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WEEKENDING

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SEPTEMBER 16 2016

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Remembering

Dancer

Phillip

September 8, 2016, was the thirtieth anniversary of the death of the great Guyanese Dancer, Phillip McClintock, MS. Since his passing on September 8, 1986, the excitement of the Kathak dance, of which he was a master, has not been quite the same, here in Guyana. That is so, not only because of Phillip's grand command of this particular Indian dance, but also because at that same period, there was another great Kathak dancer, the late Gora Singh. The two young dancers brought not a rivalry, but a fusion to the stage which they shared so many times, as they danced to very appreciative audiences. For those who thronged the National least all of his many adoring fans thought Cultural Centre to enjoy Phillip and Gora so. on stage, not competing with each other, but The thing about Phillip McClintock, embellishing the exciting Indian dances, eswas that he was of African heritage, yet he pecially the KATHAK, as they twirled and dominated the dance stage of Guyana for by FRANCIS QUAMINA FARRIER twirled and twirled, and members of the audience counted loudly, and applauded and cheered. It was dance at its brilliant best, embellished with fantastic costumes and enrapturing Indian melodies. Somehow, although Gora Singh was really good and received much admiration for his dancing abilities, Phillip somehow, almost always stole the show. He was as good as, and arguably, better than Gora; at

INITIATIVE

over a decade in the 1970s and into the mid1980s. He was so much admired that as a young dancer of African Heritage, and talented to perform such a wide range of international dances, especially the Indian dances; the KATHAK, in particular; he was at the very top of his game. As the fame of Phillip McClintock grew, over a relative short period, he was invited by the Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, to go to India and learn the his-

FOR GUYANESE persons of Guyanese descent back home to explore potential investment opportunities in small and medium size business ventures. The visit is hoped to help build mutual confidence, while establishing a business network that opens opportunities for new and creative entrepreneurial initiatives that would assist in business development and job creation, specifically in low-income communities across the country. Candidates will have to sign up before September 30. They must have business experiences with some form of achievement. They

McCuntock.

came fluent in the language.

tory and other finer points of Indian Dance. Phillip accepted, and was given special leave from his position as an Account's Clerk at the Ministry of Home Affairs. During the four years he studied in India, Phillip McClintock did Guyana proud, performing at many shows in that country, as he specialized in the Kathak. He also be-

On his way back to Guyana, Phillip spent a short period in London, England. There he was invited by fellow Guyanese, Henry Muttoo, who was studying theatre there, to perform at the popular Kiskadee Club. It was a cultural shock for the audience, most of whom were of Caribbean heritage, to see a young man of African Heritage, so talented in the Indian dance. They wanted him to spend a longer time in London and do more shows. Phillip McClintock returned to Guyana, having received many accolades, and was as humble as ever. He received the National Award of the Medal of Service, among others. Sadly, his life was rather short; he died at age thirty three. However, for those who saw and can remember Phillip McClintock on stage at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown, and at other venues around the country, will no doubt, still remember the excellence of this African Guyanese who dominated the Indian Dance stage, over thirty years ago. 1 have not been able to trace any film or video of Phillip dancing, but hope that there is such somewhere available.

DIASPORA CLOSES MONTH END must possess the potential to create employ- didates must be creative and aimed to impact GUYANESE living abroad and are interment and generate income within low earning economic and social development through inested in the International Organization communities. Candidates are also accepted on creasing employment for nationals in Guyana. Migration (IOM) initiative to take the the ability of being able to offset other visiting Each interested candidate must be a diaspora members of the Diaspora back home for costs that might not be covered by the IOM. entrepreneur, who is a citizen or legal resident investment purposes have until the end of Additionally, candidates are required to residing outside of Guyana. Additionally, canthis month to sign up. The Guyanese govsubmit documents such as a motivational letter didates must have an innovative idea on how to ernment, along with the international indetailing their experiences, key business expand a business or introduce new goals or tergovernmental agency, IOM has invited achievements and key interest areas for the visit services to local communities. entrepreneurs from the Guyanese Diasbefore the September 30. They must provide Candidates are also expected to have the pora to be part of its "Go See Visits 2016" evidence of their business registration. drive, conviction, and overall professional acuinitiative which kicks off in November. It was noted that the business ideas by can- men to establish a potential business that can The aim of the project is to get business increase employment opportunities in Guyana. A requirement which will be taken into consideration also, will be the candidate's having startup capital or the proven ability to interact with ' potential investors and business advisors to start a business. They include also their ability to Designed by Cold Poloce off-set costs associated with the Guyana trip. 122-18 Liberty Ave. Richmond Hill, NY 11419 GOLD At the end of the visit, it is said that candiPhone : 718-835-4298 dates will be invited to participate in focused Fax:718-835-3108 PALACE JEWELRY group discussions and one-on-one interviews, to share on the overall usefulness of the visit and to establish individual plans for follow-up Promotional Price for each Bracelet is $120.00 support for the setting up of businesses. The IOM says it will provide round-trip air tickets to the maximum of US$1,100 to selected candidates; while a one-time stipend of VÂť US$370 will be provided to support related y. costs, technical assistance for travel, introduca w. tory meetings, and workshops with stakeholders in the country. "The selected candidates will be required to cover any other related costs not supported by IOM. The length of visits will vary, depending on the nature of engagement with investors or business partners." Go See Visits 2016 are supported through the IOM project "Effective and Sustainable Di> aspora Engagement for Development in the Caribbean", and are funded by the IOM DevelA 1 opment Fund. www.goldpalaceshop.com Persons interested in participating in "Go See Visits 2016 should register at http://caribdiaspora.org/

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

7The National effort necessary for Guyana's Sports Peter Haynes Column to achieve International success The Guyana Overseas Sports Council, based in New York, in its Mission Statement, declared that the body endeavors to develop a Sports Education program to support the development and improvement of sports, nationally and internationally. This would be done through specific programs in: Sports Coaching, Sports Management, Sports Medicine and Sports Research. The group plans to provide opportunities for exceptional athletes to realize their maximum potentials, through International scholarship programs and International events. This, at the moment is a clear plan which if successful, will erase Guyana's zero results to International events, such as the Olympics, the Commonwealth Games and the Central American and Caribbean Games. However, there is one important component missing in this plan, which is absolutely necessary for full achievement of the goals and objectives. Missing, is the plan for the development of the facilities in Guyana, to ensure that once the theory is laid out, there are facilities for the practical aspects to be developed. Unfortunately, this is an area which has been woefully neglected for decades. True, there is the Providence Stadium (used for cricket, soccer and a host of non-sports related activities), the Aquatic facility and the Leonora athletic stadium. The cricket stadium and the aquatic facilities are within relatively easy reach. The same cannot be said of the Leonora athletic stadium. Because of this, the use for regular training and competition questions the choice of the location.

not taken into consideration. This means that at a tremendous cost, this must be corrected. There was an infusion of millions of dollars to prepare the Sports Hall before approval was given for the staging of the Caribbean Basketball Confederation Under 16 tournament, primarily because maintenance was neglected for decades and the Sports Hall was at times not fit for use. Thankfully, the locker rooms were fitted with the necessary basics, such as toilets, showers and storage for personal property.

When CASH was built this was

mission a feasibility study be done to ascertain what structural adjustments are necessary and its cost. It is further proposed that the National Sports Commission assemble all sports associations, corporate Guyana and of course the Diaspora - which will include America, Canada, the U.K., the Caribbean and other countries to discuss and decide the way forward in raising the funds.

I am proposing that all the associations who use the Sports Hall take the lead in raising funds to make the Sports Hall a place of comfort for the players and spectators.

And secondly, the committee should consider getting Government's approval to sponsor a "Buy-A-Brick" project. This will involve the entire nation - schools, churches, service organizations - everybody. Offer for sale a symbolic brick at say G$ 1,000.00. Of

Firstly, it is suggested that the Ministry responsible for Sports, com-

CUFF A VDOtSOV SPORTS H ALL

The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall

The air conditioning of the building will be a "BIG" bill to be met but thinking BIG will allow Guyana to achieve 'big things.' Air conditioning was not part of the initial plan when the Hall was constructed. It would be unrealistic to expect the Government to undertake the project alone.

I A

However, there are numerous sports at which Guyana could compete at the International level which have been left wanting for adequate training and competition. True, there is the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall which accommodates Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Hockey and Boxing. As we saw earlier this year, because of the multi-purpose use of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Government had to construct a new floor. In the past, all these games were played at CASH which needed different markings to accommodate the hockey, and volleyball matches. It was learnt that at a significant cost, the FIBA games must have basketball markings only. In addition, there is a requirement that the Sports Hall must be ah- conditioned to fully comply with FIBA's regulations.

Sm.

course, there will be no restriction on the number of bricks an individual or company could purchase and using the embassies and consulates in the Diaspora and overseas organizations such as Guyana Overseas Sports Council — International, CASH would then become a complete Sports facility and one that all Guyanese would share in its ownership.. When the funds needed for CASH are realized, the project could be ongoing and the funds then channeled to Community Centers and school grounds. This way of 'thinking big' will help our country to become "big" in sports.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016 m m 1

wmm ■ The Zena Henry Column

is a

Guyanese

investment

t When we speak of the creative industry, we speak specifically of areas of artistic or inspired culture. It is the sphere of life where the human L

talent dominates and is fed by inner desire, will and expression. Whether we look into the area of visual arts,

i i

sports, music, clothing design or any other where personal creativity centers, this industry is the focus point. Guyana's creative industry has taken a beating for a very long time, and some say it deteriorated under the last regime, since the vision then seemed focused squarely on national infrastructural and economic advancement. This nonetheless, provides no excuse as to why citizens are not provided with the avenue to make a living however they choose, providing that their means are within the confines of the law. And while on the matter of law, it should he recognized that a creative industry cannot survive without legal protection. As it stands, more calls are going out from the new government for Guyanese to invest in their country through various industries. President David Granger has made it very clear that he is looking forward to a country of creators. He said that his government will put the avenues in place that would allow citizens to advance within their areas of choice. He has even noted, that while the government is interested in creating more jobs, it would be ideal to see more entrepreneurs, especially among

younger folks. The president has called on young people to be proactive and come up with ideas that will lessen their dependence on the state and private industries to create jobs for them. Earlier in the week, the president also outlined his vision for the sports sector, which is a potential human developer, revenue and endorsement avenue. The Head of State strongly believes that the country cannot think of sports as elite, when there is just one aquatic centre and one stadium that is of a level fitting for professionals within this industry. He said in order for the country to develop world class athletes, there must be a plan to start at the lower levels and move upward to Olympic grade athletes, he also said we need to begin in the schools and villages, and added that during his days as a school boy in the Upper Mazaruni, villages held sporting events that were not sponsored by the government and this created athletes in the hinterland region. While the president suggested that there should be national sports meets, he

: W-

Sonia Noel (right) and her Foundation for Creative Arts, is desperately trying to conjure up a thriving fashion and design industry in Guyana also insinuated the need for Guyanese at is not being accepted with the muchhome and abroad to examine the areas needed urgency it deserves. where they think they can make an impact. There are many Guyanese, particuThere are several donor agencies abroad larly young persons, who have related opoperated by Guyanese who whole-heart- portunities where foreigners, whether edly give back to their country; individu- Guyanese or other have proposed endorseals who have made it big overseas and ments for local musicians and even deothers who just keep an eye on Guyana's signers but are continuously discouraged needs and contribute whenever they can. by the lack of legal protection for their efOutside of sports, there are other forts . areas of personal skill that are just waiting Sonia Noel is one of the Guyanese to be explored, such as the music, clothing persons who has taken her work abroad to and arts industries. When talking about many big cities in the United States and these areas however, it must be recognized other places like London and Canada, and that there is little protection for the cre- has returned to Guyana to work extenative sector living in Guyana. This has al- sively with local designers to help them ways been an issue and locals are achieve the recognition they need and deconvinced that the enactment of copyright serve. and intellectual property rights legislation Eddy Grant a mega music star, with worldwide recognition has opted not to have his music establishment here in i \ Guyana. With Guyana lacking basic legBoston Shipping •rv islation to protect the creativity of its people, it's anyone's guess as to why this Guyanese has chosen to keep his business outside of Guyana. Inc. No one in their right mind would want to invest thousands and in some We Make Shipping Overseas as Easy as Shipping Next Door cases, millions of dollars to create a product anyone can easily get their hands on TO WE SHIP * and use without having to pay the creators GUYANA, JAMAICA BARRELS for its use or answer to the law for illegally obtaining it. It's amazing that 50 years TRINIDAD & TOBAGO BOXES after independence, such vital pieces of GRENADA, BARBADOS DOCUMENTS mm. legislation that are directly concerned with human development are still unavailable. ST. VINCENT LUGGAGE There is little to no respect for the ST. LUCIA, HAITI APPLIANCES creative types in Guyana, since promoters want to pay local musicians as little as & Other World Wide Destinations FURNITURE $5,000 and $10,000 for a stage appearance, but would easily pay a foreign artiste CONTAINERS FAST RELIABLE SERVICE millions of dollars for less than an hour on CARS stage. & REASONABLE RATES Guyana's creative industry is a Guyanese investment, whether local or within the Diaspora. Many Guyanese BOSTON SHIPPING ENTERPMSES. INC. overseas want Guyanese products, which 506 Decatur Street (Corner of Ralph Avc.) Brooklyn, NY 11233 include Guyanese made clothing, music and art. They should add their voices and support to assist those at home who are 718. 443.8400 Fax: 718. 443.8403 trying to make Guyana become an artistic nation. Licensed and Bonded as Required By The Federal Maritime Commission — For Your Protection

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

The Handel

Thiing<5

Bother

rhat

Andrews Column

Let

the

truth

known

These days — on radio, television, in classrooms and

about

Islam

ordinary discourse - it is popular to equate Islam with radical Islamic terrorism and to consider this

I I Ml

great religion with evil. Let's set the record straight. WHAT IS ISLAM? L. Susan Stebbing once observed that "definition is the basis of clear thinking." Before I could discuss Islam, I must first define the term. The word Islam (UJcwJ'f^ alIslam) is derived from the Arabic root "Salema", which translates to submission to the will of Allah (God) and obedience to His law. When one does this, one is in the State of Islam. BEGINNINGS OF ISLAM Islam started with revelations of Muhammad (Abu al-Qasim Muhammad ibn Abd Allah ibn Abd alMuttalib ibn Hashim). He was born 570, at Mecca, Arabia and died June

8, 632 at Medina. When he was 40, he started withdrawing periodically to a cave named Mount Hira, three miles north of Mecca, for contemplation and prayer. He used to have prophetic dreams and hear unseen voices. That same year, the archangel Gabriel appeared before him and revealed to him a verse from the Quran. The Angel said, "Read", upon which he replied, "I am unable to read." Then the angel pulled him close to him. This happened two more times, after which the angel commanded him to recite the following verses: Proclaim! in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher Who created — Created man, out of a clot of con-

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•i Five Pillars of Islam — MECCA gealed blood: scribes and recorded his revelations. Most Bountiful, -Who taught Shortly after his death, they wrote man that which he knew not. (Quran down and memorized parts of what 96:1-5) they had written. Because these Muhammad returned home codices had differences, the Caliph confused, not knowing what to make Uthman established a standard verof the strange encounter. His wife sion now known as Uthman's codex, Khadijah took him to her Ebonite which is generally considered the arcousin Waraqa ibn Nawfal. After lis- chetype of the Quran known today. tening to Muhammad's relation, he During prayers, the Quran is recited convinced him that the revelation only in Arabic. Someone who has was from God, Who is called Allah memorized the entire Quran is called in Islam. a hafiz. On another occasion, MuhamThe Quran, like the English mad heard a voice from the sky and King James bible, is an acknowlsaw the same angel "sitting between edged masterpiece of literature, certhe sky and the earth" and the reve- tainly the finest in the Arabic lations resumed with the first verses language. It is divided into chapters of chapter 74. He reported later that, called suras, which are then divided midway on the mountain, he heard a into verses called ayahs. voice from heaven saying "O MUSLIM BELIEFS Muhammad! you are the apostle of Some fundamental beliefs of Allah and I am Gabriel." He raised Muslims are: Allahu Akbar (God is his head towards heaven to see who the Greatest); Belief in the angels was speaking, and Gabriel in the (both good and bad); Belief in the reform of a man with feet extending vealed Books of God; Belief in the across the sky, saying, "O MuhamProphets (including Adam, Abramad! you are the apostle of Allah and ham, Moses, David and the final I am Gabriel." He turned his face, but Prophet Muhammad; life after death; he saw the angel wherever he turned. a final judgment, where persons will THE QURAN go to either Heaven or Hell based on The Quran was verbally re- their earthly deeds. Islam believes vealed to Muhammad by Allah, that Jesus was a great Prophet, not through the angel Gabriel from 609- God incarnate. 632 ACE, the year he died. Islam FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM does not consider him a saviour, but The five pillars of Islam are: a prophet and messenger of Allah. Shahadah; sincerely reciting It is believed that some of the Prophet's companions served as (continued on page 11)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016 New York Edition

tTbronlcle S THE MATIOM'S MEWSEAEER ^ Editor-in-Chief

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

Bogus

U.S.

registration

Illegal

aircraft

... Yupukari area on radar for narco trade (Editorial By Fareeza Haniff

Each

child

matters THIS year's Education Month (September) is being observed under the theme, "Each Child Matters: Stakeholders Unite for the Enhancement of Education." Efforts by every government to unleash and enhance the intellectual capacity of its human capital are worthy. A nation cannot develop without a vision and the inputs of its people, which even the ever-growing reliance on modem technology continues to prove. There is still the need for human inputs in the conceptualisation, development application and maintenance of the various mechanisations. People often speak about education as being in the classroom, completing school and passing examinations and being awarded the requisite certification. Yet education is much more complex. An educated nation is not only one where formal classrooms are established and students go through the radiments of meeting the curriculum and being successful at it. An important component, if not the most important, is the philosophy that drives the nation's developmental thrust that would inform its education policy and influences programmes and laws. A nation that prides itself as the best or among the best of nations, conceptualisation of its education policy will be driven to ensure it achieves or maintains that pride of place and competitive edge. Being in such category would ensure systems are built and put in place for intellectual development that would ensure productive citizens and increase productivity for the people and nation's benefits. Where the two are considered equally important, it requires catering for diverse abilities, given that each has unique talent and all talents, from the least to most certificated, are important. The focus that every child matters, the attention within recent years to downplay technical education as seen by the removal of the Community High Schools for instance, meant that some children did not matter. There is no one size fits all in learning or one skill fits all in development. Planning in education has to factor in these. Another component, which becomes important, given historical experiences of mistrust and inequities, is to factor into education the contributions each ethnic group has made to the nation's development. Welding a nation and ensuring the comity of its people rely on respecting all the peoples. One factor in ensuring this outside of laws is to create learning opportunities for each citizen not only to understand the contribution of his lineage, but also that of others. Civics needs to be in the classroom as a matter of importance to the nation's development. It is not untrue to say that among those who hold positions in government. elected and appointed, are persons unaware of how the laws and systems of government ought to function. Imparting such knowledge from young would not only

THE abandoned aircraft found at an interior airstrip bears a bogus United States (US) registration and the area where it was found was on the radar for the illicit drug trade, Cabinet Secretary Joseph Harmon has revealed. The twin engine Cessna Aircraft was found Wednesday at the Yupukari Airstrip. Region 9. (Upper Demerara/Upper Takatu) bearing registration numberN767Z. but Harmon told a post cabinet media briefing Thursday that investigations conducted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). Customs Ant-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) found that there is another active aircraft in the US with the same registration number. The Cessna 441 Conquest 11 is said to be a very expensive aircraft and according to knowledgeable sources it is extraordinarily strange for such type of craft to be found at the location. Guyana Chronicle was also told that the payload of the plane is about 4000 pounds minus fuel and has a range of 2500 miles on fuel. He further explained that the area has been under regular and constant surveillance because in the past an airstrip not very far from that location was actually used for aircraft that were connected to the illicit drug trade. "The members of CANU. the police force, the ranks are there. They're checking the aircraft to determine whether in fact it had a cargo, whether the cargo has been disposed of or what" Harmon disclosed. Army Chief of Staff Brigadier Mark Philips had told the Guyana Chronicle that the aircraft was spotted by residents of Yupukari who alerted the GDF and the police and according to Harmon a joint patrol was sent in and found the aircraft partly hidden. "It was off of the airstrip itself and there seemed to have been some kind

of a camouflage net that was thrown over it and it was partly in the bushes so we get the sense that it would have been there a few days," the Cabinet Secretary revealed. He believes that the aircraft was not at the location for too long, "because these joint services patrols now they go in the North and South Rupununi on a regular basis so they are in touch with the villages, they're in touch with the communities and that connection of community to the joint services, that information connection is working well for the defence and security of our borders." Government intends to release more information on the aircraft as the investigation is ongoing. Not the first time here that authorities have stumbled on illegal aircraft in the hinterland. Back in March 2005 police had stumbled on a Cessna 206 aircraft with duplicate registration said to be used in Venezuela. The Cessna with black and grey stripes with an emblem suspected to be that of Venezuela on its tail was first observed to be bearing the number YV0880P. Police had issued a wanted bulletin for Gary Anthony Grandison. whose address was given as Lot 13. Guyhoc Gardens and 13. Prince William Street Plaisance. East Coast Demerara. One of the men for whom wanted bulletins had been issued later turned himself over to police but no charges were laid in connection with the plane. The white single engine aircraft had among its features a special drop door, as well as on-board fuel tanks to facilitate long-range flights, an indication that it may have been used in some illegal activity, including the trafficking in narcotics or persons, lawmen here had said. Additionally, in October 2012 an Ecuadorian-registered 421 Cessna plane was seized at an illegal airstrip at Pirara, Region Nine. The plane was quickly repainted and its registration number changed, when authorities here had found it.

allows for an informed citizenry, but also influencing better understating of decisions taken, and decision-making when the time comes to serve. Formal education is the moulding of minds to understand and appreciate the world and one's contributions in the developmental processes, personal and otherwise. Guyana has her contributions to make to humankind and environmental development. Taking our place among the international community is reliant on the country's institutions, system of governance, and human relations to meaningfully participate within established and required standards. Historically. Guyanese are not only known for their brains, but also courtesy and respect for rules/laws, making us a valued and sought-after asset. Where there continues to be slippage, an education system has to factor in the importance of making it a priority. Efforts such as bringing private schools in compliance with the national education policy and upgrading the New Opportunity Corps are welcoming signs in quality assurance and improvement. That Government has accepted the importance of stakeholders in this year's theme says that it sees education as a collective societal responsibility. In this regard it is hoped that the psychosocial needs of the various demographics

are being factored in. As important as it is to ensure every child gets the education he/she needs and is capable of. unhindered by economic status, geography or other challenges. the needs of those who cater for this population too have to be met. Our teachers/educators are very important in the frontline delivery of education and should feel they are important to the process. In the public education system, grumblings by teachers/lecturers and their unions as to the treatment being received by their employers regarding agreement and conditions of work cannot go un-noticed and unattended. The relationship between employer and employees is important for the child's learning and development and harmonious relationships work to the advantage of the system. In the community, the family, equally as neighbours, is an important stakeholder. Whereas parents shoulder primary responsibility to ensure the child is socialised with needed relational skills, attends school, is learning, completing assignments and maintaining relations with the school, the community carries oversight responsibility and denizens positive role models. In education, the African proverb "It takes a village to raise a child" remains applicable and doable.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

A view from New York

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right and on the doggone money. In today's media-driven world the United States Presidential Elections is the show,

MD 10

and the national polls, conducted by these media houses, are the bait - and switch. So, maybe it was a slow news cycle after the recent Labor Day. Or maybe the mainstream media salivating over the billions of dollars still lying around in this US Presidential Election cycle just could not help themselves. When CNN announced that its latest polls showed the Republican and Democratic presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton in a "virtual dead heat" and that both we "tied" if the elections were held that day, everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, went berserk and into an acute state of panic. People were glued to TV screens to see if they were any answers to the question: "how did this happen?" Indeed, the very picture, or nightmare, conjured up by these poll numbers, of a President Trump in the White House, sent many a Hillary Clinton supporter reflexively rushing into the nearest restroom suffering an immediate and acute attack of panic diarrhea and nausea. That the corporate news networks routinely do this EVERY presidential election cycle in modern times still do not make these spontaneous stomach attacks and reactions any easier. Swooping down from its hidden orifices in the opaque clouds, the clawing, hacking Trumpite bird of prey came flashing into the public optical sphere and consciousness with a two-point lead over Hillary Clinton. People cried, I believe, others shuddered involuntarily, and political pundits and media-created talkocracy, searched the far recesses of their collective and feeble brains for answers to this astounding and baffling "new news" development. They went on national television, affecting an air of sagely know-it-all, offering all manner of grim forebodings, political doomsday scenarios, and "what ifs" to an already malleable, "softened and receptive" populace. Ah, the American corporate media and its legion of gullible believers. My reaction? Really? Where the hell did this come from all of a sudden? CNN and a carefully selected "polling" outfit came up with these "results" and presented them to the American people as "proof" that an enabled Donald Trump was "winning." But who or what is Opinion Research Corporation (ORC) the polling organization that CNN singled out for partnering with to come up with these astounding poll results? First,

D.C. ORC is a demographic, health, and Market Research company based in New Jersey. Second, The company's expertise is focused in the areas of consumer engagement strategies, market planning and development, employee engagement, corporate brand and reputation management, competitive intelligence and, on-demand business intelligence. [https://en.wikipe(lia.org/ wiki/Opinion_Research_Corporationl Today, no matter which media news outlet is doing it, national polls are the modem political versions of "Nightmare on Elm Street." They are designed to induce shock, fear, and TV ratings that drive super-profits and revenues. So you poor suffering sods continue to hang on to every "recent poll" and experience the same panic, the same rash to the bathroom, and the same reflex action to regurgitate - time after time. When will you ever learn? So, am I saying that these polls are deliberately fabricated, skewered? Is simply a corporate media invention to drive more advertising dollars to their greedy coffers? Yep, you're darn right I am. My proof? Let's examine the political math. First, the math is about and based on the ELECTORAL COLLEGE and the number of votes needed to win the presidency of the United States. That number is 270. Second, let's do a Jeopardy! Session: ELECTORAL COLLEGE & US PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS for $1,000. When each American voter casts a vote for a single candidate in which the candidate with the most votes wins, then the election procedure is called plurality rule. Many people in the United States think of plurality rule when they think about voting, because they cast a vote for a single candidate in many of the governmental elections, including the U.S. presidential election. But, the election for U.S. president is more complicated than plurality rule, as a candidate becomes the next president of the United States when he or she wins a majority, or 270 of the 538 electoral votes. For starters, each state in the Union is assigned a number of electoral votes according to its population. The number of electoral votes is set at 538. Each state receives one electoral vote for the number of members it has in the US House of Representatives; this accounts for 435 of the 538 electoral votes. The number of representatives of a state is determined through appor-

%m . .

270 Needed to Win H. Clinton - 253 D. Trump - 154 Tossup- 121

freedomslighthouse.net tionment that is a function of the U.S. Census population for the state. Accordingly, each state receives one electoral vote for each of its members of the Senate; this accounts for 100 electoral votes, as each state has two senators.

Finally, the District of Columbia has three electoral votes (as granted by the 23rd Amendment). In 48 of the 50 states and in the District of Columbia, the candidate who receives the most votes from its voters - the (continued on page 25)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

NEW YORK, NY; Council Member Jumaane D. Williams (DBrooklyn), Deputy Leader, released the following statement in regards to Eid al-Adha. "I would like to extend my best wishes to our Muslim neighbors and friends on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Adha - or the Greater Eid commemorates the willingness of Abraham and exemplifies the Muslim principles of charity, sacrifice and justice. As many gather for these celebrations, Muslim New Yorkers are among the millions of pilgrims in Mecca, participating in one of the world's largest gathering to share in reverent prayer. "This week is a very special time of spiritual cleansing and reflection in America for numerous religions, especially those of Abrahamic faiths. As a community, and regardless of our own personal creed, Eid reminds us to celebrate our rights and cultural diversity, equality, peace and justice for every human being. It's even more timely to recommit to these values given the recent attacks on Muslim New Yorkers we've endured. "May this time be a meaningful, spiritual experience for all who celebrate it. Eid Mubarak."

JAZZMASTER RANDY WESTON BEGINS RESIDENCY AT MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE BROOKLYN, N.Y. - Legendary jazz artist Randy Weston ~ pianist, composer, and lecturer ~ kicks off his yearlong Artist in Residency at Medgar Evers College with a master class from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 20. Joining him for the

â€˘

. r*

master class is Cuban percussionist, Candido Camero. The program, open to the publie, will be held in the Founders Auditorium at 1650 Bedford Avenue in Crown Heights. Mr. Weston is the very first artist to serve in a residency program at Medgar Evers College. A jazz innovator for over six decades, Mr. Weston's residency is intended to expose students and the public to the importance of jazz and the history of the music. Mr. Weston will conduct five master classes in the 2016-2017 Academic Year: three in the fall and two in the spring, with a sixth and final at commencement. All the classes are public and Mr. Weston will be joined by a featured artist at each event. The College's master class program awards a year-long residency to outstanding professionals. The goal is to create a space where personal inquiry and collaborative relationships can flourish and to advance culture through the arts while working through issues of social consciousness, community, diversity, and self-actualization. The residency program will also explore how ideas, images and music shape people's daily lives. Mr. Weston's sessions will ed-

ucate first-year students about the African musical tradition, with students writing a paper on how music is an integral part of the human experience. Mr. Weston will also illustrate the impact of Africa and its role in global music traditions to the students in Medgar Ever College's Pipeline program. The program provides students, parents, teachers and school leaders from more than 80 K12 schools in Central Brooklyn high-quality opportunities to onboard into college and the professional world. In June, Mr. Weston was celebrated by Medgar Evers College with song, dance and conversation during an event in the Founders Auditorium. The evening was preceded by a private reception for Mr. Weston, who was given a plaque reading "Artist of Distinction." 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 com-

â–

ti m prised 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.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

need

for

Cabinet

reshuffle

- despite errors, Granger defends keeping all his ministers By Ariana Gordon PRESIDENT David Granger is not of the opinion that the errors made by members of the cabinet of his administration warrant disciplinary action, because those errors, in his opinion, do no amount to criminality. "Yes. we accept that there have been errors, but those errors have not been (the) result of criminality; there have been administrative errors, and they are being corrected." the President said on his weekly television programme. The Public Interest, which was broadcast Friday evening. "Every government makes errors, and we just want to ensure we make fewer and fewer errors as we go along. But we have learnt a lot over the last 15 months." the President stated. adding that in some cas-

es Government had limited control over the situations. "Some of them are human. some are administrative errors, and some are as a result of what was inherited." the President declared. President Granger does not believe there is a need for a Cabinet reshuffle. He said the changes made to his Cabinet at the beginning of the year were designed to improve Cabinet's performance. Early this year, the President created the Ministry of Public Telecommunications. headed by former Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes. He also merged the Ministry of Tourism with the Ministry of Business, and placed same under the control of Minister Dominic Gaskin. "Whenever something happens that has been damning to the Government, we have an investigation. It is not something

Granger

to ignore. Where necessary, we ask the ministers concerned to explain and give reasons for their conduct," he added. President Granger noted, too. that all matters of national importance ~ positive or negative ~ are deliberated upon at the level of Cabinet. He said inquiries and investigations are done as a means to improve his administration's performance. Referring to the controversy surrounding the rental of a pharmaceutical bond at Sussex Street in Georgetown. the President made it clear that while there were errors with respect to the acquisition of the property and the rates for rental, government had an urgent need to remove much needed pharmaceuticals from the wharf. "...we had a situation with drugs on the wharf, and there was a danger of

i.'

aA President David Granger expulsion from the facility and there was need for the pharmaceuticals around the country; and those were the motivations for the action that was taken." he explained, even as he assured that "there was no criminality", and noted that "it was a question to get the job done." "Errors were made, and the Minister apologized. We are correcting those... As far

predicts

as I am concerned, we have put in place a system to prevent a recurrence." President Granger told reporters. Facing mounting calls for him to be relieved of his portfolio. Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton apologized on August 25 for what was deemed misleading and untrue statements to the National Assembly regarding the acquisition of the Sussex Street bond, owned by Lawrence 'Larry' Singh of Linden Holdings Inc. "I gave answers based on knowledge... and information presented to me." he said, referring to his statements in the House on August 8. when he claimed that the New GPC. which previously housed Government's pharmaceutical supplies, wanted over $19 million a month for rental, and so his Ministry sought to rent a cheaper bond for

better

$12.5 million. He had also claimed that the Sussex St. building was certified, but a check revealed that the building was incomplete, and in fact had no certification. "As Minister of Public Health. I know a high standard of duty is expected of me...I take full responsibility. and you have my commitment that it will not recur." declared Dr. Norton. Norton did not believe that his misleading statement to the House warranted his resignation or dismissal. Government has since described the arrangement with Linden Holding Inc. as "undesirable", and has explored a number of options to remedy the situation, including shortening the lease period for the rental of the Sussex Street facility while expediting a search for another facility.

2017

- says things moving slowly forward, but getting better By Ravin Singh PRESIDENT David Granger remains hopeful that things will, in 2017, get better for Guyana, despite consistent reports of a sluggish economy, which is nevertheless growing. The President expressed this view on Thursday during his weekly television show 'The Public Interest', aired on the state-owned National Communications Network (NCN). The World Bank had. in June, projected that Guyana's economy would grow four per cent this year, but had forecasted a smaller percentage of growth in the coming years. Guyana's economy grew three per cent in 2015. down from 3.8 per cent in 2014 and 5.2 per cent in 2013. And according to the bank's latest forecast, which is subject to change due to global circumstances. Guyana's economy is expected to grow an additional 3.9 per cent in 2017. and 3.8 per cent in 2018. Finance Minister Winston Jordan more recently announced that, for the first half of 2016. the country's economy grew 2 per cent. And with a small but steady growth rate, the President has expressed the view that the country is doing "quite well". He contends that the growth is quite sustainable, and things will get beher in the coming year. "In 2017. things will be beher. We will be presenting

our budget in a few months' time. Things are moving slowly forward, but we are getting beher all the time." the President opined. Despite current circumstances, causing some in the business community to express concerns. President Granger maintains that his views are quite hopeful for the economy. He pointed out. though, that in light of the current circumstances, he has always pointed out the danger of Guyana's economy and overreliance on the six sisters ~ gold, diamond, bauxite, sugar, rice and timber. Some of these issues, he said, have arisen because the country was not able to transform its economy in 50 years. However, he boldly pointed out that the manifestation of some of these economic issues could be credited to the problems the APNU+AFC Government inherited upon assumption to office last year. "There were lots of problems. For instance, we had to continue bailing out the sugar industry at the rate of nearly $10B a year. We have an underperforming Skeldon factory; we have a completely dysfunctional fibre-optic cable project; we have a lot of unpaid debts in the courts; we have some amount of environmental damage in the mining and logging areas; we have diseases that we have to combat," the head of state said.

He explained that these are just some of the issues which require "extraordinary expenditure" on the part of the administration. As such, he noted. Government is trying to deal with those issues while addressing the failures it inherited from the previous administration and the underperformance of the major sectors of the economy. President David Granger President Granger maintains, though, that Guyana is poised to do better in the coming years, and he remains hopeful for a bright future for the countrv.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

BIOMIMICRY AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS UEVELUFMENT

Dr. Basil Springer's

"For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a

Column

yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1 The 2016 Olympic games where 10,500 athletes from 207 countries were competing in 28 sports. One of the emotions which I experienced while watching a part of the opening ceremony in Rio de Janeiro was the wish for harmony and unity in the world. Over the next several weeks, in this column, I am going to share my views as to how an Eastern philosophy, with roots dating back 5,000 years, can help other societies search for a sense of meaning and purpose, especially in the context of sustainable business development. In an age when most people spend more time looking at a computer screen than out of the window, and when human interaction flies by at the speed of an email, I have been engaged in discussing a book which presents recipes for clarity, simplicity and wisdom in everyday life. One section of the book "Biomimicry", which is embedded in a Chapter on "Nature's Wisdom", tickled my fancy. The book, "wabi sabi - Timeless Wisdom for a Stress-Free Life" by Swedish expert Agneta Nyholm Winqvist, offers a ray of hope in her succinct and unadorned introduction to the Eastern philosophy of wabi sabi. Biomimicry is an approach to innovation that seeks sustainable so-

lutions to human challenges by emulating nature's time-tested patterns and strategies. The goal is to create products, processes, and policies new ways of living - that are welladapted to life on earth over the long haul. Little did I know when I embarked on my training and practice as a Biometrician nearly 50 years ago and dabbled in the application of design and statistical analysis to biological data, that I would now be fascinated and engrossed in Biomimicry. I have already introduced and received favorable feedback on the analogy between the systems of the human body and the systems of a business. My passion is to pursue this analogy to see if the robust behaviors of the human body can map over into the more fragile environment of a business to strengthen the business to the extent that the rate of business success among start-up businesses in the first five years is significantly improved to approach the level of success in the first five years of life of a human being.

Sobr Enargy rr*| »l. I -9.. tfhCKTCf Adflpiabm? Coopantcn OnanMy local KjrmwiaOgH and Eittwina CoLatlenKtrig Lnxvsett Pomt of Liirvtatcrs

94*m •. i' How can we learn from nature and innovate? In this context, subsequent columns will address: (1) Solar energy; (2) Recycling; (3) Efficiency; (4) Adaptability; (5) Cooperation; (6) Diversity; (7) Local Knowledge and Expertise; (8) Counteracting Excesses and (9) the Power of limitations. Hopefully, in each case, there will be messages which will stimulate our minds to provide answers to this question. Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you. Let us use the Di-

vine freedom that we have received to explore and create a better place for mankind. (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.) Advertize in the NEW YORK EDITION of the GUYANA CHRONICLE and see your business grow.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Let

the

truth

\ A 4

known

about

(from page 4) the Muslim profession of faith. Salat: performing ritual prayers in the proper way five times daily. Zakat: paying an alms (or charity) tax to benefit the poor and the needy. Sawm: fasting during the month of Ramadan. Hajj: pilgrimage to Mecca. EID AL-ADHA Eid al-Adha, also called the "Sacrifice Feast", is the holiest of the two Muslim holidays celebrated worldwide each year. The other is Eid Al-Fitr. Eid Al-Adha is celebrated on the tenth day of Dhu al-EIijjah and lasts for four days. The word appears once in Al-Ma'ida, the fifth sura of the Quran, with the meaning "solemn festival." It occurs during Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. This year in the USA, it occurs on September 12. During this feast, Muslims put on their best clothes, go to a mosque,

Telephone:

Islam

perform Eid prayer and listen to a sermon. They also visit friends and relatives. Muslims who can afford it, sacrifice their best halal domestic animal (usually a cow, but can also be a camel, goat, sheep, or ram as a symbol of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his only son. The sacrificed animal is called adhiya. The feast remembers Ibrahim's (Abraham) obedience to God. He had been commanded to sacrifice his son (Isaac in Christianity, Ishmael in Islam; but not named in the Quoran). He went to Mount Moriah to perform the act. As he was about to make the sacrifice, God sent angel Jibra'il (Gabriel), who stopped him and gave him a ram to sacrifice in place of his son. If the truth be known, Islam resembles Christianity in significant respects. It places value on life and treats all perons as brothers and sisters. If a few fanatics commit atrocities, the religion must not be blamed. As-salamu alaykum.

o s ✓

r TWO DIFFERENT DOCTORS sad but so true Two patients limp into different medical clinics with the same complaint? Both have trouble walking and appear to require a hip replacement. The FIRST patient is examined within the hour, is x-rayed the same day and has a time booked for surgery the following week. The SECOND sees his family doctor after waiting three weeks for an appointment, then waits eight weeks to see a specialist, then gets an x-ray, which isn't reviewed for another week and finally has his surgery scheduled for six months from then. Why the different treatment for the two patients? The FIRST is a Golden Retriever. The SECOND is a Senior Citizen. Next time take me to a vet! SOMETIMES SENIORS DON'T UNDERSTAND DIRECTIONS. I went to my nearby CVS Pharmacy, straight to the back, where the Pharmacist's high

counter is located. I took out my little brown bottle, along with a teaspoon, and set them up on the counter. The Pharmacist came over, smiled, and asked if he could help me. I said, "Yes! Could you please taste this for me?" Seeing a senior citizen, the Pharmacist went along. Fie took the spoon, put a tiny bit of the liquid on it, put it on his tongue and swilled it around. Then, with a stomach-churning look on his face, he spat it out on the floor and began coughing. When he finally was finished, I looked him right in the eye and asked. Now, does that taste sweet to you?" The Pharmacist, shaking his head back and forth with a venomous look in his eyes yelled, HREF NO!!!" I said, "Oh, thank God! That's a real relief! My doctor told me to have a Pharmacist test my urine for sugar!" I can never go back to that CV S, but I really don't care, because they aren't very friendly there anymore!

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Parlka

school

woman,

78,

back

trained

mechanic

- Fed up of being fooled by mechanics,

Yvonne Trim

decided she had to learn how to Six her own vehicle By Neil Marks The production of the first Morris Oxford cars began in 1913, and as time passed by, different models were developed. Yvonne Trim, 78, who lives on the way to Hubu backdam in Parika, East Bank Essequibo, has two of them in her backyard. We are not quite sure of the year they were manufactured, but one of them, PC 210, was registered in 1955. Her dream is to get them in working order, and take them for a sweet drive. She can't wait. "Just for the joy of it," she tells the Sunday Chronicle, bearing a broad smile as if she is already in the moment. And why else would she be knocking away at these decades-old engines, sometimes even way into the evening? Her daughter, who she lives with, would have to be the constant human alarm: "Mommy, 10 O'clock gone!" She'd reluctantly agree to retire to bed, but those old engines would be on her mind. "I does dream about this work in the night; in the morning soon as a I wake I gone again. I love it, I love it!

"I had to turn my own little nuts and so to get by." But there was only so much she could do. She now owns a small minibus, and whenever there was a problem, she'd have to call in the mechanics, but often found that she was being fleeced. "I was fooled by many, many mechanics. They would say that they do this and do that and then charge you. "But they didn't do anything, because I have proof for that!" Before we could ask to back up her claim of being conned, she pointed to one of the Morris Oxfords, presumably a Mosquito, as the Morris Minor series first released in 1948 was called. "One day I brought the mechanics here to work on this very engine. "I see how they take out the engine, do something, and it went "vrrom. vroom." "But when they left it never started back. I called them back, but they never came." It was decision time for Ms Trim. "This is wrong, get on the track," she remembers telling herself.

FLEECED

BACKTO SCHOOL

Ms Trim was bom at Paradise, East Coast Demerara, but when her parents bought a piece of farmland, they all moved to Roden Rust along the Parika road heading to Hubu. She got into farming herself when she got older, and helped in caring for her ten children. Of course, the farm produce had to be taken to the market. Her boys would mostly get that done and they were the ones who knew about vehicles. With her boys all grown and out of the house, Ms Trim still had to get the produce to the market and tried to fix whatever little issues would arise with the vehicle.

Just about two years ago, she noticed a neighbour's son, dressed in uniform, heading off. She was curious to know where he was going and headed over to find out from the boy's mother. She learnt he was heading to the Leonora Technical Institute, West Coast Demerara to be trained as a mechanic. Her curiosity was heightened. "You never too big to learn," she remembers thinking at the time. Sure enough, she found her way to the Institute and learnt that she was not too old to enroll. She went home, bought material for her uniform, took it to get sewn, and she was off to the institute a few days

after she signed up to study motor mechanics. "The instructor is very nice to me; he explains things in a very simple way. "From what I gather, I can handle myself much better." The Institute allows Ms Trim to learn at her own pace. But she is trying to be ahead of the game. That explains why she acquired the two Morris Oxfords and an old Wolseley - she wants to practice and use the instruction she is receiving. "I bought the old cars because with a new car you can't go in and trouble anything on it. But with the old cars, nobody is there to stop me from doing anything." When she can't wrap her head around a problem, Ms Trim would call up one of the school instructors or she would go in and tell them. "I love the job, I really love the job. It keeps me healthy, it keeps me fit," she says. Ms Trim enjoys the classes so much that she has been encouraging other women to go, including a neighbour, whose husband works as a security guard. "I will bug them to go; they have to go," she insists. "I am trying to tell them not to sit down and depend on somebody. When you have to depend on people you bring a lot of eyepass on yourself, but if you can help yourself, well that's a different story." One of the women she is trying to encourage is all the way on the West Bank of Demerara, many, many miles away from where she lives. "As women, let us feel proud and be proud people. Don't sit and depend on anyone. Don't depend on your husband, because it is when he brings a dollar you will get to spend, but if you have your own dollar, you will get to spend anytime you want. "I was trained that way... don't depend on nobody; get up and get what you want." Before we end, would it be too obvious to state that Ms Trim can drive "anything"?

V A,

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Yvonne Trim poses with one of the Morris Oxfords, a the Wolseley, she has been working on to test what she is being taught at the Leonora Technical Institute. (Samuel Maughn photo)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Qmn's College Almii The

Queen's

College

Elects First Wenen

of Guyana Alumni Association

(NY),

President

Inc.

("QCAANY") created history by unanimously electing Karen Wharton as its first woman President. The election came during its annual general meeting on Sunday September 11,2016 in New York. With her election, Ms. Wharton also became and on a variety of projects. Most recently, she the first female to lead a Queen's College alumni facilitated "This is Ours," a visual literacy initiaassociation. This comes 41 years after the school tive that engaged students from Bina Hill Institute first opened its doors to girls and during a year in in North Rupununi and Queen's College in which QCAANY is celebrating its 25th anniver- Georgetown. This resulted in the publishing of a sary. book in 2015. Also elected to the 2016-2017 Executive Committee were Michael Jones (Vice-President), Gordon Wilson (Secretary), Terrence Campbell (Treasurer), Saran Nurse (Organizing Secretary) and Dr. Terrence Blackman (Assistant Secretary/Treasurer) . Effusively praising outgoing president, Mr. John Campbell, for his strength and leadership, Ms. Wharton credited him with shepherding the Association during a time of transition. She pledged continuity for the initiatives that are underway, while acknowledging the significant symbolism of her election. Among her immediate goals is the expansion of public-private-philanthropic partnerships in order to more efficiently and cost-effectively support Queen's College, and in so doing, the people of Guyana. She also plans to increase the engagement of QC alumni in the diaspora and to assist recent QC graduates, living in the tri-state area, during their transition to North American life. Ms. Wharton has been a member of QCAANY since 1993. She has served on the Executive Committee in several different capacities

She also assisted with the 2016 Math and Robotics summer camp that was led by Dr. Blackman, Ms. Nurse and Mr. Campbell. However, when asked of which initiative she is most proud, Ms. Wharton immediately recalled the Association's push in 2004 to provide Internet service to QC. She noted that creating a mechanism for students to access the internet, regardless of their socio-economic status, is paramount to bridging the digital divide. "Making investments that are supported by data is something that our Association believes in," Ms. Wharton said. To that end, she noted that the report on the first phase of a comprehensive needs assessment of QC undertaken by Dr. Michelle Mickle-Foster (QC alumna), on behalf of the Association and at the request of Mr. Campbell, was completed. The recently published report will be used to inform the membership of the Association's contributions. Karen Wharton is very active in Guyanese community. She is an Education Resource Ambassador supporting The University of Guyana's Renaissance. Specifically, she's a member of UG's NY Support Group. Earlier this year, she served on the Sympo-

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KAREN WHARTON sium Sub-Committee, 50th Independence Anniversary Celebrations Committee, New York, where she helped organize The National Symposium Series that was held during Guyana's Golden Jubilee celebrations in Georgetown and New York. Additionally, she is a Founding Member of the Queens-based Guyana Jamaica Friendship Association where she served as its first Public Relations Officer. Ms. Wharton attended Queen's College from 1976 to 1981. She is a graduate of Boston University with a B .S. in Mechanical Engineering and of Pace University with a M.S. in Telecommunications. She lives in Brooklyn, NY with her husband, James Blain, and their 16-yearold daughter. Kali.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

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A cowboy makes his way home at Annai, Region Nine. The village, made up mostly of Amerindians of the Macushi tribe, is located on the foothills of the Pakaraima Mountains. Guyana is this month observing Indigenous Heritage Month under the theme: "Our Culture, Earth's Future-Saving the Environment, Live the Indigenous Way." (Adrian Persaud photo)

Henry

Rodney

By Tamica Garnett OVER $100,000 was raised to assist local actor/comedian Henry Rodney and make-up artist Corin Gibson, with the successful hosting of yet another "Style Mission" fashion show last Sunday at the Pegasus Hotel. Organised by Sonia Noel, local designer and close friend of both Rodney and Gibson, the event was not the first of its kind, but was definitely one that was worth attending, as gifted models exhibited striking clothing in what could be described as nothing less than a smoothly executed show. Noel, who also featured a number of her pieces in the line-up, was particularly pleased with how the show went off. WELL RECEIVED Though, turnout could have been better, the event was well attended and well received. "I really feel this was one of our best presentations. The flow of the show was exceptional," she said, adding: "We had some nice support; a delegation from the European Union was there. We could have had some more people, but I thought the support was good." Now in its sixth edition, Noel has been hosting the event over a number of years, always in the benevolent spirit of raising funds for one charitable cause or another. Her assessment of this hosting was substantiated by the show's Creative Director, Richard Young. Not usually one that is easy to please, this time around Young was very much satisfied with how the show came off. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle following the show, he said: "This was one of our best shows; it was

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huge

success

absolutely smooth and tight. We had Mondale Smith and Feliz Robertson, Ms. Talented Teen; they came to endorse the event. The execution ran smoothly; we utilised the space in a very interesting way, and the music was planned to perfection. The musical score for the show was very diverse." AUCTION The fashion show was also complemented with an auction, which saw a pair of paintings by visual artist, Devina Detutron going for over $30,000; one of Noel's creations going for $44,000; and a beautifully-crafted pair of earrings from King's Jewellery World going for $26,000. But nothing captivated the audience like the pieces that were strutted down the runway by the models. The event, which featured 20 designers, two of whom were from Suriname, also doubled as another prelude to the upcoming Guyana Fashion Week event in November. The designers listing included works from Linden's Crystal Lam, as well as industry veterans Neilson Nurse, Paula Evans, Paul Burnette, and Isiah Luther. The two-hour show also included a touching address by Tamara Rodney, Henry's daughter. Noel also took the time to express heartfelt gratitude to all the sponsors of the event, among them the Pegasus Hotel, The New Breed, Caribbean International Distribution, National Communications Network, NTN, 93.1FM, Hits and Jams Entertainment, Guyana Times (TVG), the Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts, Guyana Fashion Week, and Niketa Hussain, the official make-up artist of the event.

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One of the pieces on display at last Sunday's Style Mission (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Private

farmer

confidence

displays

agriculture

local

sector

"Farming is in my blood.. .I'm very passionate about it and simply cannot see myself involved in any other business, " says Forbes McGarre/l, a second generation farmer. Mc Garrell has been engaged in farming for the past 24 years, gaining vast experience in the rice and cash crop sectors. Years ago, while residing in Barbados MeGarrell did farming on a subsistence level. Considering his success at farming, Mc Garrell decided to return home (Guyana) to take up large scale farming. Being ambitious and forward thinking, he was able to achieve certain aspects of his dream. Today, he is the proud owner of McGarrell's Farm and Plant Nursery, situated at Acme Housing Scheme, Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequbio. The company has distribution sites in Georgetown, Mon Repos and Linden. Confident in the local agriculture sector, Mc Garrell will be opening a distribution site in Charity, Region Two. This is being done in partnership with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). MeGarrell is the General Manager for his company and is actively involved in every aspect, particularly the germination of seeds. Of the fifteen persons employed with the company, 80 percent are women. The male employees operate machinery, maintenance and do the heavy lifting while the women work to produce healthy seedlings. The plant nursery supplies a variety of seedlings including tomato, lettuce, celery and cabbage to home gardeners and commercial farmers across Guyana. When the Chief Executive Officer of NAREI, Dr. Oudho Homenauth and team visited the company's operations base at Tuschen back dam. East Bank Essequbio, on Wednesday, two women were potting. Sitting under a breezy shed Pamela Gossai and Bibi Yassin were busy. On a daily basis, the duo pots about 200 seedling trays with ease. After potting, the seedlings are placed in shaded conditions, where they stay for about three T7 Cabbage being grown on a large scale

to four weeks (depending on the crop) before being transported to the distribution sites. Mc GarrelTs seedlings are sold from as low as $8. Seedlings produced are also utilized on the company's farm. For the past 15 years, MeGarrell has been engaged in commercial farming. Major plans are in the pipeline for the development of the 42 acres of land at Tuschen. The farm is equipped with a tractor, an excavator, and a small engine boat. He has expressed an interest in having NAREI set up demonstration plots on his farm. About 15 acres of the farmland is currently being utilized with the cultivation of cabbages and plantains, and nearby there is a hassar pond. McGarrell's farm is one to boast about. Even with the large land space, the farm beds are clean. There is no visible sign of pest destruction to the crops. Of course, having a farm of this high sanitation standard comes with a lot of work. Work on the farm begins promptly at 06:30 hrs and concludes at 18:00hrs. The workers are entitled to breaks. Some of them relax in or under the small cottage on the farm while the others use hammocks. The simple lifestyle the farm offers workers could be an intriguing and/or learning experience for persons, especially those accustomed to a hectic lifestyle or want to get involved in farming. As such, MeGarrell wants to get involved in agriculture tourism. He believes that the serenity, nature, and the rural lifestyle could be an exciting package. According to Dr. Homenauth, NAREI is pleased whenever farmers are engaged in such progressive ventures since they improve the livelihoods of communities. The Institute will continue to support such initiatives since help to realize President David Granger's vision of reviving village economies.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

WILLIAMS1

RECITING

STATEMENT

PLEDGE

NEW YORK, NY: Council Member Jumaane D. Williams (D-Brooklyn), Deputy Leader, released the following statement in regards to his decision not to recite the United States Pledge of Allegiance. "The topic of racial justice has ideals it espouses and the reality for been at the forefront of this coun- so many .Thankfully, just as embedtry's headlines for the past several ded in American history are those years. Our emotions were in in- who have fought throughout, and flamed with the murder of Trayvon pushed the country further toward Martin, and then by the murders of those ideals. I've always admired Michael Brown, Eric Garner, San- those Americans and many arc my dra Bland, Alton Sterling, and Phi- sheroes and heroes. "For most of my life I've taken lando Castile, to name only a few. Gun violence is in our inner cities on a personal protest when it comes nightly, while the cries for the re- to the Pledge of Allegiance, and sources needed to rise above subsis- with some exceptions, The Star Spangled Banner. While I would tence are ignored. "This past week we commem- stand quietly out of respect I would orated the 15 th anniversary of the not recite. This option is afforded to 9/11 attacks with statements and me in part by the men and women in tributes affirming the greatness of the armed forces, who have sacrithis nation. As a proud American I ficed so much for the right to do so, too participated. At the same time and I believe is in the greatest tradiI've always wondered how so many tion of America. can ignore what history shows us; "I've decided to make my perthat America has always struggled sonal protest more pronounced and with closing the gap between the public at this time for a variety of

COURT

NOT

ALLEGIANCE

reasons. In good conscience I couldn't continue to protest quietly without using it to highlight the plight of so many. As a person who loves the country of his birth, believes in it and is privileged to have reached a modicum of success in his chosen field, I believe it is my duty to do all I can to raise the voice of those who feel voiceless and who struggle every day. "I am choosing to recommit to this personal protest in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick, who has bravely decided to kneel down during the national anthem in tribute to oppressed Black Americans. I only hope that local professional athletes will be inspired by this show of strength and join Colin in his protest. This type of non-violent protest is not disrespectful as some have suggested. He deserves support, not criticism for his actions. What does it say about our country when there is a national outrage over an athlete sitting out the national anthem, but the same outrage isn't expressed when a young Black man is killed for no reason. "Locally, the news of Daniel Pantaleo's pay raise was especially bothersome. This man, who murdered Eric Garner, was not only not prosecuted or punished for his crime, he was rewarded with increased pay. Where is the justice in that, especially as we struggle with

issues of transparency when it comes to police records, including Panteleo's, and are still fighting to have a vote on the widely supported Right to Know Act. "We are at a swelling point in this country. Non-violent protest is in the best tradition in this country. History approves of those who fought for justice even if they were not supported at the time. From boycotts, to the iconic image of the Black power fist up at the Olympics; from marches to sit-ins, many romanticize these hard fights and think about what they would do if we were there. It's time now for us all to do what we can, with where we are and with what we have. At minimum, we can support those who are trying to do just that."

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Colin Kaepernick sitting during the singing of the National anthem

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Emphasis 01 Real Estate, 5 $ TAXES

Did

you

receive

Taxes and Business The Edgar Henry Column

your

Tax

Refund?

Although the tax deadline in April has passed, the majority of us did the right thing and filed our taxes on time. Notwithstanding, we are in the month of September and most of us are still waiting to receive our

r. V

refunds. The Internal Revenue Service annually freezes tens of thousands of tax refunds it deems questionable,

delaying payments for months in many cases without telling filers they are suspected of some type of fraud. DID THE RIGHT THING You did what you had to do; you met the April deadline; you signed your tax returns; you applied sufficient postage on the envelopes; if you filed electronically, you complied with all the requirements; your calculations arc correct; and most of all your entries were all legitimate in accordance with the tax laws. It is now the month of September and you do not have your refund. You now have sleepless nights determining if the check was lost in the mail, if someone cashed your check; if it went to someone else's bank account or if something was radically wrong with your filing. It is a central tenet of American law that the government must notify an accused person of any tax offense if it suspects wrong doing. They must give the accused person an opportunity to present exculpatory evidence to show their innocence. Because of the volume of returns that arc questionable, if the IRS believes that there is a discrepancy or any fraudulent entries they should do a better job of communicating with taxpayers. Overall, the program temporarily delays a small number of refunds but stops billions in false refunds from being paid to culprits. A random survey revealed that 80 percent of taxpayers eventually got some or all of the requested refunds, although they had to wait an average of more than eight months beyond the normal processing period. A random sample was c allied out by a particular agency - which shall remain nameless - and it was revealed that taxpayers in the sample had a median adjusted gross income of $13,330, and the median refund ultimately received was about $3,500, which indicated that the affected individuals suffered significant hardship due to the delay. The IRS claimed the sample was biased because it was based on people who sought the help of that agency. Hence they were more likely to be innocent. IDENTITY THEFT If you received an e-mail or phone call from the Internal Revenue Service

£22;

telling you that your tax return was selected for an audit, would you provide your personal information? If you answered yes, chances are you would become a victim of identity theft. Each year, millions of Americans spend hours preparing their taxes, hoping they do not owe money to Uncle Sam. But what many fail to realize is that the government is not the only one after your money. Identity thieves take advantage of tax season to prey on unsuspecting victims. The Questionable Refund Program is run by the IRS Criminal Investigation office and uses computer programs and other methods to screen tax returns claiming refunds for indications of fraud. It temporarily freezes returns that might be fraudulent. The IRS tries to validate the taxpayers' right to the refund and lifts the freeze if no fraud is found. If the refund cannot be validated, it permanently freezes the refund for further investiga-

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A tion. The IRS does not inform taxpayers that they're suspected of fraud. Under the program's rules, a taxpayer isn't told anything until six months after trying to find out what happened to the refund. Once frozen, some tax returns arc referred to IRS offices for an audit. Refunds claimed on tax returns determined to be fraudulent remain frozen for an undisclosed number of years until the IRS sees that the taxpayer file a number of legitimate returns. That's right, people's tax refunds just never show up and the IRS doesn't tell them that their refunds aren't coming.

SHIPPING

Approximately 1.6 million taxpayers have had their refunds frozen over the past five years. The IRS can just hold the money in permanent freeze until a taxpayer asks about it. The IRS has the right to investigate potential fraud before issuing refunds. The IRS said the cases involved sensitive criminal investigations but acknowledged that "communications with taxpayers on potentially fraudulent returns is an issue." Recently the IRS started sending letters to some taxpayers who (continued on page 26)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Yachts moored on the Essequibo River for the 4th Nereid's Yacht Rally held here on Monday (Photos by Samuel Maughn) _

Nereid's

braves

By Michel Outridge MINISTER of Business, Dominic Gaskin on Monday welcomed the Nereid's International Yacht Rally, the fourth to date, to Hurakabra Resort on the Essequibo River where more than 14 yachts are moored after sailing thousands of miles. He told the gathering that he hopes to see yachting mushroom into something even bigger here, as it has immense potential for our country. Gaskin encouraged the tourists to make full use of their time here, by soaking in as much of historic sights as they can. and enjoying our culture and foods. The event was organised by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Business and Hurakabra Resort.

calls

storm

again

way

Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) Chairman, Gordon Bradford said he is pleased to see how the event has grown, and feels it should be nurtured for further enhancement where more yachts can sail into Guyana to the beautiful region. Speaking on behalf of his fellow yatchers. Russell Alzendorff of the 'Enterprise', the largest yacht in the flotilla, said the voyage to Guyana was not an easy one. as they had to brave a storm on their way over. He. however, thanked Minister Gaskin. as well as Davide Matelicani. the Italian organiser of the voyage, for their hospitality and for making their stay safe and comfortable. He also talked of Matelicani's infectious enthusiasm in organising the rally and the bureaucracy involved in travelling to Guyana. Some participants, he said, sailed thousands of miles just

over

to be here, having left their homes and families back in France. Germany. Switzerland and Britain. He said the group also swapped their highly successful careers to take on the rally for a life of being their own plumbers, electricians, carpenters, mechanics, doctors and seamstresses all living and sailing on a yacht. They accomplished all this, he said, in the most difficult of circumstances while at sea. at a rolling anchorage, with limited tools and even more limited access to trustworthy help. The journey, he said, also entailed wandering in and out of cafes looking for Wi-Fi connections, and hopping down busy shopping areas looking for SIM cards and stores to buy spares. But, living on a yacht, he said,is not as insane as some may think, and is well worth the while to arrive in a country like Guyana where one gets the sense that a new adventure awaits.

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Yachters at Hurakabra Resort

Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin chatting with yachters yesterday

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Over

4000

drop

schoolchildren

out

annually

- President commissions 12th school bus PRESIDENT David Granger said that nothing is worse than having a child grow up without an education. He was at the time speaking to residents of Mabaruma, Barima-Waini (Region One), where he commissioned another 30-seater school bus. The vehicle was donated by the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) to the President's Boats, Buses, Bicycles + Breakfast and Books 'Five Bs' programme. President Granger said that his Government is deeply committed to developing human capital, as this is the only way to secure the country's future. "We found that one of the greatest needs is for children to get to school; we found that over 4000 children drop out of school every year in Guyana, we found that the lowest education grades in the country were in the hinterland. In some regions 90 per cent of the children fail English and Mathematics at the National Grade Six level. We are not happy with this." President Granger was quoted as saying in a release from the Ministry of the Presidency. He informed that his Government has adopted the motto of "every child in school" and called on the regional and municipal administrations and residents to adopt that motto. The President assured that on the part of central Government. all of the necessary measures will be taken to improve access to education, which he described as one of the greatest impediments to the development of far-flung communities. "Education is the best thing that can happen to a child. We have too many dropouts, too many low grades and we are confident that once children get to school they will become better educated and have a better

chance at a bright future... We must have an educated nation. That is the starting point." the President said. He also called on parents and community members to take a firm stance against truancy, noting that failure to do so would be a disservice to Guyana. UNEMPLOYMENT Speaking on the issue of unemployment. President Granger reminded the audience that Barima-Waini is one of the richest regions in the country in terms of agricultural potential. He told the residents that, "if we use our potential, use our resources, we will find employment right here." Responding to criticisms that the Government is abandoning youths, the Head of State said that nothing could be further from the truth, but rather Government is focused on empowering young people so they can be their own job creators. He said his Administration has introduced the Hinterland Youth Employment Services (HEYS) programme and the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Development (SLED) programme, which to date, have benefited hundreds of young people. He said that youths can earn a comfortable living in their respective regions, if they become entrepreneurs and explore the opportunities that exist in agro-processing. He noted, however, that youths will only be able to succeed in this respect if they have a sound education, which must involve information technology. "There is profit in business, there is success in business, there is independence in business and there is development in business. so I want to encourage you to be entreprenems and you can do so by becoming more literate." the President emphasised.

With respect to the infrastructural challenges that the region has been facing, he reaffirmed his Government's commitment to fixing the roads in the region and the ferry, which would open up the region and boost economic activities. Meanwhile. Minister Ally, whose ministry has been wholly responsible for the coordination of the 'Five Bs' programme, said that this is just one of many interventions by the Government to bridge the gap that exists between the hinterland and the coast. "Access to education must not be seen as a privilege for some, but as a basic human right for all... Education empowers people with the skills and knowledge they need to contribute to building the nation... Without targeted investment in our children, the prosperity and future of the nation will be at stake." she said. Regional Chairman Mr Brentnol Ashley, in his ad-

dress, told residents that it is high time they work together to remove the religious and political barriers that prevent them from moving forward together as a region. He lauded the President's vision for education, which is clearly

Kamwatta have to travel to Mabaruma to attend school and it costs parents more than $1000 per day in transportation alone. This bus, she said, will greatly ease the financial burden on parents.

demonstrated in the 'Five Bs' programme but urged parents to play their part as well. Ms. Kelly Pierre, a resident of Region One who attended the commissioning ceremony, said that children from as far as

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Family

outing

turns

deadly

■girl, 4, killed in Sheriff Street smash-up By Rabindra Rooplall A TWO-VEHICLE collision at the corner of Garnett and Sheriff Streets in Campbellville, Georgetown on Saturday at about 22:00hrs resulted in 4-year-old Abiola Providence of Newtown, Kitty being propelled through the windscreen of motor car PMM 1426 and losing her life on the roadway. Reports indicate that Providence and tw o of her relatives were in the back seat of the vehicle as it proceeded south on Sheriff Street; and as the car stopped at the centre of the junction preparatory to turning west motor vehicle GPP 3500. which was proceeding north, collided with the left of the car. resulting in the infant being flung through the window and onto the roadway. Rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC). she was pronounced dead on arrival. Her tw o relatives. Abiola Trotman and Cheryl Williams, received injuries and have been admitted as patients at the GPHC. The condition of each is regarded as stable. Derrick Bailey, driver of PMM 1426. was unhurt, but is in police custody. The driver of GPP 3500. reportedly 19 years old. is a patient at Woodlands Hospital. A breathalyzer test has determined that the alcohol content in his breath was above the legal limit.

Police say an investigation is being conducted on how he had received a driver's licence for a van. Derrick Bailey told the Guyana Chronicle in an interview that he and the occupants of his car had visited the Royal Castle outlet on Sheriff Street to get something to eat. "I reverse and come back, and a white car was in front of me and the light to turn was saying green. I don't know if the other driver was watching the countdown on the traffic light, but he was blazing coming; so when the light said turn, the white car in front of me move and I turn. So by the time I barely turn out, this man didn't mash brakes or nothing to indicate that he would stop," Bailey explained. He added: "When this man slam into me. he pitched the car into a nearby yard. I kicked open the door, (and) when I look. I didn't see the little child or her mother; but the grandmother was in the back seat." He recalled that Saturday was the child's grandmother's birthday and tw o vehicles with relatives had visited the Giftland Mall; and they decided to visit Royal Castle to have something to eat. Bailey said the mother and the child were pitched through the car window when the pickup slammed into his vehicle. The mother was seated in front, while the child was in the rear.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

long

walks

school

- Minister Valerie Patterson donates cycles to Nappi pupils By Ravin Singh IMAGINE having to walk for one hour to get to school in the scorching sun every morning at the age of 10, then another hour in the afternoon after school has ended. This was the plight of 15 pupils of the Nappi Primary School in Region Nine before receiving kind donations through efforts spearheaded by Minister within the Ministry of Communities. Valerie Patterson. About a month ago. Petro Nilla. the Headteacher of Nappi Primary School made a request to the minister during a visit to Nappi. for the bicycles, which she said was desperately needed for the pupils. "We made a request about a month ago when Minister Patterson visited for bicycles for children who were travelling to school, walking five or more Kilometres." she said. And during a second visit to the community, which the minister has unofficially adopted. 15 bicycles were donated to the pupils and their elated spirits could not be controlled. The bicycles, which vary in sizes and colour, were donated by United Commodities Inc. Aruwai white H20. Food For the

Poor and a private individual. James Herbert. Shadia Henrico. 11. who will be sitting the National Grade Six Assessment (NGS A), next year, said she felt proud owning a bicycle. "I feel so proud of having this bicycle. We used to spend about one hour walking to school every day. tw o times a day and it was very hard on us." the Nappi Primary School pupil said. Her Headteacher was also happy and surprised at the fact that the donation was made in such a short time. She also acknowledged the efforts of every individual who chipped in to help support the pupils. "We are extremely thankful to everyone who helped to provide these bicycles. It will be of great help to the students, especially at this time when students have national exams." She went on to explain the impact the bicycles will have on the lives of these children. "When children have to walk great distances, it affects how they perform at school, because by the time they get to school, they are tired or hungry and they cannot focus during school hours." she said.

Cognisant of this. Minister Patterson encouraged the children to utilise their new bicycles for the purposes intended and to treat them with care so they would be able to benefit from them as long as possible. She also encomaged them to remain focused on their education. which she said is the key to a successful life. But the donations made by the minister were more than just bicycles. The village also benefitted from a brush cutter, while food items and cosmetics were distributed to residents. That same day Nappi was observing its Village Day. The occasion is usually observed during Amerindian Heritage Month every year. It was a fun-filled day as residents were able to socialise with friends and family, participate in sporting activities, and of comse. enjoy Indigenous delicacies. Minister Patterson was accompanied by Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams and the tw o participated in the activities with the residents of Nappi. Indigenous Heritage Month this year is being celebrated under the theme: "Our Culture, Earth's Future - Save the Environment, Live the Indigenous Way."

* -

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Ministry of Communities, Department of Housing, acting Finance Director Reyaz Abrahim (right), hands over the brush cutter to a resident of Nappi

Minister Valarie Patterson enjoys some Indigenous delicacies during her visit to Nappi, Region Nine

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

students

THE Ministry of Finance has announced that persons with student loans will be granted a 75 per cent reduction in the accumulated arrears of interest on their accounts if they clear their indebtedness in full by October 31. The Ministry in a release also said that persons who wish to bring their accounts up-to-date will be granted a 50 per cent reduction in the accumulated arrears of interest if their accounts are brought up-to-date by October 31. If. however, a borrower defaults, subsequently, the interest

Fmr.

get

loan

waived will be restored in full to the account, the release said. The Ministry noted that borrowers whose accounts were current for at least three years at July 31. 2016 will benefit from a 50 per cent reduction on all future interest once the account does not go into arrears. "If the account lapses into arrears, all interest waived will be restored." The Ministry further noted that borrowers whose accounts were current for at least two years at July 31. 2016. will re-

Deputy

ceive a 50 per cent reduction on the interest accumulated prior to the repayment due date of the loan. This reduction, it said will be given in the form of a monthly credit against future payments, but if the account goes into arrears, all interest waived will be restored to the account. "The Ministry of Finance urges all borrowers to visit the Student Loan Agency without delay to discuss repayment plans and how they can benefit from these offers," the release concluded.

CEO

disappears

off

waivers

GPL

radar

- Not in Canada as previously thought AESHWAR Deonarine, the former Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of the Guyana Power Light, has disappeared off the radar. Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan told reporters on Wednesday that Deonarine is not in Canada as was previously thought. The Minister said Canadian Police have been unsuccessful in locating Deonarine "but we now understand that he is not in Canada." Asked if he has any idea as to where the former GPL DCEO is currently, the Minister said. "I don't know." "I am certain he will go back to Canada, and under the Mutual Assistance Act they may very well send him back... [But]I don't know where he is." Under the Mutual Assistance Act, Guyana can seek assistance under the legislation to Commonwealth territories to locate a person believed to be involved in or was involved in criminal activities. Section 8 (1) of the Act applies to where reasonable ground exists that a person is in a commonwealth country and is or might be concerned in or affected by any criminal matter; or could give evidence or assistance relevant to any criminal matter.

'Grey

Boy'

Former Deputy CEO GPL, Aeshwar Deonarine Sub-section 2 speaks to a request which may be made to the Commonwealth country to assist in locating that person or if the person's identity is unknown, in identifying and locating that person.

freed

In February. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum told reporters that the wanted former GPL Deputy CEO is in Canada and efforts were afoot to seek his extradition to Guyana. In fact, the Guyana Police Force had said that it has contacted the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) to assist in locating Deonarine. Deonarine is wanted in connection with fraud. It is alleged that the former DCEO, along with President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) Carvil Duncan obtained $27.8M of GPL's money. The duo is accused of stealing money from the power company by paying themselves bonuses and transferring funds into their personal bank accounts without the approval of the board of directors of the company. Charges of conspiracy were laid against Deonarine earlier this year but were withdrawn. He was charged with Duncan for conspiring to commit a felony. Duncan was alone in court to defend his charge while Deonarine fled. The money was discovered missing after auditors were examining GPL's accounts relative to the PetroCaribe Fund.

of Alex Miller passes away

Crum-Ewing's

murder

A GEORGETOWN Magistrate Wednesday freed "Grey Boy," the man accused of the March, 2015 murder of political activist Courtney Crum-Ewing, arguing that while the gun used in the murder was found at his home, the prosecution failed to pin him to the murder. Regan Anthony Rodrigues (Grey Boy) was freed of the charge after Magistrate Judy Latchman accepted the no-case submission filed by his Attorney Adrian Thompson. In her ruling. Magistrate Latchman said that while she was satisfied that the gun. which was used to shoot Crum-Ewing was found at the home of the accused, the evidence offered by the prosecution did not implicate Rodrigues in the actual murder. As such, the Magistrate dismissed the murder charge against Rodrigues and informed him that he was a free man. Rodrigues. 37. is however still in prison as he is currently serving a three-year sentence at the Camp Street prison for escaping lawful custody. At the end of the Preliminary Inquiry on Friday last. Thompson made his no-case submission, noting that the Prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against Rodrigues. by being unable to establish that he committed the offence. The lawyer also noted that the Prosecution also failed to present to the court a witness who saw what had transpired when Crum-Ewing was murdered. According to Thompson, the other evidence presented to the court were insufficient to prove that a prima facie case had been established against Rodrigues.

FORMER senior public servant, Vibert Alexander —- i „ Miller, died in New York on Tuesday. He was 81. An MBA and City University of New York faculty member. Miller was among the overseas-based professionals who answered the call in the early 70s to return home and lend their talents to the development of the young nation. When the Guyana State Corporation (GUYSTAC) was created under the late Dr. Kenneth King. Miller was among the opening team of high-level recruits. And as Management Services Officer at the former Guyana Broadcasting Service (GBS) and other corporations, he served as the principal management liaison betw een GUYSTAC and those government agencies. Miller later led the marketing team at the Guyana Timh£_ bers Export Board before remigrating to the US. where he Alex Miller worked for several years with New York Telephone and NYNEX until his retirement. With several family members still living here. Alex paid his last visit home back in May for the 50th anniversary celebrations. He leaves to mourn his wife. Beverley. children David. Alicia Colin and Samantha. and four grandchildren. Funeral services for Alex will be on Sunday at Cadman Memorial Church, Brooklyn, NY.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Protecting

witnesses

.. lack of witness protection hurting govt's anti-corruption efforts THE absence of a witness protection plan has crippled the government's efforts to go after public officials who have allegedly stolen the state's finances and properties, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan has said. Minister Ramjattan told reporters on Friday that it is difficult for the government to take such matters before the courts as witnesses have refused to give written statements, because they are fearful for their lives. He said the lack of a witness protection plan for witnesses and their families is a major hurdle that the government is currently fighting, while noting that the Witness Protection Bill will be tabled in the National Assembly soon; but until then, there is nothing the administration can do. Last year, the APNU+AFC coalition government announced that it will be moving to establish a witness protection programme through the enactment of the Witness Protection Bill 2015. so as to bring the country on par with other CARICOM states. Minister of Governance at the time. Raphael Trotman. said the Bill would have been placed before the National Assembly after being reviewed by a sub-committee at Cabinet. "You can give a lot of the evidence to an auditor, but when it comes to criminal prosecutions, you have to do the written statements and some of these persons who have to give and testify when they know what the investigations are all about have been telling some of the police... that they are scared to death." he said. In many cases the minister said, the witnesses are friends of the suspects, making it even more difficult for them to come forward with the information. He said there are many stumbling blocks and noted that the witnesses had no issue providing information to the forensic auditors, but will not go beyond that. "You can give a lot of the evidence to an auditor, but when it comes to criminal prosecutions, you have to do the written statements and some of these persons who have to give and testify when they know what the investigations are all about have been telling some of the policemen — this is Guyana, they are scared to death and we do not have a witness protection plan." The Public Security Minister said his ministry is trying its best to "persuade these very vital witnesses who have the cogent, convincing evidence to please talk out in a statement." He noted that in order for evidence to be taken to the courts, it must be in writing and the witnesses must be prepared to give evidence in a court of law. "But they tell you all kinds of things...we are having a

multiplicity of reasons why some of them are not coming forward. You can't beat a person in the head to testily or give a police statement. They gave a lot of the statements to the forensic auditors and we have found the cormption in the PPP government." Ramjattan believes that once the stumbling block is overcome with the implementation of a witness protection plan, then certainly investigations will continue. "Some of them are overseas and complicate the issue.. .we don't know if there are extradition treaties with those countries they are living in. all of that complicates the issue." He said many investigations have been placed on the back

witnesses. The legislation is expected to establish safe houses, the granting of assistance to participants and the provision of new identities where necessary. Meanwhile, in the case of former Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, Minister Ramjattan said the situation has become complicated. He explained that he had written the Director of Public Prosecutions while in opposition on his alleged illegal spending of $4.5B from the Consolidated Fund and was told that the minister cannot be charged under the existing law. "...all of these are hurdles we have to cross. They are

,.J

burner as witnesses are uncomfortable going public. With the enactment of the Witness Protection Bill, a Witness Protection Programme will be established for the protection of witnesses who give evidence in the courts of Guyana. "The legislation would ensure protection of witnesses and their families against intimidation and/or physical harm during and after their involvement in court proceedings." Minister Trotman said. Over the years, the protection of witnesses in criminal matters has been a troublesome issue and resulted in a number of high-profile cases being thrown out of court due to lack of

saying that in the Act only officers within the ministry could be charged, not a minister. We do have hurdles... these are some of the things we have to go over because this is a ruleof-law country- it is governed by rales." declared Ramjattan. While in opposition, he had complained to the Guyana Police Force against the former Finance Minister over what he deemed to be the illegal spending of money from the Consolidated Fund. The matter was taken before the High Court by President David Granger while he was Opposition Leader and former Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang had ruled that spending of the $4.5B was unconstitutional.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

7% 'Y/X c

TAURUS (Apr. 21 - May 21) You can make adjustments in your domestic scene this week. Do things with your children and avoid situations that make you feel as if you've neglected the ones you love. Secret enemies may be holding a grudge that you're not even aware of. Business partnerships should turn out to be quite lucrative. Your lucky day next week will be Wednesday. GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Your communication skills may win you points. Think before you act. Limitations at work might set you back. You will have problems with coworkers if you arc too extreme about doing things perfectly. Your lucky day next week will be Monday. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Be sure you get accurate information. Sudden changes regarding work and colleagues are apparent. Don't trust a deal that looks too good, or a lover who appears to have it all. Do not lend money or belongings to friends. Your lucky day next week will be Friday. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Be aware that joint financial ventures could fall apart. This is probably causing upset and confusion on the home front. You hard work and dedication will payoff, so stick to your guns and do your job well. Your partner could make you angry if they steal your thunder or embarrass you in front of others. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Children will want to help, too. You are best not to discuss your personal life with others. You will gain new friends if you get involved in environmental issues. The experience will be good. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

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SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Physical limitations are possible if you aren't careful. You need to be inspired and have your spirits lifted. Be supportive in order to avoid confrontations. You might not accomplish all that you want to at home this week. Your lucky day next week will be Wednesday.

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Your ability to relate will close the generation gap. You can solidify your relationship if you plan a special evening with your mate. You can look around for the right place and enlist some of your friends to help you move. Luck is with you. Your lucky day next week will be Thursday PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) Don't be too eager to dismiss someone who works under you. Try to channel your energy into professional endeavors. Changes in your home may be alarming at first. Don't try to deal with important issues or make changes that will upset the apple cart. Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

N G

□ CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan. 20) Get together with friends and catch up on reading and letter writing. Be careful that you don't spend too much time with a person belonging to someone else. Accept the inevitable. Travel will promote romantic connections. Your lucky day next week will be Monday.

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O N L E £ Ai 1 R £ G b

OM E B O D Y A Xi I £ O.MHA M E RMRACE H FBB I N RWN M F > ■■■ 43 44 Neither hide hair 1r 9. Deli sandwich letters 6 47 48 49 50 51 52 10. New-style LPs 3 54 55 12. Infuriates ■ ■ 6 57 15. Opposite of pos. 58 16. These are exchangee at the ■ altar (2 wds.) ACROSS 38. Maiden name 19. True blue 1. NYC summer indicator 20. Greek letter setting 39. Wood planks 4. Troubled strip of 22. Singer Summer 41. Singe Israel 43. Environmental org. 23. Proposal 8. CBS rival 45. "Oh, give _ 24. Gent 11. Summer zodiac sign home..." (2 wds.) 25. Perfect ratings 12. Zodiac sign 46. Actions at the 27. Follower (suffix) 13. Aged Oscars 28. Playmate 14. Lumberjacks' tops, 53. German article 29. Lackland, e.g. (abbr.) often (2 wds.) 54. John Quincy 33. Gem faces 17. Custard ingredient 55. Despair 36. Holy Fr. women 18. Actor Danson 56. Eggy Yule favorite 40. Deliver an address 19. Theater box 57. Actress Sedgwick 42. "Bali 21. Sin city of the Bible 58. Wind dir. 44. "The _ Griffith Show" 25. Actor Hanks DOWN 45. Doll's word 26. TV's Kelly 1. Fantasy forest friend 46. Hutch 30. Love seat 2. Singer Shannon 47. River in Mexico 31. Ogle 3. "Prelude _ Kiss" 48. Manchester's locale (abbr.) 32 Personnel (2 wds.) 49. Road goo 34. Football league 4. Diver Louganis 50. Have the rights to letters 5. Feel sick 51. Negative prefix 35. Carps constantly 6. Enthusiasm 52. Embroider 37. Exile island 7. Timber trees 9

F SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Dealing with foreigners will be most enlightening. Take time to catch up on overdue correspondence. Try to stay calm and do the best you can. Your emotional reaction will be dependent upon your partner's responsiveness. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday.

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T LIBRA (Sept 24 - Oct. 23) Get into some activities that will help you in making new friends. Involvement in financial schemes will be followed by losses. Don't get talked into get rich quick schemes. If it can make you extra cash, it will be even better. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

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New Yorti Ghroilcb Hortsco m ARIES (Mar. 21 - April 20) Don't press your luck with your loved ones. You willmeet exciting new people through interest groups or functions that you attend with your children. Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you. Look into ways that you can make extra cash. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

(from page 7)

standing in some other Electoral College rich state now firmly in her column and Trump has the chance of a snowball in Hell to win: California: +33% = 55 ECV New York: +18%= 29 ECV Illinois: +15% = 20 ECV The rest of New England: +10% on average = 27 ECV

plurality winner - wins all of the electoral votes from that state. The two exceptions are Nebraska and Maine that do not use a winner-take-all system. Instead, these states allow for a split among the electoral votes according to the number of votes each candidate receives and how the votes are distributed. Now on to the math based NOT on so called Republican "red states" or Democratic "blue states'" - so called safe states but on where the elections will be determined - battleground or as I like to call them "swing states." So no matter what the CNN/ORC poll claims, on a national level the reality is that these polls account for diddley squat. The REAL place where Americans should be focused 60- days to November 8 is on these swing/battleground states. Let me offer an objective and blunt electoral cautionary tale: Donald Trump, CNN/ ORC et al, could manufacture poll numbers, jigger results, and so everything to confuse and divide American voters but unless he wins Llorida AND Pennsylvania he has NO PATH to the 270 Electoral College votes necessary and needed to win the White House. That said, the followings is where Hillary Clinton leads (conservatively) in the polls (percentage points) against Donald Trump and her projected standing in terms

The math gives Clinton 281 Electoral College votes, 11 above the needed 270 to win. Even if she doesn't run the above table, she has Maryland's 10 ECV, the District's three, Delaware's three. New Jersey's 14, Washington's 12, Oregon's 7 and New Mexico's 5 in column bank to shore up the lead. Thus, these swing-state-by-state numbers expose the CNN/ORC latest national poll as not only a manufactured-for-ratings technique, but an outright dishonest untruth designed to confuse the American people simply to tap into the huge mountain of campaign money now floating around in the last stages of the 2016 US Presidential Elections.

HILLARY R. CLINTON New Hampshire +4% = 4 ECV North Carolina +1% = 15 ECV Ohio+1% = 18 ECV Pennsylvania; +4% = 20 ECV Virginia: +6% = 13 ECV Wisconsin: +4% = 10 ECV Let's also go to the math on Clinton's

of numbers in the Electoral College Vote (ECV); Colorado: +4% = 9 ECV Florida: +2% = 29 ECV Michigan: +5% = 16 ECV Minnesota: +5% = 10 ECV Nevada +3% = 6 ECV

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Panel

Discussion

panel discussion was held at Melgar Evers College on Thursday September 8,2016 on the subject: "Caribbean-USA Dias-L. ^kpom: Priorities and Convergence." Panellists were Lowell Hawthorne, President and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill; Juan Gonzalez, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Central America and the Caribbean, US Department of State and Dr. Sheilah Paul, Associate Dean of the School of Liberal Arts & Education at Medgar Evers College. Moderator was well-known Carib News columnist, Tony Best. At the beginning of the discus- succeed in business one must put sion the moderator, Tony Best out- people first, invest in human capital and promote community initiatives. by Handel Andrews The motto for his business is: lined the reason for the discussion "Drive, Discipline and Desire." introduced the panelists and outAsst. Secretary Juan Gonzalez lined their expertise. spoke briefly on "US priorities in the The first panelist, Lowell Caribbean." He said that immigration Hawthorne of Golden Krust spoke is one of the strongest contributing on the topic, Entrepreneur ship. He factors to America's greatness. The traced his success to God, hard US is greatly concerned about secuwork, family and the belief that one rity and energy in the Caribbean. can be whatever one wants to be. "The Caribbean has some of the "Do not bother with the naysayers" world's highest energy costs. We he said. At one stage in his life he have given billions of dollars to help was on social assistance and lived in solve this problem." Mr. Gonzalez a project. "Now, I am the largest said that the US is partnering with the manufacturer of Jamaican patties in Caribbean to fight gang violence, the USA. I got my franchise license drug trafficking and crime in general. 20 years ago." The final panelist was Dr. Mr. Hawthorne said that to Sheilah Paul. She concentrated on

Medgar

Evers

Did

you

receive

iHlki

llV 1 the need for the Caribbean to improve its special education programs, especially the ones for young people with disabilities. Education and services to these young people are mostly provided by faith-based assemblies. She said that most teachers do not possess the skills to teach children with disabilities, so governments need to step up their programs for providing these teachers with the necessary skill ." A short video on the Caribbean diaspora was shown. It focussed on

your

Tax

ment, Everson stated that the IRS will put in place procedures to notify taxpayers when then- refunds arc frozen. The IRS COMMISSIONER SPEAKS OUT also had planned to change its screening Former IRS Commissioner Mark Everprocess to minimize the number of taxpayers whose refunds are frozen unnecessarily. The program freezes rePlace Your Advertisement in this paper funds that are potentially fraudulent. But the IRS AND SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW doesn't notify taxpayers that their returns are We offer affordable rates being investigated. If taxpayers call to inquire, IRS employees are usuWE ALSO INVITE PROMOTERS TO ADVERTISE ally barred from providing any information for THEIR EVENTS WITH US. six months after a taxpayer's inquiry. While fraudulent refunds unCall Dennis Nelson @ dermine the integrity of the tax system, "Appropriate notification (917) 379-6590 should be given when refunds have been frozen, since honest taxor email him @ payers expecting a refund deserve to be dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com treated fairly." Everson said. Following Everson's anTo Secure Your Place In This Paper nouncement it is the (from page 17) inquired about their refunds.

son once said that he has ordered the IRS to review a controversial anti-fraud program that freezes refunds for hundreds of thousands of mostly low-income taxpayers without their knowledge. In a state-

IL!

[' LH

Caribbean persons integrating into the American system. Several persons shared their experiences. Dr. Rudy Crew, President of Medgar Evers, thanked the attendees. He said that the partnership between Medgar Evers College and the U.S. Department of State, in hosting these kind of forums, is an example of the kind of collaborations and networks between public, private and civic organizations that forums such as this one hoped to foster.

Refund? consensus of most tax experts that the IRS should focus on the following priorities :(1) Providing prompt notification to taxpayers whose refunds have been frozen. (2) Allowing taxpayers whose refunds have been frozen to present evidence supporting their refund claims. (3) Reducing the number of refunds frozen in error; and processing frozen-refund cases more quickly. PRIVATE DEBT COLLECTION On December 4, 2015, President Obama signed into law the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act, or "FAST Act." It provides Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to use private debt collection companies. Under current law, IRS already has the authority to use private debt collection companies to locate and contact taxpayers owing outstanding tax liabilities and to arrange payment of those taxes. Also the IRS would now deduct owed taxes from Social Security payments without sufficient review, causing undue burden on a vulnerable population of taxpayers. "It is always better to have information and not need it than to need it and not have it."

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 16, 2016

Love

Knights,

labour:

the

sky

For

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- Guyanese couple hailed for renovating 110-year-old house in Atlanta Elisabeth grew up with her single-parent mother, Cecily Jackman, in Georgetown, Guyana, in a wood frame house — "similar to a cabin" — sitting on a concrete slab covered with a vinyl floor. (Rockdale Citizen, Atlanta) Renovating a HO-year-old house on Smyrna Road in Conyers, Elisabeth and Colin Knights have converted inside doorways to arches, built laundry and pantry niches in the Idtchen, added a bathroom by inserting a wall in the dining room, hung drywall and painted walls. They redid the wiring and plumbing. "The crawl space under the house is about 12 inches." Colin said of the plumbing ordeal. That is down-and-dirty work, no doubt about it. They subcontract when necessary, but the Knights claim they do 75 percent of the labor performed by their Conyers company. Aklipse Asset Management Inc. "There was a bam back there we had to take down. We hired a guy to do it." Elisabeth said, pointing to the back end of the Smyrna Road lot. which includes a sightly wooded area. They also contracted out the new roofing, but everything else is being done by the industrious couple. They work long days — 10. 12 hours or longer. "We're coming to the end. so we'll push even harder." Colin said. Neighbors have stopped and expressed gratitude that they are renovating the house. Elisabeth noted. In fact a brother and sister. Julian Anderson and Jan Kirkpatrick. showed up one day. said the house was their grandparents' home and pointed out where they played as children and which room their dad occupied as a child. "They both started crying — they were so happy to see we were giving the house new life." Elisabeth said. "I was so afraid that it would just be torn down as so many older homes are." Kirkpatrick said. "You are giving it new life, and to me that is a precious thing." "It's nice when someone comes by like that and gives the history of the house. Each house has a story." Elisabeth said. "I got their phone numbers and told them when we finished I'd call them and have them come back to see it." The Knights have built Aklipse Asset Management from scratch to a company

valued at $4.1 million. They have purchased more than 40 houses in metro Atlanta and Florida for renovation and sale or lease, including tw o houses in Covington and several in Conyers. including their own. "We're revitalizing neighborhoods. one house at a time." Colin said. "We've given ourselves the education to do everything in-house." Elisabeth said. That includes the constraction. real estate and administration parts of the business.

godmother. Donna Eraser, a teacher in New York City. She worked as a cashier in a jewelry store to meet expenses. She credits her mother for setting a good example for work ethic. Jackman worked for a constraction company and made extra money with little businesses on the side, such as preparing lunches for sale to coworkers. Colin spent his early childhood in Georgetown, but his family moved to Washington. D.C.. when he was 12

found himself at a barbecue party that he initially didn't want to attend. While he sat around with others, someone coming through the front gate caught his eye. "I watched her every move as she was weaving dnough the crowd." he recalled. Elisabeth also had not wanted to attend the party. "A friend of mine invited me. and I thought I'd go quick, say hi and leave early. But when I saw Colin, it was like the world stopped." "It was a magical feeling on both sides." Colin agreed. They ended up talking past midnight. Colin returned to Miami, established a second constmction business and. determined

to get Elisabeth close by. set up an apartment for her in Nassau. Bahamas, while he worked to get her a visa to come to the U.S. During a year's delay with the visa process. Colin visited Elisabeth every weekend in Nassau, where they married. They exchanged vows at a courthouse, had a spaghetti dinner and walked on the beach. "When I was 14 I had my big wedding all planned out for when I met Mr. Right." Elisabeth said. "This was beautifully simple, and it didn't matter. What mattered was it was the right guy." Since Elisabeth couldn't attend college in Nassau. Colin brought her a laptop and

books, and she engaged in intense self-study. When the visa was approved. Elisabeth came to the U.S. for the first time in her life. The airplane arrived in Miami at night and the seemingly endless lights of the Florida coastal megalopolis dazzled her. "It was like a science fiction movie. It was like I was transported to another planet." she said. In 2009 the couple moved to Conyers and started the work that eventually became Aklipse Asset Management. When Elisabeth got off after working two jobs, she and Colin spent several hours slipping flyers under doors to promote the business.

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ds — Demonstrating their daily grind, Colin and Elisabeth work in the living room of an old house. (Wade Marbaugh photo) However, initially they did all of the work themselves. That was the toughest part of the journey from humble beginnings to success. Elisabeth grew up with her single-parent mother. Cecily Jackman. in Georgetown, Guyana, in a wood frame house — "similar to a cabin" — sitting on a concrete slab covered with a vinyl floor. Guyana is perched on the northeast coast of South America, north of Brazil and sandwiched betw een Venezuela on the west and Suriname to the east. Dreaming that one day she would rise above her destitute living conditions by owning a shop. Elisabeth managed to get into a local college with financial assistance from her

years old. There, the family lived in a triplex, with a separate family on each of the three floors of the house. Joining his older brothers in constraction work at age 14. Colin found his niche. "Building things became my passion" he said. He also worked as a cashier. "The more we worked the more we ate." he said. His parents. Charles and Margaret Knights, set the example of how hard work is necessary to make ends meet. Colin's entrepreneurial spirit led to success as a constraction contractor, and he moved to Miami to pursue his business. In April 2005. while in Guyana visiting grandparents, friends and family. Colin

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iI ...hopes to achieve UFC dream

Suraj Persaud

By Daniel Haynes FIGHTING out of Kai's Next Level MMA Gym in Queens, New York, one man is looking to put Guyana on the world stage by kicking and punching his way into the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). That man is 35-year-old Suraj Persaud, who has started his journey. Persaud was initially a Shotokan Karate student who dreamed of following in the footsteps of his uncle, father and brother, to become a black belt. However, the Guyanese bom-and-bred Persaud migrated to the United States and upon not being able to find a Shotokan school, picked up Brazilian JuJitsu. From there the transition to Muay Thai (another style of fighting) was almost automatic and quite quickly, Persaud was in the gym, training to be a Mixed Martial Artist. According to the fighter, the difference between Traditional Karate and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) was huge. "With traditional karate, the focus is on scoring points through single hits, while with MMA. it is more of a controlled street fight and wherever the fight goes we have to go as well," stated Persuad. "Tm now 35. and I've only been practising Muay thai for 1 year, and some of the guys out here have been training for the 'UFC all their lives." When asked about the level of commitment required in addition to balancing the life and requirements of the sport, he was quick to answer. "Once my personal life is taken care of before 6 pm I'm good. I usually train as much as I can to be in the best shape that I can be in." he stated. "On Fridays I try to spend maximun hours training." he added. Despite the challenges he is facing especially with the daunting reality of his age. Persaud is still optimistic about getting to the UFC. "The process to get to the UFC isn't an easy one. You have to be discovered through fighting at your local gym. and it is there your record comes into play. The better your record, the more UFC scouts notice you and you get your opportunity." Being on the amateur circuit is the beginning of the process for Persaud. His next fight will be in December, where he will be required to get to 145 pounds. He is hoping that at this bout, he can show what he is capable of doing.

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