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November 7–13, 2014

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PRESIDENT DONALD RAMOTAR LAST EVENING, IN HIS ADDRESS TO THE NATION ON NCN RADIO AND TELEVISION, ANNOUNCED THAT THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY WILL RECONVENE ON MONDAY OF NEXT WEEK

The ICC should act as a caretaker for the WICB See More on Page 39

Vol.4 #15

GECOM clerk killed in accident

First post-recess sitting on birthday of Parliament set for BANDITS Monday, November 10 KILLED See More on Page 9

Four freed of murdering Canal No. 2 grandmother The four murder accused in the 2008 killing of a Canal Number two grandmother were yesterday found not guilty by a mixed jury in the High Court .

See More on Page

Mta Bus Driver Charged With Assault Allegedly Stabbed Rival During Chance Encounter Queens

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

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Four freed of murdering Canal No. 2 grandmother

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he four murder accused in the 2008 killing of a Canal Number two grandmother were yesterday found not guilty by a mixed jury in the High Court.

Nigel Sookram, Steve Sookdeo, Roy Anthony Sewnarine and Vishal Seecharan were charged with the murder of Budhia, 68, who died while suffocating on a cloth shoved in her mouth during an armed robbery.

After three hours of deliberations, a 12-member jury exited their chamber

with a not guilty verdict.

The four men in unsworn statements, had told the court that they were beaten by the police after they were arrested.

The men were arrested seven months after the incident. One man was detained prior to their arrest for the murder and robbery.

The men all stated that they were beaten and threatened into signing statements. Sookdeo had admitted to the robbery in his caution statement. He had stated that himself along with “Ni-

gel, Markie and Roy,” planned the robbery.

He said they hired a car at Herstelling, East Bank Demerara and journeyed to Canal Number Two, where they broke into the house, “tied up the old lady” before robbing her and her family of cash and jewellery.

The elderly woman’s daughter Basmattie Rampersaud, had positively identified the four men during the preliminary inquiry in the Magistrate’s Court.

However, shortly after the murder, (from left) Steve Sookdeo and Nigel Sookram Rampersaud had provided different information to the police.

Her police statement was disclosed to Justice Navindra Singh and the defence counsel at the commencement of the trial a few weeks ago by Senior State Roy Anthony Counsel Judith Sewnarine Gildharie-Mursalin.

Rampersaud was cross-examined by the defence attorneys during the high court trial about her differing accounts and she stated that she named a certain person because she was afraid.

She said the four men had Vishal Seecharan a gun and had threatened to return and rape her then 13-year-old daughter and kill her.

Number one accused Sookram thanked the court and declared that “God is good!” as he walked out of the courtroom. Number four accused Seecharan, however, was escorted by policemen after he was found not guilty. Seecharan was remanded to prison for another offence—attempted murder which he was committed to stand trial for in the high court.

Before he was led out of the courtroom, Justice Singh told him that he had read his probation report, in which he had admitted to the robbery. “…I know what you did and you know what you did,” Justice Singh said.

“Yes sir,” was all Seecharan replied.

Defence attorney Raymond Alli represented Roy Anthony Sewnarine and Vishal Seecharan. Attorney Huckumchand and Sonia Parag defended the number one and number two accused Nigel Sookram and Steve Sookdeo. Eight witnesses were called to testify in the trial.

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November 7–13, 2014

Reputed Gang Member Sentenced To 40 Years To Life In Prison For 2010 Murder

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ueens District Attorney Richard A. Brown announced today that a suspected member of the CRIPS street gang has been sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for the October, 2010 shooting death of a 26-year-old Queens man.

District Attorney Brown said, “The defendant has now been held accountable for the brutal killing of a young man in the prime of his life. This defendant deservedly will spend the rest of his life locked away from society.”

The District Attorney identified the defendant as Luis A. Cherry, 24, of 180 Street in th Queens.

Cherry was convicted last July of second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon before Queens Supreme Court Justice Kenneth C. Holder who imposed today’s indeterminate sentence of 40 years to life in prison.

District Attorney Brown said that, according to trial testimony, Cherry was seen on video surveil-

lance walking toward a home on 119 Road in St. Albans, Queens, and then running away th moments later. According to trial testimony, the defendant knocked on the door, asked for Mr. Tony McFadden and after a brief exchange of words pulled out a gun and shot him in the left temple. The defendant then fled the scene.

District Attorney Brown said that Cherry, along with another individual, was accused of another homicide just days later in Suffolk County. Cherry pleaded guilty of second-degree murder in that case and is presently awaiting sentencing.

Senior Assistant District Attorney Jared R. Rosenblatt, of the District Attorney’s Homicide Trials Bureau, prosecuted the case under the supervision of Assistant District Attorneys Brad A. Leventhal, Bureau Chief, and Jack Warsawsky, Deputy Bureau Chief and the overall supervision of Executive Assistant District Attorney for Major Crimes Charles A. Testagro

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Caribbean Star Newspaper La Union boy dies after struck by car

12-year-old boy of La Union, West Coast Demerara was struck down and killed just after midnight yesterday by an alleged drunk driver who has been taken into custody.

Isaiah Khan, a Grade Seven student of Windsor Forest Secondary landed on the bonnet of the car PMM 4884 and crashed into the windscreen before being flung into a clump of grass.

In tears, his mother, Natasha Bacchus told Stabroek News that he left home around 11:30 pm on Tuesday to accompany his sisters, Melissa, 16 and Crystal, 15, who was not feeling well, to the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

She said they caught a minibus to go and returned in the taxi. They had just exited the taxi when the car that was coming from the opposite direction hit her son. The car also knocked down and killed a dog.

Melissa, she said, pulled Crystal into the grass with her to avoid being hit as well and they both started screaming.

Natasha said she and her husband, James heard when the taxi stopped and they got up and

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the people children…” Another policeman and a female were also in the car with the driver.

One of the officers then went to the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station and returned with the traffic ranks. A hearse also arrived at the same time and picked up the body and took it to the hospital’s mortuary.

This newspaper was also shown photos of beer bottles

Isaiah Khan opened the door. Just then they heard the loud “blam!”

Suddenly the place became quiet and a few seconds later the girls erupted in loud screaming.

Fearing the worst, the couple ran out on the road to investigate and saw their daughters coming out from the grass.

They asked for Isaiah but the girls did not know where he was. James then began a frantic search for his son. A few minutes later he retrieved the lifeless body from the grass.

The car ended up some distance away and an occupant returned and identified himself as a police officer and asked what happened.

The taxi driver responded: “Wah happen? y’all knock down

The damaged windscreen scattered in the car. Police in a release said that “the driver of the motor vehicle was tested and found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol.”

A former neighbour, Natalie Smith, described Isaiah, who was her godchild from one day old as a very loving and caring child.

She cried as she lamented that “he didn’t do anything to deserve a death like that.”

PoS General sued

OSEMIN HOLDER, mother of Nekeisha Caine, the woman who died in childbirth back in November 2010, has filed a medical negligence lawsuit against the Regional Health Authority which controls the Port-of-Spain General Hospital where Caine and her baby died.

The lawsuit, against the North-West Regional Health Authority (NWRHA) was filed in the High Court on Monday by attorneys Martin George and Keisha Peters who are representing Holder. Caine died at Port-ofSpain General on November 2, 2010, after choking on her vomit. Her baby died also.

Caine’s death prompted Government to launch a probe into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. In March 2011, Government accepted full responsibility for Caine’s death and that of her unborn son.

Discussions on compensation for Caine’s family were expected to begin later that month to reach, “a suitable amicable solution”. The talks would start within a week of a press conference called to update the nation on the case. A recommendation was made for disciplinary action against certain doctors. An extract from a legal opinion from Attorney General Anand Ramlogan described the circumstances of the Caine case as, “the worst kind of medical tragedy” and based on a review of the case notes, the State would have to accept responsibility.

According to the family’s attorney the NWRHA is yet to admit or accept responsibility despite several correspondences exchanged between the parties. In her lawsuit, Holder, a maintenance worker at MTS, claims her daughter had a normal pregnancy and experienced no complications. She

attended regular ante-natal clinics and was told her pregnancy was progressing well.

Caine was admitted to the PoSGH on November 1, 2010, at about 4.30 am, as she was experiencing abdominal pains. At about 8.15 am, the next morning , a syntocinon infusion to speed up labour, recommended by the admitting doctor, was not done and the nurses’ notes had a noticeable time and monitoring gap.

The infusion was eventually administered at about 4.25 pm that evening and it was not until 3.15 am on November 2, that Caine was seen by a doctor. She was last reviewed at 5.15 am and approximately seven minutes later, the midwife found her unresponsive. Holder said she received a call from the hospital telling her there was an emergency and her daughter encountered some difficulties while labour was being induced. She said she was told that the difficulties, coupled with Caine being dehydrated and underfed, led to her choking on her vomit and eventually dying. Holder’s unborn grandson also died.

Holder’s lawsuit, which seeks compensation for her daughter’s death, accuses the NWRHA of failing to take any or sufficient measures to safeguard her daughter’s life; failed to treat and provide proper care to her daughter; failed to provide sufficient or competent staff to attend to her daughter; failed to use reasonable care in the treatment of her daughter and delayed providing treatment and the synocinon infusion.

Caine’s mother is also seeking special damages for loss expectation of the life of her daughter as well as loss of earnings from 2010.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

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Caribbean Star Newspaper President can run Guyana without National Assembly Fisherman for up to nine months - sources on $50,000 bail over ganja smoking November 7–13, 2014

ven as Guyana’s opposition prepares to commence debate on the no-confidence motion on Monday, President Donald Ramotar could end up running the country without the National Assembly for as much as nine months if he suspends the current parliamentary session.

The no-confidence motion, to be moved

by Alliance For Change parliamentarian Moses Nagamootoo, is listed at number 11 on the House's Order Paper for Monday, November 11.

Referring to the constitution, sources observed that Article 69 allows him to discontinue (prorogue) the first session of the 10th Parliament and begin another session not more than six months later. However, the sources pointed out that on the expiration of those six months, the opposition can table a fresh no-confidence motion and if passed he would have to dissolve parliament and call elections in three months.

If Parliament is prorogued, the work of all parliamentary committees and pending motions and bills would be automatically scrapped.

Assuming that he discontinues the current session in November, he could run the country without the National Assembly until May, 2015. If a new no-confidence motion is then tabled and passed, general elections would have to be held in 90 days – any time

between July and August 2015.

Observers noted that such a time-line would jeopardize President Ramotar’s promise to hold Local Government Elections (LGE) in the second quarter – April to June – of 2015.

The other option that the Guyanese leader said Tuesday night that he has is to dissolve the Parliament and call fresh elections if the opposition decides to debate and approve the no-confidence motion. Should he do so this month, Guyanese could vote in early general elections between December

2014 and February 2015.

The voters list recently prepared by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)is valid until January 31, 2015 and would have to be subjected to a new Claims and Objections period if the polls are not held by that date.

Sources, however, noted that if the President’s promise to hold Local Government Elections during the second quarter of next year is taken in good faith, it could very well mean that he would dissolve Parliament and call General Elections the latest by next January.

According to the sources, if the President opts for E-Day in January, Nomination Day would have to be in December to allow for the minimum 32 days before polling day. It is only after Nomination Day that GECOM can go ahead and print the ballots overseas.

GECOM has begun training polling day staff.

Unlike the period during which the Parliament has been prorogued, the Constitution empowers the Finance Minister to spend money from the Consolidated Fund on public services until three months have expired commencing with the date on which the National Assembly first meets after dissolution. The Finance Minister is then required to submit a statement of expenditure for approval and inclusion in the next Appropriation Bill.

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fisherman was granted $50,000 bail yesterday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court after it was alleged that he had been caught smoking marijuana.

Prosecutor Michael Grant told the court that Terry Anrood was caught smoking marijuana at the North West District on November 3. Anrood, who resides at 505 Walton Hall, Essequibo Coast, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to him by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Anrood, who was unrepresented told the Chief Magistrate he has “children to mind” and begged her to grant him bail.

There was no objection to bail by the prosecutor and it was set in the sum of $50,000.

The matter is to be called again at the Mabaruma Court on November 17.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

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Goddess Durga is the mother of the universe and believed to be the power behind the work of creation, preservation, and destruction of the world. Since time immemorial she has been worshipped as the supreme power of the Supreme Being and has been mentioned in many scriptures - Yajur Veda, Vajasaneyi Samhita and Taittareya Brahman.

THE MEANING OF "DURGA"

The word "Durga" in Sanskrit means a fort, or a place which is difficult to overrun. Another meaning of "Durga" is "Durgatinashini," which literally translates into "the one who eliminates sufferings." Thus, Hindus believe that goddess Durga protects her devotees from the evils of the world and at the same time removes their miseries.

THE MANY FORMS OF DURGA

There are many incarnations of Durga: Kali, Bhagvati, Bhavani, Ambika, Lalita, Gauri, Kandalini, Java, Rajeswari, et al. Durga incarnated as the united power of all divine beings, who offered her the required physical attributes and weapons to kill the demon "Mahishasur". Her nine appellations are Skondamata, Kusumanda, Shailaputri, Kaalratri, Brahmacharini, Maha Gauri, Katyayani, Chandraghanta and Siddhidatri.

DURGA'S MANY ARMS

Durga is depicted as having eight or ten hands. These represent eight quadrants or ten directions in Hinduism. This suggests that she protects the devotees from all directions.

DURGA'S THREE EYES

Like Shiva, Mother Durga is also referred to as "Triyambake" meaning the three eyed Goddess. The left eye represents desire (the moon), the right eye represents action (the sun), and the central eye knowledge (fire).

DURGA'S VEHICLE - THE LION

The lion represents power, will and determination. Mother Durga riding the lion symbolises her mastery over all these qualities. This suggests to the devotee that one has to possess all these qualities to get over the demon of ego.

DURGA'S MANY WEAPONS

The conch shell in Durga's hand symbolizes the 'Pranava' or the mystic word 'Om', which indicates her holding on to God in the form of sound.

The bow and arrows represent energy. By holding both the bow and arrows in one hand "Mother Durga" is indicating her control over both aspects of en-

ergy - potential and kinetic.

The thunderbolt signifies firmness.

The devotee of Durga must be firm like thunderbolt in one's convictions. Like the thunderbolt that can break anything against which it strikes, without being affected itself, the devotee needs to attack a challenge without losing his confidence.

The lotus in Durga's hand is not in fully bloomed, It symbolizing certainty of success but not finality. The lotus in Sanskrit is called "pankaja" which means born of mud. Thus, lotus stands for the continuous evolution of the

spiritual quality of devotees amidst the worldly mud of lust and greed.

The "Sudarshan-Chakra" or beautiful discus, which spins around the index finger of the Goddess, while not touching it, signifies that the entire world is subservient to the will of Durga and is at her command. She uses this unfailing weapon to destroy evil and produce an environment conducive to the growth of righteousness.

The sword that Durga holds in one of her hands symbolizes knowledge, which has the sharpness of a sword. Knowledge which is free from all doubts, is

symbolized by the shine of the sword.

Durga's trident or "trishul" is a symbol of three qualities - Satwa (inactivity), Rajas (activity) and Tamas (non-activity) - and she is remover of all the three types of miseries - physical, mental and spiritual.

Devi Durga stands on a lion in a fearless pose of "Abhay Mudra", signifying assurance of freedom from fear. The universal mother seems to be saying to all her devotees: "Surrender all actions and duties onto me and I shall release thee from all fears".

By Shri Gyan Rajhans

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

First post-recess sitting of Parliament set for Monday, November 10

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President Ramotar announces in address to the nation

RESIDENT Donald Ramotar last evening, in his address to the nation on NCN radio and television, announced that the National Assembly will reconvene on Monday of next week, and that Local Government elections will be held in the second quarter of next year. The President said too that should the Opposition try to disrupt Government business by forcing a debate on its No Confidence Motion, he would use his prerogative to either prorogue or dissolve Parliament, paving the way for general elections.

Following is the text of the President’s address: Fellow Guyanese, I have decided to address you on the important matters of the convening of Parliament and Elections.

There are those who want to divide Guyana and take us back into the past.

But the future belongs to all of us. And that future we are building every day, together.

The parliamentary recess has ended.

That is why the National Assembly must resume its deliberations to address several very important matters that were on the Order Paper, but not completed at the beginning of the recess, as well as

new matters. These matters will allow us, all our people, to build a better society and a more resilient economy.

In keeping with our traditions and a recent pledge, I now announce Monday, November 10th, 2014, as the date of the first post-recess sitting of the National Assembly.

Some of these matters before the National Assembly that hold the key to our future, include: – 1.

The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Legislation and the repercussions of Guy-

ana’s non-compliance on both the economy and the lives of our citizens; 2.

The Telecommunications Legislation with its intended Liberalisation of the Telecoms Sector; 3. The Education Bill and its sweeping overhaul of public education that lifts every child in Guyana; and 4. Financial Papers providing for expenditure of Public Funds for development projects and improving the welfare of our people.

In addition to these matters is the timing of the much needed Local Government elections.

Fellow Guyanese, you are aware that the Opposition has tabled a motion of No Confidence against my Administration. If this is passed, it will lead to General Elections.

Further I have been advised that the Guyana Elections Commission will require six months to prepare for Local Government Elections under the new local Government electoral system. Pending further consultations with the Guyana Elections Commission on its preparations, I also now announce my intention to hold Local Government Elections in the Second Quarter of next year, 2015.

I disclose these, my intentions, on the

Dr. Ravideen Ramsamooj. Ph.D. Trained music teacher.

assumption that the post recess sittings of the National Assembly would proceed uninterruptedly, deliberating on the urgent matters I have listed in the interest of the people of Guyana.

I also wish to declare that were this not to be so, and I am provided with reasons to believe that the Parliamentary Opposition intends to disrupt Government’s business by forcing a debate on their No Confidence Motion, I resolve to respond immediately by exercising my Constitutional options to either Prorogue or Dissolve Parliament, paving the way for holding of General Elections.

Fellow Guyanese, Guyana deserves better than political games that serve to only benefit a select few while damaging the welfare of the people of Guyana.

Your Government remains committed to forging partnership and taking appropriate actions in the interest of the stability, unity and prosperity of our dear country.

The future of Guyana is bright, but all of our progress will be lost without a combined effort to move our country forward.

Thank you.

Donald Ramotar President

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November 7–13, 2014 Caribbean Star Newspaper GECOM clerk killed in accident on birthday

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WENTY-six–year-old Gavin Bachan of 181 Hope West, Enmore, East Coast Demerara and an assistant registration clerk at the Guyana Elections Commission was killed early Monday morning after the Alteza motorcar he was driving, PNN 7981, slammed into the Kitty seawall in the vicinity of Celina Resort.

Bachan was reportedly heading home at the time of the accident following a brief outing to usher in his birthday, which he would have celebrated yesterday.

Information reaching the Guyana Chronicle suggested that the young man first visited a family member in the city and they later travelled to a popular city bar where they were imbibing before Bachan decided to leave for home.

Persons who reside close to where the accident occurred explained that they heard a loud impact and when they looked outside and rushed to the scene, they noticed the badly injured man in the front seat of the vehicle panting for breath.

Police confirmed that the man was the only one in the car at the time of the accident and that he had sustained major injuries.

Bachan on Monday of this week had

The vehicle as it lay on a tow truck yesterday morning at the Kitty Police Station proceeded on three weeks’ annual leave in keeping with his birthday. Speaking with this newspaper yesterday morning at the home of the dead man, a cousin, Satanand Gopie, said that relatives last heard from the young man at 23:00 hrs on Monday night.

He said that the man was at home on Monday morning then left to go out in the afternoon to visit another relative.

He said that relatives were not too familiar with what really caused the accident since they were not on the scene.

The man was not willing to get into much of what the relatives had heard about the accident and directed that the information be sought from the police.

Yesterday when this newspaper visited the Kitty Police Station where the vehicle was already on a tow truck, the extensive damage was visible.

The vehicle’s back and front bumpers were damaged as well as lights and other fixtures.

The entire left side of the car was badly damaged and the air bags had been acti-

Dead Gavin Bachan vated. Over at the home of the man, family members, friends and workers from the Guyana Elections Commission where the man had worked for five years were present to offer their condolences to the mother and siblings.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

‘Guyana, South America Undiscovered’ a tremendous success in London

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N MONDAY, November 3, during a cocktail reception in London, a Guyana delegation unveiled at the World Travel Market (WTM) conference “Guyana, South America Undiscovered,” the country’s new tourism brand.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Indranauth Haralsingh, who is currently in London attending the WTM conference said the first day was a tremendous success: “Day one was an excellent day for Guyana. Everyone likes the brand and logo. The launch was a tremendous success if you take into account the massive reach that this event has.”

The WTM is one of the leading travel and trade shows attracting influential figures in and around the travel industry, who offer the latest insights, trends and invaluable knowledge to all who visit.

The GTA Director explained that Guyana’s continued participation in the event will have both direct and indirect benefits, since attending the WTM will give the country the advantage to market its destina-

Guyana Tourism’s new logo tion to visitors as well as fellow participants worldwide. “WTM is the perfect opportunity for us to continue our outreach to international tourists, not only will we reach the UK (United Kingdom) market but also buyers from countries all over the world,” he said.

Haralsingh stressed that the GTA recognises the WTM trade show as a very important aspect of its marketing strategy and has continued to attend it over the last 13 years. This has resulted in placing Guyana’s tourism product on the world map in the eyes of consumers and international travel operators.

While there, the team will at-

tend key meetings with several tour operators, travel agents, media and publications, he also explained. Wilderness Explorers, Rupununi Trails and Iwokrama are all participating in the WTM. Guyana’s booth will host a number of events and meetings including the launching of the “Guyana South America Undiscovered” destination brand, hosting of the ATLAS travel group, and launching of the “Explore Guyana” Magazine 2015.

Recently, Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali noted that Guyana offers the opportunity to travel to an “off–the-beatenpath,” conservation-minded destination, to see exceptional nature, experience wildlife and birds in a remote and pristine environment with thriving indigenous and multi-ethnic communities.

“It offers visitors many benefits: exploring an English-speaking South American destination; discovering our natural attractions travelling by land, river and air across a never-ending stretch of rainforest to see birds, wildlife and

giant species; interacting with Amerindian people and enjoying multi-ethnic festivals, music and cuisine and learning about the country’s rich heritage. It is an opportunity to experience vast virgin rainforest, rolling savannahs, mighty rivers and the lively Caribbean coast, all in one trip,” he revealed.

He explained that through a new logo and tagline (which was developed after extensive consultation with tourism stakeholders and operators; and businesses which will be used in promotional and marketing materials, both locally and internationally), it showcases that we are part of a “South American Region with a Caribbean flair.”

Minister Ali continued, “The opportunity to confirm Guyana’s commitment to the development of tourism in Guyana must be fully exploited.”

The Guyana delegation is headed by Haralsingh and includes Sanchia Persaud, Senior Tourism Development Officer; and Tosheika Logan, Research and Planning Analyst. The WTM is being held from 3rd6th November,2014.

Mta Bus Driver Charged With Assault Allegedly Stabbed Rival During Chance Encounter Queens istrict Attorney Richard A. Brown today announced that a City bus driver has been charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon for allegedly stabbing a motorist romantically involved with his wife whom he encountered in Far Rockaway yesterday as he made his way to the bus depot after completing his route.

District Attorney Brown identified the defendant as Ephraim Henry, 30, of Richmond Hill, Queens. The defendant was arraigned this afternoon before Queens Criminal Court Judge Ernest Hart on charges of first- and second-degree assault, and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Henry, who faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted, was held on $50,000 bail. The next court date is November 19, 2014.

District Attorney Brown said that, according to the charges, the defendant had completed his route on November 4, 2014 and was taking the empty bus to the depot when he encountered Oscar Williams, 48, driving a Honda in the vicinity of Beach 67th Street and Beach Channel Drive. The victim is allegedly dating the defendant’s wife. The bus and Honda came to a stop and the defendant got off the bus and he and the victim allegedly began to argue and fight.

The defendant allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim in the arm, according to the complaint, said District Attorney Brown. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital with nerve and muscle damage that required surgery.

It should be noted that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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November 7–13, 2014 11 Caribbean Star Newspaper Thursday, August 29,July 201 EqualityNews.ca Caribbean Star Newspaper BANDITS KILLED

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WO BANDITS, one of them about to turn 18, were shot to death in separate encounters with the police in the first few hours of this week. In both instances, the men were involved in robberies and exchanged gunfire with law enforcement officers.

The dead men have been identified as Jonathan Ramlogan of Piarco and Kwasi De Coteau of Alexander Street, San Fernando.

Ramlogan was shot to death shortly after a man pointed him out to police officers on patrol near the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies, as the person who had just robbed him.

According to police, at about 3.30 am yesterday, members of the Northern Division Task Force were on patrol on the Eastern Main Road in St Augustine when they were flagged down by a panicked man.

The man said he had just been robbed and pointed to another individual who was later identified as Ramlogan. The reports indicate that Ramlogan was fleeing the scene when the police turned up.

The officers are said to have begun to chase Ramlogan in their vehicle, but on reaching the vicinity of the UWI tunnel off the Eastern Main Road in St Augustine, Ramlogan reportedly pulled out a firearm and shot at the lawmen. The police returned fire, hitting the young man several times.

During the exchange, one of the officers identified as Constable Phillip was shot to the right side of his chest. Both Phillip and Ramlogan were rushed to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mt Hope, where Ramlogan was pronounced dead on arrival.

Relatives of Ramlogan thought he was asleep at his Piarco home at the time of the incident. The teen’s uncle Mukesh Lutchman said he had checked on Ramlogan earlier in the evening and saw that he was asleep.

Lutchman said it wasn’t until around nine yesterday morning when he returned from work, that he noticed his nephew’s absence.

Lutchman said he became worried after not seeing Ramlogan for a few hours and was about to call the police to report him missing when he learnt of the teen’s death.

Up to press time, Constable Phillip was reported to be still warded at the EWMSC. His condition has been described as stable, although he is still listed in critical condition. Lutchman said despite his deadly encounter with the law, Ramlogan was a good youngster.

“He was a very loving and down to earth person,” Lutchman told Newsday. “He did everything for his three younger brothers.

He had problems with the police before, but never like this. Not with shooting and all kinds of thing,” Lutchman said.

Friends of the young man also expressed shock at his death. The teenagers, who wished not to be named, said Ramlogan was a student of the Caribbean Union College (CUC) until he dropped out at age 16.

He would have celebrated his 18th birthday next week.

In an unrelated incident, De Coteau and two other men walked into a mobile phone store at KK Plaza, Southern Main Road in Couva, at about 4.40 pm on Monday and announced a hold– up. The men were said to have robbed the store of $7,000. Couva

Poli Wanted Trinidad polic PITBULL KILLS GRANNY

police responded to a report of the rob- nearby Couva district health facility where he antville. He was killed following a botched bery and when they arrived on the scene, was pronounced dead on arrival. One of De robbery at Chinese Phoenix Restaurant spotted two men fitting the description of Coteau’s accomplices who, it was said, re- and Bar, Bonne Aventure Road, Gasparillo. the suspects, running away. A chase en- mained hiding out in the store, later attemptDuncan was positively identified at the sued along Noel Street with the officers in ed to smash his way to freedom through a Forensic Science Center in St James on hot pursuit and calling on the men to stop. window but was subsequently held and up to Monday by his girlfriend. The two men who Instead one of the men turned around and yesterday remained in custody. managed to escape following the botched opened fire on the officers who returned It was only on Saturday night when a se- robbery, remained on the run up to press fire hitting De Coteau, who collapsed. The curity guard shot and killed a bandit who time. At Duncan’s home yesterday, all a feRamlogan said there was An 84-year-old great edgeable when it came to incident occurred. other men escaped. has since been identified as Kobina Duncan, male relative would tellJuly Newsday is that sheCM ORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, 9, 2014, an Wednesday undertaking within grandmother was yesterday the training of dogs and The injured De Coteau was rushed to the 35, of Sunflower Drive, Blitz Village, Pleas- is, “leaving justice to God.”

Bloody attack oncommits 84-year-old suicide woman caus afte at Maraval home on ‘Wall of S placed

mauled to death by a family pitbull.

Lillian Bunsee had never ventured close to the dogs as she had been attacked in the past, but yesterday morning one of the dogs escaped from its kennel and again attacked her, this time killing her.

Neighbours said the dog was one of approximately ten which were bred and being given aggression training in preparation for sale by two of the woman’s relatives.

Never once did the residents hear Bunsee scream for help but only noticed she was being attacked as they walked along the roadway close to her home on La Seiva Road, Maraval.

Police said it was shortly after 9 a.m. that the residents saw the woman on the ground with the dog tearing away at her body. They tried throwing boulders at the animal in an attempt to stop it but their efforts were unsuccessful, said officers.

Investigators said several police officers who were on patrol nearby went to the scene after receiving a report and was only able to have the dog stop biting the woman after opening fire on the animal, shooting it six times.

Residents in the area said the officers had no other option but to kill the dog.

The other dogs were all locked away in their kennels, they said.

“After the first two shots the dog was still biting the woman, like the shots did nothing to it. The police had to shoot it four more times before it stopped,” said one man.

CPR

Training

The resident, who asked that his name not be published, said regardless of the type, he was always opposed to people giving aggression training to dogs within their own household which is shared with other family members.

He said he was also knowl-

of lo

P

A former head o Parliamentofthat Azizul hours Rahaman after of thea photo disagreed with themitted deci- Dr suicide hisheappeared on a defunct state-ow sion of the dog’s owner to Jones Animal Clinic exam- would accommodate cerana Airwaysho C carry out the training at the ined the dog and confirmed tain amendments based has blamed g it was one of the danger- on suggestions from Indehouse. officials forlic th ous dogs referred to in the pendent Senators and also aviation woes “Aggression training within Dog Control Bill which was from members of the Opag country. your own environment and passed in Parliament last position. training of dogs within your month but is yet to be pro- The Independent Senators Co Former GAC had already forwarded own household where you claimed, police said. wh Manager, Fazal have ageable people or fam- Rahaman removed some their suggestions to him, the adamant that ily members in your house of the animals and locked but he was still awaiting spite rather tha the Opposition’s before the vic or operational Act is proclaimed by Presia q forced the dent Anthony Carmona. closure ofHis the airlinevisi “This bill is clearly needed. back in the I would like those perhos late nineties, sons who argue that there and it is one should be no legislation to of the ma-The control these dangerous jor reasonsme dogs, I would like them to G u y a n e s egra pay a visit to the relatives are payingMa of victims to explain their e x o r b i t a ntpro position and to offer some prices tosid condolence. I am calling travel upous upon them to go pay them North. a visit and to offer them 623 The formerbey some compensation,” said aviation ofRamlogan. info ficial is convinced thatlice Section 19 of the Dog Un Guyana’s curren Control Act: ed t affairs is one of have been avo 19. (1) Where a class A and the continuanc dog injures a person, FAMILY PHOTO: 84-year-old Lillian Bunsee who “prosperous an without reasonable cause was mauled to death by a pitbull yesterday in her own oping” state-ow whether in a public place The home. rier being pres or on private premises, the oth prized for itsnox fu owner or keeper of the dog and importance is a no no. Aggression is not them away at the clinic yes- commits an offence and is han nese travelers. the type of training to do terday evening. He told the liable on summary convica b within that environment. Express the dogs were be- tion to a fine of $100,000 “They didn’tTrik High potency dog food and ing temporarily kept at the and to imprisonment for

WE ALSO OFFER! 1) EKG Technician 2) Phlebotomy Technician 3) State Board exam on Premises

aggression training in the home environment is creating a time bomb and it is just a matter of time before tragedy strikes,” he said.

animal hospital until the other owner makes a decision “on what he is going to do with them”.

Detectives from the Port of Spain Criminal Investigations Department (CID) led by ASP Ajith Persad went to the scene and detained the man who owned the dog.

“It was not for any legal reason or anything. Relatives and so on would be going to the house to give their condolences and what have you, so we are just keeping the dogs for a little while,” he said.

Up to yesterday evening he was in custody at the CID office along St Vincent Street, Port of Spain. Officers said they would be consulting with Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard SC to determine what charges could be laid against the man.

The other owner was not arrested as he did not live on the premises where the

The other owner said residents no longer wanted the dogs in the area, so he may have to “put them to sleep”.

Contacted via phone yesterday, Attorney General Anand Ramlogan said the Dog Control Bill was passed on the last day of the parliamentary session in order to prevent it from being “lapsed”.

With the passing of the bill,

five years.

(2) Where a class A dog kills a person or causes the death of a person, without reasonable cause, the owner or keeper of the dog commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $200,000 and to imprisonment for ten years.

CLASS A dogs are identified in the Bill as: 1. Pitbull Terrier or any dog bred from the Pitbull Terrier.

2. Fila Brasileiro or any dog bred from the Fila Brasileiro.

3. Japanese Tosa or any dog bred from the Japanese Tosa.

were making because theyMa d at derstand aviati told KaieteurinN were totallyara clu had they know ed mistake, they w never done He it, time they realiz TT already too late der in a recent inter Queenstownthe res oug Khan believes t Pat “pushed aside” of the GACwh fo ing his reservat said one political cub app According to in realized thatapp th forward-thinkin agement woul “Th the GAC and fore gave theant th dri some eight mon sulp consider their removing him.

12

November 7–13, 2014

Caribbean Star Newspaper

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November 7–13, 2014 Caribbean Star Newspaper PPP had requested extradition of Gregory Smith

C

ommissioner of Information Charles Rishi Ramson yesterday stated that he had sent a statement to the French Guiana government requesting to have Gregory Smith, the man fingered in the killing of Dr Walter Rodney, extradited to stand a possible trial in Guyana.

Under cross-examination by the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) attorney Christopher Ram, Ramson indicated that more than one attempt was made by the PPP government to have Smith extradited.

He made this declaration at yesterday’s hearing of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the death of former WPA leader, who was killed in a car along John and Bent streets in 1980 after a walkie-talkie given to him exploded in his lap.

Ramson, a former attorney general, stated that they had received information that Smith was living in that country and, acting on the orders of former president Cheddi Jagan, he formulated a statement to have Smith extradited. Though the extradition request included that he would not be executed if found guilty, Ramson said French Guiana did not agree to the extradition because Guyana still imposed the death penalty.

He stated that it was the responsibility of the Attorney General to make recommendations to the President on whether someone should be executed. He stated that the President would then make his own recommendations.

He said there were further attempts to bring Smith back to Guyana in 1999. But he did not

Charles Rishi Ramson elaborate.

Ramson stated that the PNC government would not have looked in the direction to have Smith sent back here.

Ram asked him if he had ever requested a status report on the investigation into Rodney’s death but he responded that it was never his responsibility in the first place.

He stated that he had uplifted a file on Rodney from the Police Special Branch Unit as a means to formulate his statement. He stated all the while when he was in possession of the document a police officer was waiting for it. He said he returned the file to that officer and it was not until the CoI started that he was informed that files on the WPA leader were missing.

He stated that he did not know if the Defence Board, a body of which he was a member, had made a request between 1992 and 1996 for Rodney’s files.

Ramson, who described himself as a “legal observer” of that time, also indicated that there was interference in the judiciary system

during that time. He mentioned several court cases that were flawed in some way, one in particular being a lawsuit he had filed against policemen who assaulted him during a WPA public meeting.

He explained that on August 22, 1979, he went to a WPA public meeting. He said he and the current acting Chief Justice Ian Chang stood about five yards away from where the meeting was held. Ramson said he went because he liked to listen to Rodney speak and with “political temperatures” rising he wanted to see what was going on.

Ramson said things were “bursting at the seams” with policemen and House of Israel members breaking up opposition parties’ public meetings.

He observed a team of policemen, who he described as the “riot squad,” breaking up the WPA meeting that afternoon. He described the policemen as “big monkey…, six foot seven, people,” adding that their mere presence was intimidating.

Ramson said the police officer in charge that day approached him and told him that they had just beaten another lawyer. “I would assume that they were talking about Moses Bhagwan.”

They then started to beat him in the abdomen and shouted at him to: “Move on man! Get out from here!” but he refused to move because he knew his rights.

He said he was surprised that they did not harm Chang, who was also an attorney at the time, and so he believed that he was personally targeted.

Ramson said he went away later and a lawsuit was filed against

Seven convictions for fuel smuggling this year – GEA The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has recorded seven convictions for fuel smuggling this year since it intensified enforcement operations to combat fuel smuggling.

O

n October 13, four defendants: Ramnarine Hardyal, Ramlattie Hardyal, Desmond France and Orton Benjamin pleaded guilty to possession of illegal petroleum, when they appeared in the Charity Magistrate’s Court. This brings the total number of recorded convictions since the agency implemented the Fuel Marking Programme to 33, it said in a press release. Inspectors attached to the programme visit about 15,000 sites and conduct more than 35,000 tests annually.

From 2006 to 2013, the percentage of sites found with significant dilution in at least one tank has progressively de-

creased from 34% in 2006 to 3% in 2013.

Additionally, at October month-end 13 prosecutions are ongoing at various courts countrywide.

“The GEA remains resolute in its battle to combat fuel smuggling and wishes to remind citizens that when smugglers engage in illegal trade, they evade taxes and divert revenue intended for Guyana’s development to their own needs,” the agency said. It encourages all persons who may have information relating to fuel smuggling and possession of illegal fuel to contact the agency at telephone number 226-0394 or 624-5905.

the police by his lawyer Ashton Chase, but it was dismissed and Chang was “chastised” for being involved in that “type of activity.”

Yet, Ramson stated that he did not drop the matter.

His case was appealed in 1982 in the Court of Appeal.

He said the interference continued and magistrates used to attack counsel in the courts. He said once someone entered a judge’s chambers without his authorisation and “stole newspapers” which were vital to a court case.

He said there was no sign of a break in. He stated that only the judge and the registrar had access to the chambers and anyone else would have had to have been invited before they could enter.

There was intense surveillance of the opposition parties and a special police unit was formed in the mid to late 1970s to ensure that all government offices and ministers were secured. He said this body comprised 30 to 40 senior policemen and was headed

by Laurie Lewis.

He said he found it ironic that the headquarters of this squad— the National Guard Service—was located next door to the ministry which Dr Rodney was accused of burning down. He questioned its peculiarity. He noted that the existence of the squad was not publicised and that it stopped functioning after Rodney’s death.

He said that after Rodney was tried for the burning the ministry building, the political climate worsened and the WPA started mocking Burnham’s administration. WPA supporters used to march down streets shouting: “People’s power! No dictator!”

13

and he anyone could have seen that the WPA genuinely wanted political change.

He stated that the police and the House of Israel would openly break up public WPA meetings and he was confident that it was not the PPP that used to break up the meetings because they would usually have joint meetings with the WPA. The two parties had a “common enemy,” he said; they believed that the election process was rigged.

Ramson said most of the times when the meetings were dispersed and rioters would steal loud speaker equipment and he was once instructed by the PPP to sit in a tree and see who were breaking up meetings.

Ramson further said he had a “paradoxical” relationship with the PNC since his father was a Member of Parliament and a “right-hand man” to Burnham. He said he was informed about things happening at that time because of this fact and also because he was familiar with some WPA members.

On the night Rodney was killed, he was drinking with friends at a spot when an acquaintance showed up and gave them the news. He said they all left the place quickly and went home because of security reasons; people were fearful during that time.

Ramson declared that Burnham had two American Ambassadors sent back to their country because he feared that they wanted him out of office. He said the two ambassadors were “disenchanted” with the Burnham regime.

Ramson will continue to be cross-examined today.

Trio nabbed with gun, vehicle after Berbice robbery

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QUICK response by the police in Berbice on Monday saw them intercepting three young men who were suspected to have earlier committed a daring robbery on a Cambio dealer at Rosignol, West Coast Berbice. The police were also able to recover a handgun in the vehicle in which the three were travelling, but which was not registered to either of them. The police up to late last evening were trying to ascertain if the weapon was ever used in committing any other crimes and if it was originally registered to a licensed firearm holder. The three who were arrested have been identified as David Alder of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara; Dwayne Bentic of Albouystown; and Nigel Quely of Vreed– en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara.

In addition, the vehicle, a white Allion motorcar PSS 5406, in which the men were travelling at the time they were intercepted by the police is said to be registered to one Charmaine Ashanti Bess of 206 Melanie Damishana, East

Coast Demerara. It is not clear if she is related to David Alder, one of the three persons arrested.

It was only yesterday that police sources had indicated that based on their investigations, the crimes which are being perpetrated especially with the use of firearms are opportunistic and are not organised.

Over the last few weeks there has been an upsurge in gun crimes which the police have been battling to bring under control. Several illegally obtained and unlicensed weapons have since been recovered from crime scenes, or upon persons of suspects, or following the perpetration of crimes, or during police raids.

Additionally, the police have been receiving many reports of robberies and other gun-related crimes being committed on citizens by persons who ride mostly BMX pedal cycles. This is even as the police continue to battle with cases of crimes committed by persons who traverse the city and other areas with the use of CG motorcycles.

14

November 7–13, 2014

ISLAM Peace / submission to the will of our creator.

Series - part 02

Our guiding Stars The companions of our noble Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) The world once revolved in darkness. The darkness of sin and deviant beliefs. Spiritual darkness. Filled with chaos and corruption. Envy and hatred governed the day. Tribal war and petty conflict raged rampant in every society. Despicable customs and shameful practices prevailed. Modesty and morality dwindled away and human life was trivialized. It had been some time since a divine reminder had come, and mankind, in his forgetful nature, quickly digressed from the path of guidance. The future of humanity seemed very bleak and the cries of the rare reformers fell on deaf ears. This condition continued for some centuries. At this point our lord the most compassionate, looked upon us with a look of mercy as He raised up from this darkness a shining light in the form of His messenger Muhammad (S.A.W).

Guided by nothing more than divine instructions, Muhammad (S.A.W) extinguished the darkness of the world with his life and teachings as a brilliant example.

His teachings illuminated the hearts of those around him and eradicated all falsehood from their lives. They wholeheartedly accepted the new teachings and instilled the pure belief into their souls, thus becoming people of firm faith and outstanding personalities. History has never witnessed such resolute conviction in any teaching, men who devoted their entire lives to a cause in such an extremely fearless manner, with personal sacrifice and exertion, as it has witnessed in these companions of prophet Muhammad (S.A.W).

It was on the strength of this exemplary behavior that these individuals were raised from the pits of darkness to become guiding stars to success for humanity till the end of time.

Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) Umar (Radhiyallaho anho), of whom all the Muslims are justly proud, and the disbelievers still dread, was most adamant in opposing the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) and very prominent in persecuting the Muslims before he embraced Islam.

One day, the Qureysh in a meeting called for somebody to volunteer himself for the assassination of the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasal-lam). ‘Umar (Radhiyallaho anho) offered himself for this job, at which everybody exclaimed: “Surely, you can do it, ‘Umar!”

With sword hanging from his neck, he set out straight away on his sinister errand. On his way he met Sa’ad bin Abi Waqqas. Sa’ad inquired: “Where to Umar?”

Umar: “I am after finishing Muhammad.”

Sa’ad: “But do not you see that Banu Hashim, Banu Zuhrah and Banu Abde Munaf are likely to kill you in retaliation?”

‘Umar (upset at the warning): “It seems that you also have renounced the religion of your forefathers. Let me settle with you first.”

So saying, Umar drew out his sword. Sa’ad announcing his Islam, also took out his sword.

They were about to start a duel when Sa’ad said: “You had better first set your

Caribbean Star Newspaper

own house in order. Your sister and brother-in-law both have accepted Islam.”

Hearing this, Umar flew into a towering rage and turned his steps towards his sister’s house.

The door of the house was bolted from inside and both husband and wife were receiving lessons in the Qur’an from Khabbab (Radhiyallaho anho). ‘Umar knocked at the door and shouted for his sister to open it. Khabbab (Radhiyallaho anho) hearing the voice of ‘Umar, hid himself in some inner room, forgetting to take the manuscript pages of the Holy Qur’an with him. When the sister opened the door, ‘Umar hit her on the head, saying: “0, enemy of yourself. You too have renounced your religion.”

Her head began to bleed. He then went inside and inquired, “What were you doing? And who was the stranger I heard from outside?” His brother-in-law replied, “We were talking to each other.”

‘Umar said to him, “Have you also forsaken the creed of your forefathers and gone over to the new religion?” The brother-inlaw replied, “But what if the new religion be the better and the true one?” ‘Umar got beside himself with rage and fell on him, pulling his beard and beating him most savagely. When the sister intervened, he smote her so violently on her face that it bled most profusely. She was, after all, ‘Umar’s sister; she burst out: “’Umar! We are beaten only because we have become Muslims. Listen! we are determined to die as Muslims. You are free to do whatever you like...”

When ‘Umar had cooled down and felt a bit ashamed over his sister’s bleeding, his eyes fell on the pages of the Qur’an left behind by Khabbab (Radhiyallaho anho). He said, “Alright show me, what these are?” “No,” said the sister, “you are unclean and no unclean person can touch the Scripture.” He insisted, but the sister was not prepared to allow him to touch the leaves unless he washed his body. ‘Umar at last gave in. He washed his body and then began to read the leaves. It was Surah “Taha”. He started from the beginning of the Surah, and he was a changed man altogether when he came to the verse: “Lo! I, indeed I am Allah.

There is none worthy of worship save Me. So serve me and establish Salaat for My remembrance.”

He said: “Alright, take me to

Muhammad (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam).”

On hearing this, Khabbab (Radhiyallaho anho) came out from inside and said: “0, ‘Umar! Glad tidings for you. Yesterday (on Thursday night) the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) prayed to Allah, 0, Allah strengthen Islam with either ‘Umar or Abu Jahl, whomsoever Thou likest’. It seems that his prayer has been answered in your favour.”

‘Urnar then went to the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) and embraced Islam on Friday morning.

‘Umar’s Islam was a terrible blow to the morale of the unbelievers, but still the Muslims were few in number and the whole country was against them. The disbelievers intensified their efforts for the complete annihilation of Muslims and the extinction of Islam. With ‘Umar (Radhiyallaho anho) on their side, the Muslims now started saying their Salaat in the Haram. Abdullah bin Mas’ood (Radhiyallaho anho) says: “’Umar’s Islam was a big triumph, his emigration to Madinah a tremendous reinforcement, and his accession to the Caliphate a great blessing for the Muslims.”

Umar al-Faruq was second only to Abu Bakr al-Siddiq in closeness to and approval from the Prophet. The Prophet (s.a.w) said: “I have two ministers from the inhabitants of the heaven and two ministers from the inhabitants of the earth. The former are Jibril and Mika’il, and the latter are Abu Bakr and `Umar.” He said of the latter: “These two are [my] hearing and eyesight” and instructed the Companions: “Follow those that come after me: Abu Bakr and `Umar.”

The Prophet (S.A.W) said: “If there were a Prophet after me verily it would be `Umar.”

Umar also had the unique distinction of having his views confirmed by the revelation in the Holy Qur’an: He said three things which were confirmed by subsequent revelations: I concurred with my Lord in three matters: I said to the Prophet: “O Messenger of Allah! Why do we not pray behind Ibrahim’s Station?” Whereupon was revealed the verse: “. . . Take as your place of worship the place where Ibrahim stood (to pray). . .” (2:125); I said: “O Messenger of Allah!

You should order your wives to

cover because both the chaste and the wicked go in to see them,” whereupon was revealed the verse: “... And when you ask of them (the wives of the Prophet) anything, ask it of them from behind a curtain. . .” (33:53) Then the Prophet’s wives banded together in their jealousy over him, so I said to them: “It may happen that his Lord, if he divorce you, will give him instead wives better than you, [submissive (to Allah), believing, pious, penitent, inclined to fasting, widows and maids].” (67:5) whereupon was revealed that verse.

He was unique in his power of separating truth from falsehood and the Prophet conferred on him the title of al-Fârûq. His steadfastness on the truth was such that the prophet (S.A.W) said: the devil certainly runs away from Umar.”

Umar (Radhiyallaho anho) would often hold a straw in his hand and say: “I wish I were a straw like this.”

Sometimes he would say: “I wish my mother had not given birth to me.”

Once he was busy with some important work when a person came to him and, complaining about some petty grievance, requested for its redress. Umar (Radhiyallaho anho) laid a lash across his-shoulders, saying: “When I sit for that purpose, you do not come to me but when I am engaged in other important work you come with your grievances to interrupt me.”

The person walked away. But ‘Umar (Radhiyal-laho anho) sent for him and, handing his whip over to him, said: “You now lash me to even the matter.” He said: “I forgive you for the sake of Allah.” Umar (Radhiyallaho anho) went home, prayed a Salaat of two rakaats in repentance and upbraided himself saying: “0, Umar! You were low but Allah elevated you. You were wandering astray but Allah guided you. You were base but Allah ennobled you and gave you sovereignty over His people. Now one of them comes and asks you for redress of the wrong done to him, and you beat him? What answer have you to give before Allah?”

He kept on reprimanding himself thus for a very long time.

Shayk Abdullah Khan Al Ihsan Academy

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

15

Man gets 83 years for torching wife J

ustice Navindra Singh yesterday sentenced Delon Gordon, the man who killed his partner by setting her afire in their Better Hope, East Coast Demerara home, to 83 years in jail, with a minimum of 50 years to be served before the possibility of parole.

Gordon was charged with murdering Natasha Johnson in 2011, after the mother of three succumbed in hospital to the burns she sustained in the fire.

Gordon set the house on fire with himself and Johnson and their one-year-old child in it. Johnson’s two other children were also locked in the house.

Gordon had been found guilty of the murder on October 15 by the 12-member jury.

His lawyer Raymond Ali yesterday begged the judge to be lenient with his client and to consider that he came from a broken background.

Senior state attorney Judith Gildharie-Mursalin, on the other hand, told Justice Singh that Gordon showed no remorse for his actions or even concern for his child, who was also in the house. “He was more concerned about bad mouthing Natasha,” she said, while adding that Gordon had referred to his wife as a “lady of the night.”

She asked Justice Singh to also remember Natasha Johnson and the brutal manner in which she was killed. She said Gordon harboured ill feelings for Johnson before finally killing her.

Justice Singh had ordered the preparation of a probation report before sentencing. Yesterday, under cross-examination

by Gildharie-Mursalin, Probation Officer Arlene Matthew admitted that she did not check the Sparendaam Police Station files for reports that were filed by Johnson about physical abuse. Johnson had made several reports during the week in which she was killed. Matthew was also

Natasha Johnson questioned as to why she did not indicate in her report that Gordon was charged with stabbing a fellow inmate or that all of Johnson’s children were separated after her death.

Gildharie-Mursalin then asked her if she had prepared a balanced report while pointing out that a probation report should assist the court.

Delivering his sentence, Justice Singh informed Gordon that he would start his sentence at 60 years but he would have to make some adjustments since this case was one of the most brutal ones he has dealt with.

He added five years for premeditation, 10 years for exceptional brutality, six years because it was domestic abuse, and five years because children were in the house. Three years were deducted from the sentence for the time spent in prison.

Gordon remained emotionless when Justice Singh declared that he was sentenced to 83 years in prison. Johnson’s family rushed to Gildharie-Mursalin and embraced her, crying with joy. They were crying as the judge left the bench and Gordon was led away by policemen to a prisoner’s van.

He is expected to serve a minimum of 50 years before he is eligible for parole.

“Delon Gordon made her a human torch. She was abused, threatened and finally murdered by the man she loved.

Only a sick, diabolical mind could light a woman afire with three little children [in the house]. Tell me, how a man who loved her could hurt her so,” Gildharie-Mursalin had told the jury before the verdict on October 15.

Fourteen witnesses testified during the trial, including one who stated that Gordon left the house to buy bread and when he returned he found himself locked him out.

The witness testified that Gordon climbed through a window, went into the kitchen and emptied kerosene into a bowl. The witness stated that Gordon then carried the bowl into the bedroom and tossed it on Johnson before he threw a lighter on her.

Johnson’s neighbour Mellissa Fraser testified that Johnson ran out of the house covered in flames. She stated that “flesh was falling from her body” as she ran to her and ran down the street, screaming, “Delon! Why you do this to me!”

16

Caribbean Star Newspaper $412M in contracts awarded for improving cleanup efforts

by NDCs, Municipalities November 7–13, 2014

Y

ET another lump sum of $412M in contracts was awarded by the Ministry of Local Government yesterday to increase the efforts, in Georgetown and in the regions, of Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), Municipalities and Regional authorities in the ‘Clean-Up My Country’ Programme.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT The awareness and involvement of the public has always been the intention of the national clean-up efforts and while some NDCs actively engage in exercises, others are yet to show their capacity to follow, Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker has said.

“Part of our [Government’s] investment has gone into building that capacity where it doesn’t exist, and strengthening that capacity where it exists but is somewhat unnoticeable,” Minister Whittaker added.

The Local Government system in Guyana was developed in the 19th Century during the post-slavery era and over the centuries has developed into a diverse system that boasts six municipalities and 65 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils. $1B MASSIVE CLEAN-UP The Guyana Government earlier this year approved $1B for a massive clean-up campaign extending across the ten administra-

tive regions. $500M was set aside for the Georgetown Clean-up while $100M was set aside for clean-up of Le Repentir Cemetery. The clean-up of the other regions will be covered by the remaining $500M. A great part of the programme was set towards the procurement of equipment for use in NDCs, municipalities and by regional bodies. “We have procured a number of tractors and trailers to give to as many NDCs as possible,” said Whittaker. While acknowledging that some NDCs are in need of help, Whittaker made no bones about some NDCs being able to purchasing tractors and trailers on their own strength.

GENEQUIP CONTRACTS Of the contracts awarded during yesterday’s meeting at the Local Government Ministry boardroom, Kingston, General Equipment Guyana Limited (GENEQUIP) received most of those contracts with over $256M for the supply of 45 tractors and 45 trailers.

Giving brief remarks on the contracts awarded, the Local Government Minister said: “A lot of investment is in strengthening that capacity so that the NDCs and the Municipalities can do more towards the clean-up of the environment and the maintaining of the newfound environment.”

Last August, it could be recalled, as published by this newspaper, the Eccles/Rams-

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Norman Whittaker (centre) with contract awardees and other representatives from the Local Government Ministry burg NDC purchased one John Deere tractor and trailer and one Bobcat Skid-Steer Loader from MACORP Guyana, and General Equipment Guyana Limited to the sum of $13M. BINS AROUND CITY Additionally, indiscriminate dumping continues to be priority concern for the Local Government Ministry. Adding to the distribution of tractors and trailers to the various NDCs to deal with indiscriminate dumping, the subject Ministry has similarly procured 145 skip-metal bins from DAX contracting at a value of $33.1M. Some of these bins will be placed around the capital city while others will be distributed throughout the regions.

In other contractual awards, MACORP

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received some $44M for the supply of five mini-excavators to be used in the regional efforts, while Puran Brothers managed to cop two contracts at a grand total of $64.8M for the supply of 5,500 barrels for use as household receptacles, and 600,000 garbage bags.

The second phase of the landfill site Access Road at Zorg-en-Hoop in Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice) was contracted to J.B. Brothers in the sum of $6M. A deadline of December 31, 2014 still stands for the expenditure of $1B under the Government’s national clean-up programme.

The Local Government Ministry anticipates that other works will be contracted for and completed in the coming weeks, according to Permanent Secretary in the Local Government Ministry, Collin Croal.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

T

November 7–13, 2014

17

K/News engages in BLACKMAIL to intimidate persons

HERE has been a great debacle within the media recently, concerning the illegal tapping, distortion and manipulation of a conversation between the Attorney General (AG) of Guyana Anil Nandlall and a senior reporter of Kaieteur News Leonard Gildarie. While many critics have been swift to condemn the conversation that was attributed to the AG, those same critics have been silent on the trespasses and violations made by the Kaieteur News, more specifically its publisher Glenn Lall, who made public the recording and lodged a copy of same with the Police.Even though the Government highlighted the illegality of Kaieteur News, recording and distorting a private conversation of one of its ministers, not much heed has been paid to the impunity with which the Kaieteur News has been invading the fundamental right of persons to their privacy, unhindered. A right that if circumvented will damage the very fabric that constitutes the pillars of an ordered society.

These underpinnings of the Glenn Lall’s refusal to respect that fundamental right to the sanctity of privacy, has started to unravel itself. It is now in the public domain that Lall has in his possession illegal recordings of members of the Judiciary, the Diplomatic sector, other Government functionaries, the business community and members of the combined Opposition – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC).

Speaking to this newspaper under the condition of anonymity, out of fear of being targeted, a well-known public source said, “the recent release of the Attorney General’s recording in a distorted form has demonstrated the willingness of the Publisher of Kaieteur News to use this private information that he has amassed through illegitimate means as a tool, or as a trump card to exact revenge, blackmail, or intimidate persons.”

APNU’s Member of Parliament (MP) and attorney-at-law James Bond, who recognised this and publicly admonished Lall for invading the privacy of others, was met with intimidation from Lall, who it is reported, threatened to use a recording that he has of Bond against him. Bond had said, “Glenn, you have a responsibility, as a citizen, not to violate the rights and privacies of other citizens. By spying on your own people, you have endangered their sources and betrayed the confidence of your staff.

No one is going to feel comfortable speaking to any member of your staff. You have crossed the line and you are wrong.” Bond’s remarks, which were made on Facebook, have since been removed because of the reported threats made to him by Glenn Lall.

This by itself provides “glaringly and unbiasedly, the unethical, illegal and immoral depths that the Publisher of Kaieteur News is willing to go to promulgate his agenda with impunity”, the source said.

The Government in a statement has since emphasised that Lall orchestrated those illegal attacks of recording and distorting private conversations and hacking into the emails of public and private personalities, in an attempt to avoid an impending audit by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), as a result of criminal charges filed against

Lall and his relatives for evasion of taxes to the tune of $100M on the importation of two luxury vehicles.

Observers have said that it is only a matter of time before those same organisations that have been condemning the Government Minister and remaining silent on the fundamental issue of the infringement on a person’s right to privacy, become, or if not already are, part of that invasion of priva-

cy which the publisher of Kaieteur News is seemingly promulgating.

The source also pointed out to this newspaper that “only in Guyana can a man openly blackmail the Government and other personalities under the rubric of freedom of the press to avoid impending criminal charges and not be put in jail. Had this been the case in the United States it would’ve been an entirely different ball game.”

Mr. Glenn Lall, Kaieteur News publisher

18

November 7–13, 2014

Caribbean Star Newspaper

Call 347-759-3934 OR 347-661-9930

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

19

A THANKFUL HEART CAN SING GOD’S PRAISE The Prophet Jeremiah wrote the Book of Lamentations in a time when his people Israel were defeated by the Babylonians and the best of them were taken away as captives. The captives were located in Babylon and came under the authority of the Babylonian system of government. Their daily lifestyle was interrupted along with the most important thing, that is, their sacrificial system of worship, away from the Temple and unable to keep the Feasts as God required of them.

Psalm 137:4-6 shows their cry: “How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land? If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.”

That is what sin does to God’s people. If we walk contrary to God’s Word, we will step out of His grace and lose His blessings. Satan will lure us into his spider web and the “snare of the fowler” which is the hunter’s trap. It is a downward spiral without Christ. Then the lament begins.

There is good news.

The good news is that God is love. He is forgiving to the penitent. He restores our joy and salvation. Jeremiah took the rebellion of his people and its consequences personal. When the suffering began as they were defeated and taken into captivity, the prophet wept bitterly.

He wrote in Lamentations 3:1-6 “I Am the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath. He hath led me, and brought me into darkness, but not into light. Surely against me is he turned; he turneth his hand against me all the day. My flesh and my skin hath he made old; he hath broken my bones. He hath builded against me, and compassed me with gall and travail. He hath set me in dark places, as they that be dead of old.”

But in his grief, he remembered something about God’s kindness in spite of all Israel’s failures. “This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I

hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.”

(Lam. 3:21-26) Captive? Yes. Totally abandoned? Absolutely not!

There is hope in the God of Heaven who loves His own. He is ready to forgive and restore! Jeremiah found something to be thankful for. He remembered God’s display of power to deliver Israel from Egypt, His wonderful provisions in the wilderness for 40 years, His power to defeat the Canaanites and give the Promised Land to His people for a witness in the earth. The prophet Jeremiah began to exalt God for His goodness in spite of the nation’s sins.

Remember God’s goodness of the past.

My friend, you might have been afflicted, hurt, deceived, cast into grief, betrayed, or disappointed.

You are tempted to think God does not care for you. You ask, “How can this happen if God is good?”

We can speculate, but no one really has an answer to that. This I know – there is hope in God! Like Jeremiah, we can reflect on His goodness and be thankful in spite of our circumstances. The remembrance of His goodness will revive your faith. May I ask you to reflect on something He has done for you in the past? Did He ever let you go hungry? Did He ever heal you when you asked Him for healing? Did He

forgive you when you asked Him for forgiveness? Do you remember some situation that caused you anxiety, but now you look back and say it turned out good anyway? Someone said He is too wise to make a mistake, too powerful to fail, and too loving to be unkind.

Let us re-read Lamentations 3:21-26 in the Amplified Bible for some more clarity. “But this I recall and therefore have I hope and expectation: It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not.

They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness. The Lord is my portion or share, says my living being (my inner self); therefore will I hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him. The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for Him, to those who seek Him [inquire of and for Him and require Him by right of necessity and on the authority of God’s word]. It is good that one should hope in and wait quietly for the salvation (the safety and ease) of the Lord.”

Don’t worry. Have faith and be thankful.

Life does not always go the way we plan. There are bumps in the road. The waters might get rough sometimes. Storms come our way unexpectedly. Remember what Jesus told us in Matthew 6:25-33 “Therefore I say unto you, Take no

thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on.

Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

The old hymn says “When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.” A thankful heart will sing His praises in spite of our disappointments. The joy of the Lord is our strength. Sing His praises.

Take your family to church this weekend.

Pastor Haniff Bacchus Calvary Assembly

of God

102-07 Rockaway Blvd, Ozone Park, NY 11417 Tel. 718-659-4500 www.calvaryozone.org

20

F

Caribbean Star Newspaper Father of four killed after leaving uncle’s wake

November 7–13, 2014

RANKLYN Bennett Beveney, a 54-year-old father of four who resided at lot 37-38 Plantain Walk Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara was early yesterday morning killed when he lost control of the motorcycle he was riding and collided with a bridge.

A female companion who was the pillion rider on the motorcycle, CG 1027, told family members and the police that the man’s vision became blurred by the high beam of a truck travelling in the opposite direction.

The man who is also known as

‘Rudy’ in his village was at the time heading east along the East Coast Highway to drop the woman at Enterprise after they were both at the wake of Randolph Rodney, Beveney’s 72-year-old uncle who was killed in a road accident last Friday evening while crossing the road. Both men are from Beterverwagting Village.

The dead man’s wife Dawn Cadogan Beveney said she was at home yesterday morning when his relatives visited her, enquiring whether he had slept home.

They had been told that the man might have been in an accident

‘DEAD’: Franklyn Bennett Beveney and died.

The woman and her children then visited the accident scene

but the man was not there. However, other relatives went to the hospital where they positively identified the body of Beveney.

This is not the first time that Beveney who is a lover of motorcycles was in a road accident.

Ironically, yesterday morning prior to the accident, the motorcycle had developed mechanical problems at the exact spot where the man’s uncle was killed two nights earlier and whose wake Beveney was returning from when he met his demise.

Asked about the female companion the man was travelling

with when he crashed into the bridge, relatives indicated that they did not know her. She was however at the hospital suffering from minor injuries to the head and arm.

On Friday night Randolph Rodney was attempting to cross the road when he was struck by a vehicle and later died while receiving medical attention. The police are still investigating that accident, even as the truck driver who is said to have caused Beveney to lose control of his motorcycle cannot be located as he continued along his way.

Raped 12-yr-old gives birth to baby girl

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OURCES have confirmed that the 12-year-old interior resident who had reportedly been raped by her stepfather and two other persons has successfully delivered a baby girl late on Sunday night into yesterday morning.

The Guyana Chronicle was informed that the child, who was in protective care, was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital after she began experiencing the onset of labour pains. Shortly after being admitted to the hospital’s maternity ward, she was taken to the theatre to give birth to her child, under much supervision and monitoring by doctors.

Information reaching this newspaper yesterday suggested that three persons are likely to face the heat over the rape of the child, even as tests are to be carried out to determine which one of the three persons is actually father to the pre-teen’s baby.

Contacted on developments of the investigation, Crime Chief Leslie James reported that the police are yet to send the file pertaining to the investigation to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.

Head of the Child Care and Protection Agency, Ms Ann Green, yesterday told this publication that the department has done all that needs to be done to facilitate police investigations into the matter.

Green said that statements which were gathered by the department were handed over to the police, and the department awaits feedback from the police.

When the news first broke about the rape of the child, Green was quoted in this newspaper as saying that no person should be allowed to rape children and walk away with impunity. She said the practice must stop, and that there are laws which protect children.

The pre-teen will be returned to her protective care after she has been discharged from the hospital, and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through the Child Care and Protection Agency, would be taking care of her child until such time that the 12-year– old is capable of mothering her child in a responsible manner.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

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Life insurance can help you protect your home You and your family have worked hard to purchase your home, any rental properties, or other real estate holdings. You qualified for that mortgage due to your income level, excellent credit rating, and financial history. But what would happen if something unexpected happened to you? Besides the emotional stress, a surviving spouse may experience a significant decrease in household income that could lead to foreclosure. That’s why many banks and mortgage companies encourage homeowners to purchase mortgage life insurance.

E

ssentially, you purchase mortgage life insurance so that in the event of a sudden death, funds are avail-

able to meet any outstanding mortgage balance. The type of insurance you purchase can greatly affect your surviving

family members’ options. Let’s look at some options.

Life insurance from a lender vs. an insurance company.

When you purchase insurance from a bank or mortgage company, in most cases you pay the premiums but the lender receives the proceeds at the insured’s death, and your family receives the deed to the house.

However, sometimes surviving families may not want to keep their homes. They may want to move closer to other family members or relocate for different reasons like a new job. Personally owned life insurance offers more choices and control because the surviving beneficiaries—not the lender—receives the insurance proceeds. Then they decide what to do with the mon-

ey, whether it’s paying off the mortgage in one lump sum, continuing to pay it down periodically, or selling the house.

And, personally owned life insurance is portable, which means, if you move in a few years, you won’t have to replace your insurance (which could be costly). Furthermore, even after the mortgage is paid, personally owned life insurance can provide other valuable benefits.

Make a choice today.

Whether you decide to purchase mortgage life insurance through a bank or insurance agent, the key is to be prepared. There is a real chance that someday one person will be completely responsible for your family’s finances. Taking the necessary steps today can ensure your family’s financial future tomorrow.

This educational third-party article is provided as a courtesy by Indra Puran, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Gold miners charged with stealing $6M in cash, raw gold after beating trader

November 7–13, 2014

5 sea turtles die in nets

A

FTER five sea turtle carcasses were found entangled in fishing nets at Salybia Beach last week president of the Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago, Gupte Lutchmedial, is calling on Government to implement a “no fishing zone” patrolled by the Coast Guard to protect sea turtles.

He is also suggesting compensation for the affected fishermen at a cost of about three to four million.

Minister of the Environment and Water Resources Ganga Singh in response said the issue of no fishing zones was being looked at but will have to be worked out in consultation with fishermen.

The ministry in a media release reported that on October 28 game wardens responded to a call about five sea turtle carcasses – two Green Sea Turtles and three Loggerheads – which were found entangled in fishing nets at Salybia Beach.

Upon investigation, the carcasses were removed and an overnight surveillance was carried out. No persons were apprehended, but the fishing net was removed and destroyed, the ministry reported.

The Forestry Division confirmed the turtles were caught in gill nets off the east coast of Trinidad.

In 2014, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) designated five species of sea turtles as Environmentally Sensitive Species (ESS): the Leatherback, Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and the Loggerhead and it is illegal to kill any turtle according to Section 4 of the Fisheries Act, Chapter 3.

Lutchmedial told Newsday at Manzanilla about 90 percent of the turtles were caught in gill nets. He noted that before all turtles were protected they would be sold for meat but now they are discarded.

He said another problem is when shark nets are set 20 to 30 feet under the surface of the water the turtles get trapped.

“They not setting net to kill turtles.

They setting net to make a living,” he said.

Lutchmedial pointed out Suriname has declared areas where turtles come onto the beach as no fishing zones, but said this is more difficult for Trinidad because it is so small. He said Government is spending so much money on turtle conservation – Ganga reported $38.6 million had been allocated to turtle protection – then “why not compensate the fishermen not to set the net”.

Singh told Newsday to implement a fishing zone the ministry will have to engage fishermen in the area. He recalled that previously when fisheries fell under the Ministry of Food Production that process had begun and was being looked at.

Singh explained there are several issues involved when dealing with affected fishermen, how to compensate them and the level of compensation.

“We have to have a concrete proposal to find the balance. Protection of turtles and livelihood of the fishermen,” he said.

On the suggestion of Coast Guard patrols, Singh said their capability will need to be “ramped up” but it would be premature to call them in at this stage. He noted the EMA Turtle Village Trust and community groups like Nature Seekers have been monitoring 29 beaches in Trinidad and seven in Tobago and there were also game wardens and community wardens.

On the recent find of the carcasses, Singh expressed his belief that those types of “see through” nylon nets had been banned. He called for more responsibility from fishermen and advised that if they know turtles take a certain path they should not fish in that area.

“The fishermen (should) practice sustainable fishing and to maintain Trinidad and Tobago as a focal point for the sea turtles,” he stressed.

Singh said the keys to the issue was to build awareness, have education and enforcement and if there is only one of these elements then it will not be successful.

B Banks DIH Chairman, Clifford Reis (left) and General President of the General Workers Union, Norris Witter signing the agreement as Techla Gonsalves looks on.

Dominceo Watson

T

wo gold miners were yesterday remanded to prison after being charged with robbing a business acquaintance of over $6M worth of cash and raw gold.

The charge against Dominceo Watson and Mark Anthony is that on October 29, at Mazaruni, being armed with guns, they robbed Manael De Araiyo of $4,081,000 and 10 ounces of raw gold valued $2M, which were all the property of Anderson Batista.

Watson, 26, of Lot 102 Strathspey, East Coast Demerara (ECD) and Anthony, of Lot 100 Melanie, ECD, were not required to plead to the indictable charge of robbery-under-arms when it was read to them by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry before whom they appeared in Georgetown yesterday.

The prosecution’s case is that Watson and Anthony went to the business place of De Araiyo, whom they know, and beat him with their guns, entered the premises and stole the articles mentioned in the charge from a canister.

Prosecutor Michael Grant said that the men went to De Araiyo’s shop under the pretence of being interested in selling raw gold. He told the court that Watson then proceeded to show De Araiyo a piece of raw gold and that as the man was looking at the mineral, they pulled out guns, which they used to beat him. Grant added that they then went into the shop and removed $4,081,000 and 10 ounces of raw gold, worth $2M, from a canister.

Grant noted that the matter was report-

ed and investigations conducted, which later led to the men being positively identified by the complainant at an identification parade.

Grant objected to bail, while citing, among other things, the amount of money involved and the use of a gun in the commission of the offence. He also suggested that because the attack occurred in the Mazaruni and the men reside on the East Coast of Demerara, there is a likelihood they would not return to court to stand trial. He further said that because the men are acquainted with the complainant, there may be witness tampering.

But attorney Peter Hugh, who represented the two men, strongly contested the prosecution’s objections, while insisting that his clients would attend court if granted bail, irrespective of where they live.

According to him, his clients were not at the location of the robbery nor were they in any way involved with the attack.

In those circumstances, he requested reasonable bail, while noting that the men posed no risk of flight, had no antecedents nor pending matters and had been fully co-

Mark Anthony operating with the police.

The lawyer also complained to the court of his clients being kept in custody for more than five days, in contravention of their right not to be held for more than 72 hours without charge.

Although the magistrate ordered the prosecution to investigate the claim, she informed both men that they would be remanded to prison. Their matter was transferred to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for November 13.

Banks DIH, union sign new agreement

anks DIH Limited and the General Workers Union (GWU) yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding at the Banks DIH Limited conference room paving the way for more than 1300 workers to get increased salaries and fringe benefits.

After three weeks of negotiations, the company and the Shop Stewards arrived at a three-year agreement which commenced from the 1st October and

ends on 30th September, 2017.

The agreements include increases in travel, meal and overtime allowances and salaries.

According to Banks DIH Chairman, Clifford Reis, the accord provides for a six per cent increase in the first year, four per cent in the second and two per cent in the third for salaried employees and in the last year there can still be discussions.

General President of the GWU, Norris Witter told this newspaper that in terms of workers’ performance incentives, there are three targets.

In achieving the first target the worker is entitled to thirty per cent, upon achieving the second target the worker will receive forty per cent and on the achieving the third, the worker will receive fifty per cent of his or her basic salary.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

27

Voice Of The Youth M

y name is Shaw Ryan Khan. I am the son of Shaw M. Khan and Camille Zeena Khan and I am the grandson of Haji Ali Akbar Khan and Azeezan Khan from Canegrove, Guyana ,as well as Harry Singh and Lillian Ganpati Singh from Industry, Guyana. My respect to my parents and my grandparents always.

There are so many topics I want to write about. It’s come to a point where my brain is being filled with thoughts of things to write about. Even when I write an article about one topic, a piece of my mind still wanders away to think about another topic. It’s funny because I have so much to say but so little time and space to say it. How can I write topic A so easily when a piece of me is already thinking about topics B through Z? Don’t get me wrong, I don’t consider it a bad thing. I consider it pretty cool. To me, it makes me feel like my brain is active and pumping, and it feels good! I guess this is God’s way of showing me that I am getting ever so close to becoming ready for my next journey in life; becoming a successful and brilliant lawyer.

Up until Tuesday, I was conflicted as to what I wanted to write about but , like always, I have wonderful individuals in my life that help me to choose, even if it’s indirectly helping me (Which it mostly is). I remember being in class on Tuesday. The topic was marriage. While we were in class, a student came in late.

As she sat down, she began to cry. The professor asked her if she was okay. She started crying even more and told us why she was crying. It turns out that she and her friend had a big fight. And she is crying because she realizes that the fight was not worth it and their friendship is much more precious. But, she doesn’t know how to approach her friend again.

My professor smiled and told the entire class of a story of two friends walking on a beach. “Class, there is a story of two friends walking on a beach. While they were walking, they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other in the face.

The one who got slapped did not say anything back. Rather, he wrote in the sand, ‘today, my best friend slapped me in the face’. They kept on walking until they decided it was extremely hot. Both of them decided to go into the ocean for a swim.

As they entered the ocean and started to swim, the boy who got slapped swam further into the ocean without realizing it.

The water became much more difficult to swim in the further he swam out. He began to drown because he could not keep his head above the water. However, the other boy swam out, grabbed onto his friend who was drowning, brought him to shore, and helped him to recover. After he recovered from the near death experience, the boy wrote on a stone, ‘today, my best friend saved my life’. The other boy was extremely puzzled. He said, “After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now you wrote on a stone…Why?” The other boy replied, “When someone hurts us, we should write it down in the sand where waves of forgiveness can wash it away.

But, when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wave can ever erase it.” Class,

do you understand the moral of this story?”…. The entire class was confused. I started to laugh a little because his stories always have such a deep meaning.

He smiled and finally told us the moral of the story; “It takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but an entire lifetime to forget them. True friendship is a strong bond that cannot be broken just because of an argument or a disagreement. There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.” My professor did it again, he solved my problem without even asking what the problem was. He made me realize that friendship is something I want to talk about.

I won’t lie, I am still learning about life.

Regardless what I talk about and what I write, I am still learning new ideas and new values of life each day. To be honest with you, up until July of this year, I still had the outdated idea of life that made me believe you can only have one best friend. I always thought it would be impossible to share love equally to more than one person whom you consider to be a best friend. Before I begin, I must say that I talked about my best friend Ramesh in a previous article; He is still my best friend, our friendship still continues to grow even to this day. In fact, it’s even my hope that he will be my best man whenever I get married! I am so very blessed to have him as my best friend.

But, let’s continue with what I was saying...In September of 2013, God began to start opening my eyes to see the truth.

And boy am I apparently a slow learner!

It took me so long to realize the truth but I’m glad I did. In September of last year, I met a kid named Nick. At first, I thought I would not get along with him because he is younger than me and most likely an immature person. But I was wrong. It turns out that he is a very mature and very respectable individual who will, without a doubt in my mind, become extremely successful and make his parents proud.

As months passed, my friendship with him grew more and more. It’s harsh to say but I did not consider him a best friend as of yet. I always hesitated when I introduced him to my other friends and family.

I would always introduce him as one of my greatest friends but I never had the realization that he is actually one of my best friends. I began to realize it as time went on but in July, I knew it was true.

It sounds corny but one of the greatest moments for my 20th birthday was when Nick gave me his present. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t judge a person based on their gift. And don’t get jealous, but his gift touched my heart a lot. I wish I can show you the gift he gave me; it was very sincere, humble, and precious. It made me realize how much of a friend I mean to him and made me realize that he took time to create this unique gift. It is a picture of me and him during my mother’s birthday party and at the side of the picture, it read “The meaning of being special is found in a person like you. A friend who is thoughtful in everything they say and do. A person who betters my life, by being a part of it each day. Someone who touches my heart, in a special and unique

way. A person who’s always giving, and willing to help all they can. Who truly gives from the heart showing they care for who I am. This friend I have found in you, is as special as one could be. And I am so blessed in my life, that you’ve been a friend to me.” Majrooh Sultanpuri wrote, in his song Meri Dosti Mera Pyaar, “Dosti ko maane to sab dukh dur”.

This translates to, “Those who believe in friendship, all of their sorrows are wiped away.” My best friend, my brother from another mother, Nick and Ramesh, are both prime backings of that statement.

With friends like those two, how can I ever be sad? True friendship is a beautiful gift that, once given to you, should be cherished throughout your life.

Having a true friend is one of the most amazing things to have in life.

And, it’s one of the best things you can be considered. It is one of the most expensive items in the world, because it has yet to be properly given a monetary value. No amount of money, or math, or science in this world can ever come up with the result of how much true friendship is worth. From my experience, I’ve found that a true friend is someone who will always stand beside you no matter what. A true friend looks up to you when the rest of the world is looking down, they let you step on their toes to help you get on your feet, they know most of your faults and care the least about it, they don’t complain when you neglect them but only when you neglect yourself. A true friend is someone who you can always open up to, who always believes in you in a way no one else seems to. True friendship is truly precious and should always be kept untainted.

Allow me to tell you one more story. It is a story of two friends who were stranded on a desert island. They had no form of technology they can use nor did they know where they were. Being strong believers of god, they felt that the only thing they can do is pray that God helps them. But, like always, they wanted to make this a little competition to see whose prayer was more powerful. So, they decided to divide the island in half and each of them will stay on their side of the island. The first thing that was prayed for was food. The next morning, the first man woke up to find a beautiful apple tree on his side of the land. So, he began to eat. The second man’s land remained empty. The next day, the first man prayed for a house, some clothes, and more food to eat. In the next morning, he found that there was a huge mansion with closets full of clothes and a fridge full of tasty food and treats. The second man still had nothing. A week went by and the first man became bored and missed his real home. So, the first man prayed for a ship and the next morning, he found a ship on his side of the island that was ready to go when he was ready. The first man boarded the ship and decided to leave the second man on the island because he felt he was completely wrong about his friend; he thought he was a good and faithful believer but after seeing that none of his friend’s prayers were answered, he knew he thought wrong. As the ship was about

to leave, the first man heard a voice from Heaven. “Why are you leaving your friend on this island?” The first man responded by saying “I prayed for all this stuff and it’s mine alone since I prayed for it. My friend is not a true believer and is not faithful to you, God. He does not deserve anything.” God responded by saying “You are wrong. He only had one prayer, which I answered. And if it wasn’t for that prayer, you would not have received any of my blessings.” The first man was shocked. He asked God what the second man could have possibly prayed for that should make him feel like he owes his friend anything. God responded by saying, “He prayed that all your prayers be answered.” This story, although fictional, depicts what true friendship really is. I am not saying that true friends are only evident when one sacrifices his life for the other. I won’t say that because that is too extreme. This story shows us that a true friend would be happy to just see his/her friend happy.

There is a poem that will help me sum up my points in this article; “When you are sad, I will dry your tears. When you are scared, I will comfort your fears.

When you are worried, I will give you hope. When you are confused, I will help you cope. When you are lost and can’t see the light, I shall be your beacon, shining ever so bright. This is my oath to you, I pledge until the end. Why? You may ask…Because you are my friend…”

Before I end my article, I just want to say this; may God continue to bless each and every one of you and I wish for you to achieve peace and serenity in your lives!

Lastly my readers, in your journey through life, I hope you heed my advice. I want nothing except peace and serenity.

And remember this; “The world is round so that friendship may encircle it.”

God bless you all and see you in two weeks!

(Like my articles? Want to give me feedback? Do you have a topic suggestion for my next article? Let me know! Add me via Facebook @ Facebook.com/ ryankhan0721 or give me a call @ 646-269-8227 or 718-8491006)

28

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

World News Highlights

SEOUL – North Korea’s state television showed leader Kim Jong Un on Thursday walking with a limp but without a cane in the clearest indication yet that he was recovering from an unconfirmed health problem that had kept him sidelined for more than a month.

AMMAN – A U.S.-led coalition that was set up to fight Islamic State bombed the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front and another radical faction in northwest Syria overnight, rebels and residents said on Thursday.

BELGRADE – Dozens of prison inmates in Serbia appealed to the country’s top human rights official on Thursday, saying they faced spend-

M

ing more time behind bars than necessary due to an almost two-month-old strike by lawyers.

KIEV – Ukrainian forces denied allegations by pro-Russian separatists that they had launched a new offensive in eastern Ukraine on Thursday, saying they were strictly adhering to a ceasefire agreement that has come under increasing strain.

accused the United States on Thursday of firing a broadside against President Vladimir Putin by opening a money-laundering investigation into a member of his inner circle.

WASHINGTON – The United States said it conducted air strikes on Wednesday night against the so-called Khorasan group of al Qaeda-linked militants based in Syria, saying the group was plotting to attack Europe or the United States.

DAKAR – Inspired by protests in Burkina Faso that ousted one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, opposition activists across much of the continent are hoping for a “Black Spring” to mirror the Arab Spring. The experience of Clement Mierassa suggests their hopes are premature.

LONDON – Ed Miliband, the leader of Britain’s center-left opposition Labour party, on Thursday described media reports that members of his own party were conspiring to oust him as “nonsense”, as he sought to keep his bid to become prime minister on track.

MOSCOW – The Kremlin

BRUSSELS – Belgian police

Netflix a threat to cable, satellite operators, experts say

iami, Nov 4 (EFE).– Netflix's offer of pay-per-view video and movie streaming via Internet is a threat to the $27 billion-a-year cable and satellite television business in Latin America, according to industry executives and insiders gathered in Miami.

What is at stake, Dataxis Latin American Vice President Ariel Barlaro told Efe, is who will dominate a regional market that currently has 53.7 million cable or satellite subscribers.

"This industry, both in the United States and in Latin America, wonders what the future will be like," he said during Dataxis' NextTV Latin America conference.

Over-the-top services such as Netflix offer "a direct entertainment solution" with lower cost although "they depend on the quality of the Internet connection the user has," said David Guerra, vice president of Emerging Markets Communication, a company providing global landline and satellite communica-

tions.

The OTT model, Guerra told Efe, worries cable operators.

The transformation of the industry "has linked Latin America completely with the United States since the region has adopted the U.S. business model, programming and formats," Barlaro said.

The business might end up dominated by "traditional operators, new services such as Netflix and others that, for sure, will expand in Latin America, or directly by studios or media groups," he added.

Subscription TV reached 90 percent market penetration in the United States last year, while in Latin America

the level of penetration has surged from 20 percent in 2008 to 40 percent now, and it is projected to rise to 55 percent by 2018, Barlaro said.

Dataxis Latin American data shows that since its debut in Latin America in 2011, Netflix has grown to 3.3 million subscribers.

Mexico's America Movil, with 14.3 million subscribers, and U.S-based DirectTV, with 12.3 million customers share half of the subscription TV market in the region, followed

by Mexico's Televisa, 8.4 million; Argentina's Cablevision, 3.5 million; and Spain's Telefonica, with 3 million clients. EFE

and a few hundred protesters, including many dockers, clashed in central Brussels on Thursday after a largely peaceful march against reforms and cost-cutting measures of the new center-right government.

TRIPOLI – Libya’s Supreme Court on Thursday declared the internationally recognised parliament as unconstitutional, in a ruling likely to fuel further chaos in the north African oil producing nation.

AMSTERDAM – Accident investigators looking into the July crash of a Malaysia Airlines plane in eastern Ukraine said on Thursday they would probably hire local contractors to collect wreckage still beyond their reach because of a continuing pro-Russian insurrection.

SOFIA – The winner of Bulgaria’s parliamentary election signed an accord on Thursday to form a minority coalition government after a month of talks, a welcome breakthrough for a country reeling from a bank crisis and struggling to revive economic growth.

AMMAN – As Jordan joins a military campaign against Islamic State militants in Syria, tensions in Jerusalem pose a potentially bigger risk to a nation only slightly scathed by the turmoil sweeping the Middle East.

PRISTINA – The U.S. envoy to Kosovo broke with diplomatic protocol on Thursday to signal Washington’s growing impatience with the country’s political leaders, who have been arguing over who gets to rule the young Balkan nation.

Old Kitty Post Office demolished to make way for new $60M building

T

HE old wooden building that once housed the Kitty Post Office at Pike and Alexander Streets, Kitty, has been demolished to pave the way for the construction of a new building.

The edifice has been in disrepair for some time and construction is expected to start by this year-end, which will see a spanking new building at a cost of $60M. The building will house both the Kitty Post Office and the Kitty Health Centre following its completion in 2015.

In the meantime, customers are asked to utilise the Campbellville Post Office since they will be paying out old age pension, but Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD), Dependent’s Pension Fund, Ministry of Finance, Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Guyana Defence Force (GDF) pensions will only be paid at the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) head office at Robb Street.

Meanwhile, the Mahaicony Post Office is closed to facilitate construction of a new building and so customers are advised to transact business at the Mahaica Post Office.

The building will soon be demolished and pensions for T&HD, Dependent’s Pension Fund, Ministry of Finance, GPF and GDF will only be paid at Weldaad Post Office.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat(HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon at his weekly press conference last week at

Office of the President, explained that the Ministry of Health brought to Cabinet’s attention for its consideration, the relocation of the Kitty Health Centre to the Kitty Post Office building.

TWO SERVICES, ONE ROOF He said that the move has been supported by both entities and has gained Cabinet’s approval during their weekly meeting last week, since the abandonment of the Kitty Health Centre which was formerly housed at the Kitty market building, which is in a state of disrepair.

The HPS said that both services will be offered under the same roof, making this venture “very accommodating” to all.

Dr. Luncheon noted that, “The cost of the construction of the new building will be met by the Post Office Corporation [and] rental will be met by the Health Ministry to offset the cost.”

The building, he said, has been estimated on completion to cost $60M and construction work will begin in fiscal year 2014 and extend into 2015.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

29

PUZZLE! Fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain one instance of each of the numbers 1 through 9

Poem: Holidays

By Abdur-Raqeeb Rahaman Al Ihsan Academy

You’ve heard about many different holidays, Who celebrates them and their traditional ways.

Christian holidays like Easter, Are where they search for the adorable creature.

Easter eggs filled with chocolate, Which bring many stores a great profit.

Thanksgiving is about family and friends With the great fun you wish it would never end There are many different food to try, So many that you don’t have to be shy.

4 7 1 5 6 8 3 9 2

5 9 3 1 7 2 4 6 8

8 6 2 3 9 4 1 7 5

3 5 7 2 4 9 8 1 6

2 4 8 7 1 6 9 5 3

6 1 9 8 5 3 7 2 4

8

Halloween brings many kids joy, Princess costume for a girl and superman for a boy.

Kids gain free candy and sweets So much it can’t be beat

1 2 6 4 3 7 5 8 9

7 8 4 9 2 5 6 3 1

9 3 5 6 8 1 2 4 7

5

1

Other holidays like Yom Kippur In which Jews seek forgiveness and hear the ram horn roar.

Yom Kippur is the Jewish Day of Atonement, Where they also renew their religious intent.

6

3 1

Kwanzaa is celebrated in the winter At the end with a great dinner It brings unity among family They laugh and joke with each other happily

3

Other religious holidays like Eid, Are where Muslims greet and feed, There are only two Islamic holidays, Which starts with Eid Salaah as always.

6

4 5

9

2

4 7

8 5

9 4

These holidays are all celebrated for different reasons, But some of them are recognized in the same seasons.

1

3

3 1 6 8

What is Bullying?

My name is Khayam Bacchus and I am a very proud member of the Naujawaan Mandalee Youth Group/Shaanti Bhavan Mandir. As many of my peers and adults alike would agree, there is a big problem that exists in our society today and that problem is bullying. In this article, I will briefly explain what bullying is, some forms of bullying, target of bullies and what you can do to prevent/ stop bullying.

What is Bullying?

Bullying is someone (the bully) who uses superior strength or influence to intimidate or typically force an individual to do what one wants. Bullying can happen on the internet, school or even home.

Bullying can happen more than once.

Bullying includes making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally and excluding someone from the group on purpose.

Types of Bullying There are 3 types of bullying. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things.

Verbal bullying includes teasing, name calling, taunting and threatening to cause harm. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation. Social bullying in-

cludes: Leaving someone out on purpose, telling other children not to be friends with someone, spreading rumors about someone and embarrassing someone in public. Physical bullying involves hurting a person’s body or possessions. Physical bullying includes: Hitting/kicking, tripping/pushing, taking or breaking someone’s things and making mean or rude hand gestures.

Kids Involved in Bullying Kids who Bully: These children engage in bullying behavior towards their peers.

There are many risk factors that may contribute to the child’s involvement in the behavior. Often, these students require support to change their behavior and address any other challenges that may be

These children may encourage the bullying behavior and occasionally join in. Kids who Reinforce: These children are not directly involved in the bullying behavior but they give the bullying an audience.

They will often laugh or provide support for the children who are engaging in bullying. This may encourage the bullying to continue. Outsiders: These children remain separate from the bullying situation. They neither reinforce the bullying behavior nor defend the child being bullied. Some may watch what is going on but do not provide feedback about the situation to show they are on anyone’s side. Even so, providing an audience may encourage the bullying behavior.

influencing their behavior. Kids who are bullied: These children are the targets of bullying behavior. Some factors put children at more risk of being bullied, but not all children with these characteristics will be bullied. Sometimes, these children may need help learning how to respond to bullying. Kids who assist: These children may not start the bullying or lead in the bullying behavior, but serve as an “assistant” to children who are bullying.

How to Prevent Bullying Bullying could be prevented if you tell a teacher or someone of authority. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a teacher or an authority figure, reach out to a friend, speak to your parents or even an older sibling. Please take comfort in knowing that there is always someone out there you can reach out to for help when you are being bullied. Addressing it promptly is the best solution so please reach out to someone for help if you are faced with such a problem.

30

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

Speak when you are angry, and you will make the best speech you’ll ever regret. Lawrence J. Peter

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

The more you try to assert yourself at the beginning of the week, the more muddled things get. Try directing your energy toward a volunteer project, a team endeavor or helping someone else. And listen up. Much better stuff comes your way around Wednesday and Thursday. You look terrific in the spotlight, though it may have a hard time keeping up with you! From Friday through the weekend, couple your natural enthusiasm with thinking things through, especially when it comes to expressing yourself. Well-chosen words (with heart!) find their mark now.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22)

Your responses are right on target early in the week. Let your mind and heart both weigh in, and you’ll be golden. (The way you say things is great, too – you have a way with words.) Then, before you get bent out of shape on Wednesday or Thursday, ask yourself if you might just be taking things a little too seriously. A further inquiry might reveal a lot and be a big relief, too. From Friday through the weekend, your unique charms are getting noticed. You’re the star at a party, delightful on a date and generally wonderful (and wonderfully unpredictable) in any and all circumstances.

LIBRA

The weekly horoscopes are updated on every week to gives you an in-depth insight into your family, your love life, any career opportunities, friends and money issues.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Get together with others early in the week, whether it’s gathering input and expertise in a meeting at work, or seeing friends to laugh and talk things over. The more you open up, the better. Wednesday is good for starting something new, what with the surge of energy you’ve got coming. Just have a plan and stick to it somewhat! The days around Friday are all about you. You’re highly productive in all areas of life, and if you’ve got love on your mind, now’s the time to go for it – you’re hot. On Sunday, though, take a second look at something or someone.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Save the drama as the week gets started. Instead of engaging in it, try a little more research to develop a better understanding. A partner’s in the picture around Wednesday and Thursday, and two heads (or is it hearts?) are definitely better than one. Introduce a new idea to the two of you and see what happens. It’s liable to be a great time. Around Friday and Saturday, you might be in a rebellious mode. Just consider carefully who or what you’re challenging now – and why. You’re low-key on Sunday, and a tete-a-tete looks to be very productive.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Someone’s not saying exactly what they mean as the week gets going, and that someone might be you.

Instead of hedging, don’t be afraid to let someone know that you don’t know – yet. You’ll probably develop a better idea around Wednesday and Thursday, perhaps on the strength of some good advice or even an unmistakable sign. Moreover, what you say, even on the spur of the moment, has deep meaning. Friday and the weekend are more about questions than statements. Ask (and answer) some serious ones first, and things could get flirty on Sunday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Relationships might need a little breathing room at the beginning of the week. Instead of pushing an agenda, step back and see the real potential. If money’s involved, it’s very important to nail down the details around Wednesday and Thursday. Yes, it’s a sensitive issue, but if you don’t address it now, there could be trouble later. Looks like you’re ready to branch out from Friday through the weekend, maybe solo, or perhaps with a partner in crime. Make a plan that allows for the random factor that’s coming your way.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

It looks like something or somebody might throw you off early this week, but getting too riled up about it isn’t the most appropriate response. If it’s relationship related, there may be a way to find a compromise, and Wednesday and Thursday are prime for such discoveries. You can perceive new levels when it comes to situations, and you can also locate common ground now. Gratitude and smooth sailing are your reward, and from Friday through the weekend, your natural grace looks great. Romance is favored, too.

An element of surprise works in your favor as the week gets started. Use that impeccable sense of timing to show just how jaw-droppingly great you can be. Then, around Wednesday or Thursday, it may be tempting to get into a tangle with someone. But what do you have to gain? It could get way stickier than you think. Expect some excitement on Friday or over the weekend. If you want things to get even more intense (and knowing you, you do), let your real feelings be known. Be a little vulnerable – and be ready for just about anything!

You’ll need a serious kick-start if you want to get anything accomplished at the beginning of the week. Get the blood pumping with exercise and eat right for energy, and you might just be able to concentrate. When Wednesday and Thursday come, though, you’re on fire – thinking fast, making the right moves and wowing anyone and everyone. Fanning the flames of romance is favored now, too. Duty of some sort calls this weekend, and if you get right on it, you might just be surprised by the pleasure you’ll take in getting it done.

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

If you’re going to email someone early in the week, call instead. Or, better yet, say it face-to-face. Your personal touch is terrific now, whether it’s work related or personal. Expect some static around Wednesday or Thursday. Someone or some issue may be stressing you out, or your carefully planned schedule may get all mucked up. Just do your best and wait for things to smooth out, which should happen around Friday. Fun and love are highlighted through the weekend, with your powers of attraction seriously magnified. Sweet!

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

What do you really want – and what’s not going to cut it? It’s heavy stuff for the beginning of the week, but don’t get sidetracked from core values and goals. You’ll be in a fine position to think bigger around Wednesday and Thursday, when your personal possibilities suddenly expand exponentially. Keep your schedule open now!

Something that seems mundane on Friday or over the weekend has an odd element, one that demands attention. And starting Sunday, that odd element may have everything to do with love.

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20)

Your generosity with affection and your honesty regarding emotions has enormous ripple effects as the week gets started.

Dreams can come true now, perhaps in particularly unexpected ways! Life and love are a bit of a puzzle, though, around Wednesday and Thursday, and you might be missing a key piece. The person or occurrence you think has the answer probably doesn’t.

Look within, and get ready for things to make a lot more sense starting Friday. You can write your own ticket now. So where do you want to go?

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

31

Entertainment News

Halle Berry tries to reduce ex-Gabriel Aubry's child support

H

A

alle Berry is trying to reduce former partner Gabriel Aubry's child support, it has been revealed.

The 48-year-old actress seeks to reduce her monthly payments from about 16,000 dollars to 3,800 dollars, TMZ.com reported.

However, Aubry, the father of her 6-year-old daughter Nahla, claims he needs the money because he was unable to book modeling jobs after he brawled with Berry's current husband, Olivier Martinez, on Thanksgiving 2012.

Halle, who attacked Aubry as a deadbeat who is using child support to avoid having to work, said there is no case, no law, no logic that says a healthy, active man gets to simply live off child support that the wealthier mother earns.

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Eva Mendes back to work after motherhood ctress Eva Mendes steps out for the first time since giving birth and looks amazing.

Mendes gave birth to her and long time beau Ryan Gosling's first child, daughter Esmeralda.

Just six weeks after giving birth, a slim Mendes gets back to work, shooting a commercial here over the weekend, reports people.com.

On Saturday, Mendes, 40, sported a big smile and motherly glow as well as some fabulous fall fashion – black cardigan, matching crop trousers, a white Prada bag and brown ankle boots.

A source recently said that Gosling, 33, is madly in love with the baby while Mendes loves her new title of "mom" Gosling is currently filming his new

Tom Hanks to pen book of short stories

scar-winning actor Tom Hanks is set to write a book of short stories, inspired from his obsession with typewriters.

Publishing house Alfred A Knopf announced today that the stories will be loosely connected to photographs of typewriters from the 58-year-old star's collection, reported Entertainment Weekly.

Hank's love for typewriters is well-documented, he even co-developed a typewriter app called Hanx Writer for the

iPad. "I've been collecting typewriters for no particular reason since 1978, both manual and portable machines dating from the thirties to the nineties. The stories are not about the typewriters themselves, but rather, the stories are something that might have been written on one of them," Hanks said in a statement.

The book is yet to be titled, and a release date has not been set yet. The question remains on whether Hanks will write his book on a typewriter.

Michael Fassbender in talks to play Steve Jobs in biopic

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movie, The Nice Guys in Atlanta, and Mendes is receiving lots of "hands-on" help from Esmeralda's grandmothers, according to the source.

ichael Fassbender is in early talks to play the role of Steve Jobs in new biopic after Christian Bale refused the offer.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the makers of the Sony project, which is to be helmed by Danny Boyle, had previously approached Leonardo DiCaprio and Bale, both of whom had refused as DiCaprio had to shoot for The Revenant,

and The Dark Night star didn't feel he was right for the part.

The script is said to be divided into three acts that detail Jobs preparing for three presentations that came to define his life and the life of the company he co-founded, lost and came back to.

The film, which was penned by Aaron Sorkin, is being produced by Scott Rudin, Guymon Casady and Mark Gordon.

Benedict Cumberbatch engaged to girlfriend Sophie Hunter

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herlock star Benedict Cumberbatch is engaged to be married to girlfriend Sophie Hunter.

The actor announced the news by posting a notice in British newspaper The Times.

"The engagement is announced between Benedict, son of Wanda and Timothy Cmberbatch of London, and Sophie, daughter of Katharine Hunter of Edinburgh and Charles Hunter of London," the announcement read.

A spokesman for the 38-year-old star also confirmed the news, saying, "I am delighted to confirm this morning?s announcement that Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter are engaged."

The couple is yet to announce a wedding date.

Hunter, 36, an Oxford graduate, is a theatre director and actress.

Cumberbatch has gained a huge fan following thanks to his role as the modern day Sherlock in the British show. He

is in the race to make it to the Oscar short list for his role of Alan Turing in 'The Imitation Game'.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Hit-and-run case: Salman Khan was not drunk, witness tells court

November 7–13, 2014

Ranveer Singh, Parineeti Chopra and Ali Zafar get inked for Kill Dil

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anveer Singh, Parineeti Chopra and Ali Zafar, who are playing the lead roles in upcoming movie 'Kill Dil', recently got the title of the movie inked on their body, in Mumbai.

The movie also marks the return of di-

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rector Shaad Ali after a seven year hiatus. The trailer and music of the film are already being released and has been well received by the viewers.

Produced by Yash Raj Films, the movie is slated to release on 14th November 2014.

Nandana Sen: Nudity is a complicated issue

ctress Nandana Sen has gone bold on the screen to play renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma's muse in forthcoming "Rang Rasiya". She admits doing nude scenes is a huge responsibility and she had talked it out with her parents before giving her nod.

After remaining in the cans for more than five years, the period drama, based on Ranjit Desai's novel titled "Raja Ravi Varma", will unfold riots of colours and passion on the screen on Nov 7 with Randeep Hood in the role of the father of modern Indian art, and Nandana as his creative inspiration.

The film is set to revisit an era that was revolutionised by the painter who not only gave faces to gods and goddesses in his work, but also painted nudes.

As the muse, Nandana have done some bold scenes in the intense love story and she says that "nudity is a complicated is-

sue."

"It is something one need to think about a lot. I spent a lot of time discussing it with my patents, family before making the decision to do the part. The reason is not that I was afraid. When an artist decides to embrace nudity, it is a big responsibility.

If nudity is portrayed with beauty and aesthetically, then it's fine," added the actress.

She admits that it was not an easy decision.

"It was not an easy decision for me. I had long conversations as I wanted my parents to give me their thoughts on the scenes.

They are connected to art and culture.

They were excited about the script. They support me and by the time I said yes, I had over come all the fears," she added.

Talking about her character in the film she said: "I am playing Sugandha who is a combination of strength and softness and this is what makes her Ravi Varma's muse."

witness in the 2002 hit-and-run case involving superstar Salman Khan today said the actor was not smelling of liquor when he met him at his place a few hours after the mishap.

The prosecution's case is that Salman's car had rammed into a bakery in suburban Bandra killing one person and injuring four others who were sleeping outside on the pavement in the wee hours of September 28, 2002.

"I met Salman on the next day morning at 9 AM at his place (few hours after the mishap at around 3 AM) and hugged him, but he did not smell of alcohol," Chiky Pandey, brother of actor Chunky Pandey, told the court of sessions Judge D W Deshpande.

During cross-examination, Pandey told Salman's lawyer Srikant Shivade that the junction near the American Express Bakery (where the accident had taken place) was always busy with slow vehicular traffic movement.

Prosecutor Pradeep Gharat re-examined him on this point asking him whether there was heavy traffic at this junction all the 24 hours, to which the witness replied: "Not always."

Significantly, the mishap had occurred in the wee hours when there is hardly any traffic on road.

Pandey told the prosecutor during examination-in-chief that he had helped Salman buy an imported car for Rs 14 lakhs from Abdul Rehman through a customs clearing agent. (This question was

asked as it was the same car which had met with an accident on the ill-fated day).

Pandey further said that Salman had given two cheques of Rs 12 lakhs and Rs 2 lakhs to car owner Abdul Rehman. At the time of mishap, the vehicle was in the name of its owner and had not yet been transferred in Salman's name, he said.

Another witness, Salim Patel, a customs clearing agent, who had helped the actor in getting the car cleared from the customs after it was imported from Dubai, explained to the court the import procedures.

Salman did not appear before the court today as he was busy with the wedding preparations of his sister Arpita.

The court asked him to appear on November 24 and 25 when other witnesses would be examined.

Kerala court stays release of 'Rang Rasiya'

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n a blow to makers of Bollywood movie 'Rang Rasiya', claimed to be based on the life of legendary 19th century Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma, a Kerala court has stayed the release of the film which was due to hit theatres on Friday.

The interim stay Nandana Sen and Randeep Hooda in Rang Rasiya order was issued by the Mavelikkara novel titled 'Raja Ravi Varma'. Meanwhile, munsiff court in Alapuzha district yes- a PIL seeking a ban on the film has also terday on a complaint by Varma's grand been filed in the Kerala High Court. Acdaughter Indiradevi Kunjama. Judge cording to the petitioner, S Amrutha Prasun Mohan made it clear that the Kumar, the film portrays the artist as a makers of the movie should not exhibit it womaniser and claims that it was a true without adding a disclaimer that the film story. The petitioner pointed that a well has no connection with the personal life known artist had been depicted as a playboy and the makers of the film have not of Varma.

A munsiff court is the lowest court even given a disclaimer.

The film also violates provisions of the handling civil matters. The Ketan Mehta directed film is based on Ranjit Desai's Cinematograph Act, 1952, it alleged.

November 7–13, 2014 Caribbean Star Newspaper 'Pregnant' Hayden Panettiere says she weighs around 145 pounds

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Amanda Bynes

Amanda Bynes hopes to study psychology post recovery

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manda Bynes recently took to Twitter saying that she hopes to study psychology after she recov-

ers.

The 'She's The Man' star also claimed on the micro-blogging site that she's been diagnosed as "bi-polar and manic depressive" and has been taking her medicines, the Mirror reported.

She also said that she hopes to be released from her parents' care soon and then continued ranting about the fact that she needs to get a restraining order against Sam Lutfi, who sent her to the Aurora Behavorial Center and got conserved her by her parents.

Bynes had also said that she has been refused cash by her concerned parents, who are giving her an American Express gift card of around 50 dollars for her living expenses.

'Interstellar' star Jessica Chastain not interested in personally going to space

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nterstellar star Jessica Chastain has revealed that she is personally not interested in going to space.

The actress, who stars with Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway in the Christopher Nolan sci-fi blockbuster, said that she likes acting as if she is going to space, but she loves planet earth, her friends and family too much and doesn't want to be away from them, the New York Post reported.

Chastain added that Nolan has gone to huge lengths for the film, as there are no green screens, he built all the sets and grew 500 acres of corn.

ayden Panettiere, who is expecting her first child with fiance Wladimir Klitschko, has revealed that she now weighs around 145 pounds.

The 'Nashville' star said that the worst part about her weight gain is that her feet are still size five and they're going, and she believes they are about to snap from underneath her with the strain, E! Online, reported.

The actress said that much of the pounds can be attributed to water weight and her past experi-

ence of being a gymnast and that she's still quite muscular and has built extra muscle because of running around with 40 pounds of extra weight.

She also said that she is very ready to hold her baby girl and is going to be a very "hands on mom", and is thrilled that she's having a girl first because she feels like she knows a lot about raising a strong woman.

Panettiere added that she feels very empowered herself and thinks her daughter will too.

Hayden Panettiere

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

Caribbean Connections

Caribbean small islands will be first in region to suffer from rising sea levels NAROBI, Kenya, Monday November 3, 2014, CMC top United Nations official has warned that the small islands of the Caribbean will be the first territories in the region to suffer the effects of rising sea levels due to climate change.

Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program, Achim Steiner, said here on Saturday that the effects of climate change threaten the Caribbean’s tourism industries and, eventually, their “very existence”.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s release of the Fifth Assessment Report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Steiner said sea-level rise will have an “immediate impact in economic terms” on the Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS), stating that the Caribbean’s tourism infrastructure is 99 per cent along the coastline.

“Many small island nations are in a far more exposed situation simply because their territory is sometimes only two, three, four meters (6.5-13 ft.) above sea level,” he said, adding “therefore their very existence is being threatened.

“The changes also in, for instance, coral reefs and mangroves that are natural

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Macro image of visa and immigration stamps in US passport for BahamasNASSAU, Bahamas, Monday November 3, 2014, CMC he Bahamas government confirmed that 76 people had been arrested over the last weekend after they failed to meet the new requirements for staying legally in the country.

Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell also denied reports that children were detained and placed in the Carmichael Road detention center during the exercise on Saturday.

“Some people have expressed concern about children and I would only say that we are seeking the intervention of the Department of Social Services where this is necessary,” Mitchell told a news conference on his return to the country from the United Arab Emirates on Sunday.

He told reporters that the administrative measures announced by the department on work permits, certificates of identity and residency permits had gone into effect and on Saturday “there was a routine interdiction exercise …which resulted in some 76 arrests”.

Mitchell accused “some elements in the community” of transforming the exercise “into something which it is not”.

He said that from the time, there have been interdictions every day, every week and last weekend’s exercise “was no different from what the Department ordinarily does and should not be used to inflame passions.

“It appears now that some political operatives have gotten into the matter with a view to seeking to sow the seeds of division; I ask them to desist. I ask the lead-

ers of the Opposition parties to speak to trolls on social media to resist the temptation to sow seeds of discord. I have asked our supporters to do the same.”

Mitchell said that the situation should not be politicized and that he was asking “everyone to resist an “us or them situation.”

“I am not in that. Neither is this government. This is simply about enforcing the laws of the Commonwealth in a calm and quiet manner. The job has to get done to protect our borders. Neither fear, nor incitement should come out of this.

“These measures announced are of general application and are not targeted at any particular national group. No one should seek to play the victim in this.

We shall continue to work along with all national groups in the best interests of our country. If there are any complaints please advance those to the Director,” he added.

Last month, Mitchell said non-nationals living here would from November 1 have to show evidence that they have permission to live or work in the country.

In September, the government warned persons without the documents would be “arrested and charged and deported”.

from Pond Casse to Melville Hall the Nicholas Joseph Orville Liverpool highway, “not only adds one more chapter to the Dominica story, but also represents the writing of Dominican history from a local perspective”.

He added the two former prime ministers after whom the airport had been renamed “fought for and gave their lives in trying to create a new and free Dominica, free of the shackles of colonialism and at a time when the world was split into two ideological camps, allowing little wriggle room for small states like Dominica”.

Skerrit said that Dr. Liverpool, through his achievements in academia and the law, “has been one of the stalwarts in the development and modernization of Caribbean jurisprudence.

“He has discharged his responsibilities as law professor, Dean of the Faculty of Law of the University of the West Indies, legal consultant and ambassador, with distinction”.

Skerrit said the the names of the three Dominicans “will now be immortalized in

the pages of our history”.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Development, Youth Affairs and Sports, Jennifer Wallace-Lafond and prominent medical practitioner, Dr Hendricks Paul have been conferred with the island’s second highest award, the Sisserou Award of Honour for their work in education and medicine respectively.

The two are among 20 Dominicans recognized by the country.

The island’s third highest award, the Meritorious Service Award has been bestowed on Winnifred Valencia Webb for her work in youth development; former parliamentarian Anne Timothy for her public and community achievements; Jean Joseph for her work in the Diaspora and promoting Dominica in the United States; Bernadette George-Francis for early childhood education; and Darnley Guye for culture.

Journalist Morris Cyrille is among seven people and organizations receiving the Services Medal of Honour.

T barriers and help strengthen the resilience of these countries, if coral reefs are dying then clearly countries become more vulnerable,” he added.

Steiner also cited the impact of more intense hurricanes and other extreme weather events on countries whose economies cannot bear the cost of reconstruction.

On a more hopeful note, he praised proactive efforts by some Caribbean countries, such as Barbados, where “energy efficiency efforts and renewable deployment are now on the agenda of investment and national development planning”.

The efforts of the Barbados government were one reason the United Nations decided to mark 2014 World Environment Day in Barbados, Steiner said.

Dominica celebrates 36th anniversary of political independence

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ominican flag blowing in the wind.

Part of a series.ROSEAU, Dominica, Monday November 3, 2014, CMC – Dominica is observing the 36th anniversary of its political independence from Britain with the traditional military parade, honour of nationals and a message from Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit that the anniversary provides the opportunity to highlight and showcase the many attributes that define “our character as Dominicans.

“It is an occasion to recapture and project our folklore, our song, dance, music, dress cuisine and many of the other traditions that make us unique. But it is also a time to pause, to reflect on the progress we have made, to assess where we are, where we want to get to and determine how we can get there, remaining united, peaceful and strong,” Skerrit said in his Independence message to the nation.

The celebration is being held under the theme “Our Nation, Our Responsibility”, and Prime Minister Skerrit said it also provides for citizens to question whether or not “we have been faithful in discharging our responsibilities to ourselves, our families, our communities and to our country”.

Bahamas arrest 76 following crackdown on illegal migrants

Skerrit said as leader of the country while his administration had laid the groundwork for creating opportunities for the socio-economic development of Dominica, “we will not rest, for there is still a lot to be accomplished.

“One of the characteristics of a truly independent nation, is to be found in the recognition it gives to citizens who have blazed a trail of excellence and who have made profound sacrifice in service to the country and to the global community.”

He said in addition to the traditional presentation of meritorious awards, the independence celebration is being punctuated with two flagship events honouring three Dominicans.

Skerrit said the renaming of the Melville Hall airport to the Douglas-Charles airport, and the naming of the highway

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

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Thirteen year old St Lucian emerges as top performer in CXC mathematics CASTRIES, St. Lucia, Monday November 3, 2014, CMC thirteen year old St. Lucian – Dion Recal has emerged as the top performer in Mathematics at the CXC level, sharing the distinction with five other Caribbean students.

Recai, of St. Mary’s College (SMC) who is also the National Schools’ Chess Champion, wrote Mathematics and English in May according to Principal of SMC, Rowan Seon.

“He did the math paper so well as a third former that he is among the very best in the entire Caribbean, bearing in mind that math is written by about 90,000 students around the region, most of whom are fifth formers.”

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DION RECAL

The SMC Principal disclosed that the school tries its best to encourage the development of individual students.

“No boy coming into this school is like any other boy,” he told reporters.

Seon noted that although SMC has a system in place that an individual may write eight CXC subjects, there is no stipulation that it must apply to everyone. He said the system whereby students are only supposed to write a particular number of subjects is designed to achieve an expected overall average.

“But that is not our concern,” Seon asserted, adding that SMC’s objective is to encourage every student to do his best and to provide them with the needed support and encouragement.

Pharrell, Robin Thicke to face the music as allegations of Marvin Gaye rip-off head to court

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he judge has spoken and now a jury will decide if songwriter Pharrell “Happy” Williams and singer Robin Thicke ripped-off the work of Motown legend Marvin Gaye in the creation and execution of their 2012 megahit “Blurred Lines.”

The late soul singer’s children, who are suing for plagiarism on behalf of their father’s estate, won Friday’s round of a court battle when a US federal judge denied a motion by Williams and Thicke to throw out the case.

On Thursday, Williams and Thicke had sought a motion by the judge that “Blurred Lines” did not infringe on copyrights to Marvin Gaye’s song.

It will now be up to a jury to decide whether parts of “Blurred Lines” were wrongly copied from Gaye’s music in a celebrity trial in Los Angeles scheduled to start on February 10.

The ruling was made by US District Judge John A. Kronstadt after hearing views by experts for Williams and Thicke, and by Gaye’s children Nona, Frankie and Marvin Gaye lll, over “Blurred Lines” and Gaye’s “Got to Give it Up.” According to the federal judge, there was a good argument about whether signature phrases, hooks, bass lines, keyboard chords and vocal melodies in the two songs were the same.

Kronstadt said the jury would compare the sheet music, rather than listen to it directly.

Friday’s ruling came after a court battle that has lasted over a year.

Howard King, attorney for Williams and Thicke, was quoted as saying that the judge’s decision was not a surprise, and he was confident the singer/songwriters would win at the upcoming trial.

“Since the compositions at issue are completely different, we remain confident of prevailing at trial,” the attorney said.

Meanwhile, it appears that Thicke may remain in the thick of things for a while, with the Gaye family also claiming that the Motown legend’s “After the Dance” was improperly used for Thicke’s smash hit “Love After War.” Judge Kronstadt ruled a trial would also be needed to decide that issue.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper PAHO/WHO mobilize Ebola preparedness teams in the Caribbean

November 7–13, 2014

aboratory-test-of-Ebola-virus-740BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Tuesday November 4, 2014, CMC – The Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization (PAHO/ WHO) say they are mobilizing teams of experts in outbreak alert and response to help member states in Latin America and the Caribbean ensure they are prepared for any potential introduction of Ebola virus disease (EVD).

PAHO/WHO missions will visit member countries over the next two months to assess countries’ levels of preparedness to detect, treat and control the spread of any potential imported case of Ebola.

A PAHO/WHO statement said the missions, in coordination with national health authorities, will assess gaps and make recommendations for addressing them, and PAHO/WHO will provide follow-up technical cooperation based on individual countries’ needs.

In addition, PAHO/WHO experts and experts from the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) will be

deployed if an imported case of Ebola is identified in any member country, to assist national health authorities in implementing their EVD response plans.

No cases of Ebola have been reported in Latin America or the Caribbean to date.

However, “the risk of an imported case in the region is real,” said Dr. Marcos Espinal, Director of PAHO/WHO’s Department of Communicable Diseases and Health Analysis.

“It is important that our countries’ health systems be prepared to respond quickly to cases of Ebola and make sure it does not spread.”

The PAHO/WHO said that to be prepared

for a potential case of Ebola, countries need to have the ability to detect a patient with symptoms.

They said healthcare workers must be familiar with screening criteria, including symptoms and history of travel/exposure, and know when to isolate patients.

“They also need to know how to protect themselves from exposure to the virus in the course of their work. Health officials need to know how to prepare and send medical specimens for testing and which laboratories are able to diagnose Ebola.

Ministry officials must know how and when to carry out contact tracing.”

The two UN agencies say they have working closely with member countries to ensure they have the necessary policies, procedures and human resource capacity in place to manage any introduction of Ebola.

PAHO/WHO’s work in this area has included a series of virtual and face-to-face training sessions on preparedness, risk communication and logistics, as well as the dissemination of norms and guidelines on infection control, use of personal protec-

tive equipment (PPE), collection and management of samples with highly pathogenic agents, disease surveillance, and laboratory procedures.

The new PAHO/WHO preparedness missions will examine and make recommendations in several key areas with the goal of ensuring that country capacities are in line with recommended standards under the International Health Regulations (IHR).

These include coordination mechanisms for key institutions involved detecting and responding to potential Ebola cases; epidemiological investigation, surveillance and laboratory capacity, particularly to ensure rapid identification of suspected cases, diagnostic confirmation, and contact tracing.

PAHO Director Dr. Carissa F. Etienne also announced last week that she had appointed Canadian Dr. Ronald St. John as Ebola Incident Manager.

Dr. St. John has extensive expertise in preparedness and response in the health sector, with experience in managing public health crises.

Manhunt underway in Jamaica for gunman who killed mother and two children KINGSTON, Jamaica, Tuesday November 4, 2014, CMC

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amaica police were searching for an unknown gunman who shot and killed a woman and her two sons on Monday.

Police have not released the names of those killed, but the incident occurred at May pen in Clarendon.

Residents said they heard the loud explosions and the woman screaming that she had been shot. A man was later seen running away from the premises.

In September, law enforcement authorities said that there had been an 18 per cent reduction in murders for the period January 1 to September 24.

A total of 714 murders were reported, compared to 871 for the same period last year.

CEO: Kevin Mohabir Chief Editor: Rhoda Mohabir Head Of Distribution: Shevin Mohabir Director/Sales Manager: Kevin Mohabir Distribution: William Despot, Sham Mohabir, & Shevin Mohabir Sports Editor: Darshan Chikery Layout & Design: Michelle Disclaimer: Caribbean Star Newspaper Inc. & Advertisers are not responsible for typographical errors on the published Ads. We accept articles, artwork, and photography which are in accordance with our Mission. We reserve the right to accept, reject, or edit any material we receive but do our best to honor the integrity of the author/artist. We do not endorse any particular writer or advertiser. We simply offer our readers information on various subject matters. It is expected that all material is submitted in “Good Faith” with no intent to mislead or harm others.

It is the readers responsibility to make intuitive decisions that are right for themselves.

November 7–13, 2014 37 Caribbean Star Newspaper Ship with suspected Ebola cases denies seeking permission to dock in St Vincent KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, Sunday November 2, 2014, CMC he owners of a ship that according to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, sought permission to dock in St. Vincent with two crewmembers suspected of having Ebola on board, have denied that the vessel was scheduled to or asked to dock in the country.

In a statement, MOL Tankship Management (Europe) Ltd., also said the two crewmembers had “symptoms of a chest infection” and had not visited any country where Ebola was present.

They said the vessel, a chemical tanker, Noble Spirit, was refused entry into Jamaica and Barbados.

“The facts are that the two Filipino crew members joined the Noble Spirit in the

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United States on September 30th after flying directly from the Philippines. Neither of them had ever visited Ebola infected countries and neither has the vessel ever called at ports in Ebola infected countries,” the statement said.

Cases of Ebola have been reported in Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Spain, and the United States.

Two imported cases, including one death, and two locally acquired cases in healthcare workers have been reported in the United States. Thomas Eric Duncan, who was diagnosed in Dallas, Texas on Sept. 30, died of Ebola.

The statement said that on October 9, while the Noble Spirit was en route in ballast from Houston to Equatorial Guinea, the Filipino crewmembers “complained of

symptoms of a chest infection” and were treated onboard under advice from Radio Medical Assistance Rome.

“CIRM Roma did, however, recommend that they be landed at a convenient port for chest examination and tests. The authorities in Kingston, Jamaica and Barbados both refused to allow the vessel to enter or the crew to disembark.

“Noble Spirit subsequently sailed directly to Equatorial Guinea as the two crew members fully recovered after a few days treatment from what was a minor chest infection, while the rest of the crew are all in a healthy condition,” the statement said.

Gonsalves told Parliament on October 24, that around 7:30 p.m. on October 14, he received a call from Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security

Godfred Pompey saying that the Noble Spirit, was off the coast of Jamaica and but was denied entry there because two Filipinos, who boarded at Houston, Texas on October 10, had high fever and vomiting – two of the symptoms of deadly Ebola virus.

Gonsalves said the tanker was scheduled to call at SVG at 11 p.m. that day.

Gonsalves, who is also Minister of National Security, said he instructed the Coastguard, the Signal Station and all the relevant agencies that the vessel would not be permitted to enter the waters of SVG. “It turns out that when it came down from St. Lucia, we allowed it innocent passage, it changed its course and went to Barbados, and was not allowed to land in Barbados,” he said.

Canada is latest country to ban entry from Ebola hot spots

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ed ebola text on africa outline against grey brick wallOTTAWA, Canada, Monday November 3, 2014 – Canada is the latest country to suspend the processing of visa applications from foreign nationals who have visited West African nations with large outbreaks of the deadly Ebola virus.

According to Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander: “Our number one priority is to protect Canadians.

We continue to work with domestic and international partners to aid efforts to respond to the outbreak in West Africa, while strengthening our domestic preparedness here at home.”

In a press release issued Friday, officials said that applications will be returned to people from Ebola hot spots who have already applied for visas.

Canadians currently in West Africa will not be affected by the changes, the press release added. Health care workers in the affected West African countries will be allowed to return to Canada.

Earlier last week, Australia’s decision to suspend entry visas for people from Ebola-affected countries drew heavy flak, with Uganda accusing Western countries of “creating mass panic.”

Several tourism dependant Caribbean countries, with limited resources to deal with a possible Ebola outbreak, have also temporarily banned entry from West African Ebola hot spots.

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) statement issued Friday and current up to October 29, a total of 4,951 people have died from Ebola and there have been 13,567 cases in eight countries since the outbreak began.

Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone remain the worst affected countries, with 13,540 cases and 4,941 deaths attributed to the virus. A total of 523 healthcare workers are known to be infected and 269 have died.

The number of probable and suspected cases are from six affected countries – Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Spain and the United States – and the two previously affected countries of Senegal and

Nigeria, WHO said.

WHO also noted that there is a separate and unrelated Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo where there have been 66 cases and 49 deaths as of

October 28.

Meanwhile, Dr David Nabarro, UN system coordinator on Ebola, said it is not necessary to quarantine people merely because they come from Guinea, Liberia or Sierra Leone.

“People do not need to be quarantined unless they have come into contact with people who have Ebola or unless they have symptoms,” Dr Nabarro said on Friday.

The UN expert expressed cautious optimism about the apparent slowing of the rate of infection in Liberia, but cautioned that authorities “do not always have timely production of full data,” and warned that

“reduction in the rate of increase does not mean that the outbreak is under control.”

In other developments, US Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power has praised Cuba for sending large numbers of health care workers to fight Ebola in West Africa.

“I have to commend Cuba for sending 265 medical professionals … and they are sending another 200 on top of that 265,” the ambassador said at a press conference on Friday.

Power noted that only a few countries have truly committed to fighting Ebola.

“A few countries have done a lot, and a much larger number of countries have done very little,” the ambassador said.

Confucius says a good idea can be bad Yep, if wishes had wings horses will fly. And if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.

Get some insurance just in case

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

CRICKET & Sports

Brett Gardner had muscle surgery

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Alex Rodriguez was reinstated at the end of the 2014 season after serving a suspension.

A-Rod confessed in DEA meeting

ankees outfielder Brett Gardner had surgery to repair a core muscle near his ribs, the team announced Wednesday.

The procedure on his right rectus abdominis muscle took place Oct. 16 and has a recovery period of four weeks, meaning Gardner should be fine for his regular offseason program by next week.

Gardner, 31, signed a four-year, $52 million extension before last season. He was arguably the Yankees’ best position player in 2014, hitting .256 with 17 homers and 58 RBIs while stealing 21 bases.

“I think that here in the next week or two, I’ll be pretty darn close to 100 percent and just be able to go through my normal offseason routine,” Gardner

said on Sirius XM/MLB Network Radio.

“That’s one of the reasons we just went ahead and got it done after the season.

“Obviously without making the playoffs, we got a much longer offseason than we would have liked, but it also gives me a little extra time on the front end to kind of get this thing taken care of and not have it be an issue next year.”

With Alex Rodriguez in the news again, Gardner said the Yankees will welcome A-Rod back to help them try to win.

“If he is a guy who is going to help us do that, we obviously welcome him,” Gardner said. “I know that things will be a little different with the fans, especially at the start, but hopefully as the season goes on it will be business as usual.”

Alex Rodriguez admitted to the use of performance-enhancing drugs during a meeting with the Drug Enforcement Administration in January, DEA documents show.

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lawyer for former University of Miami pitching coach Lazaro “Laser” Collazo, who is charged with conspiracy to distribute PEDs, told The Associated Press that Rodriguez confessed to steroid use, citing DEA documents provided by the government to defense attorneys.

The Herald reported that the recently reinstated New slugger met with DEA agents on Jan. 29 at the agency’s South Florida field office. Given immunity from prosecution, Rodriguez told investigators he had used banned substances between late 2010 and October 2012 -- including testosterone cream, testosterone gummies and HGH -- supplied by Anthony Bosch, who owned the Biogenesis of America clinic in Coral Gables.

According to the report, one such injection took place in the men’s room of a Miami nightclub.

“Rodriguez injected the HGH into his stomach,” the DEA report stated, according to the newspaper. “Rodriguez said Bosch told him the HGH would help with sleep, weight, hair growth, eyesight and muscle recovery.”

According to the report, Rodriguez was trained in tricks to beat a urine test.

“Bosch advised him to only use midstream urine for MLB drug testing,” the DEA report stated, according to the newspaper. “Bosch told Rodriguez not to use the beginning or the end urine stream.”

Bosch has pleaded guilty in the case and is cooperating with the prosecution.

Rodriguez has publicly denied any use of banned substances during his time with the Yankees, which began in 2004.

In 2009, the Yankees third baseman admitted to using PEDs while with the Texas Rangers in 2001.

Major League Baseball commissioner Bud Selig suspended Rodriguez for 211 games in August 2013 for violations of the sport’s drug agreement and labor contract. The penalty was cut to the 2014 season in January by arbitrator Fredric Horowitz.

Rodriguez proclaimed his innocence and sued in federal court then withdrew the suit and accepted the penalty.

The Herald reported Bosch told the DEA that A-Rod agreed to pay for steroids for 20 Biogenesis customers after the clinic closed to keep Bosch from talking about his involvement.

That could prompt MLB to investigate whether Rodriguez could be suspended again under the sport’s drug agreement for violations related to the sale and distribution of PEDs, which are separate from the prohibitions on personal use.

Asked about Rodriguez’s documented admission, his lawyer, Joe Tacopina, said in a text message to ESPNNewYork.com: “Grand jury secrecy laws ... which appears to have been violated ... prevents me from answering one way or the other.”

Brett Gardner, who hit 17 homers with 58 RBIs and 21 steals last season, had surgery on Oct. 16 but should begin his offseason training program next week.

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WICB directors reject sacking rumors

hree WICB directors have told ESPNcricinfo that, contrary to speculative reports in the Caribbean media, no decision has been taken to sack the three international captains: Denesh Ramdin (Test), Dwayne Bravo (ODI) and Darren Sammy (Twenty20).

On Tuesday some of the directors had a meeting over teleconference, including WICB president Dave Cameron, but the WICB did not issue any release.

According to Azim Bassarath, who did not participate in the conference call, no one had informed him about the trio being removed. He said the task force set up by the three warring parties players, WICB and WIPA - would report back with steps to resolve the situation.

According to him, the next board of directors meeting was scheduled for De-

cember 13 in Jamaica.

Another director, who briefly attended the conference call, denied any decision had been taken. “We have not selected the squad yet [for South Africa] so I don’t know where that news is coming from. We had a teleconference meeting, I did not stay for the full duration of the meeting. I am not told yet [of anything decision] because I would have the benefit of [what happened] at the meeting. I am told there is another meeting this Thursday and possibly the matter will come up there.

I also heard Clive Lloyd will join that meeting. But I am yet to hear about the Thursday meeting officially.”

Meanwhile, a third director said he could not say “whether that is true or not true” but declined to make any further comments.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

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November 7–13, 2014

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WICB standoff with players ends

ensions between the WICB and the West Indies players have eased, and a way forward found, following meetings over the weekend, Caribbean newspapers have reported.

That could mean West Indies’ scheduled tour to South Africa in December will go ahead without hiccups.

According to the reports, the WICB and the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) will now renegotiate the players’ contracts, with the players now having a say in payment matters, and WIPA and its chief Wavell Hinds will continue to represent the players’ interests. Also, it was reported, a three-man task force has been created to deal with the BCCI’s demands off the WICB. The committee reportedly comprises former West Indies cricketer and Barbados politician Wes Hall, Barbados chief justice and former prime minister David Simmons, and lawyer and Trinidad & Tobago politician Kenneth Lalla, and will go to work immediately given the

BCCI’s 15-day deadline for the WICB to respond to its claim of US$41.97m.

The meeting was said to be attended by WICB president Dave Cameron, players Dwayne Bravo and Denesh Ramdin and their legal representative Ralph Thorne, as well as St Vincent and the Grenadines prime minister Ralph Gonsalves and Grenada prime minister Keith Mitchell.

Reports also said the players were assured at the meeting that they would not be “victimised” for cutting their tour to India short.

West Indies had withdrawn from their tour to India in October with one ODI, one Twenty20 and three Tests pending, due to issues the players had with the payment structures under the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the WICB and WIPA earlier in the year. During the tour to India ODI captain Bravo had written letters on the matter, on behalf of the players, to WIPA chief Hinds and the WICB, saying the players’ trust

Has the latest crisis in West Indies cricket eased? had been breached since they were not privy to the changes being brought in. Several exchanges among the three par-

ties had ensued, and the players finally withdrew from the tour after the Dharamsala ODI since no middle ground was found.

Subsequently, the BCCI had suspended bilateral tours to the West Indies and demanded financial compensation.

The ICC should act as a caretaker for the WICB Unless drastic governance measures are taken, the WICB will not recover from the damage caused by the cancelled tour of India

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ust as two prime ministers were meeting with the main characters in Portof-Spain on Friday in an effort to find a settlement of yet another of the several recent challenges that have destabilized West Indies cricket, an email popped up in the inbox of West Indies board president Dave Cameron.

It was not unexpected, but it as chilling all the same. It was from Sanjay Patel, secretary of BCCI, confirming earlier notice that the Indian board would seek compensation for the losses it suffered from the West Indies team’s premature pullout of the tour of India after the fourth ODI on October 17.

Patel itemized “in plain economic terms” the areas accounting for an overall claim of US$47.2 million; among them were broadcasting rights fees, title and team sponsorship and ticket sales. He gave the WICB 15 days to “formally inform the BCCI, in writing, of the steps it intends to take” to meet the claim, otherwise it would take legal action in India.

As he indicated in his previous statements, Patel left no doubt over where the BCCI placed the responsibility for the termination. It was on the WICB and, more specifically, president Cameron.

He noted that it was only through his own approach to the players that the

first ODI went ahead. The intervention of “high-ranking BCCI officials” ensured the next three matches were played. “Finally, after the fourth ODI ar Dharamshala on October 17, you pulled out your team and communicated your decision to cancel the remainder of the tour,” he declared.

The terminology is pertinent. It wasn’t that the players withdrew but that Cameron, fiddling on the other side of the globe while the flames were engulfing the tour, pulled them out.

“The adverse financial ramifications and the negative impact of your action to unilaterally cancel the remainder of the tour was well within your understanding, yet you still went ahead and cancelled the tour in complete disregard of your legal commitments,” Patel added for good measure.

It was an issue simultaneously occupying the attention of Ralph Gonsalves, prime minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Keith Mitchell, prime minister of Grenada, Cameron, Dwayne Bravo, West Indies’ ODI captain and spokesman for the players in India, and Ralph Thorne, the players’ lawyer.

Wavell Hinds, president the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) whose signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding/ Collective Bargaining Agreement (MoU/

The BCCI holds the West Indies board responsible for the pullout, not the players CBA) with the board was vehemently rejected by Bravo and his men, was said to have been involved through Skype.

There were reliable reports yesterday that agreement was reached that the new MoM/CBA would be renegotiated. But a time frame was not given. In the interim, all the players will be available for selection for the December 10-January 28 tour of South Africa and the February 14-March 26 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

In addition, Sir David Simmons, former Chief Justice and Attorney General of Barbados, will head the task force, established at the WICB emergency directors’ meeting in Barbados as far back as

October 14, to examine all aspects of the fiasco in India. It will include Rev Sir Wes Hall, the iconic fast bowler of the 1960s, himself a former WICB president.

In the circumstances, as encouraging as it was, such decisions seemed immaterial.

For an organization warned by the chartered accountants KPMG in its 201213 financial statement that its net loss of US$5.8 million for the previous year, along with shareholders’ deficiencies of $5.6million, “raise substantial doubt that the company will be able to continue as a going concern”, it was clear that US$47.2 would be way beyond the WICB’s ability to pay.

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November 7–13, 2014

Caribbean Star Newspaper Lions Clubs is The World's Largest Service Club Organization

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Lions are everywhere. We're men and women who are active in community projects in over 200 countries and geographic areas.

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Local Community Projects Lions are active. Our motto is "We Serve." Lions are part of a global service network, doing whatever is necessary to help our local communities.

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Lions serve youth. Our community projects often support local children and schools through scholarships, recreation and mentoring. Internationally, we offer many programs, including the Peace Poster Contest, Youth Camps and Exchange and Lions Quest. And our Leo Program provides personal development through youth volunteer opportunities. There are approximately 144,000 Leos and 5,700 Leo clubs in more than 140 countries worldwide.

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Romeo Hitlall 917-749-7700

Caribbean Star Newspaper Ramprakash appointed England’s batting coach

November 7–13, 2014

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ark Ramprakash has been appointed as England’s new batting coach. He will take up the role immediately, joining England on a oneday tour of Sri Lanka later this month, and will fulfil the role across all formats.

The ECB’s confirmation of Ramprakash’s elevation had been widely predicted from the moment that Graham Thorpe indicated his reluctance to tour for long periods. Thorpe will remain England’s lead batting coach, based at the national performance centre at Loughborough.

England slipped Ramprakash into the batting coaching role on a part-time basis with a marked lack of fanfare during series’ against Sri Lanka and India this summer. The hierarchy took a long look at his methodology and finally they have seen enough to award him the role as they concentrate on restoring a strong team culture following the fallout from an Ashes whitewash and the ostracising of Kevin Pietersen.

Ramprakash, 45, was always technically absorbed as a player, and his knowledge should hold him in good stead as a batting coach. But his intensity was sometimes to his own detriment and, alongside an innate charm and politeness, when he was frustrated at not achieving his own exacting standards he could cut an intense and aggravated figure.

It would have been remiss of England’s senior coaches if they had not considered how this might translate into his approach as a coach, especially considering his lack of experience in such a role at county level. He did act as Middlesex’s batting coach for a relatively short period, although for a time it seemed as if he might move into TV as he made an excellent analyst during ITV4’s coverage of IPL. Paul Downton, the managing director of England cricket, was just one of many

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, (L), with his wife, holds up his ink–marked finger after casting his vote in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections in Mumbai on October 15, 2014

Tendulkar hits out at ‘ringmaster’ Chappell

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Mark Ramprakash takes guard with an iPad players who occasionally had a close-up view of a brooding Ramprakash when they shared a dressing room at Middlesex, but he has clearly concluded that, in common with many as they reach middle age, his approach is now more equable and communal. That he will expect discipline and desire from his charges can be taken for granted.

“During his time with both England Lions and the senior teams, Mark has proved a valuable addition to the coaching group,” Downton said. “He has formed excellent relationships with players and a strong partnership with Peter Moores and the management team and I have no doubt he will continue to have a positive impact.”

achin Tendulkar has launched a scathing criticism of Greg Chappell’s conduct as India’s cricket coach, saying the former Australian great tried to disrupt the team by having senior players thrown out.

In his autobiography “Playing It My Way” which is to be released on Thursday, Tendulkar describes Chappell as a “ringmaster who imposed his ideas on the players without showing any signs of being concerned about whether they felt comfortable or not”.

During Chappell’s controversial tenure as coach from 2005 to 2007, Sourav Ganguly was sacked as captain before the coach was himself shown the door after India’s shock first-round exit from the 2007 World Cup. In extracts from the book released by the Press Trust of India on Monday, Tendulkar says Chappell offered him the captaincy a few months before the showpiece tournament in the Caribbean to replace the incumbent Rahul Dravid.

“Just months before the (2007) World Cup, Chappell had come to see me at home and, to my dismay, suggested that I should take over the captaincy from Rahul Dravid,” Tendulkar writes.

“Anjali (Tendulkar’s wife), who was sitting with me was equally shocked to hear him say that ‘together, we could control Indian cricket for years’, and that he would help me in taking over the reins of the side.

“I was surprised to hear the coach not showing the slightest amount of respect for the captain, with cricket’s biggest tournament just months away. He stayed for a couple of hours, trying to convince me, before finally leaving.”

Tendulkar says that he then suggested to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that Chappell should not be sent with the team to the World Cup, but it was turned down.

“I don’t think I would be far off the mark if I said that most of us felt that Indian cricket was going nowhere under Chappell,” he wrote.

Tendulkar said several senior players were relieved to see Chappell go, “which was hardly surprising because, for reasons hard to comprehend, he had not treated them fairly”.

Tendulkar, who retired last year as the world’s leading run-getter in both Test and one-day cricket, said that after getting Ganguly sacked as captain in 2005, Chappell wanted other senior players also to go.

“Chappell seemed intent on dropping all the older players and in the process damaged the harmony of the side,” the master batsman wrote.

“I later found out that Greg had spoken to the BCCI about the need to remove the senior players, no doubt hoping to refresh the team.”

Pakistan’s spinners humiliate Australia again Pakistan 570 for 6 dec (Younis 213, Azhar 109, Misbah 101) and 293 for 3 dec (Misbah 101*, Azhar 100*) beat Australia 261 (Marsh 87) and 238 for 5 (Smith 97, Warner 58, Zulfiqar Babar 5-120) by 356 runs

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wenty years of Pakistan defeats at Australian hands were erased in little more than 20 minutes. The last five wickets belonging to Michael Clarke’s befuddled team tumbled for eight runs in 46 balls after lunch, rather summing up the gulf between the two sides in a series Australia had expected to win.

Instead it was Misbah-ulHaq’s team that was triumphant, not just beating Australia but to-

tally obliterating them. The Abu Dhabi result was Pakistan’s biggest ever victory margin by runs.

In terms of average differential (batting average minus bowling average) this was Australia’s worst series of all time. Australia have the Ashes, but that’s all.

The final spoils were rightly shared by Zulfiqar Babar and Yasir Shah, the little-known spin duo which did not merely cover for Saeed Ajmal’s absence but took advantage of it. Australia spent most of the preceding six months preparing for mystery offspin and doosras, even hiring Muttiah Muralitharan. Instead they were flummoxed by classical left-arm orthodox and legspin.

Other garlands were rightfully

saved for Younis Khan, the prolific and cultured runmaker who built the wall Australia’s bowlers were never anywhere near tearing down. Then there was the captain Misbah, who showed total composure throughout the series before giving free rein to his skills with the equal-fastest Test century of all time.

Above all else, Australia’s display demonstrated how they will be illegitimate contenders for the title of best team in the world until they can find a way to thrive on the slow, low and turning pitches set-up to blunt their speedy brand of the game in Asia and elsewhere. Clarke in particular must wear a share of blame for the result, as he failed completely to set a batting

example for less experienced team-mates.

For most of the morning Steven Smith and Mitchell Marsh at least showed some evidence of learning how to cope with these climes, too late to change the series but perhaps an attempt to salvage some vestige of self-respect.

Smith used his feet smartly and also defended stoutly in a fine display, but he lost the assistance of Marsh when the allrounder glanced Mohammad Hafeez straight to leg slip.

Marsh had played doggedly and well, but he will regret not either leaving or hitting out harder at a delivery that was short and down the leg side.

That ended a stand of 107 over more than two hours, and

brought the pained Brad Haddin to the middle, still favoring his right shoulder after jarring and bruising it heavily on the first day of the Test. Haddin winced repeatedly when playing the ball but showed great determination in doing so, and Smith cuffed a pair of boundaries in the final over of the morning to reach the cusp of a fighting century.

But two balls into the afternoon he became yet another batsman to play presumptuously for spin where none existed, pinned in front by a Yasir delivery that skidded on. Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon melted away within minutes, allowing Pakistan to celebrate. It’s been a while.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

No decision on Ramdin T&T captaincy

rinidad & Tobago Cricket Board president Azim Bassarath has denied that Denesh Ramdin has been removed as captain of Trinidad & Tobago Red Force for this year’s regional competitions. On Tuesday, Ramdin, recently elevated as West Indies’ Test captain, had claimed that the TTCB was trying to”victimize” him for abandoning the India tour last month. However, Bassarth countered that, saying the TTCB executive had not yet taken any decision on Ramdin, who continued to remain captain.

“We have not appointed any new captain,” Bassarath told ESPNcricinfo. “There is a recommendation from the selectors that we appoint Rayad Emrit as captain of the team from next week. The executive of the board has yet to sit and decide whether we accept or reject the recommendation. Ramdin is still the captain of Trinidad & Tobago cricket team.”

The TTCB executive board is scheduled to meet this weekend to take a final decision, Bassarath said. “When the selectors met to pick the team they realised the Denesh would have been in India playing a complete tour.

Immediately after that he would go to the South Africa tour. And after that he would go directly to

Denesh Ramdin is currently still Trinidad & Tobago captain, according to the TTCB the World Cup. So Denesh was pulled up for quitting the Innot going to be available to play dia tour after the players failed for T&T for the 2014-15 season. to break the deadlock with the Hence the selectors made a rec- WICB and West Indies Players ommendation [to think about Association (WIPA) over the appointing another captain].”

Memorandum of Understanding Emrit remained a favourite, and combined business agreeBassarath said, only because he ment signed by the latter two in had lead T&T successfully last September. season. “You must remember in “I am axed as captain and they the 2014 season, Emrit did lead announced Rayad Emrit will be the team with distinction, where captain going forward for Trinwe lost the regional four-day idad & Tobago,” Ramdin told tournament by one point.” the Trinidad Express on Monday Bassarath, who is one of the after attending a meeting with WICB directors, insisted that the TTCB at the National Cricket it was not correct on Ramdin’s Centre in Balmain, Couva, Trinipart to allege that he was being dad. «I think it is more victimiza-

tion because they were asking me questions about India and my lawyer said not to talk about it so I think they were trying to get more information on that aspect.”

However, Bassarath rejected that claim and also added that whatever decision TTCB would take would have no bearing on the on-going talks between players, WIPA and WICB. “That has absolutely nothing to do with this.”

Patrick Rampersad, the T&T third vice-president, was equally categorical about Ramdin’s public pronouncement being incorrect. Rampersad told ESPNcricinfo he was present at Monday’s meeting, which was attended by the top brass of TTCB: Bassarath, Suraj Ragoonath (chief executive), former West Indies player Gus Logie (head coach), along with the treasurer and secretary of the board.

The meeting, Rampersad said, was scheduled to also include Darren Bravo, who did not turn up. “We had arranged the meeting with Mr Ramdin and Mr Darren Bravo,” he said. “Mr Bravo did not show up. Based on what has happened over the last few weeks we wanted to talk to them about their commitment to T&T cricket.”

Rampersad said about a month ago the national selection panel recommended Emrit as a captain for the T&T team. “That was accepted by the executive.

Ramdin is the regular captain of the four-day team. Because he was on West Indies duty we had to appoint somebody in the interim. That is done every year.

When then the regular captain comes back and is eligible to play he takes over.”

According to Rampersad, Bassarath asked Ramdin how he would respond if he was told that the executive had received a recommendation from the selectors that they prefer to continue with the same captain appointed from the beginning of the season regardless of Ramdin’s availability.

“The president also pointed out that this can be done only after the executive ratifies such a recommendation,” Rampersad said.

“But he took that to mean that he was fired.”

Rampersad also refuted Ramdin’s claim that the TTCB executive tried to “ask him questions” over the pull-out from the Indian tour. “That was totally untrue. One question was asked, ‘What transpired in India?’ He said he could not speak about it because that was the advice from the lawyer. That was the end of the matter.”

Rayudu century puts India 2-0 up Got graffiti on your India 275 for 4 (Rayudu 121*, Dhawan 79) beat Sri Lanka 274 wall and automobiles for 8 (Mathews 92*, Sangakkara 61,

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Akshar 2-39) by six wickets

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mbati Rayudu hit a chanceless maiden ODI ton, as India ran down Sri Lanka’s 275 for 8 with six wickets in hand and 33 balls to spare. Rayudu and Shikhar Dhawan put on 122 runs for the second wicket to set up the chase, and having come to bat in the seventh over, Rayudu was at the crease to hit the winning runs and finish on 121 off 118 balls.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers were short on menace, but it had been the batsmen who erred first in the game. Early wickets in their innings made for a measured recovery, and though Angelo Mathews’ unbeaten 92 pushed the score towards credibility, he lacked support from the middle order, as the team finished at least 30 runs light on a flat Motera surface, and with dew set to form later in the evening.

Rayudu arrived just as the Sri Lanka seamers appeared to be hitting a rhythm,

but like they had done in the previous ODI, the India batsmen sought to lay low until the seam grew soft and the changes were rung in. Dhawan was handed had a life in the eighth over, when he was on 10. Lahiru Gamage seamed a length ball away and collected his outside edge, but the sound and the clear deviation escaped the umpire’s notice, to Sri Lanka’s disbelief.

Once the new-ball bowlers had finished their opening spells, the batsmen eased out of their vigil and gradually tightened their grip on the chase. The first acceleration came just as the asking rate clicked over six per over. Rayudu strode down the track to launch Suraj Randiv over long on in the 17th over, establishing what would become one of the major themes of his hundred: the effective use of his feet against the spinners.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

November 7–13, 2014

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November 7–13, 2014

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November 7–13, 2014

In Loving Memory... A Tribute

November 7–13, 2014

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In Loving Memory Of

Vera Asha Beharry

Daphne Saul-Semple

Sunrise: January 4, 1960 Sunset: October 31, 2014 1Cor 2:9

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

She lived, but now she lives

Sunrise: Sunset:

Loving devoted Mother... until we meet again!

Sponsered by Elcock Funeral Home

Caribbean Star Newspaper

September 26, 1931 October 31, 2014

Caribbean Star Newspaper