Guyana chronicle new york edition 10 27 2017

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ISSUE No. 73

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 27, 2017

Guyana’s CG Extends Diwali greetings at Borough Hall Page 3

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Justice Delayed is Justice Denied Page 4

President stands his ground Page 16

GRDB fraud case...

GBTI directors, CEO charged --released on selfbail for contempt of court

Guyana’s Consul General to New York, Hon. Barbara Atherly and Queens Borough President, Hon. Melinda Katz in the Helen Marshall Cultural Center, Queens Borough Hall last Wednesday, Oct. 20 at the fourth Annual Diwali celebration. (picture by Tangerine Clarke)

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West Indian Cricketers Page 5 Who Scored 100 in Test Debut

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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STATEMENT BY GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE PNCR ON THE PRESIDENT’S APPOINTMENT OF GECOM’S CHAIRPERSON

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is Excellency President David Granger’s action to unilaterally appoint Justice (Retired) James Patterson as the new Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was clearly within his constitutional power and duty as President of the Cooperative Re-

public of Guyana, given that the Opposition failed to submit a nominee that was acceptable for the position. The President over the past few months have made valiant efforts to consult and have open dialogue with the Leader of the Opposition and members of the political opposition

regarding the requirements as stipulated under the constitution for the selection of nominees for the position of the GECOM Chairperson. Unfortunately, the three separate list of nominees that the Opposition Leader, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo submitted over the past few months proved to be unacceptable for the

Hon. Amna Ally, MP General Secretary, PNCR

post of GECOM Chair. According to the Constitution, the President has the discretion to determine the person who is duly qualified for the position and has a duty to appoint that person. Justice (Retired) James Patterson has been deemed to be fit for the post in accordance with Article 161 (2) of the Constitution which states: “the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission shall be a person who holds or who has held office as a Judge of a Court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a Court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such Court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such Judge.” The comments made by opposition leader, Mr. Jagdeo for all to adopt a non-cooperative approach with Government is reckless and threatens the stability of our democracy. We urge all Guyanese to deter from any such action and let us all work together for the betterment of this great nation of ours. We look forward to the commencement of work in preparation for Local Government Elections in 2018 given the lengthy delay in appointment of the Chairman. Hon. Amna Ally, MP General Secretary People’s National Congress Reform Congress Place, Sophia Georgetown, Guyana Tuesday 24th October 2017

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

Guyana’s Consul General to New York Extend Diwali greetings at Queens Borough Hall I

n a message of love, hope, family and country, Consul General to New York, the Hon. Mrs. Barbara Atherly, told an audience at Queens Borough Hall on Tuesday, October 24, that Diwali “must instill in us a positive resolve to love life, love our families, love our communities, and love our dear homeland, Guyana” during her reflections of the festival, that represents good over evil. The Consul General, who assumed the office just over a year ago, received a warm welcome from the Hindu community, at the Fourth Annual Diwali celebration, in the Helen

By TANGERINE CLARKE

Marshall Cultural Center — named after former Borough President, Hon. Helen Marshall, who was of Guyanese heritage, and passed away earlier this year. CG Atherly brought greetings from the President and Government of the Republic of Guyana and the consulate staff, to the celebration that was attended by nationals from around the world, sharing greetings in the spirit of the festival, she said: “Greetings to our Hindu brothers and sisters and all Guyanese, on the surface, the celebration of Diwali focuses on the lighting of diyas, food, sweets and the exchange of gifts and enjoyment. However, there is a deeper significance to the Diwali

festival and we should all be encouraged to develop an understanding of its history. This could definitely add to the charm of the festivity. “The festival of Diwali or the festival of Lights, as it is also called, is of special religious significance to Hindus but we can all learn from the example of Lord Rama. “Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama after 14 years in exile. To welcome his return and to light his path, ‘diyas’ were lit. The mythical stories told for Diwali vary regionally in the traditions of Hinduism. “Yet, they all point to joy and the celebration with lights as a reminder of the importance of knowledge, self inquiry, self-improvement, knowing and actively seeking the good and right path,” The Consul General also said: “It is a metaphor for resisting evil, for dispelling darkness and for showing compassion to others. Diwali is the celebration of the inner light over spiritual darkness, of knowledge

Consul General to New York, Hon. Mrs. Barbara Atherly addresses a Diwali audience in the Helen Marshall Cultural Center at Queens Borough Hall.

over ignorance, right over wrong and hope over despair. It is a festive restatement of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.”

Mrs. Atherly who was complimented for her steadfast commitment to the Guyanese community, continues to play a pivotal role in brining consular services to the Diaspora, she recently hosted an outreach in Schenectady, upstate New York, where a large Guyanese population reside. “This year, as we participate in

Consul General to New York, Hon. Mrs. Barbara Atherly (second from left) join Hon. Melinda Katz, Queens Borough President along with Consul Generals of Nepal Madhu Kumar Marasini and Consul General of Bangladesh Shameem Ahsan, to congratulate honorees, Dilip Nath and Jarnail Singh in the Helen Marshall Cultural Center. (pictures by Tangerine Clarke)

various events, light your diyas and admire the sparkling light that shines so brightly from them, let us see our lives as lights shining forth to brighten the world around us.

“Let us be the example that good will always triumph over evil. Diwali is a celebration of life itself and the lights and diyas represent hope for all humankind, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

“Let us be the light we want to see in others”, Mrs. Atherly concluded

Consul General to New York Hon. Mrs. Barbara Atherly with Guyaneseborn, Mr. Mohamed Hack and Police Officer Khyume Khan in the Helen Marshall Cultural Center in Queens Borough Hall.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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JUSTICE DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED

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hen President David Granger came to the United Nations General Assembly, a few weeks ago, he was under the impression that the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, would refer the Guyana/Venezuela Border controversy to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). But as the Scottish poet, Robert Burns said, “the best-laid plans of mice and men oft go astray.” There is no official record of the conversation between the Secretary General of the United Nations and the President of Guyana, but the failure of President Granger to state to the nation that the Secretary General intended to refer the border controversy to the ICJ, was not good news. It is the consensus of opinion in the International community, that the Secretary General told the President that the United Nations Good Officer Process would continue for another year. This was a bitter disappointment, not only to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge and the President of Guyana, David Granger, but to the entire Guyana delegation, and to Guyana’s allies in Caricom and the Commonwealth. The request for judicial settlement of the border controversy was not a unique strategy conceived by Granger and Greenidge. It was a proposal that was incorporated in the Geneva Agreement of 1966, which states under Article VI, Subsection 1 of the Geneva Agreement that “if within a period of four years from the date of this agreement, the mixed commission should not have arrived at a full agreement for the solution of the controversy, it shall in its final report, refer to the government of Guyana and the government of Venezuela any outstanding questions. Those governments shall without delay choose one of the means of peaceful settlement provided in Article 33 of the Charter of the United Nations. Article 33 of the Charter identifies the methods of peaceful solutions, as follows: negotiation, inquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and judicial settlement. (Emphases added) The first Guyanese elected official to advocate judicial settlement, was Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodigues-Birkett, who on December 22, 2014, announced that Guyana was considering a number of options, including judicial settlement, to resolve the border controversy, between Guyana and Venezuela. She said that the United Nations Good Officer Process (GOP) had yielded little benefit during the last two decades. She added that a decision on the future course of action on the land boundary controversy will be taken during 2015, and that if Guyana decided on judi-

cial action, that will almost certainly be done by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Before referring the matter to the International Court of Justice, the aggrieved

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party must prove that it has exhausted all of the procedural steps articulated in Article 33. In the Venezuela/Guyana border controversy, Guyana can establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that it has exhausted all of the procedural steps articulated in Article 33. • Negotiations. In 1966, the Guyana government and Venezuela executed the Geneva Agreement under which the parties established a mixed commission to examine the documents produced at the Arbitral Tribunal Hearing of 1899 in order to validate Venezuela’s claim of nullity. While this strategy was regarded by Guyana as a peaceful settlement of the dispute, Venezuela cynically regarded it as a re-litigation of the border dispute. While Guyana insisted that the Arbitral Award of 1899 was a “full, perfect and final settlement of the dispute,” Venezuela has insisted, without any documentary evidence, that the Award of 1899 was null and void. • Reconciliation. In 1970, President Raphael Caldera of Venezuela executed a 12-year moratorium on the Venezuela claim against Guyana, called the Protocol of Portof-Spain. When the Protocol expired in 1982, President Caldera refused to renew it. The parties then decided, under Article IV of the Geneva Agreement to refer the controversy to the Secretary General of the United Nations. • Mediation. Between 1990 and September 2017, the Secretary Generals of the United Nations, appointed as their personal representatives —- Dr. Alistair McIntire, a former Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies and Secretary General of Caricom, Oliver Jackman, a former High Court Judge from Barbados, Dr. Norman Girvan, a former economics professor from the University of the West Indies, and a former Secretary General of the Association of Caribbean States, and Dag Halvor Nylander, a Swedish Diplomat and the present representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations. As Minister Rodrigues Birkett said, on December 22, 2014, the United Nations Good Officer Process has

failed to produce any significant benefits during the last two decades. The bilateral negotiations between Guyana and Venezuela during the years 1966 and 2017 had failed to yield any significant diplomatic benefits. The mixed commissions set up in 1966 had gone out in existence in 1970, and during the years 1966-2016, Venezuela had initiated a series of military provocations, which had threatened the territorial sovereignty of Guyana. • On October 12, 1966, Venezuelan armed forces had annexed by force the Guyana portion of Ankoko Island. • In January 1969, Venezuela provided military training and equipment to a group of rebels in the Rupununi Savanah, who sought to secede from Guyana. Venezuela refused to extradite the rebels to Guyana, claiming that they were born in the Zona de Reclamation and were, therefore, Venezuelan citizens. • In the year 2000, President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela threatened to invade Guyana to prevent an American company called Beale Industries from establishing a satellite launching station in the hinterlands of Guyana. • On October 14, 2013, units of the Venezuelan navy stopped, boarded and apprehended an American contracted oil rig called the MV Tefnik Perdana drilling in Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and towed the vessel to a Venezuela port on Margarita Island. • On May 27, 2013, President Maduro of Venezuela enacted an Executive Order claiming that Venezuela owns all of Guyana’s Maritime space, west of the Essequibo River. • In 2017, Venezuela is claiming that the Lisa and Payara oil wells being explored by Exxon Mobil in Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) lies within Venezuela’s Maritime Territory. Guyana strongly disputes this spurious claim, and has authorized the companies to continue exploration and drilling. It is anticipated that the massive oil reserves off Guyana’s Atlantic Coast will be a significant cause of conflict between Guyana and Venezuela in the future. Guyana strongly feels that the only way to resolve this dispute is to refer this matter to the International Court of Justice. Venezuela has been given 50 years to produce documentary evidence to validate its bogus claim that the Arbitral Award of 1899 is null and void. Venezuela so far, failed to produce any scintilla of evidence to validate its claim of nullity. Guyana contends that: 1) based on the common law principle of Res Judicata; 2) the failure of Venezuela to produce any documentary evidence to support its claim of nullity, and, 3) The validity of the Schomburg Line, showing that there were no Spanish settlements on the Guyana/Venezuela frontier in 1899, while there was abundant evidence documenting Dutch and British settlements in the northwest region of Guyana. Based on these contentions, Guyana feels that it will prevail in the International Court of Justice.

By Colin A. Moore

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

The Handel Andrews Column

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T TH HE E H HI IS ST TO ORY RY PA PAG GE E

West Indian cricketers Who scored 100 in Test Debut

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cricket hundred is a dream for a batsman. In some cases, it is a signal of things to come. Making 100 on a Test debut is a once in a life-time event. West Indies boast 13 players to reach this milestone: Lawrence Rowe, George Headley, Andy Ganteaume, Bruce Pairaudeau, Collie Smith, Conrad Hunte Alvin Kallicharran, Gordon Greenidge, Leonard Baichan, Basil Williams, Dwayne Smith, Adrian Barath and Kirk Edwards. This article discusses the first eight players. LAWRENCE ROWE Lawrence George (Yagga) Rowe was born January 8, 1949 at Whitfield Town, Kingston, Jamaica. Michael Holding said that “he was the best batsman I ever saw. A statement endorsed by no lesser than Malcolm Marshall. Owing to illness — he tore a ligament while fielding against Australia in Trinidad in 1973, discovered he had astigmatism the following year, broke his left hand in 1977 and injured his shoulder in England in 1980 and throughout suffered from a grass allergy — he only played 30 Tests and many argue that if he dad been able to play 70 more, he should have been the greatest West Indies batsman. Apart from illness, one thing deprived Lawrence from playing more matches for the West Indies. In 1983, he led a “rebel tour” to South Africa, which also ended the careers of Collis King, Alvin Kallicharan and Colin Croft. Lawrence Rowe was ostricised in his native Jamaica and migrated to Florida. Politics aside, his record speaks to his greatness. In his Test debut in 1972 against New Zealand at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica. In the first inning, he scored 214 and 100 not out in the second. It remains the first time a double and a single century was scored in a Test debut. “On March 10, 1974 Lawrece Rowe sculpted what was arguably the most elegant Test triple hundred of all time.” This was the 302 he scored against England at Kensington Oval in Barbados.

GEORGE HEADLEY OD George Alphonso Headley, known as the Black Bradman, was born at Colon, Panama on May 30, 1909. He was raised in Jamaica, where he died November 30. 1983. He played 22 Test matches, mostly before WW2. Neville Carduus once called Bradman “the White Headley.” Throughout his career he was the only world class player on the West Indies team. A writer for ESPN cricinfo notes: “The Black Bradman, George Headley was unstoppable at every level of the game, making runs with a style and brilliance few have ever matched, and setting the standards for generations of West Indian players to follow.” He made 100 in his Test debut in 1932, against England in Barbados. In 1939, at Lord’s against England, He was the first player to score a century in both innings there. The measure of his greatness is that

he never had a bad Test series from 19291939. Sir Len Hutton said of this great player: he declared he had never seen a batsman play the ball later. It was hard to

LAWRENCE ROWE

GEORGE HEADLEY

set a field for him; such was his genius for collecting runs with his precise placement of the ball. Batting Statistics He played 22 Test matches, scored 2,190 runs with 19 100s and an average of 60.83, the fourth highest average in Test cricket after Sir Donald Bradman (99.94), A.C Voges (60.87) and R. G. Pollock (60.97).

teaume January 22, 1921 in Belmont, Trinidad and Tobago and died February 17, 2016. He was a significant casualtyof the time when the motto of his country might well have been: “If you are White, you’re all right, if you’re Brown stick around; but if you are Black, stay back. Much has not been written about Andy, because he played in only one Test match. Tony Cozier put it this way: “Andy Ganteaume's is not a name numbered among the great West Indies batsmen. His peculiar distinction is based on

ANDY GANTeAUME BRUCE PAIRADEAU

the instructive circumstances of his exclusion after scoring a hundred in his solitary Test innings, against England in 1948 in his native Trinidad, and, equally bizarrely, his selection on the tour of England nine years later, when he was 36. Even with West Indies cricket in its constant state of turmoil, it is impossible to imagine such a scenario in the present day. Ganteaume, a Black civil servant, was a popular sportsman in Trinidad, a regular player in the national cricket and football teams. Yet he had no players' as-

sociation to represent his cause, no indignant public to protest on social media, no team-mates to raise a hue and cry on his behalf. That was how it was back when a White hierarchy held sway in every aspect of life in the cricket-playing British colonies; it would only change over the next two decades with the advent of political independence. He played one Test match 1947-48 England versus West Indies series in the West Indies scoring 112 runs with an average of 112, the highest in cricket. I have always wondered why C. L. R. James, who tirelessly fought for Frank Worrell to become captain, has never spoken out against Ganteaume’s treatment. BRUCE PAIRADEAU He was born Bruce Hamilton Pairaudeau in Georgetown, Guyana on April 14, 1931. Often used as an opening batsman for the West Indies, he made his Test debut on January 1, 1953 against India at Kensington Oval. He was the only Guyanese in the team and one of three who made their first appearance. The others were Frank King, the Barbadian fast bowler and Alfie Binns, the Jamaican wicket-keeper. A record crowd of 22,000 watched Bruce make 115. He became the third West Indian to score a century on first appearance. George Headley and Andy Gendarme had done this earlier. In this match, he batted number six, because Sir Frank Worrell and Sir Clyde Walcott opened the inning. At this position, he

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Editorial President’s appointment of the GECOM Chair NOT unexpectedly, there is divided opinion of the President’s decision to unilaterally appoint the chair of GECOM. After all, when it comes to politics, ours is an acutely divided society—a division that is compounded by our ethnic divide. This is a condition that has been with us since the splits of the independence movement in 1955 and 1956 and shows little sign of decline. In fact, some observers have argued that our country is much more divided today than at any time in our recent history. Indeed, the very outcome of the process to select the GECOM chairperson, to a large extent, reflects the difficulty in managing that divide. To understand how we got to the point where the President felt compelled to break with tradition and appoint the chair on his own, one should reflect on our larger political process. As in any other country, elections in Guyana are a high-stakes undertaking. Hence, the mechanism used to oversee those elections and the staffing of the institution to do so are highly contested. At the end of the day, our Elections Commission is party-centred—the members are appointed by the political parties. In such circumstances, one cannot expect independent, collective decision-making and given our sharp political divide, there is little chance of bi-partisanship. So, the chairperson becomes a pivotal process. This officer is expected to play a mediatory role and to be an impartial arbiter. Since citizens generally have partisan biases, the challenge has always been to find someone with the courage to perform that function in a manner that is satisfactory to both sides of the political aisle. By the time we got to the 1990s and the return of free and fair elections, there was the general acknowledgement that the mechanism previously used to select the chairperson was flawed, in that it was not premised on meaningful input by all the political parties involved. So, at the urging of President Jimmy Carter, the political parties of that time accepted a formula whereby the opposition Leader after consultation with other opposition parliamentary parties, presents the sitting president with a list of nominees from which he may choose one.

Guyana Chronicle New York Week-ending September Guyana Chronicle New Edition York Edition week ending October29, 27,2017 2017

Term limits on the presidency

THE People’s Progressive Party has to disregard the constitutional question that is in the public domain on whether a person could serve as President of the Republic of Guyana for more than two terms. This contribution ignored whether that question was settled law or not and chose to look at the dilemma of the PPP from both perspectives. If the question is already settled law and no one can serve as President for more than two terms, (consecutive or otherwise) then this craziness that we get exposed to every day, in Parliament, in the newspapers and on television with Bharrat Jagdeo should stop right now. On the other hand, if the question is already settled law and a person can serve as President for more than two terms, then the circus being ring-mastered by Bharrat Jagdeo should also stop right now, and here is why. While Jagdeo was serving his two terms as President, Guyana was moving into the Digital/Information Age where it is required that participants conform to many written and

unwritten rules of conduct – ethical, moral, political, cultural, social, etc. and where societies became more and more knowledge-based – and perhaps he and his party never noticed or believed that Guyana and Guyanese could choose to stand proudly in a world where things were done because they just felt right ethically, morally, politically, culturally, socially, etc. Term limits on the presidency happen in the majority of countries around the world and of that majority, a majority have the limits on their presidency set at two terms. Exceptions are monarchies (hereditary succession), the Philippines and South Korea (among one or two others) whose presidents could only serve for one six-year and one five-year term respectively, and while a few countries have their two terms last for four, six and seven years each, the huge majority chose five years to be the standard for each of their two terms. So, for the PPP to attempt to offer Jagdeo up for the presidency of this republic for a third term would be just as insulting as when the party forced Janet down

the political throats of the Guyanese People. That raises many questions, such as who advises this political party or does the party listen to advice other than Jagdeo’s? Has he commandeered the leadership of the PPP without resistance? Has he placed members of the PPP under duress, considering that he was president twice already and was privy to any and all information? Are all the members of the PPP oblivious to their dilemma with him hanging around? Can any other member of that party say anything that makes commonsense to Guyana without offending Jagdeo? These are all serious questions that the People’s Progressive Party must address sometime soon. And even if the constitutional question hasn’t been settled as yet, it would serve as a timely (and valid) reminder to those who advocate to extend the presidential term limit beyond two, that all Guyanese remain proud and active participants in the Digital/Information Age. Thomas John

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in articles in this newspaper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policies and views of the management of the New York Edition of the Guyana Chronicle. The success of this system, then, assumed that the op- PPP has done, is nothing short of partisan political propaposition would present the president with a list of persons ganda which should be called out for what it is. acceptable to both sides. In that regard, it was assumed Others have pointed to the President’s departure from that, at the least, the list would be bereft of persons who the norm and the negative perception that such a move are openly aligned with any of the political parties. From feeds. That is indeed a much more plausible argument that all indications, the lists presented to the presidents during is worth debating as we move forward. That the President the PPP’s tenure in office, met this minimum standard— has made a political gamble by erring on the side of a strict they chose their preferred person without much fuss or interpretation of the constitution is beyond doubt. The any controversy. political correctness of that position is also open to debate One curious observation during that time was that the and scrutiny by our opinion-shapers and commentators. Indian Guyanese-based PPP always chose an Indian-GuyThe opposition for its part has vowed to take the matanese candidate. That, as others have observed, is not a fact ter all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to be ignored. It indicated two things. First, that ethnicity and to engage in non-cooperation with the government. was an important factor as far as the PPP was concerned. Engaging the court on the matter is part of the democratic Second, that the opposition lists allowed the PPP the scope process that should be honoured and respected and we to make such a choice. We make this observation to make do so. But the threat of non-cooperation does not get the the point that the PPP, perhaps unintentionally, was adding same support. a new element to the Carter formula. It should be noted that ever since this government came Fast forward to the present. Upon Steve Surujbally’s to power, the PPP has withheld its cooperation. So, this resignation, it was now the PPP’s turn to present a list to new policy is really a continuation of an already entrenched the President. Opposition Leader Jagdeo presented three approach. As we have previously opined in these pages, lists, all of which contained the names of persons who were such an approach is, in the final analysis, counterproduceither known to be supporters of the PPP or to be hostile tive to the national interest—a position that we reiterate. to the government. This is where we think the process In the last analysis, the president’s action must be broke down—the inability of the PPP to honour the basic evaluated within the context of its constitutionality and its requirement of presenting lists devoid of persons who were in threat to the stability the democratic foundations of our The views and opinions expressed articles in ofthis newspaper are not known to be politically aligned. political process. We are satisfied that on both counts the There of is the view that the president’s unilateral president is on the right side. But that does not blind us to those the authors and do not apnecessarily reflect the policies and pointment flies in the face of the constitution and violates the fears expressed by important sections of our society, our democratic ethos. management We obviously differ withof thatthe view. New some ofYork which are grounded inof ourthe lived history. views of the Edition Guyana Our reading of the constitution is that the President has that It is a concern that should not be ignored. Hence, it right—a reading that is supported by the recent ruling of would be in the interest of the President and his governChronicle. the learned chief justice. To argue to the contrary, as the ment to do all they can to calm those fears.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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CARICOM: The Joke Of Democracy

he English-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is a small group of islands, an archipelago, dotting the blue Caribbean Sea. Fought over by greedy, rapacious European powers, these idyllic islands changed hands over centuries of greatpower rivalries as part of European imperial expansionism. However, after the end of World War II, holding on to these colonies became economically untenable and so England divested herself of these liabilities, granting them independence. But these former colonies and their nascent political leaders were not prepared for independence on the managerial, organizational and philosophical levels and so readily adopted ALL of the former colonial’s master’s systems of governance and jurisprudence. As it relates to these systems of ties clearly cannot and do not repregovernance CARICOM nations put sent the interests of the people. As a in place various hybrid versions of matter of fact the very way that the British parliamentary democracy and system is set up is a clear negation of ratified constitutions so poorly writ- democracy. ten and constructed that even today they reflect the shortsightedness and complete lack of input by the former governed in the process. These constitutions ape and mirror, sometimes word-for-word, British common law, cultural attitudes and electoral principles. To this day, some Caribbean nation’s still convene their parliaments with Black legislators in comFor instance, the voters of ical 18th century white wigs and long CARICOM nations got to the polls black robes, referring to judges as every five years to elect a new gov“Mi Lud.” ernment. They cast their votes for And in the first decade of the candidates that they had no say in se21st century, as it did in the 20th cen- lecting and asked to agree to manitury, the Westminster system of gov- festos that they neither crafted nor ernment has not worked for CARICOM despite the loud, vainglorious pronunciations and statements about the vibrancy of “regional Caribbean democracy ” by the region’s political class. First off is the fact that the very system is what still spawns Caribbean tribal politics that allow a tiny political class and their supporters to control all power in the region. The twoparty political system of government leaves no room for an inclusive body politic and creates unnecessary divisions in these weak social populations where class lines are oftentimes blurred.

Political parties and their leadership are driven by the local social/political elite strata comprised of lawyers, doctors, teachers and other professionals. Educated in the same colonial metropolis their worldview of politics does not always compute with the very real needs of the local population. These bourgeois right-wing political par-

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had an input in. They are told during the campaign that “these are the people that will represent you” and form a government that will seek their interests. That’s the political spin. And it’s patiently false. Here’s how the system works. First, voters go to the polls to elect their chosen political party. The parties contesting the elections need just 50% + 1 to win. For example, say the total voting populace is 100 people then the first party “past the pole” wins – it needs only 51 votes to win. What this means is that 49 people have been disenfranchised despite the winning party’s loud claims of “wanting to represent

everybody.” Next, the winning party selects and appoints its leadership. And this is where the Peter Principle plays out – people are promoted to their level of incompetence. Again, a simple ex-

ample. Say there’s a popular former teacher who wins his or her seat. The expectation is that of a top ministerial position. So the ruling party makes that individual the Minister of Education. But being a successful teacher in the classroom is a very different thing from dealing with POLICIES and running a ministry with so many things that the new minister is clearly not prepared or experienced for. So this relationship works in a totally sporadic way based on the experience and expertise of the prevailing institutional memory – senior workers and career civil servants - in the ministry.

But here’s where things get really undemocratic and leads to incompetence and backwardness. Other party members and their families also want jobs and to be rewarded for their work and support. (see page 20)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL MARKETPLACE STILL ON FOR SAN JUAN CHTA voices confidence in Puerto Rico readiness by January and urges industry support MIAMI (October 21, 2017) - Puerto Rico will host the Caribbean's largest tourism marketing event in San Juan from January 30 to February 1, 2018, as officials work rapidly to prepare hotels and meeting facilities impacted by the recent hurricanes. "In rolling out a reenergized Caribbean Travel Marketplace, we look forward to showing the world how the courage, determination and hard work of the Puerto Rican people and tourism industry has prevailed in view of the challenges they are currently facing," said Frank Comito, Director General and CEO of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA). Comito said the Puerto Rican people's resilience in rebuilding communities and getting their tourism and hospitality sector up and running is inspiring. "It is important for the entire Caribbean region, our industry's travel partners and those who book travel to the Caribbean to show their support. Already, most of the region's tourism industry is open for business and we anticipate by the end of the year most of the hotels in Puerto Rico will be welcoming guests, as will a growing number of hotels from the other impacted destinations," he noted. Marketplace is produced by CHTA in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Convention Center District Authority, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, and the Puerto Rico Hotel and Tourism Association.

CHTA President Karolin Troubetzkoy said Caribbean hoteliers, destination representatives and industry stakeholders who rely on doing business with the region will have a unique opportunity to learn about the region's diverse offerings, new products, improvements and upgrades, and niche market opportunities. "Marketplace also connects people, renewing business relationships and establishing new contacts," she said. Troubetzkoy also commended the people of Puerto Rico and other affected destinations. "Faced with so much adversity, our people have exhibited tenacity, bravery and dedication in helping their brothers and sisters rebuild their lives while committing to welcoming visitors back to their shores," she commented. Omar Marrero, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Convention Center District Authority, thanked CHTA and the wider Caribbean for showing solidarity with the Territory during this challenging period, declaring, "¡Nosotros estaremos listos! (We will be ready!) We look forward to welcoming our Caribbean family and our national and international partners to our island - come and do business, that's the best way to help us rebound in the new year." Marrero is also the Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority and the Puerto Rico Public-Private Partnerships Authority. The Puerto Rico Convention Center

(continued on page 9)

Caribbean Travel Marketplace will be held in San Juan from January 30 to February 1, 2018.

MINERVA TRAVEL CLIA/IATA OSSN/SATH APTA/PATA TPOC/IGLTA M/W/DBE CERTIFIED

ELAINE HENRY, CTA, MCC Travel Consultant 1053 E 40th Street Tel: 718-377-2071 Brooklyn, NY 11210 Fax: 718-377-1291 email: minitravel@hotmail.com www.minervatravel.net

WHERE COURTESY AND PROFESSIONALISM MEET

To Advertise in this new and exciting paper The New York Edition of the GUYANA CHRONICLE — Guyana’s National Newspaper call: 917-379-6590

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

In the Mail

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A WARNING TO ALL VOTERS

Dear Voters, On Tuesday November 7, Election Day, voters will see on the back of the ballot, Proposition 1 – Constitutional Convention followed by a question similar to this: “Shall there be a convention to revise the Constitution and amend the same?” A Constitutional Convention is really not nnecessary and appears to be more like ‘a wolf in sheep’s clothing’. There is a great deal to lose and voters are urged to vote “NO” on this Proposition. If a majority votes “NO” there will be no Constitutional Convention. The New York State Constitution provides that every 20 years “the people decide if a Constitutional Convention should be held to consider amendments to the State Constitution”. If the majority of voters vote “Yes” then all aspects of the state’s constitution would be open for amendments and after that voters may have no input in the process until the amendments appear on the ballot a few years from now. The Constitutional Convention Proposition was previously rejected by voters in 1977 and again in 1997 and it should be rejected again on November 7, 2017. In a New York Daily News article of February 6, 2017 titled “Cuomo expresses reservations about state constitutional convention”, the Governor expressed concern about the process when he said “[Y]ou have to find a way where the delegates do no wind up being the same legislators you are trying to change the rules on. I have not heard a plan that does that.” and “The theory of the constitutional convention

is just good people come in and they’re the delegates. The way it will work is you’ll probably elect assemblymen and senators as delegates. And the unions will probably fund the campaigns. And you may make the situation worse not better.” The public should be aware that unions are vehemently opposed to a constitutional convention because of the harm it can bring to workers and their families in New York State. The last time there was a constitutional convention was 1967 (a Special Convention) and it was considered a waste of time and resources, since it produced no significant changes to the Constitution. A “yes” vote starts the process where each Senate District would elect Delegates in November 2018. The Convention will convene in April 2019 and propose amendments to be on the ballot. Voters will ratify or reject the amendments at the November 2019 elections. If the amendments are ratified changes to the constitution go into effect on January 1, 2020. Delegates would set their own rules, hire their own staff, and get paid at about $80,000 each. It will cost tens of millions of dollars of tax payers’ money. According to the Board of Elections, “The delegates will have the power to appoint the officers, employees, and assistants that they deem necessary and to fix the compensation of those officers, employees, and assistants. The delegates also will have the power to provide for the expenses of the Convention, including the printing of its documents, journal, and proceedings. The delegates will determine the rules of their pro-

ceedings, choose their officers, and be the judge of the election, returns, and qualifications of their members.” Funding would not be an issue. Why should the people of New York State vote “NO”? They are now living in desperate times and there is too much at stake for ordinary working people and their families: – safety and health protections, State Budget oversight transparency, workmen’s compensation, public education funding, environmental protection, contractual rights and wages, pensions and benefits, state obligations to retirees, Civil Rights and Social Welfare, the right to collectively bargain. In short, everything that is protected by the State’s Constitution right now, would be open to be tampered with if Proposition 1 passes and there is a Constitutional Convention. According to Ballotpedia, Carl Heastie the State Assembly Speaker is against a Constitutional Convention. “We are going to need you to remind people that dangerous things can happen. There are some very wealthy people who want to pen up the constitution and really undo some of the protections of labor.” Ballotpedia also ran a quote from Steve Ammerman spokesperson for the New York Farm Bureau (Albany Times Union 09/02/2017) who expressed the view that “convention delegates who are unfamiliar with agriculture and rural life would make lasting decisions that would negatively affect farmers.” Both Governor Cuomo (who supports the Constitutional Convention) and Speaker Heastie (who op-

poses it) have voiced valid concerns about the process. In 1967 (the special Convention) every single politician in Albany who ran for a convention delegate seat won a seat, and every single convention leader was a sitting legislator. Voters should remember that not so long ago several Albany politicians were hauled before the courts and some even served time in prison. Voters should also know that spending tens of millions of dollars would amount to a waste of precious hard earned tax dollars as happened in 1967, because any state law can be changed by the State Legislature through the normal constitutional amendment process. It does not require a change in the State’s Constitution. So, on Tuesday November 7, voters throughout New York State should flock to the polls and after voting on the front of the ballot, turn it over and vote “NO” on Proposition 1. If they do not vote, they lose their right to speak. Respectfully yours, Chaitram Aklu.

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL MARKETPLACE STILL ON FOR SAN JUAN

will see a dynamic array of meetings between hotel and destination representives, online travel agents, tour operators and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) planners with a busy program of thousands of pre-scheduled appointments. Marketplace 2018 will also see a wider range of suppliers eager to promote their new contributions to this fast growing sector. "In addition to the traditional partners and Marketplace participants, we want to stimulate and maintain these fresh connections to ensure current and future suppliers can remain abreast of the expanding needs of tourism at the region's largest and longest running marketing

(from page 8)

event. Our team at CHTA is constantly adjusting to a changing and competitive travel environment, so we can exceed delegates' expectations," Troubetzkoy said. In 2017, Caribbean Travel Marketplace, hosted by The Bahamas, attracted 114 buyer companies from 20 countries. More than 1,100 delegates from 31 countries participated in more than 10,000 prescheduled appointments. The event opens on the evening of Tuesday, January 30, preceded by educational sessions earlier in the day. For more information, visit www.chtamarketplace.com or call +1 305 443-3040. Details about registration can be found at www.chtamarketplace.com/registrationfees. Caribbean Travel Marketplace, pro-

duced by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Convention Center District Authority, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, and the Puerto Rico Hotel and Tourism Association, is hosted by Interval International, JetBlue Vacations, and Mastercard. Platinum Sponsors include ADARA, AMResorts, Cable & Wireless, CaribbeanWE, Figment Design, Marketplace Excellence, OBMI, STR, TravelClick and Travelzoo. Lexicon Travel Technologies, Meredith Corporation, and The New York Times have joined the event as gold sponsors. About the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is the Caribbean's

leading association representing tourism interests for national hotel and tourism associations. For more than 50 years, CHTA has been the backbone of the Caribbean hospitality industry. Working together with 1,000 hotel and allied members and 32 National Hotel Associations, CHTA is shaping the Caribbean's future and helping members to grow their businesses. Whether navigating new worlds like social media, sustainability, legislative issues, emerging technologies, data and intelligence or looking for avenues and ideas to better market and manage businesses, CHTA is helping members on matters that matter most. For further information, visit www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

TIME FOR CHANGE NOW "There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens." — Ecclesiastes 3:1

W

hen a baby is born on planet Earth, any mentally stable parent would wish their child to develop to the fullest and, through procreation, expand the human race. The parent would be mindful of the need to preserve the ecological environment on which human beings are dependent for survival, so that on maturity their offspring could engage in some form of economic activity. This would allow them to convert their free, God-given 24 hours per day into disposable income which would collectively, over all human beings, result in the sustainability of mankind. This concept is referred to as the triple bottom line, the 3Ps (People, Planet and Profit). If people, for whatever reason, create social unrest; if our ecological space is subjected to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide which induce climate change; if the enabling business environment does not induce prosperity; then mankind, as we know it, is at risk. Well, we are now at the stage in the Caribbean where mankind is threatened and we must act NOW and hope that it is not already too late. Our leaders, in the form of a public private partnership, must paint a Vision for the future and mobilze all people to implement an Action plan. Many of us are familiar with the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) and their impact on consumption of new materials, energy saving and preservation of the environment. How about a similar thought as to how we should preserve our governance environment in each of our countries. In this case, the 3Rs would be: Restructure Debt, Reduce the Size of The endemic problem is debt. It is the Civil Service and Re-engineer our Growth Sectors. Simple but not easy, a fait accompli, an irreversible process and the only sensible solution is to Rebut we better start NOW!

structure the Debt over a long period of time so that it can be repaid through surpluses from a successful innovative diversification thrust. When one is seeking a partner in the restructuring process there are only two real options. Go the International Monetary Fund and or to a rich country (relative to the small economies of the

Caribbean) and negotiate the necessary fix. Do not look for patchwork solutions and hope for the best.

Dr. Basil Springer’s Column

By the way, the innovative diversification thrust comes with a capital investment cost some of which might be bundled into the long term loan and some sourced through Foreign Direct Investment. This is not a government initiative, this is a country initiative. If the people do not buy into it upfront then the country is dead in the water. In Barbados, we have allowed our governance systems to languish e.g. a public accounts committee that does not meet; an auditor general's report that is ignored; no encouragement of a dynamic well funded consumer protection agency. All these, properly functioning, look after the people's interest. The Civil Service is the biggest employer in a country. It is inefficient and we need to Reduce the Size of the Civil Service. In parallel, an enterprise development thrust, with a supportive enabling environment, must be sold to displaced employees as an alternative way of earning disposable income. Systems for this enterprise development thrust are already available for implementation but the enabling environment still has a few outstanding weaknesses which need to be strengthened. Each country has land, marine resources, people and an environment. We must Re-engineer our Growth Sectors around these assets. The sky is the limit, but the vision is the limiting factor. Growth sectors must be induced by global market pull not only by selling tourism to the eastern seaboard of North America, ad nauseam, for nearly 60 years. Successful yes, but not nearly enough to generate the economic growth rates needed for sustainability. More Vision and Action need to take place in tourism, tourism linkages, creative industries, sport, innovative financial services, renewable energy, converting the 30+ percent of our land area asset, lying in fallow, into agricultural products for exports and import substitution. Our energies which are dissipated in social unrest must be converted into productive power. It is said that we know what to do to correct this but we do not have the political "guts" to do it. Let us recognize that “there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens" and that the time for us to grapple our countries by the collar and lead them along a sustainable path is NOW! (Dr. Basil Springer GCM is a Change-Engine Consultant. His email address is basilgf57@gmail. com. His columns may be found at www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com and on www.facebook.com/basilgf)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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Ease The Tension — Enjoy A Laugh

A father was watching his young 12year-old daughter playing in the garden. He smiled as he reflected on how sweet and pure his little girl was. Tears formed in his eyes as he thought about her seeing the wonders of nature through such innocent eyes. Suddenly she just stopped and stared at the ground. He went over to see what work of God had captured her attention. He noticed she was watching two spiders mating. “Daddy, what are those two spiders doing?” she asked. “They’re mating,” her father replied. “What do you call the spider on top?” she asked. “That’s a Daddy Longlegs,” her father answered. “So, the other one is a Mommy Longlegs?” the little girl asked. As his heart soared with the joy of such a cute and innocent question he replied, “No dear. Both of them! are Daddy Longlegs.” The little girl, looking a little puzzled, thought for a moment, then stomped them flat and said, “Well, we’re not having any of that gay business in our garden.”

GAY SPIDERS

Ingredients: 4 ozs. grated coconut 5 ozs. margarine 8 ozs, sugar 2 eggs well beaten 8 ozs. flour 1 tsp. vanilla essence 1 tbsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 pint coconut milk

mixture alternately with the coconut milk.

COCONUT CAKE

4. Add the grated coconut and turn into an 8-inch square pan lined with greased paper

5. Bake for about 15 minuteis in a moderately hot oven.

1. Cream margarine and sugar Method:

2. Add the well-beaten egg andvanilla essence.

3. Sift flour, baking powder andsalt and add to the creamed

A woman called a local hospital:

The Patient in Room 302

IT’S A FACT by JAMES SYDNEY

COLONEL CHARLES YOUNG DISTINGUISHED BLACK SOLDIER AND GENTLEMAN

C

harles Young made an early acquaintance with the military. His father, a former slave, served as a private in the Fifth Regiment of the Colored Artillery (Heavy) Volunteers.

Born March 12, 1864, in Mayslick, Kentucky, Charles was determined to become a good soldier. He attended a white high school in Ripley, Ohio and at age 16, was the first Black to graduate with honors from the school, after which he became a teacher in the Black high school of Ripley. While engaged in teaching, he wrote and passed a competitive examination for appointment as a cadet at West Point. In 1883 he reported to the military academy and in 1889 graduated with his commission, the third Black man in all America to graduate from West Point at that time. Charles then began a career of active service that was to take him to the rank of Colonel and to the countries of Mexico, Haiti, Liberia, and Cuba. In Cuba, during the Spanish-American War, Young commanded the 9th Ohio Battalion of the National Guard. Colonel Young was not only a good

soldier but also a gentleman and a scholar. He was proficient in Latin, Greek, German, French, Spanish and Italian. His impressive personal library contained many volumes in these languages. While he was yet a Lieutenant, Young was appointed Professor of Military Sci-

ence and Tactics at Wilberforce University, an African American college in Ohio. Samuel T. Mitchell, the President of Wilberforce described Young as “eminently qualified for the position he occupies, teaching not only Military Science courses, but also French and mathematics.”

He brought not only talent, but energy and enthusiasm to many contributions he made there. He played and composed music for piano, violin and guitar; and he directed the college band. While teaching military science and tactics at Wilberforce University in Ohio, his home was a gathering place for such men as Paul Lawrence Dunbar and W.E.B. DuBois. The eminent DuBois, who was also on the faculty, became a lifelong friend.

COLONEL CHARLES YOUNG

However Young’s career was that of a military man. He was one of a very small number of Black military officers at a time when racism and discrimination were often quite open. Many White soldiers resisted taking orders from African American officers or non-commissioned officers. Naturally, the prevailing attitudes presented Young with many challenges as he was

“Hello. Could you connect me to the person who gives information about patients. I’d like to find out if a patient is getting better, doing as expected, or getting worse.” The voice on the other end said, “What is the patient’s name and room number?” “Sarah Finkel, room 302,” the called answered. “O.K., I’ll connect you with the nursing station.” “3-A Nursing Station. How can I help you?” “I’d like to know the condition of Sarah Finkel in room 302.” “Just a moment. Let me look at her records. Mrs. Finkel is doing very well. In fact, she’s had two full meals, her blood pressure is fine. She is to be taken off the heart monitor in a couple of hours and, if she continues this improvement, Dr. Cohen is going to send her home Tuesday at noon.” the nurse said. “What a relief! Oh, that’s fantastic . . . that’s wonderful news!” the caller exclaimed. The nurse said, “From your enthusiasm, I take it you are a close family member or a very close friend!” “Neither! I’m Sarah Finkel in 302.” It’s the only way I can find out how I’m doing. In here nobody tells me squat.

often senior to subordinate White officers and troops. However, he performed his difficult duties with sensitivity. During his 37 years of military service, Young carried out a wide variety of assignments throughout the United States, The Philippines, Haiti, Liberia and Mexico. As a Troop (Company) Commander, Captain Young served at the Presidio of San Francisco in 1903. His duties that year included leading an escort of troops for the President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, and serving as Acting Superintendent of Sequoia National Park. It was the first time that Black troops provided an escort for the President of the United States. When World War I broke out, Colonel Young expected to be given an active assignment overseas. The Black press made it known that they wanted him to be given a command. However, doctors had diagnosed Lieutenant Colonel Young, as he was then, with high blood pressure and chronic kidney inflammation (Bright’s Disease), and he was medically retired. Young, wanting to be reinstated in order to lead his men in the war, mounted his favorite horse and rode five hundred miles to Washington D.C. to show that he was fit for service. He was not retired for “reasons of health” as he might have been, but was assigned to train Black troops at Fort Grant, Illinois. Later he was sent to Liberia as military attaché in Monrovia. Shortly after his arrival in Africa, the Colonel died in Lagos, Nigeria in 1922. He was returned to America and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. Colonel Charles Young was an outstanding soldier.

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Guyana Chronicle York Edition week ending October 2017 Guyana Chronicle NewNew York Edition Week-ending October 27, 27, 2017

Popular Guyanese Carlyle Callender passes away

A Celebration of Life Service was held on Friday, October 20 at Jeremiah C. Gaffney Funeral Home in Inwood, New York for popular Guyanese Carlyle Callender, who passed away on Thursday, October 12, after a long illness, Carlyle, who played both football and cricket in his native

Guyana at the club and school levels was well-known for his dedication and skill in both these sports. He migrated to the United States in the ‘70s and continued his association with sports, only this time at the indoor level, playing dominoes and cards at the many Guyanese clubs in the New York

area.

In New York Carlyle worked at CitiBank, was a well-respected employee and established many relationships, which was evident by the many CitiBank employees who were at his service. Carlyle, who was born in the village of Kitty in Guyana, was a

Friends of Carlyle Callender predominantly from the village of Kitty in Guyana came out to celebrate the life of their fallen friend at his ‘Going Home Service’ at Gaffrey Funeral Home in Inwood, New York last Friday (October 20). (picture by Dennis Nelson)

THE LATE CARLYLE CALLENDER regular attendee at the annual “Kitty” Labor Day party and took an active part in its organization. He will be greatly missed by his familmany many relatives and friends. Calyle leaves to cherish his wonderful memories and loving spirit, his companion of many years Sylvie; son Calvin; brothers: Winston and Byron; cousins: the Halls, Lees, Henrys, Blanchards, Robinsonsk Callenders, Bovells, Herons and many other relatives and friends,

Canadian businessman granted bail - for allegedly trying to fleece local miner of raw gold

A 54-year-old Canadian businessman accused of stealing $1.3M worth of raw gold from a mining company was on Wednesday charged and released on $100,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and ordered lodge his passport at the court. It is alleged that Elson Bettencourt on October 13 at Mousie Back-

dam, Potaro River, demanded from Royston Gilbert five ounces and 15 pennyweights of raw gold valued at $1.3M with intent to steal the items from Steven Chung. He denied that charge. According to police prosecutor Arvin Moore, Gilbert is the owner of a gold-mining operation, and Chung is employed as his general manager.

On the day in question, Bettencourt appeared at the mining camp and demanded that Chung hand over six ounces of gold. Moore pointed out that when Chung refused, the defendant pulled out a rope and threatened to tie him to his car and drag him through the camp trail. As a result, Chung became afraid and handed him all the takings

Elson Bettencourt

for that day. Attorney Ronald Burch-Smith told the court that Bettencourt had an arrangement with Chung that he would lend him his excavator in return for half of the gold profit, a deal that the latter failed to honour. With no objection being raised by the prosecution for the granting of bail, Bettencourt was released on $100,000 bail and had his matter adjourned until November 8.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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Eddy Grant goes home to Guyana with new album “Plaisance” named for his hometown village

G

uyana-born singer/musician/songwriter/producer Eddy Grant had not released an album in 11 years, but his latest work “Plaisance,” is right on time and very special to the longtime music star. He’s been around the world performing “Electric Avenue,” “Romancing the Stone,” “Living on the Front Line” and other hits songs over the years, but the Plaisance album is homecoming — it’s named for Grant’s Guyana village, which is a truly exceptional place.

Eddy Grant’s 50-year music career — which has literally taken him around the world many times — brings him back to his Guyana with “Plaisance” – the name of his latest album and the name of the village where he was born. (ICE RECORDS/WWW.EDDYGRANT.COM) “It’s extremely special. We were

the second village in the country when the slaves purchased their villages” from slave masters, Grant said recently from Guyana, adding that plantation owners attempted to undermine the new settlement of free Blacks. “But Plaisance is a surviving place. Its people are well known for their fortitude.” “During slavery, it is well known within our history, that one of the enslaved Africans (from Plaisance) actually took the Governor to court and won. And so we’re well-known for being aggressive and game-changers,” said Grant noting cricket great Rex Collymore and painter/sculptor Dudley Charles are among the greats from Plaisance. Symbolic of their upbringing in Guyana, Charles’ The Old House from Plaisance painting graces the back cover of Grant’s album. Grant’s distinctive voice and his special brand of music and songwriting flow freely from the 14-track new album, which ranges from powerfully upbeat to pleasurably smooth on featuring thought-provoking tunes, such as “Mind the Gap” and “Now, We’re All Together,” and the sturdy up-tempo

songs “True to You” and “I’m The One.” Grant has been constant on the music scene for more than 50 years — a solo act since late 1970s and a pioneering performer before that. He was a cofounder of The Equals, one of the U.K.’s first racially-integrated pop bands in the 1960s, owner of the first Black-owned recording studio, record pressing plant and record manufacturing plant in Europe. And he’s also the proud founder of the longtime Ice Records label, home to host of Caribbean performers, such as Mighty Sparrow, Calypso Rose, Superblue, Lord Kitchener and Mighty Gabby. And he owns the Blue Wave Studios recording studio in Barbados. Although he made musical history in England, he initially went there to attend medical school and become a doctor. “I started very, very young getting interested in music. First of all, I heard the music of the Caribbean, which is calypso”, he said, mentioning the Mighty Sparrow, who of all the calypsonians, probably had the greatest impact socially in the region. Grant had aspirations of becoming a medical doctor, but music got in the way, he recalls. Back in Plaisance, young Dudley Charles was “painting and drawing furiously, every day, every minute” and was set firmly on his career path, but Grant wasn’t sure yet about his own future.” “I was really interested in becoming a doctor,” he said noting that his father was “a fantastic trumpet player” who taught him the instrument and whet his musical appetite. “And so, through hearing my dad play, going to their practice rehearsals

Eddy Grant’s new “Plaisance” album can be purchased from his website. (ICE RECORDS/WWW.EDDYGRANT.COM) and so on, I became imbued with the fire play today? Whatever he wants! that catches young people when music “I do play cross genres. I play is around. By the time I’d gotten to Eng- whatever it is that I feel — from the land, I was very seriously into wanting West Indies to Africa and I play everyto play — not necessarily to play profes- thing in between,” he said, touting his sionally, but to play.” independent Ice Records label and the After being mesmerized by a phe- invaluable business lessons he’s learned nomenal Chuck Berry performance in because of his independent status. England, Grant said he was through with “In being independent, I became the trumpet and embraced the guitar. absolutely aware of what was going on “We couldn’t believe the sound this and what I needed to do to stay in the guy as putting down,” said Grant who business. dropped the trumpet and had “to be like Plaisance and other Eddy Grant alChuck Berry!” The Chuck Berry expe- bums can be purchased at www.eddyrience also lead Grant on a personal ven- grant.com. ture learning American blues tunes of Reproduced from New York Daily Big Bill Broonzy, Lonesome Sundown, Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson, News Written by Jared Mc Allister, SunHowlin’ Wolf and other musicians. day October 22, 2017 So, what style of music does Grant

Eddy Grant mixes and mingles with Guyanese women in his hometown of Plaisance, which his latest album is named for. (WWW.EDDYGRANT.COM)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

Two years on...

NY City sends its love, finest - to join family in memorial service for fallen Guyana-born NYPD Detective

NYPD officers during their march past at Le Repentir Cemetery

AIM! FIRE! Ranks of the GPF pay tribute to Randolph Holder in their own way

By Navendra Seoraj TWO years after he was laid to rest, the family and colleagues of Guyana-born New York Police Department (NYPD) Detective, Randolph Holder, aka Randy, still feel the pain they felt on the day he was buried. “It is still very sad, but we will be going forward,” said the hero’s father, Randolph Holder (Snr) during an interview with members of the media at Le Repentir Cemetery where he was buried, and where a memorial service was held on Saturday in remembrance of him. Holder said that although the family is coping well, with the support of the NYPD and other friends, Randy’s presence is still very much missed in their home. Other relatives expressed their grief in different ways. One of Randy’s relatives said she could remember when he would occasionally travel to Guyana and change the atmosphere of their home with his presence. Holder was killed on October 20, 2015, after being shot in the head in East Harlem, New York. He and his partner had been chasing a man after responding to a call saying that shots were being fired, and that a bicycle was stolen at gunpoint. Authorities alleged that the suspect hopped off the stolen bicycle

Members of the NYPD and Randolph Holder’s family pay their respects at the graveside of the fallen hero (Photos by Adrian Narine)

and shot Holder in the head. The fallen policeman was born in Guyana but migrated to the USA at a very tender age, and later enlisted in the NYPD, where he served for five years prior to his demise. His parents served as police officers here in Guyana prior to migrating. Described as their hero, family members said Holder always wanted to be a policeman, following in the footsteps of his father

and grandfather, who served as officers in Guyana. Holder joined the NYPD in 2010 and was assigned to a unit that patrolled the city’s public housing complexes. He leaves behind his fiancée, Maryiane Muhammad, father and stepmother, two brothers, a sister and many extended family members. Holder sought to be a role model to his

own family, and embraced the opportunity to be a leader for the city’s youth. He wanted to take on that responsibility. NYPD Inspector, Clint McPherson said Randy was an asset to the Force and his loss was a tremendous blow to them. It, however, brought a few Guyana-born officers and those with Guyanese roots together to form an organisation. The organisation has been doing a lot of charitable work to assist Guyanese, and to work closely with Randy’s family to support local clinics and orphanages. They recently donated 100 bulletproof vests to the Guyana Police Force (GPF). McPherson said the Force and the organisation would continue to donate as long as they were able. Commissioner of Police (Ag.), David Ramnarine met with members of the Ex-Police Associations of Guyana and the NYPD, led by Captain Kevin L. Taylor and Inspector Mc Pherson, along with a team during a courtesy call on Friday. According to a press statement from the GPF, the visit was part of a continuing engagement with the GPF, which began some two years ago, and that since then, several officers, including Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud, had been warmly received while in the USA.

US-based ex-policemen chip in - help keep president’s ‘5 Bs’ project going THE Guyana Ex-Police Association of America has donated US$2,100 and G$15,000 to Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, as part of their contribution to the government’s ‘5 Bs’ project. Minister Ally received the donations from members of the association in her office at Lamaha and East Streets. According to Ally, the donation will go a far way in helping to add to the existing set of buses, boats and bicycles. “We are happy that you have recognised the impor-

tance of this project, and will play a part in helping us keep it alive. Thank you,” said the Minister. President of the Association, Leroy Charles said because they were coming to Guyana to pay tribute to the deceased Guyana-born New York Police Department (NYPD) Detective, Randolph Holder, they found it prudent to make another contribution. In echoing the sentiments of the minister, Charles said he is sure that the contribution will go a far way in making a difference for Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally receives the donation from the children who benefit from the Five B’s President of the Guyana Ex Police Association of America, Leroy project. Charles, in the presence of other members of the Association.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

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Over $3M up for grabs SHELL (SOL) Guyana Inc. on Wednesday launched its annual Christmas promotion, offering customers a chance to win more than $3M in cash and prizes after gassing up with the purchase of $3000 at its 10 service stations countrywide. According to Sales Executive, Renee Armstrong-Joseph, Christmas has always been an ideal time for the company to give back, and a grand prize of $200,000 will certainly go a long way in ensuring that a deserving customer enjoys a very Merry Christmas. There will also be weekly prizes totaling $150,000 in cash, in addition to prizes of Shell FuelSave and LPG. “Our Shell stations welcome all drivers this season, and we look forward to rewarding our customers with generous cash prizes that really put big smiles on their faces,” Armstrong-Joseph said. The promotion will run for eight weeks, with the last drawing being at the height of the season on December 20. Customers spending $3000 on any Shell fuel, whether FuelSave, V-Power or diesel, will be eligible for the big grand prize or for any of the weekly prizes. Additionally, customers who purchase $5000 worth of Shell fuel will have a chance to win up to $100,000 from the cash machine during the happy-hour period. The promotion was launched at the Shell Bel Air Park service station on Vlissengen Road just next door to the Guyana Chronicle, and saw trivia winners from the Sol Guyana Inc. Facebook page being rewarded prizes and three media operatives winning cash from the Cash Machine.

- as Shell Guyana ‘gives back’ for Christmas

Sol Guyana Inc. models with senior staffers and Board members on Wednesday following the Christmas Promotion launch at the Shell Bel Air Park service station on Vlissengen Road (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

EIC accepts Guyana as fit and proper -to manage its extractive resources

GUYANA’S application to become a candidate country of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) has been accepted, a statement from the Ministry of Natural Resources said Wednesday. Guyana became the 53rd candidate country following deliberations at the 38th Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Board meeting which is being held in Manila, Philippines from October 25 to 26, 2017. “This is a signal achievement for all Guyana as it strengthens the good governance framework that the APNU+AFC coalition government has committed to establishing for the extractive industries sector and beyond,” the ministry stated. The EITI is a global standard for the good governance of oil, gas and mineral resources. Guyana through subject Minister Raphael Trotman and National Coordinator of the Guyana EITI Secretariat, Dr Rudy Jadoopat, were invited to the meeting as observers. However, Minister Trotman chose to have a representative from civil society attend in his place. ACCOMPANIED In that regard, Co-Chair of the Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) representing civil society, Curtis Bernard, accompanied Dr Jadoopat to the meeting. “I am elated that Guyana’s candidature application has been accepted. I see this as the fruit of an inclusive and committed process of shared governance… a process in which government, industry and civil society have worked together to deliver a nationally beneficial result. I congratulate all stakeholders who worked assiduously to

ensure a timely submission of the application that met the EITI Secretariat's standards and expectations," said the Minister of Natural Resources. Now that Guyana’s application has been accepted, the country has 18 months from the date of candidature to publish its first EITI report with information relevant to the extractive sector. That report will be prepared by an independent administrator. VALIDATION “Once a country becomes a member of EITI, it must be assessed against the EITI Standard in a process called validation, which reviews the country’s progress against the EITI requirements, evaluates the impact, and makes recommendations for strengthening the process and improving the governance of the natural resources sector. The country is re-assessed anywhere between three months and three years, depending on the outcome of its validation. This encourages continuous improvement and safeguards the integrity of the EITI,” the statement said. Through the EITI Secretariat, the EITI board oversees the validation process and if warranted, ascribes the country as having made satisfactory progress, meaningful progress, inadequate progress or no progress. An implementing country’s first EITI Report must be published within 18 months from the date that the country was accepted as an EITI candidate country and validation is required to commence within two and a half years of becoming an EITI candidate country. The secretariat is imploring all citizens, government officials and companies to visit the Guyana EITI website at gyeiti.org, where

EITI International Board Chairman Fredrik Reinfeldt (right), congratulating Dr Rudy Jadoopat (left) and welcoming Guyana into the EITI family Wednesday October 25, 2017. Curtis Bernard is behind Reinfeldt

they will find Guyana’s work plan, Guyana’s candidature application and a list of members of Guyana’s Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG), among other details. They can also visit the international EITI website at eiti.org. The Government of Guyana made a commitment towards EITI on May 4, 2010 and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EITI on May 15, 2012. In October 2015, a draft report of a scoping study was presented and in 2016, the government reiterated its commitment to EITI and an EITI Champion was appointed in the person of Minister Trotman. In December 2016, the Guyana EITI National Secretariat was established while in February 1, 2017, a national coordinator was appointed. On February 15, 2017, the

Multi-Stakeholder Group was officially launched with representatives from government, industry and civil society and on August 18, 2017, the government formally submitted its application to become a candidate country of the EITI following the completion of several sign-up steps, which include government announcing its unequivocal commitment to implement EITI, committing to work with and engage the private sector, to work with and engage civil society. The government also committed to establishing a Multi-Stakeholder Group in an open and transparent process in accordance with EITI requirements and with assistance from external consultants (World Bank, Carter Centre) and an EITI work plan was agreed to.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

President stands his ground

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

-Says not constitutionally required to give reason for rejecting GECOM nominees

By Svetlana Marshall

Leader, President Granger urged that the matter be analysed holistically. “Do not judge what occurred in the actual conclusion of the negotiations with the Leader of the Opposition as the totality.” He said. “This process started a year ago when the People’s Progressive Party started to hound Dr. Surujbally out of office. They protested, picketed, and they drove him out of office. “This process has been dragged on for an entire year, and the people of this country demand; the people of this country deserve; the people of this country need to have a functioning Elections Commission.” He reiterated that at all material times, he has acted within the Constitution.

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RESIDENT Granger is holding fast to his position, that constitutionally, he is not mandated to justify his decision to reject the Opposition Leader’s nominees for the Chairmanship of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Last Thursday, he appointed retired high court judge, Justice James Patterson Chairman of GECOM after informing Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo that his third list, like the first two, was unacceptable. The President’s decision has attracted much criticism, with the Guyana Bar Association calling for him to give reason for the rejection of the 18 names submitted to him by the Opposition Leader. But President Granger is maintaining that he is not constitutionally required to give reason. “I do not know that that requirement is enshrined in the Constitution,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the swearing-in of the eight members of the Local Government Commission at State House on Monday. “Guyana is a small country, and we have to be very careful about these judgments about persons’ character and their capabilities. I have to be advised,” he said. Acknowledging that the Chief Justice, Ms Roxanne George-Wiltshire has ruled on the matter, the President said he has no intention of acting in the contrary. “I know the Chief Justice has made certain statements, and I intend not to contradict the Chief Justice,” he said, “but I have not been advised that is a requirement which is enforceable. I don’t know if that is enforceable.” In the matter of Marcel Gaskin vs the Attorney General, the Chief Justice, in her ruling, has advised that there is no legal requirement for the President to state reasons for rejecting a list, though it is her belief that in the furtherance of democracy and good governance, he should, since Article 161 (2) speaks to the need for dialogue and compromise. The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is among organisations that have also expressed concern about what they deem the arbitrary selection of Justice Patterson. GHRA, in a statement on Saturday, went one step further in that they are questioning Justice Patterson’s suitability for the post. “He attracted public notice for his involvement in the politically controversial Maurice Bishop murder trial in Grenada, and his record of public service, senior management or promotion of democratic standards and practices is unknown,” the organisation said, adding: “This calls into question whether he is indeed a more

Retired Justice James Patterson receiving his instrument of appointment from President David Granger at his swearing-in as chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) at State House on Thursday night (Photo by Adrian Narine)

‘fit and proper person’ than many of those on the three lists submitted by the leader of the opposition.” Article 121 (2) of the Constitution states that, “Subject to the provisions of Paragraph 4, the Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds, or who has held, office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court, or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge, or any other fit and proper person, to be appointed by the President from a list of six persons, not unacceptable to the President, submitted by the Leader of the Opposition after meaningful consultation with the non-governmental political parties represented in the National Assembly.” In is defense, the President sought to remind his detractors that Justice Patterson was a High Court Judge. “He was a judge of the high court in Guyana,” he said, adding: “The information I have is that he was Chief Justice of Grenada. His curriculum vitae is not a secret; you can examine it for yourself. He was a judge in Guyana, that’s important. “I was asked by the Leader of the Opposition to suggest certain criteria which were not necessarily incorporated in the Constitution, and I proposed certain criteria.” While significant attention is being placed on the end result of the negotiation between he and the Opposition

President David Granger responding to reporters on issues relating to his appointment of Justice James Patterson as Chairman of GECOM (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

Lethem resident to be charged for soldier’s death A CENTRAL Lethem resident is expected to be charged today for the death of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Lance Corporal (L/cpl), Devon Fraser, who was struck down along the Lethem Public Road recently. The suspect, 39-yearold Elroy Pedro, who is due to appear in the Georgetown Magistrates Court will be represented by Attorney-at-law Jerome Khan. According to reports, at about 02:20 hrs on October 18, the deceased while in the company of another, was walking along the corner of the roadway in the vicinity of Camp Kanuku, (the GDF Base in Lethem), when a speeding CG motorcycle [number unknown] collided with him from behind. As a result of the impact, Fraser and the cyclist received injuries about their bodies. They were both taken to the Lethem Regional Hospital where Fraser was pronounced dead on arrival and the motor cyclist was admitted a patient.

The now dead GDF Lance Corporal, Devon Fraser

The motor cyclist was tested and found to be above the legal limit of alcohol. The now dead soldier was in Lethem as a member of the Military Band which provided musical accompaniment for the just-concluded activities, in observance of Lethem attaining township status.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

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PM says constitutional reform a must T

--regarding controversy over appointment of GECOM Chairman

HE United Nations(UN) and its sister organisations will be collaborating with the government of Guyana to aid in constitutional reform. This was announced by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who is currently performing the duties of the president, on Tuesday afternoon at an event held in commemoration of United Nations Day. In light of the recent controversy regarding the appointment of retired high court judge, Justice James Patterson as the new chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the prime minister explained that persons “should interrogate the prescriptions by which appointments such as these would take place and the prescription is laid in our constitution” to better understand the recommendations that determined the appointment. According to the Prime Minister, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have volunteered and pledged their support to facilitate an investigative team to determine the necessary steps to be taken and ways to fund the necessary requirements. This is vital, Prime Minister Nagamootoo outlined, since in the near future once the constitution is advanced, it will afford citizens “a comfort level that they can trust our laws and that our laws can be followed in a way that all will feel comfortable and secure.” He add-

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo addressing the gathering at the unveiling of the SDGs arch (Photo courtesy DPI)

ed, “There should be no insecurity -- whether political or ethnic -- in Guyana, because there is a deficiency in our supreme law in our constitution.” Guyana’s Constitution is an arrangement of fundamental principles that govern the state. Constitutional reform seeks to modify some fundamental structures of

these principles. The 1980 Constitution was reformed and the changes enshrined in the revised supreme law in 2001. The administration’s drive for constitutional reform began in June 2017, when Prime Minister Nagamootoo read the Constitutional Reform Consultative Commission Bill 2017 on July 27 for the first time in the National Assembly. The UN has been incrementally aiding Guyana with the constitutional reform process. In February of this year, a team of experts from the UN body visited Guyana to explore the need for constitutional reform. The group met and discussed with the prime minister, ministers and senior advisors, the Speaker of the National Assembly and MPs, the leader and senior members of the Opposition, Constitutional Rights Commission members, the GECOM Chairman, a broad spectrum of leaders and activists of various civil society Organisations and the private sector among others. The UN experts identified a wide consensus on the need for constitutional reform among national stakeholders, who acknowledged the need for long-term UN assistance in Guyana and anticipated benefiting from the UN’s support of constitutional reform and tapping the good practices of other countries. Guyana joined the UN in 1966 and relations have since resulted in the body having 12 branches in the country. (DPI)

GRDB fraud case...

GBTI directors, CEO charged --released on self-bail for contempt of court

EIGHT directors of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) were on Mondy hauled before the court for failing to comply with a production order issued by acting Chief Justice, Roxane George-Wiltshire. Their being placed before the courts is as a result of an ongoing Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) investigation into the US$500M fraud at the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB). On Monday, GBTI directors Edward A. Beharry, Suresh Beharry, Kathryn Eytle-McLean, Richard Isava, Carlton James and Basil Mahadeo; its chairman, Robin Stoby; and acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaleeza Shaw were all jointly charged and placed before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Eytle-McLean was charged in absentia, as she is currently out of the country on vacation. The charge against the directors says that on or before August 29 at Georgetown, they failed to comply with a production order issued by the acting Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire and served by a marshal of the High Court to produce certain named documents, within seven days, to SOCU head, Assistant Commissioner of Police Sydney James. It is alleged that they contravened the order without reasonable cause. The officers all denied the charge, and their attorney, Nigel Hughes, made a lengthy bail application for their release. According to Hughes, the matter is currently before the High Court and the bank was given an extension date to hand over the documents. With no objection raised by the SOCU prosecutor, Patrice Henry, the bank officials were released on self-bail and the matter was adjourned to November 20.

SOCU as part of its probe into the US$500M GRDB fraud case, had moved to the court to obtain an order instructing the GBTI to produce all the required documents to aid in the investigation. Recently, the Bank made an application before the Acting Chief Justice to be relieved from the production of the documents that were referred to in August 29, on the grounds that they have either been destroyed by the applicant after the applicant’s retention period had expired, or they have been lost and cannot be found despite diligent efforts to find them. The bank failed in its bid to be relieved from producing the documents. The bank is said to have an internal policy with regard to the retention of documents for its customers, however, the Anti- Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) legislation provides for banks and or financial institutions to maintain records for their customers up to a period of 10 years. As a result, the Attorney General’s Chambers contends that the bank’s internal policy cannot supersede that of the law. The bank’s application spoke specifically to documents which the bank thought have been destroyed after the retention period, as well as those which have been lost, likely to misfiling, and requested an extension or stay of three weeks from the date of the Production Order, to enable it to find and produce the documents which the production refers. That matter is adjourned until November 10. Under tough anti-money laundering laws, once court orders are granted, financial institutions are reportedly bound to provide information. In this case, the monies are not from private accounts, but rather from the US dollar and other accounts of GRDB, a state entity.

Some of the GBTI officials after their court appearance

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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Emphasis on Real Estate, Taxes and Business The Edgar Henry Column

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t is the general belief, that the most important declaration to the IRS is your wage income. Wrong! Wage income isn't the only earnings that the IRS taxes. For instance, are you saving money for your kid's college? Are you also saving for a new house or for retirement? Good for you, and also good for the taxman. “Sauce for the goose is also sauce for the gander.” STATEMENTS It’s nearing the end of October already and we have to be like the motto of the Boy’s Scouts – “Be Prepared.” By being prepared and getting organized is the first step in filing your taxes. Once you receive all your documents, you'll be ready to file your return at the earliest possible moment. (The IRS usually starts accepting returns around mid-January) The earlier you file, the sooner you'll get your refund. Whenever you receive statements from each of your account holders, you should be aware that copies of the forms are also sent to the IRS and the amount stated should not be ignored or neglected. For interest earnings, these documents are typically on Form 1099INT. If you've branched out into stocks or mutual funds, you should get a Form 1099-DIV for each stock, mutual fund or money market account. Reports on the proceeds from broker transactions, if you use one, will be sent to you on a Form 1099-B. IT IS CALLED AN INCOME TAX By the end of January, employees should get a Form W-2 from the boss showing how much was earned, how much is taxable and just what taxes were withheld. If you have more than one job,

you should get a Form W-2 from each employer. You say you're still waiting for your W-2? The IRS has a substitute form, Form

4852, which you can use in its place. You'll need last year's final pay stub for data to enter on the alternate W-2. Similarly, with your final paycheck stub, hang onto your year-end financial statements to compare with the official final tax documents such as your W-2 Form, to compare the figures verifying the accuracy. What some taxpayers do not realize that if the figures do not agree, the employer could

IRS is interested in your other assets as well have included disability or sick pay on your W-2, which differs from your last paycheck total. You need to know the difference since some sick pay and disability amounts are treated differently on your Form 1040. If you're an independent contractor, the company you worked for should send you a Form 1099-MISC showing your gross earnings. If you're self-employed, you have a bit more work to get organized. Track down all receipts and documentation for business-related expenses, from the mileage records you kept when using your car for business to the office equipment and supplies you bought to the utility bills you paid to keep the home-office lights on. MISCELLANEOUS INCOME Did you receive a state tax refund last year? Did you rent out that old house you fixed up? Did you finally settle into retirement? Thanks to those monthly pension checks? There's a place for each of these on your tax return, so start getting this paperwork in order. State and federal tax collectors work together. In the case of state tax refunds, that means the Form 1099-G that you get detailing your refund also goes to the IRS, so hang on to your copy and report it and ensure you give it to your certified tax preparer. Rental property can provide a nice

boost to your balance sheet. But make sure you keep track of all your expenses. These expenses can be used to offset your rental income, and that means less of your investment property earnings are taxable. Some retirement payouts are taxable, at least in part. To help you determine exactly how much you owe you'll receive a Form 1099-R showing how much was paid to you during the year. But what if it wasn't such a good year financially, let's say you were out of work for a while and collected unemployment. Sorry, but unemployment is taxable. You'll get a separate Form 1099-G for this, so it needs to go into your filing preparation package.

TAX TRIMMING STARTS AT HOME All right, you know what information you'll need to report your income. Now it's time to do the pre-filing preparation that could help you trim the taxable amount. Costs related to your home are a good place to start. Homeowners know the value of a mortgage interest and real estate taxes you pay because they are all deductible. Your lender will send you a Form 1098 with these amounts. You can check out your loan amortization schedule and get an idea of just what the deductible mortgage interest amount will be. If you made an extra mortgage payment at the end of last year to up that interest amount, make sure it's counted. Sometimes lenders use automatic reporting programs that overlook extra payments. You can still claim the extra interest; just make sure you document it in case the IRS follows up. Mortgage interest isn't limited to your primary residence. If you have a vacation home, interest on that loan will be on a separate Form 1098 -- and is just as deductible. And don't forget the interest you paid on a home equity loan. Your year-end loan account statement will tell you how much this was, and in most cases it's deductible on your Schedule A. Even if your tax situation isn't complicated, there's still documentation the Internal Revenue Service demands. But tax filing doesn't have to be an ordeal. And it can be less frustrating and less time-consuming if you have all the material at your fingertips. Failing to prepare is to prepare to fail. Get with it. “It is always better to have information and not need it than to need it and not have it.”

To have all your real estate questions answered — FREE CONSULTATION — call: Edgar Henry @ (718) 930-9526

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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Driving Sexual Abuse: Hyper-Masculinity and Power by MICHAEL DEREK ROBERTS

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ape and sexual abuse perpetuated by men against women is as old as time. For starters, back when the world was young and still male-dominated, women (and girls) were devalued, often considered as male property, and without the “natural rights” assigned to men. Arranged marriages between families were often for political and financial gains, all without the input, consent, or feelings of both girls and boys. Add to this, the still prevalent mindset that in the nuclear family, the husband and father occupies the dictatorial role as head of the household. Only males (men) were important and relevant. Females were irrelevant, only useful as family cooks, cleaners and child bearers; indeed they were just glorified servants, serving at the pleasure of men.

You’d think that all this has changed since the age of enlightenment. You’d be wrong. Dead wrong. There’s Harvey Weinstein, only the most recent demonstration of white, male privilege, hyper-masculinity and the intoxication caused by individual consumption of social, economic, financial power and prestige. The feeling of omnipotence by the natural selection of male superiority over women is what drives this kind of power and control. Men sexually abuse, rape and beat woman, and in many cases get away with it, because male-dominated society still tells them that they can. It’s that simple. Being a female in a so-called man’s world has always been fraught with many challenges for the much-touted “weaker sex.” Even this characterization — that women are inherently weaker in every way than men — helps drive this abhorrent behavior towards women. For example, in many Muslim and rigid religious, male-controlled societies, women and girls are still devalued, demeaned, and treated as property. Today, even in arguably enlightened Western societies, women are still objectified and their selfworth devalued. Women are the minorities in corporate American boardrooms, barely represented in many professions and industries, and discriminated against in the workplace by being paid less then men for the same jobs with the same, or better, qualifications. You see, I recognize that the Harvey Weinsteins of the world are deranged, insecure, little men-boys acting out their sexual fantasies on women precisely because their power, money, and prestige allows them to do it. So Weinstein represents only the symptom — not the cause(s) of sexual abuse against women in the workplace. Sexual violence — and that’s what sexual abuse in its many forms is — at the hands of men (the vast majority of perpetrators) is first driven by the simple reality of genetics. On average men are stronger than women so “taking a woman” against her will is not always that difficult. That’s straight “selection” of nature pure and simple.

In a modern world of chronic narcissism, instant gratification, fickle and fragile egos, and an insensitive disregard for consequences, sex is closely aligned and linked with violence. And in a society where violence is glorified, worshipped and a now-normal every day occurrence, women are the natural targets for men, drunk with their feelings of self-importance. Women saying “no or stop” is seen as a “diss,” an unforgivable slight, a blow to a man’s “manhood,” and a humiliation. Modern day males, jacked up on hyper-masculinity, are not big on dealing with or handling rejection. They take it personal and this only fuels a kind of morbid rage to “show women who is boss.” Weinstein may not have heard the word “no” uttered over and over again by his victims since his feelings of entitlement to any and everything that his money could buy — including women’s bodies — trumped everything. Trapped in his “boys are better than girls” mindset, sexual aggression and abuse came naturally. Male hyper-sexuality and raging libidos has been the subject of many and far more expert studies and analyses than mine. From the earliest times sex has been a confusing and least understood phenomenon. Also, the Christian Bible is littered with unflattering descriptions of women as whores, harlots, temptresses, Delilahs and Jezebels. The

HARVEY WEINSTEIN

Biblical Eve is blamed for Adam’s stupidity, a sniveling, poor excuse of a man, saying, “she (the women) made me do it.” This lessening of value and male propensity to see women as temptresses continues to this very day. In the backward religious view the man is the “head of the house” and is accountable to no one. He can have sex with his wife even if she does not want to. Up to now the common view and widely held belief is that a husband cannot rape his wife. Can you imagine the number of husband-on-wife rapes that take place in America each and every day? The upshot is that society also enables male misbehavior. Its only when players like Harvey Weinstein “go rogue” and embarrasses the establishment status quo that hypocrites that knew about these horrid activities, who setup the hush money systems, and looked the other way as abuse after abuse racked up, jump ship like scared rats and turn on the famous perpetrator. So why does this still happen in a society that shouts at the top of its lungs about empowering women? Is it just simple hypocrisy? Or is it something else? To me, as a layman, its all about

the embrace, promotion and sanctioning of all types of societal violence. Children are taught the virtues of always fighting back — not seek diplomatic, non-violent solutions to adversarial peer issues. Each and every day politicians of all hues and shades glorify the American soldier as the epitome and ultimate symbol of patriotism. And there’s no doubt that for the vast majority of Americans gun ownership is all about personal, constitutionally enshrined and supported, freedom. Its this pervasive violent thread that weaves throughout all of American society that drives this gung-ho, hero complex (mostly male) manifested by Hollywood’s heroes and villains — killing, raping, and physically beating, dragging and terrorizing women. And you wonder why men, especially rich and powerful men, have very little respect for women? Remember one such man boasting about “grabbing them by their private parts?” Yes, we must condemn sexual deviants like Harvey Weinstein. But as men we must do more than that: we must expose and condemn those predators in our midst that are not big name Hollywood movie moguls.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

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Rev. Al Sharpton Lectures at Medgar Evers College on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017

WHO: The Rev. Al Sharpton, National Action Network President and MSNBC Host WHEN: 10 A.M., Monday October 30, 2017

WHERE: Edison O. Jackson Auditorium, 1638 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn. Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York

WHAT: Rev. Sharpton is kicking off the College’s Male Development and Empowerment Center (MDEC) Lecture Series

WHY: Rev. Sharpton will discuss civic education and engagement

The lecture series is designed to expose MEC students and the Central Brooklyn community to experts in a variety of fields by providing a platform to share effective strategies and promote the holistic growth of Medgar Evers College students.

CARICOM: The Joke Of Democracy (from page 7) To make this happen these new ministers fire, retrench or transfer many of these experienced workers and fill their now vacant positions with green, inexperienced, and incompetent people adding to the structural weakness of these governments – a by product and hallmark of the Westminster Parliamentary system of government in the Caribbean. But the inherent weakness and undemocratic nature of the system is manifested in other says. The system allows for and creates “elected dictatorships.” Once the election is over the leader of winning party (now the ruling party) becomes the prime minister who in turn picks his Cabinet and fills top positions in the government. His or her decision in this regard is unquestioned and unchallenged. Besides, there is no process or system for recall of the prime minister or ministers of government by the electorate for real of perceived wrongdoing between elections. The prime minister assigns the heads of all government ministries. In fact, the prime minister can “reshuffle his/her cabinet” whenever he or she sees fit. When this happens it only adds to the level of incompetence and political chaos because reshuffles are very rarely done for the explanations, rationales, and outcomes that they are supposed to achieve. You see, reshuffles are done

for ONLY THREE REASONS. One, so that no minister gets comfortable in any government ministry. This is normally spun as “aiding and enhancing or boosting productivity.” Two, its done when the prime minister senses some disloyalty in the government and three to “weed out” deadwood and bring in new blood. So that the very basis of these reshuffles is the issue of promotions for loyalty and talent, demotions for unruliness or blundering, as well as bringing in new faces to freshen things up. It also offers prime ministers the opportunity to purge and put older party stalwarts and supporters out to pasture. Oftentimes reshuffles are not planned events but forced on the prime minister by some scandal, an abrupt resignation or other events necessitating a great change in a great haste. The power to appoint and dismiss ministers of government, and to move existing ministers to new posts, is a prerogative power exercised by the prime minister. Herein lies the summation that Caribbean governments are “elected dictatorships.” Prime ministers, in relative terms, have more power then the President of the United States. In cases when the ruling party control all of the seats (like the New National Party (NNP) in Grenada) abuse, corruption and incompetence runs amok. There are no checks and balances, no way to prevent opportunistic and draconian laws from

being passed or to curtail the powers of the prime minister. They oftentimes control the island’s finance, information, security and other portfolios. A combination and comingling of all these factors must of necessity lead to an indictment of the Westminster system of democracy in the Caribbean and its obvious failure and flaws. But that’s not to say that the system does not have any redeeming graces. Any democratic or political system in the region MUST take into consideration the uniqueness of the area, historical traditions, and the direct involvement of the people. Changing the faces from among the ruling classes every five years is not democracy. After over 50 years with no tweaking, changes, adaptations, additions or alterations of a system “handed to the region” is just plain lunacy. Caribbean regional democracy and systems of governance should uniquely look like Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica – not London’s House of Commons and Lords. This system has created and entrenched tribal, divisive politics in the Caribbean and sparked political violence as a byproduct. True, the region has come a very long way and there is some level of political maturity. But there still remains a stultifying, albatross-like noose around the necks of the region’s politics that cry out for change. However, for that to

happen there heeds to be political will or a major call from the people. Politicians are not going to change a system that has worked for them over these years no matter the constant call for change from opposition parties that suffer from political amnesia the minute they get into office. The political system in the Caribbean works for the benefit of a tiny minority who use it as a meal ticket and a way to reward their friends, families, members of their party and sundry hangers-on. With access to money and power these groups, hitherto poor and needy, suddenly become rich and join the ranks of their patrons. Meanwhile the masses continue to suffer in poverty hoodwinked and bamboozled (Malcolm X’s words) every five years. These political parasites simply change the faces but not the system. They set up a system that doles out a bare survival pittance to the vast majority of people dangling promises of “better days to come,” and, all the while, getting fat, rich and lazy on their ill-gotten gains. The symbiotic relationship between parties in government and those in the opposition are identical, cut from the same bolt of cloth, and motivated by the same things. The only nuanced difference is being the TACTICS used; both staying true to the substance of the system – self-aggrandizement, economic rape, and personal gains.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

New York Chronicle Horoscope

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CROSSWORD CROSSWORD

ISSUE 72 CROSSWORD ANSWER

ARIES (Mar. 21 - April 20) Your ideas are good and career moves can be realized. Love could develop with someone of a different cultural background. Your lover may not understand your needs so you must figure out a way to communicate them. Get out and experience the spice of life. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) If you try to manipulate emotional situations you will find yourself alienated. Rewards for past good deeds will be yours. You may win favors if you present your ideas and include your family. Unpleasant situations concerning family members will be unnerving. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Sunday.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Work quietly on your own and you will forge ahead. Refuse to get involved in idle chatter; it will only make you look bad. You may want to tell someone how you really feel. Your goals will be in reach if you direct your energy wisely. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Channel your energy into projects that will enhance your home. Organize your day to avoid any setbacks that might ignite temper flare-ups. You can’t live your life for others. You’ll communicate easily and develop new friendships. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Thursday. LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) Concentrate on your job. You should catch up on correspondence. Love and romance are evident. You will receive many good leads in your quest to acquire more business in your line of work. Let your good humor and charitable heart lead you on. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Career changes may not be your choice right now, but in the long run they will be to your advantage. Emotional disputes will only end in sorrow. Don’t let your emotional partner upset you this month. You will gain knowledge through your adventure. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Thursday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) Pushy people must be kept at arm’s length. Compromise will be necessary. Help others solve their dilemmas. You’ll find travel or involvement in large groups gratifying. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Friday. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You can make money if you put your mind to it. Make love, not war, and all will be fine. Broaden your horizons and look into programs that will teach you awareness and relaxation. You’re apt to make a move or experience changes at home. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Thursday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Be sure to cover all the necessary groundwork before signing binding contracts. Friends may not be completely honest with you. Speak of your future goals, intentions, and commitments. You are best to sit back and think it through, rather than add to the ranting and raving. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Saturday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You need to make your environment a better place, with more comforts and a better entertainment center. Get out and have some fun. You just hate waste, and when someone else costs you dearly you see red. You can write beautiful love letters this month. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Sunday. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Opportunities to expand your circle of friends will result in possible new romantic encounters. Do not expect others to do your work. Take a trip or just spend some quality time with your mate. Spend time by yourself to avoid any conflicts with family members. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) Travel will enhance romance and adventure. You should get out and meet new people this month. You may find that others do not do things the way you want; however, if the job gets done, let it pass. Be aggressive and colorful, and you will get your way. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Wednesday.

ACROSS 1. Part of a Swiss range 4. “Don’t bet ___ (2 wds.) 8. Wharton grads 12. Response to an IM joke 13. Single 14. Killer whale 15. West of old movies 16. ___ ranch 17. Fencing match 18. Tylenol alternative 20. ___ fly 22. Bring suit 23. Mob man’s gal 24. Definite thing 26. Honorable mention 30. Reagan Jr.’s nickname 31. Angry with (2 wds.) 32. “Tell ___ story”

W O R D F I N D

C O M P U T E R

APACHE BASIC BIFF BOOTING BROWSER BUG BYTE COBOL COOKIE E-MAIL GOOGLE GOPHER HOST HOTMAIL HTML JAVASCRIPT KERNEL LINUX

5. Thing, in grammar 6. Not Rep. or Dem. 7. Abstain from alcohol 8. Early car (2 wds.) 9. Macho toiletry brand 10. High cards (2 wds.) 11. Boutique event 33. The “I” in IRS 19. ___-and-dried 35. “Rats!” 21. Thin board 36. Youngster’s claim 23. Golden-touch king 37. Equip 24. Angle starter 38. Shop without buying 25. Sweetie pie 41. Mingling 26. Capital of Australia 44. “Arrivederci, ___ 27. Supposes 45. Air ___ shelter 28. Above, anthem-style 47. And not 29. Bert Bobbsey’s twin 48. Imitator 31. Some hospital tests (abbr.) 49. Dull repetition 34. ___ G. Robinson 50. Wind dir. 35. Fort ___ 51. Be inclined 37. Goes by bus 52. Heights (abbr.) 38. Naughty child 53. ___ sauce. 39. Lasso 40. Prophecy DOWN 41. Oven glove 1. ___ mater 42. Taboo (hyph.) 2. ___ shark 43. Actress Jennifer 3. Nice 44. Yahoo competitor 4. Song from the ’60s

L I N G O LOTUS MOZILLA ORACLE PENTIUM PERL PINE PING PROGRAM SERVER SOFTWARE SOSUMI SPAM TROJAN HORSE UNIX VIRUS WIKI WORM

ISSUE 72 WORDFIND ANSWER

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

HEALTH CITY CAYMAN ISLANDS MAKES HISTORY, INTRODUCES NEW DEVICE TO TREAT HEART FAILURE CAYMAN ISLANDS — For the first time in the Caribbean, Central and South America, a leading physician has implanted a Cardiac Contractility Modulation (CCM) device to treat heart failure.

Dr. Ravi Kishore, Chief Interventional Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist at Health City Cayman Islands, implanted the device in a Cayman Islands resident in August, making medical history in the region. "This is the first time we have introduced this device in the entire Caribbean. It's an investigational device so it's not routinely implanted in patients in the U.S. and none of them have been implanted in Central America and South America. In that sense, I think we have introduced yet another novel therapy in the region," Dr. Kishore said. The device used for this procedure is the Optimizer IVs Active Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) by Impulse Dynamics, which is intended for the treatment of heart

nization therapy (CRT) where we implant a special pacemaker, which kind of normalizes the conduction abnormality in the heart. All patients are not eligible for this, it depends on what the shape of the electrocardiogram (ECG) is like, and in some patients where the ECG does not allow a beneficial impact because of CRT we need to look at alternative options," Dr. Kishore explained. Between 60 percent and 70 percent of patients are not eligible for traditional CRT, and are, therefore, potential candidates for CCM therapy. Dr. Kishore said: "We had one such eligible patient who had to have recurrent hospital admissions despite treatment with medication. His pumping function had

Dr. Ravi Kishore, Chief Interventional Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist at Health City Cayman Islands.

failure through delivery of CCM signals. CCM device implantation is currently conducted only on an investigational basis in the United States, however CCM devices are approved and available for clinical use in all European Union countries as well as Australia, Turkey, India and Hong Kong. While CCM therapy is not approved for clinical use in the United States, a study has been initiated to obtain U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. "We are very happy introducing a new device for our patients in the Cayman Islands . . . this is specifically used in patients with congestive heart failure where the heart pumping function has come down in spite of medications," Dr. Kishore said. He explained how CCM therapy works: "The CCM device functions by giving non-contractile stimuli to the heart. It modulates the metabolism of the heart in such a way that its contractile function improves." In contrast to other electrical stimulation treatments for heart failure, such as pacemaker therapy and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), CCM does not affect the cardiac rhythm directly. Rather, the aim is to enhance the heart's natural contraction sustainably over long periods of time. "One of the traditional methods for this has been what is called cardiac resynchro-

come down to something like 25 percent to 30 percent, normal is 60 percent. By doing this particular device he is showing a remarkable improvement, just at two weeks after implant." Patient Howard Vernon described the symptoms that brought him to Health City: "I became sick, I started to become short of breath, I noticed that things I used to do, it would take a little bit more time or I would get tired quicker." However, soon after the CCM device was implanted, Vernon noticed great improvement: "Everything has been great since day one with them, and even after the surgery. For sure, not short of breath since the surgery. They gave me the ok to start back exercise and I (started) back working about a week ago, and so far, I feel much, much better." Dr. Kishore outlined exactly how the device he implanted helps to improve heart function: "This is the pulse generator which is implanted in the right side in this patient below the skin and below the collarbone. It is connected by leads and two of these leads implanted in the bottom chamber of the heart, called the right ventricle. They are implanted in positions different than the conventional pacemaker position. So what the machine does is between these two leads it generates an electrical field, which stimulates the heart during a particular

phase, electrical phase, and although it doesn't actually contract the heart, it will stimulate the metabolism in the heart and allow for better contraction, and in the long term it improves the functionality of the whole." Heart failure is a chronic disease that usually progresses gradually. The rate of progression and the degree of symptoms of the disease varies between different patients. CCM therapy aims to treat heart failure through a medium- to long-term treatment, over the course of weeks and months. "That is the main goal - to make sure the heart has the right beat and it doesn't go any lower than that and it shouldn't over a period of time, as long as I am doing what they ask me to do and I am taking the medication along with this device," Vernon said. After the CCM device implantation wound is healed, the lifestyle of a patient is not restricted by the implanted device. The patient can return to normal, physical activity - including travel, leisure activities and exercise without ill effects, and may perceive an improved capacity for these activities. Vernon, who was very pleased with his results, said: "Dr. Ravi is very easy to understand, and he gets to the point and he believes in showing you what can be done...Yes, I would definitely recommend Health City to anyone, anytime. With my

past experience with them, I definitely would."

Health City patient Howard Vernon.

ABOUT HEALTH CITY CAYMAN ISLANDS Health City Cayman Islands, the vision of renowned heart surgeon and humanitarian Dr. Devi Shetty, is supported by two major health-care organizations, Narayana Health and the U.S.-based Ascension, which is America's largest faith-based and nonprofit health system, providing the highest quality care to all, with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable. Health City, only the second hospital in the Caribbean to receive the Joint Commission International's "hospital accreditation", provides compassionate, high-quality, affordable health-care services in a worldclass, comfortable, patient-centered environment. Offering health care to local, regional and international patients, Health City Cayman Islands delivers excellence in adult and pediatric cardiology, cardiac surgery, cardiac electrophysiology, medical oncology, orthopedics, sports medicine, pediatric endocrinology, gastrointestinal and bariatric surgery, neurology, interventional neurology and neuro-diagnostics, neurosurgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, gynecology, urology, colorectal surgery, dental, sleep lab and pulmonology services. For further information, visit www.healthcitycaymanislands.com

An image of the CCM device implanted in the patient's chest.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

Aaliyah Anthony is Lethem queen A

ALIYAH Anthony was last Saturday morning crowned as queen of the first Ms Lethem Town Week. Anthony, whose platform was centred on tourism, wooed the large crowd gathered for the inaugural event with her confidence, intelligence, and eloquence. The 18-year-old, who is employed by the Guyana Bureau of Statistics, spoke extensively on sustainable tourism and the green economy within Lethem and noted that same would open up “a world of opportunity for Lethem.” Meanwhile, Azeema Xavier, Leanna Lindie, Narissa Torres and Rochelle Hodge were also shortlisted as finalists. Hodge won Ms. Congeniality, while Torres won three prizes, including Best Smile, Best Gown and Best talent. Xavier carted off the Ms Best Swim Suit Body prize, while Shundel Simon and Pearl Rodrigues won Ms Punctuality and Most Improved in Fitness, respectively.

Aaliyah Anthony smiles brightly after being crowned Ms. Lethem Town Week. She is flanked by the first and second runners-up, Azeema Xavier, right, and Narissa Torres, left. (Delano Williams photo)

The five finalists hold hands before the judges announced the winner of the Ms. Lethem Town Week (Delano Williams photo)

New arch lends spot of colour to Camp Street - also serves as poignant reminder of Guyana’s commitment to the SDGs

T

HE United Nations Guyana on Tuesday afternoon erected an arch on Camp Street to mark United Nations Day and to also sensitise the public about the work of the UN. The archway is part of a broader advocacy campaign to raise awareness here about the importance of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and how those goals can help make Guyana a better place in which to live. The goals are a universal set of targets and indicators that UN member states are expected to use to frame their agendas and political policies over the next 15 years. They also seek to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change. Guyana, together with the United Nations, has begun to mobilise efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Agenda by 2030. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who was tasked with cutting the ceremonial ribbon to declare the archway open, noted that the arch is a reminder that in the journey to achieving these goals, there

PM and UN Resident Coordinator, Ms Mikiko Tanaka at the commissioning of the arch on the avenue on Camp Street

are several stepping stones. “In Guyana, we have been making incremental progress in our development to meet the basic needs, and we count on the United Nations to guide us and help us as a partner,” he said. According to UN Resident Coordinator, Mikiko Tanaka, “The road to the SGDs is long and bumpy, but we have to take the journey from where we stand.” In an effort to educate the public about the work and role of the 12 local UN agencies, a number of informational booths were available to guide the public in that regard.

Suicide and mental health, HIV and AIDS, food and nutrition priority, and decentralisation are some of the major areas on which the UN organisations are working to develop in Guyana. In a message to mark the occasion, Secretary-General António Guterres said: “The world’s problems transcend borders; we have to transcend our differences to transform our future. When we achieve human rights and human dignity for all people, they will build a peaceful, sustainable and just world.” (DPI)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017

ONE NATION, OVERDOSED!

The ALBERT BALDEO Column come addicted to prescription painkillers often become victims to heroin or synthetic opioids when it becomes too difficult to obtain or too expensive to keep obtaining prescription pills. "60 Minutes" and the Washington Post recently highlighted how an act of Congress helped fuel the epidemic of addiction in a joint investigation recently. Whistleblowers revealed how the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act of 2016, which was unanimously approved, derailed DEA efforts to crack down on suspect pharmacies that are distributing millions of pills in ravaged communities. It is mandatory that law enforcement and other criminal justice agencies, public health departments, drug treatment and social service providers, elected officials, and others, step up and coordinate their efforts to prevent new cases of opioid addiction, while providing addicted

America’s Opioid Crisis

“Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up rising in the U.S. for nearly 30 years and totaled 44,193 in 2015. every time we fail.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson Approximately 75% of all drug “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’” — Muhammad Ali

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), show that 64,070 people died from drug overdoses in 2016. This represents a staggering 21 percent increase from the year before, and confirm that more Americans died from drug overdoses in 2016 than the number of American lives lost in the entirety to the Vietnam War-which totaled 58,200! Often unnoticed as a silent epidemic on account of the headline grabbing nature of its sensational rivals, drug related calamities cannot be swept under the rug any longer. The opioid epidemic ravaging

the United States is taking a grim and growing toll. Its horrible effects spares no family in America, rich or poor, black or white, and are not restricted by any boundaries. All of us are in this, together. Indeed, last year's 64,070 drug fatalities far outnumbered: — The 35,092 motor vehicle deaths in 2015. — AIDS-related deaths in the worst year of the AIDS crisis, when 50,628 people died in 1995. — The peak year for homicides in the U.S., when 24,703 people were murdered in 1991. — Suicides, which have been

overdose deaths are now caused by opioids, a class of drugs that includes prescription painkillers as well as heroin and potent synthetic versions, like Fentanyl. Data also show that overdoses of synthetic drugs, such as Fentanyl, which is 50 to 100 times stronger than the painkiller morphine, are driving the sharp increases in opioid overdose deaths. A new report from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), an independent research organization that focuses on "critical issues in policing," puts those numbers into context. Statistics point to the fact that the opioid crisis is fueled by the drug industry and Congress’s failure to do enough, as the epidemic continues to spiral out of control. The CDC identified 15,466 deaths from heroin overdoses in 2016, while 20,145 deaths were caused by Fentanyl or

America’s continued success has been affected greatly by its drug epidemic, and the hypocritical approach of those who reap huge profits from this state of affairs.

other synthetic opioids. Additionally, a survey conducted by PERF of its member police chiefs earlier this year found half of the respondents reported an increase in fatal heroin overdoses in their jurisdiction in 2016 compared to 2015, and 45 percent reported an increase in drug overdose deaths attributed to fentanyl during that time. Twentythree percent reported an increase in fatal overdoses due to prescription opioid medications. This is consistent with research suggesting that many people who be-

persons with medical and social services through the long and difficult process of getting free of the drug scourge. This is a national crisis which must be addressed immediately! Note: Albert Baldeo is a civil rights activist and community advocate. As President of the Baldeo Foundation and Queens Justice Center, he has continued the fight for justice, equal rights, dignity and inclusion in the decision making process. He can be contacted at the Baldeo Foundation: (718) 529-2300.

18 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, October 25, 2017 25

Sophia squatters warned By Svetlana Marshall SQUATTERS constructing new buildings on government’s reserves in the Sophia/Cummings Lodge area can see these illegal structures being pulled to pieces as soon as today, Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lelon Saul has warned. “We will break down all buildings under construction…. All structures under construction will be taken down,” Saul told reporters on Tuesday while standing in proximity to the Lamaha Conservancy in Sophia where squatters are in the process of erecting illegal structures on the dam. On Tuesday, new structures were seen being constructed on government’s reserve, including concrete buildings, but CH&PA made it clear that the construction of new structures would not be tolerated. Saul said the demolition exercise would be carried out within the next two weeks, but could start as soon as today. Security systems are in place to ensure that the demolition team would not be hindered in the execution of its job. “We have all systems in place to address that, to address all acts of disobedience or anyone who would want to cause harm to the persons involved in the exercise,” he explained. While CH&PA has given persons squatting on government’s reserves in Sophia up until January 30, 2018 to remove their structures, the CEO said squatting remains a serious concern with environmental, health, social and economic implications. There are over 500 persons squatting in the Sophia/ Cumming’s Lodge area. On Tuesday, a team from the CH&PA led by the CEO

gave media operatives a firsthand view of the impact of squatting in the Sophia/Cummings Lodge area with specific focus on the areas lining the Lamaha Conservancy. At a glance, the water-logged, garbage-faeces-strewn, mosquito-infested surroundings were hard to ignore. In other cases, the makeshift houses were surrounded by overgrown vegetation impeding the draining network in the area. Illegal occupancy means that the squatters are not serviced by Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and Guyana Power and Light (GPL), and as such, they have adopted illegal means of acquiring, for instance, electricity. Squatting in proximity to the Lamaha Water Conservancy is a major health and

CH&PA CEO Lelon Saul speaking to reporters on the impact of squatting in Sophia on Tuesday afternoon (Samuel Maughn photo)

environmental concern, the CH&PA CEO emphasised, noting that it is a source of drinking water. “There are persons squatting on the dam, pit latrines are also in close proximity of the conservancy… apart from that, people swim inside of the conservancy, they dump trash inside of the conservancy and these are the things we are trying to combat to ensure the safety of citizens,” Saul stated. A number of illegal structures were seen lining the dam of the conservancy in addition to government’s reserves in other locations within the Sophia/Cummings Lodge area. Reiterating that the CH&PA has zero tolerance for the construction of new structures, Saul noted that the close to 300 squatters who have been given eviction notices with a dead-

These are just a few of the many illegal buildings lining the dam of the Lamaha Conservancy in the Sophia/Lamaha area (Samuel Maughn photo)

One of the many illegal buildings on the government’s reserve in Sophia (Samuel Maughn photo)

line of January 31, 2018 must relocate once they have viable alternatives. “We hope to work with those persons and we will do it taking into consideration all of the challenges those people are confronted with,” he posited. For those persons who would have difficulties, Saul said the housing authority has committed to assisting them. “We will work with the residents to find a viable alternative. Come January 31, 2018, if there are people still on the reserve and there is no other viable alternative, we will continue to work with these people to ensure that we find suitable accommodation for them,” he explained. The CH&PA is encouraging all squatters to submit their applications for house- lots. During a press conference on Monday, Minister within the Ministry of Communities with responsibility for Housing, Valerie Adams-Yearwood, stated that the CH&PA is in the process of implementing a plan that will offer houselots to those persons who can afford to build. For those unable to construct a dwelling, the government is seeking funding to build core homes. Industry has been identified as the area where the homes will be constructed. “We don’t just want to give them a houselot because we know if they can’t afford to build, they are going to put a shack and all we are doing is moving one shanty town from one area to another. That is not what we want, as we relocate, we are going to upgrade,” Minister Adams-Yearwood explained. She reminded that the exercise will be a costly one and persons must be patient.

This concrete building is being illegally constructed on government’s reserve. Such buildings/structures under construction will be demolished by CH&PA (Samuel Maughn photo)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 27, 2017 25 26 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 2017

Foreigners among nine arrested

NINE males have been arrested by the police after they were found on Tuesday with two rifles, with one magazine each and a total of 19 live rounds of ammunition in the North West District. According to a statement from the police, one of the rifles is an AR-15 and the other an AK-47. The men were also found with 1.5 kilograms of cannabis; one bulletproof vest; two boats, one powered by a 250hp engine and the other by a lighter 48hp engine. The police say that based on information received, the gang of armed men were in the Churches Landing mining community and were seen to be acting suspiciously and appeared to be a mix of foreign nationals and Guyanese. Of the three foreign nationals who have been arrested, one is Cuban, one Jamaican and the other Ven-

--in North West arms, ‘ganja’ bust

The weapons and other items that were uncovered in the North West bust

ezuelan. Said the police in its statement, “This arrest is very significant, as several weeks ago there were reports

of piracy in the Waini River area, several miles from the Police Floating Base MV Tamakay.” The suspects are re-

portedly being brought to the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters, Eve Leary, for further investigations.

‘Panta’ freed of cocaine-infish charges

ON Wednesday at the Leonora Magistrates Court, Magistrate Rushell Liverpool dismissed the case against fish trader, Mohamed Alli, called “Panta”, who was charged for being in possession of nine kilos of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Alli, 51, of La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara was accused of being in possession of 9.044 kilograms of cocaine on June 7, 2016 at Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, for the purpose of trafficking. Magistrate Liverpool ruled in favour of attorney Bernard DaSilva's no-case submission on the grounds that the prosecution had failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the elements

of possession. Alli’s two children, Shafaur, 27, and Lazeena Imrazi, 22, were freed in relation to the said charge in June by City Magistrate Leron Daly in relation to the drugs which were found in June 2016 at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). Upon arrival at the airport, they declared 33 boxes of fish to be exported. But when Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) officials searched the boxes, they found the illegal substance in the fish. CANU ranks were able to arrest Mohammed Ali after a wanted bulletin was issued for his arrest in July 2016 for his connection to the drug bust at the airport.

Guyanese miner Ranks to be charged Brazilian killed by peacemaker A BRAZILIAN man was The duo had an arguTuesday shot dead ment and in a bid to be a for prisoner’s escape onat Dukwarie, killed in Venezuela a mining peacemaker, a member of

FOUR ranks, three police constables and one prison officer, are to be charged soon under the Criminal Law Offences (Act) Chapter 8:01 in relation to the escape of a prisoner from the Lusignan Prison, East Coast Demerara on October 4. On the said date, Dellon Blake, who is on remand for a rape charge, escaped from the facility reportedly in clear sight of the ranks. A detective superintendent of

police was deputed to conduct the investigation which has since been completed and the report was submitted for legal advice. Blake, 35, reportedly used his bed sheet and wooden pallets to help himself over the fence on the north- western side in full view of police ranks performing duties in the guard hut tower. The tower overlooks the new holding facility at the Lusignan Prison and the area was well illuminated.

community located in the Cuyuni, Region Seven, after a peacemaker attempted to part an argument the Brazilian had with his wife, police said Wednesday. The shooting took place at about 10:00hrs and according to initial information, the man and his wife operated a shop in the community.

a private security service who was armed with a shotgun intervened. The Brazilian man who was also armed, but with a cutlass, rebuffed the man. It was during that time that the firearm was discharged resulting in the Brazilian’s death. The security officer is in custody assisting the police with the investigation.

CANU asked to secure more convictions

--ranks urged to be professional,not fall prey to drugs

THE need for transformational change and maintaining professionalism is the main focus of a week-long capacity building narcotics training workshop, which commenced on Monday at the Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue and Camp

To advertise in this newspaper call Dennis at: 917-379-6590

Street, Thomas Lands, Georgetown. At the opening of the exercise for Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) officers, as part of the unit’s annual staff training, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, in calling on the officers to secure more convictions, reminded them of their role in the fight against drug trafficking. He told the officers that their “record must be improved as it regards convictions and convictions. More or less it is the epitome, the very top. When you get a conviction as a unit, that is but the pride, that is but the big success that you would all want, and so we have to do better in relation to convictions.” In noting that the inability to secure sentences or convictions is not a reflection of innocence, the minister reminded, however, that the court has a high standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt or “beyond the shadow of a doubt” and as such it requires every piece of evidence in order for that person to be convicted. He encouraged the ranks to use the

workshop as a stepping stone and not be discouraged, as narcotics smuggling must be viewed as injurious to the democracy and economy. He described the act as an “extremely evil thing” adding, that while it has garnered billions of dollars for a small number of people, at the same time it has destroyed the lives of many families. Minister Ramjattan in imploring of the officers to be professional and not to fall prey to the lucrative lifestyle the smuggling of narcotics may portray, reminded that it is only through ethics and professionalism that they will become distinguished officers. “Though you may be unit officers, the money that goes with it, you would want to say well why not give it a try, one blink and that is it. I can be successful, no you must not. It is an extraordinarily dangerous undertaking, to the extent that even if you are successful, in that little fling, you are going to destroy the lives of so many people” the Minister stated.

Davin Saywack

A GUYANESE miner, who was reportedly threatened by Venezuelan “sindicatos,” was shot execution style at a mining site in the neighouring country on Tuesday. Dead is 25-year-old Davin Saywack, who lived in the North West District prior to his death. He was killed in an area called “Mondo backdam” in Venezuela. Reports are that the man was threatened by Spanish-speaking gunmen who are said to be in control of mining lands in Venezuela’s border region close to Guyana. Following the threats, the gunmen executed the miner late on Tuesday afternoon. Relatives and friends were in disbelief as news of the man’s death reached these shores. In recent months, a number of Guyanese miners have been attacked and robbed on both sides of the border by suspected Venezuelan gunmen. Several persons have lost their lives to the bandits.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending October 27, 27, 2017 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 2017

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West Indian cricketers Who scored 100 in Test Debut (from page 5)

joined Sir Everton deCourcey Weekes and this partnership accounted for 219 runs. It was a record, which lasted 49 years until this fifth wicket stand was eclipsed by Carl Hooper and Shivnarine Chanderpaul partnership, which scored 293 at Bourda. Pairaudeau’s last Tests came on the West Indies tour of England in 1957. He was 26. Career Stats Pairaudeau played in 13 Tests, scored 454 with a batting average of 21.61 COLLIE SMITH Born O’neil Gordon Smith May 5, 1933 in Kingston, Jamaica, he was a brilliant all-rounder, who died in a car accident at age 26. During his Test career, he had shown promise of becoming the greatest all-rounder of all-time. As Arunabha Sengupta, the great cricket historian, puts it, “He batted with aggressive fluency and bowled inspired spells of spin.” I must add that he was the best fielder on the West Indies team. “The Mighty Mouse” made an unforgettable century on his Test debut against Australia in 1955. This Australian team featured, what some have called “the most formidable bowling attack of all-time.” It included Alan Davidson, Ray Lindwall, Keith Miller, Richard Johnson and Ron Archer. He made his Test debut in 1955 against Australia, scoring 104. In 1957 against England in England, he scored 161 in the first Test and 168 in the third Test. Collie was a useful bowler and modelled himself after the great English spin-

ner Jim Laker. He was an exceptional fielder. After Collie’s tragic death September 9, 1959, due to a car accident Sir Garfield Sobers, who was a close friend of Collie Smith said, “We had some wonderful innings together. They were beginning to call me a great all-rounder. Collie was a greater all-rounder than me.”

COLLIE SMITH

CONRAD HUNTE

Statistics Batting: Tests 26, scored 1,131, batting average 31.69, Bowling: bowled 4,431 balls, 48 wickets, average 33.85. SIR CONRAD HUNTE KA Sir Conrad Cleophas Hunte was born May 9, 1932 in St. Andrew, Barbados and died December 9, 1999 in Sydney, Australia. He was one of the West Indies greatest openers and one the best batsmen of his generation. He scored 142 in his Test debut against Pakistan in the 1957-58 series. In the third Test at Kingston, he made 260. He accepted his roles as second fiddle to Sir Garfield, who opened with him and scored a majestic 365, not out (which was his first Test century). When Sir Frank Worrell retired, Sir Conrad, as Worrell’s vice-captain, expected the captaincy; but Sir Garfield was

chosen instead. During his playing period, Sir Conrad scored more runs than any opening batsman in the world.

Statistics Tests 44, scored 3,245 with a batting average of 45.06. ALVIN KALLICHARRAN

ALVIN KALLICHARRAN GORDON GREENIDGE

This elegant, watchful West Indies batsman was born March 21, 1949 at Port Moraunt, Berbice, Guyana. In Clive Lloyd’s words, “Kallicharran is one of the best players of spin bowling I have seen . . . This is not to say that he was inadequate against pace, and, at his best, is the complete player.” He made his Test debut in the 4th Test of West Indies versus New Zealand in 1972 at Georgetown. The little man scored 100 not out and in the 5th and final Test at Port-of-Spain scored 101. Many regard his 158 against England at Port-ofSpain in 1974 as his best Test inning. He made a century in India in November 1974, followed by another in Pakistan in March 1975. In a six-Test series in 1978 in India, he scored 157, his highest Test score. He scored another century in the West Indies tour to Australia in the third Test in 1979.

Kallicharran’s decision to join the Kerry Packer’s tour to South Africa angered the West Indies Cricket Board of Control (WICB), which banned all the players on that tour for life. Alvin Kallicharan, “Only 32 then, and on his way to securing a place among the pantheon of greats, became an object of hatred. He received death threats and was snubbed by his community, cricket board and teammates.” Who knows what he might have become if he had continued playing for the West Indies. At any rate, his place as one of the best West Indies cricketers of all time is secure. Statistics Tests: 66, scored 4,399, average 44.43, scored 12 100s.

GORDON GREENIDGE Born Cuthbert Gordon Levine on May 1, 1951 at Black Bess, St. Peter, Barbados, he is one of the best openers of all time in West Indies cricket. He moved with his mother to England at age 14 and changed his name to Greenidge, the surname of his stepfather. He made his Test debut in the first Test against India at Bengaluru in the November 22-27, 1974-1975 series. In the first inning he scored 90 and in the second inning, he scored a majestic 107. Greenidge formed half of the West Indies brilliant opening partnership with Desmond Haynes. The pair made 6,482 runs while batting together in partnerships, the highest total for a batting partnership in Test cricket history. Statistics He played 108 Test matches, scored 7,558 with 19 hundreds at an average of 44.72.

Get with the programme --GCCI urges Lindeners to put house in order to benefit from ‘oil money’

By Vanessa Braithwaite LINDEN businessmen were on Monday encouraged to become oil-ready as the time for the first oil production is quickly approaching. This encouragement was given by President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce (GCC), Mr. Deodat Indar, who, accompanied by former T&T Energy Minister, Mr. Kevin Ramnarine, organised a sensitisation forum with members of the Linden Chamber of Commerce (LCC) and entrepreneurs in Linden. Indar said that having realised that there were concerns on how the common man will benefit from the wealth that will be derived from the oil production and how Guyanese businesses

GCCI President, Deodat Indar

can play its role in the entire process, he decided to embark on a countrywide sensitisation campaign to bring cognisance to local businesses and to the several Chambers of Commerce across Guyana, informing each one on how the members can get involved. Linden was the first stop in the campaign, and during

Indar and Ramnarine (fourth and sixth left respectively) with some of the Linden businessmen who attended the meeting

the upcoming days, Indar as well as Ramnarine will be visiting the Berbice and West Demerara Chambers of Commerce. Indar’s main advice to the Linden businessmen is to get their businesses legally registered and documented. And, having done that, the next step, he said, is to

get registered with ExxonMobil. Noting that the rergistration process is very siple, Indar said: “If a Guyanese company can do something, let them do it; once you have the capacity, you should be given a chance.” Exxon, he said, has facilitated the process on its website and has even fa-

cilitated training for local entrepreneurs through its local content policy. Indar made it clear that there are several types of businesses that can become suppliers of both goods and services for Exxon. “They have business like catering, disposal of waste, supplying them with stuff like slings, food, water, labour, fur-

niture for their office,” he said, adding: “They need places to rent; all of these things they need. Exxon does not do anything for themselves; everything is a contract...” Being a simple supplier to the company, he said, does not require any technical skill and so there is nothing to it. All one needs do, he said, is to simply apply on Exxon’s website and attend training. Once you are registered on the website, Exxon automatically informs the applicant on any future training along their line of interest. Training is available to the various categories of local suppliers, so as to educate them on the company’s requirements in terms of both quality and quantity.

Bramble, Hemraj prop up Jaguars’ batting – on first day PROVIDENCE, Guyana, (CMC – Half-centuries from Anthony Bramble and Chanderpaul Hemraj led Guyana Jaguars’ batting against Jamaica Scorpions in the Regional 4-Day Championship on Thursday. Bramble hit the top score of 62 and Hemraj made 60, as the Jaguars, sent in to bat, reached 258 for eight in the first innings at the close on the first day of their first round match at the Guyana National Stadium. After Hemraj held the top half of the Jaguars’ batting together with a 102-ball knock that included seven fours and one six, it was wicketkeeper/batsman Bramble and all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford that gave the innings momentum late in the day. Bramble struck six fours from 122 balls and Rutherford supported with 45, sharing 83 for the seventh wicket before they were both dis-

missed in the final hour. Earlier, Derval Green made the breakthrough, when he had discarded West Indies opener Rajindra Chandrika caught behind for 25, after he and Tagenarine Chanderpaul grinded through the first hour. Just when it looked like Chanderpaul would bat through until lunch, spinner Dennis Bulli removed him for an obdurate 14 from 77 balls. Jaguars captain Leon Johnson and former Guyana Under-15 captain Bhaskar Yadram consolidated with a stand of 45 either side of lunch before they swept away in a period of instability that saw the Jaguars crash from 96 for three to 150 for six. Damani Sewell was the most successful bowler in the period, ending the day with 3-69 from 28 overs; Bulli and Green grabbed seven to slow the Jaguars’ progress.

Anthony Bramble pulls during his innings yesterday.

‘Golden Jaguars’ could play more games in the AFC, says GFF president ..to face Indonesia on November 25

By Rawle Toney GUYANA’s senior Men’s national football team, popularly known as the ‘Golden Jaguars’, will make an historic maiden voyage to the continent of Asia, where they will face Indonesia on Saturday November 25. The game against Indonesia will be only the second time Guyana will be facing a team from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), having faced India twice – 1984 and 2011. However, Wayne Forde, president of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), said that while the trip to the predominantly Muslim country is their first, it will not be their last. In fact, Forde said that the GFF will also be announcing another engagement against the team from the AFC shortly. “What you’re seeing is a strategic rolling out of our plan for our senior national programme” Forde told reporters, adding that

his administration had spent a considerable amount of time in office building capacity and putting in place, plans for continued development at the youth level; both male and female with the setting up and rolling out of the Academy Training Centres (ATC) across the country. “The thing is, we will also, very soon, be announcing engagements as far as Africa and with the resumption of the Elite League, it will bring added incentives for our senior players” said Forde. Both Guyana and Indonesia are ranked at 165 in the world by the sport’s global governing body (FIFA) and Forde said that the GFF will continue to target countries around similar rankings, and, eventually, will face the more prominently ranked teams in other confederations. Meanwhile, Technical Director of the GFF, Ian Greenwood stated that the engagement against Indonesia “will be a fantastic

The Indonesia National Football Team

opportunity for our players to experience a different type of play and a different type of opposition.” “The GFF Technical Department has been pushing our players to have adaptable skills and to function effectively in any environment, as we are looking to build in 2018 which will be a competitive year,” Greenwood added. Prior to their journey to Indonesia, Guyana will face Caribbean football powerhouse Trinidad and Tobago on November 14, an official FIFA date, at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

Guyana’s head coach Wayne Dover pointed out that “these games are very important as they will allow for assessment of our team’s calibre and serve as platforms to expose our local talent.” Dover added, “Should we get a positive result, it will augur well for sponsorship, attract more local players to the fraternity and improve our Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) ranking. All this will serve to create a firm national team that can truly reflect a strong Guyana National Team.”