Caribbean Times International by Gytimes

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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ISSUE NO. 116

CANADA EDITION

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WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

Canada in full support of Guyana’s HIV/AIDS fight G

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Canadian High Commissioner Dr. Nicole Giles has lauded Guyana’s strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, highlighting the collaboration between the Guyanese government and its partners including Canadian companies. She also outlined the work of Canada’s government to stem the pandemic not only in Guyana, but worldwide through which focus has been on developing an affordable and globally accessible HIV vaccine. Speaking recently at the

Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/ AIDS (GBCHA) Dinner and Awards in Georgetown, Dr Giles noted that since 2009, there has been a continuing reduction in new cases of HIV and AIDS in Guyana. “This is attributable to the hard work of the national programme on combating HIV and AIDs, partners like the GBCHA, and other dedicated organisations in Guyana,” she related, adding that: “this is a hard fought victory in an area where victories are all too rare, and is great news for all stakeholders whose commitment has made this a reality.” Story continued on Page 2

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr. Nicole Giles addressing the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS (GBCHA) Dinner and Awards in Georgetown last Saturday

Barbados gov’t lobbies Canada for jobs Page 16

Page 7

The Caribbean Children Foundation donates Cdn$50, 000 to Herbie Fund Jay Brijpaul of The Caribbean Children Foundation (TCCF) and Brij Real Estate team at Remax West (third from left) shares a special moment with representatives of the Herbie Fund just after Brijpaul presented them with a Cdn$50, 000 donation (Photo courtesy of TCCF)

TT students win Nasa scholarships Page 23

NEWS

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Canada in full support of Guyana’s HIV/AIDS fight from front page

Private sector role

Noting that the largest number of persons living with HIV/AIDs is of the productive age, the Canadian envoy stressed the role of businesses in combating the spread of the disease. “Infected persons are often the bread winners within their households,” Dr Giles observed, adding: “this has an enormous impact on sustainable economic development, and affects the bottom line operations of companies in many ways.” It has therefore become necessary, she continued, for companies to rethink how they can deploy their human resource

The awardees are all smiles after collecting their plaques

strategies

Olivia Brown receives the certificate on behalf of the NEW GPC

support

their employees’ health and families. Commenting on the involvement of the private sector in the HIV/ AIDS fight in Guyana, she mentioned: “I am therefore proud to acknowledge the leadership role that Canadian companies are playing in combatting this pandemic in Guyana and mitigating its affects.” She highlighted that “Canadian companies such as Scotiabank, The Guyana Lottery Company, and Guyana Goldfields, among others, are strong support-

ers of the national programme to combat the spread of HIV and AIDs in Guyana.”

Canada’s support

Turning her attention to the government of Canada’s role in tackling the scourge, she indicated that the North American country has made the prevention and treatment of HIV/ AIDS a key component of its international development assistance because it recognises the seriousness of the epidemic, and its impact on sustainable economic development, good governance and most of all people around the world. “Canada is at the forefront of the global response to HIV/AIDS and recognises the need to increase efforts to achieve universal access to HIV prevention measures, treatment, and care. That is why the fight against HIV/AIDS is one of the main components of our children and youth strategy,” the Canadian envoy told the Guyanese gathering. She explained that “as part of the government of Canada health

programmes, and through the G8 Muskoka Initiative on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, we help partner countries deliver integrated and comprehensive health services to women and children, including HIV testing and counselling, and prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.” The Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Development, she mentioned too, is working with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on the Canadian HIV Vaccine Initiative to help develop an affordable and globally accessible HIV vaccine. This interventional, Dr Giles highlighted “represents a significant Canadian contribution to global efforts to develop a safe, effective, affordable and globally accessible HIV vaccine.” Additionally, the Canadian government supports the development of an HIV vaccine by advancing basic science, developing regulation, and building the capacity for conducting

clinical trials in low and middle-income countries.

Awards

Meanwhile, Radio Guyana Inc (RGI) Announcer Richard Pitman and the NEW GPC INC were among individuals and companies awarded for their contributions to fighting HIV/AIDS in Guyana. Pitman’s award was in honour of his outstanding work in the media to promote HIV/ AIDS awareness and the reduction of stigma and discrimination, while the Farm, East Bank Demerara-based NEW GPC’s award lauded its efforts in the fight against the pandemic at the workplace. Awards were also presented to Edward B Beharry and Company Ltd for the Workplace Programme and their Peer Educator Rohini Ramkumar; Scotiabank for the Community Investment and Workplace Programme Categories and; Jannis London of Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited for Advocacy and Leadership.

RGI Announcer Richard Pitman (left) receives his award from Banks DIH Media Manager Troy Peters

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EDITORIAL

Trinidad’s Independence

hen Guyanese think of the Trinidad experience, including its independence, they cannot help but compare and contrast it to their own during the same time period. Trinidad, after all, like the then British Guiana, had arrived late into the British Empire – during the latter’s struggle with Napoleonic France at the beginning of the 19th Century. Both had inherited Crown Colony Government early, and in addition to similar constitutional developments, both imported large numbers of East Indians following the abolition of slavery in 1834 to create “plural societies”. After World War II, their histories continued to converge when the Moyne Commission’s war-delayed recommendations for the gradual introduction of universal franchise were introduced in both countries. Up to 1950, their electorates were quite fragmented as the British expanded the poll – still dominated, however, by the middle class. In Trinidad, the entry of Dr Eric Williams into the political arena in 1956 was pivotal in the creation of modern Trinidad – and its marked differences with Guyana’s political history. An Oxford-educated island scholar, Williams returned to Trinidad in 1948 as a member of the Caribbean Research Council of the U.S.-Britishsponsored Caribbean Commission. Even though his thesis for his PhD at Oxford (later published as the seminal “Capitalism and Slavery” took a Marxist analytic slant, Williams was no doctrinaire Marxist as was Dr Cheddi Jagan in Guyana. He had also participated prominently in the Pan-African Congress at Manchester in 1945, in which several future leaders of Africa and the Caribbean participated. He had a firm grasp of what he wanted for an independent Trinidad. Williams threw himself into cultural, educational, and semi-political activities and became quite popular. In 1956, he decided to formally enter politics and launched a political party, the People’s National Movement (PNM). Dominated by the local African middle class, its support base was enthusiastically African. The British had already decided to move towards the formation of a Federation of the West Indies, which, unlike Jagan, Williams supported. Even though Williams did not have a clear majority, the British Governor used his nominated members of the Assembly to give Williams a two-thirds majority, and make impotent the Indian-dominated Democratic Labour Party (DLP). Williams was a clear favourite of the British. In the Federal Elections of 1958, the PNM lost to the Opposition DLP, but was not deterred since Williams focused on building support in Trinidad. Cabinet g TT’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar shares a light moment with citizens during the country’s recent Independence Day parade in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad (FB photo) overnment was given to the PNM and most crucially, the U.S. was persuaded in 1960 – with Williams negotiating equally with the U.S. and Britain – to give up its military base at Chaguaramas .This allowed Williams to claim a great nationalistic victory. In the elections of 1962, Williams’ PNM won resoundingly and after Jamaica pulled out of the Federation in the same ear, Williams made his famous “ten minus one equals zero” assessment of the status of the Federation. Trinidad and Jamaica, the latter under the “safe” leadership of Alexander Bustamante, gained independence. In Guyana, on the other hand, after the PPP won the 1961 elections, the promised independence was “deferred” to acilitate the removal of the government via CIA-instigated riots. As in Trinidad, the political parties were split along ethnic lines, but in Guyana the political struggles between the two major groups – Indian and African Guyanese – spilled over into violence. This added an intensity to political mobilisation in Guyana that was never present in Trinidad, even though the PNM ruled Trinidad continuously for 30 years between 1956 and 1986. The PNC of Forbes Burnham also changed the political climate in Guyana with his 1980 Constitution, which created an Executive President, with dictatorial powers. It should be of some interest that in Trinidad, while there have been calls for that island to adopt the Executive Presidency, until last week there had been no major constitutional change affecting the electoral system. Trinidad will now have “run-offs” in its constituency-based elections.

Guyana’s President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and other Cabinet members join in an indigenous dance with the Surama Dance Group of Rupununi, Region Nine during the launch of Amerindian Heritage Month in Guyana on Monday, September 1, 2014 (GINA photo)

PM Kamla urges citizens to embrace change

- as TT marks 52nd Independence Anniversary

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRIIDAD: The twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobago celebrated its 52nd anniversary of independence from Britain with Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar asking citizens to embrace change. Trinidad and Tobago gained its independence from Britain on August 31, 1962. In her message to the nation, the Prime Minister said Independence allows an opportunity to embrace change and pointed to the government’s recent proposals towards Constitutional reform. “The passion, interest and dialogue elicited by my government’s proposals for Constitutional reform have been unprecedented, clearly negating the view that our citizens are lukewarm on matters of national governance.” She said while there will always be dissenting voices on issues of political reform, economic thrust or social policy, democracy allows for “reasoned debate and a multiplicity of views.” “As citizens of an independent, democratic nation, we have the responsibility to ensure that in the practice of our democracy, each and every citizen holds the right to determine how they are governed and by whom. We cannot allow fear and intimidation to impede the progress of our nation,” she added. “In 2014, fifty-two years later, we have again displayed the confidence in ourselves and the temerity to forge a new political path. We now have greater power to choose the representatives, best suited to serve and service the needs of community and country.” She said that all sectors must play a role in the sustainable development of the country as citizens possess the “skills, intellect and talent to achieve every goal and task that we set ourselves.”

TT’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar shares a light moment with citizens during the country’s recent Independence Day parade in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad (FB photo)

Not business as usual

The Prime Minister indicated that it is not business as usual. “My government understands that expectations are high among our citizenry in all aspects of national life. Areas of health, personal and national security, governance, job and wealth creation all dominate the national psyche. I give you the assurance that in our policies, programmes and projections; my government will continue to seek the best interests of all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. Let us together make this 52nd Independence Anniversary a celebration which signalled the dawn of a new stewardship of our great nation,” she urged. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley urged the nation to reflect on the journey since Independence. “As a young developing nation, Trinidad and Tobago has come a long way. We have experienced the proverbial highs and lows along the way. However, through it all, our people have

demonstrated formidable will and strong resilience, with the ability to work together to overcome challenges. “Our dedication to our democratic rights and freedoms serves as the cornerstone upon which our nation is built. Trinidad and Tobago was, is and will always be forged from the love of liberty.” Rowley said that as the country faced what was seen by many as an interference with fundamental democratic principles, he remained confident that the majority of the people of TT are “right-thinking and are ready, willing and able to work steadfastly towards a better, brighter future.” He added “at this independence time, even as we face what many see as interference with fundamental democratic principles I continue to have confidence in the people of our young nation. I still hold out that the majority of us are rightthinking and are ready, willing and able to work steadfastly towards a better, brighter future.”

WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

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Barbados mulls gun amnesty

- amidst increased gun crimes

Barbados’ Attorney General and Home Affairs Minister Adriel Brathwaite (Barbados Today photo)

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Barbadian authorities are giving consideration to introducing a gun amnesty in a bid to get illegal firearms off the streets and reduce gun crimes. Attorney General and Minister of Home Affairs Adriel Brathwaite made the disclosure Monday evening, two days after police reported a 21 percent increase in homicides. He said the issue of a gun amnesty was discussed just last week with acting Commissioner of Police Tyrone Griffith and other officials and a decision would be made soon

on whether the measure would be introduced. “There is a school of thought that gun amnesties don’t work. Others say that we should [have it]. I have said that I’ll have someone do the research and make a determination,” the minister said while appearing on CBC TV’s ‘People’s Business’. “We’d have to make a decision based on experience to determine whether or not we should have an amnesty. That having been said, if someone brings in an illegal firearm we would naturally have to test it to see whether or not it has been used in a crime and, in particular, in a mur-

der.” Last week, acting commissioner Griffith revealed that males in the 15 to 29 age group were responsible for the majority of gun crimes committed this year. The police chief also reported that so far this year 30 illegal firearms have been seized and 20 people charged in connection with those seizures. Even though Brathwaite acknowledged that the Top Cop has requested additional resources to help fight crime, he insisted that lawmen have proven they have a handle on the situation given the number of cases that have been solved so far. Griffith had reported that 84 percent of homicides this year have been solved. “You will see by virtue of the success that we’ve had, not only in the reduction of crime overall but in terms of solving many of the murders we’ve been able to solve, there’s no indication, as far as I’m aware, of the police being outgunned or outmanned,” Brathwaite said. “I’m advised that if all goes well we should have a class of recruits

starting in the middle of September, probably about 50 police officers,” he added. The minister went on

to credit the “hard work by the police” for the 16 percent drop in overall crime, stating: “The police are doing a tre-

mendous job crimes. It’s a to their hard dedication.” Today)

in solving testament work and (Barbados

Caribbean diaspora in Toronto reaches out to Antigua

Antigua and Barbuda’s Consul General in Toronto Ann-Marie Layne (left) recently accepted a donation of gently-used mobility aids valued at approximately Cdn$8,500, made possible by Krishendath and Dhanmatie Roopnarine, members of the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora living in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) (A&B gov’t photo)

Guyana authorities probe several housing scams

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : G u y a n a ’ s Housing and Water Ministry on Tuesday warned against the illegal sale of land. According to the Housing Ministry, several scams have been unearthed in recent days, positing that investigations are currently being conducted. It warned that persons who are involved in scams of this nature are equally culpable, since they have willingly participated in these illegal activities and must have known that the transactions could not have been authentic. “We would like to urge the members of the public to report any case in which they would have paid or were requested to pay or enter into any transaction in relation to any business of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).” Persons are being reminded that the Housing Authority is the only authorised agency responsible for the allocation and receipt of payments with respect to house lots purchased from the

Authority, for which official receipts are issued. “No one is authorised to collect money for house lots on behalf of the Central Housing and Planning Authority. All transactions related to house lots are conducted at the Central

Guyana’s Housing Minister Irfaan Ali

Housing and Planning Authority’s offices. No official business with the Authority is conducted in the field or at private premises,” the ministry emphasised. There, the transfer of any lot bought from the Housing Authority must be approved in keeping with the terms and conditions of the Agreement of Sale. Unauthorised or illegal transactions would not be recognised by the Housing Authority.

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Guyana to draw down Gy$9.2 billion from EU The Caribbean Children Foundation G donates Cdn$50,000 to Herbie Fund EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The European Union (EU) has signed off €339 million in Developmental Programmes for 21 African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of Countries, with Guyana receiving €34 million (Gy$9,184,523,567) On Tuesday, the European Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs and Country Representatives from the 21 ACP Countries, co-signed the National Indicative Programmes (NIP) under the 11th European Development Fund in Apia (Samona). The approved €339 million will be utilised for developmental programmes during the period 2014-2020. Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett signed on behalf of the government of Guyana during the ceremony, which took place on the margins of the United Nations Third International Conference on Small Islands Developing States. Guyana’s allocation will be channelled towards climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction which includes sea defences. Antigua and

Guyanese Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett and European Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs after the signing of Guyana’s NIP

Barbuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Jamaica, and St. Lucia were among the other Caribbean countries that signed the agreement, in addition to 10 Pacific territories: Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Timor Leste, Tonga, and Tuvalu; and one African country: Cape Verde. “Today’s signatures mark the official go-ahead to continue strengthening our development cooperation with thee concerned

countries. These documents lay down the priorities for our joint work for the next seven years and will allow us to move ahead with the preparations of the concrete projects and programmes,” Commissioner Piebalgs said during the signing ceremony. He added, “For the European Union it is essential that our programmes are drawn up in close cooperation with our partner countries, based on governments’ own policies and strategies and reflecting their stated needs. This is how we ensure that programming documents really support areas where the

EU can add value.” The establishment of NIP is a critical step taken by the EU to offer assistance to ACP countries. In 2013, EU Member States agreed that €30.5 billion was needed for developmental cooperation among 78 ACP Countries under the 11th European Development Fund during the financial period 2014-2020. The NIPs that have been signed are clear indications of the EU’s strategy and priorities in each particular country. These preparations are done in close cooperation with the partner countries so as to ensure that NIPs support national priorities and reflect the local context. This is in line with the EU’s vision for future development cooperation, the “Agenda for Change”, which calls for resources to be targeted where they are most needed and can be the most effective. It is anticipated that by 2015, the remaining NIPs will be finalised and signed. However, work on preparing concrete projects and programmes has commenced in all of the countries. (Guyana Times)

Barbados gets boost from Canadian fashion design institution

here, for this generous donation to the Polytechnic, and we look forward to working closely with other Canadian colleges in making the Polytechnic a better place to train our people,” Belle further commented. (Barbados Advocate)

Principal of the SJPP Hector Belle, examines the recently donated fashion and design mannequin, along with Chandie Alleyne, acting Head of the Division of Human Ecology and SJPP’s Deputy Principal, Henderson Cadogan (Barbados Advocate photo)

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Students of the Barbados-based Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic (SJPP) undertaking studies in garment technology are now better equipped to carry out their training, with the donation of a professional fashion and design, dress form mannequin, valued at Bds$1500, from a top Canadian fashion design institution. SJPP’s Principal Hector Belle told Barbadian media that the donation of the fashion training mannequin was made possible thanks

to the Caricom Education for Employment (C-EFE) Programme, a Cdn$20 million programme sponsored by Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (DFATD) and implemented by Colleges and Institutes Canada. Belle explained that it was back in January 2014 that he met with Denise Amyot, President and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada, along with the SJPP’s Deputy Principal, Henderson Cadogan, and Calvin Piggott of the Canadian High Commission in

Barbados, to facilitate a tour of the SJPP and to learn more about the benefits of the C-EFE Programme. Following the meeting, he said further efforts were made leading up to the donation of the mannequin which arrived in Barbados on August 18th. “Since this has been donated to us, we can now reduce the cost (of the programme) and this will be reflected in the fees that we charge our students. So we are very grateful to the Colleges and Institutes Canada and the government of Canada, through their High Commission

O R O N T O , C A N A D A : The Caribbean Children Foundation (TCCF) recently participated in the ‘Walk For Children’ event during which it also donated Cdn$50, 000 towards the Herbie Fund. The Herbie Fund works in collaboration with SickKids Hospital to provide the highest quality life-saving or life-altering surgeries to children who do not have access to such services in their home countries. Very similar to the TCCF’s mandate, the Herbie Fund has helped over 702 children in over 105 countries around the world. TCCF Board Member

Jay Brijpaul of the Brij Real Estate team at Remax West presented the donation. Since TCCF was started in 2000, it has helped over 67 children get the care they need. The Fund has so far raised and paid out over Cdn$1.3 million towards the cause. Its primary health care partner is the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children, but the charter allows TCCF to seek care for the children it helps at other institutions. In the past, TCCF has worked with a number of hospitals in Toronto, the USA and even Trinidad and Tobago to get children to the care they require.

Relative of PM Browne shot dead in Antigua

T . J O H N ’ S , ANTIGUA: Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s 18-year-old nephew was gunned down at about 8:45 Monday night while hanging out with friends in the Point area. Albert “Pressureman” Browne, son of Glen Browne was shot multiple times in Boobey Alley, residents on the scene reported. The dead teen’s father said his son, who is the 10th person killed so far this year, went to the

area about an hour before being shot to death. “I came over to Point after him and was sitting around the corner near the alley when I heard the shots. I got up and went to check, and saw him lying on the ground in the alley. He never said anything to me,” the father reported. He said his son was shot in the chest, and he had no idea who did it or why. The teen resided in Villa with his father. (Antigua Observer)

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Grenada and St. Lucia in top 10 countries where people drink the most booze

No Ebola in TT

E N E V A , SWITZERLAND: The World Health Report has released the results of its 15-year global alcohol consumption survey, and two Caribbean nations– Grenada (#5) and St. Lucia (#9)– appear in the top ten countries ranked by per capita consumption. The Bahamas is #22. The per capita yearly pure alcohol consumption in Grenada is 12.4 litres; in other words, researchers looked at all the different drinks people consume solely in terms of their alcohol content, which eliminates differences between wine, beer and spirits. That works out to between three and four drinks per person every single day. According to Caribbean News Now senior correspondent, Grenadian Marcia Braveboy, the culture of intoxication there began after Hurricane Ivan hit on September 7, 2004. “As the first journalist on the ground at the time, it was a heartbreaking experience. One could have cut the sense of trauma with a knife, so palpable was

P The per capita yearly pure alcohol consumption in Grenada is 12.4 litres

the shock and fear people exuded,” she recalled. Hurricane Ivan had a debilitating effect on the people at the time and it seemed that developing illnesses accelerated under the heightened stresses brought on by the storm. “It does not surprise me that there may have been other hidden side-effects of Hurricane Ivan on the people of Grenada,”

Braveboy added. St. Lucia comes not far behind Grenada with 11.6 litres per capita yearly pure alcohol consumption and The Bahamas at 10.34 litres per capita yearly. The United States doesn't crack the top 25, coming in at number 37 with 8.77 litres of pure alcohol consumption per capita every year. (Caribbean News)

Citizens Bank records Gy$546 million half-year profit in Guyana

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Citizens Bank Guyana Inc. has recorded a whopping Gy$880 million profit before tax in its quarterly Financial Report ending June 30. According to the bank’s financial document published in the local newspapers last Saturday, after a deduction of Gy$333 million it managed to gain Gy$546 million after tax profit after six months when compared to the Gy$512 million recorded for the same period last year. The documents placed the company’s cash flow at Gy$4.1 billion for the six months, an increase of Gy$1.7 billion over last year’s. In the bank’s annual report ending December 2013, there was a profit after tax of Gy$1 billion when com-

Citizens Bank’s Managing Director Eton Chester

pared to Gy$82.2 million from the previous year. The Managing Director, Eton Chester, had stated that the construction of Citizens Bank’s state-of-the-art headquarters at Camp Street, Georgetown, will be its major project for 2014 and was expected to gain momentum.

However, no update was given on the progress of the project in recentlypublished financial records. Meanwhile, Clifford Reis, Chairman of Banks DIH, Citizens Bank’s parent company, had said that in addition to its main office, the commercial bank will be expanding its branch and ATM networks. He was optimistic that such investments would improve customer convenience while simultaneously increasing benefits for stakeholders. “The launch of our e-banking service and Visa International Credit and Debit Cards respectively will be in addition to other value-added services we intend to offer during fiscal 2014,” Reis added.

Net growth

Managing

Director

Chester was positive that Guyana’s economy will grow, thereby having a positive impact on commercial banks, and Citizens Bank will be no exception. “Intense competition among commercial banks and non-bank financial institutions, excess liquidity in the banking system and declining interest rates are expected to continue in fiscal 2014,” he posited. Reflecting on 2013, Chester said net interest income stood at Gy$2.2 billion at the end of the last financial year when compared to Gy$1.9 billion in 2012. The bank’s ability to increase its loan portfolio and reduce the cost of deposits were among contributing factors to the growth in net interest income. (Guyana Times)

New policy to govern Jamaica’s private schools

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Chief Education Officer in Jamaica’s Ministry of Education Dr Grace McLean said the ministry needs to improve the monitoring of the private education sector and a new policy development is coming soon to address just that. Under the new policy, Dr McLean said that private schools would be redefined, to include all levels and genres of the system and the con-

cept of lifelong learning. The aim, she said, is to redefine them in accordance with current trends and practices. “This redefinition will also enable the Ministry of Education to identify, classify, register and recognise all private institutions offering education services,” she explained, pointing out that the current definition in the Education Act excludes students at the early childhood level and a large number of learn-

ers at the post-secondary level. “The Education Regulations section will have to be changed to reflect the new definition,” she stated. She pointed out that the ministry is to create a management framework that adequately meets the operational needs of private institutions, in guaranteeing quality assurance, safety and security. It is proposed, she said, that the new management framework

will see the ministry verifying the suitability of proprietors to provide education services, check private schools’ adherence to safety and security guidelines, and monitor their adherence to ministry guidelines on contact hours, curricula and age appropriate instruction. Meanwhile, Dr McLean said the ministry is fully aware of the importance of private schools in the education system. (Jamaica Observer)

Director of TT's National Operations Centre Commander Garvin Heerah

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Director of TT’s National Operations Centre (NOC) Commander Garvin Heerah last Saturday confirmed that the 28-year-old patient admitted to a private health facility in Trinidad exhibiting signs resembling the deadly Ebola virus had shown “marked signs of improvement.” Heerah was responding to questions from TT media following reports that a second patient had transferred to and been quarantined at the Caura Hospital last Friday night. “After extensive checks by the Ministry of Health, the point person designated to treat all issues relating to the Ebola, Chief Medical Officer Dr (Clyde) Tilluckdharry and the NOS was officially informed that no admission was made to the Caura Health Facility with any suspicious signs or symptoms similar to that of Ebola,” Heerah indicated

He noted that further checks were made by the Ministry of Health and the District Medical Officer responsible for that area and again, there were no reports of any such admission. “The Ministry of Health further advises that there are no reported cases of Ebola in TT,” Heerah verified. Minister of Health Dr Fuad Khan said treatment of the patient was strictly precautionary. “There is no reason to panic. Yes, the man visited Nigeria but there are 110 million people in Nigeria and 17 known cases of Ebola, so yes, while there is a reason for concern, there is no reason for panic,” he pointed out. Last Friday, the Ministry of Health issued a media release assuring citizens that “there are no confirmed, suspected or potential cases of the Ebola virus in Trinidad and Tobago.” The ministry said the patient was doing well though results of tests on him were pending. (TT Guardian)

Commissioners for Jamaica’s Tivoli Enquiry sworn in

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The three commissioners appointed to oversee the Tivoli Commission of Enquiry have now been sworn in. The commissioners: Retired Court of Appeal Judge, Justice Hazel Harris, University of the West Indies Professor, Anthony Harriott and former Attorney General of Barbados Sir David Simmons were sworn in during a ceremony at the Jamaica Pegaus Hotel. They took the Oath of Office before former Chief Justice of Jamaica, Lensley Wolfe. Immediately after the swearing-in, the Commissioners, Secretary to the Commission and Legal Counsel convened their preliminary meeting to chart the way forward for the Enquiry. Based on the Terms of Reference, the

Commissioners have been charged with, among other things, enquiring into whether the rights of persons were violated in the Tivoli incursion in May 2010. In addition they are to determine the circumstances under which, several Police Stations and other state property were attacked and damaged during or around the period of the State of Emergency declared in May 2010. The commissioners are also to look into the conduct of Jamaica's security forces during the period. The commission has been asked to conclude their enquiry within three months after it begins. Two months after the end of the commission, a full report with recommendations is to be presented to Governor General Sir Patrick Allen.

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Guyana’s ruling PPP/C and election’s commission continue squabble

- over list of electors

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has been placed in the spotlight once again; this time over the discovery of close to 3000 dead persons on the Preliminary List of Electors (PLE). But GECOM claimed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is being “malicious” over an electoral process that has been well established. In an interview with Guyanese media on Monday, GECOM’s Deputy Chief Elections Officer Vishnu Persaud said the names of persons now deceased are included in the National Register of Registrants (NRR) but these names are “flagged” when the

Preliminary List of Electors is extracted. It was further explained that the names of persons now dead can only be flagged by GECOM if the General Register Office (GRO) provides authentic information/documents (death certificates), indicating that an individual or a group of persons have died. Until authentic documents are provided, the names of decease are left on the PLE. “Anywhere in the world, there will always be deceased persons on Preliminary Lists of Electors,” he said. However, he stated that during the extended Claims and Objections period, scrutineers representing political parties and electors who are list-

ed in the division or subdivision of the decease can make representation to GECOM, but authentic documents such a death certificate must be provided. GECOM’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally said the PPP/C’s request to remove names of deceased from the PLE without the relevant documents, would be asking GECOM to break the law. At a press conference held at Freedom House, Rohee said party activists have found 2958 dead persons on the PLE with the majority in Region Six. According to him, in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, the names of 450 dead persons were found on the PLE while 232 were found in Region

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

Three; 345 in Region Two; 430 in Region Five; 925 in Region Six; 288 in Region 10; and another 288 in Region Four.

Empty plot of land

Compounding the situation, he said, the PPP/C field workers operating in Prospect, East Bank Demerara visited an address in the area to verify information that

GECOM’s Deputy Chief Elections Officer Vishnu Persaud

10 persons were residing there, only to discover that it was an empty plot of land with over grown vegetation. Rohee said the land has been unoccupied for the past eight to 10 years. According to him, these are clear cut cases of list padding. He said GECOM should explain

GECOM’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally

the significant increase in new registrants. The PPP/C has been complaining bitterly over the increase from 11, 000 to 78, 000 new registrants. Rohee maintained that GECOM should ensure that a credible list of electors is produced at the end of the Claims and Objections period. (Guyana Times)

PM Portia describes late Agriculture Minister as “one of a kind”

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller led the tribute to her former agriculture minister, Roger Clarke, who died in the United States last Thursday, describing him as “one of a kind”. Clarke, 74, had been at the Jackson Memorial Hospital in Florida since mid-July where he had undergone surgery for a back problem and was returning to Jamaica when he died at the airport. Prime Minister Simpson Miller said that his passing has created a tremendous void in the government as well as the ruling People’s National Party (PNP). “Roger was a one

Jamaica’s late Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke (JIS photo)

of a kind politician. A son of the soil, a humble man and I will always remember him for his generosity of spirit, but also for his contribution to Jamaica as councillor, mayor, Member of

Parliament, and Minister of Government,” she said, adding that in the coming weeks a decision will be made as to a portfolio assignment for the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

“We are all saddened and shocked by his passing, because he called a number of us and said he would be coming home this week. He was very excited about returning to Jamaica,” Mrs.

Simpson Miller said, as she expressed condolences to his widow, Sonia, members of his family, and his constituents of Central Westmoreland. The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) as well as JAMPRO, have also extended their condolences to Clarke’s family. JAMPRO said that Jamaica has lost one of her great sons, noting that agriculture was a way of life for Clarke who grew up on his family’s farm in Westmoreland. Leader of the Opposition Andrew Holness said that he was deeply saddened by the passing of Clarke, whom he described as a "colleague and friend". "He was the most af-

fable politician I know. Blessed with wit and an infectious sense of humour, he was able to make us laugh at ourselves," Holness indicated. Former Prime Ministers Edward Seaga and Bruce Golding, although representing the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), also publicly expressed their sandess. Clarke was generally regarded as one of the most humorous MPs, and whose affability often bridged the deep political divide between representatives of the two dominant political parties--the governing PNP and the opposition JLP-inside Gordon House. (Jamaica Observer)

Concern grows over child beggars in Caribbean

n the Caribbean, there is growing concern over child labour and indirect forms of begging. Children are being seen working various forms of street hustling such as the selling of counterfeit movies, stolen electronic devices, or local produce like fruits and vegetables. In more severe cases, child’s rights advocates have reported a high incidence of sexual abuse of children who are expected to provide for themselves. These economic burdens that are placed on children can have a devastating impact on their lives. Many of these children are lured in various forms of illicit activities,

like child pornography, theft, gang-violence and child trafficking. Child trafficking has become a serious concern for many Caribbean societies, in particular as many are struggling with their economic and social inequalities. Child trafficking can take various forms, including but not limited to forced child begging, sexual exploitation, child pornography, child marriage and child soldiers. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has also reported that the numbers of children being trafficked across the globe are mainly trafficked to engage in street begging, prostitution and crimes

like stealing. The rights of children are often under-evaluated. It is known that children under the age of 18 years are often forced to work to provide for their families. Many of these children die as the result of the harsh environments that their tender and under-nourished bodies endure. As a result, developing nations have designed specific guidelines to protect children from social implications that have had dire effects on their lives. The Caribbean Region is not immune to child exploitation. In various countries, during the vacation or school breaks, children can be seen begging for money, food sup-

Children are being seen working various forms of street hustling (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

plies and other forms of basic necessities. Some of these children, because of the harsh economic real-

ities of their households, are placed in unbearable dilemmas to contribute to their families’ misfor-

tunes. Many families believe that it is harmless to have their children participate in the economic contributions of the household, but many are unaware of the dangers that their children may face if they are placed in unsupervised environments. The difficulties in curbing child begging are mainly due to the fact that children are minors and the guardians are usually the ones who enforce their activities. As a result, these vulnerable minors are coerced by a family member or loved ones to take up their responsibilities by becoming economic providers for their families. (Caribbean News Now)

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PM Gonsalves re-shuffles Cabinet

- amid preparations for St. Vincent general election

INGSTOWN, ST. VINCENT: Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Monday announced a minor Cabinet re-shuffle shifting the Ministry of Works to the Office of the Prime Minister with immediate effect. Gonsalves said the Minister of Works Julian Francis, will become a Minister of State in that Ministry. Francis is also general-secretary of the Gonsalves-led ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the development is in keeping with the ULP’s actions leading up to general elections, which are constitutional-

ly due by December 2015. Political observers said the announcement, taken in conjunction with statements made by Prime Minister Gonsalves and Francis earlier this year, is expected to further fuel speculations that the government is preparing for early elections. Gonsalves, in making the announcement on Monday, told a news conference that he had written to the Governor General General’s Deputy, Susan Dougan, concerning Francis demitting office as Minister of Transport, Works, Urban Development, and Local Government “from

More tax waivers for Guyanese gold and diamond miners

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : More concessions are in store for miners, Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) President Patrick Harding disclosed during a recent interview with Guyanese media. According to Harding, major suppliers within the mining industry will be soon granted concessions for a list of equipment by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). “I have seen the list, so I think it is in the process of being approved,” he posited. With concessions being offered to major suppliers, it is expected that the costs of these equipment will be reduced significantly when sold on the local market. Less than a week ago, President Donald Ramotar announced that duty-free concessions would be given for a “particular type of vehicle”. But concessions would be granted based on the amount of gold declared by miners and taxes paid. Questioned about the President’s announcement, Harding said this is a welcomed move, explaining that the recommendation was in the pipeline for an extensive period. Since August 2013, the GGDMA had called for the government to assent to tax waivers on the importation of 4×4, 4 doors vehicles. “It was explained that these vehicles are still being deemed as luxury items/vehicles

GGDMA President Patrick Harding

and attract heavy import duties, although they are necessary for safe travel. They are often used to transport rations, spares, and personnel to and from mining operations. “Opened back vehicles are not safe, persons could fall out and now we have a lot of women in the industry, so that is surely welcome,” he posited. In July, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry announced a menu of measures that are expected to cushion the impact of falling gold prices. At the time, subject Minister Robert Persaud indicated that more than Gy$1.5 billion will be expended on road repairs within the six mining districts of Guyana. Additionally, he disclosed that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has granted a licence to the GGDMA for importation and distribution of fuel. The regulations that will govern this transaction however are still being worked out. (Guyana Times)

St. Vincent’s Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves

today (Monday) as soon the Governor General signs the requisite instruments and issues the constitutional requisites. “The Ministry of Works will come under the Prime Minister

with immediate effect, and Minister Francis will be appointed today (Monday) as the Minister of State in the Ministry of Works in the Office of the Prime Minister with special responsibil-

ity for BRAGSA, Land Transport, the Electrical Inspectorate, Local Government and Urban Development,” Gonsalves said. “The rest of the Works Ministry, which includes Roads and the Appurtenances, Sea and River Defenses, Buildings and Works, those would be handled directly by me. Of course, I am the minister responsible for those matters even for which Minister Francis is given special responsibility, but he will have day-to-day over sight of those,” Gonsalves added. “…since he will be a Minister of State under

the Prime Minister, one can anticipate that the PM will assign him other duties from time to time, as indeed I would assign other ministers and other officials duties from time to time,” stated Gonsalves, who is also Minister of Finance, National Security, Legal Affairs and Grenadines Affairs. Gonsalves highlighted that the matters he will address in the Ministry of Works are largely the big projects financed by the World Bank, the Caribbean Development Bank, the governments of the Taiwan and Ecuador and the European Union. (Caribbean News)

Chinese conglomerates eager to invest in Antigua S HANDONG, CHINA: The Antigua and Barbuda government says over 12 major conglomerates in China have expressed interest in doing business in the Caribbean state. During a meeting in China last Saturday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne told a group of chief executive officers and presidents of corporations attached to the Department of Commerce of Shandong Province that Antigua is part of a network of trade agreements that allow goods to enter the European Union, Canada and the United States. “Antigua and Barbuda has a stable investment environment. When you invest in our country, there is no need to worry about a fall in the value of your products; in fact, value will increase instead,” said Browne in a

Antigua’s Prime Minister Browne visiting a solar power facility in Shandong, China (A&B gov’t photo)

statement. “Investing in Antigua and Barbuda is also a gateway to other markets within Latin America and the Caribbean, I urge you to capitalise on investing in a country that is poised to become the economic powerhouse of the Caribbean,” he added. Deputy DirectorGeneral of Shandong Department of Commerce, Yan Zhaowan, said that

Chinese business leaders were impressed with Browne’s presentations and the economic possibilities in Antigua and Barbuda, the statement said. Zhaowan indicated that his division sees the possibility of investing in tourism, information communication technology (ICT), agriculture and manufacturing, adding that there is “great value to future collaboration.” The Antigua and

Barbuda government identified some of the companies in the top 100 in China, that have expressed interest in doing business as the Shondong Linuo Paradigma Co. Ltd, SEPCO1 Electric Power Construction Corporation and Shandong Auhua Clean Energy Co. Ltd. Following the business meeting, Browne met with secretary of the Shandon Provincial Committee and chairman of the Standing Committee of Shandong Provincial People’s Congress, Jiang Yikang, and held discussions on further cooperation with officials in Shandong. Jiang said China views Antigua and Barbuda as a “very good friend,” according to the statement, adding that Browne’s visit, his first as head of government, “is an indication of the high level of the friendship.” (Caribbean News)

Golden Krust sues rival Jamaican food company in NY

EW YORK, USA: The owners of the popular Golden Krust food chain in New York have filed a lawsuit to stop a rival Jamaican food company–Silver Krust from partially using its name. In papers filed in Manhattan Federal Court last Friday, Golden Krust says it’s been “among the most successful minority owned businesses in the country” since opening in the 1990s,

and the knockoff is hurting its reputation. “Without plaintiffs’ knowledge or approval, defendants set up a competing Caribbean food restaurant they, not coincidentally, called Silver Krust,” the suit says. “Defendants use the distinctive K in misspelling KRUST, and have merely substituted Golden with Silver in coming up with” their name, the suit adds. Golden Krust claims

that Silver Krust sells some of Golden Krust products, and “have gradually expanded their Silver Krust restaurant locations so they have become closer and closer to genuine Golden Krust restaurants,” according to the lawsuit. There are currently six Silver Krust restaurants in Brooklyn and Queens, and that there’s been “actual confusion about the relationship” between the two chains.

The suit claims that when Golden Krust communicated with Silver Krust about the problem, a representative for Silver Krust “readily apologised” for the name, but has failed to change it. Golden Krust wants a court order forcing Silver Krust to change its name and to grant unspecified money damages for the “blatant infringement of their trademarks.” (Caribbean News)

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Guyana gets multi-million Dozens treated after chlorine dollar agricultural boost cylinder explosion in Jamaica

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Two laboratories costing some Gy$300 million were on Monday commissioned in Guyana at the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. The Bio Control and Tissue Culture laboratories are aimed at the monitoring and controlling of pest and diseases affecting plants, particularly those for exportation. Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy said Guyana has taken one more step towards the realisation of science and technology to drive the development of the nation. He highlighted that the ministry is directing the way through

Guyana's President Donald Ramotar unveils the plaque at the Tissue Culture Laboratory

which agriculture can benefit from science and technology. Dr Ramsammy pointed out that with Guyana being an agriculture country, it cannot rely on external support for soil testing. Among the benefits of the Tissue Culture Laboratory is its ability to produce plantain plantlets tissue culture

Guyana's President Ramotar on a guided tour of the Bio Control Laboratory

with help from friends between now and next year. President Donald Ramotar dubbed the commissioning of the two labs as another demonstration of governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seriousness in pursuing a strong agriculture programme. He said there are huge scope and possibilities to develop the local agriculture sector. Ramotar noted too that there is a growing health awareness of people who are becoming more conscious of what they eat and what they need to eat to remain healthy. He said there is a lot more scrutiny on foods that are exported to countries and hence, Guyana is making such investments. (Guyana Times)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Some 43 people were Monday treated at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Jamaica after inhaling gas from a chlorine spill on Church Street in Morant Bay, St Thomas. Horace Glaze, deputy director of the Office of Disaster and Emergency P r e p a r e d n e s s Management (ODPEM), said while the office had not yet been informed about the cause of the leak, the agency was able to monitor the problem to get things back in order. "We are awaiting information from the parish council, the fire brigade and the National Water Commission (NWC) as to the cause of the chlorine spill but the agency was able to coordinate response to the incident with the help of the Ministry of Health," Glaze said. D e p u t y Superintendent for the Morant Bay Fire Station Denzel Roper stated that on receiving reports of severe irritation from a chemical scent, his team visited the area and was able to identify that it

A section of the Princess Margaret Hospital in Morant Bay, St Thomas (Jamaica Observer photo)

was chlorine. Roper added that further analysis of the affected area revealed that the gas was coming from an old chlorine tank on the property of the Morant Bay tax office. "When we inspected the area we realised that an old chlorine tank buried on the property of the tax office was ruptured," Roper related. He added: "We cordoned off the area and evacuated business and schools within a 200-metre radius of the area. It caused a traffic build-up but with the help of the police we were able to quickly control that." Roper, however, said that due to the nature of the spill contact was made with the NWC's head office to address the situation and they were

able to identify the cylinder and remove it. He said normality was restored to the area by 1:00 pm. National Water Commission spokesman Charles Buchanan made it clear that the leak had nothing to do with the organisation; however, due to its nature the office was contacted to assist with the removal of the cylinder. "Because the NWC has a chlorine response team we were asked to assist and seek to correct the problem. Our chlorine emergency team was deployed and they succeeded in identifying the cylinder and took the necessary steps to place it in a specialised container and remove it from the area," Buchanan said. (Jamaica Observer)

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Guyanese farmers involved in exchange programme

- through Canada-funded initiative

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Executive members of the Mara Farmers Association (MFA) recently concluded a twoday exchange visit to the Tapakuma Women’s Farmers in Region Two, as the Canada-funded CARILED project continues to impact Guyanese producers. Activities of the exchange included members of the visiting group participating in the Region Two local economic development planning and advisory committee meeting held at the Regional Democratic Council boardroom, and several farm visits in the Tapakuma mission. Regional Executive Officer Sunil Singh welcome the delegation and encouraged both groups

and Regional Development Ministry are supporting across various regions in Guyana to support local economic development in communities. MFA executives was impressed by the determination and courage of Tapakuma youngest female farmer (17 years Guyanese farmers from Tapakuma and Mara benefitted old) and providfrom exchange of local agricultural technology ed her with fiand community governance practices nancial assistance. to utilise the opportunity Dhanraj Singh explained During the farm for maximum knowledge that the exchange is visits, Mara Farmers sharing and exchange of one of many activities (MFA) best practices. that the organisation Association CARILED National in collaboration with President Ovid Phillips Country Coordinator the Local Government explained to all participants how to conduct simple soil test using soil samples, a container with water and litmus paper. Mara Farmers Association Vice President Ramjagan Singh demonstrated effective planting techniques for cassava plant-

ing, extracting of new plants and planting techniques for plantain and banana, and also offered technical advices on effective use of fertilisers and agro-chemicals for increased farms productivity.

Growth, production

Doreen Jacobis, Toshao of the Tapakuma mission, explained that farmers in the mission are young and not so experience and the knowledge exchanged and shared with the farmers on local agricultural practices, agro-chemical utilisation, pest management and disease control will see significant growth and production in the mission. Jacobis also shared several governance and community management practices that the mission have used for decades and have work effectively in fostering social cohesion and economic development in the mission. CARILED is funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development,

Canada, (DFATD). It is a six-year programme launched in May 2012, with headquarters in Trinidad and Tobago, and sub-offices in St. Lucia (OECS) and Ottawa, Canada. The programme is being implemented by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), in partnership with the Caribbean Association of Local Government Authorities (CALGA), the Caribbean Forum of Local Government Ministers (CFLGM) and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF). The programme, focused on local economic development, currently works in seven Caribbean countries to develop models of LED that can be shared throughout the region. It aims to partner with 50 local government authorities to support the growth and development of 500 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). (Guyana Times)

Trinidadian drives world-changing biopolymer firm to global prominence

AINBRIDGE, USA: Trinidadian Paul Pereira is guiding Meredian Inc, a biopolymer manufacturer, to global prominence with the world’s most advanced 100 percent biodegradable plastic, as they go before the world in the transition from petroleum-based plastics to bioplastics. Meredian’s biopolymers disintegrate within 12 to 16 weeks in all six different conditions, including fresh and marine water, home and industrial composting, anaero-

bic and soil. This makes them the most ecologically sound biodegradable plastic in the world and, with the different potential applications, the biopolymer can be used to make any product that is currently being made from petroleum-based plastic. As the shift to reducing plastic continues, Meredian released two new videos to depict their process of creating their 100 percent biodegradable plastic, and the benefits of moving away from petro-plastics to

create a sustainable future. The purpose of the videos is to give consumers a better understanding of what PHA is and the process of using plant-derived oils, such as canola, to create it. The cycle of farming canola to create the plastic and breaking down and putting nutrients back into the soil proves there is an opportunity to use plastic without wasting or depleting earth’s resources, and also without creating more trash. (TT Guardian)

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San Fernando transsexual awarded TT’s Humming Bird Medal

O R T - O F - S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Prominent San Fernando hair-stylist, and animal rights activist Jowelle Taylor de Souza has been awarded TT’s Humming Bird Medal Bronze. The national award is given to persons for loyal and devoted service to Trinidad and Tobago. In her case it is given for community service for her work as an animal rights activist. Jowelle, who was born male, shot into the spotlight several years ago after undergoing what is said to be the first sex reassignment surgery in Trinidad and is well known for her outspokenness on national issues and her passion for animals. Speaking at her Independence Avenue, San Fernando Hair Salon last Saturday, Jowelle said she was delighted to know her work is being recognised. “It means a lot to me, that they are awarding something of that nature. I am pleased. Animals are important to me. In first world countries animals are well-taken care of. ” She was careful to point out that the award is not about her but what she is doing for abandoned animals. Jowelle is the founder of “Animals Alive” a shelter for over 300 dogs and cats and is located at Ralph Narine Trace, South Oropouche. She said her objective is to save as many animals as possible that are abandoned or ill- treated. “I work hard and I hope that one day people would see what I am doing and join in.” She receives an annual subvention from government

Guyana Defence Force trains St. Kitts Nevis’ ranks

San Fernando hair-stylist and animal rights activist Jowelle Taylor de Souza

to help with salaries but says the bulk of the funding comes from her business. Jowelle who starts work at 6am said she works at least 12 to 16 hours a day. Some of her clients include former Attorney General Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj but she confesses to doing the hair of Presidents and other prominent persons including former U.S. First Lady Hillary Clinton. Jowelle said she is not fazed by negative comments that some may make about her sexuality. “I would not change a single thing in my life and if I had to live all over again I would do exactly what I did before,” she said. Among her plans for the future is to contest the San Fernando West seat as an Independent candidate in the 2015 general elections. (TT Newsday)

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: In the true spirit of military cooperation among Caricom states, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) continues to provide training for officers and ranks of the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF). In this regard, SKNDF Captain Peter Kayode Sutton, on August 18, graduated from the GDF’s Senior Command and Staff Course Number 13. In addition, Sergeants Shayne Mike and Jahmoy Gumbs recently completed training on the Drill Instructor Course. Mike and Gumbs are now on attachment to the GDF Training Corps, where they are going to serve as members of the training staff, on the Force’s upcoming second annual Basic Recruit Course, scheduled to commence shortly. Their colleagues, Warrant Officer Class Two, Mervin Lewis and Sergeants Sherwin Julius and Althea France are currently students on the Senior Leader Course. Meanwhile, Corporal Desroy Elliot, a trained mechanic and Lance Corporal Melissa Carey, a Financial Clerk, are on attachment

Members of the St Kitts and Nevis Defence Force

to the GDF’s Motor Pool and Finance Department respectively. Elliot is scheduled to commence training on the Section Commander Course while Carey is slated to train on the Junior Leader Course. Captain Sutton says that the experiences of the Senior Command and Staff Course, built on his earlier training with the GDF when he was enlisted as an Officer Cadet back in 1999. “This has not been a strange experience for me. I was able to adjust rather quickly since I am already familiar with the GDF and its training environment. In actual fact, coming back on this senior course is like coming home,” he said. “In our Defence Force, Guyana is regarded very highly for the comprehensive nature of its training. In fact, my earlier train-

ing as an Officer Cadet enabled me to successfully complete Ranger training in the USA.” The Captain explained that many more of his colleagues and ranks from the SKNDF will be coming to Guyana to pursue training as it is recognised as a necessary element for their development in the SKNDF. He believes that the experience of training in Guyana has tremendous benefits not only for his soldiers, but also for the further development of the SKNDF. The other soldiers of the SKNDF say that their experiences thus far have been quite valuable. They confessed that, it has taken some getting used to Guyana and some cultural differences, but agreed that the experience is one that they will always treasure. (Guyana Times)

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Guyana gov’t pledges Gy$2 billion for protected areas

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: In a ground-breaking move towards improved environmental stewardship, the government of Guyana on Monday announced that the country will contribute approximately US$10 million (Gy$2 billion) in mining revenues to the National Protected Areas Trust Fund (NPATF). This landmark declaration was made by the Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud, at the first Board of Trustees meeting of the NPATF. According to the minister, the country has recently made significant strides in establishing a national protected areas system, and this endowment will further support efforts to conserve the natural heritage. The announcement also underscores the government’s commitment to the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the conservation of biodiversity in Guyana. The Protected Areas Trust Fund is called for under the Protected Areas Act 2011, and is the latest major com-

Barbados gov’t lobbies Canada for jobs - under temporary foreign workers programme

B Guyana’s Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud with members of the National Protected Areas Trust Fund Board of Trustees

ponent of the country’s multifaceted approach to protected areas development to come on-stream. The trust is separate and apart from the Protected Areas Commission, and is managed as a body corporate by a six member Board of Trustees. The trustees were nominated by the government, the Private Sector Commission, the University of Guyana, the National Toshaos Council, and non-governmental donors. To date, the NPATF has also received commitments of US$5.3 million from the government of Germany and US$3.5 million from Conservation

International’s (CI) Global Conservation Fund. The NPATF will function primarily as an endowment fund, where the funds received will be invested in various secure international markets to ensure a steady and attractive rate of return, competitive with other similar trust funds. The revenue generated by these investments will then be used to implement management plans, strengthen monitoring and enforcement in protected areas, support sustainable community enterprises, biodiversity conservation, and environmental edu-

cation and awareness. Guyana established its Protected Areas System with the passing of the national Protected Areas Act in 2011. This was quickly followed by the creation of new protected areas, the Protected Areas Commission and interventions aimed at improving the management of the system. The Protected Area System is made up of the Kaieteur National Park, Kanuku Mountains Protected Area, Shell Beach Protected Area, Iwokrama Rainforest, the Zoo and Botanical Gardens and other urban parks. (Guyana Times)

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: The Freundel Stuart-led administration is currently lobbying the Canadian government to lift an existing suspension of its temporary foreign workers programme so that Barbadian hotel workers can get involved in the initiative. The Barbados government is hopeful that the matter would be resolved soon thereby allowing Barbadian hotel workers to participate in the Canadian programme in time for the annual recruitment drive later this year. Speaking recently at the opening ceremony of the Barbados Workers’ Union 73rd Annual Delegates Conference at Solidarity House, Labour Minister Dr. Esther Byer Suckoo noted that the decision by the Canadian government to halt its temporary foreign workers programme has af-

fected Barbados’ longstanding supply of hotel workers to hotels in that North American country. The move is part of the Barbadian government’s effort to tackle the issue of unemployment currently plaguing the island. The minister assured that in keeping with the national employment policy, every agent of government is doing its best to ensure growth, investment, innovation and business development in order to ensure the creation of jobs. As part of her ministry’s efforts to meet the employment demands of Barbadians, Byer Suckoo said that it has been proposed that the National Employment Bureau be restructured to address issues of capacity, enhanced career counselling and training, as well as local and overseas job placement. (Excerpts from Barbados Advocate)

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Embattled court official barred from leaving St. Vincent on one-way ticket

INGSTOWN, ST. VINCENT: The Immigration Department in St. Vincent has prevented the embattled former Registrar of the High Court, Vanessa Tamara Gibson-Marks from leaving the island for her homeland, less than 24 hours after she was granted bail on theft, abuse of office, and false certification charges. “The information received is that there is ongoing investigation in which Miss Marks

was needed and she was stopped,” Chief Immigration Officer, Stanford Hamilton confirmed. Marks was granted EC$30,000 bail with one surety when she appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last Thursday, less than 24-hours after she returned to St. Vincent for the first time since she left on May 21. The court did not ask her to surrender her travel documents. “The court grant-

Former Registrar of the High Court in St. Vincent Vanessa Tamara Gibson-Marks

ed Miss Marks bail, and there were conditions in

relation to the bail that

was granted. The issue at hand had nothing to do with the bail which she was granted,” Hamilton told Caribbean media. “The condition in which she was granted bail was already stated on the bond. That had nothing to do with the issue in which she was stopped.” Gibson-Marks checked in to travel on a one-way ticket to St. Lucia last Friday, but she was unchecked and her bags removed. The flight was ini-

tially booked by Duane Daniel—one of GibsonMarks’ lawyers—in Daniel’s name last Thursday. Gibson-Marks pleaded not guilty to the charges against her and is scheduled to re-appear at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on October 7. She is also expected in court next month to give cause why she should not be disbarred from practicing law in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. (Caribbean News)

More Guyanese equipped with rehabilitation, audiology skills G

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Graduates of Guyana’s Health Ministry’s 2014 Rehabilitation and Audiology courses were last Thursday challenged to serve with distinction. The charge was delivered at the Regency Suites during the graduation ceremony for the 18 Rehabilitation Assistants and four Audiological Practitioners. The Rehabilitation Assistants Training Programme in Guyana dates back to 1998. Since then seven batches of Rehabilitation Assistants have graduated following extensive theoretical and practical training sessions in the field. This latest batch, which comprises Rehabilitation Assistants from Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven and Eight, were given 18 months of training at the Georgetown Public Hospital. They were trained in basic techniques in the disciplines of speech and language therapy,

The Health Ministry’s 2014 Rehabilitation and Audiology graduating class

occupational therapy and physiotherapy. With their certificate comes the responsibility to provide preventive, therapeutic and rehabilitative interventions to individuals and families in different settings, whether inside or beyond the doors of hospitals, health centres and rehabilitation facilities.

Success rate The Rehabilitation Assistant Training Programme Coordinator Geraldine Maison Halls disclosed that the programme has a success rate of over 98 percent. According to her, the high success rate is due in no small way to the selection

Amateur radio group claims Trinidad school computers infected with spyware

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: An amateur radio organisation in TT has claimed that it has tested Chinese-supplied computers and confirmed the presence of such malicious software. In a letter last Saturday to the president of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA), Julien Dedier, chairman of the board of directors of the Trinidad and Tobago Amateur Radio League (TTARL) stated that TTARL’s intelligence group has investigated and tested several of the computers given to schoolchildren in Trinidad and Tobago by the government during the period 2012 to 2014.

“In layman’s language, the children are being spied upon and at the same time being used as gateway for spying purposes. The compromised computers were sending back information via a backdoor protocol, which is normally used by government spy agencies around the world,” Dedier claimed. He said that his own daughter, who attends a government secondary school, had a computer given to her that was compromised by spyware, something that is illegal in Trinidad and Tobago under the country’s Interception of Communication Act. Students entering Form One at government schools in Trinidad and Tobago are entitled to a

brand new laptop computer with preinstalled and configured software and, in 2011, the government switched from Hewlett Packard (HP) to Lenovo computers from China at a concessionary price. Furthermore, Education Minister Dr Tim Gopeesingh revealed last year that 3,300 of the latest purchase of 21,500 Lenovo Thinkpad laptops by the People’s Partnership government were to be shipped to St. Lucia as part of a government-to-government agreement. As at the end of 2013, some 70,000 laptops have been distributed to secondary school students in Trinidad and Tobago from Form One to Form Four. (Caribbean News)

process, and the commitment of tutors and staff in the clinical education of students. Shameka Devonish, a Guyana Defence Force rank, who graduated with a distinction, was deemed the Best Graduating Student for the Class of 2014. The Second Best Graduating Student Award

went to Deniesha McAllister who also graduated with distinction. Devonish and McAllister are the only two students to graduate with distinction, while seven graduated with credit. In the Audiology Class of 2014, there were only four graduates with Estherline Adolph, who hails from Region 10, topping the batch with a distinction. Dacia Ross, who resides in Region Six, and Tisha John and Vernaden Williams, both from Region Seven, graduated with credit. The Audiological Practitioner Training Programme Director, Dr Ruth Quaicoe said the graduates have now joined the struggle of promoting primary ear and hearing care in Guyana. The programme also started in Guyana in 1998, with the launching of the “Earcare 2000” Project. Dr Quaicoe said they will now join a movement geared at removing the stigma attached to hearing loss and differentlyable persons. (Guyana Times)

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Gay man drops court Venezuela owes Caribbean Airlines millions challenge against Jamaica’s law P

INGSTON, JAMAICA: A Jamaican gay man has dropped his court case challenging Jamaica’s anti-buggery law because of what he says are fears for his safety. Javed Jaghai, who had brought the case to the Supreme Court, had argued that the anti-sodomy laws violated his and constitutional rights and those of other people too. But he says he dropped the case because of personal threats, the burden that the litigation was putting on his family, and continuing incidents of violence against Jamaica’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, the LGBT community According to Jaghai, he’s no longer willing to gamble his life or those of his family. J-FLAG, which had brought the claim

Javed Jaghai, who had brought the case to the Supreme Court, had argued that the anti-sodomy laws violated his and constitutional rights and those of other people too

alongside Jaghai, says it understands the situation and fully supports his decision. Both J-FLAG and Jaghai say they hope that in the aftermath there will be an oppor-

tunity to engage in a series of consultations with the government and other stakeholders, geared at sensitising Jamaicans about the LGBT community. (Jamaica Gleaner)

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: State--owned Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) is one of more than a dozen commercial airlines which are finding it extremely difficult to recover funds earned from ticket sales in neighbouring Venezuela. These monies have been “frozen” through a recent Venezuelan policy of restricting the amount of hard currency leaving the beleaguered neighbouring republic on the South American main land. An unconfirmed report has put Venezuela’s debt to Caribbean Airlines at a whopping (US) $10 million plus and growing daily as the airline continues to maintain its daily service (Sunday through Saturday) between Portof-Spain and Caracas using one of its ATR-72-600 aircraft. According to reports in TT media, the airline is now making every effort to have most

An unconfirmed report has put Venezuela’s debt to Caribbean Airlines at a whopping (US) $10 million

of its ticket sales on the Caracas route channelled through its ticketing and Web facilities in Port-of-Spain, in an effort to slow down the growth of the rapidly escalating debt. Unofficial sources define the route as one of the “best performing” and most lucrative in CAL’s system and that was possibly why there was reluctance to cut back on the service. A press report in the United States recently identified some 17 commercial carriers from Europe, the USA, Latin America and the Caribbean awaiting the release of more than (US)$4 billion now being held in the South American republic.

Caribbean Airlines is one of seven airlines in Latin America and the Caribbean which is affected by the Venezuelan “embargo” on funds leaving that country. The other airlines are Panama-based COPA, which operates two daily flights to Port-of-Spain, TAP, Avianca, LAN Chile (from which CAL’s two 767 jets are leased), LACSA and TACA. The European airlines affected by the Venezuelan policy include Air France, Alitalia, Iberia, Luftansa and Air Portugal, while the U.S. carriers include American, Delta, United and courier airline Fedex. The single Canadian affected is Air Canada. (TT Newsday)

Berbicians urge greater police action to tackle crime, piracy C ORENTYNE, G U Y A N A : Residents and members of the business community of Central and Upper Corentyne in Guyana have complained that crime and piracy are among several issues that are affecting them. They aired their concerns during a recent meeting with acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, B Division acting Commander Marlon Chapman and a team of high ranking police officials. The thrust of the meeting was to get to know the concerns affecting community members and how the police and community can work hand-in-hand for a better society. Residents felt that enough is not being done to curtail the increasing level of crime in the region; they are of the view that the criminals are always one step ahead of the police in many cases. In instances where those guilty are caught, the residents felt that the police are sloppy in their case presentation, allowing them to walk

gations of bribery, the Commissioner urged the residents to come forward and report the cases. He assured them that those found guilty will be dealt with accordingly.

Piracy

A resident making a point on the floor

away scotch-free while the victims cope with their losses. Some persons were very blunt in their comments, saying that the police are taking bribes from the criminals and are deliberately messing up cases so that they (criminals) can get off. Other residents called for a SWAT team

in Berbice to help deal with crime as well as an increased presence of the Tactical Services Unit. They are of the view that the presence of more patrols can help reduce crime, especially robberies. The acting Commissioner responded by saying that they will have the Police

Force’s full commitment to tackle crime. He noted that there are quite a few new patrol vehicles recently added to the division that are on patrol more often. He also lamented the need for greater cooperation between residents and police, noting that the police alone cannot solve crime or stop

criminals by themselves, which is why there has been an increased focus on the youths and community groups. These groups help the public to interact and become more comfortable with members of the Force, allowing for greater information sharing, leading to more arrests. In relation to alle-

At the Upper Corentyne meeting which was held at the City Inn Hotel, Springlands, the major concern highlighted was that of piracy on the high seas and the influx of contraband goods. One resident explained that millions of dollars are lost due to the high level of piracy on the Corentyne waters. Another explained that for many, that is their main source of livelihood and if nothing is done to curb this crime, a lot of people will be out of jobs and indebted to the banks, pointing out that a lot of fishermen take loans to help finance their trade. To this, the acting Top Cop told them that they are working with their Surinamese counterparts to tackle piracy and noted the issue is currently engaging government’s attention at the highest level. (Guyana Times)

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TT’s Opposition Leader takes Runoff debate to London

TT’s Opposition Leader and PNM political leader Dr Keith Rowley (TT Guardian file photo)

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Opposition Leader and People’s National Movement (PNM) political leader Dr Keith Rowley continued his discussion about the controversial Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2014 with TT nationals living in London last Saturday. The meeting took place at Senate House, at the University of London. According to a release sent by PNM general secretary Ashton Ford, who accompanied Rowley to London, Rowley’s presentation dealt with major issues in Trinidad and Tobago mainly crime, health and the

recently concluded debate on the Constitution (Amendment Bill) 2014 in Parliament. The Bill was passed with further amendments in the Senate by a vote of 18 to 12, with three Independent Senators (Dr Rolph Balgobin, Dr Dhanayshar Mahabir and David Small) voting with the 15 government senators. The Bill cannot be made law as yet, as it has to first return to the House of Representatives for the Senate amendments to be approved. The House passed the Bill with amendments on August 12. Once this happens, the Bill will be sent to President Anthony

Carmona for his assent and subsequent proclamation into law. Following the Bill’s passage last Thursday, Rowley advised the population to take careful note of the events which transpired in the Senate. He maintained the PNM’s position that contrary to the arguments advanced by Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar, the true intent of the legislation is “a dangerous tinkering by the UNC” in the hope that the provision for runoff elections in the Bill will help it to win the next general election. During last Saturday’s two hour meeting in London, Rowley also responded to several questions from the floor. Among the guests were Rudolph Walker, the renowned international actor, Andrew Ramroop of Saville Row fame, Prof Selwyn Cudjoe, Rev Patricia Stephens, Ancil Barclay, Ancel Wong, Wendell Clement, Carl Morris and others. The meeting was chaired by Victoria Lee. There were performances by former national monarch Tobago Crusoe and teacher calypsonian D’Alberto. (TT Newsday)

Red mud innovation to reduce Jamaica’s road repair costs

INGSTON, JAMAICA: A Ja$7 million investment by the Jamaican government in a new locally produced, low-cost concrete mix is expected to save the country millions in road repair costs, improve road safety and make the problem of potholes a thing of the past. Made from local aggregate and waste material from bauxite processing, the product was developed by the International Centre for Environmental and Nuclear Sciences (ICENS) under the New Material Road Repair (NEWMAT-1) Project. It has been created for application as a semidry concrete mix for filling potholes on parochial roads. When applied to roads, it is expected to remain in position much longer than current materials. At the official launch last Friday at ICENS, on the University of the West Indies (UWI)

Mona campus, Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Phillip Paulwell, said this initiative is vital in reducing the input cost of road repairs, pointing out that imported fuel used to produce cement is a drain on the economy. “A new low-cost alternative for low strength applications should therefore make it possible to carry out far more projects, create jobs, and have safer roads, especially in our rural communities,” he said. The minister added that he is particularly pleased that red mud, which is the waste produced from bauxite processing, is being utilised in the project. He further noted that the initiative represents a Jamaican innovation, noting that the intellectual property involved in the project is owned by the ministry. “We are going to ensure that it is properly patented so that the full value can be shared with

the rest of the world,” he explained. The product was formulated during a fourweek intensive programme starting with 65 mixes made in plastic cups, which were inspected for setting time, estimated strength and stability in water. Outgoing Director General of ICENS, Dr Richard Annells, who conceptualised the project some three years ago, said the goal of the initiative was to develop a product that could fill potholes cheaply, quickly and efficiently. He explained that the material is made with graded stone and sand aggregate available commercially, with some cementitious material added. The final design mix involves waste gypsum provided by Carib Cement, red mud from Windalco’s site at Ewarton, and Terra Rossa (earth) from the Dovecot Memorial Park. (Jamaica Observer)

Anti-Money Laundering legislation…

Guyana gov’t fighting to avoid blacklisting G EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : President Donald Ramotar said his government is desperately working to avoid Guyana being blacklisted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) with the country preparing for a targeted review by the global body by year-end. He made this comment during a press conference last Friday. During a previous meeting held in Paris, London, it was decided there will be a targeted review of Guyana’s status. Guyana is scheduled to appear before another FATF meeting by the end of the year in Paris. In a letter to FATF, Ramotar said he spoke about government’s efforts to get the Bill passed and the refusal of the Opposition members on the Parliamentary Select Committee to meet before the parliamentary recess. He added that further attempts were made during the recess to have the committee meet for them to decide on a Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and FATF compliant Bill, but their efforts were again rejected by the Opposition members. According to the President, the Chairperson on the Special Select Committee, Presidential Adviser Gail Teixeira, recently sent invitations out to have a committee meeting on October 10, just as Parliament comes out of recess; how-

Guyana’s President Donald Ramotar

ever, there has been no response from members of the Opposition to date. Nevertheless, Ramotar noted that the government is continuing the fight to avoid the country being blacklisted by implementing all other measures that do not require legislation.

Work plan

The President pointed out that in carrying out the work plan, government had issued guidelines and is currently developing regulations to deal administratively with many of the matters that are in the Bill. He went on to say that they have moved to establish the operations arm of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), that is, the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). Only Tuesday last, Cabinet had approved some Gy$63.1 million for the construction of

the SOCU headquarters at Eve Leary. The unit will come under the leadership of acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud and will be working closely with the FIU. SOCU will investigate suspected financial transaction of money laundering and financing of terrorism, in keeping with Guyana’s treaty obligation to the CFATF. Arrangements are currently being made for the recruitment of staff for the unit and President Ramotar has expressed his appreciation, specifically to the British, the U.S. and Canadian governments for supporting the establishment of the institution and helping to keep Guyana on par with international financial standards. (Guyana Times)

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Trini on U.S. 'Top Cop' list P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: How does one go from being born in a rural district of a Caribbean island to being honoured by the president of the United States at the White House. For Trinidad-born Scott Pulchansingh it happened because of his commitment to duty and the bravery displayed in carrying out his duties. Pulchansingh was one of 17 law enforcement officers from the Boston Police Department presented with TOP COP Awards® by U.S. president Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White

House on May 20. Born in the village of Endeavour in Chaguanas and a past pupil of Presentation College Chaguanas, Pulchansingh was honoured for the role he played in the capture of Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev after the pair shot and killed 26-yearold Sean Collier, an MIT police officer. The Tsarnaev brothers were the principal suspects in the setting off of two bombs during the running of the Boston Marathon on April 15 last year, which led to the death of three persons with hundreds in-

jured. Pulchansingh gave TT media a brief account of the Tsarnaevs apprehension and his subsequent nomination to TOP COPS: “After responding to the slaying of Officer Collier we actively searched for the Tsarnaev brothers. “Along with members from the Youth Violence Strike Force (commonly called The Gang Unit) we chased them in Watertown and were engaged in a firefight, during which shots were fired and bombs were tossed out the window at us.

“Eventually we apprehended them and I was the officer who conducted a search on Tamerlan Tsarnaev,” Pulchansingh said. He said as a result his department honoured him with the Schroeder Brothers Memorial Award last December and nominated him for Top Cops. Pulchansingh, who has 19 years’ service as a law enforcement officer, said he loves what he Scott Pulchansingh and U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder does. “After migrating to ing which time I worked later become a full time the U.S. in 1985 I be- closely with the Mayor’s member of the Boston Department,” came a health inspector office and all agencies Police including the Police Pulchansingh related. with the city of Boston Department. I would (TT Express) and a constable, dur-

The Jamaican Rastafarian with 10-foot long dreadlocks

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The dreadlocks of Rupert Rickards are more than 10 feet long, and the Rastafarian says

it requires two bottles of shampoo and half a bottle of conditioner each time he washes his hair. Rickards, 64, started to grow his dreadlocks

in 1968 after moving out of his parents' house. He says keeping his hair clean sometimes proves challenging, forcing him to spend more than three

hours to ensure that it is properly cleansed. "Most of the times I go to the river and wash it. I just put it on my knee and wash it like clothes

Rupert Scott (left) poses for pictures with Saddah Malaka from the South African Embassy when embassy staff visited the Middleton Primary School in observance of Nelson Mandela Day in July (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

for about 45 minutes," Rickards told Jamaica media. "After washing it, I have to throw it over a line to make it dry. I will stand or sit in the sun for about two hours waiting for it to dry, after which I grease my scalp," he added. The Rastafarian, who resides in Middleton, St Thomas, said he nearly lost his locks while he was imprisoned in the United States of America. "That was a big problem. They wanted to cut off my dreads, but when you check it out now, me and the other dreadlocks Jamaicans wrote a petition to the judge in New York stating that this is our religion and we don't think it is right for them to cut off our hair.

Thankfully, the judge approved," Rickards related. Rickards stated that his spiritual awakening began long before he started to grow his dreadlocks. He further noted that the beginning of his journey was not an easy one, as men with dreadlocks were often harassed by the police in the 1960s. "Back in those days, there used to be a lot of robberies, so the police would be on patrol looking for the criminals. As Rastas, we were often harassed and beaten due to the discrimination we received. They used to think bad things of us, like all we do is smoke weed and rob people," Rickards indicated. (Jamaica Gleaner)

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Matelot mom attends same school with her kids in Trinidad

Michelle Charles at her home in Arouca, Trinidad (TT Guardian photo)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Michelle Charles was a promising young student at Toco Composite School whose academic achievements regularly made her family proud, until, at age 15, she got pregnant. Just weeks before writing her O-Level examinations, she dropped out of school and married her boyfriend, Perfield Meltz. In the years that followed, Charles and her husband had five children—Nigel, Chantell, Kristelle, Ruel and Kasel—and her chances of completing her education and achieving her dream of becoming a teacher looked dim as she became weighed down with her responsibilities as wife and mother. But 11 years after dropping out of school, Charles did the unthinkable and at age 26 she enrolled in the Matelot

Community College, put back on a school uniform and began attending classes full-time at the same school where her first son had been placed after sitting the Common Entrance exam. She was placed in a Form Four class where she began preparing for the CXC exams in seven subjects— Maths, Literature, Social Studies, Human and Social Biology, Principles of Business, Agricultural Science and Spanish. “Going back to school was tough. Matelot is a small village and people said things which were hurtful and mean when I started. Even my classmates provoked me by throwing words—not in my face, but within earshot to see how I would react. I had become a target in the community I had grew to love,” she related. Her son Nigel, who was in Form One, was

also being teased. When Charles began placing first in most of her exams, her classmates began to compete with her. At the end of two years, Charles got six CXC passes. She was valedictorian at the school’s graduation and copped the top two awards for most outstanding and most consistent student. Charles’ success at O-Levels gave her the motivation to press on further with her studies. Encouraged by that success, she said, “I decided to try my hands at A-Levels, which was an even bigger task.”

Thrown in the deep end

Charles applied for a teaching position at the Ministry of Education and was posted at the Grand Riviere Anglican School in 1998. From there, she was transferred to Cumana AC School, then finally settled at St Mary’s Anglican School in Tacarigua. In 2010, Charles obtained a bachelor’s degree in public-sector management at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine. The following year, her husband died. Now a grandmother of one, she plans to pursue her master’s in sociology at UWI. (TT Guardian)

U.S. lists five Caribbean coral species under threat

he United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has listed five Caribbean coral species as threatened, saying that they will be afforded Endangered Species Act (ESA) protection. NOAA, however, said none of the 20 species identified were endangered and that 15 of the newly listed species occur in the IndoPacific. The five Caribbean species listed as threatened are: mountainous star coral, pillar coral, rough cactus coral, lobed star coral and boulder star coral. Two other Caribbean coral species, elkhorn and staghorn, were listed as threatened in 2006. “The Caribbean corals are already protected in the sanctuary and by state laws, but the ESA affords additional

The Caribbean corals are already protected in the sanctuary

protections,” said NOAA coral expert Stephania Bolden, noting that, for example, people are not allowed to import listed species. In addition, she said the ESA requires other U.S. federal agencies to consult with NOAA on projects “so as not to jeopardise the species” adding that “the ESA makes federal dollars available to partner with the state for conservation and research efforts”. As part of this “rule-

Junkanoo at heart of Bahamas carnival

making process,” NOAA identified a number of threats to coral ecosystems. It said some of the most serious threats include impacts related to climate change, rising ocean temperatures, ocean acidification and disease, ecological effects of fishing, and poor land-use practices. NOAA said it will work with partners on mitigation measures and recovery plans for the newly listed corals. (Antigua Observer)

The post-Lenten festival has several strengths that will give it a competitive advantage (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

A S S A U , BAHAMAS: Four events. One weekend. The Bahamians are opening up their air and seaports, offering revellers an opportunity to let loose in their islands from May 7 to 9, 2015. It is hoped that visitors from across the world will converge on the capital city, Nassau, and Grand Bahama (Freeport) for the four major events in the inaugural Bahamas Carnival, which will be infused with the traditional art of Junkanoo. A vision of the country's Prime Minister Perry Christie, Bahamas Carnival "is to stimulate sustainable economic opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the creative sector in our country," he told hundreds of guests at the event's launch at Pompey Square, Nassau, last Wednesday night.

According to Christie, a Junkanoo proponent, so far Bahamas Carnival has ignited Bahamians with creative talents of all sorts to combine for the opportunity to showcase their craft to the world. Standing firmly behind these talents, Christie is promising to make resources available to ensure the event's success. "It will stimulate year-round employment in the creative sector and positively impact our gross domestic product (GDP)," Christie said. Being staged under the umbrella of the National Festival Commission, Bahamas Carnival, which will be a collage of culture from the 700-plus islands, will be a festive occasion for Bahamians to "let loose after Lent". The post-Lenten festival has several strengths that will give it a compet-

itive advantage, Christie stated, even while admitting that Bahamas Carnival joins a long list of some 200 similar events worldwide. Of the four major events JunkaMania, which is on Thursday, May 7, is a grand explosion of Junkanoo orchestras, music and other folk forms, such as drumming and dance, on the biggest Junkanoo stage in the world, claim the organisers. This will be followed on Friday, May 8, by Music Masters, a concert at which Bahamas' top contemporary artistes will compete before a global audience while sharing the stage with an A-list of international recording artistes. On Saturday, May 9, the organisers have planned Midnight Rush to take centrestage between midnight and 6 a.m. (Jamaica Gleaner)

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EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Naya Zamana 19 “A Royal Twist” delivered all that it promised and much more when the production was held at the National Cultural Centre in Guyana last Saturday evening before a packed audience. The production, which was directed, choreographed and written by Dr Vindhya Persaud, took the packed National Cultural Centre on a memorable journey that will remain with them for a long time. The show told the story of young Director Riya Patel’s debut attempt at

Guyana's President Donald Ramotar and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds with the cast and Directors of Naya Zamana 19 at the conclusion of the production

the historical love story of “Saleem Anarkali”, straddling the present and past

seamlessly. The Dharmic Nritya Sangh’s, Dr Indhira

Noman Ahmad and Zahrah Alli during one of the numerous dance routines at the National Cultural Centre last Saturday evening when Naya Zamana 19 was hosted before a packed audience

Harry excelled in her role as Riya Patel, an actress who was retiring to take on the role of film Director. From sizzling dance numbers to high drama scenes, she captivated the audience with her sheer energy and liveliness. U.S.-based choreographer Noman Ahmad earned himself many Guyanese fans as he transitioned effortlessly between the modern day Sid Sharma, whose main aim was to tease and annoy Director Riya Patel, and the romantic Prince Saleem of the past. His acting and dance were simply excellent. Zahrah Alli was ethereal in the role of the famous Mughal court dancer Anarkali. Exuding natural grace and beauty, she not only captivated

Prince Saleem but the audience as well. The role of the ghostly Prince Saleem was played by newcomer Ravi, who displayed old world charm and romantic spirit. Veteran actor Nazim Hussain was also outstanding as Emperor Akbar, who disapproved of the love between Saleem and Anarkali and plotted to remove Anarkali from his son’s life. E-Networks Emerging Voices winner Vishalie Sukram received thunderous applause as she made her debut at the National Cultural Centre. Top five contestants, Aamir Khan, played the role of narrator and his presentations were interspersed with appropriate songs. Music was provided by the talented E-Networks Orchestra.

The music for the show was both fabulous appropriate. The show was made much more spectacular by magnificent costumes and sets which were simply amazing. The audience expressed delight as each fabulous set was revealed. There were palaces, temples, abstract designs, abandoned theatres and perhaps the most spectacular, a beautiful garden. It was like magic as group after group of dancers emerged on stage, seemingly just after they had left, in colourful and glittering costumes. The costumes and sets for the show, which were designed by Trishala Simantini Persaud, captured the grand Mughal era of Saleem Anakali as well as present day. (Guyana Times)

Increase in visitors to Caribbean fuelled by U.S. confidence

ORONTO, CANADA: Dancehall artiste Diesel High has his sights set firmly on breaking out in his native Jamaica's vibrant entertainment scene. Now residing in Canada, Diesel High has built up a following for himself in the cooler climes, but is very much aware that if he is to make the final cut, his music will have to grab the minds and hearts of Jamaicans. "Jamaica is where the action is. You have to rise the thing in Jamaica to impact the world. We are the capital of dancehall entertainment," he said. And Diesel High certainly has the talent to make an impact in the competitive dancehall field. The single ‘Nah Stop Rave’ has been gaining ground in Jamaica and its growing popularity has been boosted by a video that is being rotated on local cable channels with increasing regularity. He has followed up the So Unique-produced ‘Nah Stop Rave’ with the witty Kush which appears on the Canada-based Jenyus label, Pop Champagne, Ghetto Youth, Move Your Body and Hold Mi which has an edited and a raw version. Born in the cools hills of Mandeville, Diesel High, whose real name is Garfield Swaby, left for Canada at age 15. But his exposure to Jamaican culture had a tremendous effect on his psyche, and four years later he took the decision to embark on a career in entertainment. "I was born with a love for music, but that manifested in me about age 19," he said. Life offers several challenges and Diesel High's faith was tested severely after he received several

Diesel High

injuries in a motor vehicle accident in Canada. "I hurt my mouth and lost confidence," he said. But the love of music proved so powerful that after a few years he was up to his old tricks. "I took a different road but I dropped right back into it," he said. Diesel High is managed by the Feonia Williamsled Reggae Fuel Entertainment and Productions Company. He is currently doing the rounds on the local circuit, building his ties and networking in an effort to further cement his place as one of the rising names in dancehall music. "I see myself as a unique being on a special mission. I don't try to follow anybody. I set my own pattern," he said. (Jamaica Observer)

he Caribbean recorded a rise in visitor arrivals during the first half of this year, keeping pace with the world average. The region enjoyed a 4.3 percent increase during the first six months of the 2014, much in line with the world average of 4.7 percent, the director of research and information technology at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), Winfield Griffith, announced recently. Griffith revealed that just under 14 million long-stay tourists visited the Caribbean between January and June, with nearly half this number ( 6.87 million) coming from the United States of America compared to 6.61 million during the same period in 2013. This represents a 3.9 percent rise in arrivals from the U.S. market. “There is enough evidence to suggest that there is growing economic confidence in the Region’s

biggest neighbour and this is releasing much pent-up travel demand caused by a long recessionary period,” Griffith stated. The CTO research head stated that just 21 countries in the Region were able to breakdown their tourist arrivals by destination in time for the report. From the most recent figures it was clear that more Europeans and Canadians are gravitating to the Region showing increases of 6.0 percent and 4.3 percent respectively. For the winter period represented by the first four months of the year, at least five countries reported double digit growth. These destinations continue to power through the current summer showing signs of doing exceptionally well this year. Griffith also announced that the cruise sector enjoyed an eight percent increase in passenger arrivals to reach 13.1 million after the first two quarters of 2014. (CTO)

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TT students win Nasa scholarships P

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Two students from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine, have won scholarships to participate in a four-month internship programme at Nasa’s Ames Research Center in Mountain View, California, beginning this week. Jason Renwick, 19, from Santa Cruz and Stefan Hosein, 21, from Chaguanas, were awarded the internships following a rigorous competition which included more than 20 of the nation’s brightest local students studying science, technology, engineering and mathe-

matics (Stem). This is the first Nasa International Internship Programme (NASA I2) with TT. It was launched locally in February and is the result of a partnership between Nasa and the National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (Niherst). Other partners include the U.S. Embassy, Portof-Spain, and UWI. The two students will follow an intense study programme in their fields of specialisation. Renwick will research electronics prognostics, while Hosein’s work will focus on biologically-inspired machine intelligence. They

From left, U.S. Embassy public affairs officer Stephen Weeks, Stefan Hosein, Jason Renwick and Niherst president Maureen Manchouck (Photo courtesy the U.S. Embassy in TT)

will be conducting cutting-edge research under the mentorship of senior scientists at

Nasa, as well as attending lectures and seminars at leading research centres, visiting state-

of-the-art laboratories, and interacting with some of the world’s best minds in Stem.

“I feel honoured to be chosen for this incredible opportunity fulfilling a lifelong dream of mine which began when I joined the Nasa kids club at the age of seven,” Renwick said. “I hope to make the most of this opportunity for the benefit of all involved, to enhance my personal development, as well as my future studies and career as an engineer.” Hosein plans to pursue a doctorate in the field of artificial intelligence. He said, “I hope to bring back all the knowledge I gain from this unique experience and help build the field of computer science in TT.” (TT Guardian)

The ancient tradition of the Carib Parishara dance folklore on demand

Romola Lucas

EW YORK, U.S.A: The Caribbean Film Academy (CaFA), an organisation based in Brooklyn, New York, is aiming to promote Caribbean folklore through its new Studio Anansi Films. Guyanese Romola Lucas, who co-founded CaFA in 2012, told Jamaican media that Studio Anansi Films will expose short and feature-length dramas as well as animated films and documentaries using the fledgling Video-OnDemand (VOD) medium. VOD is CaFA's latest venture. The company currently shows Caribbean productions on its CineCaribés film blog and through its

monthly CaFA Film Nights screenings in Brooklyn. "One of the organisation's goals is to provide exposure for film-makers and an outlet through which their work could be shared within the region as well as worldwide," Lucas said. Some of the films CaFA has shown to date are: 'Better Mus' Come (Jamaica), 'WAR Stories: Walter Anthony Rodney' (Guyana), 'The Coming of Org' (St. Lucia), 'Hoghole' (St. Vincent), 'Auntie' (Barbados) and 'Noka' out of Trinidad and Tobago. Lucas said film interests from Dominica, St. Lucia, Jamaica, Trinidad, Carriacou, Guyana, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have signed on with Studio Anansi Films. She hopes the site will spur demand for Caribbean films and help make the Region's industry financially viable. "With the growth of sites like Netflix, Hulu and the number of films on iTunes, it is evident people, including those in the Caribbean, are consuming more and more content online. We hope the platform will be a convenient way for viewers to access Caribbean film content while online," she said. (Jamaica Observer)

with the ‘Hummingbird dance’, which signifies the hummingbird (Tukui in Makusi language) and its connection to the fish in rivers and ponds. This dance helps to strengthen the Parishara dance to further ensure that there will be bountiful meat and fish to feed the people. According to the Wapisiana tribe, the Parishara dance was performed when meat was in short supply. This is because the dance is part of their hunting ritual that calls the wild animals, particularly the peccary, out of the forest into the savannah. By dance, songs, musical accompaniment, mimicking actions of the animals, painting and decorating the body and mu-

Modern-day Amerindians still upkeep the traditions of the Parishara dance

UYANA:The Parishara dance is an Amerindian dancedone to form a bond between man and nature, and this, the indigenous people believe, will bring bountiful food for their villages. Dancers wear long flowing costumes made from either ‘kokerite palm’ (scientific name Maximiliana regia) or ‘Ite palm’ (scientific name Mauritia flexuso) leaves. The leaf dress relates to the palm trees found along the edge of the forest and in the savannah swamps. It is the ripe fruits of these palms that attract the forest animals, particularly the peccary (wild

hogs) herds. The dancers show their connection to the peccary herds by using the musical instrument, flageolets, which make noises similar to the peccary. The flageolets also have representations of the animals painted on them, as well as wooden animal and fertility figures fixed to the ends of the instrument. The Parishara dance and songs all relate to the various forest animals and the acquiring of meat for the people. This is done by appealing to the ‘Master of Animals’ to send out his children (animals) from the forest. The dance is frequently performed along

A Parishara dancer dressed in costume

sical instruments, the animals are enticed out of the forest within the reach of the villagers. In order to pre-

serve this dance, form which was said to be a slowly dying tradition, in March 2002, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and UNESCO collaborated to launch a project, ‘Preservation and Revitalisation of Community Art Forms’, designed to study the intangible cultural heritage of Guyana and was divided into four areas, one of which was the Macushi/Wapisiana customs. Contact was made with the Macushi village of Karasabai in south Pakaraimas sub-district and the Wapisiana village of Maruranau in south sub-district. Both villages enthusiastically embraced the project and the end result was a Parishara dance was held in each village in September 2002. Notable was the fact that Parishara dances of this size, which involved most of the villagers, had not been held in both villages for more than 20 years. It was the first time most of the younger generations in those villages witnessed such an event. In 2013, in Yupukari, Rupununi, a campfire event was held, attended by villagers, where cultural practices such as the Parishara dance, the Hummingbird dance and other traditional practices were showcased. The village aims to make this event a regular feature on its list of cultural activities. (Information provided by the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology)

feature

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology…

Preserving indigenous culture in Guyana for over 40 years

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Founded in 1974 from the collection of the late Guyanese archaeologist, Dr Denis Williams, the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology and Art History (as it was originally called) was the first Museum of Anthropology in the English speaking Caribbean. Although it was planned to site the museum in the town of Bartica, this was changed at the last moment due to the fuel crisis of 1974, which caused the original funds allocated to be withdrawn. In 1980, the museum, now renamed the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, was moved to its present location at 61 Main Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown (next to the President of Guyana’s official residence). Following this move, the collections of Sir Everard Im Thurn, Dr Walter Roth and Mr John J Quelch were transferred from the Guyana National Museum. Dr Williams’ archaeological collections were also transferred from the Department of Culture. A typological study from the collections of Dr Betty J Meggers and the late Dr Clifford Evans of the Smithsonian Institution was donated to the museum and in 1991, Guyanese Cultural Anthropologist, Dr George P Mentore, donated an ethnographic collection from the WaiWai of southern Guyana. The museum’s collections eventually included excavated artefacts from all of

Museum's second floor with exhibits on display

the ten administrative regions of Guyana as well as small ethnographic and archaeological collections from elsewhere. It is generally believed that John Sharps (18451913) was the architect of the building, which was constructed before 1890. Duncan McRae Hutson, a Guyanese barrister-atlaw and legislator, bought it in 1891. When McRae Hutson’s wife passed away in 1942, he sold the building to the government of British Guiana. The government used it to house the Teachers Training College and later, the Attorney General’s Chambers. In 1976, the National Trust of Guyana gazetted the building as a national historic monument, and in 1978 the building was acquired by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Social Development. It was then decided that the building be used as a museum. The Walter Roth Museum was officially opened to the

public in 1982. This museum is named in honour of Walter Edmund Roth (1861-1933). Roth was a noted anthropologist, administrator and surgeon who was born and educated in England. After qualifying as a surgeon at St. Thomas Hospital, London, he followed his two elder brothers to Australia. There, he held a succession of appointments including teaching and surgeon positions. But it was with his later work on Australian ethnology that he made his mark. After serving successfully for several years as an Anthropologist and Protector of the Aborigines, he eventually moved to British Guiana in 1907 where he accepted an appointment as Government Medical Officer, Stipendiary Magistrate and Deputy Protector of Indians in the Pomeroon district. In 1920, he was appointed commissioner of the Rupununi.

After many years of service in the interior of British Guiana, he finally retired in 1928 to become Curator of the Museum of the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society (now renamed the Guyana National Museum) and

Additional Studies of the Arts, Crafts and Customs of the Guiana Indians was published by the Bureau of American Ethnology, Washington. Walter Roth died in Georgetown in 1933. The first Director of the Walter Roth Museum was Dr Denis Williams who served from its founding in 1974 up to his death in 1998. Williams, originally an artist and writer, had first been exposed to archaeology in the Sudan. This interest was rekindled when he returned to Guyana in 1968 to live in the Mazaruni district. He was eventually able to pursue this interest fulltime when he was appointed Director of the newly created Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology and Art History in 1974. Williams’ primary interests as a researcher were on Amerindian petro-

Showcase on basketry

Government Archivist. Due to his strong interest in anthropology, his work resulted in two major monographs on the Arts, Crafts and Customs of the Guiana Indians published in 1924 and in 1929

glyphs (rock engravings) and the paleoclimatic and archaeological investigations of the shell middens on the northwest coast of Guyana. His skill as a writer served him well with his scientific pa-

pers and articles, as well as his numerous works of fiction. In recognition of all his achievements, he received the Cacique Crown of Honour and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, in 1989. Over the years, the Walter Roth Museum has been engaged in numerous research programmes. Of these, the most important was the archaeological research conducted by Williams throughout the ten administrative regions of Guyana. This work yielded much valuable information on the history, pre-history and past and present culture by the Walter Roth Museum in partnership with foreign researchers and students. Also of note is the museum’s outreach programme, Junior Archaeology. In this museum programme, staff regularly corresponds with children across Guyana and the Caribbean. Members receive publications and newsletters specifically designed for Junior Archaeology. The museum also has an active publishing programme. Its annual ‘Journal of Archaeology and Anthropology’, which is overseen by a scientific advisory board, was first published in 1978. Since that time, apart from journals, several other publications and leaflets, dealing with exhibitions, ethnography, prehistory and the Junior Archaeology programme, have also been produced. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Jamaica’s National Gallery celebrates 40 years K

I N G S T O N , JAMAICA: The National Gallery of Jamaica (NGJ) kicked off its 40th anniversary celebrations Sunday with the opening of a retrospective exhibition. "The task we have set ourselves with In Retrospect: Forty Years of the National Gallery of Jamaica is to tell the story of that story, examining with a critical eye the role the NGJ has played in establishing how Jamaican art is understood," explained Dr Veerle Poupeye, executive director of the NGJ. "The exhibition consists mainly of key

works from our collection and features artists as diverse as John Dunkley, Edna Manley, Ebony G Patterson, Isaac Mendez Belisario, Mallica 'Kapo' Reynolds, Albert Huie, Barrington Watson, Eugene Hyde, Karl Parboosingh, Leasho Johnson, Carl Abrahams, George Robertson, David Boxer, Laura Facey, Maria LaYacona, Petrona Morrison, Omari Ra, Cecil Baugh, Matthew McCarthy, Everald Brown, Norma Rodney Harrack, A Duperly and Sons, Osmond Watson, Renee Cox, Marlon James and Colin

Garland." The exhibition is accompanied by an illustrated catalogue publication with essays by Alissandra Cummins, Annie Paul and Veerle Poupeye. As it presently stands, the National Gallery is the oldest and largest national art museum in the Anglophone Caribbean and its reach was further expanded recently with the opening of National Gallery West at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre. When the original 262 paintings and sculptures from the Institute of Jamaica collection

arrived in 1974, the Gallery inherited a set of artworks but not a cohesive art history and thus it became part of the NGJ's mandate to articulate a Jamaican art history. Since then, the gallery has told the story about Jamaican art through several exhibitions and publications, through major donations and debates that have surrounded the National Gallery from its earliest years. The In Retrospect exhibition will continue until November 15, 2014. (Jamaica Observer)

Albert Huie’s The Vendor is among the works being featured in Jamaica’s National Gallery’s 40th anniversary retrospective exhibition (Jamaica Observer photo)

Bollywood

WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Amitabh Bachchan gets 10 million Twitter followers

e g a s t a r A m i t a b h Bachchan, an avid user of social media, has amassed a massive following of over 10 million users on Twitter. His target is to double the figure. "10 MILLION!! ON TWITTER!! YEEAAAHH!! Thank you all that follow me! Next target 20," Amitabh tweeted on Sunday. The most followed Twitter user in India, the 71-year-old is known for his versatility on the platform. He keeps his fans entertained by frequently tweeting about issues of national and internation-

al importance, sharing moments from his personal and professional life, and connecting with his fans personally by replying to them directly on Twitter, through over 33,000 Tweets till now. The actor is also

known for initiating new trends on the platform and had recently launched an initiative called #BachchanBol via which every Wednesday, the actor shares fun and interesting facts with his followers. (TOI)

C Mary Kom has charted her own path to glory. Now, the eponymous film, ‘Mary Kom’, starring Priyanka Chopra and helmed by debutant director

Omung Kumar, is also scripting its own success story. The world premiere of the movie will happen on September 4, on the opening night of Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Based on the true story of the Indian world boxing champion, it is the first Hindi film to be screened on the opening night of the film festival. AjitAndhare, COO, Viacom 18 Motion Pictures says, "MaryKom's screening at TIFF is a privilege and to have that on the eve of its worldwide release makes for the perfectsetting. North

America is one of our key markets outside of India and we are thrilled to open at Toronto." Priyanka, who essays the role of the boxing champ on screen, is excited about walking the red carpet. The National Award-winner enthuses, "I'm proud to present Mary Kom's life on celluloid to the world. With the film being selected to premiere at TIFF, it's a huge moment for the entire cast and crew of this film." 'Mary Kom', produced by Viacom18 Motion Pictures and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, releases September 5. (TOI)

Imran Khan and Sridevi’s wife to raise funds Japanese fan base on the rise for kids afflicted with cancer

ridevi's ‘English

ollywood heartthrobs Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif''s upcoming film 'Bang Bang’’s promo has been winning appreciation from all sides. Be it the aam janta or Bollywood biggies, everyone has been bowled over by the action scenes and Hrithik-Kat's chemistry and the latest to join Hrithik's admirer's list is Bollywood's Mr. perfectionist Aamir Khan. Aamir Khan took to micro-blogging site twitter to praise Hrithik, he wrote, "I wish I could dance half as well as Hrithik! I really loved

the new song of ‘Bang Bang’! And the ‘Bang Bang’ trailer is outstanding! Hritik and Katrina look like a million bucks." (TOI)

Vinglish’ has had a golden run in Japan since its release on June 28 this year across 33 screens. Following an all-around appreciation from the local audience, it was then released in another 17 screens, taking the total screen count to 50 across 20 cities in Japan. Prior to this, Aamir Khan starrer ‘3 Idiots’ had aroused such a warm response in Japan, making English Vinglish the second Bollywood film to

get such an ovation. Reacting to the film's success across the shores, Sridevi says, "I'm overwhelmed with all the praise the film continues to receive worldwide. A big thank you to Gauri Shinde once again for making such a beautiful movie." (TOI)

Ranveer is too busy to tie the knot with Deepika

anveer Singh has a string of movies to shoot, and the actor said he is not ready to get married now and even don’t have the time to think about it. He is totally engrossed in work and it’s only acting going in his mind. Ranveer who is dating Deepika Padukone is currently shooting for Zoya Akhtar’s ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’ and soon after that he will start shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Bajirao Mastani’ opposite his ladylove and actress Deepika Padukone.

When asked about marriage, the 29-year-old actor was quoted as saying, "I don’t even think about it, as of now. I am only thinking about which movies should I do that will make a mark, and what parts I should play that will become memorable. I am really enjoying the process. I am exploring my creativity and myself, as an artiste, by trying new things. I am caught up in it and things are moving fast for me. So I don’t have the time or headspace to think about such things."(TOI)

mran Khan and Avantika, proud new parents to a baby girl, Imara, have decided to share their largesse of good fortune. The couple has committed to an initiative by the Goenka Trust that works with the paediatric ward of the Tata Memorial Hospital to help children afflicted with cancer. The Khans

have pledged to raise awareness and funds for the initiative now that their lives "revolve around the growth and wellness of their daughter" and they value the difference financial and infrastructural support can make to the affected families. In this case, it is not only the thought that counts, but the effort as well. (TOI)

hollywood

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com |

WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

Lindsay Lohan uses hypnotherapy to quit smoking

‘

ollywood star Brad Pitt has reportedly turned into a singer too at his wedding to fiancée Angelina Jolie. The longtime partners exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony in France last week, reported Us magazine. Pitt, 50, apparently hummed the wedding march, while providing the background music when Jolie, 39, walked down the aisle. The couple had a

ctress Kate Hudson has slammed past eating disorder rumours, saying she will never have such health hazard.

simple wedding as their kids were wedding planners for them from baking a cake to helping their parents write

their vows. Jolie wore a gown, which had her kids’ drawings and artworks on it and the veil. (Indian Express)

The ‘Something Borrowed’ actress, stressed her desire is to be a good role model to young women, reported Us magazine. “If there is one thing I will nev-

er have, it is an eating disorder,” the mother of two said. The 35-year-old daughter of Goldie Hawn also addressed how, after gaining 70 pounds during her first pregnancy, she realises how important it is to feel loved. “I want girls to love themselves. I want them to feel good about who they are… The thing is, I’m lucky because I was loved (during that time). But I have seen so many young women who can’t feel good about themselves because they just don’t have that love.” (Indian Express)

Mean Girls’ star Lindsay Lohan has reportedly turned to hypnotherapy in a bid to quit cigarettes ahead of her stage debut during the end of this month. The 28-year-old actress turned to alternative medicine to kick her nicotine addiction, reported Contactmusic. “Lindsay knows all eyes will be on her and she’s worried if she starts to crave nicotine on stage, it’ll put her off. Some people may not be-

lieve in the powers of hypnosis, or think it’s all about swinging a watch about, but Lindsay is willing to try anything

to make sure she’s a hit,” a source said. The starlet has already gone to rehab six times. When it was announced that Lindsay would be making her stage debut in London this year, the actress admitted that she was nervous on opening night. “I’ll be freaking out on the first day. I either do really well under pressure or really horribly. There’s no in-between,” she had said. (Indian Express)

Apple: Some nude pics were taken from Jennifer Lawrence and other stars’ accounts

pple said Tuesday that hackers obtained nude photos of Jennifer Lawrence and other female celebrities by pilfering images from individual accounts rather than through a broader attack on the company’s services. Meanwhile, numerous sharing sites removed images of the stars apparently in response to copyright complaints. However, experts say there is no way to fully scrub the photos from the Internet and the images could keep popping up in the future, forcing celebrities to file repeated complaints as they play a cy-

ber-version of the arcade game “whack-a-mole.” Apple said its engineers have determined that hackers breached individual accounts and didn’t obtain general access to a pair of the com-

pany’s services — iCloud and Find my iPhone. The tech giant said it released the results after conducting 40 hours of investigation. Law enforcement inquiries likely will take days or weeks to complete. The FBI offered no details on its efforts to identify people responsible for stealing the images that were posted on imagesharing site Imgur.com, the social networking sites Reddit and Twitter, and other websites. But the agency said Monday it was aware of the breach and addressing the matter. (Indian Express)

stars Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Monique Coleman, and Corbin Bleu all gathered for a dinner in Los Angeles last weekend, reported Us magazine. The reunion was in honour of superfan Camilla Simon, who

won a special Prize contest and was given the opportunity to spend the evening with the Disney stars. “‘Kenny’s Angels’ giving so much face. There would be no ‘us’ without this guy! He brings the magic

Thx KO for being the glue. Love you,” former ‘Dancing With the Stars’ contestant Coleman, who played book smart Taylor McKessie in HSM, captioned one photo with famed director Ortega. (Indian Express)

Princess Diana’s wedding gown to be given to sons William and Harry

he bridal gown, which Princess Diana wore when she wed Britain’s Prince Charles in 1981, is set to be handed over to the couple’s sons William and Harry, 17 years after her tragic death. The dress, designed by Elizabeth Emanuel, is one of the most iconic wedding gowns in recent history. The elaborate white gown notably features ‘thousands of pearls, silk layers and a 25-ft train’, reported Daily Telegraph. Most recently, the gown was exhibited twice a year at Althorp, the Spencer family estate, as

part of an exhibit called ‘Diana: A Celebration’. Besides the wedding gown, both William and Harry will receive other items that were featured in the exhibit, including their late mother’s diamond tiaras, family paintings, letters, home movies and additional pieces from her wardrobe. Harry will also receive 10 million pounds from his mother’s estate upon turning 30, which will be placed in a family trust. His older brother also received an inheritance on his 30th birthday in 2012. (Indian Express)

ight years after the original ‘High School Musical’ aired on TV, many of the cast and crew of the hit movie got together for a special reunion. Director Kenny Ortega, choreographer Chucky Klapow, and

feature WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

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Mr Guyana International Pageant launched G

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The 11 contestants vying for the Mr Guyana International title were officially unveiled to the public last Friday evening at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown. The contenders who were present at the launch were Stowell Betham, Paul Charles, Kurt Walcott, Kevin Bhagrat, Colwyn Abrams, Trevon Frenty, Christon Pollard, Kevin Smith, Raphael October and Ryan Washington. Alexander Fiedtkou, the other contestant was absent due to unforeseen circumstances. Decked in purple shirts and back tailored pants, the contestants showed off their masculinity as they presented themselves to the media and special invites. Also present at the launch of the Mr Guyana International Pageant were some of

the sponsors and well wishers. The concept of the pageant came about after it was realised over the years that there has been a decline in the morale of men in society due to their involvement in sexual assaults, armed robberies and domestic violence, among other social ills. It was also noticeable that many of the social responsibilities expected to be portrayed and acted out by men have been significantly reduced and somewhat replaced by education through a new trend of music, movies and fashion. In addressing the gathering, Coordinator Paul Burnett recalled growing up in a single parent home, a family structure that led to many disadvantages. He recalled being a victim of rape, mental and physical abuse.

The delegates of the Mr Guyana International Competition at the launch last Friday evening at the Pegasus Hotel in Guyana

At age 11, he was fortunate to have a father figure in his life but at that time, he was withdrawn and embarrassed to the point of wanting to commit suicide. With this in mind, he promised to do something before he dies to empower men, those who have gone through

similar situations. Hence, the conceptualisation of the competition, to allow men to find their identities in society. He explained that five of the 11 contestants will be representing Guyana at the international competitions–Mr International,

Mr Global International, Mr World, Mr Caribbean International and Mr Caribbean. It will be a perfect opportunity to showcase Guyanese men as positive and influential people in society. Meanwhile, the local competition will have several segments

to test the contestants’ strengths. These include a community spirit building Fun Day on October 19, a swimwear and fashion challenge on October 24, a talent and a question and answer aspect on October 29. The grand finale will be held on November 2. (Guyana Times)

Kaci Fennell crowned Miss Barbados tourism sector Universe Jamaica 2014 now an export industry!

Kaci Fennell (centre) is flanked by second runner-up Kimar Muir (left) and first-runner up Roshelle McKinley (Jamaica Observer photo)

I N G S T O N , JAMAICA: Kaci Fennell won the Hyundai Miss Universe Jamaica 2014 title last Saturday at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium, Jamaica College in St Andrew. A popular winner, the 21-year-old Mico University College student was selected over 18 other competitors. “It has been tiring but I put my all into this. I really worked hard towards this title and now I am completely elated,” Fennell told Jamaican media shortly after being crowned. She said the achievements of former Miss Jamaica and Miss Jamaica Universe Sandra Foster inspired her to enter the pageant. Nineteen-year-old Roshelle McKinley, niece of former Miss Jamaica World contestant, Bernadette McKinley, who finished third in the 1978 pageant, finished second. Commercial pilot Kimar Muir was third with fourth and fifth places being taken

by Saneta Kerr and Dianne Brown, respectively. Fennell won a cash prize of Ja$250,000, a Hyundai i10 car courtesy of title sponsors Key Motors. She will represent Jamaica at the Miss Universe pageant, scheduled for later this year. Prior to a show-stopping performance from singer Gem Myers, the finalists appeared in swimwear, then evening wear, followed by a questionand-answer segment. Shanice Rerrie, Christine Suraj, Davia Lynch, Diedre McKenzie, and Zandrea Bailey also made the top 10. Sectional prizes went to: Most Photogenic— Shantana Folkes Congeniality—Saneta Kerr Essence Style Award— Kimar Muir Runaway— Saneta Kerr Best in Swimwear—Dianne Brown Best in Evening Gown— Kaci Fennell Most Aware— Kaci Fennell Alturism Charity Award—Princess Fraser. (Jamaica Observer)

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Barbados is to legally declare its tourism sector an export industry, as part of two major developments which will radically transform the sector in that eastern Caribbean island. In the second development announced recently by Finance Minister Christopher Sinckler, all local tourism investors will benefit from the unprecedented incentives negotiated by leading Caribbean hotelier, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart’s Sandals Resorts International (SRI). The decision to declare the tourism industry as an export industry is something Stewart had himself championed in Jamaica, arguing that it would empower the sector to compete more substantially with the industry worldwide and bring greater benefits to the local economy. Sinckler announced a comprehensive and permanent overhaul of the country’s tourism incentive legislation which would recognise tourism as an export industry, during a site visit of the Sandals Barbados Resort, now undergoing large-scale upgrade for

SRI Chairman Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart gestures as he conduct a site tour of the Sandals Barbados Resort with Barbados’ Finance Minister Richard Sinckler (fourth left), Tourism Minister Richard Sealy (third left), and Senator Irene Sandiford-Garner (Jamaica Observer photo)

a January 2015 opening on the island’s southcoast. “What we are going to do for hoteliers in Barbados, for tourism operators, is not a transient waving of the pen or signing of a document by the Minister of Finance under 67 (b) of the Income Tax Act,” said Sinckler. “The concessions which Sandals got, all the others will get but they will get it permanently, in permanent legislation that they call on each and every time they require it rather

than having to write the Minister of Finance every other time they’re doing upgrades to a property to get it,” he added. The legislation, which the minister indicated would resemble the menu of concessions offered to Sandals, would therefore allow for tax relief of up to 40 years on tourism inputs, including food and beverage imports. Investments SRI is pumping US$350 million and its vaunted Sandals and Beaches brands into the

Barbadian economy to operate two financially challenged resorts– he 260-room Almond Causirina, at Dover in Christ Church and the 460-room Almond Beach Village at St Peter. Sinckler also pointed out that Sandals would not merely bring more rooms but would inspire elevated standard levels in the country’s tourism sector. He suggested that the new legislation would transform the industry in an unprecedented manner. (Jamaica Observer)

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WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The birth of Guyana’s first ever Miss Global International Guyana franchise is taking shape as the Queen Onesha Hutson commences training and charity work for the international pageant scheduled for December 2-6 in beautiful Montego Bay, Jamaica. Miss Global International Guyana Onesha Hutson was treated to various media interviews and also was a special invitee to the just concluded Guyana Festival after her crowning. Working closely with her designers Jason Shurland, Sonia Noel, Mwanza Glen and others with talented photographers Ronald Nanlall, Saajid Hasani and Rupesh Singh, she managed to successfully produce two stunning photo shoots with two more in the making. Commencing her charity contributions Hutson, along with her team, will be visiting

Onesha Hutson in costume

the Saheed Girls Orphanage this Sunday spending the day, having lunch, discussing concerns and also pampering the girls with back to school goodies before the new school year commences.

She has adopted the home as her charity to work with and more so, to be a role model for the girls, counselling them on everyday issues and lending that helping hand as their big sister.

Onesha Hutson

She will also be working closely with homeless persons on the streets, giving them a voice and also supplying them with a meal, given that they are often forgotten by society. Hutson plans to lend her voice to build awareness and also convince others to help in the fight and to support those that are less fortunate since they are human beings too. Hutson has commenced training for all four segments of the pageant–talent, swimsuit, national costume and evening gown. Presently the beauty has already started to work with her personal gym trainer. The crowned queen was graciously invited as a special guest at the Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week event called “Making Styles” which is scheduled for October. She will be a guest of honour and the first Guyanese to be invited to this prestigious event. (Guyana Times)

Star of the Week

Iliana Edwards

Defying odds to fulfil her dream of becoming a doctor, Iliana Edwards has become a role model for indigenous youths wishing to follow in her footsteps. Iliana, from Paruima village, Upper Mazaruni in Region Seven, attended Paruima Primary School before excelling in her examinations to earn a government scholarship to attend Central High School in Georgetown. After graduating with eight subjects at CSEC, she worked for a year with USAID/Guyana HIV/AIDS Reduction and Prevention as a phlebotomist. Getting firsthand experience in the medical field would help her be more adept when studying medicine. Iliana applied for a government scholarship to study general medicine in Cuba. As a child, she dreamt of becoming a doctor and was elated when she was accepted to study in Cuba. Iliana, after seven years of study, was finally awarded her doctorate. She was overwhelmed with emotions, knowing that all her hard work helped with her success. The sacrifices she made were well worth it because she was able to accomplish what she had set out to do. Looking back at her journey, Iliana recalled the comments received from persons who doubted her abilities because of her ethnic background. However, she used those criticisms as motivation to achieve her goals, which she did expertly. Although the doctor has been exposed to different cultures, her indigenous heritage was never forsaken. She admires the unity in her village and enjoys being part of its activities. Iliana speaks the Arekuna language, although she is not fluent in it. Her mother, an Arekuna, and her father, an Akawaio, have always been her main supporters. She noted that they have repeatedly encouraged her to upkeep traditions, something she credits as her guide in becoming a doctor.

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WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Berbice Test cricketers honoured in Guyana

Rohan Kanhai

Guyana's President Donald Ramotar presents former Test player Basil Butcher with a plaque

E R B I C E , G U Y A N A : Eleven past and present Berbice Test cricketers, along with Guyana’s cricketing administrators past and present, have been honoured by the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB). A ceremony on Sunday which took the form of a dinner was held as part of the BCB’s 75th anniversary celebrations. The “Diamond Jubilee” event saw some of the past legends of Test cricket honoured. Speaking at the event, President Donald Ramotar noted that cricket is part of the nation’s life and congratulated the BCB on its achievement. “Cricket

Cricket administrator Carl Moore (right) honoured for his contribution to cricket development

has inspired writers and musicians, cricketers have grown to be more than just cricketers but also role models,” he said. Those honoured were Rohan Kanhai, George Trim, Azad Fudadin, Veerasammy Permaul, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Devendra Bishoo, Narsingh Deonarine, Mahendra Nagamootoo, Alvin Kallicharran, Joe Solomon and Basil Butcher. Public Relations Officer of the BCB Hilbert Foster noted that the first major achievement of the Board took place in 1948 when John Trim became the first Berbician to play Test cricket for the West

Indies. To date, 16 males and one female have followed in his footsteps. Speaking of some of the achievements of the BCB over the past 75 years, Foster said these include hosting the Pakistan International Airlines team in 1973 and 1975, and a three oversees tours by Berbice teams in 1974, 1978 and 1984. Over the last six years, the BCB has undergone a remarkable transformation which some have described as a revolution, Foster noted. The Board in 2009 formed a Special Events Committee which has been able to raise in excess of Gy$20 million since that time. This has allowed the game to continue at the club level, although the BCB has not received any sponsorship from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) for the past four years. Other activities planned by the BCB as part of the celebrations include renaming on the BCB office in New Amsterdam in honour of the late Leslie Amsterdam, erecting of a Hall of Fame for administrators, distribution of school bags, unveiling of Kanhai’s portrait, a musical evening, a televised panel discussion, handing out food hampers, an essay competition, renaming of pavilions, and a quiz competition. (Guyana Times)

TT’s George Bovell gets another 50m silver D

UBAI, UNITED A R A B EMIRATES: TT’s swimmer George Bovell continued his superb performances at the 2014 Fina/Mastbank Swimming World Cup, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, when he placed second in the men’s 50m freestyle final Monday. The feat improved his medal tally to four from six events which includes two gold and two silver. Competing from lane eight at the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Sports Complex, the 31-year-old Bovell had the slowest reac-

tion time of .71 seconds, but recovered for second spot in 21.39 seconds behind American Josh Schneider (21.11), while Finland’s Ari-Pekka Liukkonen got bronze in 21.29. Germany’s Steffen Deibler was fourth in 21.40, followed by Poland Konrad Czerniak (21.49), 34-year-old South African Roland Schoeman (21.52), Japan’s Kenta Ito (21.65) and Belarusian Yauhen Tsurkin (21.86). Last Thursday, Bovell, an Olympic and two-time World Championship bronze medallist, was also a silver medallist in the first

George Bovell (TT Guardian file photo)

leg of the event in Doha. Bovell now has a total of 33 medals at the World Cup. Last year, he won 13 medals (one gold, five silver, seven bronze), while

he captured 16 medals (nine gold and seven silver) in 2012. Monday, Bovell was almost a non-qualifier for the final when he finished third in the eighth

and final heat, in 21.95 seconds, for the joint eighth fastest qualifying time along with his Spanish training partner, Miguel Ozeki. However, the TT ace

was granted a spot in the final with a further swim off after Ozeki opted to focus on his participation in the backstroke event. The winner of the heat was Czerniak (21.59), with Liukkonen second in 21.75. On Sunday, Bovell, who had previously picked up four medals competing in Dubai, over the last two years, three silver and a bronze finally got gold, in the men’s 100m individual medley. Swimming from lane eight, Bovell raced home in 51.79 seconds ahead of American duo, Thomas Shields (52.14) and Cody Miller (52.46). (TT Guardian)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

Trini track star breaks national triple record in Virginia

I R G I N I A , USA: Ayanna Alexander, one of TT’s most consistent and decorated track athletes, produced the best triplejump performance of her career, on Sunday, when she rewrote her own national record at the 39th annual Potomac Valley Games in Alexandria, Virginia, with a 14.40-metre (wind +0.0) effort. The feat was a considerable 0.49m further than what it took for her to claim bronze at the Commonwealth Games in Scotland, in August. Alexander’s previous personal best was 14.15m which she achieved in May 2012, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port-of-Spain. Alexander, 32, who represented Ashburn, VA (her current residence), is the first and only woman to fly the

Ayanna Alexander (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

TT flag at the Olympic Games in the triplejump event and is the record holder of national championship titles—eight—which she secured on a run from 2006-2013. She joined in

Independence Day celebrations with two other TT athletes, George Bovell III and Richard Thompson, who performed considerably on Sunday. Bovell claimed gold at the Fina/ Mastbank Swimming

World Cup in Dubai, in the men’s 100m individual medley. He clocked 51.79 seconds. Thompson, meanwhile, clocked 10.15 seconds to win the men’s 100m at the IAAF World Challenge Meet in Berlin, Germany. Keston Bledman finished third in that race in 10.23 seconds. In a release, the National Association of Athletics Administration congratulated Alexander for adding to the country’s Independence celebrations. “She hopped, stepped and jumped into the record books with a lifetime best of 14.40m wind (+0.0) and a new national record in the triple jump. Ayanna smashed her own record of 14.15 which she set on May 9, 2012, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.” (TT Guardian)

Guyana’s Nicolette Fernandes slips three places in world rankings

E O R G E T O W N , GUYANA: Guyana’s premier squash player Nicolette Fernandes has slipped three places down the world ranking, which was updated on Monday by the World International Squash Players Association (WISPA). Fernandes, who was sitting on a career-best 19 for the past five months, dropped to 22, but will have chance to move further up in the coming months. She is slated to compete in a few tournaments before the end of 2014 and will have a chance to improve on her current ranking. The dip in ranking was a di-

Nicolette Fernandes

rect result of suffering a first round loss in the main draw of the Cathay Pacific Sun Hung Kai Financial Hong Kong Open 2014 in August. The 31-yearold Fernandes lost to England’s Victoria Lust 8-11, 9-0,10-12, 0-11, 10-12. That tournament was won by the long-standing world number one, Nicol David, of Malaysia. The win solidified David’s status as number one, a position she has held since January 2006. Despite this small setback, Fernandes is credited with making a remarkable turnaround in her career.

Nike officially sponsoring Guyana’s track and field

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Nike has been confirmed as the official sponsor of gear and uniforms for global meets that Guyana will be participating in. While the deal is a short term one, this publication was able to verify that it was struck in late July. President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson, who confirmed the deal related that there is a possibility that the global brand that sponsored the man with the golden shoes in his heydays, Michael Johnson, might continue its support of Guyana in the future. “It was really short notice and the deal will last for the rest of the year; we were trying to start from the Commonwealth Games, but it was too short notice. They did sponsor the World Junior team and the World Youth team, but in October I plan on going to America to lay out what we have planned for next year and hope that they will remain onboard,” Hutson told Guyanese media.

collecting valuable UCI points in the events of sprint, keirin, team sprint and omnium in order to set a firm foundation for TT’s bid for Olympic spots. The sprint team will be led by 2012 Olympian and national record holder, Njisane Phillip and 2012 Pan Am Champion, Quincy Alexander, while Varun Maharajh will lead the charge for the endurance team. Additionally, Christiane Farah will become the first female TT cyclist to ever represent the country at an Elite Continental event when she lines up in the

3km Individual Pursuit. The Pan Ams will be held at the Bicentenary Velodrome in Aguascalientes, situated 1800m above sea level and is home to an astonishing eight (8) world records. As a testament to the speedy nature of the high altitude track, five of TT’s records in the flying 200m, 1km time trial, 750m team sprint, flying 250m and 4km individual pursuit have been set there and it is expected that some of these records will be rewritten in just over a week’s time in Mexico. (TT Guardian)

Njisane Phillip (TT Guardian photo)

Kadecia Baird, who participated at this year’s World Juniors, sporting Nike’s apparel after her 400 metres event

even though the deal has no money involved, it is one cost factor down for us. However, I am sure as our athletes get more recognised and we perform at a higher level, deals of such nature might be possible,” Hutson mentioned. Further, Hutson revealed that it was through Commonwealth Games 400 metres gold medalist Aliann Pompey that AAG was able to initiate talks with Nike. Meanwhile, the final two meets the AAG are looking to end the year with Nike’s sponsorship are the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games and the South American Under-23 Games. (Guyana Times)

Bolt aims to replicate Beijing performance at World Champs

Njisane leads TT to Pan Am Championships

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: TT’s Cycling Federation has announced the national team for the 2014 Elite Pan American Track Cycling Championships in Aguascalientes, Mexico from September 10-14. This event which starts the 2016 Rio Olympics qualification process for Track Cycling will see TT represented by one of its biggest contingents in recent times with eight cyclists. The team will be focused on both capturing podium finishes and

However, while Nike will not be paying the AAG for having their athletes wear their apparel, Hutson is positive that in the future such will develop. “They are sponsoring warm ups, running gear and shoes all for free and

Usain Bolt

INGSTON, JAMAICA: World and Olympic sprint superstar Usain Bolt says his recording-breaking performances in Beijing, China are moments he will never forget as he aims to improve on his world records when he next competes in the city next year. The double sprint world record holder said that he is looking forward to competing at the International Association of Athletics Federations World Championships in Beijing in 2015.

“I’m just looking forward to coming here and to try to duplicate what I did six years ago. I’m just trying to do great things break world records and just enjoy [myself],” Bolt said at a press conference in China Monday. “When it comes to my world records I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I’m always going to go out there and try to run fast and try to do my best.” Bolt rose to world prominence in China after 9.69 and 19.3 second records in the 100 and 200 metres respectively at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. “It’s something that I can’t forget; it’s one of my greatest moments, that’s where it began for me and I can remember everything that happened.” “I’ve watched the races many times [and] for me it will always be a big moment”. (Jamaica Observer)

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WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Canada-based fast-bowler wants to represent Guyana again By Ravendra Madholall

O R O N T O , C A N A D A : Jeremy Gordon’s desperation to represent his native Guyana is still firm as the 2014 senior regional tournament looms. At 27, the tall, athletic fast-bowler believes he can make a big contribution with his bowling ability. Since his last international outing for Canada earlier this year at the 2015 International Cricket Council (ICC) 50Over Qualifiers in New Zealand, Gordon has not been a part of any professional action. The player said that he related his interest to representatives of the Guyana Cricket Board and they have responded favourably, encouraging Gordon to take up club

cricket in Guyana on a more consistent basis. The former Guyana player is now planning to make his presence felt in the ‘Land of Many Waters’ and will soon be playing for the Guyana National Industrial Corporation at the firstdivision level. “Yes definitely I [am] anxious to play for my country again. I have made contact with the relevant personnel and they gave me the 'ok' to play at the club division which will make me eligible for national trials, so I am looking forward to it,” Gordon said. Currently, he is plying his trade for Brampton Masters Cricket Club in the Toronto and District Cricket Association and Elite limited-over tournament. “I just want to keep playing cricket all the

time and take wickets too. My form is good and I just want to make an impression too in Guyana. Cricket is about consistency and I am willing to make the sacrifice to play for Guyana again,” Gordon added. His brief career for Guyana, which spanned 2007-2009, saw Gordon featured in three firstclass matches while he has represented Canada in eight four-day games and several one-day appearances with resounding success. “I had a good run with Canada and I am indeed eager to create that same sort of performances for Guyana if the national selectors see me as an asset for them. I know it is about good results and I respect their policy to be in their attires again,”

Daren Ganga addresses TT’s Independence gala in Toronto

Gordon indicated. He was one of the contracted players for Cricket Canada, but after the team failed to qualify for the 2015 World Cup in co-host countries, New Zealand and Australia, Cricket Canada lost their annual income from ICC and consequently all the players suffered too. They were unable to retain their remuneration package. Meanwhile, the ICC has announced that Namibia has been selected to host ICC World Cricket League Division Two from January 1724. They will be joined by Canada, Kenya, Netherlands and the top two teams promoted from Division Three in the six-team round-robin event and that will be Canada next major assignment.

Jeremy Gordon

Trinidad’s Thompson takes men’s World Challenge 100m in Berlin

B P

Daren Ganga addressing the teams at the start of the Independence Day Cricket Classic at the University of Toronto (FB photo)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Trinidad and Tobago Sport Ambassador Daren Ganga last Saturday addressed guests and participants at the third annual Independence Day Cricket Classic, a tri-nation Twenty20 tournament held in Canada to commemorate TT's 52nd year of independence. Ganga was hosted by Dr Vidhya Gyan TotaMaharaj, Consul General

for TT in Toronto. The tournament featured a Canada Invitational team and Jamaica in a play-off to face Trinidad and Tobago in the final. The event was held at the University of Toronto Scarborough Facility with the Canadians defeating Jamaica to setup a clash with TT. Speaking to TT media, Ganga expressed pride to be part of the annual

event. “It’s been very good so far. It’s an opportunity to interact with the TT diaspora which we must recognise as important. As we celebrate fifty- two years of independence we must recognise our forefathers and continue to try and develop at a fast pace. Our diaspora plays an important part in continuing that development,” he declared. (TT Newsday)

E R L I N , GERMANY: Trinidadian Richard Thompson won the men’s 100 metres at the ISTAF athletics meeting on Sunday, as the Caribbean swept both sprints. Thompson, a double silver medallist at the Beijing Olympics six years ago, clocked a pedestrian 10.15 seconds to cross the line ahead of American Dentarious Locke who was timed at 10.16 seconds, and fellow Trinidadian Keston Bledman who was third in 10.23. Thompson’s time was well off his 9.82 seconds posted at the National

Richard Thompson

Championships in Port of Spain back in June, which was then the fastest time in the world this year. Jamaican Kerron

Stewart, meanwhile, narrowly won the women’s 100 metres, beating American Joanna Atkins into second in a tight finish. Stewart, who has fond memories of Berlin with sprint relay gold at the 2009 World Championships, was timed at 11.25 while Atkins clocked 11.26. Another American, Jessica Young, was third in 11.32. In the women’s shot put, Trinidadian Cleopatra Borel clinched third place with a throw of 18.53 metres, as German Schwanitz Gerger took victory with 19. (TT Newsday)

Jamaica’s Wesley Brown scores second pro golf win S

Wesley Brown (Jamaica Observer photo)

O U T H CAROLINA, USA: Jamaica’s golfing ace Wesley Brown won his second overseas tournament when he captured the National Golf Association Brunswick Classic in South Carolina, USA, last Friday. Brown, who two weeks ago won his first tournament on tour, shot final-round five un-

der par to be six under for the tournament, winning by three strokes. The golfing ace had opened with a 71 last Thursday’s first round at -1 and was in second place, with just two shots off the leader. He went to work early on the final round last Friday, scoring -2 over the front nine. He elevated his game and separated himself

from the rest of the competition and shot -3 on the back to become the overall winner by three shots. What was most impressive about Brown’s win was his bogey free round last Friday. Following his second win on the NGA tour a very confident Brown is looking to finish up his remaining events with one or two more wins. He is very happy with

his performance over the last two days and is already looking ahead to his next event. “I am very happy to have another on tour,” Brown noted. “My confidence is sky high and I am looking forward to further success.” Brown, who is employed at the Sandals Golf and Country Club, currently plays on the Carolina Series, but has

been so impressive that he has been invited to participate in the tougher pro series which is the top level on the NGA tour. The top 10 money earners on the Carolina Series gets automatic qualification into the pro series. Sandals Resorts has been Brown’s sponsors for the past two years. (Jamaica Observer)

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Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

INTERNATIONAL WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 4, 2014

Chanderpaul wants to mentor young Windies batsmen

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Veteran West Indies left-hander Shivnarine Chanderpaul says one of his main career goals now is to use his vast experience to help develop the new generation of batsmen. Chanderpaul, who turned 40 two weeks ago, is in the twilight of an illustrious career that has seen him accumulate 11,414 runs from a record 156 Tests. He believes his two decades in international cricket has equipped him to be a mentor to younger players. “There are some goals I want to achieve and hopefully I can get there. But I want to help the young guys in the team and wherever I go I want to help as much as I can,” Chanderpaul said. “There are a lot of

young fellas out there who, when they are batting, they make a lot of mistakes and you try to help as much as you can. You have so many experiences over the years–you experience a lot just playing–so it is easier for me to pick up things but the younger fellas are not going to realise what they are doing wrong sometimes. “So you try to help as much as you can in pointing out their mistakes… but pointing out is not all because you have to help them to correct their mistakes. These are some of the things I’m hoping to do for the younger fellas.” Chanderpaul lies second on the West Indies list of all-time Test runscorers, and will be looking to add to his tally when he lines up against Bangladesh in the first Test of the two-match

series at Arnos Vale in St. Vincent starting September 5. He will turn out for St. Kitts in the threeday tour match against Bangladesh which started last Saturday, as he vies for batting practice ahead of the upcoming series. He has not played competitive cricket now for almost a month, since ending his stint with Derbyshire in the English County Championship. Chanderpaul likes the fact West Indies swept the preceding three-match one-day series, pointing out it augured well for players’ confidence. Despite his age, Chanderpaul powers are yet to decline. He has averaged 55 over the last year which has helped to keep his career average at 51. (Guyana Times)

Shivnarine Chanderpaul

Jamaica girls top Carib Tennis tournament K

Tennis Jamaica Director Lockett McGregor with the Jamaica team to last week's International Tennis Federation English Caribbean Wilson 12 and Under Central America and the Caribbean Tennis Confederation Team Championship in St. Lucia (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : Jamaica's Jenna Harrison and Michaela Stephens topped last week's International Tennis Federation English Caribbean Wilson 12 and Under Central America and the Caribbean Tennis Confederation Team Championship in St. Lucia. Jamaica made it look easy as both Harrison and Stephens combined to blank Bahamas 3-0 in the final. Eleven countries participated in the tournament. Both youngsters said they went into the tournament well prepared and qualification for the ITF Masters Championships in Monterrey, Mexico was their main aim. "Well we were pret-

ty giving it our best and Michaela and I have always been great team players," said Harrison. Stephens expressed that it was all about staying focused and finding their opponents' weaknesses. "When we found out how to defeat them, we took advantage of their weaknesses," stated Stephens. The boys came third and also qualified for Mexico's tournament. Demani Cane went through the tournament unbeaten. His partner was John Chin who also did very well. Chin shared that the tournament was a tough one, but he knew he did his best. "I am happy we qualified, because the tournament was a very com-

petitive one," expressed Chin. The other teams advancing to the Mexico Masters were the girls from Suriname and The Bahamas and the boys from Bahamas and Bermuda. Tennis Jamaica director Llockett McGregor said he was very proud of the players as they have always been working hard and have improved though the different local tournaments. "Well it was a well-deserved win and the good thing is that we qualified," said McGregor. "They are improving and are always doing their best, so I am confident they will do well in Mexico," he added. The Mexico tournament is scheduled for November. (Jamaica Gleaner)

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