Guyana chronicle 08 08 14

guyana No. 103913 friday august 8, 2014

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

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All roads lead today to the National Stadium centre

––for grand opening of inaugural Guyana Festival

PPP supports call for end to war on Palestine

Page 2

––urges the U.S. to use influence to stop the killings

Rodney CoI ...

Commission 8 Chairman slams Basil Williams’ propaganda idea Page

3 Police still probing channa bomb attack at Sooba’s home Page

Off to a brisk start: Leading yesterday’s picketing exercise outside the US Embassy are, from left, RPA General Secretary, Mr Dharamkumar Seeraj; Executive Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Mr Zulficar Mustapha; and former Local Government Minister, Mr Harripersaud Nokta (Photos by Sonell Nelson)

If Stabroek news is not an opposition agent, why does it exclude the PPP/C Government’s explanations and views on local government elections?

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

PPP supports call for end to war on Palestine ––urges the US to use influence to stop the killings

By Ravin Singh

THE People’s Progressive Party yesterday led a picketing exercise outside the United States Embassy to denounce the current support Israel is receiving from the US in the Israeli/Palestinian war and to join the millions of voices across the world to

bring an end to the violation of human rights by Israel.

The protest which saw representatives from the ruling PPP, was supported by members of the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) and the Guyana Rice Producers Association (RPA) who together numbered over a hundred persons.

Chants leading the procession varied from “Stop bombing schools” to “Stop killing innocent children and women” as the group in orderly formation marched up and down Duke Street, Kingston, with their placards.

According to PPP Executive Secretary, Zulficar Mustapha, the ruling party is

Outside the US Embassy yesterday. Their choice of words says it all

denouncing the current actions of the Israeli military on the people of Palestine. He said the party hopes that the US can use its influence to assist in bringing an end to the war because the assistance given to Israel, coming from the US, is being used to kill innocent Palestinians. “The PPP is denouncing it and we are in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Palestine,” he reiterated.

Echoing the sentiments of Mustapha was President of GAWU, Komal Chand who supported the call for an end to the Israeli/Palestinian war, stressing that the US is supporting the Israeli regime.

Chand noted that the US is using some US$8.5M per day to support the Israeli military forces and so he believes they should be picketed and made to answer for what is going on in Gaza. “They have over the weeks destroyed school buildings, homes, hundreds of children, women and others and it is a terrible massacre” the GAWU president emphasised.

As such, he joined the many calls for “lasting peace” and “respect of the people’s rights for their homeland.”

Commenting on whether he thinks the picketing protest would influence the US or bring an end to the current situation, Chand explained that it will add to the millions of voices across the world, calling for an end to this war.

“They have to keep pressure like this to bring supporting countries in the European Union to understand that they (Israel) have to respect the

people’s rights to have a government of their own, and to live peacefully,” he contended.

General-Secretary of the Guyana Rice Producers’ Association, Mr. Dharamkumar Seeraj also voiced his concern noting that while the RPA stands in solidarity with the PPP, they want to ensure that the US who is considered a “superpower”, uses their influence to call on Israel to know that basic human rights are being violated with the killing of innocent children.

An escalation of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict began in June 7, 2014, following a series of events, including the collapse of American-sponsored peace talks, the attempts by rival Palestinian factions to form a coalition government, the alleged kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers, the subsequent kidnapping and murder of a Palestinian teenager, and increased rocket attacks on Israel by Hamas militants.

However, as a 72-hour cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas (the militant arm of the Palestinians) appeared to be holding even as the Palestinian death toll went up until yesterday had climbed to at least 1,900 people with more than 9,000 injured and wounded, a vast majority being civilians. These statistics was released by the Gaza Health Ministry who also recorded that almost half of all medical institutes have also been severely damaged or destroyed. As a result, up until Monday, Gaza’s dead children are kept in ice cream freezers

while the United Nations report revealed that half a million are now homeless, medical supplies are running out and morgues are overflowing.

According to the Congressional Research Service’s report “U.S. Foreign Aid to Israel,” written by Jeremy M. Sharp, Specialist in Middle Eastern Affairs, dated April 11, 2014, the Obama Administration gave $3.1 billion in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) for Israel for the Fiscal Year 2014. In addition, the U.S contributed $504 million to the joint U.S.-Israel Missile Defense Program during FY 2014.

Added to that, last Friday, US Congress approved $225 million in emergency funding for Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, sending the measure to President Barack Obama to be signed into law.

The House vote was 395 to 8.

Saturday last also saw thousands of people rallying in front of the White House to protest against the United States’ unwavering support for Israel as the regime presses on with its bloody military campaign in the Gaza Strip. The demonstration drew more than 30,000 protesters from across the country to the streets around the White House and downtown Washington.

Yesterday’s picketing exercise in Georgetown, however, didn’t last very long since it was called to an end after consultations with those leading the exercise. Approaching ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken who appeared on the scene to question whether the Police Force had objected to the protest or whether any law was broken, Hicken shouted in a hostile manner “Listen to me, listen to me… do you know who I am? Don’t ask me anything, you have to ask them why they left.”

However, the Commander’s hostility did not end there as he later remarked before he departed: “Those young reporters have no ethics… [he] come shoving things down my throat, I should lock his ass up.” The reporter however did not demand an answer nor did he have a recorder in his possession at the time when Hicken was asked the question.

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Police still probing channa bomb attack at Sooba’s home

By Michel Outridge

FOLLOWING the attempted channa bombing (Molotov cocktail) incident at the home of acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba on Wednesday, the police said they are yet to make an arrest but the probe is quite active.

Sooba yesterday told this publication that she spent the entire morning hours detailing a comprehensive statement for the police at her City Hall office but she was pleased that the process was complete so that the police can do their work.

She added that since the Wednesday incident at her residence there has been a new development to again malign her but she is not willing to disclose the details as yet but nevertheless she is standing firm.

The senior City Hall official added that she is,

however, cooperating with the police.

Police reported that at about 01:30 hrs on August 06, 2014, two Molotov cocktails were thrown into the premises of Carol Sooba at her Duncan Street, Campbellville, Georgetown residence.

At the time, Sooba was at home with several relatives while her security was also present when a dark coloured motorcar pulled up in front of her house and occupant (s) hurled two channa bombs into her yard.

As a result, the front of her two-storey wooden house was slightly scorched, a PVC pipe in her yard was also scorched and several window panes from the guard hut were shattered.

When this publication visited the scene on Wednesday morning there were remnants of broken glass from bottles on the ground and a

visibly shaken Sooba greeted the media and offered a comment.

The acting Town Clerk believes that it was another well planned move to terrorise her since she was expected to make a court appearance that very day.

Public Relations Officer of M&CC Royston King after a ruling from Chief Justice Ian Chang stated that Sooba was the de facto Town Clerk and she could remain in that position until her appointment was challenged by a quo warranto ( a writ demanding by what authority a person claims an office).

King went ahead and filed the quo warranto, subsequent to Sooba and himself approaching the Court of Appeal to quash the ruling of the Chief Justice.

The case was however, adjourned to a later date.

This latest seemingly calculated attack on Sooba

Acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba came days after Mayor Hamilton Green ordered Chief Constable Andrew Foo to pull security personnel from Sooba’s residence.

Turkeyen body-in-bush update...

Police still to run forensic tests on woman’s remains

By Leroy Smith SAMPLES from the remains of the decomposed female discovered two weeks ago in a clump of bushes at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, have not yet left Guyana for forensic testing.

O n We d n e s d a y , Crime Chief Leslie James indicated to the Guyana Chronicle that the Force’s administration is still contemplating several options, while also looking at past experiences regarding sending samples to other countries for testing.

The samples were taken to ascertain if the remains were that of schoolteacher Nyozi Goodman, who went

missing almost a month ago after attending a basketball game with her students.

Goodman’s mother did indicate to sections of the media that the remains which were discovered were that of her daughter, pointing to a belt which was discovered close to the body.

However, the police must have the necessary tests done to ensure that the remains are indeed from the missing teacher. Persons have been arrested see page 4

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Princess Casino sued over $20M winnings

Police still to run forensic tests on woman ... from page 3

and questioned in relation to her disappearance but no one has been charged.

There can be no charges laid against anyone for the teacher’s disappearance or murder since tests have to confirm that the remains are that of the woman.

In a previous case, the Ministry of Home Affairs and President Donald Ramotar himself had expressed disappointment in the investigation of the Sheema Mangar murder.

After the killing of the former Demerara Bank staffer, on September 10, 2010, potential evidence was dispatched overseas to be tested.

Mangar was at North Road and

DATE: 06/08/2014 I

––alleges slot machine malfunctioned

Camp Street, Georgetown, awaiting transportation when her Blackberry cell phone was snatched from her.

The 21-year-old woman gave chase after the snatcher who entered a motor car that drove off and she placed herself in front of the vehicle, in an effort to stop it but was run over and dragged several feet before it sped away.

Following her death, hair samples were taken from a motorcar which was suspected to have been involved in the murder of the young bank employee. The samples were sent to Jamaica but there has been no outcome since.

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By George Barclay CONTRACTOR Somar Shako of 283 Zeelugt, East Bank, Essequibo, has filed a writ against the company of Princess Casino, claiming that after winning $20M at the slot machine, he was denied the money on the grounds that the machine had malfunctioned.

In the summons issued by a team of lawyers headed by Mr. Maxwell Mc Kay, the plaintiff is asking the court to compel the defendants to pay the $20M prize money and $3M damages for breach of contract and $2M for loss of income.

In a statement of claim to support the writ, Shako said that he began gambling at the casino two years ago when he was issued a club membership that allowed him to access the facility without an identity check or having to produce any documents.

On Caricom Day, July 7, 2014, Shako said he entered into an implied contractual agreement by custom with the casino, to be paid all winnings when he entered into the facility at Providence to gamble.

Continuing, the statement of claim said that after playing over 40

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games on the slot machine, it visually announced the Jackpot winnings of $20,300,306.

At this stage, Shako said he was immediately approached by the supervisor of the slot machine. An attendant with a name tag identifying him as ‘Delon’ requested Shako’s name in order to make payment.

However, the process was interrupted by one of the casino’s manager, who asked Shako to remove from the machine.

According to Shako, the manager then opened a part of the said machine and deleted the winning message, in the presence of several persons who had surrounded the machine to congratulate Shako on his winnings.

Later, Shako was informed by the casino manager that slot machine #340 was malfunctioning and that as a result the casino cannot make any payments to hm.

Shako is asking the court to order that he be paid his $20M winnings. He is also seeking damages in the sum of $2M for loss of income and $3M for breach of contract.

The matter is fixed for hearing on August 20th .

On that day, the defendants are likely to apply to the court for leave to file an affidavit in answer.

07/08/2014

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Police making every effort to nab ‘cop’ bandits ––Crime Chief

ports within recent times of these

By Michel Outridge IN the wake of recent armed robberies perpetrated by men purporting to be members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Crime Chief Leslie James has said that these matters are of grave concern to the Force and it is only time before the suspects are apprehended.

Speaking to this publication, James explained that for men to be dressed like cops and execute crimes is a serious issue and the GPF is utilising all efforts to ensure that these men are caught and put behind bars.

He said, “We cannot have a few people out there running around terrorising citizens while posing as cops and how will people know who the real police are.”

James added that it is just a matter of time before the GPF finds them and when they do he is hoping they also get the necessary publicity since these men got the nerve to do that kind of activity.

He stated that they have had re-

Crime Chief Leslie James men posing as cops and robbing people after they would have left the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) but a new trend has developed in which they have robbed persons who were on their way to

the CJIA. With that in mind, James asked that citizens continue to cooperate with the police since they are mandated to execute their duties and they can stop, search and detain any person or vehicle they see fit while probing crimes.

At the same time, he encouraged citizens to be alert and report to the police while travelling if they see a police patrol, a roadblock or anything police-related to Force Control to verify police activities.

The Crime Chief added that the incident is a very precarious one and it has to end but warned citizens to be alert and observant so if the need arises they will be able to take evasive action.

On August 2, 2014 a husband and a wife along with a taxi driver were stopped on their way to the CJIA by two men, who identified themselves as policemen claiming they were investigating an accident and took

them to a dismal area at Soesdyke where they were tied up and robbed of cash and jewellery amounting to millions.

The victims, a private school teacher, Latchmin Gopaul, her husband, Lekraj Gopaul of Hague, West Coast Demerara, and taxi driver, Parmanand Teekaram of Cornelia Ida, were travelling on their way to the airport to go on vacation overseas about 11:00 hrs when they were stopped at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara.

The trio was relieved of local and overseas currency and the jewellery and cell phones they had in their possession.

A week before, Pastor Sewnauth Poonalall of the Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church was gun-butted and robbed shortly after returning from the airport with some overseas guests.

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Editorial

guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Guyana

The beast that devours its own THE persecution of Acting Town Clerk, Carol Sooba, the threats to her life and fire-bombing of her home by known protagonists and felons with a history of violence and even murder – and even right now the revelations at the Rodney Commission of Inquiry are exposing the real faces of the terrorists of that era where no average Guyanese was spared the terror of those times, and underlines the fact that beast is very much alive and roaring, ready to devour everyone who gets in its way, even its own.

One of the greatest Guyanese leaders once said, inter alia: ““It is clear that we must get beyond that red herring (The call to ‘kith and kin’ and blaming the PPP for every wrong) and recognise that it is intended to divide, that it is not intended in the interest of the common African and Indian people in this country.

“Surely we have to transcend the racial problems. Surely we have to find ways and means of ensuring that there is racial justice in this society. But it certainly will not be done by a handful of so-called Black men monopolising the power, squeezing the life out of all sections of the working class, and turning around and expecting that they will manipulate an issue such as the Arnold Rampersaud affair and get the support of ordinary black people because we will say, ‘After all; is only an Indian. We could hang him. No sweat.’

“Because, as I said before, you start with one thing, you end with another. The system

doesn’t stop at racial discrimination. Because it is a system of class oppression, it only camouflages its class nature under a racial cover. And in the end, it will move against anyone, irrespective of colour.

In the end, they will move even against their own.

Because, don’t believe if you are a member of that party today, that you will be protected tomorrow from the injustices. Because when a monster grows, it grows out of control. It eats up even those who created the monster. And it’s time that our people understood that.”

The only reason that Carol Sooba is being rejected by the masses in Georgetown in favour of Royston King is because of her ethnicity.

Royston King has been an integral part of a municipal administrative construct that has transformed Guyana’s former Garden City into a Garbage City, where accountability is a foresworn concept, where instances of fraud were discovered at every level of administration by the Burrowes Commission of Inquiry, and subsequently by Ramon Gaskin and team; and where King himself is alleged, with charges pending, to be involved in fraudulent acts that have cost the municipality revenue losses to the tune of millions of dollars.

Conversely, Sooba is regularising the administration of the city’s business after decades, there is accountability for monies being spent, staff is being paid on time and, more importantly, the city is slowly but surely returning to a semblance of administrative orderliness.

Thus it baffles the mind why even Georgetown-

ers, after decades of suffering under the corrupt, ineffective and lackadaisical City Council under the stewardship of Hamilton Green, whose history is known, are joining with the Green gang and baying for this woman’s head.

Events that unfolded prior to, during, and subsequent to successive PNC congresses should issue a warning bell to its supporters and they should heed Walter Rodney’s dire warning: “… in the end, it will move against anyone, irrespective of colour. In the end, they will move even against their own. Because, don’t believe if you are a member of that party today, that you will be protected tomorrow from the injustices. Because when a monster grows, it grows out of control. It eats up even those who created the monster. And it’s time that our people understood that.”

Walter Rodney paid with his life for his struggle to make all Guyanese see the real face of the beast, and unless all Guyanese honour Rodney’s sacrifice by heeding this warning, in the words of the national poet of this land, where he wrote of the then extant times “All are involved, all are consumed.”

It is time Guyanese stop fighting with each other and feeding the beast because of “kith and kin” and recognise that we are one nation whose only salvation relies on unity of purpose in slaying this beast that has been devouring the peace and progress, and inhibiting our prosperity for decades.

Ashni Singh the Robin Hood of Guyana?

I THINK everyone is familiar with the Robin Hood story, the man who stole from the rich to give to the poor.

Well, it seems we have our own Robin Hood story in the making with the combined opposition (APNU/AFC) seeking to send the Minister of Finance to jail because, according to them, he spent money from the treasury on development projects without their approval. First, let me congratulate the Minister of Finance of Guyana for spending money from the treasury to benefit our people, rather than spending it on himself, a well known trait of the PNC. We all know he did not steal the money and the opposition alliance has acknowledged this, because he has financial papers detailing the expenditures which are tabled in Parliament for every single dollar spent.

I must, however, state my dismay at the utter ignorance and stupidity of the opposition members in Parliament, led by Mr.

Granger and his band of misfits in the APNU/AFC alliance.

Where in the world does a Finance Minister go to jail for spending and accounting for monies which the court ruled he can spend, and not only this, but go to jail for spending on the people of his country as he and his government were elected to do? Just in case the people of Guyana have not been following this class act of stupidity by the opposition, let me just refresh my fellow Guyanese that the Minister is (1)being accused by the combined opposition (AFC/APNU), (2) will be prosecuted by the AFC/APNU and then (3) sentenced by the AFC/APNU. I can just see the world media descending on Guyana to report on this class act of stupidity. Our opposition leaders’ faces will be published looking as bewildered as ever, with a picture of the Minister of Finance heading to jail for his crime of spending on development projects for the

people of his country. I wish to urge the Minister that should he be tried by this band of misfits and sentenced, the only winner will be him, because the people of Guyana will have more respect for him and he will begin that journey like the Gandhis, Mandelas and the Jagans to serve time for fighting for the development of your people. I believe it is time that the people of Guyana ask themselves the question and think about it carefully: are we going to sit and see the rest of the world ridicule us as Guyanese once again for the backward step the combined opposition is taking us in? It is time we do some introspection and ask ourselves if we are going to follow, once again, the following individuals:David Granger: Member of the Army when Dr Rodney was assassinated by the PNC and see page 7

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

LOOSEN OUR GRASP Call for Boycott of Guyana Festival Our hands are tired, our hearts strained With too much grasping and greed.

Need to let go a little our grip on the world, To wear it as if it were a loose garment That we may walk at ease and in freedom, There is freedom in action indeed When in work there is no ulterior motive, Done simply because it is duty’s directive Performed with dexterity and skillful mastery, But unattached to the fruits of action thereof Balanced in success and failure, gain and loss, Free from karma’s bondage at last.

This is the path of selfless, disinterested action When work itself is consecrated activity, Redeeming and purifying as the fire of knowledge A gateway to freedom and salvation, As sung by Shri Krishna, Universal Teacher To Arjuna in sacred Bhagavad Gita.

A far cry from this standard our actions now Many deeds prompted by deceit and greed.

Selfless service, compassion and morality The anchor no longer of our actions, Every despicable act we sanction Though to others there is pain and affliction, In shameless quest for wealth and sense gratification.

The light of our humanity dimmed so low Seeds of cruel and dreadful acts we sow, Must reap the bitter harvest of pain and sorrow.

As sure as night must day follow.

Peace and happiness not to be won When others’ welfare we shun, When incalculable wealth to some accrue While souls in millions, hunger and pain must endure.

Though our fair world becoming ever smaller Room enough there is for all to roam and gather, To enjoy the fruits of honest consecrated labor If we would but loosen our grasp.

CECIL RAMKIRATH Bayonne, NJ, USA

Ashni Singh the Robin Hood ...

from page 6

also when all the elections in Guyana were rigged, who, up to this moment, is denying any knowledge and involvement; also accused just recently of rigging his own party election, again, to become Leader, which he shockingly denied although his own party comrades accused him of rigging the elections; Moses Nagamottoo: one-time presidential hopeful of the PPP, who has turned to vindictiveness to get back at the party that did not nominate him because, according to him, he was the apparent heir to the presidency;Carl Greenidge: Minister of Finance whose tenure was filled with negative growth rates, banning of essential items such as flour, author of the mismanagement of Guyana’s economy through long lines for cooking gas, water, etc, and most importantly, cannot account for the loans and grants that were given to Guyana; Khemraj Ramjattan: another political reject from the PPP, who has spite and vindictiveness as his main political goals, involved in corrupt practices by trying to vote down and stop the building of the Marriott Hotel and Specialty Hospital because his clients are owners of Pegasus and bidders who lost the contract for the same Hospital.

It is time we go back to elections and send a clear message to the band of misfits that we, as Guyanese, no longer want to have the faces of ignorance representing us. We demand strong and visionary leadership for the people and not one that is premised on power hunger, spite and vindictiveness.

STEVEN ALLY

due to fake, disrespectful ‘Cultural Village’ banner

Last weekend I went to the National Stadium for the final game of the High School Football Championship. Although the team I was supporting- Waramadong- did not win, it was still a good afternoon overall. I was glad that the ban on selling alcohol at school events was observed and it was also nice to not have to spend a ridiculous amount of money on an outing.

My enjoyment of the event was marred, however, by the appalling name calling I heard uttered towards the indigenous people of Guyana- the Amerindians.

Comments about ‘buck’ people were prevalent, mostly derogatory in nature. Also disappointing was the fact that not a single indigenous song was played by the DJ during the entire event. Now I don’t understand why a DJ is needed at a football game in the first place, but since there was one, and knowing in advance that one of the finalists in the championships was a team from an Amerindian community, it seems to me like the least that could have been done was for Mr DJ to find at least one Amerindian song to play. I have heard indigenous songs playing on Guyanese radio stations during Heritage Month, and I even own entire CDs of Amerindian music, so I know such things exist. Apparently though, all the DJ at this event knew was soca and dancehall. This lack of attention to showing even a simple bit of appreciation for the cultural diversity of Guyana illustrates what has sadly come to be true in Guyana today - only lip service is given to culture and diversity - there is little actual care or attention paid to ensuring that such things are really respected and embraced.

While the DJ’s cultural insensitivity can be dismissed as individual ignorance, the banner at the entrance of the Stadium advertising the upcoming Guyana Festival put on by the Ministry of Tourism cannot be so easily excused. This event is supposed to be a celebration of Guyanese heritage, culture, food, art, and music, to “reflect the true Guyanese identity,” as Minister Irfaan Ali’s message on the GF’s webpage proclaims. Most laudable indeed. However, when I stopped and looked at the banner advertising the ‘Cultural Village’ aspect of this event, I was shocked.

Guyana is known as the land of six people and there are indeed six individuals featured on this banner, but NONE of them are Guyanese. Sure, there’s a South Asian and an East Asian woman on top and an Indigenous and African man on the bottom , but these people are not Guyanese. They may *resemble* people in Guyana but they’re NOT Guyanese. As for the 2 images in the middle- a Heidi and bewigged man- they are even more bewildering. No one I’ve talked to knows which Guyanese they are supposed to represent.This banner is huge and has been in place for over a month now. Many people have passed it but until the other day when I shared a picture of this atrocity on social media, I had not heard anyone comment on it. This is telling to me, as it illustrates yet another instance of Guyanese people remaining silent in the face of disrespect. Because that’s what this banner is- a slap in the face to the diverse Guyanese people as well as an insult to our collective intelligence. Not all indigenous, African, or Asian people are the same. You cannot simply cut and paste pictures that vaguely resemble Guyanese people onto a banner and then try to use that to entice people to a ‘Cultural Village’ and ‘Guyana Festival’.

We are not fools, nor are we being fooled! Images of Guyana’s diverse people abound; why then are no real Guyanese featured on this banner? Yes, the festival’s webpage does have lots of pictures of real Guyanese but this banner with the fake people is the public face of the festival. Some advertising company got paid a

significant amount of money to create it and that they produced a banner advertising Guyana’s culture without one single Guyanese person on it is atrocious. I call on Minister Ali to tell the Guyanese public the name of the advertising company/team that produced this ridiculous thing, as well as to reveal how much of our tax dollars they were given. It is appalling that Minister Ali and his staff at the Ministry of Tourism approved this banner and waste of funds. That such poor quality work is acceptable, that misinformation and inaccuracies are permitted and given a place of prominence in the public sphere, that no real care or attention is paid to Guyana’s history and people- from a government minister/ministry none the less- is sickening. It illustrates their acceptance of shoddy work, deception, and disrespect for the people of Guyana. Guyanese people deserve better. We deserve to see images in the media and public sphere that accurately reflect our lives and reality. This is not just ‘nice’ to do; it is necessary for the healthy development of people, for building positive self-esteem, and for fostering understanding and respect for others who are different from oneself. These are all things that are lacking in Guyana and that have contributed to a divisive and intolerant society. This is why derogatory terms like ‘buck’ can be hurled at indigenous children by adults who think nothing wrong with such behaviour. This is why racist ads specifying that only individuals of a specific ethnicity need apply can still be allowed to appear in our local newspapers. This is why certain individuals and communities receive government privileges and services while others languish. A people divided will always be easily conquered. People ignorant of their identity and strengths are a weak people, easy to take advantage of. Children who are not taught their culture or to take pride in themselves, to value fake, foreign things over local quality goods will grow up without proper self-confidence, accepting and perpetuating abuse, and willing to sell out to the highest bidder.

People who see obvious nonsense being perpetuated by their elected officials yet remain silent, or worse, who choose to participate in the fraudulent schemes, are people complicit in their own destruction. If Guyana is to truly progress, we have to do better. We have to demand truth and accuracy at all times, in all spheres, from all people. We cannot just be satisfied with a plateful of food in our belly, a cup full of rum in our hand, and some music to wine up to. I call on Minister Irfaan Ali to apologise to the Guyanese people for this atrocious banner. I call on the government of Guyana to truly invest in cultural education and to set up concrete systems to support local artisans. Artists should not have to wait months to receive payment for their work or picket to receive prizes that they have won.

People should not have to migrate in order to succeed, or to give up their dreams in order to earn a livelihood.

Also, one-off events with sky high booth rental costs are not accessible to small crafts people and serve as money making fronts instead of real avenues for cultural advancement. I call on my fellow Guyanese to boycott all fake ‘festivals’ and to spend their time, energy, and resources into educating themselves, their children, and their neighbours instead; to develop and support local talents. Let us cooperate and organise festivals in our own communities instead of giving our attention and hard earned dollars to people who continually disrespect, lie to, and abuse us.

SHERLINA NAGEER

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

RODNEY’S DEATH: AN ENIGMA BEING ANSWERED Special Report on the Rodney Commission of Inquiry by Shaun Michael Samaroo

Commission Chairman slams Basil Williams’ propaganda idea -Tacuma Ogunseye urges national cooperation for Presidential Commission’s work, happy Dr Rodney, family finally receiving justice

FIERY drama and flared tempers erupted yesterday at the High Court in Georgetown as the Presidential Commission probing the bomb blast assassination of Dr Walter Rodney wrapped up its latest hearings.

Commission Chairman, Sir Richard Cheltenham rebuked Counsel for the People’s National Congress (PNC) Basil Williams for implying, in harsh, fiery, vexed comments, that the Commission’s motive is questionable. “I am not going to facilitate propaganda exercises,” Sir Richard told Williams.

“That is the point you want to make; it is a propaganda point. I have no time for that. I have no time for it. I am not going to facilitate propaganda exercises. So that if we have completed our business, the Commission now stands adjourned,” Sir Richard said.

The Commission and the battery of Counsels ended the latest round of hearings seeking justice for Dr Rodney and his family for the Guyanese nation on this sour note.

Hearings resume August Commission Chairman 25 next.

Sir Richard Cheltenham The PNC and a host of critics of the convening of the Presidential Commission, including private media and several groups, have questioned the motive of the Commission, claiming it was convened to engage in propaganda for the Government of Guyana.

President Donald Ramotar convened the Commission this year, after widespread international calls for such a probe had gone on for 34 years, including from several of the current critics.

The family of Dr Rodney, including his children and widow Dr Patricia Rodney, have welcomed the Commission’s work, as have several top WPA (Working People’s Alliance) leaders.

Tacuma Ogunseye, a WPA executive member who gave testimony recently, also welcomed the probe, and, in a statement, called on the 10th Parliament to ensure that the process is completed, so justice is finally done to Dr Rodney.

Dr Rodney was engaged in a populist national mass resistance against the authoritarian PNC Government when a bomb blew up in his car in Georgetown, killing him.

Yesterday, Williams sought to establish from Senior Superintendent James that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and the WPA also wanted Dr Rodney dead. The Crime Chief denied Williams’ conclusions and interpretations of information in Police files, but Williams persisted with his point, using aggressive tones.

Sir Richard came to the witness’ defense, saying he was interested in fair treatment of the witness. Williams took strong objection to the Chairman’s interjections, and erupted into a fiery verbal blast at Sir Richard that left the audience and the Counsels and Commissioners stunned for a minute or so, until Madame Samuel-Brown calmed

things down.

During his cross-examination of Crime Chief, Senior Superintendent Leslie James, Williams’ frustration boiled over as he lost his temper and berated Sir Richard in loud tones for interjecting during the cross examination.

Suave, polished and calm, Senior Superintendent James stood his ground patiently in the witness stand as Williams sparred in a strange pugilistic shout-out at the Commission.

Commissioner Madame Samuel-Brown calmed Williams with soothing words, conveying her understanding of his frustration, and Commissioner Seenath Jairam added his light tones to temper the atmosphere.

Williams calmed down, but then matters again got fiery and harsh when Counsel Williams reacted to a comment from Commission Counsel Latchmie Rahamat, to imply that the motive for the Commission’s convening may be suspect.

Williams’ client, the PNC, of which he’s Chairman, refused to partake or cooperate with the Presidential Commission. The name of the PNC Government, which ruled Guyana under severe socio-economic stress during the time

‘That is the point you want to make; it is a propaganda point. I have no time for that; I have no time for it! I am not going to facilitate propaganda exercises!’

– Sir Richard Cheltenham under probe (1978 to 1980) comes up frequently during testimonies at the Commission as the main suspect in the alleged political assassination of Dr Rodney on Friday, June 13, 1980.

During cross-examination yesterday, Williams sought unsuccessfully to implicate the WPA and the PPP as harbouring equal paranoia for Dr Rodney as the repressive PNC Government.

Testimonies at the Commission reveal that the PNC Government, which stayed in power for 28 years through massively rigged local and national elections, used State machinery, including the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to conduct secret surveillance of WPA and PPP leaders, along with scores of other Guyanese citizens and foreign visitors to the country.

Senior Superintendent James showed up for his third day in the witness box, seeking to answer questions about several secret Police files compiled through clandestine, stealthy operations of the Special Branch.

Despite several missing files dealing with Dr Rodney and the era under probe, the files that the Police submitted to the Commission show a shocking level of paranoia within the dictatorship PNC Government concerning leading Guyanese citizens.

Surveillance included movements of these persons, conversations they had, and their political activities.

Williams took over cross-examination after Commission Counsel, Ms Rahamat completed her questioning of Senior Superintendent James yesterday, where she established that the Police Special Branch engaged in heavy, detailed, widespread surveillance of Guyanese across Guyana.

After failing to gather evidence from Senior Superintendent James that forces in Guyana other than the paranoid PNC Government feared Dr Rodney, Williams called for a

re-ordering of witness appearances, saying: “We should bring the important witnesses first, because the money that is being spent here could be spent to rehabilitate roads and do all kinds of things in the communities where people are suffering.”

But Williams ended the day unsatisfied in his quest, as Sir Richard slammed his suggestion that the Commission’s motive is not above board.

Ye s t e r d a y ’s h e a ring saw Commissioner Seenath Jairam raise a point about information appearing in the secret Police files that says: “When the PPP proposed that the PNC be part of the National Patriotic Front Government, it was because it was felt that Burnham would shake off most of his imperialist ties; but with the killing of Rodney, it was clear that Burnham was very close to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and that Guyana Basil Williams and Burnham would be used by the imperialists to weaken the progressive forces in the region. Therefore Burnham and the PNC must be isolated and kept out of any Patriotic Front Government.”

Williams suggested to Senior Superintendent James that it was not only the WPA and PPP who wanted Dr Rodney out of the way, but foreign powers as well, and one of these could have been involved in his assassination. But the calm,

‘The day ended on that note of flared tempers, and the Counsels and Commissioners have the next two weeks to cool off before hearings resume on August 25, with a long list of witnesses lined up, along with a multitude of information, including several hundred pages of secret files and declassified information from a foreign Government that the Commission has acquired’ unruffled Police Officer refused to be drawn into speculation, and told Williams at one point that he would go only by what he interprets from the record in the Police files.

The day ended on a note of flared tempers between Williams and the Commission Chairman, and the Counsels and Commissioners have the next two weeks to cool off before hearings resume on August 25, with a long list of witnesses lined up, along with a multitude of information, including several hundred pages of files and declassified information from a foreign Government, which the Commission possesses.

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Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana…

APNU/AFC plan going to the same electorate they earlier described as ‘collateral damage’ OLD Kai believes in Karma, and, sure as night turns to day, it appears that the nation could possibly head to early elections, and the opposition will be going to the very people they had described as ‘collateral damage’ during their 2012 budget cuts.

How they will explain their way out of acknowledging and justifying hardships brought on to Guyanese by their actions is anyone’s guess. This is obviously a nightmare scenario for the opposition, which is why I am convinced that both the AFC’s no-confidence motion against the PPP/C government and the PNC/R-APNU’s decision to support it is simply a carefully orchestrated ruse to create discussion so as to distract from the current implosion of their respective political movements.

Mr. Granger should know that we will not be distracted, and are patiently awaiting the several in-

vestigative reports he had promised post- Congress, including the one where his driver is accused of abusing a PNC/R female member. It is close to two weeks since Mr. Granger promised to launch an investigation and provide the details to the media.

How difficult is it for this security expert to talk to his driver and the victim and prepare a report?

That could have been completed in less than a day, yet we are still waiting to hear exactly what transpired, which led to the abuse, bearing in mind this is not the first such occasion one of Granger’s driver/ bodyguards has been accused of attempting to assault and or intimidate individuals.

Similarly, we are awaiting the Party’s report on the Congress Place shooter, as they had stated that no one was allowed in with a firearm. They need to explain how the shooter managed to breach security and who

assisted him in walking in with a firearm when he was not in possession of a firearm licence.

If the PNC/R cannot protect their own membership from such threats, and their failure thus far to be accountable for the incident, how then can they profess to be capable of protecting an entire nation?

They need to tell us why they have not allowed challengers to the leadership to scrutinise the entire voting process at the Congress, and even now let them have a look at the list and assess the process, if they are so confident that the elections were not rigged in favour of Mr. Granger and his team.

Old Kai wishes to inform the opposition that this no-confidence talk will not distract from their glaring inconsistencies and outright refusal to be held accountable for their actions against not only their own supporters but all Guyanese.

Privileges Committee reviewing Finance Minister’s case to meet –––after House reconvenes

By Vanessa Narine THE Parliamentary Privileges Committee, to which Dr. Ashni Singh has been referred, was to have met today at the Public Buildings at 11:00am, but that meeting has been rescheduled to sometime after the National Assembly reconvenes.

Parliament Office officials told the Guyana Chronicle that seeing that the House goes into recess on August 10, and given that there will be no meeting today, the next date will be decided on after the recess, which ends on October 10.

According to the Parliament Office, the cancelation of today’s meeting was as a result that all members on the Committee were unavailable for the scheduled time.

The Motion to send Dr. Singh to the Privileges Committee was moved by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP), Mr. Carl Greenidge, who is claiming that the Finance Minister had breached the constitutional powers governing the spending of public funds.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr. Raphael Trotman subsequently ruled in favour of referring Dr Singh to the Committee, since, in his view, sufficient grounds existed in support of Greenidge’s Motion. Greenidge relied on Article 217 of the Constitution as the basis of support for his Motion.

The Combined Opposition is contending that Minister Singh violated the law by spending monies that were not approved of during the 2014 Budget debates, as reflected in a $4.6B Statement of Excess (also referred to as a financial paper) he has tabled in the National Assembly on June 19 last.

That financial paper restored monies that were disapproved by the combined Opposition.

Included in the $4.6B Paper is the full return of $6.1B to the Office of the President. The allocation, for current expenditures, included monies for the Government Information Agency (GINA) and the National Communications Network (NCN). Also, the sum of $450M has been returned to the President’s office for capital expenditures under the Administrative Services category. A portion of the capital expenditures under the Ministry of Finance’s policy and administration has also been returned, and includes $424M for the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) programmes; $225M for the University of Guyana’s student loan funds; and $67M for the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The Amerindian Development Fund’s $303M allocation has been returned to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, as has the $359.8M for the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA)’s expansion project.

The $4.6B Statement of Excess is the fourth since the start of the 10th Parliament and to date, of the four Statements of Excess have been tabled, 58 per cent of what was considered has been approved by the combined Opposition.

The Statement reflects spending from the Contingency Fund, hence the submission of a Statement of Excess.

LEGAL SPENDING Responding to the furor over spending, the Finance Minister maintains his contention that all public spending advanced by the current Administration has been done within the stated legal parameters, and can withstand any level of scrutiny.

Section 218 (3) of the Constitution states that: “If in respect of any financial year, it is found: (a) that the amount

appropriated by the Appropriation Act for any purpose is insufficient or that a need has arisen for expenditure for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by that Act; “Or (b) that any moneys have been expended for any purpose in excess of the amount appropriated for that purpose by the Appropriation Act or for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by that Act, a supplementary estimate or, as the case may be, a statement of excess showing the sums required or spent shall be laid before the Assembly by the Prime Minister or any other Minister designated by the President.”

Also, the Parliamentary Standing Order 78 (1), which deals with supplementary estimates of expenditure and statements of excess.

The Order states that: “If in respect of any financial year it is found:- [a] that the amount appropriated by the Appropriation Act for any purpose is insufficient or that a need has arisen for Expenditure for a purpose for which amount has been appropriated by that Act; “Or [b] that any moneys have been expended for any purpose in excess of the amount appropriated for that purpose by the Appropriation Act or for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by that Act; “Or [c] that advances have been made from the Contingencies Fund for Expenditure for which no other provision exists, a Minister may present a Paper with the Supplementary Estimate or, as the case may be, the Statement of Excess showing the sums required or spent and that Paper shall be ordered to be printed and shall stand referred to the Committee of Supply without question put see page 11

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

The venomous psyche, lack of soul and heartlessness of a poisonous snake The diplomatic community of western and European countries is noted for ignoring the multiplicity of real problems in their own countries and undermining the peace in other countries under the guise of supporting democracy; when in fact they are enabling the undemocratic war-mongers to destabilise their

host nations.

And therein lies the crux of all Guyana’s problems, even during the times of the first PPP Government. The fact that they are very supportive of the opposition cabal in Guyana is well-established, as evidenced by their actions and rhetoric; and this is what has emboldened

the joint opposition to sound the drums of war in this nation, which is peacefully pursuing an incrementally upward developmental trajectory.

So one wonders at the intentions and the real agenda of these alien creatures who are undermining our national peace and unity.

If they succeed in removing the PPP/C Government – by force or rigging of elections -- what alternative in Government or leadership are they offering this nation that would not result in developmental retrogression, as has happened before because of their interference in Guyana’s socio-political dynamics?

Brent Hardt’s disdain for the PPP/C administration and open encouragement to the evil Machiavellian opposition to insurrection is well-documented, and received a fitting answer from Minister Priya Manickchand.

However, the diplomatic community has gone underground since then, and has been holding clandestine meetings with opposition forces who have a history of inciting violent confrontations and much destruction in this nation.

One wonders what they stand to gain, and what is the exchange for their support for the very people who destroyed this country all because of their support; and continue their destructive ways.

The unconcern of the joint opposition in cutting budgetary allocations to vital sectors, which has negatively affected even the supporters of the opposition; their non-support of the AML/ CFT bill and transformational projects which would have greatly expanded commerce, provide Guyanese with affordable and dependable energy, affordable tertiary healthcare; job, and wealth-creating opportunities, among other benefits, to enhance the lives and livelihoods of the citizens, is worrying and indicates a confidence of victory at the polls, even if their actions drive their supporters away.

Nagamootoo’s underlying and latent threat of insurrection as he called for a ‘no-confidence’ motion, as preferable to removing the Government by violent means, has sinister implications, especially when taken together with the constant engineering of violent actions by supporters of the opposition, as was seen up to recently at Linden and Agricola; and the inflammatory rhetoric that is constantly drummed into the psyche of the nation, especially the youths, has driven fear into the hearts of peace and progress-loving Guyanese.

In the outbreak of violence at both Linden and Agricola, Nagamootoo was integral to precipitating the situations with open threats of ‘consequences’ if the President did not fire Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee within hours.

Accompanying his ‘no-confidence’ threat against the Government with the assertion, once again, that Minister Rohee’s participation in Parliament is Government’s political risk bespeaks a mind so utterly vile that, merely because he begrudges and hates his former colleagues, he would take the nation down a retrograde path, even if it establishes the dreaded PNC into Government once more; which would be the only outcome of all Nagamootoo’s anti PPP/anti-Government/anti-national actions.

When the Jagans nurtured some belly-crawling snakes within the bosom of the PPP, they had no idea that those vipers would turn around and inject their venom into the very nation that they loved.

guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Privileges Committee reviewing Finance ...

From page 9

and shall be appointed to be considered on a day to be named by the Minister presenting the Paper but not earlier than one (1) day after that on which the Paper was presented.”

In addition to the AG, the Finance Minister also maintains the contention that all public spending advanced by the current Administration has been done within the stated legal parameters and can withstand any level of scrutiny.

GO TO COURT Additionally, Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, in a prior interview with the Guyana Chronicle has indicated that a move to a court of law will be the better forum to address the expressed concern of an alleged “unconstitutional” act.

Nandlall surmised that with the majority representation on the Committee of Privileges being MPs representing the combined Opposition, there is a greater inclination to move to the Committee, rather than to the court, which is charged with the interpretation of the laws of Guyana and pronouncement of alleged breaches.

AG said, “There is a fundamental challenge, which this Committee of Privileges

will face. It is a fact of public notoriety that the joint Opposition enjoys a majority on all committees in the National Assembly.

“I have no doubt that the Privileges Committee will be similarly constituted. Leading members of both Opposition parties have openly and publicly made statements to the effect that Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh has violated the law and the constitution.

“Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, Leader of the Alliance For Change, has gone a step further.

He alleges that the Minister has committed criminal offences. He has lodged a report with the police. These are the very political parties from whose membership this committee will draw its members.”

The AG pointed out that members of the combined Opposition have already made public statements that definitely pronounce on the actions of the Finance Minister.

“These very political parties have already, in their public statements, made a finding of guilt against the Minister. How they will be able to bring an impartial mind to bear in the deliberations of the committee, in my view, will be a legal impossibility,” he said.

The political parties are to agree on a date for a meeting of the Privileges Committee.

National Toshaos Council meeting billed for September - as gov’t makes further inputs to sustainability of hinterland village economies

By Telesha Ramnarine PREPARATIONS are currently ongoing for this year’s National Toshaos Council meeting which is likely to be held in the latter half of September, Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon said Wednesday.

He was speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at the Office of the President in Georgetown.

He said that Cabinet last Tuesday made further contributions to the improvement and sustainability of hinterland village economies.

“Sustainability was continuously addressed and its main focus for the administration has been the contin-

ued access to public funding by the residents of hinterland communities to capital goods and also payment for services rendered,” he said.

Cabinet now has complemented those initiatives by deciding to allow councils of Amerindian-titled communities to tender for contracts being awarded in their areas, generally civil contracts.

Dr Luncheon said the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development would oversee and promote the enablement of these councils that would allow them to participate in the public procurement process, thereby enhancing the growth and development of village economies.

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Minister Whittaker to iron out kinks in Region 7 solid waste management

By Derwayne Wills AS the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Programme gets underway, some concerns have been expressed to this publication about what was described as the “lackadaisical attitude” of one private contractor, Wayne Nurse, who was tasked with dealing with solid waste disposal in Region 7 (Cuyuni/Mazaruni).

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Norman Whittaker in response to this contention stated that while he is aware of all the concerns expressed, the contractor “is expected to collaborate with the NDC [Neighbourhood Democratic Council] and also with the Regional Democratic Council [RDC].”

According to him, the RDC under Regional Democratic Chairman, Mr. Gordon Bradford, “would have entered into a contractual arrangement with the contractor with respect Minister of Local Governto the landfill site.” He ment and Regional Develadded that “he [the conopment, Mr. Norman Whittractor] is required to taker. construct the site. He has started some work, [and] he has removed some of the vegetation.”

Mr. Nurse also must “construct an access road to the site,” as well as fund the further development of the site which is “a separate arrangement from the actual operations of the site.”

The agreement will see the contractor building ties with the citizens of Bartica and “engaging households in return for an agreed fee... [which] we have to approve.”

Site at Byderabo, Bartica which the contractor will use as the Region 7 landfill The solid waste will be received by the contractor and transported to the site according to schedule on the agreed dates.

When asked whether the reports were correct that the contractor had been receiving close to $300 per barrel from residents, the Minister stated that he is currently unaware of that situation but he promised to address the matter.

At a recent ceremony when the media were invited to view the operations at Haags Bosch, Minister Whittaker had disclosed that the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded Haags Bosch landfill was to be replicated in other regions.

guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

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Contracts signed for construction of Staff living quarters for Kaieteur National Park

A CONTRACT worth $41M has been signed for construction of Staff Living Quarters at Kaieteur Top, Kaieteur National Park, thus fulfilling a commitment made by Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE), Robert M. Persaud, to improve facilities at the Kaieteur National Park.

Through its Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the MNRE signed the construction contract with Alvin Chowramootoo Construction Service and Block Making Company, following a competitive bidding process.

This is the latest infrastructure project in developing the National Protected Areas System (NPAS) which is being implemented through the Guyana Protected Areas Systems (GPAS) Project Phase II, following commitment by the Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment.

According to Minister Persaud construction of the Living Quarters is part of an overall development rehabilitation programme that will support the newly established Protected Areas Commission in managing its monitoring activities within Kaieteur National Park.

The quarters would house permanent staff such as Park Wardens and Tour Guides, who would be conducting daily monitoring of the Park to ensure visitors have

EPA has engaged the Innovative Engineering Cona safe and hospitable stay GPAS Project Phase II is a Government of Guy- sultancy Service (IECS) to supervise the construction ana/Government of Germany project which is being works. funded by the German Development Bank (KfW).

This project commenced in 2011, and is being implemented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment through the Environmental Protection Agency.

The GFA Consulting Group has been engaged to provide support to the EPA throughout the execution of the project. Phase I of the GPAS Project, which commenced in 2004, was concluded in 2011.

Construction works EPA’s Senior Environmental Officer, Ms. Bibi Sharief (second right) presenting for the Living Quarters contracts to IECS Representative, Mr. Deoraj Dalchand, for Supervision of the have commenced, and are Project. Also in photo are Mr. Ben ter Welle, Team Leader, GFA Consulting scheduled to be completed Group, and Mr. Joel Breems, Protected Areas Commission Representative within six months. The (first and second left); and Project Contractor, Mr. Alvin Chowramootoo (right)

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

GuySuCo Board appointed, but names still to be announced ––Dr. Ramsammy

THE names of members of the new Board of Directors of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) have not been announced, almost two weeks after a promise had been made in this regard.

Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy told the Guyana Chronicle that the GuySuCo directors have been appointed, but the formal announcement is yet to be made.

He added that the new Directors are currently engaged in orientation meetings with the relevant stakeholders.

Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

Nine individuals had been identified to sit on the Board of Directors some weeks ago.

The life of the existing board was extended by six months to June 30, and the new Board’s appointment was scheduled to come on stream from July 1.

Under new management, GuySuCo is expected to lead accelerated progress to ensure the industry’s

turnaround.

The sugar industry is projected to record an improvement of 15.6 percent in output to 215,910 tonnes in 2014, and a whopping sum of $6B has been allocated to the sector in the 2014 Budget, given the industry’s important role in national development.

Among the measures to be undertaken to ensure a turnaround of the industry, which the allocation addresses, are: increased production and lower cost of production; diversified target markets, and expansion of value-added production.

In 2013, sugar exports accounted for 8.3 percent of total exports valued at US$112.2M, and the industry contributed 3.9 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. (Vanessa Narine)

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All roads lead today to the National Stadium

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally

THE highly-anticipated inaugural Guyana Festival opens today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The Guyana Festival - Sound, Soul and Taste - for the very first time, the fusion of the six different cultures that make up the Guyanese tapestry will be brought together in a true melting pot that reflects the Guyanese identity.

The Guyana Festival National Concerts boast an exciting lineup of entertainment with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) performing an air show slated to start at 17:30hrs.

The National Concert, to be held under the theme ‘Myths and Legends ...Sweet, Sweet Guyana’ is just one element of an action-packed weekend. A host of other events and attractions will be taking place at the National Stadium, including live music, kids zone complete with Coney Island and daily displays of art and craft.

The opening sequence incorporates spectacular multiple

––for grand opening of inaugural Guyana Festival

Activities slated for Opening Night

entrances featuring Guyanese diverse folkloric figures such as Moon Gazers, Mother Sallys, Stilt Men, Chinese Dragon, Mad Cows, Masakouriman, Fairmaid and a huge, colourful human male and female costume. An explanation of Guyana’s cultural heritage will also be depicted in the form of drama giving the audience a reminder or an all-together new experience.

Acting Minister of Tourism Irfaan Ali recently explained during an invited comment that, “The concert is the headline event in an exciting weekend of Guyana Festival celebrations, which will ensure that the National Stadium in Guyana is the place to be.”

He urged all Guyanese to take part in this event and indicated the tremendous support the festival is already attracting.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have attracted such a fantastic line-up. The sheer variety of performers is sure to appeal to

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014 family audiences; there’s plenty for younger concert-goers but also acts that their parents will enjoy,” Ali said.

Guyana Festival passports are available for the event and the demand is very high. Priced at $3,000 each, this allows entry on all three days, includes thousands of dollars’ worth of coupons and gives holders a chance to win a car.

The festival passports can be uplifted from the following locations: Nigel’s Supermarket, Ashmins Store, Courts, N and S Mattai, Survival Supermarket, KK Gas Station (Mahaica), M and M Snackette, Courts at Parika, Church’s Chicken at Linden, Essential Care Pharmacy, G3 Building at Diamond Housing Scheme, Fat Boy Discount Store (Stelling Road Vreed-en-Hoop), the Ministry of Tourism, South Road Office and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.

Night of the Legends, slated for August 9, has an exciting line-up of the best local music, bands, and artistes to perform.

It is expected to give patrons an experience of a lifetime to witness Guyanese artistes belt out renditions that were only talked about. Persons slated to perform at this event are Dave Martin, Aubrey Mann, Teddy Jones, Glen ‘Fluff’ Miller, Hilton Hemmerding, Johnny Braff, Terry Gajraj, Mighty Rebel,

Devindra Rooran, Sammy baksh, Sash Persaud, Yoruba Singers, Winston ‘Zar’ Caesar and Celia Samaroo.

The ‘Generation Next’ Concert will take place on August 10 and some of Guyana’s young and energetic artistes that will be performing include Jomo “Rubber Waist” Primo, Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts, First Born, Big Red, Rajesh Dubraj, Alabama, Adrian Dutchin, and Kwasie Edmonson.

The Festival Cookout is also slated for August 10, said Mr. Looknauth Persaud, the head of the Festival Cookout Committee and owner of Kings Jewellery World. All Guyanese are welcome to participate in the Festival Cookout as this will provide the chance of showcasing their skills. He said, “This is the opportunity for Guyanese to come out and showcase their skills. There is excitement about the event and we want this to kick start new businesses,” he said. Persaud reiterated that persons and groups interested in participating in this exciting and novel event can access the registration forms from the website www.guyanafestival.gy or visit the facebook page: Guyana Festival.

Another attraction for the Guyana Festival is the eagerly-awaited cricket match. This exciting competition, which will see the Master’s team pitted against the

President’s XI, forms part of the Guyana Festival games which will also include a thrilling football match. Festival officials have assured that spectators will be entertained as Guyana’s past and present ‘greats’ in the cricketing fraternity meet on the pitch.

Members of the GDF practicing for their upcoming air-show

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Turn to page 34

Not so long ago, some very appealing but secluded lasses met at a broiling forum to decide who possesses the glitz and glamour associated with this page. Now, remember folks, these ladies are certainly on the ‘down-low’ in the fashion world, and were tasked with creating their own ‘fashion teasers’ What came out of it all was sizzling outfits done by the girls from ‘Veena’s Sweet Treats’, subtle designs from ‘country sizzla’ Anasa Williams, and remarkable glamour from Bootilicious hotties Keisha, Suenanta, and Keishawa.

We will allow you, the readers to, be the judge and decide which girls really rocked the world with their fashion ideas.....

N a d a t a Vancooten is arguably one of the s e x i e s t divas around town.

Anasa brings t e e n a g e g l a m o u r from the countryside.

Telephone Contact # 616 0301 or 227 5216

This Indo sista reeks of provocative sizzle...

Tonisha is sleek and impressive...

And this hottie brings rich teenage flava from ‘Veena’s Sweet Treats’.

Suenanta is one hot, curvacious ‘peppa fly’.

Let’s welcome this super-curvy queen, serving up a hot platter of ethnic glory.

Eh eh... Wan hefty momma swinging frum chandeliers.....

Keishwa Sampson rolls her thunderous curves in readiness for her competition.

Keisha dares you to match her tropical curves.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Bombshell’s Hottest Babes…

Bombshell’s dream girl dreams of meeting Mr Right. Are you the one?

EVERY man dreams of the perfect woman, and he would most definitely want her to come in a package reeking of sauciness, great sex appeal, and distinct sophistication.

Well, our ‘Bombshell Babe’ this week possesses all these qualities; and she also tops the cake by sprinkling enticing portions of intelligence, creativity, sensual allure, and provocative charisma on her personality.

This 21-year-old bubbly damsel strangely enjoys chasing pond flies in wide open pastures, and somehow can still transform into a ‘sexy siren’ that will certainly ‘make your teeth sweat’.

She adores travelling, dancing, and meeting CREATIVE individuals; and has her sights set on the finer things of life.

Shannie is, of course, single and is an ambitious customs broker on the local shores. While she still awaits the coming along of her dream guy, she continues to focus on attaining higher education, which is her ultimate goal.

If any of you GENTLEMEN (no hooligans, please) out there think you are ‘Mr. Right’, then please email her at hinata8585@yahoo.com That is, if you have got the stuffings that differentiate the men from the mannequins.

Shannie Singh

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You Shouldn’t Do That!!!

Yes offisah, arrest dem hooligans!!!

ALL around in our city today, citizens are in fear of their lives and the retention of their valuables as several unemployed young men pounce on unsuspecting individuals and rob them in broad daylight of very valuable items.

These young thugs have become so daring these days that they just sublimely ignore whoever is around when they set about to commit their hideous crimes, in process painting to foreigners and visiting tourists a horrible picture of our beautiful Guyana.

Well, a certain group operating in the Stabroek Market area recently got the shock of their lives as they lurked around like proverbial vultures ready to pounce on the vulnerable and the unsuspecting, their wild, venomous eyes darting here and there in search of seemingly defenceless persons on whom to prey.

They certainly did not bargain for the rapt attention they were slyly getting from two police officers who were nearby. As they prepared to pounce on the busy ‘after work’ crowd, the police officers swooped down on them like eagles, and smashed all their lofty dreams of collecting bountiful booty.

Two of them tried to

Yes afficazs, lack dem up...

Dem is ah menace tuh society...

put up a fight with the alert and capable lawmen, but those two police officers were in no mood for idle theatrics, and just bundled them away unceremoniously

to face the wrath of the law.

Good for the image of the Guyana Police Force!!

Good fuh dem thief maan!!

Well done lawmen! Arrest dem hooligans, afficah!

Artiste of the Week

Kishaun Doobay poised to release yet another scorching hip-hop single GUYANA is indeed flooded with tons of very talented singers; but what has been noted is that, with the exception of the hip-hop star ‘Gialiani’, not much focus is placed on the few other locals who attempt to break through in that field.

While the hip-hop genre of music is regarded by many here as an ‘overseas intrusion’, there are quite a few locals who can

certainly hold their own against the international dons and divas of hip-hop, if they are only given the chance. Amongst them is the still very young and talented Kishaun Doobay, who came unto the scene in 2007 when he teamed up with partner Brandon Facey to make a grand entrance, which is still remembered by many.

Moving to Tortola (British Virgin Islands) soon

after, he has hyped his vocal package better, and has now returned with a reservoir of experience as he prepares to launch a new single, dubbed ‘Drop in down Low’ in the coming week.

Facey has migrated, so Doobay is now performing solo. To date, he has done several singles, with ‘Say my Name’ being amongst the hottest of the line-up. He intends to soon create a music

video for his latest release, and is earnestly soliciting assistance to make this a reality.

Come on now you rich ones…. Don’t be mean now…. Put a little kindness in your heart and dig into your pockets. You can certainly find some ‘small change’ there to assist this very talented son of the soil.

Don’t flip these pages and roll over in disdain. If you do so, your conscience may just never allow you to sleep well again. (lol) Pretty please call Mr. Doobay on telephone n u m b e r 6 8 7 - 11 5 6 a n d

help to make his dream come true.

So far, Doobay, under the label of ‘Nu-Era Singers’, has performed at the Guyana Fashion Weekend (Glamour Model Search event); Red House, Kingston, Georgetown; and also at the Bartica Regatta festivities last year, amongst a few other locations.

His advice to fellow Guyanese artistes is to “start cheating on your fears; break up with your doubts; get engaged to hard work, and go marry your dreams”.

Kisaun Doobay

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Bombshell’s Profile Personality

Dr. Rosh Khan is a secluded son with a purposeful mind

Dr. Rosh Khan

THIS week, we are proud to be featuring a somewhat secluded but very intelligent and talented son of the soil, who has been, and will continue to be, a positive contributor to Guyana’s development through his excellent works in the areas of medicine and other issues that really matter.

Bombshell sat down with this endearing personality for an interview recently, and we are elated to bring you our findings.

You may be most pleasantly shocked to find out that, despite his deeply rooted studious demeanour, Dr. Rosh Khan was the adventurous type as a young boy, doing almost everything his parents forbade.

He was always exploring and climbing, taking his wild treks to the roof top to watch the sun set in the evening. But he has a strange ‘mix’, in that he was equally academically-oriented, to the point where people thought he was ‘strangely different’.

While other students feigned sickness to avoid school, he would cry bitterly when he was genuinely ill, imploring his parents to let him attend school despite his ailment.

Dr Khan aspires to move back into medicine and to create educative systems for better schooling.

He is of the view that the entertainment fraternity in Guyana can be further boosted, if only we join as one body to ‘push the arts’ and create platforms in which the corporate sector can get on board and focus more on this promotion.

The Interview…

BS: What is it that you do exactly Mr. Khan?

RK: I own and run So-

cialRank Media, a social media agency that’s responsible for social business development, social software development, and social media marketing. I also consult for Fortune 500 companies, speak around the world, and work with hundreds of small- and medium-sized businesses to take their business to the next level.

In addition to this, I also coach “newbie” entrepreneurs, teaching them the ropes of creating a full-time income using the Internet.

When I’m not working, I serve as the Curator for the Global Shapers Community, Georgetown Hub. BS: You mentioned Fortune 500 companies. What are some examples of companies you’ve worked with?

RK: To name a few, they would include FORD, Armani Exchange, ClickBank, ANSA McAL, Arbonne, GiantNerd, Starbucks, and many more. Even though those are great clients, my preference lies within working with small- and medium-sized businesses and the entrepreneurs that fuel those.

BS: How did you go from a certified medical graduate to a successful entrepreneur with an Internet-based business at age 24?

RK: My decision to go to medical school was fuelled by the intense urge to change the world and make it a better place. However, after graduating, I realized that, through entrepreneurship, it would be possible to do even more on a much grander scale. With a successful business that focuses on both people and profits, profits can be utilized to construct hospitals, fund humanitarian aid, award research grants, conduct medical outreaches, launch education platforms, and so

much more.

So with this desire and my love for people and technology, I started up a social media “bedroom business” in January 2011.

BS: Does this mean you are never going back to medicine?

RK: Oh not at all! I’m still quite in love with medicine! Even right now, I’m working on refresher courses to enable me to practise – even if purely on a volunteer basis. I’m working on plans that seek to provide medical outreach programmes across Guyana on a consistent basis. More details about this will be shared in the coming months!

(BS): At the age of 26, you’ve been featured in multiple magazines, published in books, and asked to speak on stages around the world.

How were you able to do this?

RK: I believe it all comes down to one word - PURPOSE. When I align myself with my internal ‘why’, it creates boundless energy. Finding my purpose has not only driven me to high levels of productivity, but it’s enabled me to remain persistent in the face of challenges, and to keep on pushing the envelope every single day.

Purpose is what makes me believe that anything is possible. A lot of people ask me, “But don’t you have to learn a bunch of skills to do what you do?” The answer is simple, and it’s always the same, “Yes, but just find your purpose, and it will fuel you to do anything you want.”

BS: You’re successful, but have you ever experienced failure?

RK: Oh but of course!

Whether I’ve messed up a presentation or had a failed venture, there have been failures. But I’ve been quot-

ed before as saying, “Failure is an inevitable byproduct of pushing the envelope.

The secret to success is in knowing that failure is never the final destination.”

BS: Have you faced challenges because of your youth in the business world?

RK: Quite the contrary!

Instead of diminished credibility due to my age, I’ve been viewed as the “whiz kid” who figured things out early. This, instead, gives me an edge which I try to leverage at every opportunity.

However, with 30 around the corner, I’m not sure how long I could use that strategy. Ha!Ha! BS: Would you recommend that young people start businesses?

RK: Without a doubt, the resounding answer is YES! Where there is youth there is passion, and when coupled with humility, enthusiasm, curiosity, and a drive to create solutions, you have a budding entrepreneur. I also believe that in today’s world, we need the youth (more than ever) to take a leadership role and help drive the economy towards one of prosperity with their fresh and innovative ideas.

BS: In Guyana, it might be said that while young people are willing, there are not a lot of opportunities.

Would you agree?

RK: It all comes down to perseverance, or as some might prefer to say, hustle.

Yes, circumstances may be tough. Yes, opportunities may be limited. But you know what? More than access to resources, it’s about being RESOURCEFUL. This is something I firmly believe in!

If young people are willing, they have to make that extra effort to seek out mentors, to explore the idea of taking on a parttime job to raise capital, or even (to open) a small side-business in their community. They must be willing to seek out information that will bring them closer to their dreams.

In this day and age, when almost every young person has access to the Internet (even if through their phone), there’s really no excuse.

BS: When you’re not working, what are you likely to be doing?

RK: As I mentioned earlier, I’m the Curator for the Global Shapers Com-

Doctor Rosh Khan has smashing good looks that are suited for the international runway In more recent times, munity – Georgetown Hub. I was listed as “one of the As a youth group, we have many projects happening. Top 100 People to Follow on We are feverishly working Facebook”, which included on projects centred on Hu- others like Mark Zuckerberg. man Rights and Education.

BS: What’s your next I’m also involved with PACT (Purposeful Action “big thing”?

RK: As it relates to Changes Things) that’s working with unemployed business, I’m not sure youth to prepare them for there’s another “big thing”; jobs and/or to find job op- it’s more about a series of small things that add up. My portunities for them.

BS: What is your philos- next big trip is to Geneva, Switzerland, to meet with ophy on life?

RK: I believe that it is the other Curators of the our decisions that chart our Global Shaper Communidestiny. No matter the cir- ty. After that, my next big cumstances that come our engagement is at the Social way, it’s ultimately how we Media Summit East, where respond to them that makes I’ve been asked to be the main speaker on Facebook all the difference.

For most people, it is Marketing to a crowd of almost always easier “not to 5,000 entrepreneurs at Tamdo” than it is “to do”. How- pa Convention Center.

I’ve also been asked to ever, when you make the intentional decision (followed speak at a marketing event in by a series of intentional ac- Ireland. But aside from all of tions) to do something, you this, I’m also working on a create a better and brighter book that I will release to the future for your life and the Amazon Kindle Store soon.

BS: What are your plans lives of those around you.

BS: What about family for the future?

RK: I shall continue exsupport? Is there any? panding my business and diRK: I’m blessed to have a family that has been there, versifying into other indusand continues to be there, in tries; but, more importantly, everything I do. The value I’ve made it my mission to system my parents raised help inspire the dynamism their children with has di- that seems dormant within rectly benefited me in my much of the youth, and to reverse the ‘brain drain’ adult years.

BS: Tell us a few things plaguing our country.

I have bold plans for about you that might surGuyana’s future, as it is prise most people.

RK: Most people are my belief that this country surprised when they hear can become a hotbed for I’m a Doctor of Medicine business and innovation in (MD). But what many don’t the world.

BS: How can people know is that I’m also a black belt in martial arts practice connect with you?

RK: Persons can reach of Shotokan. And moreso, I’ve spent time at Camp me via email (rosh@soSeweyo with the Guyana cialrankmedia.com) or on Defence Force for the Basic Facebook (www.fb.com/ Recruitment Course, where rkhan.med). I’m always I was recognized for “Best excited to connect with amazing people!

Shot” and “Best Student”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Gossip!!! Gossip!!! Gossip!!! Gossip!!!

Some bax-haan holdahs want a real hard slap on deh hand DEH gat some people in dis world dat does deh bout de place playing real bullies and actin like deh ‘wrang and strang’ wid thesselves.

Now imagine, just de adda day we visit a certain village and was shocked to find out dat de village is no longer de quaint settlement it used to be, but instead is a village wheah some residents become wanton and vulgar in deh behaviah.

Eh eh when we de just begin thinking dat we done wid dis village, we get summoned dere because ah de raucous attitude of a woman

named ‘Sista Greeta’, who causing a set a trouble in de village and mekkin some villagers uncomfortable.

Well, if yuh wandering why deh does call she Sista Greeta, is because, in years gawn by, she used tuh deh bout de place playin a ‘holy roller’ but doing devious things pon de side.

But ole people does seh dat nutting does stay in de dark forevah, suh de whole place was in a turmoil when dis woman de get ketch pon de Sideline Dam late wanna dem nights doing a certain forbidden act…!!

Now, me nah know if

yuh can believe dis: Sista Greeta, ovah de years, always holding some village bax-haan hand arrangement and getting some stupid people fuh put dem hard earned dallazs in de project.

But, yuh see when is time fuh de people get deh baxhaan, Sista Greeta coming up with all kinda flimzy stories.

Right now she get Pauleeta and she big son crying every day becawze de people house deh pon falling down and Sista Greeta cyan’t pay de box hand she owe dem since June last year. And some people really gat belly,

Parika Jamboree set to explode!!

ALL Parika is reeling f ro m t h e s h o c k w a v e s created by the anticipation of the Annual Parika Jamboree, being slated tomorrow at the Parika Centre Ground.

This location will explode with much pomp and fanfare as folks from t h e To t o G a s S t a t i o n showcase their event. It will feature a ‘musical mix’ by Slingerz Family, Matrix Sounds, and 71 Sounds Stereo System.

That aside, an exciting live show is to be tabled to feature the likes of popular Character Dancer ‘Granny Ivelaw’ and the exciting Westside Dancehall Queen,

‘Shorttie’.

Parents are urged to bring out the kids in their numbers, since the event is said to be family-oriented and will feature Bouncy Castle, merry-go-round and lots more.

Promoters will also be making a special presentation to the top three students at Parika who excelled in the recent Grade Six Examinations.

Admission to the event is said to be ‘Cool’

23 yeah.

When de people guh fuh deh money, Sista Greeta get de gall fuh cuss out de people and tell dem dat if they cyan’t wait fuh collect de bax haan, deh can bring de police.

Well, both Pauleeta and she son are slackers; because, if was me, I de don slap down Sista Greeta six times in de mud, and ah hymac woulda gat fuh come and dig she out.

Well, she deh bout de place telling ah set ah lies.

She tell de poor people dat she sista borrow de money fuh do ovah she house and she can’t pay it back yet.

Dis woman in she right senses? People pay you deh bax money and you lend it out tuh yuh sista? Gyal look, If was me cash, I de don wade into yuh lakka lumbah truck!!

But all yuh see she wallahing up she mouth deh, good sources seh dat she tek de money and put awn ah concrete front pon she house.

Shame! Shame!! Shame pon dis Sista Greeta fuh she cov-

Owmeghai! Look how dem people ah cry fuh deh money tuh ‘Village Catastrophe’, etousness!!! because dem people planAny yuh know wha? Is ning fuh duh whatevah deh close to one hundred thou- gaffa duh fuh get back deh sand ($100,000) she owe money. de people. Well, eh-eh, she Well, de big showdown know she able… suppose tuh happen dis Yuh talking bout de sang weekend; suh look out fuh ‘Bedroom Bully’? Well, it it live and direct right heah look like dis village now get in de Bombshell!! Ha! Ha! ah ‘Side Dam Bully’; but Ha! Ha! Ha! Haaaa!… Oh dat title may soon change me mama whoy!!!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Lake Mainstay’s 14th Annual Regatta set for Sunday

Aries This is a time to seek allies with common goals. You’re definitely feeling the pressure of larger-than-life circumstances over which you have no control. Try not to see a larger situation as some form of personal oppression. Don’t spend everything you have in pursuit of a short-term objective. Remember that life goes on past the end of the current project or problem, and your stress level will ultimately have no effect on the outcome. Step back, take a deep breath and ease up for a moment.

Taurus Your career could be about to take off. You’re the know-it-all, and for once it could be worth something. Your financial position is strong. Move ahead while your circumstances are still favourable. Invest a little time and energy endearing yourself to the person that might ask the right questions and start spreading the word that you’re available. Associates will listen and respond favourably to a good presentation. You don’t follow the money -- it comes looking for you.

Gemini If you remain calm, cool and collected right now, your performance rating will soar.

You may be paying a price for your independence and uncompromising attitude. You might have joined the wrong team, but it’s too late for regrets. Jump overboard at the first sign of trouble, but think fast once you start swimming. Nobody wants to be at the wheel when the ship goes down. Prove to others that you can be counted on during a crisis.

A scene from last year’s regatta

By Asif Hakim LAKE Mainstay Resort will be hosting its 14th Annual Regatta and Stage Show this Sunday (August 10) at its magnificent fresh water lake on the Essequibo Coast.

The gates will be opened from 09:00 hrs, and regatta commences at 11:00 hrs.

The stage show would commence immediately after the presentation of cash prizes and trophies to the regatta winners.

The package of attractions will see Neil Gonsalves & Team from Pomeroon coming up against Dave Scott & Team from Bartica for the ‘Clash of the Titans’ award.

Fifteen categories of power boat racing will be held as follows: * Two 15HP races of two-lap duration, male/female race * Two 40HP races of three-lap duration, male/ female race * Three 90 HP races of four-lap duration, m a l e / f e male race * Two 200 HP races of five-lap duration, m a l e / f e male race * Three Open HP races of six-lap duration, male/ female race

Friday, August 08, 2014 - 14:30hrs Saturday, August 09, 2014 - 14:30hrs Sunday, August 10, 2014 - 14:30hrs

Along with one 200-metre canoe race for males One 200-metre canoe race for females One 200-metre Open swimming race A Memorial Race in the 90HP category will be held in honour of Orin Bell.

There will be over three million dollars (3M) in cash prizes and trophies to be won in the aforementioned events.

After the daredevil regatta races on the water, the big stage show and beach party will unfold with the following artistes: Big Red, Shelly G, Prince JP, Lyndon Jumbie Jones, Caribbean Hot Shots Band, Pream’s Mega Sounds and Exotic Dancers. There will also be a children’s fun park besides a food court and beverage bars.

Lake Mainstay Resort Regattas have grown over the years, and have gained a reputation for being well organised, disciplined, and attracting the biggest crowds in Guyana over the past two years.

This activity is considered a family event, and its organisers anticipate attendance to be in excess of 8,000 patrons from overseas and locals from across the country, especially the Essequibo Coast, Region 2.

Management promises that this event will be massive and entertaining.

All attending are therefore advised to be early to secure a vantage spot to enjoy the many racing events all day long.

The admission fee is a mere $1000 for adults and $500 for children (U-10); but, at the gate, adults will pay $1200 while children (U-10) will pay $700.

For further information on the regatta and show, individuals are invited to call 226-2975, 771-4959, or 771-4960; or visit Mainstay website at www.lakemainstayresort.biz.

Cancer Big reactions feel good. Your extreme behaviour suggests you may be making up for lost time. You think you’re getting old until something reminds you that your inner child is always a part of you. You might be filled with feelings of innocent wonder. Relive or reinvent your youth. This is not a time to go into hiding. Don’t just remember the joy of making snow angels or sledding with your friends -- get out there and do it!

Leo Celebration begins to slide toward self-destruction if you don’t apply the brakes. Fun is fun, but you may be getting careless. Your body may be sending you a message or two about moderation. Don’t let your jokes get out of hand. People will definitely remember you, but it could be for all the wrong reasons if you don’t tone it down. Replace an old vice with a new habit. Other people have an investment in your continued high performance.

Virgo Playing together is as important as what you produce, so pull together a group of people that are likely to inspire one another to new heights of creativity. Your plans are firmly in place, so it’s time to stop looking ahead and just lose yourself in the moment.

Love can turn anything into a new experience. Events will follow their natural course if you start them off with a friendly little push. Take the initiative in a romantic matter.

Libra If an unresolved issue is holding you back, deal with it and move on. Living in the past is sure to have a negative effect on your future. Even if you have an unhappy history with family members or old acquaintances, you can still find something there to teach and nourish you. Growth may not be easy, but it’s necessary. Take a break from this inner turmoil to work on external beauty. Your home or office could stand a bit of brightening up or redecorating.

Scorpio Information that seems useless at first could end up being crucial, so if you don’t understand something, keep listening. Opposing ideas are not as far apart as you might have imagined. When you’re ready to contribute, your words may not come out right on the first attempt. Try again, with a little more feeling this time. Don’t sell yourself short. Your voice doesn’t have to be loud for your ideas to carry. To those who are really listening, you are the only one worth hearing.

Sagittarius There’s no time like the present to start building your future. Total escape from unpleasantness may not be possible, but do whatever you can. Don’t burn your bridges against imaginary pursuers. The situation is so complex and slow-moving there’s no way to tell whether or not things need fixing at this point in time. Money is a big concern in the current scenario, so set a realistic budget and stick to it religiously. Consider a few cautious investments as well.

Capricorn Nobody works harder than you do, and nobody will complain if you want to take the day off. After all, you can point with pride to an accomplishment (actually many) that could not have happened without you. Think about somewhere special you’d like to go. Treat yourself like royalty for a change. Don’t worry about the future. Past inspiration will help get you started on the next project. Others find your skill and persistence inspiring.

Aquarius You see what’s possible if you’re strong and brave enough to try for it. Ready or not, a new phase of your career is beginning, and you can’t afford to space out. The warnings of others are important, but your own gut has the final say. Resist the temptation to cry wolf once too often -- you may be taxing people and situations that are already strained. Despite your haste, move along in short, careful steps. Grit your teeth and press onward.

Pisces Valuable help comes from unexpected sources today. You’re not yet out of the woods, but you’re seeing more and more patches of clear sky. You are pleasantly shocked by an absence of greed from an old opponent. Someone does you a favour out of the goodness of his or her heart. There’s strength in numbers when you join up with other similarly minded individuals. Use your connections to make things happen.

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Trophy Stall...

Over the years, Sunich and Trophy Stall have been stellar supporters of the endeavours of the Ministry of Tourism and have continued to demonstrate their commitment towards the continued development within the sector.

This inaugural event will feature an exhibition during opening hours and concerts in the evening. The exhibition will showcase craft,

From back page

art, culinary delights, Coney Island, celebrity tents, demonstration tents among others.

Festival components include the Opening Ceremony today from 17:00hrs, featuring an Air Show which also comprises various dramatic performances.

The Festival will continue tomorrow and will feature the Night of Guyana’s Legends - some of Guyana’s stars who contributed to the local music industry.

On Sunday August 10, the Concert Next will be staged along with a National Cookout. This concert will promote the future faces of Guyana’s music industry and help to develop new/young talent.

The likes of Jomo, First Born, Vanilla and local dancehall sensation Jory will take the stage.

Racing Tips

English Musselburgh 09:00 hrs Teruntum Star 09:30 hrs Supreme Occasion 10:00 hrs Gambino 10:30 hrs Red Pike 11:00 hrs Lady Kashaan 11:30 hrs Unex Michelangelo 12:00 hrs Point Of The Toes Brighton 09:10 hrs Mecado 09:40 hrs Crouching Harry 10:10 hrs Soiree D’ete 10:40 hrs Fire Fighting 11:10 hrs Panther Patrol 11:40 hrs Blue Bounty 12:10 hrs Johnny Splash Newmarket 12:40 hrs Guilty 13:10 hrs Ciaras Cookie 13:45 hrs Acaster Malbis 14:15 hrs Joyful Sound 14:50 hrs Water Hole 15:20 hrs Go Far Irish Racing Tips Tipperary 12:35 hrs Folk Law 13:05 hrs Russian Soul 13:35 hrs Tylery Wonder 14:05 hrs Tombelaine 14:40 hrs Looper 15:10 hrs Millington 15:40 hrs Cottesloe South African Racing Tips Fairview 08:40 hrs Frederick Fox 09:15 hrs In A Rush 09:50 hrs Miss Cantona 10:35 hrs Tetelestai 11:10 hrs Sparkling Saphir American Racing Tips Saratoga Race 1 Heir To Dare Race 2 Potthast Race 3 Confrontation Race 4 To Be Determined Race 5 Bella Kateri Race 6 Betweenhereandcool Race 7 Loveisheartandsoul Race 8 A P Johnson Race 9 Bobby’s Kitten

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

Sri Lanka dig in after Pakistan score 451 GALLE, Sri Lanka (Reuters) - Sri Lanka recovered from losing opener Upul Tharanga to reach 99 for one in reply to Pakistan’s 451 at the close on the second day of the first Test yesterday.

Kaushal Silva (38) and Kumar Sangakkara (36) added 75 after Tharanga fell lbw to Junaid Khan for 19.

Sri Lanka off-spinner Dilruwan Perera took the last five Pakistan wickets as the tourists were finally dismissed for 451 in their first innings, anchored by a magnificent 177 from Younus Khan.

The 36-year-old had dealt Perera some harsh treatment in the morning session but the spinner delivered some retribution by dismissing him in the fifth over after lunch.

Younus advanced down the pitch but could only lob an easy catch to Kithuruwan Vithanage at short mid-wicket.

Sarfraz Ahmed (55) was next to fall trying to attack Perera, the right hander’s smash through the leg side going straight

to silly mid-on fielder Angelo Mathews.

That left the tourists on 388-7 with Saeed Ajmal and Abdur Rehman taking Pakistan past 400 before Perera struck again to remove Ajmal for 12 after he flicked a ball to Mahela Jayawardene at leg slip.

Rehman became the fourth Pakistani to record a half-century in the innings with an entertaining knock featuring six fours and a six before he fell for 50, attempting one shot too many as Kumar Sangakkara took a catch at long off.

Perera then ended the innings when Jayawardene held on to another smart catch as Junaid Khan attempted a sweep and the ball grazed his glove.

Perera finished with figures of 5-137 as the hosts fought back after a frustrating morning session where their only breakthrough came with the dismissal of Asad Shafiq for 75.

The right-handed batsman failed to read the arm ball from Rangana Herath and was trapped leg-before.

Scoreboard PAKISTAN 1st innings (o/n: 261-4) K. Manzoor lbw b Prasad 3 A. Shehzad b Prasad 4 Az. Ali b Herath 30 Y. Khan c Vithanage b D. Perera 177 Misbah-ul-Haq c Dickwella b Herath 31 A. Shafiq lbw b Herath 75 S. Ahmed c Mathews b D. Perera 55 A. Rehman c Sangakkara b D. Perera 50 S. Ajmal c M. Jayawardene b D. Perera 12 M. Talha not out 9 J. Khan c M. Jayawardene b D. Perera 0 Extras: (lb-4, nb-1) 5 Total: (all out, 140.5 overs) 451 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-19, 3-56, 4-156, 5-293, 6-359, 7-388, 8-424, 9-451 Bowling: S. Eranga 31-1378-0 (nb-1), D. Prasad 243-81-2, A. Mathews 15-725-0, R. Herath 38-9-116-3, D. Perera 31.5-1-137-5 K. Vithanage 1-0-10-0.

SRI LANKA 1st innings U. Tharanga lbw b J. Khan 19 K. Silva not out 38 K. Sangakkara not out 36 Extras: (b-1, w-5) 6 Total: (for 1 wicket, 34 overs) 99 Fall of wicket: 1-24, Bowling: J. Khan 10-3-38-1, M. Talha 7-3-26-0 (w-1), S. Ajmal 12-4-19-0, A. Rehman 5-0-15-0.

T&T government blamed for not submitting bids for England Test P O R T- O F - S PA I N , Trinidad (CMC)-The Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) has blamed the government after the country missed the deadline to submit a bid to host one of three Tests matches between West Indies and England in the Caribbean next year.

The TTCB has issued a release saying bids were sent to the Prime Minister’s office of the respective countries and not to the territorial boards.

TTCB is complaining that no bids were sent to the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) from the Trinidad government even after it got the WICB to extend the deadline.

“In T&T’s case the TTCB was informed upon enquiry that the PM had directed the documents to the Ministry

of Sport for it to follow up with the bidding,” said the statement from TTCB. “Efforts by the TTCB to reach the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Sport on this matter were futile. The TTCB contacted the WICB to find out if in fact a T&T bid was sent in to which a negative response was received.”

On Monday, the WICB announced that Antigua’s Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Grenada’s National Stadium and Kensington Oval in Barbados, will host the three West Indies Tests against England next April.

“The TTCB asked the WICB to extend the deadline for bid submission and tried to get the Ministry of Tourism to make the bid or at least provide the necessary government’s guarantee which must accompany any

Azzim Bassarath bid being sent by the TTCB,” the statement said.

“The WICB did extend the deadline but no government guarantee was provided to the TTCB. Consequently, no bids were sent in.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

33

Fourth Test at Old Trafford …

Broad runs through India as England take charge MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - England fast bowler Stuart Broad took six wickets to skittle out India for 152 and the hosts finished on 113 for three in reply to take control on an absorbing

Cricket Council’s code of conduct in an incident with India’s Ravindra Jadeja during the first Test.

Gambhir, recalled to the side, was first to go for four when he got a leading edge to

Stuart Broad leads his teammates off the field after finishing with six wickets on the first day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford. opening day of the fourth Test yesterday.

Broad and James Anderson reduced India, who won the toss, to eight for four and only a defiant 71 by the touring side’s captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni saved them from complete collapse with a gripping series level at 1-1.

England lost openers Sam Robson, for six, and Alastair Cook (17) but Gary Ballance and Ian Bell added 77 for the third wicket before Ballance was trapped lbw for 37 by Varun Aaron just before the close.

Bell will resume on 45 not out with nightwatchman Chris Jordan on nought.

“It was a brilliant day and we’re in an extremely strong position, but I must admit I was a little bit disappointed when we lost the toss just on previous knowledge that Australia got 570 batting first here last year, I just assumed it would play like that,” Broad told Sky Sports.

“You saw when the sun came out and the blue sky showed its face it got a bit better for batting so I think we got lucky with the overheads today, but we didn’t get lucky with the skill we produced.

We worked very hard on that and we delivered everything we wanted to,” Broad added.

The start was delayed by half an hour due to overnight rain and Anderson and Broad took advantage of favourable conditions, obtaining prodigious swing to send back Gautam Gambhir, Murali Vijay, Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara in the space of 13 balls.

It was a fine performance on his home Old Trafford ground by Anderson, who was cleared to play after being found not guilty of breaching the International

a full delivery from Broad and the ball flew straight to Joe Root at gully.

PERFECT OUTSWINGER Vijay, on nought, prodded at a perfect outswinger from Anderson and Cook took a straightforward opportunity at first slip.

Two balls later the outof-form Kohli fell in identical fashion for a duck and Pujara drove loosely at a full ball from Broad, Jordan clutching a sharp catch at third slip to leave India in tatters at eight for four.

Dhoni and Ajinkya Rahane stopped the rot with a fighting fifth-wicket partnership of 54 as conditions for batting improved.

But Rahane was out for 24 just before lunch when he drove at a full wide ball from Jordan and Bell took a regulation catch at second slip.

Resuming in the afternoon session on 63 for five, India soon lost Jadeja for a duck, lbw to Anderson.

Dhoni received solid support from Ravichandran Ashwin, however, and the pair added 66 runs in quick time. Ashwin had made 40 when he hooked a short ball from Broad and was well caught by Robson running in from deep square leg.

Dhoni reached fifty with his 11th four but Broad struck again, bowling Bhuvneshwar Kumar for nought.

Chancing his arm, Dhoni hit four more boundaries before heaving Broad straight to Jordan at backward square leg to give the tall fast bowler his fifth wicket.

He then bowled Pankaj Singh, condemning India to equal the world record of six

Scoreboard INDIA 1st innings M. Vijay c Cook b Anderson 0 G. Gambhir c Root b Broad 4 C. Pujara c Jordan b Broad 0 V. Kohli c Cook b Anderson 0 A. Rahane c Bell b Jordan 24 M. Dhoni c Jordan b Broad 71 R. Jadeja lbw b Anderson 0 R. Ashwin c Robson b Broad 40 B. Kumar b Broad 0 V. Aaron not out 1 P. Singh b Broad 0 Extras: (b-10. lb-1. w-1) 12 Total: (all out, 46.4 overs) 152 Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-8, 3-8, 4-8, 5-62, 6-63, 7-129, 8-137, 9-152.

Bowling: J. Anderson 14 -3-46-3, S. Broad13.4-6-25-6, C. Woakes 10-1-43- 0 (w-1), C. Jordan 9-427-1.

ENGLAND 1st innings A. Cook c Singh b Aaron 17 S. Robson b B. Kumar 6 G. Ballance lbw b Aaron 37 I. Bell not out 45 C. Jordan not out 0 Extras (lb-4, nb-2, w-2) 8 Total: (for 3 wickets, 35 overs) 113 Fall of wickets: 1-21, 2-36, 3-113.

Bowling: B. Kumar 9-4-17-1, P. Singh 11-1-50-0, V. Aaron 8-226-2 (nb-2, w-2), R. Ashwin 70-16-0.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday August 08, 2014)

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 0 (2) 57 sixes Today’s Quiz: (1)What is the highest score made by any player in a LCPL semi-final game? Who made it?

(2) Who is the first player to be dismissed ‘stumped’ in a LCPL game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

individual ducks in a Test innings as Broad completed superb figures of six for 25.

Robson, who has struggled in the series, never settled and he was bowled by Kumar offering no stroke to a straight delivery.

Cook, his confidence lifted

by two half-centuries in the third Test, started well but he recklessly hooked a short ball from Aaron and was caught

by Pankaj at deep square leg.

Ballance continued the form which has brought him three centuries in his first six Tests but he was out-thought by

Aaron in the final over to give India a lift after a difficult day.

India made three changes from the side who lost the third Test in Southampton bringing in Gambhir, seamer Aaron and spinner Ashwin.

England named an unchanged team.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

2014 WICB REGIONAL UNDER-19 ONE-DAY TOURNEY

Paul’s blitz hands Guyana third successive win

By Calvin Roberts THANKS to another half-century from 16-yearold Kemo Paul - his third in as many matches - hosts Guyana came away with a five-wicket victory over Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o (T&T) in their third round West Indies Cricket Board Under-19 limited overs fixture at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground yesterday.

Winning the toss and opting to field first in the rain-truncated encounter which saw three and half hours lost, Guyana restricted T&T who were 86 for 2 in the 20th over of the 32 overs aside contest, to 163 for 9.

The twin Island Republic youths were led by Camilio Carimbocas’ 66 (73 balls, 3x4; 2x6), 34 from Amir Jangoo and 22 from Brian Christmas, while off-spinner Shiraz Ramcharran continues to be a thorn in batsmen’s side, picking up 3 for 23 and Damion Waldron 2 for 25.

In reply, the Guyanese, who had earlier claimed their first three-day title win at this level in seven years, saw Paul hit six sixes and three fours in his 67-

Kemo Paul ball 74, backed by an uncharacteristic 41 from Tagenarine Chanderpaul, to coast to 164 for 5 from 28.2 overs, despite Justin Joseph and Akeel Seetal picking up two wickets each.

Asked to bat first, T&T saw Keron Kanhai (14) and Jangoo post 29 for the first wicket, before both Kanhai, who was run-out by a Ramcharran direct hit from backward point, and skipper Jeremy Solozano (0) were dismissed in the eighth over.

Jangoo and Carimbocas repaired the damage with their 59-run third-wicket partnership, during which Jangoo

Samuels superb...

Denesh Ramdin in a partnership of 114 in less than 10 overs to set a superb platform for a mammoth total. Ramdin eventually falling for a 34 ball 51 caught in the covers off the bowling of Tonge.

Guptill made an excellent 90. His innings included six sixes but he never had to take undue risks as some sloppy bowling and short boundaries meant he was able to clear the ropes with ease. Having looked so untroubled his dismissal was a tame one.

He scooped a slower ball from Brathwaite into the waiting hands of the man at short third man. While that could have brought a slowing of the scoring Christopher Barnwell took up the mantle scoring 37 off just 20 balls.

Once again, the one bright light for the Hawksbills with the ball was Sheldon Cottrell. He bowled with pace and aggression as he was the only bowler that consistently found control.

In a move to try and find a decent start with the bat, the Hawksbills began with their fourth opening pair of the tournament with Ben Dunk and David Hussey making it an all Australian affair. Both men were gone inside the Powerplay however as the same issues that have plagued Antigua for the whole of this tournament continued. Dunk fell to an outstanding low catch by Ramdin and Hussey chopped on to his own stumps to see him bowled by Navin Stewart.

From that point onwards it was down to Marlon Samuels to play a lone hand with the experience of Hussey and Dunk gone. Danza Hyatt slightly mistimed an off drive against Veerasammy Permaul that looked to be safe until Jimmy Neesham dived full length and pulled off a magnificent catch when the ball seemed to have passed him. That brought Peters to the crease, and he stood up to be counted in the highest partnership by any side in this year’s tournament.

pulled Waldron for six, while Carimbocas did the same to Paul and later Ronaldo Ali-Mohammed, after posting his half-century.

The partnership was broken when Jangoo got a thick outside edge from Steven Sankar (1 for 25) straight to Ramcharran at backward point at 86 for 3, bringing Christmas to the wicket. He added 57 for the fourth wicket with Carimbocas, whose half-century was achieved during that time, from 64 balls with two fours and one six.

The demise of Carimbocas at 143 for 4 in the 28th over, saw a flow of wickets going down as the visitors stumbled to 161 for 9 four overs later, losing Jameel Manniram (7), Samuel Roopnarine (0), Anderson Phillip (0) and Seetal (0).

When Guyana began their response, Chanderpaul, who is known more for his deft stroke play, struck three massive sixes and two fours in his 32-ball 41, after seeing the demise of Shimron Hetmyer 12 (2x4) and Brian Sattaur 7 (1x6), who were both dismissed by Seetal, after hitting him for boundaries.

Prior to that, they From back page

Peters made his best score in T20 at times outscoring his captain.

Samuels pulled his groin during the innings and that restricted the number of quick singles the batsmen could take but both men were still able to find the boundary regularly. The issue was that they could not accelerate quite enough to chase down the large total.

This was by far the Hawksbills’ best batting performance this tournament with Samuels leading from the front. If their bowling had not been quite so wayward this could well have been their first win. As it was they remain rooted to the bottom of the table.

The Amazon Warriors have kept themselves in touching distance of the leaders with automatic qualification for the final a distant yet realistic hope.

The fact that Sunil Narine was back in their ranks will only increase those chances.

watched in awe as Chanderpaul nonchalantly eased Phillip into the top tier of the old Media Stand for his first six, followed by two more over wide long on off Roopnarine and Joseph respectively, before he holed out to Kanhai at deep midwicket off Joseph at 69 for 3.

Paul and Ashkay Homraj (20) were Guyana’s last game heroes and yesterday they repeated such action, by adding a rapid 49 from 10.3 overs, before Homraj cut Christian straight to Carimbocas at point, at 118 for 4.

Enter Ali-Mohammed who was an innocent bystander at the non-striker’s end, as Paul tore into Christmas and struck him for 4, 6, 6 off successive deliveries in the 24th over, posting his 50 from 60 balls with three fours and the same number of sixes.

He got three more sixes off Tevin Jadoo and Roopnarine, before he was bowled by Joseph with victory one run away in the 28th over, allowing Ali-Mohammed (5*) and Ramcharran (0*) to complete the win he set up with his blistering innings that started sedately.

Jamaica crush ICC Americas by seven wickets Jamaica registered a crushing win over ICC Americas in third round matches of the Regional –Under 19 One-Day Championships yesterday.

Playing at the the Everest ground, an impressive four wicket haul from Ramaal Lewis demolished the ICC batting as they crumbled for 123 in 23.2 overs, and crashed to their third straight defeat.

Lewis finished with 4 for 18 while Oshane Thomas picked up 2 for 23 in the rain shortened fixture.

Jamaica coasted to victory reaching 126 for three in 22 overs on the efforts of an unbeaten 49 from Mark Parchment and 39 each from Odaine McCatty and Shahid Crooks.

At Enmore Recreation Ground, rain forced abandonment without a ball bowled in the match between Leeward Islands and Windward Islands. (CMC)

Regional Under-19 Scoreboards Guyana vs T&T T&T UNDER-19s (32 overs maximum) K. Kanhai run out 14 +A. Jangoo c Ramcharran b Sankar 34 *J. Solozano lbw b Baldeo 0 C. Carimbocas lbw b Ramcharran 66 B. Christmas c wkpr Savory b Waldron 22 J. Manniram c Mohammed b Ramcharran 7 S. Roopnarine c Hetmyer b Ramcharran 0 A. Phillip c Ramcharran b Waldron 0 J. Joseph not out 2 A. Seetal run out 0 T. Jadoo not out 1 Extras (w15, lb1, b1) 17 TOTAL (9 wkts, 32 overs) 163 Fall of wickets: 1-29, 2-29, 3-86, 4-143, 5-157, 6-157, 7-159, 8-161, 9-161 Bowling: #Paul 6-0-43-0, Baldeo 7-0-21-1, Ramcharran 7-0-27-3, Sankar 6-0-25-1, Waldron 3-0-25-2, #AliMohammed 3-0-20-0 GUYANA (target: 164 off 32 overs) S. Hetmyer c Kanhai b Seetal 12 T. Chanderpaul c Kanhai b Joseph 41 *B. Sattaur c Joseph b Seetal 7 K. Paul b Joseph 74 A. Homraj c Carimbocas b Christmas 20 R. Ali-Mohammed not out 5 S. Ramcharran not out 0 Extras (w5) 5 TOTAL (5 wkts, 28.2 overs) 164 +K. Savory, B. Baldeo, S. Sankar, D. Waldron did not bat Fall of wickets: 1-37, 2-45, 3-69, 4-118, 5-163 Bowling: #Phillip 2-0-23-0, Roopnarine 6.2-1-30-0, #Seetal 4-0-32-2, Jadoo 6-0-34-0, Joseph 7-1-20-2, Christmas 3-0-25-1 Points: Guyana Under-19s 6, T&T Under-19s 0.2 Jamaica vs ICC Americas

ICC AMERICAS (24 overs maximum)

A. Dore lbw b Burnett 13 V. Altekar c Lugg b Thomas 3 +A. Khan c wkpr Morris b Lewis 15 N. Dutta c Lewis b Burnett 2 O. Bascome run out 12 A. Kapoor c Smith b Thomas 33 Farhan Malik b Henry 2 *D. Rawlings c Henry b Smith 14 A. Buch st Morris b Lewis 9 K. Phill c and b Lewis 3 M. Simmons not out 1 Extras (b2, lb2, w11, nb1) 16 TOTAL (all out, 23.4 overs) 123 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-22, 3-35, 4-41, 5-56, 6-61, 7-92, 8-111, 9-122 Bowling: #Henry 5-0-28-1, #Thomas 5-2-232, Lewis 4.4-0-18-4, #Smith 5-0-33-1, Burnett 4-0-17-1 JAMAICA (target: 124 off 24 overs) L. Lugg c Bascome b Farhan Malik 22 O. McCatty b Bascome 39 M. Parchment not out 49 S. Crooks c Farhan Malik b Bascome 3 +R. Morris not out 6 Extras (b2, lb2, w1, nb2) 7 TOTAL (3 wkts, 22 overs) 126 *R. Lewis, N. Walters, R. Burnett, O. Smith, G. Henry, O. Thomas did not bat Fall of wickets: 1-45, 2-77, 3-83 Bowling: Farhan Malik 5-1-14-1, #Khan 2-021-0, Rawlings 5-0-31-0, Dutta 5-0-17-0, #Bascome 4-0-34-2, Buch1-0-5-0 Points: Jamaica Under-19s 6.4, ICC Americas Under-19s 0.2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday August 8, 2014

35

St Clair pays courtesy call on Kumar … does same with Lumumba and Westford

By Calvin Roberts AMIDST a slight drizzle on a glorious Wednesday morning, New South Wales, Australia-based two-time world champion Gairy ‘Superman’ St Clair paid a courtesy call on Director of Sport within the National Sports Commission (NSC) Neil Kumar, at his Middle Street office.

The 39-year-old St Clair was accompanied by two of his three daughters in 18-year old Khadija and 14-year-old Janessa, while he proudly walked with his two championship belts, which were later displayed by Kumar for a photo opportunity.

Prior to doing so, both Kumar and St Clair relived those epic moments in the boxer’s career, with Kumar showering praise on St Clair for his steely resistance to the numerous obstacles he faced early on in his life and

career, to become the man he is today.

“I felt honoured and at the same time jubilant this morning, when Gairy walked into my office with his two belts on his shoulders and his daughters by his side. I must say that seeing him with his daughters emphasised the strong family commitments in the man for which I am happy to have shared this morning.

“I am very happy that he (Gairy) can recognise the fact that he came from a very humble background, reached the pinnacle of the sport he chose to compete in to the extent that he became a double world champion and is back today to say thanks to those who assisted him,” said Kumar.

Recalling that moment in 1994 when St. Clair, Andre ‘Stone’ Purlette and Guyana’s first world champion in former World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight

`Teach Them Young’ evaluation cycle programme set for tomorrow N AT I O N A L c y c l e coach Hassan Mohamed will conduct an evaluation nine-race cycle programme tomorrow in the National Park beginning at 09:00hrs.

According to Mohamed, while it will be an evaluation for the young cyclists attending his eight-week `Teach Them Young’ programme, other schoolboys, novices and other interested cyclists can also participate in the nine-race programme which is being sponsored by the National Sports Commission.

T h e f e a t u re e v e n t will be a 35-lap race for schoolboys and novices, while there will also be two five-lap races for veterans - one for veterans under 45 years of age and the other for veterans over 45 years.

A five-lap event is also on for mountain bikers.

Juveniles will compete over 10 laps, while there will be three-lap races for BMX boys 9-12 years old and two-lap races for BMX boys and girls 6-9 years old.

Albert Philander is the defending champion for the 35-lap schoolboys and novices event. Last year he returned a winning time of one hour 35 minutes 0.1 second.

Alonzo Ambrose won last year’s juvenile 10lap race in a time of 26 minutes 04.15 seconds, while Junior Niles won last year’s veterans Under-45 five-lap race in 13 minutes 26 seconds. Keon Thomas will be defending the mountain bike category. He won last year in 18 minutes 18.7 seconds.

Director of Sport Neil Kumar will witness the day’s activity as well as present the prizes to the respective winners.

Congrats Gairy! Keep the flag flying high. These were the words uttered to two-time world boxing champion Gairy St Clair (right) who paid a courtesy call on Director of Sport Neil Kumar at his Middle Street office last Wednesday.

champion Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis were going to the United States of America, a smiling Kumar said he felt honoured to accompany them to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

“My wife and I assisted this trio of young boxers in a generous way and whilst accompanying them to the airport, I learnt that they were unaware of their place of abode in the USA, for which I called the then Consular General in New York and had him take care of them amicably well.

“In fact, they were so pleased with that, that a few years later when I visited the United States of America, these boxers wanted to repay me for the kindness I offered them, for which I declined, while urging them to continue working hard and making their country proud,” stated Kumar.

He added, “Having said such, I must say once again,

that I am pleased to see Gairy return today to say thanks to those who assisted him in whatever way possible, even as he himself is looking to give back to the young boxers of this country, his time, knowledge and help in whatever way he chooses to do so.”

A humble St Clair, whose ring record reads 46-(18 KOs)-12-2, and who later in the day paid a similar visit to Presidential Adviser on Youth Empowerment Odinga Lumumba and Minister of Public Service Jennifer Westford, thanked Kumar for all his unflinching support.

“What you have done for me during my early days of my career is immeasurable and I just wish to say thanks for everything from the depths of my heart, even as I strive to continue being better not only for myself, but my kids and fellow countrymen,” said Sinclair.

GFF announces ambitious plans for remainder of year

By Michael DaSilva THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has announced some ambitious plans for the remainder of 2014, beginning with the Golden Arrowhead Cup which is set for a September kick-off and will culminate with The Nations Cup. Speaking exclusively with Chronicle Sport on Tuesday, the Federation’s president Christopher Matthias explained that the Arrowhead Cup will involve approximately 90 teams drawn from its (GFF) eight affiliates – Georgetown Football Association, West Demerara Football Association, Upper Demerara Football Association, Berbice Football Association, Bartica Football Association, East Bank Football Association, Essequibo Football Association, and East Demerara Football Association.

The eight associations will first run off individual competitions and the top two teams from each of the associations will then

advance to the Nations Cup which will culminate on January 1 with the third place play-off and final.

Asked if the Nations Cup final will not clash with the annual Kashif and Shanghai tournament, Matthias told Chronicle Sport that the Kashif and Shanghai organisation has to date, not made any application for the staging of their annual tournament.

Apart from the Golden Arrowhead Cup, the National Premier League will also commence next month and will involve 16 teams.

He said the four teams that placed at the bottom of the table in the 2013/14 Banks Beer National Premier League will be relegated and will be replaced by four other teams.

The four teams that will be relegated are: Santos and BV/ Triumph who finished with 17 points each, along with Mahaica Determinators and Young Achievers who ended the league with 15 and three points respectively.

The GFF boss said the aforementioned teams will

Christopher Matthias

be replaced by teams that finished as top performers in their respective associations Division One competition.

Questioned about when the top performers of the 2013/14 League will be rewarded for their efforts, Matthias said the GFF has already written the sponsors (Banks DIH Limited) informing them about the outcome of the tournament and are currently awaiting word from the beverage `giant’ as to when Banks DIH will be ready to hand over the prizes to the respective winners.

Alpha `The Hammer’

United ended at the top of the points table with 45 points from 15 wins in as many games, while Guyana Defence Force finished second with 35 points from 10 victories, three drawn games and two losses.

Matthias told Chronicle Sport when the eight associations met with the GFF one week ago at the GFF headquarters to discuss plans for the remainder of the year, Georgetown Football Association’s General Secretary Odinga Lumumba suggested that the top two teams from the 2013/14 National Premier League be automatic qualifiers for the Nations Cup and this was agreed on by all present, meaning Alpha United and GDF will not have to qualify from the Golden Arrowhead Cup to be a part of the 16 teams that will contest the Nation’s Cup. The other competitions which are also expected to get under way this year are: Inter Sub-Associations Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, Under-21 and Under-23 tournaments.

Sport CHRONICLE

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St Clair pays courtesy call on Kumar See Story on page 35

Trophy Stall on board with Guyana Festival … sponsors T20 Cricket and Football winning trophies KNOWN for his generosity along with having a die-hard passion for sports, Ramesh Sunich, proprietor of Trophy Stall, threw his support behind the inaugural Guyana Festival T20 Cricket and Football matches.

Set for the Guyana National Stadium on Sunday, August 10, the T20 Cricket match will feature some of the brightest stars of the game rubbing shoulders with those of yester-

year. Bowl-off time is 16:00hrs.

From 19:00 hrs, Slingerz Football Club, one of Guyana’s top teams, will collide with the Guyana Defence Force.

Minister of Tourism Irfaan Ali received the trophies on behalf of the Guyana Festival and thanked Sunich for his involvement in what he believes will be a memorable event.

Turn to page 31

Trophy Stall’s Ramesh Sunich (left) presents the trophies to Minister of Tourism Irfaan Ali.

Samuels superb century not enough to give Hawkbills victory …Amazon Warriors register highest toltal in CPL history A superb hundred from the Antigua Hawksbills captain Marlon Samuels was not enough to prevent his side succumbing to their eighth defeat in the Limacol Caribbean Premier League in their match against the Guyana Amazon Warriors last evening at Warner Park. . Samuels played through a leg injury to score a magnificent 106 runs from 53 balls, the fastest century in CPL history. Having been set 213 runs to win, it was always a big ask for the misfiring Antiguan side, but they fought all the way until the end.

Samuels was well supported by Orlando Peters but it was always an uphill task after the Hawksbills bowlers were smashed around the Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

small but picturesque Warner Park ground.

The Amazon Warriors scored the highest innings total in CPL history and the second highest in all T20 in the Caribbean as a quick pitch with true bounce played into the hands of attacking batsmen.

A wicket maiden from Gavin Tonge in the second over of the Amazon Warriors innings represented an excellent start from the Hawksbills. The Guyana danger man Lendl Simmons was the man to go, but from that point onwards there was not much joy for the bowlers as the Warriors pushed the run rate up to and then over ten.

The eighth over was the point where any control was lost for the Hawksbills

as Miguel Cummins had an absolute horror show.

His first four deliveries were no balls as he conceded 19 runs by the time he had bowled the first legal delivery.

A fifth no ball took the over to 11 deliveries but Cummins actually improved greatly in the second half of the over conceding just four more runs. What it did mean was that he was not called on again to bowl and his allocation had to be found from elsewhere.

The remarkable thing about the Amazon Warriors was not the fact that they scored so many runs so quickly it was that they did it with so little fuss. Martin Guptill combined with Turn to page 34 FRIDAY, AUGUST 8, 2014