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Chronicle STHE NATION'S NEWSPAPER

WEEKENDING

SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

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Hundreds of Guyanese joined their West Indian counterparts and converged on the Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn New York as the annual West Indian Day Parade kicked-off around midday on Labour Day in the United States of America. Several officials of the state of New York including Mayor Bill De Blasio joined in the festivities as the crowds built -up to a sizable number during the celebrations (Alva Solomon photo)

Prince

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

looks

much

Obama

- Guyanese boy bears striking resemblance to U.S. President, and hopes to meet him by Francis Quamina Farrier Twelve-year-old Kani McLean is reaching for the stars, but also hoping to pass through the White House, the official residence of the President of the United States of America, in Washington, DC., while on his way to academic excellence. There is a firm reason why this young Guyanese wants to visit the White House. His desire is to meet, even briefly, with President Barack Obama. The reason being, that during the past seven years or so of his very young life, Kani McLean has been referred to as, "Barack", "Little Obama" or simply "Obama". The pre-teen has such an extremely striking resemblance to the President of the United States of America that he is already a bit of a celebrity, being stopped may times by various individuals and admired. But before we get any further into Kani McLean's story, I need to tell you that although Kani is "Guyanese to de bone", he was not bom in Guyana. Surprised, eh? Here's Kani's story from the very beginning. Just over twelve years ago, while on a flight from Guyana to Jamaica, still within the confines of his mother's womb, Kani decided to make an unannounced and very unexpected arrival into this world while the plane was still in Trinidad. That was a very big surprise for his mother, Kathryn Eytle-McLean, who was not expecting his arrival for some weeks.

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It was also a big surprise for close relatives and friends, who were of the belief, that the little fellow still had another two months or so, within the comfort of his mother's womb. But there he was, born in Trinidad, but nonetheless, Guyanese from head to toe. He was a premature bundle of joy who was not really keen to be a Trinidadian citizen! Bom over there in the Land of Calypso and oil, Kani spent most of his very early years here in Guyana, the Land of his parents and grandparents. Although accidentally Trinidadian by birth, he is Guyanese by parents and by choice. His father is veterinarian Dr. Nicholas McLean, the son of Major General (refd) Norman McLean. His mother, Kathryn Eytle-McLean, is the daughter of the well-known veteran Travel Agent, Gem Eytle. Kani McLean also has roots deep in the soil of the Pomeroon District, in Region Number Two of Guyana. From a very early age, Kani became a member of the Scout Movement here in Guyana, and continues to be involved in scouting over in Atlanta, Georgia, in America, where he is at present, continuing his studies. He is a past student of the New Guyana School in Georgetown. Wherever he goes in the United States, he is referred to as "Barack", "Obama" or "Little Obama". Many times as he is travelling through an airport, he will be pulled aside by some official who would remark about his very close resemblance to

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Kani McLean the President. So a few weeks ago, Kani decided to write to President Barack Obama, seeking a meeting with him at the White House, and while no firm response has been received as yet, Kani and all those who are in his corner, are very hopeful that the President of the United States will host the twelve-year-old Guyanese boy, who looks so much like him, and who is reaching for the stars by studying hard to become a very productive member of society. Kani McLean has already met with high ranking American Officials while still here in his native Guyana. Two years ago, he was a special guest of the American Ambassador to Guyana, Brent Hardt, at the Official residence, for the United States Independence Anniversary Celebrations. At that reception, he was also greatly admired by many other guests, for his close resemblance to President Obama. As a scout, Kani is living the motto of "Always be Prepared", and who knows, part of that preparation could be to play the role of a young Barack Obama in a movie, should Hollywood come calling. We as his fellow Guyanese must be in the comer of Kani Mclean, hoping that his dreams do come true, in the very same way in which the dreams of young Barack Obama came true, after he wrote in his book, "The Audacity of Hope." Also as a scout from Guyana, Kani McLean can boast to his fellow scouts in the United States, that scouting came to Guyana in 1909, one year before scouting was established in the United States of America in 1910. Guyana can benefit in some ways, should the dreams - The Audacity of Hope - in little Kani McLean, do become reality.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

r: The Peter Haynes Column

TARGETING

LOW INCOME

COMMUNITIES It is truly disgusting to note the constancy with which low income neighborhoods arc being flooded with fast-food outlets — as opposed to middle and upper N.

income neighborhoods which are not experiencing any such unhealthy and one-dimensional developments. At this time, we have two or three Chinese restaurants in each block, but have you ever tried counting them on Durban or Sheriff Streets? It is no accident that these fast food franchises are not targeting the upper or middle income areas. Their presence in lower income areas is deliberate. Indeed, studies over the years in North America have shown that fast food enterprises target these areas because they realize quick, easy and large profits. In lower income areas liquor stores, delis and lotto machines - which have been the underside of glitz - are increasing in number with a similarly disgusting regularity. Moreover, it would be true to say that these types of businesses often also present opportunities for illicit practices, such as drugs. The lower income people, in their attempt to suppress their misery usually drown their woes in alcohol hence the liquor stores at every corner. And of course, almost all the liquor stores have lottery machines. Unfortunately, members of the populace in these areas tend to jump for joy when they see these shops opening up in their districts - the inhabitants see these businesses as conveniences when they should be preferably asking: "Why in our areas and not in the areas where the middle and upper income families reside?" Other questions that ought to be asked include: "Who are the owners of these franchises? How many persons from the neighborhood will get employment in these locales? What role or contribution do these franchise owners make to schools or community centers in the area?" Even basic attempts to answer such questions would not only put the franchise owners on notice that they are dealing with enlightened citizens but also, more importantly, begin to lead the business community to act with greater civic and moral concern. In addition to questioning the location of these fast food establishments, it is of even greater significance to note that the meals which fast food operators prepare for sale in the lower income areas are not really beneficial to the health of the purchasers. Not only are the cheapest ingredients used, but these meals also depend largely on the use of items which spike the taste buds but are unhealthy - such as salt, sugar and fats - and these items are the root causes of

many of the illnesses prevalent among lower income persons.

Do these business owners care about the lower income customer's health? Perhaps they do at some level, if they think they are offering the service of providing food for sale, but to this argument it must be stated, for starters, that most individuals in low income neighborhoods can only afford cheap meals, and that they get whatever their money can buy - and that this could be cheap, nutritious food - if the businesses were only to operate with good intentions.

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ment of fast food outlets in lower income areas are clear, their future and long-lasting dangers come into more vital focus when attention is paid to the children who are consuming such meals. These foods do nothing to their bodies except give them a "belly full." Children who are fed in this manner do not receive proper nutrition and this, in turn, affects their capacity to learn at the level which would make them capable of entering and succeeding in institutions of higher learning - and, of course, becoming able to earn salaries that would permit them to move up and out and also assist the development of their communities. Only very rarely do we see schools, libraries or community

Do these authorities pay any consideration to the questions on policy intent of the entrepreneurs, on the effects of the product, on the health of individual citizens, and particularly on the pressure on the health care system that results from the reliance of lower income people on poor quality meals? This would not appear to be the case, because even while the current and immediate ill effects of increased place-

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centers being opened in lower income communities and even rarer, to see charities or civic involvement on the part of fast food franchises. The incursion of the fast food restaurants, liquor stores and lottery stores in low income areas contributes to inhabitants being malnourished, remaining under-educated, having low self esteem and ultimately turning to crime. These practices of targeting lower income neighborhoods need to be suppressed if we are to develop. Although they have occurred for decades, it is not too late to reverse the wrongs that they generate. Let us now put a stop to them if not now, then when? And if not us then who?

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

a Sports can help develop and

keep Guyanese at home Much emphasis is being placed on job creation, education and academic achieyements. According to the design of the education system, many of the organisations and agendas geared at self-development seem to be catered to an academic or cottage industry type model. For a very long time, Guyana has denied the innate skills and talents of its people and has denied them in many ways, the platforms to excel and inspire others to do the same. Through a creative lens, it would appear that there is very little room for innate talents to be groomed and sold. Many countries, like Jamaica for instance, are taking advantage of the personal talents and skills of its people; whether it be music, sports or pageantry, while some are still in the darkness about the benefits of developing citizens' personal skills outside of an academic or economic-propelled arena. Like the dormant music industry, which has undeservingly captured the patience of many local artistes who await protection under the passage of modern copyright and patent laws, sports is another avenue that has the ability to provide life changing opportunities. An interesting news piece written by a senior sports journalist and experienced sportsman, Sean Devers, last September shone some light as to the condition of sports in the country. He showed how under the previous admin-

istration the interest in sports faded away as the events that supported various sporting activities were gradually phased out. He had pointed to the poor upkeep of sporting facilities, both privately and publicly owned. Whether their structures have deteriorated or not, he related that many of the facilities were not in ideal shape to conduct activities. Outside of this there has been no word on the expansion of the sports industry, leaving one to wonder whether the development of games such as horse racing, hockey and cycling, among many others, would receive national attention. Football is a favorite in the country, but the level of game is not exactly international quality. Lawn tennis, basketball, table tennis, boxing and squash are just a few more of the sporting interests, but this industry remains a sleeping giant. Around the world, people are going to places they may not have been able to see had it not been for sports. Sports are educating people, making them rich, famous and influential. Not only is Jamaica's Usain Bolt captivating the world with unbreakable

? ril . aft1 aa1 Jk J..v The Guyana contingent at the Olympics in Brazil.

records, but he is also selling his country; demanding that sponsors bring their money and benefits to Jamaica if they want his endorsements. That country is surely being recognized for its world class track and field program, so much so that discussion has surfaced over First World athletes heading to Jamaica for that superior training. It would be highly doubtable, even for the 'sport-ignorant' type that Jamaica's track and field glory just sprung upon them. It had to have taken decades to perfect the art of creating superior sportsmen and women, in this instance, in track and field. The Jamaicans found their skill and kept at it. On the other hand, countries are providing all types of sports scholarships.

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Students, in particular, are recruited to play a sport for a particular school/university, sometimes in a foreign country, and they in turn are allowed to attend and study at little or no cost to the holder of the scholarship. It's not impossible to think that many young persons especially would work their hearts out to excel in a particular sport so they can be afforded the education their parents might not be able to give them. Doors would be wide open for young people, including those from less fortunate backgrounds, to work their way out of poverty, whether they become athletes or use the opportunity to pursue academic careers. Additionally, developing the local sports industry would prevent talented young persons from seeking the training and guidance they need abroad. The blame being tossed around about Guyana's presence and abilities at the Olympics, more recently in Rio, Brazil, has seen the local Olympics Association pointing to clubs and sport associations for not developing their athletes, while the Olympics association is being blamed for not helping to develop the sports. At the end of the finger cross-pointing, athletes like US-based Troy Doris, the Guyanese who performed outstandingly in Rio, will need somewhere to continue the development of their skills. Sports is just another factor that drives people out of their countries if the necessary avenues are not provided. Developing the sporting industry can prevent the escape of much needed talent. It has been said before that athletes are groomed to perform, and many countries have recognized the need to start young. At early ages and all throughout their schooling, young people are being groomed to become international athletes. It might call for significant funding, but is a positive investment which holds short and long term benefits if playing sports is made into a 'meal ticket'. Investing in sports can play a huge part in curbing poverty in the country.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

Handel

Things

That

Bother

Andrews Column

Peering

into

Party Affiliation

American General Elections are interesting; but not •* «•

usually close. The last close election in two centuries was in 2000 between Gorge W. Bush and A1 Gore, when the former won 271 electoral votes and

50,456,002 popular votes to the latter's 266 and 50,999,897 respectively. The Presidency was declared for Bush after

a recount of Florida's electoral college votes and a Supreme Court ruling. All other elections in 200 years

have been predictable. The main reason for this is party affiliation, which is based on gender, generation, education and race. The last is the most significant. AFRICAN SUPPORT Democrats hold advantages over the Grand Old Party (GOP) in party affiliation among Africans, Asians and Hispanic s. The GOP draws its support from Europeans - particularly men, the less educated and evangelical Protestants. This article discusses African support. According to Pew Research Center, African support for the Democratic

Party is 80%, the highest of any group supporting the Dems. This was not always the case. Prior to 1930, most African voters identified with the Republican Party. In point of fact, the first Africans elected to the U.S. Congress (during the Reconstruction period of 1865 to 1877) were all Republican! The 13th (abolishing slavery), 14th (addressing citizenship rights and equal protection of the laws, proposed

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m voters at a polling station in New York. in response to issues related to former support. Has African crime lessened? slaves following the American Civil Are there more than five African DirecWar) and the 15th (granting African cit- tors of Fortune 500 companies? Are izens of America the right to vote) fewer Africans on food stamps or govAmendments were passed by Republi- ernment handouts? Does the next African generation believe that the fucans, not Democrats. When the Republicans passed the ture will be better for them? I could go 13th amendment, no Democrat voted in on and on, however, I am sure you get favor and they left Congress and took my drift. their states with them to form what ofMost Africans give the Democrats ficially became known as The Slavea pass, whether their lot improves or holding Confederate States of America. not. In the words of an analyst, The Democrats were the anti"Africans have become Democratic African party until the 1930s. In point House slaves." I wouldn't put it that of fact, Africans were not even allowed way. 1 would prefer saying that we have to officially attend the Democratic conbecome accustomed to voting Democvention until 1924. rat and see no need to change. By the end of the 30s, African support for the Democrats was only 50%. I am not a Trump supporter; but he This, after Franklin D. Roosevelt's is making an outreach to Africans. Is it New Deal during the 1930s Great de- wrong for him to do this? Is the GOP pression and Hairy S. Truman's deseg- wrong in trying to win us back? regation of the military, in addition to A recent Harvard University poll an executive order affecting racial disconducted among Africans aged 18-29 crimination of federal employment. found overwhelming support for DeThe passage of the Civil Rights mocrats. Indeed, 55 percent preferred a and Voting Rights Acts in 1964 was Democrat in the White House com"the critical watershed moment in racial pared to 40 percent who wanted a Repolitics in America." They were both signed into law by Lyndon B. Johnson, publican. However, African support for a Democrat. Africans, who were the the Dems is down slightly. In 2012, it main beneficiaries, began voting De- was 67%. If this trend continues, hismocrat in gratitude. In response, the tory might repeat itself and Africans Republican Party began pursuing a might return to the Grand Old Party. Southern strategy. This is a policy We are taken for granted by the which seeks to win elections in South- Dems. Let them earn our support. ern states by exploiting anti-African When Mrs. Clinton wins, we must see sentiment, among other things. By 2012 if she keeps her promises made to us. only 16% of Africans considered them- We must look at results and not vote selves Republicans. through blind loyalty. If she fails to keep them, she must not be given a secHISTORY MIGHT REPEAT ond term and, perhaps, it might be time Africans have begun asking serious questions about their Democratic to try the Grand Old Party.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016 New York Edition tTbronlcle S THE MATIOM'S MEWSEAEER ^ Editor-in-Chief

T fe. Y

Nigel Williams Editor Godfrey Wf ay Editorial; 227-5216; 227-5204 wnigel 1 O@hotmail.com. gniileditorial@gmail.com For All Publishing and Advertising in New York consult our New York Representative: Dennis A. Nelson dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com Tel: 917-379-6590 (E tutorial

Negative

Perception

Not

enough

ExxonMobirs 'Skip Jack' well comes up short EXXONMOBIL'S 'Skip Jack' well has proven not to have commercial quantities of hydrocarbons, a statement from the Ministry of Natural Resources said on Thursday. "The Ministry of Natural Resources was informed by ExxonMobil and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) on August 29. 2016 that the 'Skip Jack' well proved not to have commercial quantities of hydrocarbons. We are continuing to have verification work done and awaiting a full report and more information will be provided then, the statement said. The Ministry said the oil giant's announcement has reminded it of the "undulating fortunes of mining in general and of oil exploration in particular." According to the statement. ExxonMobil will continue with its plans to develop the Liza Well with its declared capacity of approximately one Billion barrels of oil and look for possible targets for drilling. "Likewise the Government continues its preparations for the eventual production of oil and gas in the near future by building capacity at the legislative, technical and regulatory levels." the statement added. ExxonMobil spudded the Skip Jack' exploration well offshore Guyana, some 40km northwest of the deep water Liza well. ExxonMobil had announced at the end of June that its

Liza well offshore Guyana contains hydrocarbon reserves in the range of 800M to 1.4 B equivalent barrels of crade oil and described it as a "world- class discovery" "We are excited by the results of a production test of the Liza-2 well, which confirms the presence of high-quality oil from the same high-porosity sandstone reservoirs that we saw in the Liza-1 well completed in 2015." said Steve Greenlee. President of ExxonMobil Exploration Company. The Liza wells are located in the Stabroek Bloc approximately 120miles (193 kilometres) offshore Guyana. Data from the successful Liza-2 well test is being assessed. According to the release, the Liza-2 well was drilled by ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, approximately two miles (3.3 km) from the Liza-1 well. The Liza-2 well encountered more than 190 feet (58 metres) of oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs in Upper Cretaceous formations. The well was drilled to 17.963 feet (5.475 metres) in 5.551 feet (1.692 metres) of water. The Stabroek block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek block. Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest.

the Prince

Harry

Police to THE 2016 USAID Report on Guyana said the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is the institution Guyanese least trust. The GPF, which was established during the colonial period (1839), though having the motto "Service and Protection" through the years has meant different things, and not necessarily to the well-being of citizens. Where in the colonial period it meant not only the maintenance of law and order, but also keeping the colonised 'in their place' and 'protecting' the colonisers from the colonised, the evolving relationship between the police and citizens have been tepid at best and stormy at worst The police are products of the society, will operate within the framework allowed, and often take their cue from the prevailing political dynamics. The force has never been socialised to see itself as part of the masses with equal responsibility to serve and protect as the leadership, but that of the masses being suspects to be contained at all cost. And this perception has seen the force's utilisation of methods and measures which oftentimes are inconsistent with modem policing. Negative perceptions of the force are informed by police brutality, ineffective crime-fighting strategies, extra-judicial killings, court jackets being misplaced, high losses of cases in the courts, bribery, always wanting 'a tap-up.' and hostile community interactions, as the most notable. In each instance. with the application of modem policing techniques, including acceptable, universally standard operational procedures, respect for laws and human rights as well as proper remuneration, negative perceptions can be reduced. Current efforts through training in ethics and improved public relations strategies, along with partnership training with developed countries are noted. Recent released statistics showing a comparative decline in serious crimes are also positive. While these are aiding in building positive perceptions, where almost all in society sees the force in a negative light. it requires a holistic, stractured approach in reducing such perceptions. The inclination to accept bribes or to take a 'tap up.' apart from weeding out corrapt officers, requires examination of the remuneration package, which is less than attractive. The force is designed to be a professional institution and if this is to be maintained. it requires necessary investment to treat it as such. To look at remuneration through the lens of the

visit

Guyana

BRITISH High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn has announced that Prince Harry will be visiting Guyana later this year. A statement from the British High Commissioner's office on Monday quoted Quinn as saying. "It gives me great pleasure to be able to confirm that Prince Harry will be visiting Guyana later this year. This will be the first visit by a member of the Royal Family since 2004 and comes, of course, in the year of Guyana's 50tii anniversary of Independence. It is therefore a particularly relevant time for such a visit." The release further noted that Prince Harry will make the official visit to the Caribbean in the late autumn, on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen; he is slated to visit Antigua and Barbuda. Barbados. Grenada. Guyana. St Kitts and Nevis. St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

State being unable to pay. accompanied by the explanation that recruits leave after a few years, present as symptomatic structural deficiencies in treating with the profession. Avenues have to be pursued to attract professionals and salaries can be complemented with incentives and benefits. There are reports addressing modernisation of the force. The Disciplined Services Commission Report (2003). of which a commissioner was current President David Granger. was unanimously approved by the National Assembly in 2010. There is the Linden Commission of Inquiry Report (2013) into the 18th July 2012 police shooting. These are incisive reports, achieved and borne at cost to the State, deserving of attention and their recommendations implemented. Though negative perceptions of the police are not unique to Guyana, as evident in countries such as Jamaica and the United States (U.S.). Guyana must not be unique in not addressing same. Where citizens in the U.S. have mobilised and are organised in addressing police excesses and poor police/community relations, addressing these repressive aspects of policing gets a fillip when political leadership joins the chorus. The voices of President Barack Obama. the country's Commander-in-Chief. ' Governors, the state's commander-in-chief. along with those police heads and law-

Prince Harry "The visit falls on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Independence for Barbados, the 50tii Anniversary of Independence for Guyana, and the 3 5th Anniversary of Independence for Antigua and Barbuda." the release stated. Prince Harry officially visited Barbados in 2010; this will be his first official visit to all of the other countries. makers not only put the national spotlight on burning issues, but also force required actions to address the problems. As a leader in 'Black Lives Matter.' when asked about black police killing black civilians, she responded that though blacks are disproportionately targeted by the police, the issue is not merely about race, but that of colour, which is blue. i.e. the colour of the uniform worn by police. The force is a para-military institution and training advises that the cue is often taken from the leadership, (political and internal), even in instances when leadership violates laws and transgresses rights. History has shown those who toe the line in wrongdoing, once countenanced by the leadership, are rewarded with promotion. The institution of policing serves an invaluable role in society and it is important in the discharge of its responsibility that relations with the people are improved. Recently, there have been bright spots in hearing President Granger, Commander-in-Chief, speaking out against vigilante justice and police shooting of alleged criminals , instead of charging and bringing them before the court which are views consistent with the laws. It would be noticed after the president's displeasures were made known the force has moved to act consistent with the laws.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

A view from New York nr WITH MICHAEL DEREK ROBERTS robertsconstAltln9@gmx.com * <347) 279-6668 A

Hi Is I MM f in V /

s a veteran political strategist I get to see the Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton presidential campaigns

J*. ^kplay out from a different vantage point than the ordinary voter or layman. And over the past months I've seen the transformation of one candidate and the scared bomhast meltdown of the other. Let me start hy saying that Hillary Clinton deserves to be the Democratic Party's standard-bearer in the November presidential elections. She has run a really organized, modem and focused campaign. I cannot say that about the Republican Party's candidate Donald J. Trump. Still, some challenges still remain for BOTH campaigns. For the Hillary Clinton campaign there is the issue of Senator Bemie Sanders supporters and how she handles them going forward, even after Senator Sanders endorsed her. He is still the presumed leader of the "Obama Coalition" that she needs to win in November. Ultimately he has to get behind the Democratic nominee. He's won 23 of the caucuses and primaries. He's electrified younger voters in a way that nobody has seen since Barack Obama in 2008. Dismissing him or not treating him with respect will be a major mistake - angry, disillusioned Sanders supporters may just stay home. That said, I believe that it is high time that people who like, hate or dislike Hillary Clinton understand that by becoming the Democratic Party's nominee she's the first woman to do so in 240 years. She stands on the shoulders of Shirley Chisholm and others whose campaigns were killed off by the good "ole boys" -- mainly white — club in both parties. Still, despite this historic achievement, Hillary Clinton does evoke strong feelings of love and hate from many people in this nation. Many are sometimes miffed at her military hawkishness that is more in line with Republican positions in Congress. She's had to be tough and Teflon in an activity that is still dominated and controlled by men. And too, she's the most investigated, held up to scrutiny and maligned of any politician in recent United States history. I wonder, had she been a man if she would be treated thusly? But let there be absolutely no doubt that she's perhaps the most capable and experienced politician - Black, white and other — of her generation. Others have bought into the false media narrative that has not been kind to her. Still others have tried to lump her record in with her husband's and former president, Bill Clinton, and conflate his flaws and unfairly passing them on to her in a weird phenomenon

of guilt by association or osmosis, depending on where you sit. Today the paradox of her victory is that she's done something in American politics and history that no woman has even come close to doing, while at the same time, especially from Republican quarters, she's considered flawed, inept and a generally crooked candidate. I think that it is high time that, hate her or love her, we acknowledge that this is one truly remarkable woman. In 2008, most Americans thought that her path to the White House would be easy peasy. That was not the case and the media pundits dismissed her then as weak and scripted and just running because she wanted to break the glass ceiling as the first woman to become president of the United States. And drunk on their own narratives, the elites in Washington did not listen to her. Bowed and beaten by then Senator Barack Obama, she vowed that the next time would be different. So she licked her wounds but kept her political machine in place as she boosted her formidable resume as the United States Secretary of State while mending fences with President Barack Obama. She also jumped into this presidential race after carefully considering her options and looking at and analyzing the Republican Party field. The fact is that Hillary could have beaten any of them and she knew it. Meanwhile, the GOP went into attack mode in the early stages of the election with its Benghazi witch hunt and when that did not stick, exaggerated the private server and email issue into idiotic overdrive. Underestimating her has been a cardinal weakness of the Republican Party that still sees her as a wonkish, policy-driven woman who cannot compete with the "boys on the Hill." Fact is, she shrewdly used the Benghazi hearings as a public forum to show her toughness and how she could hold her own against the almost all-male, allwhite congressional inquisition, thus

appealing to a major voting block in the United States women. This was her wooing a buffer to white males as a group that has never supported her in large numbers. For me, I get the nagging feeling that Hillary Clinton's detractors, especially those who would malign her on a purely partisan level, have not yet grasped nor understood the full scale of her achievements. Perhaps people are just now starting to see her as not just a "former first lady " but a formidable politician in her own right. And in the aftermath of her California win that effectively clinched her party's nomination, people were still too shell-shocked to appreciate the fact that this particular glass ceiling took a lot of effort to f**king break. Before Hillary Clinton, no one even came close. So even if you like Clinton or hate her — and plenty of Americans hate her — it's time to admit that the reason Clin-

ton was the one to break it is because she is actually really very, very good at politics that has always been seen as "a man's game." Yes, Hillary Clinton does have her flaws and that's why Bemie Sanders — and she's admitted that — was so crucial to her campaign. He had the effect of making her a truly great and better candidate while keeping in the (continued on page 25)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE CELERRATES LATINO HERITAGE MONTH

MELISSA MARK-VIVERITO BROOKLYN, N.Y. - The Trailblazer Award to City Council Speaker Melissa Vlark-Viverilo, a Town Hall with local elected officials to discuss issues affecting New York's Latino population, and a wellness panel and health screening fair are among the many events for Medgar Evers College's Latino Heritage Month, September 15-October 15,2016. Ms. Mark-Vivcrito, the first Latina to hold a city wide elected position, will receive her award when Latino Heritage Month festivities kick off on September 15. Also beginning September 15 is a month-long "Converging Visions" ait exhibition featuring spoken word artist Noel Quinones, in the College's Charles Evans Inniss Memorial Library. This year's heritage month theme is "The State of Latino New York City 2016," and it reflects the vibrancy of the community at the College and beyond. At Medgar Evers College, the Latino population doubled between 2008 and 2011 alone and now stands slightly above 12 percent. The college supports the Association for Latin American Studies (ALAS), a club for Latino students. City wide, Latinos number at least 2.3 million (according to the 2010 census) and constitute the city's largest population group under the age of 25. Those numbers highlight the need for

events that acknowledge the rich heritage of this growing demographic in educational institutions. "This yearly cultural celebration affirms to our Latino students that they arc an integral part of the Medgar- Evers family," said Rosalina Diaz, an associate professor of Education and the founder of ALAS. "Educational research on this population has shown that Latino students need to feel engaged and acknowledged in order for us to retain them." Dr. Diaz, the coordinator and the chair of the Latino Heritage Month planning committee, is also the director of the College's Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Angel Seda, the current ALAS president and a Public Administration major, spent 15 years as a community organizer on the Lower East Side and

TO BE HONORED

in East Harlem. "We are the biggest growing voter bloc," Mr. Seda said of the country's Latino population. "The club will be focusing on voter registration. We want to be in line with who Medgar Evers was." Medgar Evers, the civil rights leader for whom the college is named, made voting rights for blacks in the South a cornerstone of his work. Here are the major events presented by the Medgar Evers College Latino Heritage Month Planning Committee, September 15 through Oct. 15, 2016: 1 — 9/15/2016 1-3 P.M. Trailblazer Award Celebration Honoring City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito Edison O. Jackson Auditorium 1638 Bedford Avenue 2 — 9/29/2016 11:30 A.M. - 4 RM. "The State of Health in Latino New York City 2016: Treating the Body, Mind and Spirit of the NYC Latino Community" and Latino Wellness Fair Room L12 and the Lobby 1638 Bedford Avenue 3 — 9/29/2016,6-8 P.M. "The State of Latino New York City 2016: Converging Visions Art Exhibit Opening with Noel Quinones Charles Evans Inniss Memorial Library (exhibit is up 9/15 - 10/15/2016)

1650 Bedford Avenue 4—10/5/2016,1-3P.M. "The State of Latino New York City 2016 Town Hall" with Council Members Carlos Menchaca, Rafael Espinal and NYS Assemblywoman Ischia Bravo Founders Auditorium 1650 Bedford Avenue 5 — 10/5/2016, 2-5P.M. "The Latino Entrepreneur ship Project" Guest speaker. Council member Carlos Menchaca, Workshop and Mixer President's Conference Room (1008) 1650 Bedford Avenue 6.10/14/2016 1- 4 P.M. "Latinos: Defining Place and Space in a Postmodern Society" Student Mini Conference and Scholarship Award Presentation Edison O. Jackson Auditorium 1638 Bedford Avenue About Medgar Evers College Located in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, Medgar Evers College is a growing institution offering both Associate and Baccalaureate degrees. The nearly 7,000-member student body is primarily comprised of those who are the first in their families to attend college. Medgar Evers College was established in 1970 with a mandate to meet the educational and social needs of the Central Brooklyn community. For more information, visit www.mec.cuny.edu.

STATEMENT ON NYPD RESPONSE TO INSPECTOR GENERAL'S REPORT ON QUALITY-OF-LIFE ENFORCEMENT bers Jumaane D. Williams (DBrooklyn), Deputy Leader, Brad Lander, and Vanessa L. Gibson issued the following statement following the NYPD's release of a report defending the broken windows policing model. "We are disappointed with the NYPD's response to the Inspector General's (IG) recent report on Quality-of-Life Enforcement. The City Council created the Office of the Inspector General to ensure that NYPD policies and procedures are operating effectively and consistently with the law — with the understanding that everyone in NYC, including the NYPD, will benefit from a more accountable, efficient police force. "Their recent report achieved exactly what the Office of the Inspector General was intended to do:

NYPD's report, 'there is no strict mathematical relationship between these two factors.' This supports the need for more effective, measurable policing practices. In essence, the NYPD's report is splitting hairs, in refuting their previous claim that the Broken Windows Theory leads to a direct decrease in felony crime, but instead fosters 'a general atmosphere of order and a general sense of police presence.'

based on sound statistical evidence, the IG report found that certain NYPD broken windows strategies do not have a measurable impact on violent crime in NYC, and set forth recommendations to improve these strategies for more data-driven, measurable, and equitable impacts on our communities. IG Eure's report was objective, fair and written

with the intent to reduce tensions between the NYPD and the diverse communities it serves — not to inflame them. "Contrary to what the NYPD is presenting, the IG's report is in agreement with the NYPD's findings about the correlation between quality-of-life summons and preventing serious crime. According to the

"It is extremely disappointing to see that Commissioner Bratton has not only obstinately refused the IG's sensible recommendations, but has attempted to disparage and discredit the IG's vital work in the process. We look forward to working more productively with incoming Commissioner O'Neill to improve policing and police-community relations in NYC."

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

NY-based

Guyanese

promote

history, By Alva Solomon in New York Guyanese have had a historical, impacting contribution to New York City and Ohio-based professor Dr Vibert Cambridge, a son of the soil, is encouraging various generations of Guyanese resident in the 'Big Apple' to promulgate and feature that rich history. Dr Cambridge made the call while addressing an audience at the 15th award ceremony of the Guyana Cultural Association (GCA), held at the Brooklyn Borough Hall I

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tributions of several outstanding Guyanese based in the US. According to Dr Cambridge, the GCA celebrates individuals who embody core values which promote originality and contribute to innovation within the arts. The past 15 years have been marvelous, he said, and have been inspired by works of many outstanding Guyanese including the late Wordsworth McAndrew, whose spirit, he noted, showcased and celebrates the multiple roots of Guyana's cultural heritage. He said that that as the •v/

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GCA ON LINE MA,

itage. He pointed to the body's work aimed at reviving the masquerade art in Guyana, noting that there are a number of tangible efforts to support the art form. Dr Cambridge noted that masquerade transcends grace and efforts are being undertaken to revive the form in Guyana . He said at the moment Essequibo possesses more masquerade bands than any other part of the country, including Berbice where no band can be found. He noted that Dr Paloma Mohammed is pressing the study of masquerade lyrics in Guyana

FOLK FESTIVAL :NG, PROMOTING & GUYANA S CULTURE

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Guyana's

culture and according to him, she noted that there is much more to the few lyrics which is usually heard annually "Christmas comes once a year and everyone should have their share," a sour ginger beer chorus, he said. In terms of promotion, the GCA's annual symposium is an area which he pointed out as is key to sharing Guyana's rich heritage. He spoke of the "we bridging" initiative, a collaborative approach involving persons in Guyana, New York and the wider diaspora, which points to a strategy for closing in on the cultural deficit. To this end , Dr Cambridge noted =7

that in future, the GCA will give priority to partnerships , noting that body is looking forward to strengthening relations with the Brooklyn Arts Council and the University if Guyana, among other entities . At Wednesday evening's event, several persons were presented with awards including Guyanese Online advocate Cyril Bryan for his leading focus on expanding and enhancing the interests of Guyanese everywhere. Writer and Educator Cyril Dabydeen was also presented with an award for his contributions as short-story writer novelist as well as an advocate for race relations. Egbert Carter , an ex-

pert in engineering field was also recognized for his work as a cultural enabler while Beverley Drake , one of Guyana's first female pilots was also recognised at the event. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a lifetime award to Claire Ann Goring, an artist and cultural advocate who advanced Guyana's festive and graphic arts for almost four decades. Members of the National Dance Company also graced the event and its members who travelled to the US via assistance from the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport later entertained visitors to the event.

TS IT M

£iS lYMPQSIU: I CA CAR IBB, ER ITAGE 'OR SHO Dr Vibert Cambridge addresses the gathering .Standing alongside him is Richard Chin, son of the late cultural icon Godfrey Chin in Brooklyn, New York Wednesday evening last. Speaking to the large gathering of countrymen and women, Dr Cambridge who is President of the body, noted that the GCA is working as part of its mandate to generate content, including research and documentation of the Guyanese presence in New York, stretching way before 1966 when Guyana attained independence from Great Britain. "In 1902 we had Guyanese here; in 1919 we had Rudolph Dunbar as a student here," he said, as he called on the young generations of today to assist the GCA in telling "the story of the Guyanese presence in New York ". The award ceremony was undertaken to honour persons who have contributed to the development of the arts in Guyana and it also recognized the con-

late Godfrey Chin would say "our mission is to preserve to promote and to promulgate Guyana's heritage and creativity." He said that the work of the GCA is guided by the belief that Guyanese folk heritage reveal common threads which connect." "It is very easy to find the thing which separates us," he said, noting that the GCA believes that when one seeks those common threads, one establishes and deepen thrust. "Without intersecting trust there can be no sustainable development in Guyana," he added, noting that that it was his only political statement for the night, as the audience laughed. Dr Cambridge noted that over the past 15 years, the GCA has worked on preserving original research on Guyanese cultural her-

A section of the audience at the event

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Members of the National Dance Company perform during a reception following the award ceremony

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

Dr. Basil Springer's Column

"He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, 'Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven'." Albert Einstein has been credited with a definition of insanity as "Doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results". The implication here is that we have to become "the best change-makers", if we are going to make sustainable progress. Enterprise development has been heralded globally as the stimulus that is needed for economic growth. Yet the major catalysts to enterprise development: (1) a sound foundation brought about by good corporate governance; (2) the security of timely and appropriate investment funding; (3) life which can be induced by a creative marketing strategy; (4) sustainability as a result of operational efficiency leading to profitability; and (5) growth which may be brought about by unlocking human potential; are often lacking and inhibit the development of many brilliant ideas and innovations. The traditional funding instrument may be described as a "loan" which is the primary financial investment instrument offered by commercial banks and other financial institutions. Commercial banks generally are reluctant to lend to start-up enterprises because these enterprises are intrinsically fledgling high business risk entities. Also, the principals of these startup enterprises are usually unable to meet one or more of the bank's traditional loan requirements, e.g. record of repaying debts (no loan experience), independent credit score (no history),

hard asset collateral (no accumulation of wealth), solid business planning (no operational experience in the start-up business), and regular repayments (cash flow not yet established). Why do start-up enteiprises fail at an alarming rate thus making them high business risk entities? My experience is that not enough attention is paid to the management of business systems (corporate governance, investment finance, marketing, operations and human resource development). We need a paradigm shift, we need to become change-makers and introduce the concept of Shepherding which is a management activity involving the amalgam of mind-set, skill-set and cross cultural communication change.

It is not expected that commercial banks or other traditional financial institutions will depart from their main business of "loans" to accommodate start-up enteiprises but there is a major business opportunity waiting to happen for those financial institutions which

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Why is Shepherding important? Because it addresses directly the reduction of business risk and therefore provides a measure of security for the investor allowing the investment to thrive. Shepherding enhances the chances of business success. Shepherding should therefore be very attractive to entrepreneurs in the making, entrepreneurs, investors, board members, prospective shepherds and policy makers.

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"loans," "interest," "term," "amortized principal and interest payments" and "risk management" are going to replaced by "working capital investment", "exit strategy and dividend", "flexiterm", "cash flow projection induced payments" and "Shepherding", respectively. The management of this new financial investment space will have to be specially trained and there will have to be a training of Shepherds programme. Of course, as the enlrepreneui s and their start-up businesses mature they then become prospective clients for the traditional commercial banks and other financial institutions. I recall the introduction of ATMs in the Caribbean. All banks were reluctant to be the first but as soon as one bank stepped forward, all the others followed suit. I have a vision of the same thing happening for this new investment paradigm. Let us change and become like children - become change-makers and watch the world of economic growth unfold throughout our region. (Dr. Basil Springer GCM is Change-Engine Consultant, Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust Inc. CBET. His email address is basilgf57@gmail.com and his columns may be found at www.cbetmodel.org and www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com.)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

Goveniinent seeks inveslment in

11 Lighte

\ A

'//

4 plantain chip factory, coconut sector Guyanese, local and abroad, are being Invited to invest in the country's emerging small industries. Moves have been made to develop and strengthen the coconut and plantain industries to make them viable on regional and international markets. The government is requesting "Expressions of Interest" from those seeking to invest in a plantain chip factory that will be located in Leguan, Region Three Essequibo Islands-West Demerara. Persons are also being asked to submit their proposals on how they intend to make the project work. It was stated that the facility is just over 8600 square feet. Work equipment which includes slicing processors, blanching, dewatcr, frying, de-oiling, seasoning and packaging materials is also available. The government, through its Business Ministry has noted that bidders should have the capacity to take possession of the property and commence operation immediately after its acquisition. Moves are also afoot to boost a vibrant coconut industry. The numerous by-products of this fruit has caused the government to make serious moves toward the production of products for overseas markets. Stakeholders within the coconut sector have noted the need for a business plan that would grow the sector. During a recent workshop organized by the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), coconut farmers

were told that some $49m has been granted by the Agriculture Ministry to tackle the Red Palm Mite, a pest which affects the plant's growth. It was noted also that a $3.5m investment is being rolled by October to establish coconut nurseries in Pomeroon, Wakenaam, and Mon Repos; Regions Two, Three and Four respectively. Dr. Oudho Homenauth, NAREI's Chief Executive Officer had said then that despite these ventures, NAREI will still not be able to supply all the coconut trees needed by the fanners; owing to among other tilings, the high demand. The NAREI head noted the high export value of de- husked coconut which was stated at 70 percent. NAREI is currently conducting research in Integrated Pest Management and plant varieties. They said work is also being done in mapping out coconut estates, monitoring the import of plant related materials and providing technical support where necessary. Guyana is also geared to host its first ever Coconut Festival during Coconut Awareness week October 15-23. Business Minister Dominic Gaskin said that "a seemingly endless market" exists for coconut and its by-products. He noted that the fruit is a viable on the world market, and noted government's support in promoting and developing sleeping industries. He has called for the participation of Guyanese at home and abroad to boost local industries with investments.

r A New York City Cab Ride

Hot Dog!

Awoman and her son were taking a cab in New York City. It was raining and all the hookers were standing under the awnings. "Mommy," said the little boy, "what are all those ladies doing?" "They're waiting for their husbands to get off of work," she replied. The cabbie turns around and says, "Geez lady, why don't you tell him the truth? They're hookers. They have sex with men for money." The little boy's eyes opened wide and he said, "Is that true, mommy?" His mother, glaring at the cabbie, answers in the affirmative. After a few minutes, the kid asks, "Mommy what happens to the babies those ladies have?" "They mostly become cab drivers," she replied.

Two Scottish nuns, a Mother Superior and her companion, who had just arrived in the USA, were having a conversation . One says to the other, "I hear that the people of this country actually eat dogs." "Odd," her companion replies, "but if we shall live in America, we might as well do as the Americans do." Nodding emphatically, the Mother Superior points to a hot dog vendor and they both walk towards the cart. "Two dogs, please," says one. The vendor is only too pleased to oblige and he wraps both hot dogs in foil and hands them over the counter. Excited, the nuns hurry over to a bench and begin to unwrap their 'dogs.' The Mother Superior is first to open hers. She begins to blush and then, staring at it for a moment, leans over to the other nun and whispers cautiously, "What part did you get?"

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

Aunt

treated

must

niece

pay almost

"I FELT like a slave." Those were the words uttered by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan as she read the testimony of a 16-year-old girl who was trafficked by her aunt, Joyce Lawrence, for labour exploitation. Magistrate McLennan on Monday found 43-year-old Lawrence guilty of trafficking her underage niece betw een December 12 and 14.2014 at Samatta Point Grove. East Bank Demerara by means of threat. The businesswoman was also found guilty of unlawfully withholding the teen's identification card betw een December 1 and December 28. 2014. at Samatta Point, while being the employer of the young lady. The underage teen had worked with her aunt at Makawau night club in Aishalton in 2014. but was transported to Georgetown to work to repay a debt after the teen had reportedly stolen the women's money. The aunt had made an agreement with the teen's parents which involved the teen working for one year for $30,000 per month, from which $15,000 would be deducted to repay the debt. The magistrate deemed the woman's actions as 'modem day slavery' during her summing up of evidence, as she explained that, from the victim's testimony, she was taken to Lawrence's Samatta Point home and forced into cleaning the home, preparing meals for the family, and taking care of the woman's children. The teen's testimony revealed that, upon arrival at her aunt's home, she had her ID card taken away and was told by

SIM

slave

compensation

her aunt: "You don't try nothing and get away, cause if ya try anything I'll take you to the police." During the period at her aunt, she was impregnated; and when the aunt found out. the teen was beaten and taunted. On November 26.2015 the baby was bom and the teen continued to work for her aunt. The magistrate ruled that Lawrence, under cross-examination, failed to say how much money was owed, or how much money was being paid. Also, she admitted to trafficking the teen from Aishalton to her home. McLennan explained to the court that, based upon the evidence. the teen was compelled and forced into 'debt bondage.' "The victim was merely a child and was forced to take on duties as if she was an adult" the Chief Magistrate told the court during her ruling. Nevertheless, after his client was found guilty. Lawrence's attorney. Euclin Gomes, begged the magistrate to be merciful and give his client a suspended sentence. Prosecutor Inspector Neville Jeffers explained that the victim, while in protective custody for the past eight months, had racked up a bill of $616,000 for accommodation, food, clothing, and other stuff for herself and the baby. The magistrate fined the businesswoman $50,000 or eight weeks' imprisonment for withholding the teen's ID card, and ordered her to give the teen $884,000 before September 30. or serve one year in prison. This money covers loss of income, emotional distress, transport back to Aishalton, and temporary housing.

iP:v

Joyce Lawrence

Medgar Evers College pledges to 'work closely' with SENIOR officials of both the University of Guyana (UG) and the Medgar Evers College of New York met last week and vowed to work closely with each other on enhancing the operation of the local institution. That meeting took place in New York, where UG Registrar Dr Nigel Gravesande. in thanking Medgar Evers for the invitation to work together. said that though different, the two tertiary institutions can work together in that they can learn from each other in many ways. Besides, he said, the Medgar Evers reputation of being one of five student-friendly colleges the world over is something that the UG can take pattern from. "I am absolutely delighted that we can leam from this experience." Dr Gravesande said, adding that another plus in the New York-based institution's favour is that it matriculates students into its programme in a seamless

way. "...and when they don't even meet the matriculation requirements, you have a structured programme for access. which permits them to matriculate. That is one thing UG can leam from; if there are no students, there are no us." Dr. Gravesande said. KEY TO SUCCESS Stressing the importance of giving each and every student the opportunity of attaining a higher education. Dr. Gravesande said a student-friendly and focused environment is a critical component of success. "Clearly, our intention is to benefit from your experiences in the area of research," he assmed his Medgar Evers colleagues, adding: "Any university or college worth its salt has got to place a lot of emphasis on ensuring that our student population uses that intellectual capital for generations currently living

and generations to come." He said. too. that based on the Medgar Evers track record as an institution of academic excellence, the UG and its students stand to benefit from exchanges on many levels, which he considers a win-win situation for both parties. "The seeds that we are sowing today, it is our expectation that it would bring

perfect results and wonderful blessings to us." he stated. UG. Guyana's lone indigenous tertiary institution, is 54 years old. It has a student population (full and part-time) of approximately 8.000 students and a staff complement of approximately 1.000 across two campuses (Turkeyen and Tain). Medgar Evers. on the other hand, has a student population of 7000

across two campuses. According to Dr. Gravesande. the UG collaboration with Medgar Evers would enrich UG students immensely. and would also aid in working with best practices. "We are going to be richer in the areas of sciences, technology, health sciences, and law." he said, adding: "I hope we can put something on the table so you can

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or ■ • * -—,

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also benefit from our own experiences." MUCH TO LEARN Professor of Biology at Medgar Evers. Dr Mohsin Patwary. in brief remarks, said the UG can look forward to support from the institution. Dr Patwary. Dean of the School of Science. Health and Technology for 12 years, said much can be leamt from the institution, in that it not only has the human resource, infrastructure and support, but would "do even much better in the future." As part of the rebirth of UG, a team of senior officials visited the Medgar Evers College to discuss opportunities for collaboration. Among those on the team, besides Dr. Gravesande, were Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ivelaw Griffith and Dr. Emmanuel Cummings of the Faculty of Health Sciences.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

It was an event than can equal or rival any of its kind held to observe Guyana's 50th Anniversary of Independence. The Banquet Hall of the St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Brooklyn was the venue for the staging of the Grand Black Tie Affair to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Chronicle Atlantic Symphony Steel & Brass Orchestra .The formal dinner, which was attended by a wide cross section of longtime supporters as well as current and past members of the band, reminisced as the evening went by where a number of persons were presented with certificates and plaques. Heading the list was former Prime Minister and Mayor - Hamilton Green. Host of the evening Bobby Vicira, a former Manager and player in the band, By Staff Reporter highlighted many of the accomphshments of the group, including then- numerous tours to several countries showcasing Guyana's rich culture. The group which had a Brass component also included at times on Tour, Dancers, Singers and Drama and poetry specialists. Vieira reminded the audience of their many experiences when for example in Brazil, an elderly woman followed the band to every performance and brought flowers for the young players, who were able to perform pieces like Swan Lake, The flight of the Bumble Bee and The 1812 Overture. The band showcased itself in Russia, London, Brazil, Cuba, Canada, The United States and many Caribbean

countries. They represented Guyana at Carifesta 1972 in Guyana, Cuba 1976, and Barbados 1981. For many years the band was also a highlight home with their annual presentation of "Christmas Festival". The group which continued throughout the late 70's and 80's were replaced by a younger generation, after most of the band members migrated to either the US or Canada. The Founder - Rudy Bishop continued the process of training younger students now call the "Acolytes", while maintain the larger and older group in Brooklyn. Today, like Guyana, the band celebrates 50 years on continuous service of keeping the Guyanese flag high in the US, with appearances at many significant festivals and events including the famous "Apollo Theater" in Harlem. Significantly present at the event were veteran theater personalities - Desiree Edgill, Jasper Adams, Henry Rodney and Andre Wiltshire. Vieira highlighted the contribution made by the actors as part of the group, and commended Mr. Hamilton Green for his as-

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j. sistance in the formation and development of Steel Bands in Guyana. Former Director of Music of the Band - Desmond Fraser was among the former members who were recognized. Calvin White, Frank Lynch and Roy Geddes were given high praise for their support and contribution toward the successes of the band at some point or another. Songsters Jenny Ferreira, Daunne Schultz-Blackmore and other well know members were also on hand to join the festivities. The event which brought together friend and relatives, as well a long time supporters was well worth its planning since even more significant, was the passing of the baton to Rudy Bishop's son Steve Bishop who will now take the band and the younger group into the

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next series of years and performances. Rudy in an emotional response after receiving a Life Time award on behalf of all of the present and former from former members reminisced how it was heartwarming to see some of the members whom he had to nurture on tours because of their very young age, have turned out to be outstanding Citizens, Husbands and Fathers. He closed by saying he was now happy to have successfully steered the band for fifty years, and was handing over to his son, who has been at his side for almost forty years of his life. Bishop, a former Member of Parliament under the Burnham administration, now retires in the twilight. Thanks for a job well done Rudy.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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West Indian and Caribbean people from all parts of America and the Caribbean converged on New York to celebrate the Labor Day weekend with their family and friends. They came from as far as California, nual ritual; to others it was their first visit Guyana, Trinidad, Barbados, Jamaica, An- to New York, but they all came and had a tigua, St. Kitts, Montserrat, Grenada and wonderful time. One could identify the nanumerous other countries to play mass, tionality of each visitor as they flew their shop, attend functions and enjoy the numer- respective county's colors with pride. ous backyard parties their friends and famMany organizations take this opportunity ilies hosted for them. to showcase their achievements and hold

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ties in New York are very busy at this time advertising their parties. To gain an advantage, they hire the most popular artistes from their respective countries to perform at their parties. Elected officials take this opportunity to visit the picnics in the parks and the backyard parties, to share their flyers and encourage the revellers to vote for them in the elections, which are always less than two months away. As one reveller remarked: "You can always tell who come out to party and who come out to work. The party people are dressed in their respective country's colors or are decked-out in their shorts and colorful dresses, but the workers are here in their suits and ties." There is no disputing the nationalities of the drivers of the various cars, because they all fly the flags of their respective countries. If the husband and wife or the couples who live together are from different countries, then one will see both countries' flags on their cars. During Labor Day weekend, although each person identifies with their country, they all consider themselves as West Indians, even the Guyanese, who will tell you, I am from South America, but will be a West Indian for that weekend. Along the streets, predominantly in Brooklyn and Queens, the storefronts and even some residences set up stands, selling flags and other souvenir items from every conceivable Caribbean country. All during the Labor Day Weekend, one can buy any Caribbean dish one desires on the sidewalk of many streets. This Labor celebration, which has become too huge to

celebrate on one day, has transformed many people and organizations into entrepreneurs — even though the sale of alcohol is prohibited on the streets, the vendors make a huge turnover with the sale of water, sodas, snacks and everything non-alcoholic that they can make — no vendor takes home any merchandise: they all return home with empty carts or coolers. It is really a joy to see how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity for one weekend, and maybe we can use this formula to keep us together all the time. Let us hope that next year, those of us who think it is necessary to come to these peaceful and joyous celebrations with a gun or some instrument of violence, take time off to study the repercussions and heartaches that such actions inflict on the families of the peaceful bystanders who are injured by those wanton acts. May the Labor Day weekend celebrations live on and may you all come back to a death-free 2017 'Labor Day weekend.' ABOUT THE NEW EDITION OF THE CHRONICLE The New York edition of the Guyana Chronicle newspaper welcomes your news and views about the situation in Guyana and also in your respective state. We know that you are reading our newspaper, either the printed or the online version. We also ask that you advertise with us and support our advertisers. For further info on this newspaper call or email: Dennis Nelson @ (917)379-6590 or dennisnelson.nychronicle @yahoo.com

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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"nthe years I've been involved with real estate, taxation, tlnance and business planning, I've seen styles and fashion of plans .change a lot, but the fundamentals remain fairly constant. Having worked on Wall Street for a number of years, I gathered quite a lot of experience during that period to acquire professional advice and guidance, before I ventured into several business ventures. Most people are knowledge in areas of their individual fields of study and do not share information readily. To help you craft a plan that hits all the right notes, here's a list of some of the more common business planning mistakes you should avoid. DON'T PUT OFF WRITING APLAN First off, don't wait until you have enough time, don't wait until you have the right people, and definitely don't wait until there's an urgent reason that you suddenly need a plan. This defeats the entire purpose of a plan. Instead, just do it now. Recognize that you need a business plan and that your first step is to prepare your first plan. Get a simple draft running and then continue updating it to keep it current with your current business or your business idea. Of course, you'll soon realize that your plan may never be done, but the important thing is, you're planning has started and you can tweet it as you dream and visualize. You should always be planning your business. DON'T CONFUSE CASH

tomer service, training of staff and customers paying their bills timely to make an idea a

Profitab|e business. Write a business plan that shows you building a business around these reat ldeas or for g -

A plan that stresses three or four main priorities is a plan with enormous focus driven by power. Professionals looking at your plan can easily comprehend and digest three or four main points and get the point you are trying to portray which may give you that loan you desire. A plan that lists twenty (20) priorities doesn't really have any direct focus. DON'T OVERVALUE THE BUSINESS IDEA What gives an idea business value is not the idea itself but a business that's built on top of it. It takes dedicated employees who would show up every morning, phone calls being answered, products being built ordered and shipped, services being rendered, courteous cus-

activity dates and specifying what's supposed to happen and who's supposed to make it happen. These details really matter. A business plan is practically wasted without data.

get it. An idea standing alone surely does not make a great business. DON'T CONFUSE A PLAN WITH THE ACT OF PLANNING You need both to succeed. Your planning process doesn't end when your plan is complete. Rather, it now begins. The value of a plan is in the execution, and implementation starts the day you settle on the main points of your plan. Please be aware that your business plan is never really done, you will always be revising it, or should be, because reality is always pressing forward as technology changes, equipment changes and as customer demands change. Therefore the demands have to coordinate with your supply. Without a plan setting markers, you'll never know the difference between the completed plan and reality. Work your plan; don't just write it.

DON'T SWEAT THE DETAILS FOR THE LATER YEARS This is about planning, not accounting, and you're only guessing the future in a system full of uncertainties mingled with competition. As important as monthly details are in the beginning, they become a waste of time later on. How can you project monthly cash for three years from now, when your sales forecast is so uncertain? Sure, you can plan in five, 10 or even 20year horizons in the major conceptual text, but you can't plan in monthly detail past the first year. This is not predictable it is merely jargon. DON'T CREATE ABSURDLY OPTIMISTIC SALES PROJECTIONS

DON'T FUDGE THE DETAILS IN THE FIRST 12 MONTHS By details, I mean your financials, milestones, dates, responsibilities and deadlines. Cash flow is the most important, but you also need lots of details when it comes to assigning tasks to people, delegating responsibilities to the appropriate employees and managers. Setting

WITH PROFITS There's a huge difference between the two. Waiting for customers to pay can cripple your financial situation without affecting your profits. Loading your inventory absorbs money without changing profits. Spending most of your money buying inventory doesn't affect profits, but cash flow is much more important than profits because profits are an accounting concept and cash is money in the bank. Please understand that you don't pay your bills with profits. DON'T DILUTE YOUR PRIORITIES

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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The sashed delegates at Gravity on Sunday night By Tamica Garnett AS the race intensifies to find the ultimate beauty that will represent Guyana at the upcoming Miss Universe 2016 Pageant, 13 of the 14 beauties vying for the crown were officially introduced to the public for the first time at the "Sashing Event of the 2016 Miss Universe Guyana" held at Gravity Lounge Sunday night. Being sashed on Sunday was the experienced Soyini Fraser. along with Aysya Kelly. Malika Russell. Denisha Rogers. Ashley John. Iman Jaisingh. Meleisa DeFreitas. Rufieya Husain. Odessa Grogan. Ariella Basdeo. Xameira Kippins. Keleisha Kelly, and Ashley Cameron. The pageant originally had 15 finalists, however one young lady has dropped out. while another was reportedly not present for the sashing. Off to an almost one hour late start, the event was chaired by Deputy Mayor of Georgetown, who called on the ladies to each give a brief introduction of themselves. It was here that the public could begin to get an insight of the girls who would be strong contenders in this pageant, and those who were not going to get far. At least one delegate had and attack of stage fright and stumbled through her introduction, but then there were those who just showed that they are going to be serious contenders. There is no doubt that this year's pageant is one with serious competition, containing several bigw igs like Husain. who reigned as the 2014 Miss Guyana World, and went onto place in the top ten at the international Miss World Pageant in London that year. There is also the hard hitting HJTV PRO Soyini Eraser. Saying Eraser is no stranger to pageant life in Guyana is an understatement. Eraser is hoping to add the Miss Universe title under her belt with her line of other titles. Eraser was 2010 Miss Earth Guyana, Guyana's 2011 representative to the Miss Princess of the World 2011, 2012 Miss United Nations, 2014 Miss Jamzone Guyana,

One of the better Miss Universe Guyana delegates of the night, Keliesha Kelly (Samuel Maughn photo) as well as first runner up in the 2011 Miss World Guyana pageant. Fraser is hoping for the second time to charm the judges, having ended as the first ranner-up in the 2014 Miss Universe Guyana pageant. She noted that she was encouraged to re-enter the pageant after the organisation came under new

management. Earlier this year the pageant franchise was attained by a former Miss World delegate Jyoti Hardat. noting that. "The Miss Guyana Universe organisation assures the public that the pageant will be ran with honour, fairness and transparency." In her introduction, Fraser encouraged Guyanese to "sit back, relax and enjoy as my pageant sisters and I take you on a journey of exquisite Guyanese beauty". Fraser is not the only one giving the Miss Universe Guyana pageant another go. Nineteen year old Malika Russell and Whitehead are also repeat delegates. Nineteen-year-old Russell was one of the contestants in last year's delegates' line-up. In her introduction on Sunday she aptly noted that she is "someone who never gives up. one who believes in perseverance." A prominent model and actress. Whitehead was second ranner-up in the 2013 Miss Universe Guyana Pageant, where many had expected her to emerge the winner of that title. Others who were smooth in their introduction included college graduate and aspiring radiation oncologist. Denisha Rogers; 24 year old Basdeo. whose concise introduction was well spoken, while Kippins' overview was accompanied by fitting body language. The "talented, beautiful, fierce, shy and very introverted", not to mention tall. 19 year old Keleisha Kelly is another one to watch. While nothing but a smooth delivery was expected from NewsRoom achor Ashley John, who did not disappoint as she spoke of her FIT 360 platform. The girls are expected to be engaged in several activities and training culminating with the official pageant on September 17 at the Marriott Hotel. General admission to the pageant stands at $10,000. while VIP seating is $15,000. The winner of the pageant will represent Guyana at the international Miss Universe Pageant set for 1st January. 2017 in the Philippines, where she will compete against over 50 other contestants for the coveted crown. The reigning Miss Universe is Pia Wurtzbach of the Philippines

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

- pledges $1M towards Id as Berbice High celebrates centenary By Jeune Bailey-VanKeric BERBICE High School students were yesterday urged to adhere to tradition but embrace change, if they want to be able to compete on the global market. The exhortation came from President David Granger. who was on hand to help celebrate the school's turning 100. The event, which was punctuated by musical renditions by the school's steel orchestra. culminated six days of activities which saw scores of persons from the school's alumni turning up. day after day. at the junction of North and Princess Elizabeth Roads in New Amsterdam to get in on the action. Activities over the six days ranged from a welcome reception, exhibition, cultural extravaganza and fair, a day of sporting activities, a Centenary Ball, an inter-faith service, and an excursion. Tasked with delivering the feature address. President Granger, in addition to announcing the donation of G$1B towards the school's information technology laboratory. urged students present at the function to be proud of their institution, and to aspire to follow in the footsteps of those who would have gone before them and made their mark on the world. He also urged that they

adhere to the school's rales, so as to ensure that indiscipline does not erode the foundation which was laid by their predecessors. TIME FOR CHANGE He. however, cautioned that with the century-old institution having unlocked doors that were once closed to the poor, it must now transform itself and embrace the concept of STEM (Science. Technology. Engineering and Mathematics), which is all the rage these days and is the driver of global competitiveness. With STEM being the key to innovation and transformation, the President said. Guyana's capacity to compete in a global market will now rely more and more on our ability to be innovative. which in turn requires a greater emphasis on education. As Education Minister Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine observed when he took to the podium, whenever a child passes 20 or so subjects, he (the minister) asks himself two questions, the first of which is: "What kind of subjects are these?" The other, he said, is: "What manner of child are we raising?" As he went on to say. "For me. education is about educating the whole child. Examinations are important, yes. and I am very happy

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President David Granger with some of the current Berbice High School students at the school's centenary celebrations yesterday they are doing so well; but I believe that, at school, we must give great emphasis to sport and to music... "For us to educate the whole child, we must bring back the things we used to have; there is no reason why we should not have choirs in all the schools. Further, we have to deal with the issue of discipline, and we have aborted corporal punishment..."

W* NATION

Current Principal. Ms. Tracy Helligar. would later pick up on what the minister said in terms of "educating the whole child." saying that the emphasis at BHS is on whole-person development of each child, rather than only focusing on academic achievement. And the upshot of taking this approach to education, she said, has seen Berbice High emerge as the top school in Region Six. moving up the national education ladder from seventh last year to fifth this year, with an 89.52% pass in five or more subjects at Grades One to Three.

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First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger sticks the celebratory cake with Mr. Norman Semple of the Class of 1942, the oldest member of the alumni present at the ceremony

THE HISTORY It was also revealed through Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh, a past pupil, that Berbice High School evolved through the willingness of the likes of the Rev. J.A. Scrimgeour. who availed the downstairs of his manse to house the school; and Mr. C.A. Pugsley. who was tasked with laying the foundation of the instructional programme for the nine boys who were enrolled as its first pupils on

Septembers. 1916. Fifty years on. after denominational control in 1966. management of the school, which by then boasted 741 pupils on roll, was handed over to the government of the day. The aim of the school back then, which was birthed through the courageous venture of the British Guiana Mission of the Canadian Presbyterian Church. Dr. Singh recalled, was to prepare boys for the important roles in life: which were to seek after truth and righteousness. and build character worthy of emulation by others. Today the school is one of the foremost in East Berbice-Corentyne. which has 17 secondary schools, in that it is amongst the three that have attained the status of 'A' Grade. BEST OF THE BEST It has also been labelled the best secondary school in the region following the June 2016 CSEC examinations, and amongst the leading secondary schools as a result of the pass rate. Two of its

students were listed as being amongst the country's top performers. Berbice High School was founded with the express purpose of preparing students for life. It has produced Guyanese in all walks of life, among them diplomats, engineers, lawyers, doctors, educators and sportsmen. The school has committed itself to high moral standards. and the embracing of school values is emphasised in the building of character. Amongst distinguished guests at yesterday's ceremony were Ministers Carl Greenidge. Dr Rupert Roopnaraine. Nicollette Henry and Amna Ally; Regional Chairman David Armogan; Member of Parliament Mr. Charrandas Persaud; Mr Norman Semple from the Class of 1942; Dr Grantley Waldron. and members of the centenary committee; Alumni of Berbice High School. Regional Education Officer Ms Volika Jaikishun; and Deputy Mayor Ms Winifred Haywood. A message was read from Guyanese diplomat Dr Shirdath Ramphal.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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m By Ravin Singh The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Wednesday said it was probing reports that the country's Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr Shamir Ally, is a convicted felon. "I have seen one of the publications and we are investigating and trying to establish the veracity in determining the seriousness of the convichon." Carl Greenidge. Minister of Foreign Affairs told reporters. He said that that when the inveshgahon is completed, a report would be made to Cabinet. The Kaieteur News has reported that Ally was convicted on March 4, 2003 by United States District Court Judge, Michael M. Baylson, for dissemination of false financial information by Aerodyne Communications, Inc. ("Acrodvne") in press releases and Commission filings in 1998,1999 and 2000. The newspaper went on to claim that the diplomat was charged jointly with tw o others and was fined US$10,000. "The Securities Exchange Commission alleged that Mancuso (Aerodyne's former CEO and president). Lanchoney (Aerodyne's former Chief Financial Officer), and Ally (Aerodyne's former controller) were aware of numerous and significant problems with Aerodyne's accounhng controls, but failed to assure that Aerodyne's financial transactions were accurately recorded. The Commission claimed that, as a result of the achons of Mancuso. Lanchoney and Ally. Aerodyne engaged in inaccu-

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Ambassador to Kuwait Shamir Ally rate and improper cost accounting and revenue recognition" Kaieteur news reported. It was also alleged that the ambassador, "directed that unsupported journal entries be made to the cost of sales

workers

THE National Leprosy Control Programme with technical support from the Pan-America Health Organisation (PAHO) on Wednesday launched a training programme to develop the capacities of health care workers to detect, treat and manage leprosy. While the five-day workshop is attracting health care workers from Region Four, the primary focus will be on those operating in Regions One. Seven. Eight and Nine. Head of the National Leprosy Control Programme. Dr. Heather Morris-Wilson will be assisted by US Occupational Therapist Linda Lehman and Leprologist Dr. Jaison Barreto of Brazil during the facilitation of the workshop. Addressing key facilitators and beneficiaries of the programme at The Palms Geriatric Home. Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton said the capacity building workshop will boost the national programme. He explained that as a result of the programme, the 20 participants will be better positioned to detect, treat and manage cases of leprosy, and also prevent and or minimize impairments. While Guyana has long achieved the elimination of leprosy as a public health threat on a national level. Minister Norton said the fight continues to have the disease eliminated at a sub-national level. "Although the country sees a small number of cases each year, there is no room for complacency and that is a fact." he emphasised. PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, who was also present at the launching, pointed out that over the last two decades, Guyana has been reporting approximately 31 new cases annually - thereby reaching the target of leprosy elimination which is less than 1 per 10,000. However. Dr. Adu-Krow noted that the sub-national elimination of Leprosy or the Hansen's disease is still to be achieved as the leprosy control activities are not systematically implemented in the hinterland regions. As such, he said the workshop will focus on clinical and lab diagnosis of leprosy, assessment of disability and diagnosis, leprosy prevention and management and promotion of self-care. "As a result of this training, the leprosy programme will extend its coverage to a national level by facilitating early detection of signs and symptoms of leprosy in all regions, also with other specialists screening households and reducing stigma and discrimination," Dr. Adu-Krow

trained

and inventory accounts to bring Aerodyne's financial statements in line with the gross margin percentage he had estimated for the period. The Commission claimed that Mancuso approved these fraudulent adjustments for the first quarter of 2000." Minister Greenidge told the media that "due diligence was exercised" during the period leading up to Ally's appointment. He noted though that sometimes, due to the size and complexity of the United States, where Dr. Ally lived, it is difficult to get answers upon request. "... something may happen in one part [of the US] and you can't approach the US and get answers. You have to go to the right courts and the right states." he said. Further Minister Greenidge pointed out that Dr. Ali has also served on a number of boards and bodies in Guyana ov2er the years. Earlier this year, the diplomat was made Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest). Despite this however, the Minister expressed his belief that the pool of ambassadors was the "best set" that the country could have put together for the work they are required to do. "I think we have, with experience and qualifications - the best set of ambassadors that you could put together for the work they are required to undertake. "Compared with the teams we've had over the years, they are very well placed to undertake the goals that we set out."

manage

said. Additionally, he noted that the Public Health Ministry will now align its national strategy to the current Global Leprosy Strategy 2016-2020. However, he said in order to achieve the objectives of the strategy the Ministry must boost its resources. Head of the National Leprosy Control Programme, in making her contribution, said the training is warranted to prevent undetected and untreated cases. Additionally, she said the programme will seek to create greater awareness. "People with leprosy have long been subjected to discrimination. There is a history of discarding people with leprosy on islands and being isolated on island sanatoriums in Japan." she posited. Morris-Wilson said patients and even other members of the public must remember that leprosy is curable, treatment is

lenrosy

free here in Guyana, and discriminating against people with the disease is wrong. Morris-Wilson, however, noted that with the advent of multidrag therapy in the 1980s, leprosy has become a curable disease. Since then, some 16 million people have been cured. Presently, there are less than 250.000 new cases of disease annually. "Guyana has also eliminated leprosy as a public health problem, the reduction of the prevalence to less than 1 case per 10.000 population, but this does not mean that we have to slacken our efforts in this regard." she noted. Nevertheless, she said with the finance provided the unit will continue to raise awareness of the disease. The capacity building workshop will come to an end on Friday when the 20 participants will return to their respective regions to execute that which was imparted to them. I ~»TA-

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Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton and PAHO Country Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow (in the center) sounded by the key facilitators and participants of the workshop

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

LAW

STUDENTS

HAIL

NEW

PACT

...But seek larger quota intake HWLS By Svetlana Marshall LOCAL law students, while pleased that 25 Guyanese would be able to have automatic access to the law school in Trinidad on an annual basis, say the agreement still leaves a large number of students out in the cold. On Saturday, the University of Guyana (UG). due to the intervention of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams, was successful in signing a collaborative agreement with the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Council of Legal Education (CLE) paving the way for the top 25 Guyanese Law Students to have automatic entry into the Hugh Wooding Law School. As news spread of the new agreement, students at the Department of Law breathed a signed of relief. In an interview with Guyana Chronicle on Monday. President of the University's Law Society Chevy Devonish said: "I join with each of the approximately 200 other law students currently enrolled in the Law Department's LLB Programme to laud this development. as well as the persons who made it possible. including the former and current Heads of the Department of Law. several members of UG's administration. and of comse. the Attorney General." He added: "The agreement accomplishes several things, the most important of these to my mind being a running agreement for the automatic entry of the top graduating LLB students into the Hugh Wooding Law School to undertake in pursuit of their Legal Education Certificate. In other words, the entry of the top 25 grad-

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President of UG's Law Society Chevy Devonish uating students of each year will no longer be admitted on an ad hoc basis." With the agreement signed after approximately three years of negotiation, he posited that the law students can now focus on securing the required grades and finances needed to gain a spot at the Hugh Wooding with ease. However, when the University of Guyana restarted classes two Mondays ago. 80 persons were reportedly listed as final year students. It means therefore that come next year, approximately 55 students would not be catered for under the agreement which attracts the same number of students as the old agreement. According to the President of the Law Society, the ideal situation would be one where every student, upon graduating from university with an LLB is allowed to matriculate into the Hugh Wooding Law School, once they are interested, and possess the necessary fees. But Devonish said he understands the situation at hand. "I understand that the team of persons who negotiated this agreement on behalf of Guyana indeed advocated for a higher number

Vice President of the Law Society Patrice Wishart of students to be admitted automatically, but that this suggestion was not accepted. Despite that reality. I am of the belief that Guyana should continue to advocate for additional space for our students...however, until such a time, we will work with what we have won." he said. Under the draft proposal. Guyana was hoping to not only gain automatic entry into the Hugh Wooding Law School for Guyanese students but also non-Guyanese graduates. But the new agreement does not cater for non-Guyanese law graduates - a situation Devonish said is most unfortunate. "I believe the entire student body supports an agreement that would see such students being availed the space that was proposed and more perhaps," he said. He is of the opinion too that there should be no distinction between national and non-nationals as pertains to the amount of students who can automatically enroll into the Hugh Wooding Law School. "I believe that the Council should give them the same treatment by virtue of the fact that they study here,"

Akesha Cave - a first year UG Law student

Kristal Abrams - Mrs. of Moot Court Guyana

he further opined. Akesha Cave - a first year UG law student said she is excited about the future, knowing that the University and by extension the Government of Guyana were able to secure spaces for the top 25 law students on an annual basis. "We must applaud the key players," she posited, noting that students are now more than ever encouraged to excel in the programme. Vice-President of the University's Law Society. Patrice Wishart echoed similar sentiments. He told this newspaper, that students over the years were "on edge" due to the high level of uncertainty which had prevailed. "What the agreement does for us. is that it enables us to plan for the future effectively." But he too believes that the agreement should have included a larger number of students. "While we are grateful for the 25 students we are accustomed to. we were hoping for something more, we were hoping that at least more local students would have been admitted." Wishart said. The UGSS Vice-President was also disappointed that the parties involved were un-

able to arrive at a consensus which would have led to the inclusion of international law students studying here. He pointed out that there are international students at every level of the three year local law programme. "Foreign students pay cash up front, if we deter the foreign students because of the Hugh Wooding restrictions, chances are those funds will leave with them." he opined. But while Devonish and Wishart have expressed concerns over the number of students being admitted into the Trinidad law school under the agreement. Kristal Abrams - Mrs. of Moot Court Guyana said she is satisfied with the agreement, noting that the Attorney General should be applauded for a job well done. She told this newspaper that the new agreement caters for the same number of students under the old agreement, and allows for competiveness within the programme. "We are a doing Law. it has always been a very competitive course, and I believe that once you put your best foot fomard. and you exceed, then you would be rewarded as one of the 25 who would be given the

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opportunity to go to UWI." Abrams said. In her opinion, those who fall short in the process should seek other alternatives. "Everyone does not have to go and complete their degree at UWI. there are other avenues that can be taken, some people can decide to do their masters, some people can decide to go and work, so it is not like the end of the road because you have not seemed a spot among the 25. There are other things you can do." she said. Though the law students had differences in opinion, they all agreed on one thing: That a law school should be established in Guyana, contending that it would allow for a greater number of Guyanese students to vie for their CLE at a more economic cost. LAND FOR SALE HIGH VALVE TRANSPORTED LAND AND SMALL NEWLY BUILT HOUSE, GREATER DIAMOND, EBD$14M NEG. CALL 44203560-9441. TO LET 3-BEDR00NI FURNISHED APARTMENT FOR LEASE PREFERABLY FOR 3 MONTHS TO 1 YEAR PERFECT FOR TRAVELLERS, FOREIGN PROFESSIONALS, HOT WATER, TWO-CAR GARAGE SPACE, WIFI, AND PHONE, IN ALBERTTOWN 5-8 MINUTES' WALK TO NATIONAL PARK. IN THE USA CONTACT ORIN 917-558-4306 OR LESLIE 917-647-0749; GUYANA KEVIN 618-3449. ONE ROOM miPoF 611 CONCILIATION STREET, TUCVILLE, GEORGETOWN, GUYANA CALL +592 695-8785, +592680-2011, WHATSAPP +8613428675874 Email pogmiguyana@yahoo.com ODTDOOR RECREATIONAL SPACE 25FT.X18FT. FOR BBQ, LUNCH, BIRTHDAY PARTIES ETC. US$300, ACCOMMODATES 50 PERSONS 611 CONCILIATION STREET, TUCVILLE, GEORGETOWN, GUYANA CALL 592- 695-8785, 680-2011, WHATSAPP +8613428675874 email pogmiguyana@yahoo.com .

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

BACK

AIR

- NCN's Natasha Smith returned as news anchor - President sees no problems with pregnant news anchor - PM teiis CEO to issue "unqualified apology" By Ravin Singh NATASHA Smith, the anchor of the evening news programme of state broadcaster NCN, was back to normal duties Wednesday, with the broadcaster honouring a commitment to reinstate her. Despite claims by the chief executive officer. Lennox Cornette. that Ms Smith was not removed as the anchor. Ms Smith contended that that was indeed the case, and minutes of an August 8. 2016 meeting seemed to substantiate that claim. At a

meeting Tuesday with the Guyana Press Association (GPA). NCN undertook to have Ms Smith read the news once more. Ms Smith is only expected to anchor the news for a brief period before she proceeds on maternity leave. On Wednesday, the NCN anchor also won the backing of President David Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. ".. .you cannot have children without being pregnant. So we (have to) start to accept pregnancy as something very normal and don't regard it as

"...you cannot have children without being pregnant. So we (have to) start to accept pregnancy as something very normal and don Y regard it as a strange or unusual occurrence." President Granger a strange or unusual occurrence." the President told reporters when he was asked to comment on the controversy. "Pregnancy is normal; so let us celebrate it and be grateful that we have pregnant women. I don't mind if she is on the screen or on the radio

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- why not?" During a meeting on Tuesday with the CEO and other executives of NCN. the GPA called for the intervention of the Board of Directors of NCN. as well as the Office of the Prime Minister, to look into the operations of NCN. In a statement Wednesday evening, the Prime Minister, who has oversight of the information sector, said he had advised the CEO to tender an unqualified apology to Ms. Smith "for using her pregnancy as reason to remove her temporarily as News Anchor." Mr Nagamootoo stated that from information received and the explanations given by the CEO. he was "in no doubt that the removal of Ms. Smith was due to her state of pregnancy, and that the act is an attack on her as a woman and as a professional journalist." The Prime Minister said he could not condone any such act and disassociated himself from the action in this matter by NCN. "Our coalition government stands for full equality of our women and their right to work or association must not be denied or in any way trampled by their free choice to be married or to remain single, or to bear or not to bear children," he stated. Mr Nagamootoo applauded all those bodies and individuals who came fonvard in condemnation of this act of discrimination against Ms. Smith, whom he said has earned respect for her professional presentation of the NCN News. "It agonises me to get involved in what is an NCN management matter but. as a journalist and as a parent. I refuse to be silent on this occasion." the Prime Minister stated. In a statement issued after their meeting with NCN Tuesday, the GPA said it managed to secure a copy of the minutes of the August 8, 2016 management meeting

Natasha Smith on her way into the NCN studio Wednesday evening. (Adrian Narine photo) which pointed to a discussion on the production of a news montage. The minutes read thus: 'With regards to this, the CEO stated that the anchor and wardrobe should coincide with the montage. However, given the present condition of Ms. Natasha Smith, the CEO asked that a tight shot be done to remedy the view...." According to the GPA. following that discussion, the CEO recommended that Ms. Smith be replaced. Smith's removal from anchoring was highlighted after news surfaced about the suspension of the company's Sports editor. Jocelle Archibald-Hawke. who was accused of making a defamatory comment about one of her colleagues on social media. Archibald-Hawke expressed the view on her personal Facebook profile that she was "surrounded by idiots." after her colleague. Norman Gobin questioned the President on his television show 'The Public Interest.' about an augmented reality

game "Pokemon Go." The Sports editor was asked to apologise and did so. But she was suspended because the apology was not to the liking of her colleague. The GPA insisted that the suspension should be rescinded because NCN does not have a social media policy from which it can institute disciplinary action. Meanwhile, a delegation from the Ministry of Social Protection also met a management team from NCN on Wednesday to discuss employment relations pertaining to the two staff. The Ministry's team included Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence. Minister within the Ministry Keith Scott. Chief Labour Officer. Mr. Charles Ogle and Consultant Francis Carryl. Among those representing NCN were its CEO Lennox Cornette. Programme Manager Ron Robinson and Tishikta De Costa, the Human Resource Manager. The Ministry did not say what the outcome of the meeting was.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

Dutch

students

present

Granger

against final

report

rails

PPP's

city's 'malicious'

drainage

infrastructure

A GROUP of Dutch students from Delft University of Technology on Wednesday presented the final report of Project Georgetown Drainage to the Ministries of Agriculture and Public Infrastructure. Over the last seven weeks, the seven-member Dutch Risk Reduction (DRR) team of Masters students from the Netherlands University developed a computerised (hydraulic) model for drainage in parts of Georgetown to help predict the vulnerability of certain areas during rainfall. In delivering the presentation before Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastmctme. Annette Ferguson and Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture. George Jervis. the Team Leader Joost Remmers explained that South Ruimveldt. Georgetown, was identified as the catchment area with attention placed on the local drainage system, primary channels, and outfall stractures such as kokers. In addition to the hydraulic model, the group, in their report. presented a number of reports and manuals. Additionally, the group of Dutch students developed several maps and tools applicable to the local system. "With this research in the future, the Guyanese stakeholders should be able to make knowledge-based decisions to make a transition from experienced-based management of the system to knowledge-based decision-making." he explained to reporters. Remmers noted that the project would not have been possible without the support of the National Task Force, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA). the Public Infrastmcture Ministry, the Mayor and City Council and the University of Guyana. He also credited the support from the Delft University of Technology, the Dutch Embassy in Suriname. the 2015 Dutch Risk Reduction team and CDR International. Honorary Dutch Consulate to Guyana. Ben ter Welle, said now that the study has been completed, it is now up to Government to invest in the project that would eventually result in an improved drainage netw ork in the city known to be prone to flooding. In delivering brief remarks in the boardroom of the Ministry of Agriculture where the presentation was made. Minister

Ferguson said the Government of Guyana is indeed thankful for the excellent work put out by the students and noted that the report will be fully utilised. "I can assure you that the Government will not allow for this report to be placed on a shelf or a desk and to accumulate dust amongst other things, but we will use the report and we will ensure that the recommendations put forward...will be effectively used." Minister Ferguson said. Head of the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Guyana. Maxwell Jackson, in delivering brief remarks, said the university stands ready to further develop the project initiated by the Dutch. "The University of Guyana, being the primary academic institution of Guyana, is going to pursue and continue that work." he emphasised. Already, he said students of the Department of Civil Engineering have been identified to conduct studies in areas affected by flooding. "As we speak. I have already identified some students to look at the outfall at Kitty, so the sub-catchment in the Ayanganna area... our students will be examining that." Sherod Duncan. Deputy Mayor of the City of Georgetown and Dr Sewnauth Punalall. Head of the National Task Force Secretariat were among other officials present during delivery of the presentation. In November. 2015. Head of the Dutch Risk Reduction (DRR) Team Rob Steijn had told the Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder that said that the poor drainage system in the capital city must be tackled from the planning stage right up to the enforcement of legislation. Steijn, at the time, was presenting the minister with a menu of recommendations that flowed from a careful assessment of Guyana's drainage system. Steijn. a social scientist, said Guyana needs to upgrade its drainage network on both technical and managerial levels. He confidently emphasised the need for an integrated approach to be taken. Guyana's water system is in dire need of attention, he had said, noting that the government's predictability of water issues must be improved. As a short-term solution, Steijn said, small-scale dredging can be done.

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Team Leader Joost Remmers makes a presentation on Project Georgetown Drainage in the boardroom of the Agriculture Ministry

comments ...on Indigenous peoples' representation PRESIDENT David Granger has strongly repudiated comments which suggest that the Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock, has no power in government. The President's contention of the comment being "malicious" was expressed at the launch of Amerindian Heritage Month, which was held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre on September 1. In delivering the feature address to hundreds of Indigenous peoples. President Granger underscored the need for strong systems of governance in indigenous communities, given their remoteness. "Indigenous communities are remote and consist of small settlements. Management of 212 communities is compounded by development issues. Indigenous communities need strong structures of government. But because of small numbers and great distances, it is often difficult to give them the quality of governance they need." he said. The President went on to point out that several institutions are there to provide support to these communities, including the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, the National Toshaos Council (NTC) and several Indigenous organisations. "It is malicious for anyone to tell the Toshaos that the Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs has no power and that indigenous affairs of this country are directed by Dr David Hinds and Mr. Eric Phillips. It is malicious." he said. He went on to explain that because its work is more complicated than any other ministry, the Indigenous Affairs Ministry needs the support of other agencies to fulfil its mandate.

And although he did not say who this opposition member was. the Head-ofState said that people who know better should not try to divide communities with such "arrant lies." Two weeks ago. opposition Member of Parliament and former Minister of Amerindian Affairs. Pauline Sukhai. rejected a

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President David Granger proposition by the President to establish an Indigenous Peoples' Authority. The Head-of-State said that the authority would overlook the implementation of policies emerging from the National Toshaos Conference, and policies and programmes authorised by Cabinet and the National Assembly. However, following the President's announcement of this idea, Sukhai contended that it was an attempt to usurp the power of both the National Toshaos Council (NTC) and the ministry. Just recently, Phillips congratulated the government on accelerating the land-titling programme for Indigenous Guyanese. Under the auspices of the UNDP and using Norway funds, he said, this exercise is scheduled to be completed by October this year.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

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ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Complete those hobbies you started a long time ago. Your changing attitudes may be causing concern for your partner. If you can't trust someone, question the connection. Patience will be of utmost importance. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Saturday. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Don't let your mate stop you from attending an event that could be most important. Don't prejudge. You may get drawn into a personal situation that will not be to your liking. Focus your efforts on details, and keep to yourself in order to finish your work. You need a break from your daily routine. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Saturday. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Concern yourself with legal matters and formulating contracts rather than finalizing your objectives. You need to lie back and enjoy a little rest. Your ideas are good and career moves can be realized. Secret affairs will only lead to heartache. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Monday CANCER (June 22-July 22) You can enjoy short trips. Difficulties with your mate may lead to isolation. You may find acquaintances being deceptive. Make changes around your house and plan to do some entertaining. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Wednesday. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your own small business on the side sounds pretty lucrative. You will have to help family members sort out unfortunate difficulties. You'll only hurt your lover if you don't. Your temper could be short if someone criticizes your efforts. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Thursday. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Extravagance will be a problem. You must not let others talk you into doing things that will probably limit you financially at a later date. You can benefit financially if you put money or maintenance into your living quarters. Problems with fire, gas, or oil may cause disruptions and annoyances. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Tuesday. LIBRA (Sept 24 -Oct 23) You can work in conjunction with those in the know in order to get to the bottom of any pending issue. Don't let any money slip through your fingers this month. You can make money but not through harebrained schemes or gambling. You will be prone to carelessness that could result in accidents. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Saturday. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Take time to catch up on overdue correspondence. Get busy. Sooner or later your partner will have had enough. Change will be required to make your life more harmonious. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) If you have treated them equitably, you might be able to count on their loyalty. This is a great day to start that new health regimen you've been talking about. Make plans to do something special with the one you love. Do not confront situations unless you are sure you have a good understanding of the dilemma. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Wednesday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You have been going through a period of change that has caused problems for you with your loved ones. It's time to let loose. Recognition can be yours if you present your ideas and stand behind your behefs. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Monday. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Get out and rub shoulders with people in high positions if possible. Losses are likely if you have left your financial affairs in other people's hands. Don't give out any personal information that you don't want spread around. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Thursday.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Your persuasive nature will win the heart of someone you've had your eye on. Don't get involved in expensive entertainment that involves gambling. Take time to deal with authority figures or government agencies. You are in a high cycle where travel, education, and creative endeavors are concerned. Your luckiest events next week will occur on a Thursday

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

pubic eyes the key issues of the day. She did start by initially dismissing him and calling him a "one issue" candidate. That backfired and she quickly regained her footing and adopted many of his campaign issues, repackaging them as her own in a way that reminded people of her husband and his "triangulation strategy" when dealing with the Republican Congress when he was in office. Donald Trump, perhaps the Republican candidate with the most amount of political and other baggage in history, secured his party's nomination by insulting, name-calling, using incoherent grandiose statements and alienating segments of the American public. Fundraising is now a major challenge for him as well as building a national "ground game" that could compete with the Clinton Machine. Winging it and insulting people worked for him in the Republican Primary but the general election is a horse of a different color. And while he and his party are still pretty confused as to how exactly Flillary Clinton got to where she is without any particular soaring oratory or animal charisma that is typical of national male politicians, they underestimated to their political detriment. So now Trump faces an experienced, well-organized, and coordinated Clinton Machine that is really a political juggernaut. She comes at him with an intact Black voting base and an immigrant base that's supporting her in the 90 percentile. As Bernie Sanders joins the Clinton Machine, Donald Trump will now face that energy-laden segment of the Obama Coalition that he's all but written off. If you ever doubt the level of organization of the Clinton Campaign, look no further than her "foreign policy" speech that took a sledgehammer to Trump and then finished the job with a sharp scalpel. Trump, out of his league and caught with his pants down, reacted by name calling and ridiculous accusations in a disjointed, incoherent harangue with Hitler's favorite military music as the backdrop. What is amazing about Hillary Clinton's achievement and political strategy is that she and her campaign know both her weaknesses and strengths. I do not think that she's a great campaigner and she does not give particularly great speeches. She does not inspire people like Barack Obama or her husband Bill can. Both are excellent orators and can bring you to tears with their soaring rhetoric. That's not Hillary Clinton. Here's how she put it in her own words: "I am not a natural

politician, in case you haven't noticed, like my husband or President Obama." This year the presidential campaign has been dominated by much shouting and angry outbursts, especially by "the boys." Donald Trump's supporters are now accustomed and used to his yelling, bit****g, and screeching. But just let Hillary Clinton raise her voice and she's described in the newspapers, especially those that lean Republican, her detractors in the corporate mainstream media, as shrill and loud. That in and of itself underscores the fact that American politics is still "a man's world" and that it is all right for men to "speak over" women in politics.

reach out and touch many people in America's diverse communities. Bemie Sanders came to this party as an inexperienced presidential first-time candidate while Hillary was an old hand at it. No one doubts that he ran a great race and that his achievement is important. While he and his team had to leam on the fly; she and her team knew what to do. And in politics, campaigns are not lost because of bad candidates, though that's a contributing factor, but by poor campaign organization. In this, Bemie Sanders's campaign was at a distinct disadvantage; he did not fully understand the system while she was up and running from jump street.

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President Barack Obama greets presidential candidate Hilary Clinton. We saw that in the Republican primary - how Donald Trump treated Megan Kelly of Fox 5 and Carly Fiorina, a former Republican presidential candidate. If Hillary so much as raises her voice she's considered to be a b*tch with the connotation that her assertiveness is "abrasive, haughty and manshaming." Therein lies the tight rope that she has to walk as a national politician. As her campaign unfolded, many balked at a coronation in the Democratic Party and accused Hillary Clinton of using her husband's influence to lock up the endorsement of the socalled super delegates. BOTH Trump and Sanders railed against a system that they claimed was rigged. She had to overcome these objections by proving that her dominance in the primary was the result of a welloiled ground game and her ability to

So her reaching out to Democratic congressional leaders and party stalwarts early in the game to get commitments from them was shrewd political calculus on her part and she used this to block Sander's insurgency. She understood that in the end presidential elections are a numbers game. After all, he was dominating the national narrative, he was raising more money, gave far better speeches, and he was bringing the energy to the campaign. So his supporters concluded on the basis of this that the system was rigged against them. In retrospect Hillary Clinton won the Democratic Primary by doing what she does far better than any politician - male or female --in America today. She is disciplined, focused and has the patience and work ethic to stick to the hard grind of retail politics. In plain English? She spent the time necessary

to build and cultivate relationships, both within the Democratic Party and the general populace. Before the first vote was cast she had visited Black churches across the nation and set up her political campaign headquarters in New York City's Blackest borough â€” Brooklyn. This borough is home to over 800,000 registered Democratic voters and she demonstrated that just because New York City is a "safe bet" she was not taking its voters for granted â€” she respected them and cared about their issues. Finally, she used a female strategy in politics that worked for her. Unlike male politicians, she built coalitions and brought people together at the local community levels, setting up her formidable national machine one Congressional District at a time. Where there were problems she worked to find common ground and empowered her surrogates to take action in her name. This built trust where that was needed. The upshot and result? 208 members of Congress endorsed her. Retail politics is a real tough and hard grind. And, as I said, she is better than most American politicians at this. It's her strength and her campaign knew it. She never was going to win the nomination by great oratory or charisma. The Sanders campaign with all of the things going for it could not come up with an answer to that kind of politicking. I argue that this requires singular focus and an ability to learn from mistakes and adapt quickly to issues on the ground. I know nobody who is better at this than Hillary Clinton. Remember now, she served as a United States senator from New York in an organization that was still populated by men who sought to impeach her husband and who humiliated her when she pushed for universal healthcare reform? This is an exciting time in American politics. At last we have a female candidate who has a very good chance of becoming the first woman president of the United States running in a process that has always been set up to showcase male attributes. It's time to recognize that Hillary Clinton is a really formidable politician. America has had 56 presidential contests and 33 of them were held before women got the right to vote. I believe that the glass ceiling has been shattered back to back - America's first female presidential nominee and perhaps its first female president, succeeding this nation's first Black president. And you wonder why Republicans are so ticked off?

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

Missing law books...

not

ruling

out

criminal

against former PS, ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams has said that he is not ruling out filing criminal proceedings against former Permanent Secretary Indira Anandjit, former AG Anil Nandlall and former President Donald Ramotar over the disappearance of a set of law books and computer parts from the ministry. Williams told the Guyana Chronicle recently that Anandjit whose contract was not renewed as permanent secretary for the ministry could be charged with conspiracy to commit fraud, malfeasance in public office as well as embezzlement. He said the former AG and Ramotar could also be charged for malfeasance in public office as well as conspiracy to commit fraud. The ministry in a statement on Sunday had said that the non-renewal of the contract of Anandjit was a result of questionable practices. The statement came days after Anandjit had raised several issues regarding the non-renewal of her contract. Anandjit

had decried the manner in which her contract was not renewed. In a letter to the press, Anandjit said she was informed of the non-renewal of her contract by virtue of a newspaper article carried by the Stabroek News on August 31. She was sent on 52 days administrative leave by Williams to facilitate an investigation by the Auditor General into the disappearance of approximately $2.5M worth of Commonwealth law books and computer parts costing almost the same amount from the ministry. It is believed that the law books went missing between 2013 and 2015. But Anandjit maintained that the books have not disappeared and moreover, the Minister of Legal Affairs is more than aware of where the books were located. "What is disturbing is that Minister Williams feigned ignorance of these books when at a meeting he was told about them. It was even followed up with other discussions on procurement of books for the ministry. She noted too that while she had approved

payment for the books, they were used by former Attorney General Nandlall and were kept in the chambers. However, the ministry in response said one day after the former permanent secretary proceeded on annual leave, "incriminating documents" were taken to Minister Williams. According to the statement, the former permanent secretary was accused of oppressing, marginalising and discriminating against stalf of the ministry. 'The stalf advised the newly appointed minister of the Public Service procedures which required the matter and documents being sent to the Auditor General." The ministry said too that documents have shown that Anandj it had approved the payment of over $2.5M for Commonwealth Law Reports which went missing along with over $2M in computer parts, "...but those purchases could not be found as having been received in any of the records of the ministry," the statement added. The Auditor General was asked to investigate that matter and months after that investiga-

Hinterland

women INDIGENOUS women in the village of Wiruni, Upper Berbice River, Region 10, are gravitating towards fields that men traditionally have dominated. This is being facilitated through the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) programme being rolled out in the village. During an interview with the Government In-

into

formation Agency (GINA), Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples" Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe noted that women are pushing themselves to accumulate knowledge in electrical engineering and auto mechanics. Minister Garrido-Lowe explained that many of the males are gravitating to the mining field because it is a lot more profitable. How-

Nandlall,

chnrges

Ramotar

Indira Anandjit, former PS at Ministry of Legal Affairs tion purportedly began, the ministry received a report from the Auditor GeneraTs office. That report was challenged by virtue of the Audit Act. "The Report could be interpreted to mean that former President Donald Ramotar and former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, conspired to spend taxpayers" money in the custody of the ministry to purchase the law books

youth

for NandlalTs benefit," the statement added. In May, Williams had said that Auditor General Deodat Sharma informed him of a secret arrangement between former President Donald Ramotar and former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall relative to the missing law books. According to a document written by Ramotar and addressed to the Auditor General, and seen by Williams, the former

scheme

leads

non-traditional

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples'Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe

ever, the minister stated, "I am happy that the girls stayed and are taking the opportunity." Women who are taking up those non-traditional skills will better cater for their families while the men are away, the minister said. "The family has a chance to live at a certain standard, because their mother will be able to work and bring an income into

President admitted to having a private arrangement with Nandlall to spend money voted for under the Ministry of Legal Affairs to acquire the law books for his [NandlalTs] private use. "These books would have been voted for in the budget of the ministry, but they would not have been within the curtilage of the ministry...not in the library and could not be found anywhere," said Minister Williams. The ministry said the former permanent secretary had written Minister of State Joseph Harmon, indicating that she did not wish to return to the Ministry of Legal Affairs, but would like to be transferred to another ministry. "She never sought to return to the Ministry of Legal Affairs and for good reason; she was afraid of being charged for a criminal offence." The ministry also called on the former permanent secretary "to tell the nation whether she left the Ministry of Tourism, GECOM and the NCN under similar circumstances."

fields

the home with the skills she is getting," the minister explained. The minister said that those women can use the skills required to even become entrepreneurs. Under the HEYS programme, youths are being trained and certified in areas of garment construction, carpentry, joinery, tourism, auto mechanics and entrepreneurship. They are also

taught Mathematics and English Language. The Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) programme began in October 2015 and is currently ongoing in 112 hinterland communities. It was developed to positively contribute to improve the lifestyles and living standards for hinterland youth and young adults. (GINA)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 9, 2016

free

loans

...Gov't introduces new requirements for UG students By Svetlana Marshall IN RESPONSE to the more than $8B owed to the University of Guyana Student Loan Agency, the Finance Ministry has strengthened the system with the primary objective of increasing the repayment rate. During a visit to the Student Loan Agency at the Turkeyen Campus on Monday. Guyana Chronicle, upon request, was presented with a copy of the application form which included a long list of requirements for both the borrower and their guarantor. According to that list, first time loan applicants are not only required to submit the traditional information such as Letter of Acceptance. Student Registration Invoice. Birth Certificate and proof of address, but their Guyana Passport. Bank Standing Order and Job Letter. Like the applicants, guarantors are mandated to provide the agency with evidence of employment, their passport. TIN Certificate and a Liability Statement and or Credit Reports from the Credit Bureau. For some students, the requirements are too much to ask for. Sabita Stephenson a Third Year Environmental Science student said she is frustrated with the process. "1 think, it is a bit too much." Stephenson told Guyana Chronicle while on Campus on Monday.

She opined that while some applicants may be willing to provide the required documents, the guarantors may find it difficult. "It is ridiculous, it is too much it is just too much...Some of the guarantors ain't able with the ran around, so many of them don't want to do it anymore." she posited. Her colleague Athena Lytle echoed similar sentiments while questioning the need to have guarantors provide their passport information. TIN Certificate and Liability Statement. "It is too much to ask for. they are asking for so much information, some of them are irrelevant." Lytle contended. However, second year Computer Science student Noel Lord, begged to differ. According to Lord, the new requirements will keep beneficiaries of the loans in check. "I don't mind because I do have to pay it back, it is more secure this way... I think it is reasonable." he said. TOO HARSH A leading Private Sector official told Guyana Chronicle that the measures are too harsh, noting too that the agency should not lose sight of its primary function, which is to assist persons who are unable to pay for their tertiary education. "I don't want to say that it is draconian but it is a little too much," the

The Student Loan Facility

STUDENT LOAN AGENCY J - 3 W;iM: f.. •:

official who asked not to be named said. While acknowledging that the agency in the past was mismanaged, resulting in a poor repayment rate, the official said that the new measures or requirements may result in many students being unable to attend the university. "Oh gosh this is not a business loan you are applying for. this is a student loan. I don't think guarantors would want to follow up with such a procedure." the official said. At the commercial banks, applicants, the official pointed out. are asked to complete a credit evaluation form, which addresses four key things: one's earning, assets, expenses and ability to repay the bank. "The agency must not forget its social responsibility." the official reiterated. The student loan agency. which is responsible for managing a revolving fund.

has made available to students approximately 26.239 loans amounting to $9.5B to assist students in paying their tuition fees; but as of May 2016. statistics show, repayment had amounted to only $L75B. with installments due amounting to $5.7B. Head of the Student Loan Agency. Rawle Sue-Ho had

told reporters that June and July have yielded much repayment since the agency began its public awareness campaign. He said there has been a spike in the repayment of loans. "In June, we had over 100 per cent increase from the previous months' collections... Students have been

coming in to make payments on old loans, with some paying off... There was a continuation of the trend in July." he said. A recently conducted forensic audit of the agency revealed that from 1994 to May 2015, some 17,567 or 69.4 per cent of borrowers were deemed delinquent.

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CHRONICLE

r-JtwsPA^t!r

UMTTED i

guyanachronicle.com

New York Edition

dlimilnili By Stephan Sookram in Barbados (compliments of Jiffy Lubes, Rent-a-Tent, A&R Jiwanram, Hand-in-Hand, John Fernandes Limited, Best Buy Auto) ELLIOT and Matthew Vieira ruled the super stock class of the recently concluded Seaboard Marine Caribbean Motor Racing Championships in Barbados. Starting on pole in the first super stock race. Elliot got off to a bad start, allowing Canada-based Barbadian representative Kevin Graham to take the lead. He retained the lead two laps after capitalising on a minor error by his opponent. However, during that battle. Stephen Vieira. who had failed to qualify earlier, made his way from the back of the pack and took advantage of both Elliot and Graham to slide by into first place. Stephen finished the race in first place but was disqualified by race officials for passing under a yellow flag - a flag which he and other riders say they had not seen but was on

iuiiw

ritKi

track, according to said officials, thus gifting Elliot the win. his cousin Matthew second and Graham third. Race two saw Stephen again at the back of the pack, riding his way up the standings before he fell on the first comer, giving Elliot his second win of the day. Matthew second and Barbados Terrance Ollivierre third. The last super stock event of the day. however, saw Stephen's bad weekend continue with him falling again, at the same comer on lap tw o while one lap later. Elliot ended up in the same comer at the exact same spot. However, Matthew was able to maintain his composure throughout the race, navigating the later part of the race with relative ease to take the chequered flag and his third podium of the day. On the car end of things. Shan Sejattan's weekend was up and down with him not being allowed out in the first Group two race after being adjudged by race officials to have arrived at the pit exit late. Marc Gill (Trinidad). Kenrick Husbands (Barbados) and Mark Thompson (Barbados) were the top

SI ■>

finishers. He opted to ran his car in the Group three class alongside Nazim Gafoor and finished fifth on the grid. Paul Vieira (Trinidad). Ronald Wortman (Trinidad) and Steve King (Barbados) finishing in the top three spots. On the second Group two outing, Shan finished a modest fourth behind Thompson, Gill and Husbands in that order. The final Group two race of the day, however, saw car troubles plague his Honda Civic with him only completing three laps. Meanwhile in Group three race one. Nazim Gafoor finished sixth on the grid before upping his performance to finish third in the second race behind Kurt Thompson and Paul Vieira respectively. The final race saw a recurring gearbox problem put him out with just four of the six scheduled laps completed. Gafoor also took his car to the Group four two-wheel drive class where he finished fifth in the first and second races. The team returned home vesterdav.

Atf « Tnnii .com Tuherc I Elliot Vieira leads the pack in during the first bike race in Bushy park. (Gerrard Willson Photography)

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