Telephone 2261560, 226-1224, 225-1263; Or check our website: health.gov.gy

GWI urges caution during excessive rainfall, flooding – asks that customers maintain safe water for domestic use THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has provided customers, especially those residing in low-lying coastal areas, with a number of precautionary measures to be followed to the letter in light of the current excessive rainfall and flooding.

The following is the full text of the advisory: “Should your water supply be compromised due to flooding, ensure that all tap water intended for food and drink preparation and personal consumption (brushing of teeth, etc.) is boiled for 15 minutes. Ensure that boiled water, whilst cooling before use, is stored in a tightly covered container.

“Alternatively, water can be made safe by using household bleach: Add 3 to 4 drops of household bleach to each gallon

of water; mix well, and allow to stand for 30 minutes before use.

“Again, ensure that treated water is stored in a tightly covered container. GWI wishes to advise customers to practise rainwater harvesting. To avoid contamination, allow water to run off from roof for approximately 30 minutes before collection.

“Further, customers are advised to promptly repair all leaking pipelines within their premises.”

For further information, customers are advised to call GWI’s Customer Services Call Centre on: 227-8701, 227-8703 or 227-8704; email customercallcentre@ gwi.gy, visit www.gwiguyana.com or via social media at www.facebook.com/everydropcountsgy

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

New State Boards to be announced weekend

SEVERAL State-owned entities are to receive new Boards of Directors over the weekend, as the Government is “assiduously” working to reach a definite decision.

Minister of Governance, Raphael Trotman, made the announcement at the post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday. He said that some Boards have already been constituted, and the names of the new directors will be published by this weekend.

As for those Boards that have not yet been constituted, Trotman said that Minister of State, Joseph Harmon along with his Ministry of Governance are working “assiduously” for that process to be completed soon, possibly by this weekend also.

The new Administration has halted Board meetings of State-owned entities since the replacement of ministers.

This was because several top officials of the previous Administration had been sitting on these Boards, and deals

were inked without the then Opposition being briefed in the National Assembly.

Aside from that, reports were also going the rounds about the misuse and removal of State assets from most State-owned entities.

As such, the Government felt there was need to launch a State Asset Recovery Unit to ensure the return of those assets.

The companies at reference are the Atlantic Hotel Inc., which supervises the activities of the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, along with its parent company, the National Investment and Commercial Investment Ltd (NICIL), which was accused of inking deals without proper authorisation; contracts such as the Berbice Bridge and the Marriott Hotel.

Other companies that are expected to get new Boards are the Guyana Power and Light (GPL); the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC); the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC); the Guyana Gold

Board (GGB); the Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil); the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo); and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) among other entities.

An interim management committee has been managing the operations of GuySuCo since the removal of its Chief Executive Officer, Dr Raj Singh. The company will therefore receive a new Board of Directors to safeguard fiscal sustainability.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Public Service Union has called for the installation of a new Board of Directors for the GPHC. The GPHC is also among the other Stateowned entities that will get new Boards over the weekend.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, a l l State-media entities, such as the Guyana National Newspaper Ltd. (GNNL) and the National Communications Network (NCN), will also get new Boards of Directors come this weekend.

Construction worker charged with theft of vehicle battery G R E G O RY B h a m d e o , who pleaded not guilty to the offence of simple larceny, was yesterday granted bail after being charged for stealing an $80,000 vehicle battery.

Bhamdeo, 42, of Lot 29 Anira Street, Queenstown,Georgetown, made his appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Ann McLennan.

It is alleged that between Friday, March 13

and Saturday, March 14, 2015, at First Street, Alberttown, he stole one dry cell canter battery valued $80,000, property of Brian Ferdinand.

The construction worker was charged indictably, but upon application by the prosecutor, the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied and the defendant pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutor related to the court that the defen-

dant was arrested by the police after he was identified on a CCTV camera removing the article. Additionally, Jeffers added that Bhamdeo admitted to the theft of the battery.The prosecutor however, did not object to bail.

Magistrate McLennan released Bhamdeo on bail and ordered him to return to court on July 22, when he is scheduled to appear before Magistrate Alex Moore.

Conductor granted $15,000 bail for unlawful assault A TWENTY-three-yearold bus conductor facing a charge of unlawful assault was on Tuesday granted $15,000 bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Akeem Thom, who resides at Lot 248 Pike Street, Kitty, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge that said on Friday, July 10,2015, at Lot 73 Campbellville, Georgetown, he unlawfully

assaulted Shenice Thomas.

Representing Thom was Attorney-at-law Mr. Paul Fung-a-Fat,who told the court that his client and Thomas had an altercation, but she does not wish to offer any evidence against the defendant.

However, Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones revealed that Thom on the day in question gave the victim several

cuffs to the left side of her head and also threw another to her mouth.

After the prosecution facts were related to the court, the defence counsel claimed that Thom suffers from a head injury and further requested that the couple be ordered to receive counseling.

The matter was adjourned to Tuesday, July 21.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Golden Grove decomposed bodies…

Mother, baby causes of death revealed

By Leroy Smith A POST-mortem carried out on the remains of Eulenea Charles of the North West District has found that she died of pneumonia.

This was revealed by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, while responding to questions from the media.

The crime boss also told reporters that from the look of things, the woman’s three-month-old baby died of starvation, which suggests that after the woman had died, the baby was left starved.

He was quick to note, however, that the post-mortem results for the cause of death of the child were

inconclusive, but the signs of starvation were evident as was reported by the pathologists.

Last Friday evening, the decomposed bodies of the woman and her child were removed from their home at Lot 408 Section 3 Block ‘Y’ Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, after persons in the area called in the police.

Dead: Eulenea Charles

The dead child

The police were called in after the woman and the child had not been seen for days,while an unbearable stench emanated from the building which was tightly shut.

The woman’s spouse was not usually at home, since he works in the interior and would come out periodically, spend some time and then return to the hinterland.

The house was being rented by the couple from a man who resides outside of Guyana, and who, after learning of the development at the house, has since travelled back home to put things in order.

Persons in the area said that the woman was not one who mixed with others in the community, and that very little was known of her.

At the time that the bodies were discovered, no one in the community knew the woman’s name or that of the child. It was someone who knew the owner of the property who telephoned him and there they were given basic information with respect to where the woman might have come from and to whom she is related.

This publication was able to confirm the woman’s identity by Monday,

after a relative contacted this newspaper to disclose the woman’s name and some other personal information about her.

This newspaper was also directed to her Facebook page, where pictures of her, the baby and her spouse were posted. Her last Facebook posting was done in June of this year.

Eulenea Charles, who was of Amerindian ancestry, hailed from the interior location of Mabaruma, North West District, Region 1 and recently gave birth to her latest baby.

Her spouse’s name was listed as Selvon Charter. A check through the man’s Facebook Page found that he also has photographs posted of the now dead woman and child as he referred to them as his loving and beautiful family. The man’s last Facebook post was on June 17, 2015.

Eulenea’s right forearm bore a tattoo with some art work and the letter P. Because of the ad vanced state of decomposition, crime scene investigators could not immediately determine if the two suffered any forms of physical injuries prior to their death.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

Gov’t musters emergency relief for ‘second baptism...

“The flooding, of course, i s n o t j u s t i n G e o rg e town,”Minister Harmon said, explaining, “We had some air reconnaissance from Regions 2 (PomeroonSupenaam), 3 (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara), 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), and 5 (Mahaica-Berbice)… [And] we were able to identify the specific areas that require help.

“Civil society is involved, the Red Cross is involved, all of the Government agencies are involved, so we have a full-scale operation here at the [Civil] Defence Commission, and the fact that we have been able to activate a National Emergency Operations Centre [NEOC] is something that never happened before. We have come up with a certain plan, which will unfold as the days go by,” Minister Harmon continued.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson, the central minister in this matter, is convincedof the direct relation between flooding in Georgetown and a lack of adherence to building codes.

Minister Patterson called for the stringent enforcement of laws against citizens who impede the work of technical teams in desilting drains, since “it is affecting the whole city.”

This could be a collaborative effort between his ministry and the Ministry of Communities, even as the coastline grapples with what he noted was the highest level of rainfall in 130 years.

Such impediments, according to Patterson, are linked to the inaccessibility of drains by technical crews, which continues to challenge the hopes of a faster and more effective relief of the floodwaters.

“We have persons encroaching on our canals,” Minister Patterson said when asked about the major challenges to drainage in low-lying areas. “We have to find a solution to that because we can’t clear certain canals. The will is there of this Government to find a solution, and we will

get there.

“The medium-term solution [is that] we have to review our building regulations [and] our designs,” Patterson noted. “There are persons who have been encroaching on our drainage system for whatever reason,” he continued, questioning whether this happens because of “lack of enforcement” or “lack of will.”

While a number of sluices in and around Georgetown are in less than favourable condition, Minister Patterson noted that there are still unspent monies from the recent tranche of $70M approved by Cabinet just after the coalition Government came into office.

He noted that the monies have not been spent because of some works, which have to be tendered for, and according to him, those tenders “have just been opened.”

Offering words of consolation to those affected by the floods was acting President Moses Nagamootoo, who chaired the Cabinet meeting while President David Granger attends the MERCOSUR meeting in Brazil.

“We are very concerned about this situation,” the acting President told this publication, “the excess rainfall has posed a challenge. This is our second baptism in water, in a matter of weeks. So we are very concerned that Guyanese are suffering.”

Mr Nagamootoo shared a similar sentiment to Ministers Harmon and Patterson that while the National Assembly had approved funds for the purchase of pumps under the previous administration, the unavailability of those pumps, which have been mired in controversy, is to the detriment of the Guyanese people.

“I believe this is an unnecessary tragedy that has befallen our people, but we are doing all we can, and [we are] mobilising all the resources to bring relief,” Mr Nagamootoo continued. “If we had some of the pumps that had been

ordered from Surendra, and they had been deployed by now, I’m sure this situation would not have affected so many people.”

The opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has come out to challenge the new Government for not being equipped to deal with the issue of flooding, which has featured prominently over the years during this time. The PPP/C ceded the reins of power to

the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition after the May 11 polls.

The acting President brushed aside the comments, while pointing to what he called “the disease that has been accumulating on the backs of the Guyanese people from maladministration by an incompetent PPP/C administration.”

The CDC’s headquarters at Thomas Lands will

house the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), an inter-agency coordinating effort among Government, the CDC, and other partners. The CDC yesterday briefed Cabinet, and a report compiled from documentation in affected administrative regions was submitted to the Council of Ministers for consideration.

While Minister Harmon, as Cabinet Secretary, could not quantify how much the

From page 8

entire operation will cost, he disclosed the sum for the daily operations at the CDC at some $300,000, which would not include work done outside of the CDC’s headquarters.

He noted, however, “The Minister of Finance [Winston Jordan] has given assurance that whatever is needed to bring relief to the people of this country from these floodwaters, we are going to do it.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Bandits flee on horseback after robbbing Yakasari auto dealers BERBICE crime sleuths are continuing their investigations into the midn i g h t ro b b e r y a t t a c k by four masked, armed bandits, who robbed two Black Bush Polder auto dealers of cash,local and foreign, and jewellery exceeding $3M. The attack occurred just after midnight on Monday and the men fled on horsebacks , leaving behind terrified victims at their Yakusari North home.

Sixty-one-year- old Somwattie Telhu, awoke just after midnight to answer a call of nature. Being awake,she thereafter decided to pray, but was disturbed after noticing that her kitchen curtain was ripped off, and that several louvre panes were missing .

She hurriedly returned to the upper flat through an inner stair, where she told her husband Abdul Azeez of her observations.

The 64-year-old man then armed himself with a cutlass, and with his wife, they hid on their verandah.

Seconds later, he heard a loud explosion , and believ-

ing it was a gunshot, the couple became fearful and hid the cutlass, for fear of being fatally wounded by the intruders.

Four men, masked , dressed in dark, camouflaged clothing, two armed with long guns, another with a pistol, and the other with a knife, approached the couple, while making demands for cash and jewellery.

Initially, Telhu went into a drawer in the sitting room, where she removed $100,000 and gave the bandits, but they refused to accept that and demanded more The woman, whose hands were adorned with jewellery, was ordered to hand over her gold jingles, chains, bangles, and rings, along with $1.2M in cash and US$500, totalling $3.7M. Seemingly satisfied with their booty, the bandits armed with duct tape, taped the male victim’s hands and feet before escaping through the inner stairway of the twostoreyed building, mounting on horses before fleeing in the dark.

No one has yet been arrested.

Friday, July 17, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Saturday, July 18, 2015 - 05:30 hrs Sunday, July 19, 2015 - 05:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

‘We cannot afford regime ...

From page 4 to act on these pending issues.

ILLEGAL STRUCTURES With most of the complaints being directed to the Engineer’s Department in particular, the mayor disclosed that the department had advised him that they attempted to break down “illegal structures,” but were met with resistance from both the person doing the construction and residents in the contiguous areas.

One area which bore testimony to this was First Street, Alexander Village.

At this location, a visit yesterday revealed that a house had been illegally erected at a site which was once an open plot of land.

Though the person living there had not been present at the time of the visit, City Engineer, Culvern

Venture revealed that the house had been an illegal establishment, which was made known to the person who currently resides there.

He noted that although a warning had been issued to the man, he continued erecting the structure and ignored those warnings.

But according to Venture, the Engineer’s department’s hands are tied as the matter is currently before the court. However, he noted that if a decision is taken by Council to have the house demolished, it is legal for his department to so do.

Another location with a similar situation was Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt. At this point, there had been a mobile fast food outlet with dwelling quarters built just behind it. This too, Venture said, is an illegal structure and needed urgent attention.

Additionally, it had been

Mayor Hamilton Green and other M&CC officials inspecting the illegal structure at Alexander Village

The Kitty pump which was functioning at full capacity yesterday morning (Photos by Delano reported to the mayor, that sidewalks had been built where they should not have been and cases where concrete structures were built over canals which compromised the drainage system.

According to Green, these were issues which were of high priority for City Hall, in their aim to further enhance the development of Georgetown. He noted that these are the issues which

need to be tackled and given that the Council will be working in collaboration with the Government, it is their belief that they can restore the Garden City.

“We cannot afford a re-

gime of lawlessness that is inconsistent with our efforts to restore Georgetown,” Green said, underscoring the need for the public to cooperate in this national effort.

FLOODING As it relates to the recent flooding which was experienced just yesterday, the mayor weighed in, offering that the city was designed to drain two and a half inches (2 ½“) of rainfall in 24 hours.

However, based on the existing conditions around the city, including the illegal dumping of garbage and other issues resulting in clogged drains, only 1.5” of rainfall could be drained within 24 hours.

The flooding in Georgetown however, had resulted due to this, and the fact that rainfall had been measured at 8.260”, which was more than three times what the city was designed to drain.

Highlighting that 2-3ft of President David Granger’s house had been submerged in floodwater yesterday, Green stressed that works are currently ongoing to aid in reduction of the water.

He highlighted, too, that both pumps at Kitty and Lil-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

o Williams) iendaal had been functional and were “working around the clock.”

According to Green, at Kitty, there was only one of the two pumps working, because the sump hadn’t enough water to accommodate both pumps. At Liliendaal, however, contrary to reports, both pumps have been working around the clock.

The mayor revealed that there had been a report that the pumps weren’t functional, but it was later realised that the person who made the report had merely paid a “side visit”, and remained on the public road.

This was confirmed by a visit made by the Mayor and a Councilor, Jordan, who both visited the pump and enquired of the operator, who produced his log book, which indicated that both pumps had been working around the clock.

Working in tandem too, around the city, are excavators, even while the council is lobbying for additional trucks to assist in this regard.

One key aspect of success though, as was noted by Green, was the need to recruit more persons which he said will require more finances.

JUNKIES While these efforts are being made, the knowledgeable mayor related that it would be meaningless if positive exertions are made at the level of Government, municipality and the business community and there remain a few “miscreants” who frustrate and attenuate the positive efforts being made.

An earlier trip to the Guyana Society for the Blind had facilitated revelations by citizens who were affected by the pile-up of garbage, the burning of copper, and defecation which created an unsightly and unhealthy condition.

As a result of this, Green told reporters, “One of the things I have proposed to the appropriate minister is that we deal with those groups of citizens we refer to as junkies.”

He continued that, “They are creating havoc; they remove the garbage and waste from one place and dump it anywhere including parapets, yards of people and canals.

“My view and with the support of the administrative staff, is that we cannot be doing what we are attempting to do in good faith and allow a group of people, whether mentally challenged or not, creating trouble. It is my view that they should be called in, placed in the appropriate institutions and given medical attention so they are not allowed to come out back on the streets and trouble the work we are seeking to do.”

Remaining hopeful, the mayor posited that the ongoing restoration process, which commenced just a few months ago, will, within a year or two, return a city which had been dealing with “20- odd years of destruction” to its original state.“I believe that in a few months or years, when we create conditions which are ideal, even when we get this unusual rainfall, the water should move within a few hours and that is our hope and dream,” he said.

However, the biggest challenges being faced by City Hall right now is that of financial resources, the appropriate personnel, machinery and the ability to persuade citizens that they

need to cooperate in this grand crusade.

MASSIVE CLEAN-UP Meanwhile, a statement from the City Council revealed that the Local Gov-

ernment body will be collaborating with Ministry of Infrastructure to carry-out a “massive enhancement exercise” tomorrow from 07:00hrs. The area earmarked for special works is Princess Street, from Cem-

etery Road to St. Stephen’s Street.

Also, it is expected that extensive desilting works would be done on the Sussex Street canal. Against this proposed plan-of-action, the Council is there-

fore seeking the assistance of residents within the area in clearing the parapet of all derelict vehicles, horsedrawn carts and any other such objects that would impede progress of works to be done there.

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Ministry of the Presidency...

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

No state resources used for President’s birthday celebrations THE Ministry of the Presidency yesterday refuted claims by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) that State resources were used to celebrate President David Granger’s birthday.

The refutation comes in the wake of a statement from the PPP alleging, inter alia, that President Granger held “a huge Birthday Bash” at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s Base Camp Ay a n g a n n a , t o which hundreds were invited, and that “this blatant abuse of State resources...” was cause for serious concern.

The following is the full text of the statement issued in response by the President David Granger Ministry of the Presidency: “The Ministry of the Presidency would like to correct the disinformation and scurrilous accusations made by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in a Press Release dated July 16, 2015.

“The birthday luncheon to commemorate the 70th birth anniversary of His Excellency, President David Granger, which was held yesterday, July 15, 2015 at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Base Camp Ayangana, cost the taxpayers of Guyana absolutely nothing.

“No State resources were used. This event was organized and paid for by the “Friends of David Granger”, a grouping that includes retired Army Officers residing in Guyana and the Diaspora, and business and professional men and women who have supported the President’s political career for over five years.

“Further, let it be clear once again, that no State resources were expended when government officials travelled to New York for the June 15, 2015 ‘Unity Rally’, which was organised by the Guyana Victory Committee, a group which includes Guyanese businessmen and women, political supporters of the APNU+AFC, and Guyanese Americans living in the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut).

“The cost for travel, food, accommodation and ground transportation were all underwritten by the organisers of this event.

“What the APNU+AFC Government finds interesting in that release, however, is that the PPP/Civic has finally admitted that during its tenure in office, they abused State resources.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

Father of one gone missing without a trace

By Leroy Smith TWENTY-year-old Marcus Anthony Joseph Peters, also known as “Black Boy” of ‘D’ Field Sophia, father of a 15-month-old baby girl, has been missing since Sunday, July 5, 2015.

According to information reaching the Guyana Chronicle, the man, who was expected to visit a house party with his cousin, never showed up for the party; and while his reputed wife thought he was at the party, his cousin thought that he was at home with his reputed wife.

Speaking with this newspaper on Tuesday afternoon, Karen Boodram, the missing man’s mother, said that they made a report to the police last Friday concerning the man’s whereabouts.

According to the woman who resides outside of Guyana, but flew in after hearing of her son’s disappearance, the family does not have a clue as to where the young man is and calls to his mobile phone are going straight to voicemail.

She explained that her son’s reputed wife told her that she packed up and moved out of the house which she and the young man along with another cousin shared, after he left to go to the house party because she had disapproved of it.

The woman said that her daughter-in-law added that her son had left to go to the house party with his 18year- old male cousin, but when the cousin was contacted, he said that all he did was invite the now missing man to the party, but the man did not go with him; instead, he left him standing on the corner with two friends. The house party was supposed to be held in ‘C’ Field Sophia.

Meanwhile, Peters’s reputed wife thought he was at the party and decided to leave the home and go to her mother. However, later that night Peters telephoned the woman’s mother and asked

if his reputed wife was there and the woman’s mother responded in the positive.

He then informed them that he was coming over to meet with her shortly, but according to reports which reached this publication the man never showed up.

Asked about the two males in whose company the man was last seen, relatives said that they are in the business of doing construction work and incidentally are presently working on a property opposite the home where Peters, his reputed wife and cousin lived. When asked if they had any idea as to his whereabouts, the two young men explained that they left him on the corner and went home on the night in question.

Karen Boodram said her son’s reputed wife told her that they never really had issues, except for a short period when she observed that the man was going to work and returning very late at night, or sometimes after midnight.

A missing person report was filed at the Turkeyen Police Station and statements were taken from the cousin of the missing man, as well as his now worried reputed wife whose name was given as Christine and from whom statements were taken.

Marcus Anthony Joseph Peters is employed as a janitor at the Bank of Guyana where he started out two months ago and prior to that, worked as a mason around the community of Sophia and other areas wherever jobs were available.

He returned to Guyana about two years now after his reputed wife became pregnant. Family members are keeping their fingers crossed with respect to locating the man and ensuring that he is found.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the man is asked to contact his family members on 669 9036, 681 5155, 663 9739 or the nearest police station.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Tel: 691-6411

Vocal pandemonium looms as...

‘Princess Star Show’ moves into fifth round

WELL last Saturday the clash between the Barticians and the city contestants was quite fiery as the Princess Karaoke Star 2015 Show moved into the fourth round at the Princess Hotel.

This showcase was certainly exciting as singers took to the stage unleashing creativity and spell-binding performances that made the work quite difficult for the judges to arrive at the top 13, moving into the fifth round slated for tomorrow night inside Club Next (Princess Hotel) Dameon Apple of Bartica continues to pack a walloping punch with the support of many Barticians, but he is getting fierce competition from Georgetown’s Lashaun Charles. But one has to make room for the Bartician Powerhouse Silyne Griffith, who continues to shine like a diamond, and songbird Aaliyah Maria Rosheuvel who is quite a show -stopper at this event.

Rapper Gino Fullington is now at the mercy of newcomer Jamal Benjamin, who has moved into the top five and will certainly have to step up his game. However, the star of the night, Azzarudin Laljie, who continues to storm the scene

Aailyah Ma ria Rosheu vell

Azzarudin Laljie

captivating both the judges and audience with superb vocals and a raunchy stage presence that plays havoc with the senses.

Ayodelle Gilbert continues to sparkle like a diamond, while Lisa Walcott and Oquela Jones have improved somewhat. Michael Spencer disappointed the judges last week with a song choice that did little credit to his vocals, Dameon Apple while Louis Ebenezer continues to impress as always.

Romeschelle Brummel did not exercise her talent when she chose a reggae selection last week, but nonetheless made it into the top 13. Also remaining in the competition is DJ Mongo Slade, Shawn Williams, wildcard save Raphielle Stoner and M. Bastino is one of the dark horses to look out for in the competition.

Tomorrow night the 13 contestants poised for battle will have to bring their best to the platter or face the whiplash of the judges. At the end of the competition, the eventual winner will take home cash prizes, bragging rights and a recording deal with one of the top recording studios, plus an all expenses paid weekend for two at a top resort in Guyana, and the opportunity to represent Guyana in Trinidad.

MISS WORLD GUYANA RELEASES SUICIDE PREVENTION THEME SONG Miss World Guyana 2015, Lisa Punch, released her newest single, “Stay Alive” today.

The new song is part of Lisa’s Stay Alive Beauty with a Purpose campaign, which sends a strong message about coping skills and the celebration of life. The prevention of suicide campaign focuses on spreading hope and courage to all Guyanese, especially teenagers.

“Stay Alive” is very personal to Lisa and she hopes that lending her artistry to Miss Guyana World this platform will positively 2015, Lisa Punch influence young Guyanese to choose life. Lisa wishes to extend an invitation to the public to join her efforts to save lives and spread the message of hope by downloading and sharing “Stay Alive” with family and friends. The 2015 Miss World Guyana strongly believes that with love and support, suicide can be prevented and persons can enjoy the precious gift of life.

Meanwhile, as part of the activities leading up to the official launch of Lisa’s Beauty with a Purpose campaign, there will be a Concert and Fair on Saturday, July 18, at The Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue. This event is slated to start at noon.

Every Miss World ambassador is tasked with presenting a Beauty with a Purpose (BWP) project. Lisa is using her organisation, Prevention of Teen Suicide (POTS Guyana) to help bring awareness to the suicide epidemic in Guyana. She hopes to use her title to influence the implementation of mechanisms to continuously spread the message of hope and courage.

Palm Court presents

‘Soca Brain Wash’ this month-end

THIS month- end, the Palm Court Nightclub (Main Street, Georgetown) will brainwash you “soca style” as Extreme Entertainment presents “Soca Brain Wash” (Celebration of Freedom) Slated for Friday, July 21, 2015, this party concept will see musical vibes coming your way compliments of “Selecta Diamond,” and “DJ Shizzle,” while “Lila” will be introduced at the forum.

LASH out in grand style and with great festivity tomorrow night at Club 704, Albert and Lamaha Streets, Georgetown, when folks there bring to the forum their “Lashout CPL After Party.”

Come in groups of seven or four, or come out with your CPL Game wristband and pay half price at the door.

Enjoy pulsating sounds by the Boom DJs and party with no boundaries as the CPL Fever takes you to great heights of excitement.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

’ n a i c i g a M e h ‘Wizard t D

to weave his magic at Linden,G’town

O you believe in magic? After about five minutes with Kemarch Dodd, better known as “Wizard the Magician,” you will. He rolls his fingers, cuts coins or just keeps pulling pieces of cloth from thin air.

The playful magician clears the air about his religious beliefs. Influenced by Christian parents, he is a firm believer in God and insists that he is not doing anything supernatural or evil, and declares that his work has nothing to do with obeah.

In his opinion, magic is “a deception of the eye.” He says his magic tricks are simple illusions of the mind, although he adds that the eye must register first, then send information to the brain.

“It’s not about the eye, but more about the brain. The eye sends information to the brain.”

He does not blame those who dismiss magic as obeah, as people, he says, often say negative things about what they do not understand.

As a child, Wizard was unique, exceptionally playful and always pulling pranks and setting fun traps. He remembers the many times he would make it seem as though someone was in his bed and call different family members and friends to “scare” them.

He also remembers never missing a single magic show on TV, which first exposed him to this form of art. One day he was watching a show by illusionist David Blaine; he was so impressed that the next day he set out to the library to figure out how he could acquire such skills.

He spent three years studying before he started his practice, but still has more tricks to learn. He attended Greenwich All-Age School and Tivoli Comprehensive High.

He explains that an understanding of physics is helpful in

magic tricks. For example, where it is impossible to make an egg float in just water, he says that adding salt enables its floatation. Another trick he shares is adding vinegar to an egg to cause it to shrink, thus enabling it to slide through holes smaller than itself.

Kemarch ‘Wizad’ Dodd - Fille Wizard, a professional magician for eight years, is only 25 years old, but will be committed until he is “150 years old” he says.

This magician’s tricks include making doves appear from thin air; producing balls from one’s ears; creating the illusion that eggs are coming from one’s mouth; making hard things appear to be passing through glass; making it seem as if fingers have been removed from one’s body; making women disappear and re-appear; making glass freeze in midair as a catchment area for pouring water; making it seem as though his hand has gone through a mirror and making money change right before one’s eyes.

There is no magic in the words a magician uses, nor is there a language of magicians outside of common phrases adapted. These phrases such as “abracadabra,” “boom shak laka,” and even “presto,” are used to enhance the presentations, making them more believable.

Aside from being a magician, he enjoys playing the violin and football, in addition to performing as a clown, but he’ll never be a clown doing magic tricks.

Children on the streets often flock him as testimony of the impact he has when he operates at birthday parties and in schools across Jamaica. His magic has been shown in other

Paul Charles for Music, Model & Talent Search in The Bahamas MR Guyana International 2014, Paul Charles will depart Guyana for The Bahamas today to participate in the Music, Model, Talent Search (MMTS) 2015 International Conference slated for July 13-18.

Charles remains optimistic that after the conference, he will be signed with one of the top model agencies as he plans to take his “A Game.”

In The Bahamas, he will be participating in the runway, swimwear, commercial print and fashion

print segments. Charles was selected via an online voting method, whereby he had the opportunity to share their submissions with his friends, fans and followers to garner votes for the People’s Choice.

The inaugural Virtual Auditions Competition yielded great support, as nearly 2500 votes came in from across the Caribbean in support of delegates from throughout The Bahamas and the Caribbean between June 9 and June 12.

At the end of the selection, Guyana’s Paul Charles was selected as a model among the other three – Music: Alyssa Bullock Sterling (St Vincent and The Grenadines); Talent: Trevis Belle (St Kitts and Nevis) and People’s Choice:KaziaAurelien (St Lucia).

The week-long event offers the opportunity to network closely with entertainment industry executives, agents, talent managers, record labels, modelling

agencies, music producers, songwriters and international media.

This will be an opportunity for Charles to also promote himself, as he is slated to compete in the Mr Caribbean World Pageant slated for August. There, he will compete with several other delegates for the title.

Nevertheless, all the finalists are officially invited to attend Island MMTS, which is an invite-only music, model and talent conference.

Magician Kemarch ‘Wizard’ Dodd performs one of his illusions.

Caribbean islands such as Grenada and Curaçao.

Kemarch Dodd is scheduled to perform at the MSC ground in Linden on Saturday,July 25th, 2015 and Sunday July 26, 2015 at the DCC Ground, Georgetown. Gates will be opened at 3p.m and showtime will be 6.30 pm Paul Charles

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Miss Jamzone Guyana, Cardella Hamilton, ready for action MISS Guyana Jamzone 2015, Cardella Hamilton, will be representing Guyana in the international pageant slated for August, when she will compete for the coveted title.

Leading up to the pageant, Hamilton will be engaged in several activities aimed at getting her toned for the highly anticipated contest.

Hamilton is still pinching herself and is trying to get over the moment when she heard her name announced as the new Miss Jamzone Guyana. The queen recalled on the night of the pageant, all the delegates brought their “A Game,” noting that they all were beautiful and talented, thus making the competition a tough one.

Now that that she will clash head-on with the other delegates in the international pageant, she feels she has learnt a few things from past beauty queens that will better equip her to compete for the title.

These include confidence, which she thinks is an important factor in a pageant. In addition, she explained that the most beautiful girl usually does not win a pageant, but rather the one who is an all-rounder. “If a woman has grace, great speaking ability, style, talent, beauty and personality, she would take home the crown,”she added.

She is also cognisant that self-pressure is the number one enemy while participating in a pageant, but explained that one has to be prepared to meet deadlines, make the impossible possible and to always be alert.

Apart from her confidence, beauty and charismatic personality, which she thinks will take her to the latter part of the competition, she intends capitalizing on Guyana’s impressive range of natural and cultural assets as she promotes Guyana during the international pageant.

Come swing under the stars at the Pegasus Poolside PULSE Entertainment and Pegasus Hotel will allow you to swing under the stars tomorrow night, when they host the “Summer Swing Party Under the Stars.”

This event will take place at the Pegasus Hotel Poolside, so fans are urged to “dress up or down,” since it’s going to be a summer sensation. While doors will be opened at 8:pm, tickets are being sold for $2000.

I urge that you purchase your tickets early or pay more at the door.

Setting the musical vibes will be DJ Nick Pera, and DJ Ryan.

Cocktail specials will be available all night.

Miss Jamzone Guyana 2015, CardellaHamilton is ready for action

She noted that Guyana’s vast forests, mountains, rivers, and wildlife represent some of the most pristine environments in the world, hence she thinks that will be a plus in helping her to stand out among the other country’s representatives.

Further, she believes that Guyana is South America’s gem. However, it is her wish to collaborate with the tourism sector of Guyana to create ways and means of highlighting

the country’s vast resources.

“As Miss Jamzone Guyana, 2015, I will do all that I am able and permitted to do to help spark a flame which will hopefully ignite a movement which will see the development of our country as a surreal tourist destination,” she added.

The newly crowned queen stated that if she were to promote a tourist destination to the world, it would definitely be the exotic, breath-taking Baganara Island Resort.

This tourist haven, she disclosed, is Guyana’s true gem that offers a magical experience to all visitors, whether Guyanese or a curious foreigner and more so, it is the perfect gateway to unspoiled rainforest.

With a few weeks before the hosting of Jamzone Summer Break, she sees the event as one that brings people together.

Hits and Jams Entertainment can use the opportunity during the hosting of Jamzone to bring Guyanese together to have one big celebration despite differences.

Hamilton noted that Jamzone summer break has been a part of Guyanese culture for the past 15 years; hence, it is already an established event. As queen, she will ensure that this year is no different by ensuring more Guyanese become familiar with the concept through social media.

Nevertheless, she sees herself as an ambassador for the values and principles that embody a sophisticated, purposeful woman. She is also a determined, focused and humble individual.

Hamilton is currently pursuing the path of becoming a successful entrepreneur as well as a fashion enthusiast and in the next five years, she is hopeful that she will achieve her goals.

Summer Splash Pool Party for Ease Chalet EASE Chalet (118 Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt) is rapidly becoming a location where most of the popular party concepts come to life.

And come Saturday, August 1, 2015, this location will come alive as Freedom Family High Rollerz present their “Summer Splash Pool Party,” featuring DJ Deron, DJ Puffy, X Charly, Face X and “Seen Up.” All ladies in swimwear will be admitted free to the event before 8 pm.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Sonia Noel receives ‘Golden Arrowhead Award of Achievement and Distinction’

O

VER the last month, International Fashion Designer Sonia Noel has been super busy. In observance of Caribbean Heritage Month, kickoff began on Friday, June 12 with her hosting 16 designers and their signature pieces in the rotunda at the Brooklyn Borough Hall in New York. Her “Bridging the Gap – Connecting Caribbean Style” theme boasted an elegant aesthetic of “sweeping gowns in black and gold, to white frocks and bridal wear, as models sashayed down a long flight of stairs to display a floral patchwork attire.”

Many of her pieces came from her “First Resort” and Mariska Fashions” collections.

Among Sonia’s accomplishments in New York, she received the prestigious “Golden Arrowhead Award of Achievement and Distinction” from the Guyana Tri-State Alliance, Inc. at the Republic of Guyana’s 49h Anniversary of Independence on June 26th also held at the Brooklyn Borough Hall, recognising her “outstanding achievements and community service.” In presenting the award, Patricia Lanford Jordan, President of the Guyana Tri-State Alliance, noted that “Sonia has been a great ambassador for Guyana and we’re so proud of her.” Sonia’s other awards include Habitat for Humanity’s ”Partnering to Promote Housing for Persons with Disabilities,” a “Regional Lifetime Achievement” Award from the Barbados Music, Fashion, and Film industry;the GMSA President’s Award for her continuous expansion and market penetration ; Shabeau Magazine Award for her contribution to the Caribbean fashion industry;“Pride of Bartica” Award from the Bartica Regatta Committee in her hometown in Guyana, and the “Caribbean Fashion Ambassador” at the 2011 British Virgin Islands Fashion weekend.

From New York, Sonia headed off to Atlanta where she revealed some exciting news. After having graced regional markets throughout the Caribbean and New York, she is now expanding her brand in that city and is pulling out all the stops to achieve this goal. Kicking off the launch of her latest designs at the Design Faze Boutique, a chic women’s specialty shop located at the Cobb Galleria in Atlanta on Sunday, June 28th, Sonia introduced her line to a new clientele, offering her many unique and versatile pieces made of tie-dye fabrics, native seeds, beads, woods and bamboo collage art, which were flaunted by the models with their various body types from the tall and statuesque to the full-bodied.

“This is such an amazing business opportunity to have a designer of Sonia Noel’s calbre in my boutique; and I am positive this is a start of great things to come.”

-- presented by Guyana Tri-State Alliance, Inc it and where the barrier of success is high, Sonia draws heavily on Social Media -- Facebook and Instagram -- to keep getting recognition and exposure and to keep building her brand. Sonia Noel’s designs are now available at Design Faze Boutique, One Galleria Parkway SE, Atlanta, GA 30339.

She is off to PAN AM Games to fly the Guyana flag high once again. Cuttin’ Style Caribbean” is a fashion extravaganza that will take place July 16 - 18 at HTO Park at the Toronto Waterfront with “Fashion By The Water,” and will culminate with the “Caribbean Gala Event” at Westin Harbor Castle in Toronto on July 18. At this unprecedented international event, Caribbean Fashion will once again take front and centre stage at one of the biggest sporting and cultural platforms in the world - PANAMANIA. The VOICE, which is one of the most widely circulated newspapers in London did an impressive feature on Miss Noel last week.

In quoting, Ms Noel noted, “I would like my legacy to be someone who made a positive contribution to society and one of the persons that made a difference in the Caribbean fashion industry.”

Commenting on her awards, she added, “If it is that my sheer commitment to make a living from my creative energy serves to inspire, I am beholden if it is that my obligation to harness talent and my duty to engage the youth are regarded as philanthropic. I am blessed and if it is that these fundamental human responsibilities are being given accolades, I am re-energized.”

Veteran Fashion Designer Sonia Noel continues to shine like a diamond

tijuanafaison Boutique owner For Sonia, when it comes to great style, size certainly doesn’t matter. That is why the sizes in her collections run from the petite body- type to the full-figured and her designs flatter all forms. She thinks that “Every woman should look beautiful, irrespective of her bodytype,” Sonia told the captive audience at last Sunday’s show. Her commitment to help upgrade the industry by including sizes that are mostly ignored to some extent is matched by her passion for great design and she has a unique understanding of the limited options available for women who wear large sizes.

Sonia excitedly noted that “June is a great time to be in the U.S., because of a large number of Caribbean-American events which allowed me great networking opportunities for future business.”

In an ultra-competitive industry where it is hard to make

Some enthralling Sonia Noel designs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 16, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

FIFA corruption

Swiss authorities extradite first ‘unnamed’ official to USA A FIFA official detained in a raid in Switzerland has been extradited to the U.S., Swiss authorities say.

The unnamed man was one of seven football officials held on corruption charges in Switzerland on May 27.

He was taken to New York by a three-man Police escort on Wednesday, the Swiss Justice Department

says.

The person was not named, but earlier reports said Cayman Islands official

GTTA names IGG team GUYANA Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has released the names of its Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) team list ahead of the first leg from August 6 to 10.

Shemar Britton, Kyle Edghill, Elishaba Johnson, Stefan Corlette, Sheldon Atherley, Miguel Wong, Alec Hopkinson and Nichloas Romain have been named on the male list while the

ladies are Chelsea Edghill, Priscilla Greaves, Neveah Clarkston, Selenas Jackman, Aneka Philips, Abigae Martin and Davonna Bess.

The GTTA will also be looking to field a development team in the games or as part of a goodwill series comprising players selected to representing Guyana at the Caribbean Pre Cadet championships scheduled

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday July 17, 2015)

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 47 Tests (2)Chadwick Walton

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which team was the first to play the Warriors in a CPL game at Providence?

(2)Who struck the 200th six in Hero CPL 2015?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Racing Tips South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:45 hrs Plain Of Wisdom 09:20 hrs Copper Parade 09:55 hrs House Of Lorraine 10:30 hrs Placido 11:00 hrs Sail Intotheclouds English Racing Tips Nottingham 08:50 hrs Daleelak 09:20 hrs Show Stealer 09:55 hrs Pyroclastic 10:30 hrs Lexington Abbey 11:05 hrs Rive Gauche 11:35 hrs Nayel 12:05 hrs Colourfilly Newbury 09:00 hrs Recorder 09:30 hrs Rio’s Cliffs 10:05 hrs Bella Nouf 10:40 hrs Opal Tiara 11:15 hrs Arlecchino’s Leap 11:45 hrs Dutch Uncle 12:15 hrs Joe Packet Haydock 09:10 hrs Bermondsey

09:40 hrs Wayward Hoof 10:15 hrs Postulant 10:50 hrs Gowanharry 11:25 hrs Swaheen 11:55 hrs Memorial Day 12:25 hrs Saint Pois Irish Racing Tips Kilbeggan 12:55 hrs Coffee Cantata 13:25 hrs The Scourge 13:55 hrs Damefirth 14:25 hrs St Maxime 14:55 hrs Officer Cadet 15:30 hrs Akorakor 16:00 hrs Ciandarragh American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Graceful Gal Race 2 Chico Grande Race 3 Literata Race 4 Extensible Race 5 Graeme Crackers Race 6 Manoffire Race 7 Caval Race 8 Clutchingatstraws Race 9 Boone Station

for September 1 – 7 in the Dominican Republic in view of exposing them to higher levels of competition and as part of their preparation.

Those players are Tyriq Saunders, Jonathan Findlay, Niron Bissu, Shakiel Lewis, Kayson Ninvalle; Jamal Nicholas and Yeudister Persaud.

GTTA has named representative group of players from which a team will be selected to take on Suriname and French Guiana in the 2015 edition of the IGG games.

The GTTA has identified

Jeffrey Webb had waived his right to fight the American extradition request.

Webb, 50, is the former

and will be meeting with a panel of coaches to discuss commencement of final preparations of the team.

The coordination management and preparatory aspect of the team are being coordinated by Linden Johnson, general secretary of the GTTA.

president of the Central and North American football federation, CONCACAF, and is a FIFA vice-president.

He is accused of accepting bribes worth millions of dollars in connection with the sale of marketing rights.

Six of the seven arrested men are fighting their extradition to the U.S., where the

charges were laid.

The men were held at the request of the U.S. Department of Justice, which has indicted a total of 14 current and former FIFA officials and associates on charges of "rampant, systemic, and deep-rooted corruption" following a major inquiry by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The investigation was initially sparked by the bidding process for the Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022 World Cups, but was widened to look back at the dealings of world football's governing body over the past 20 years.

The Department of Justice's indictment says that the corruption was planned in the U.S. and that American banks were used to transfer money.

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Ashes 2015

Chris Rogers and Steve Smith dominate at Lord's

ENGLAND’S bowlers suffered a gruelling first day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's as Australia fought back from their heavy defeat at Cardiff with an imperious batting display.

Chris Rogers and Steve Smith both scored hundreds as the hosts reached 337-1 by the close.

Their partnership of 259 broke an 85-year record for Australia's second-wicket at Lord's, as Rogers made 158 not out for his highest Test score and Smith an unbeaten 129 after David Warner had squandered a promising 38 with a reckless shot.

On a day of few chances - Ian Bell dropped a low Smith edge at second slip - England's bowlers rarely lost their discipline but struggled to pose any consistent threat on a slow pitch offering almost no movement off the surface.

With the tourists now in a position from which to dictate the match, Alastair Cook's men face a major challenge to keep their series lead intact.

An Australia victory would tie the series and put Michael Clarke's side back on track to retain the Ashes.

Australia, who selected Mitchell Marsh and Peter Nevill in place of Shane Watson and Brad Haddin, have not won an Ashes series in England since 2001.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

Australia’s Chris Rogers celebrates scoring 150 runs as Steve Smith applauds.

GABF shortlists IGG squad FOLLOWING the conclusion of the 2015 Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG), National Schools basketball Festival (NSBF), the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) released the shortlisted names of its male and female team who will begin preparations for the August 6–10 Inter-Guiana Games (IGG).

Guyana will host French Guiana and Suriname in the Games that is used to foster closer working relationship among the three nations through sports.

Willan Cameran was named as head coach and Courtney Taylor as his assistant for the 22-man squad that includes: Terron Welch, Dennis Niles (Linden), Stan-

ton Rose, Damair Gladstone, Troy David, Dellon Wallace and Kerrol Phillips (Kwakwani), Daniel Haynes, Timothy Thompson, Nathan Saul, Patrice Agrippa, Sherland Gillis, Sebastian Luke, Jaleel Duke, Daniel Ramlogan, Jonathan Mangra (Georgetown), Neil Wills, Tafawa Daly, Ramone Fogenay, Osafa Profitt, Kevon Wiggins and Marvin Durant (New Amsterdam).

For the women, National female coach Ann Gordon will have 17 players to chose from - Jenelle Belle, Makeda Rogers, Jenna DaSilva, Kennesha Leacock, Anasha Gladstone, Nelosia Mitchell, Andrea Spencer, Asanti Conway (Kwakwani), Makeba Ifill, Georgiana Vyphuis, Jada Mohan, Jada Amerally, Si-

leena Arjune (Georgetown), Kayla Brush (Linden), Tandika Bouyea, Keisha Sampson and Ronella Lyken (New Amsterdam).

At a recent press conference, vice-president of the GABF, Michael Singh, lauded YBG for playing a major role at preserving and nurturing the country’s future stars of the game while noting that the Federation intends to focus on youth development.

According to Singh, Guyana’s poor showing at the 2015 Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championship, where the team finished at the bottom of the table without securing a win, was a stark reminder that it’s time to rebuild.

More corporate support needed for Blind Cricket

By Stephan Sookram THE Guyana Blind Cricket Association (GBCA) is calling on various sections of society to support its aspiration to attend the eighth annual West Indies Cricket Council for the Blind’s Regional tournament.

Vice-president of the GBCA, Cecil Morris, speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, has indicated that the sport has seen areas of success and as such is asking both the Government and Corporate Guyana to support the team.

He said, “I think that people really just hear about blind cricket and just see it in a way that it’s just some blind people that are running around behind a ball that has some beads inside; but you have to look and see the development that has come through blind cricket for blind people.”

The vice-president also told us, “If any donor could come and speak to any member of the team that has been around, even some of the new members, then they would understand what is blind cricket, and that’s why I’m appealing to persons.”

Morris noted too that there are several youngsters on the team that are new to the regional competition and as such we have asked corporate Guyana to come on board. The West Indies Regional Blind competition, into its 8th year, will be held in St Luca from July 24 to August 1.

Morris noted that training is continuing although the association has not managed to secure the entire funding required, which is in the Region of $4M. He says they have approached both public and private sectors for aid, with the government already granting them tax waivers. While he has praised this, the V-P noted they are still more than 80% short of the desired total and as such are pleading for support.

The team is encamped at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 17, 2015

It’s important to keep our momentum going – Ramdin

GUYANA Amazon Warriors captain Denesh Ramdin yesterday said that his side would be keen to keep the winning momentum going when they clash with St Lucia Zouks this evening at the Guyana National Stadium in Match 26 of the Hero Caribbean Premier League.

The Amazon Warriors moved to seven points following the “no-result” against Jamaica Tallawahs on Wednesday evening.

However, with three games in hand, they can still progress to the playoffs but they will need to win at least two of those remaining matches to be confident of competing in the knockout stages.

If they win all three games there is a theoretical chance they could finish top of the league and qualify automatically for the final, but that too would depend on how results go for the other teams.

"We cannot afford to relax. It is important we keep up the winning momentum. Tomorrow (today) is a very important one, and it’s very important we do the basics right. The result Wednesday night has affected us badly, but the one point is good to get taken into consideration our position,” Ramdin said.

Ramdin added “Despite the weather the vibes in the camp has been good so far. It’s unfortunate we haven’t get to play last night (Wednesday night) so that we could have got that

two points, but having said that, Providence been our home ground. We have a good record here so we are looking forward that the weather stays clear so we can earn some points.”

The overhead conditions could be a significant factor in this game as the weather forecast suggests that there is a high probability of rain for most part of today, but the Providence ground has the best drainage system among the international venues in the West Indies and is among the fastest-drying Test grounds in the world.

However, once there is no continuous rain, the game will not be affected. The game bowls off at 20:00hrs, providing there is no rain.

Guyanese Squash captains upbeat about Junior CASA tournament

By Stephan Sookram

GUYANA’S Squash team is confident of bringing home the bacon from the Junior Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) tournament in Barbados.

Both male and female captains spoke highly of the preparation for the tournament and the work their charges have put in.

Female captain Akeila Wiltshire stated that her charges are prepared for the best the Caribbean has to offer at the junior level.

“I think we prepared enough. We started off a bit late but I think that it didn’t really matter because we put in a lot of work during the week, fitness, running in the park and I think that we are really prepared for the tournament in Barbados this year.”

She continued: “The quality of the team has definitely improved over the years. As I said the fitness has been stiffened, we’ve been working on that; also everyone is involved more than what we had last year so I think we have a better chance of doing well this year.”

Male captain Nyron Joseph is comfortable with the work that his team has put in. “Everyone worked really hard espe-

The Junior CASA 2015 team

cially with the fitness from last year and even with the court work; they put in a lot of work although we started late. That made me feel really comfortable and I am confident of the work that we put in. We have a strong team and we should be able to catch at least three or four individual titles and that should help when we come to team competition because we want to bring home the gold.”

The teams who departed yesterday and today are: Under-13 boys - Shomari Wiltshire, Samuel Ince-Carvahal, Demetrius De Abreu, Gianni Carpenter, Justin Lilico, Quinn Lilico, and Xavier Gordon; Under-15 boys - Daniel and Anthony Islam; Under-17 - Ben Mekdeci and Alexander Cheeks.

The Under-19s have current Men’s & U-19 team captains Joseph and Alec Melville.

On the distaff Under-13 level are Kirsten Gomes, Madison Fernandes, Haley Carpenter, Aliyah Persaud and Sage Gordon while at the U-15 level is Makeda Harding. The U-17s are Rebecca Low and Sarah Lewis while the U-19 team comprises Taylor Fernandes, Larissa Wiltshire, Gabrielle Fraser and U-19 female champion and captain Akeila.

Carl Ince is the coach while Tiffany Soloman is the assistant coach, Wiltshire the manager and David Fernandes is the assistant manager.

Ticket-holders for rained-out CPL game can exchange tickets for today’s game … But ruling goes against policy

THE ORGANISERS of the Hero Caribbean Premier League are offering ticket-holders of the rained-out Amazon Warriors/Tallawahs match a free pass for today’s Guyana versus St Lucia Zouks match at the Guyana National Stadium.

Torrential rains forced the Guyana Amazon versus Jamaica Tallawahs clash on Wednesday July 15 to be abandoned and now, scores of Guyanese are questioning if they are entitled to a refund from the CPL. According to a release from the CPL, ticket-holders for Wednesday’s game can obtain tickets for today’s match by presenting their ticket stubs, which will have their names on them, and a form of identification (Passport or National Identification Card) to the Ticket Office only at the Guyana National Stadium, between 08:00hrs and 15:00hrs on Friday.

But it seems like the CPL is going against its own policy which caters to those who just might want a refund. If they are to listen to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Hydrometeorological Service (Hydromet), that stated Guyana could expect heavy rains over the next four days.

According to the CPL Limited’s refund policy, if a day’s play is limited as a result of rain or other act beyond the control of CPL Limited, CPL Limited will refund the face value of tickets purchased should five overs or less is bowled; 100% of the ticket cost will be refunded.

It continued, if in excess of five overs, but not less than 10 overs bowled, patrons are entitled to a 50% refund but, should more than 10 overs are bowed, no refund will be given if requested.

However, no refund will be given for a match that is completed early in the normal course of play; or where a reserve day for play has been allocated or a match is rescheduled and this ticket is valid for such reserve day or rescheduled game.

To receive a refund, the retained portion of the ticket stub must be presented and surrendered to a ticket office authorised

by CPL Limited within ten working days after the completion of the game for which the refund is being sought.

The CPL in a release yesterday said that persons who purchased tickets for the Grass Mound and do not have their stubs can obtain Grass Mound tickets for today’s game by presenting their Passport or National Identification Card, also only at the Stadium’s Ticket Office, Providence.

The Ticket Office has a record of all those who purchased tickets, and hence will be able to verify this and only persons who purchased tickets at the authorised ticketing outlets will be eligible for this exchange programme, and ticket-holders must appear in person.

Complimentary tickets, however, will not be exchanged.

GAPLF to host the Samuel Barker Unequipped Tournament THE Guyana Amateur Power lifting Federation (GAPLF)

will host the first unequipped tournament in honour of Linden’s Samuel Barker.

The event will be held in Barker’s hometown on August 20.

According to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GAPLF, Denroy Livan, this event will take on a different twist.

“This would not be the typical three-lift meet; we are just doing two lifts. This one is a push and pull, so it's the bench press and dead lift. It’s an open invitation therefore to anybody who feels strong enough and up to it to come and compete.”

He indicated too that this is part of the body’s move to promote the sport throughout Guyana and not centralise it to Georgetown. The PRO indicated that they will also be seeking to unearth new talent when they head to Linden with the aim of widening the current pool. The inaugural tournament, he noted, will also assist in keeping the body’s calendar active.

Meanwhile the GAPLF spokesman reminded that Barker was an avid sportsman who loved to lift.

“Samuel Barker, as we might all remember, was a wellknown sports personality coming out of Linden. He was very instrumental in developing power-lifting to some extent in Linden. When you hear about Colin Chesney and Dawn Barker, they were directly linked to the influence of Samuel Barker, so we have named this championship in his honour.”

According to the GAPLF, registration will close for the Samuel Barker Classic on August 15. Unequipped power lifting is where a lifter is not allowed any support mechanisms like special belts.

Sport CHRONICLE

GABF & GTTA shortlist IGG squad

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

It’s important to keep our momentum going – Ramdin

See inside

Page 31

FIFA corruption

Page 29

Swiss authorities extradite first ‘unnamed’ official to USA

Ticket-holders for rained-out CPL game can exchange tickets for today’s game … But ruling goes against policy

Page 31

Ashes 2015

Chris Rogers and 30 Steve Smith dominate at Lord's

Steve Smith hits the day’s only six off the bowling of Joe Root

Page

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FRIDAY, JULY 17, 2015