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ISSUE NO. 29

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23,2016

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Returning

slam MANY Guyanese returning home or those visiting for the holidays complained bitterly upon arrival at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) after being stranded at the John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport in New York for several days. Despite efforts from the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) to spread the Guyanese Christmas Cheer to incoming passengers, not

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she claimed. "They gave us one cup of water and a small bag of pretzels." Another passenger, while not directly giving a comment to the media, exclaimed. "YES! We finally made it!" as soon as he arrived inside of the airport. Other passengers briskly passed and commented that they just wanted to get home and forget about the entire experience. After finally getting a flight to come

The first passenger off the Dynamic Airways flight from JFK, New York greeted by staff of the GTA and presented with a nicely-boxed slice of Guyanese black cake the Christmas season in Guyana. He said too. "It's the time of the year when a lot of Guyanese in the diaspora choose to come back home to celebrate Christmas." This activity of sharing out local Guyanese. Christmas cuisine is something the GTA has been doing

for a number of years, according to the Director. Haralsingh also said that this activity is not carried out at many other places in the world and underscored. "It makes Guyana stand out." The GTA director extended his warmest sea-

son's greetings to all and encouraged persons to return home for Christmas. He also encouraged foreigners to continue visiting Guyana, especially during the Christmas Season. "After all there is nowhere to celebrate Christmas than at home," he said.

Some of the disgruntled Dynamic Airways passengers making their way through the Arrival area at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. Many of the passengers were stranded for several days at the JFK Airport even the 'black-cake' could brighten the moods of the people who had been stranded in New York due to the cancellation of the Dynamic Airways flights. Speaking to members of the media, some passengers highlighted grimly that they were stranded at the JFK in New York for a number of days. Some recounted that their flight to Guyana was supposed to leave JFK on Friday, while others explained that their flights were on Saturday and Sunday. The passengers also claimed that in addition to being stranded at the airport with no clear solution to their situation, they were not treated well. One woman attested that her flight was supposed to leave JFK on Saturday morning but instead she was left stranded at the airport. While at the airport awaiting her next flight

to Guyana, the passengers expressed joy that the ride was "smooth" and "comfortable". However, they highlighted that this entire experience was stressful, especially to the children and elderly. Amidst all of this, the GTA sought to usher in the Christmas season and welcome visitors to Guyana by treating incoming passengers with samples of a Guyanese 'Black-Cake' upon their arrival at the CJIA. Director of the GTA. Indranaught Haralsingh highlighted. "The Guyana Tourism Authority is here at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport to spread some Christmas cheer and joy to arriving passengers." He noted that the GTA decided to carry out this exercise to give incoming passengers both from Guyana and elsewhere a taste of

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Senate Foreign Relations Committee plans hearing to

grill Trump's Secretary of State-pick Rex Tillerson WASHINGTON, U.S. — A major battle is on the horizon next month, on January 11, when the Senate Foreign Relations Committee plans to hold a two-part hearing to put Trump's secretary of state pick Rex Tillerson through the ringer over his tenure as ExxonMobil CEO. His will be quizzed about his views on human rights and climate change in light of his work with the giant oil company. He will also be grilled over his links to Russia and his questionable ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which lawmakers believe could lead to a potential conflict of interest. Tillerson is expected to go through "very thorough, tough vetting," according to sources. "This proposed nominee for secretary of state will likely be asked more questions than normal. Secretary Kerry was somebody that we knew, Secretary Clinton was somebody that we knew," Foreign Relations Chair Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) said. "Since [Tillerson] will be up under the hood advising the president on foreign policy, a president who hasn't been involved in foreign policy in his business life, we certainly want to understand fully the kind of advice he would be giving the president as secretary of state," he added. There is also likely to be a confrontation on the issue of tax returns, with the Democrats slamming the Republicans for refusing to demand the top diplomat-designate's tax returns. Nominees for secretary of state arc not required by committee rules to provide tax returns. "Unless there was a case where there's some irregularity that's known, the committee just does not ask for tax returns," Corker said in an interview. Corker stressed that Tillerson is "not going to be the proxy [for Trump] because we're not going to ask for tax returns." According to a Senate Democratic aide and a Trump transition team spokesman, Tillerson said he was ready to provide only "tax return information" for his wife and himself for the previous three years, and not the returns themselves. Democrats argue that Tiller-

son is a special case and therefore must be subject to further scrutiny. They also acknowledge they're pushing for the tax returns of Tillerson and other Cabinet nominees to put the spotlight on Trump's continued refusal so far to release his own records. Meanwhile, Sen. Tom Cotton, an Arkansas Republican, said he will support the Exxon CEO's nomination. "I look forward to supporting his nomination," Cotton said after his meeting with Tillerson. "I expect him to bring the same hard-nosed focus on the interests of the United States that he brought to the interests of ExxonMobil shareholders as CEO there." Jerry Falwell Jr., the president of Liberty University, also expressed his support for Tillerson even after it was revealed that the businessman was instrumental in opening up the Boy Scouts to homosexual scouts and leaders. Meanwhile, Tillerson's nomina-

I / / r

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The Zena Henry Celumn With just two days to go before Christmas, it's only expected that everyone is putting the finishing touches on what they are preparing to have a marvelous season. The crazy shopping started weeks ago, the ^liming", well that has gotten more intense (this is Guyana) and the bumper to bumper traffic; let's just say that it would be better to park your vehicle away from the city centre and do your shopping on foot. Families, young and old couples, not even have a home to go to. There singles, friends and people from all are those who may have lost their home, walks of life are out shopping, having due to a fire or left the family because a grand time with huge smiles on their of a disagreement. In that case it should faces. They are busy talking about what never be too hard to say, I am sorry to gifts they want for the season, what someone that you may have hurt. It they are buying for their loved ones and shouldn't be too hard also to lend a how much they will eat, party and helping hand or to be nice to someone enjoy the festivities. that is less fortunate than you are. Whenever the Christmas holiday While this is the feeling that the comes around it's always a different, season brings, this should be an all fulfilling kind of feeling. As if persons year-round affair; to help those who become nicer, they become kinder and seem in need, whether it is physically are sometimes willing to go out of their or emotionally. At this time of year, esway to help you. For some, Christmas pecially for Christians, this is the time will never be the same, especially if you of "giving and sharing", the time for may have lost a loved one. There are no love and togetherness. words that can be said to bring comfort, And what better to do the job of or to soothe the pain one feels after that bringing people together than food, loss. Christmas may even be a reminder drinks and music for Christmas. For of that pain, when all the memories of many, Christmas dinner might be the love and good times come flooding in. highlight of the entire day; when the There are others who might not family gathers around the table to have have enough to eat, a loving family to a grand feast as part of their celebration. enjoy the season with, since they might Not many people leave their homes on

Christmas Day and who would when there is so much going on right there in the house? The overseas family arrived days ago and the house is filled with people. It is loud; a lot of talking and laughing. Christmas music is on, the young children are playing with their Christmas gifts, while the adults indulge themselves in conversation and drinks; it's a party in every home. Guyana itself makes Christmas exciting because a Guyanese Christmas is very unique when you have foods like pepperpot, garlic pork, pickle

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onions and the usual Guyana kitchen treasures. The black cake, sponge and fruit cake is a must and the drinks are always numerous. Guyana Sprouts offers a recipe from one of its simple Christmas cocktails. The season is a great time to try new things, so try a basic fruit fusion cocktail. Ingredients: Passion fruit flavor Absolute vodka, Banks champagne shandy, pineapple, cherry syrup orange liqueur, orange juice, crushed ice. Pour over diced very sweet pineapples 1.5 oz. of passion fruit flavoured absolute in the blender. Add half a bottle champagne shandy, 2 ounces of the pineapple and orange juice, a desired portion of the orange liqueur and cherry syrup. Blend all the ingredients until they begin to fizz. Pour the mixture over a half glass of crushed ice. Add a slice of pineapple on the rim of the glass for decorations and enjoy. The holidays are always wonderful with friends and family. Old grievances are sometimes put aside, while new ones might start. The true spirit of Christmas however, is being able to release all the negative relations and remember why we must live together in love. It is always better to love than to hate. So make this Christmas one where you not only enjoy it, but you say sorry to the one or ones that you have might have hurt. Make up for distance or separation. Enjoy the season with friends and family and cherish the fact that you can spend time with them and tell them that you love them. Guyana Sprouts is wishing all Guyanese at home and abroad a very Merry Christmas. Be safe and be good to yourself and others.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

(Tljrpnlclc ^

F tlilor In ( liict Hew Is Mi hr lipwisi iikllc wii twisiort senlcss Nigel Williams Editor Godfrey Wray Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com Kiiigcl I0(n hotmail.com gnnleditorial^ gmail.cnm For All Publishing and Advertising in New York consult our New York Representative: Dennis A. Nelson dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.coni Teh 917-379-6590

C&itorial

Way

Forward

"WAY FORWARD" is the title of the proposals made by Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations, for resolution of the controversy that was raised by Venezuela over its contention that the law settling the border between the Bolivarian Republic and Guyana is not final and binding. The matter was engaging the attention of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon who. on December 16. informed both Guyana and Venezuela that he has reached a decision on the way forward. This "way" will go through two phases: firstly, for the next twelve months, the UN's Good Offices process would be continued in search of a resolution; and secondly, if no significant progress resulted. the matter will be referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as the next means of settlement, unless Guyana and Venezuela decide otherwise. The proposals of the Secretary-General were transmitted on Tuesday to the National Assembly by Vice-President Carl Greenidge. Minister of Foreign Affairs, and these proposals found favour with both Government and Opposition. It should be noted that, in spite of previous ambiguous statements made by the de facto leader of the People's Progressive Party. Bharrat Jagdeo. about a resolution to the controversy, the PPP's Congress last weekend came out solidly against Venezuela in defence of Guyana's territorial integrity According to the Foreign Minister, although Guyana had lost faith in the "Good Offices" process because of non-cooperation by Venezuela. Guyana is willing to give it "one last try". The fresh phase of this process will be facilitated by a nominee of the Secretary-General. The controversy arose over what has been considered as settled borders between Guyana and Venezuela when Caracas contended that the 1899 Arbitral Award is null and void. Guyana has argued consistently that Venezuela has raised a contention in law. and that the forum for its resolution is the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Venezuela, for its part, had chosen to dodge any juridical road map. Mr. Greenidge has stated that the proposals, which in-

Dear Editor: Guyana's public transport services/system is a matter of passionate concern for local people and visitors. Our economic prosperity depends increasingly on the efficient movement of people and goods over varying distances throughout the country. The traveling public spends quite a lot of their limited earnings on transportation and argues rightfully about its cost, safety and effects on our social and environmental conditions. Changes in public transportation are rapid, expensive and becoming more demanding and the government must give it serious attention. In spite of past and present administrations spending billions of dollars, mainly on roads and bridges, the end result which is providing cheap and efficient public trans-

Markets Dear Editor, Recently an announcement was made by the Georgetown City Council that a decision had been made to stop the sale of meat on the city streets, due to the health risks and violations of the public health laws that prohibit the open sale of meat, a practice which is particularly prevalent in the vicinity of Bourda and La Penitence Markets. And in theory and on the surface this sounds quite logical. However in the Georgetown situation it is not! In the Markets where the Council would like meat to be exclusively sold, conditions are atrocious. In Bourda the drains in this market always overflow when it rains and the roof also leaks. The gutters smell like a septic tank and it is just not healthy. This market has got a lot of giant rats. These harbingers

port services for the nation has not materialized. Thus at this point in time, the contribution of transport towards social and economic development of Guyana is negligible. Indeed the country needs highways, bridges and modern airports. But most importantly, we need proper public transport services to move people and goods safely, comfortably, speedily and economically to their respective destinations. Since road transport is the principal means of public transport in the country, it is essential that the government develop a suitable public transport policy as part of a national development plan. In this regard, a public transit authority must be created to oversee the integration, implementation, regulation and running of the nation's public transport services/system, including the pliable but

must

Lennox O. Britton

kept

of disease scuttle in swarms around our markets particularly under cover of darkness, and that is why people prefer to shop in the supermarkets or outside the markets, a much healthier option. The La Penitence Market is no better. with hardly any ranning water inside the market, forcing vendors to pay junkies to fetch in water by the bucket to sanitize the place. Before making such a rash decision, the Council should have the markets properly cleaned, all the rodents flushed out. proper security put in place for patrons shopping in the markets and install proper lighting. But what about the persons who sell cooked food on the pavements both by day and by night? And those who cook on spots like the King Fish caravan located at the comers of King and Regent Streets? Should they not all be removed

clude the judicial option, must be received with national satisfaction and as a milestone at a time when Guyana celebrates its 50th year as an independent and sovereign nation. Should the proposals follow the path outlined by the Secretary-General. Guyana could be freed from the impediments placed against its efforts, over many years, to push national development without acts of aggression or economic blockade. After all. the strained relations between Guyana and Venezuela. due to the spurious claim to Guyana's territory, have affected both of our peoples, who are brothers and sisters and ought to promote their lives of peace and plenty as good

sometimes dangerous minibus /van services. Meanwhile, the government should encourage local and overseas investors to own and operate inter-regional bus services on routes such as Georgetown to Corentyne, Georgetown to Parika and Georgetown to Linden. Later on feeder services can be added to these routes. The "secondary" means of public transport â€” mini-vans et al, by default, is now the principal means of public transport in the country. On one hand the services contribute to the economic growth of the country, while on the other it is responsible for the rising death toll on our roads. These services must be reviewed immediately with strict regulatory and monitoring systems as the main focus.

clean

as well? The myth that foods are more wholesome if they are sold in covered and enclosed places in Guyana can be easily debunked with the example of the butchery near to the Bourda Market that had to be closed for a while by the National Police when it was discovered that meat that was being sold in this enclosed building was not examined or certified by the City's Public Health Department, was acquired by dubious means, was being delivered to the butchery in the middle of the night under the cover of darkness and the fact that most of it was rotting. This very City Council that is seeking to deprive these small meat retailers of an honest livelihood did nothing about this meat shop that is well known for unhygienic and insanitary practices for years. How unfair!

neighbours working together, rather than being pulled apart by a border controversy. All Guyana know that, since taking office in May, 2015, both President David Granger and Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge have spearheaded a formidable international campaign to protect the nation's borders, and our people owe them an expression of gratitude for their efforts. It goes without saying that Mr. Ban has decorated his legacy as Secretary-General of the United Nations with a key diplomatic breakthrough in the search for a definitive resolution of the controversy.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Things

That

Bother

My last week's article described the origin of Christmas and why we should or should not cele.'brate the festival. This week I will discuss some more facts that were not mentioned in that article. How was Christmas observed during the Middle Ages? What did the Puritans think about it and What is the real meaning of Christmas? THE MIDDLE AGES This is the period in European history between antiquity and the Renaissance, from 476 ACE to 1453. During the low Middle Ages (476-1100), Easter and the Annunciation were more important than Christmas. Actually, many did not even observe the day. By 1100, Christmas became the most important festival in the Christian world. It was not a one day celebration, but lasted 12 days — December 25 to January 6. A month of fasting, prayer and meditation during Advent preceded it. Some integral parts of the Christmas story originated in the Middle Ages. The first ever nativity scene was created by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1223. It was created in a cave near Greccio, Italy, and involved people, animas and a baby in a crib. Although living nativity scenes still exist, the static versions are more popular. Some of the most famous Nativity scenes are found at the Vatican, the White House and in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. THE PURITANS TRIED TO OUTLAW CHRISTMAS Christmas came under attack in the late 16th and 17th centuries in Britain. The Presbyterian Parliament in Scotland banned it in 1563. In England, an Act of Parliament backed by Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas from 1647 to 1660. It was different in what is now the United states of America. Its first settlers were fanatical Puritans who believed in the literal meaning of the Bible. Since the Bible did not mention Christmas, they refused to ob-

serve it throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. They called it " Foolstide

CHRISTMAS GIFTS There is no record of when gift-giving entered Christmas. Since the Roman festival of Saturnalia involved gift-giving, and it was incorporated into Christian tradition as Christmas, it can be assumed that was the first celebration of Christmas involved gift-giving. The more significant question is what is the significance of the gift-giving. The Bible states that when Jesus was born, three wise men presented him with Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. Most theologians suggest that Christmas gift-giving reminds us of the Wiseman's gifts. However, some suggest that is a mere continuation of a practice during Saturnalia.

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WAS THERE EVER A JESUS? Now, I want to introduce two very controversial questions into the mix. First, was Jesus of Nazareth ever born? That is, apart from the biblical record (the foundation of the Believer's faith) is there any historical evidence that the Jesus of Christianity ever lived? This question has nothing to do with what the priest says in his homily on Sunday or with what I believe, which, incidentally, is in the historicity of Jesus. It concerns evidence. Put another way, it is a battle between faith and reason. Faith accepts the biblical record as sufficient evidence. Reason seeks verification from the historical record. Those who assert the non-existence of Jesus, advance as one of their strongest arguments, the absence of reference to him dur-

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016 A view from New York My

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Christmas

Less

Than

Gifts For

a Penny

Let me put this as bluntly as I can: I'm not a great believer in Christmas — period. Too consumcristic, too hypocritical, and too given to unnecessary excesses, for my taste, thank you. And too, the true essence of Christmas has arguably been hopelessly lost. I mean the lesson of the most celebrated homeless couple, and a baby des-

.fx

tined for greatness, born amidst cow manure, stale sheep urine, and stinking donkey sweat. There were no Jingle Bells or cigars being passed around to celebrate the newborn.

■*

All of this is replaced by greed, greed and more

greed, from a capitalist class, hell bent on extracting the last doUar from gullible consumers and binge shoppers. I also dislike the gluttons who focus of food, food and still more food. And also, I find it monumentally stupid to keep peddling the unrealistic and patently ignorant story about Santa Claus; the poster child for needed weight loss, who, despite his rotund and bovine size, still shimmies down a narrow, sooty chimney to deliver Christmas gifts. The glutton that he is, he still finds time to wolf down copious amounts of milk and cookies. So with that in mind I decided to offer my eight Christmas gifts to you for less than a penny. And I don't have to believe in, celebrate or love Christmas to offer them. So here they are: 1. THE GIFT OF LOVE . That which is the opposite of hate. But not the carnal jump-in-the-sack kind of love, but a genuine love for ALL people, no matter their station in life. Love often involves caring for or identifying with a person or persons. A good place to start can be a love for children, the poor, and the powerless — the least among us. At Christmas time, if only of a brief moment — we can give this gift freely and inexpensively. It costs less than a penny. So if you really want to indulge in the celebration of Christmas, then give the GIFT OF LOVE. 2. Till GIFT OF CHARITY. The practice of being benevolent, giving and sharing. The religious concept of unlimited love and kindness. Reach out to the less fortunate during this season. Genuinely make an effort to be charitable to those who have little or nothing. A warm, gently used coat to keep out the cold from a poor, homeless individual, for example. Food is always welcomed but give from your heart and not for a "photo op." Reach out to your neigh-

bor to see how he or she is doing. 3. THE GIFT OF A TOLERANCE. The practice of deliberately allowing or permitting a thing of which one disapproves. Nowadays intolerance has reached fever pitch. Nowhere is this more evident than in our national political discourse. Hatred for those with different sexual preferences and orientation; religious bigotry, individual discrimination are all part of the disease of intolerance. Intolerance sparks violence and brutality fueled and driven by hatred of "the other." THIS CHRISTMAS LET US GIVE THE GIFT OF TOLERANCE — it costs less than a penny. 4. THE GIFT OF A SMILE Screw faces, scowling faces, and faces lined with worry, anxiety and confusion. Among humans smiling is an expression denoting pleasure, sociability, happiness, or amusement. But these days, we go about our daily lives and forget to smile. We carry the world on our shoulders. Health science says that it does a body good and has great effects on mood, outlook and behavior. So this Christmas do something that does not cost even one penny — SMILE. 5. THE GIFT OF FRIENDSHIP. Not "friends with benefits;" not "dry weather friends," but genuine friendship. Friendship is a relationship of mutual affection between two or more people. Friendship is a stronger form of interpersonal bond than an association. THIS CHRISTMAS GIVE THE GIFT OF FRIENDSHIP AND MEAN IT. Besides, it will cost you less than a penny. 6. THE GIFT OF IJNDER-

f(F

b&ri

i&t

STANDEVG. Like tolerance, modem day humans often fall short when it comes to understanding, especially when we deal with others not of our race, class, social grouping or religious persuasion. An understanding is the limit of a conceptualization. Understanding implies abilities and dispositions with respect to an object of knowledge, sufficient to support intelligent behavior. It's very easy to not understand others, label others and pass judgment on entire groups and races. Just listen to our political discourse of "we against them" or "them against us." A lack of understanding perpetuates ignorance, grooms and grows suspicion, making us insensitive to others. FOR CHRISTMAS, LEARN TO UNDERSTAND OTHERS — AFTER ALL THEY RE HUMAN TOO! 7. THE GIFT OF COMPASSION. Compassion is the response to the suffering of others that motivates a desire to help. Compassion motivates people to go out of their way to help the physical, spiritual, or emotional hurts or pains of another. Have you practiced a little compassion lately? If you're like most people

you may have come up short on this score. SO THIS CHRISTMAS TRY A LITTLE COMPASSION. It's not going to cost you anything and the benefits will only make you a better person. 8. THE GIFT OF A HAPPY DISPOSITION. Too many of us are grouches personified. We go around making others unhappy. We nag, complain, gripe, whine and criticize for no reason. Heck, this is bound to take the joy out of Christmas. Just think of poor ole Mary giving birth to the Baby Jesus in a manger surrounded by the smell of cattle and sheep waste, "stinking feces" and you think you have it hard? SO THIS CHRISTMAS DO MAKE AN EFFORT TO DEVELOP A HAPPY DISPOSITION. I know it will be hard, but try. What do you have to lose? And on the plus side, you're going to gain a whole lot of friends in the process who just love to be around happy people! SO THERE YOU HAVE IT MY CHRISTMAS GIFTS TO YOU FOR LESS THAN A PENNY. MAY YOU HAVE A PROSPEROUS 2017.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM

11RUN announces

first-ever Royal

Caribbean Internationa! New Delhi [India], Dec 19 (ANI): I IRIJIN, the exclusive India Representative for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., invites adventure seekers from all over the country to indulge in Salsa music, dominoes, Mojitos and historic Havana neighborhoods like never before, as RCI announces its first-ever sailings to Cuba. The newly revitalized Empress of The ship will then reposition to Tampa ofthe Seas will make history for the cruise fering two itineraries with calls to Havana line with its first visit to Cuba. The ship on April 30 (seven-night sailing) and May will homeport in Tampa for the 2017 20 (five-night sailing). Indian cruise ensummer season RCI's first-ever summer thusiasts can now book their vacation program from the destination offering a aboard the Empress of the Seas and celeseries of four- and five-night sailings, in- brate the New Year in style. cluding port calls to destinations in Cuba. TIRUN Chief Executive, Ratna The largest ship to sail to Cuba from the Chadha expressed her enthusiasm about United States, Empress will provide In- the announcement, commenting, "TIRUN dian vacationers with the opportunity to is committed to providing Indian cusdiscover the timeless sights, sounds and tomers with the most memorable vacation culture of this island nation. experiences every season. With the latest The ship will make its first visit to Cuba during a five-night sailing itinerary, departing from Miami on April 19,2017.

RCI sailings to Cuba, cruise enthusiasts can indulge in a rejuvenating holiday aboard the spectacular Empress of the

IVIINERVA TRAVEL Accesible Travel Specialist CLIA/IATA 0SSN/SATH APTA/PATA TPOC/IGLTA M/W/DBE CERTIFIED ^

Elaine Henry, cta, mcc

Seas and discover Cuba's vibrant culture through RCI's unparalleled immersion itinerary. There cannot be a more exciting way to ring in the New Year."

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The revitalized Empress will bring the shipboard Cuban flair together with signature amenities, such as a thrilling rock-climbing wall for adrenaline seekers; new pools and whirlpools, including an adults-only Solarium; a Vitality Spa with an extensive treatment menu; and a complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program. Empress also will offer a variety of dining options with the casual atmosphere of the Windjammer Cafe, familyfriendly Ben and Jerry's Scoop Shop, and fine dining at Royal Caribbean's signature steakhouse Chops. The summer program on Empress of the Seas provides travelers with more opportunities to sample the unique cruise experience from Tampa. Two other Royal Caribbean ships, Rhapsody of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas, will offer Caribbean itineraries from the homeport during the winter season. (ANI)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Witnesses

Describe

Mexican

'Nightmare'

Christmas

Deadly

Blast

In little over a decade, the country's most celebrated fireworks market in Tultepec has blown up three times, with the latest massive blast raising serious questions about why the festive public was again exposed to such deadly risks. •BIGGEST, WORST' 'This was the biggest and the worst,' Monroy, 41, decked out in a cowboy hat and boots, said after his last escape. 'It was really loud, like a bomb. Lots of people were running and looking for help, and those we could get out, we got out.' 'There were lots of colors, I can't say it was beautiful because of the sadness and loss,' said Monroy, who has spent more than a decade making rockets and fireworks at the market. 'There are no winners here. There's nothing here.' As the wind kicked up around lunchtime, tiny funnels of wind whipped through the wasteland, lifting trash, dust and burned fragments into a series of dancing columns. Alan Jesus Chavez, a local medical student who rushed to the scene as the blasts went off and the market stalls blazed, worked to pull people out of the burning ruins. While handing out milk and water, a woman came to his side to ask him to free her baby, who was trapped under rubble. 'But when we got everything off and found the baby, it was al-

ready dead,' said Chavez, who felt the pulse of five of the people who lost their lives. 'When I got out of here and got home, I cried because of all the dead people I had seen.' MULTIPLE BLASTS The government has yet to say what sparked the tragedy, noting only that there were six separate blasts. Federal investigators pored through the wreckage for clues Wednesday. Local resident Ivan Perez, 23, whose girlfriend works at the market, said there was a rumor that the explosions began when a woman accidentally dropped a 'brujita,' a kind of banger. Such was the economic importance of the bazaar to locals, he said, that bribes were sometimes paid to sell fireworks not permitted by official regulations, Perez said. But after the third tragedy in just over a decade, the market's prospects looked grim, he added. 'I don't think it will get back on its feet,' he said. In 2005, fireworks maker Monroy was just leaving when the explosions broke out; nearly a year

later, he was standing on a bridge overlooking the market when the sky lit up again. On Tuesday, Monroy had gone outside the surrounding fence to fix his bike when the sudden, rapid blasts began propelling huge clumps of concrete through the air. Fear gripped him because his family

were still inside, along with hundreds of others. They escaped with only a fright. Others were not so lucky. T saw a lot of charred bodies and dead. It's a nightmare that in time you forget,' Monroy said. 'The children were crying, shouting, asking for help.' —VOA

■

nter

ca(e car 00*

Cuba launches Mai scheme to m allow home internet access PanARM I . \ IAN.Net—The Cuban government has announced a twomonth trial scheme to allow internet access in private homes, BBC News reports. State-run telecommunications company Etecsa will install internet in some 2,000 homes in the capital's colonial district, Old Havana. The company has also reduced by 25% the fee charged to connect to the web, which most Cubans can only access from public wi-fi hotspots. Cuba has one of the lowest online connectivity rates in the world. Many Cubans hope the country's communist government will eventually expand the scheme, says the BBC's Will Grant in Havana.

Details are scarce, but the authorities say the experiment will be extended if it is approved after the two-month trial period. Last week, Etecsa signed an agreement with Google to provide faster access to content including Gmail and YouTube. Google will install local servers that will speed up connection to its services. Much of the island's internet infrastructure is obsolete. Google and Etecsa reached agreement in the final weeks of Barack Obama's presidency, but it is not clear whether his successor, Donald Trump, will change US policies towards Cuba.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Dr. Basil Springer's Column

"Other seed fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirty and sixty and a hundredfold." — Mark 4:8 Thirty years ago, it was apparent that entrepreneurial activity had been enhanced, both in Silicon Val-

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

INTRAPRENEURSHIP

ley and in Boston, by the growth of the venture capital market. I set out on a tour of Boston in search of venture capital knowledge which I thought could con-

Entrepreneur a person who starts his or her own business with a new idea or concept

Intrapreneur an employee who promotes innovation within the limits of the organization

tribute to the growth of economies in small states and emerging nations in the Caribbean. Specifically, my question at that time was, as it is now, how do we source profitable private sector investment to finance entrepreneurs, i.e. persons who start their own business with a new idea, concept or innovation? I returned to Barbados "brighteyed and bushy-tailed" all ready to make something happen. I mounted a workshop to present my findings of the tour and, even though many people attended, there was little private sector interest in establishing a local venture capital fund. There were two interesting responses to my presentation. The one from Sir Courtney Blackman, the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados at the time, and the other from

the late Sir Douglas Lynch who was the then Chairman of Barbados Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd. (BS&T now part of the Massy Group). The Governor proposed that the reserve requirement of commercial banks, lodged at the Central Bank, could be reduced and the difference used to capitalize a venture capital fund to stimulate Entrepreneurship. Indeed, the concept of Shepherding (value chain coordination, mind-set change, business skill set change and cross cultural communication change) as a risk mitigation measure, which is gaining traction today, had not yet been formally introduced. The Governor's concept never saw the light of day. The other interesting response

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from BS&T actually resulted in the introduction of Intrapreneur ship, i.e. an employee who promotes innovation within the limits of his or her organization. The BS&T directors provided a sum of money to encourage internal entrepreneurs to come up with new ideas for the benefit of their company. It was not until 2009, when the then Prime Minister the late David Thompson successfully launched the Barbados Entrepreneurs' Quick Response Venture Capital Fund at George Washington House in the historic surroundings of the Garrison, that some progress was made. Unfortunately, the Honourable Prime Minister fell ill within months of the launch and soon after passed away. The private sector sourced venture capital fund concept, with government incentives, died with him. Just over a week ago, while chatting informally with a captain of industry in Trinidad at a social function, I piqued his interest by contrasting Intrapreneurship, which his group of companies also practised, with Entrepreneurship. My view is that whereas Intrapreneurship certainly grows the economy by making big businesses bigger, it frustrates the reduction of the wealth divide by restricting business ownership in the hands of a few, whereas Entrepreneurship gives the in-

dividual with a new idea the opportunity of becoming a big business in his or her own right and hence grows the economy as well as reduces the wealth divide. My hypothesis is that Intrapreneurship and Entrepreneurship together give a small country a better chance of accessing the global market, leading to the sustainability of economic growth. In the Intrapreneuship model, the innovator within the organization will get a salary and may participate in an employee stock ownership plan. He or she may grow within a relatively risk free business environment. Whereas in the Entrepreneurship model, with "Shepherding as Collateral", the innovator will get a salary and will usually have significant ownership in his or her company thus ultimately mitigating the wealth divide. Let us now grow the seeds of Intrapreneurship and Entrepreneurship so they may be nurtured by the Light of God and yield a bountiful harvest of economic growth. (Dr. Basil Springer GCM is Change-Engine Consultant, Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust Inc. - CBET. His email address is basilgf57@gmail.com and his columns may be found at www.cbetmodel.org and www.nothingbeats business.com.)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

v\ A

^ ^bWi

Ease The Tension—Enjoy A Laugh 2. Put heel and trotters in pan.

PEPPERPOT

Cover with water and bring to

Ingredients:

boil. Skim.

^ lbs. stewing steak or brisket

3. When half-tender, add other

/2 lb. pickled meat 2 pig trotters or 1 cow heel

meats, and hot water to cover.

2 lbs. ox tail

Cook for about one hour.

1 cup cassareep

4. Add other ingredients and

2 red peppers

simmer until meat is tender.

1 one inch piece dried orange

Adjust flavour with salt and

or lemon peel

sugar.

1 one inch piece stick 5. Serve hot.

cinnamon 3 heads clove

N.B. This dish develops more

2 ozs. sugar

flavour when left over a pe-

salt to taste

riod of days. It must be reheated to boiling point each day. This is a typical Amerindian dish.

Method: 1. Wipe and clean meat thoroughly.

What a Change in

Miracles Are Sometimes Repeated At Christmas

Employment Can Do Amother took her 12-year-old passenger in a taxi tapped daughter to the doctor and the driver on the shoulder asked him to give her an examination to determine the Ao ask him something. cause of her daughter's swollen The driver screamed, lost control of abdomen. It only took the doctor the cab, nearly hit a bus, drove up over about two seconds to say, "Your the curb, and stopped just inches from a large plate glass window. daughter is pregnant." The mother turned red with fury as For a few moments everything was she argued with the doctor that her daughter silent in the cab, then the driver said, was a good girl and would never compro"Please, don't ever do that again. You mise her reputation by having sex at her age. scared the daylights out of me." The pasThe doctor faced the window and silently watched the horizon. The mother senger, who was also frightened, apolobecame more enraged and screamed,"Quit gized and said he didn't realize that a tap looking out the window! Aren't you paying on the shoulder could frighten him so attention to me?" "Yes, of course I am pay- much, to which the driver replied: "I'm ing attention ma'am. It's just that the last sorry, it's really not your fault at all. time this happened, a star appeared in the Today is my first day driving a cab. I have East, and three wise men came. And I was been driving a hearse for the last 25 hoping that they would show up again. years!"

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

IT'S

FACT

by JAMES SYDNEY

PEPPERPOT—The

Dish

That L

Might

Not

Have

Been

You can be sure that wherever in the world Guyanese are this Christmas, most of them will be enjoying Pepperpot, as they have done for years. The taste and smell of Pepperpot are part of the Guyanese Christmas memory and experience. This is not the pepperpot of other areas in the Caribbean — made with eallaloo and other greens, beef or pork, and spices. Guyana's pepperpot is a dish of meat of many kinds, of spices, and of cassareep, boiled well for a long time, then eaten with rice or bread, or alone. But we might not have had pepperpot to enjoy if Amerindians had abandoned the use of bitter cassava (yucca) when they realized that it was poisonous. They found

R&D

ways to make the poison harmless. One of them resulted in cassareep, the indispensable ingredient in pepperpot. Bitter cassava is deadly poisonous if eaten raw. If it enters the stomach, the hydrogen cyanide in it starts a series of actions that ultimately cause asphyxiation. Moderate cyanide poisoning can lead to vomiting, convulsions, deep breathing, shortness of breath, and anxiety. More serious cases result in loss of consciousness, heart

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arrest and death. Amerindians used this poison to tip their arrows and blow darts. Today, no one need fear cassava poisoning. It is well-known that boiling cassava drives off the cyanide A* as a gas. In addition, Amerindians grating cassava using the Matapee bitter cassava is not for the making of Cassava Bread and Cassareep. normally sold in stores — only the safe sweet cas- changing, mostly improving, but sava; and generally people know that only subtly, as new meat is added. Guyana seems to have had a it is best to treat all cassava as if poilong relationship with cyanide. It is sonous, and always cook it. Amerindians learned several in cassava, but we know how to ways of removing the poison from deal with that. It spilled at Omai bitter cassava. Boiling and squeez- during gold mining operations in Guyana and caused great damage. ing are two of them. In making cassareep, that im- But even before then it was used in portant ingredient in Guyanese the Kool-Aid drunk by hundreds of pepperpot, Amerindians first grate people when the followers of Jim the cassava, squeeze out the liquid, Jones committed suicide at Jontraditionally with an ingenious estown, Guyana, in November plaited basket sieve in the shape of 1978. This was not the first time a cylinder called a matapee, then that people had committed suicide boil it. Fully boiled cassareep is by cyanide. Before them, Arawak Indians had done the same by bitoften thick and very dark brown. One of its most remarkable ing into uncooked bitter cassava to properties is its highly antiseptic avoid torture by the Conquistadors. power, preserving meat that has been boiled in it for long periods. The Arawak hunter of old would bring home fresh meat and add it to a pot that had been in use for many months. In practice, Guyanese now heat a pepperpot once a day, which is more than is necessary. The Georgetown YMCA of Guyana, while it was British Guiana, maintained a pepperpot for over 25 years. Cassareep also gives pepperpot its unmistakable flavor, the flavor

Today Guyanese enjoy the benefits of Cassava as they savor their Pepperpot at Christmastime or any time. Right now pepperpots are simmering in many places, all over the world with beef, pork, oxtail, trotters, iguana, watrash, mutton, spice, cloves, hot peppers, and other ingredients, in preparation for eating with rice, bread, especially home-made bread, or alone. For many, Christmas would not be Christmas without it.

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from the Management and Staff ofthe New York Edition of the Guyana Cftronicfe

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

In the spirit of the season, the Consul General Zl 3

and staff of the Guyana Consulate of the Co-opera-

tive Republic of Guyana, New York, held a reception on December

21,

2016.

those attending

Brigadier

Among

were Mr.

Michael Ten-pow, Ambassador

■■ 'zmM

Guyana

the

UN;

Michael Atherly,

Inspector Steven Griffith and officers Mohamed Amen and Nathalie

Michel

the

NYPD Community Affairs. Ms. Beverley McDonald introduced the Consul General Hon. Barbara Atherly, who said that she

m PARTY TIME — Guyana Consul General Ms. Barbara Atherly seems to be hawing a good time as she enjoys the festive music which was supplied by popular Guyanese DJ Mark. photo cretin; Dennis nelson could not limit her remarks to wish- She thanked her staff and the public months of tenure. She said that the ing the gathering "Happy holidays." for their support during her four UN is debating the issue of the pmn Venezuela-Guyana border, which, she hoped, would be resolved in the coming year. She also pledged to continue 'Town Hall' meetings to N communicate with the Guyanese V* community in New York and New * Jersey. f

'■

Bonita Montaque and Errol Lewis, CEO and President of Bonel Enterprises, which does custodial work for the Consulate, gave Christmas gifts to the Consulate staff.

L-

■A^v

There were lots to eat and drink. Everyone had a wonderful time and danced to the sweet sounds of DJ MarkC. (by Handel Andrews) s

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Wjeettng

Ole

(Jl

Time

friends

Story

De odda day ah was waakin down Church Avenue by weh dem banna use to drink outside de liquor store jus pass Nostrand goin to Flatbush side. A see a banna ah use to know when we use to go to primary school at Friday School in Alberttown, Guyana. "Wuh happenin Jo?' I say to "Stolly," I answered and he tell him. "O s he tell me. "I me "happy Christmas. I say de same ain see yuh fuh a while man. Wuh ting and he went in de subway. happin? yuh went back to GT?" Ah was itching fuh a drink; but "No, banna. I deh right hey. want a hole or a bar weh GT dat ah Yuh know since de bussy stop de know deh. I tink but Ram and drinking by de likha store, yuh doan Denize an ah wus near dem. But I see nobady nomo. Ah use to see want a crowd a little mo classy. Ah sum ah dem banna by Hecky. But know Bennie on Liberty in Florida fuh vacation. So it ain maek sense he go and dead." "Man, wuh yuh talkin bout. going deh until he come back. Den Look how lang Hecy dead. "Yes. But roun dis time I cant D — forget Mista Ifil or Lafrance, £ whicheva one yuh like fuh cal he. Every Chrismas Eve and ol' year's 1 day we use to lime by he. "I like Hecky, but he wus a cochore. Yuh remember Panama, dat n use to bring he tings? Hecky use to get dem fuh noting; but charge a whole we a whole lot. "Panama use to bring mostly AI sal fish." "Nat salfish, Codfish." "Wuh is de difference?" "Codfish is from de cod. Any fish cud be salfish. One aftanoon, me an Eddie Maple was taking a drink by Hecky. He was cooking codfish and potatoe stew. We spot bout six bags ah codfish. Hecky went upstairs for something. Right away I mancho three bags and hide dem outside." "By de way, wen las yuh see Eddie Maple? He still ridin' de ponies?" "I see he las week on 35th street in Manhattan at a bar. You doan play nomo." "No man, it ain mek no sense now. Only favrites coming. Den, ah get turn off when de OTB close down." It was 3 o'clock an I begin to feel fuh a drink. I tell him, "Banna we deh hey all dis time and yuh in even offer me a drink an we dey near by Denize." "Yuh rite. But all I gat pun me now is wartex. If ah see yuh nex week I goun buy yuh wuh yuh dis drink. Wuh it name again?"

Christmas

Really

banna to be a soldier. But dat is life. An now, he is a politician and President. He goan mek a good wun. Queenstown people always turn out good." "He right yuh know. I could call a couple. Lance Gibbs, Ozzie Gibson, Clive Lloyd, the Bakkers (Ronald, Norman and Steve), Sonny, Colin Wiltshire. Den a banna who use to be a lynotype operator at Chronicle jump in. "You call Lance Gibbs. Yuh know Glendon Gibbs from Maltenoes who use to open fuh Guyana was he uncle. Ah hope you know too dat de best cricketer of all of I ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■I iimir-uuiii iitin? mi llllliri 14 mini •im

time

Sweet By Handel Andrews

At dis stage of de game, I asked the guys if dey want something to eat. Everybody say chicken foot souse. I ask fuh plain chowmein wit pepperpot water. Of course, I was fitting dat bill. I had to separate de wartex from the oda money. "Wuh yuh askin fuh? Chowmein with pepperpot water? Wuh is duh?" I tell him; "Yuh shud railly eat it New Year's day. In de ol' days, everbody eat it at Chung Viet New Year's day. Weh you come from? "Doan worry wit he, he din use to walk. Q.C. boy an Chung Viet was off limits. "Doan worry. But I know you at ma Eraser", he sey pointing at me. After four hours, I lef. It was now 8 o'clock an I was going to go to a place I dis go to during de week. As I go downstairs. "I said, I tink yuk was never comin." It was Eddie Maple. Apart from the Grenadians, dere was Beck, Jack, Carl, Johnny, Mac, Caleb Tom and some other GTs. Eddie said: "Ah bring some garlic pork."

Masquerade band on the street in Guyana during Christmas season. The old tradition still continues — the dancers are in the act of picking up the money from the ground. a rememba a nice hole and ah head straight fuh it. When ah enter, a see banna dem dat a know. Dem is de people to deh wit. A banna I knw growing up shouted, "Give de Queenstown man a drink. " The lady had stolly, so I order it. Man, ah din know so many bannas ah know go there. I ain calling names, because people doan want deh name call without their pemission. The banna who buy the drink went on, "One uh yuh boys from yuh old area in GT s now President, man. Yuh must know him. "Yes, man. Yuh mean David Granger. He yunger dan me; but ah know he as a lil boy an de family. Good people. Doan bother nobody. Yuh know, is funny. I neva expect Larry Lewis to be a police nor dis

dem was Lance big broda, Teddy. But de way Guyana was, he din get a break. Another Banna said, "Yuh talking but cricket. De Banna dat buy yuh de drink used to play fuh D.C.C. "I know de gentleman. While day talkin, two other bannas buy me drinks. After ah drink de firs drink a binny cum in. Man, she tick like mud. Sappadilla brown. I ain deh pun nutin now. But I still dis look. She went straight to the banna who buy me the first drink. "Man, you is something else. Ah taut yuh wus goin to stop by las night." "Yes. But I get hole up." "Ok, ah busy. Come leh we go ouside fuh a minute. Happy Christmas everybody."

"Tanks", I said and took it an put it away. It was very noisy, but everbody was having a good time. Eddie Maple to me: know Morgan dead, eh?

"Yuh

"No, man. Nobody ain tell me dat. I know Morgan since when I use to go to Bentley, de tailor. Not de son, de ol' man by Bourda Green. Man, ah really sorry to hear. I'll take a drink on him. Drinks raise from $4 for vodka to $5 and $4 for beer from $3 during the year. Not bad. I had quite a few. I really wanted to take de garlic pork home. By the way my wife don't eat pork. When de sopy bite me I eat it all out right dear. "Nex year I in GT.", I told Tom. "Well. We'll see. You always going." Ah begin feeling nice and as a big man yuh doan want to make yuself foolish. So, I went home about 3 o'clock.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

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National

for

Prime Minister and First Vice President Moses Nagamootoo - Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly The $250B budget that was presented to the National Assembly on November 28, 2016 was passed today, after a period of consideration and examination of all sectors. Over the past two weeks, all government agencies' budgets were examined by the opposition Members of Parliament who questioned each minister intensely on how the monies will be spent. Key sectors include: education which was allocated $43.IB or 17 percent of the national budget, agriculture with an allocation of $20.6B, and public health with an allocation of $31.2B. The aim of the education sector is to ensure that there is adequate access to education across Guyana, while the public health sector will work towards ensuring equity and

equality in health services' delivery. The agriculture sector is expected to see transformed production in all sub-sectors through agricultural diversification, improved drainage and irrigation systems, and improved research, and extension, in addition to education marketing among other areas. Meanwhile, the public security sector's budgetary allocation of $17.30IB will work towards solidification of its Citizens Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP) while ensuring the crime rates are lowered in 2017. Other sectors will work collaboratively with other ministries and agencies to ensure that the theme of the budget, "Building a diversified green economy, delivering the good life to all Guyanese," is fulfilled and met in 2017.

2017

Budget

passed

Other agencies' budgets that have been approved include: Office of the Prime Minister - $882M Parliament - $1.5B Office of the Auditor General - $755M Guyana Elections Commission - $2.030B Ministry of Presidency - $6.004B Ministry of Social Cohesion - $90.1 M Ministry of Business - $1.7B Ministry of Communities - $5.9B (Regiona allocations not included) Ministry of Finance - $24.9B Ministry of Foreign Affairs - $5.164B Ministry of indigenous Peoples' Affairs - $2.463B Ministry of Natural Resources - $798M Ministry of Public Infrastructure - $34.6B Ministry of Social Protection - $16.6B Ministry of Telecommunications - $2.3B

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

The reading of the Appropriation Bill 2016, Bill Number 24 of 2016, by the clerk of the Nation Assembly was facilitated three times so as to have all budget estimates approved and passed as printed by the Parliament Committee of Supply. Before the National Assembly was adjourned, Leader of Government business, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Member of Parliament, Juan Edghill along with the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland all culminated the session by wishing each other, the media and the Guyanese public best wishes for the season. The Prime Minister said, "I want to (also) take the opportunity to wish members of the government, ministers and parliamentarians, the leader of the opposition, the government chief whip, opposition chief whip, and all other members of the opposition a Merry

Christmas, Happy Holidays and hoping to see you here in the New Year." Opposition MP, Edghill said, "On behalf of the leader of the opposition, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and all of our MPs of this side of the House, the PPP/C and all of our supporters countrywide to extend to you, Sir (Speaker), the staff of the Parliament Office, and to our colleagues on the other side of the House, the media and by extension all of Guyana 'Merry Christmas'. The Speaker in closing the session said, "Christmas is a time for giving and loving, a time for togetherness and not separation. It is a time for appreciating what we have, giving thanks for it, and be willing to share it with others, that's my humble appreciation of Christmas and so I wish that for all of us." The National Assembly is expected to have its next Sitting on January 5, 2017.

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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INFORMATION

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

US$1 M

supermarket

opens

Great

Diamond

- creates job for more than 60 REBECCA Zhang, Managing Director of Freshco Supermarket which recently opened here, has expressed confidence in the local economy. "We believe in the Guyanese economy, and as such we are investing here." she said of the business located at lot 1 B. Public Road, Great Diamond. East Bank Demerara. The US$1M mega supermarket is yet another to meet the needs of a growing populahon It came into being after Zhang made a trip along East

Bank Demerara three years ago. "As Americans on vacation, I and my dad took a drive ftom the airport to Georgetown looking for a quality, comfortable shopping location to get some beverages and other supplies. Tried as we did. we couldn't find any of an international standard to make us feel like we were at home." This, she said spawned an idea: "This is abeautiftil country but it needs some investment to serve as an example of what people should be able to experience when shopping for sup-

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The newly-opened supermarket at lot 1 B Public Road, Great Diamond, East Bank Demerara

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plies: food items, groceries, baby items etc. I shared the idea with my dad and he was all for it so I went back to the US and began planning the way forward." Zhang said through multiple consultations and some setbacks. she was able to convince some investors to buy in to the idea. "There was no major launch just yet but we will eventually. However, we could not wait until the festive season to get started with sales to save residents along the East Bank corridor from having to go all the w ay to the Capital City to get much-needed supphes. so here we are... our doors are opened and we are ready to serve. We have our location is spacious

and carries a wide a variety of brands as possible to cater to the needs of all level of shoppers. We also have excellent parking space and we ensured that we created employment for

One dead, four injured in Linden smash-up TWO young children are now mourning the loss of their mother, while praying for the recovery of their grandmother following their involvement in an accident around 01:45hrs on Tuesday on the Amelia's Ward Hill in Linden Dead is Toushanna Frank.

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upwards of 60 people." The business will soon launch the international Chinese/ Indonesian cuisine Restaurant under the Freshco brand.

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28. of Amelia's Ward, Linden She was pronounced dead on arrival at the Mackenzie Hospital. while her mother. Paula Taylor. 51. who was at the time driving motor car PSS 6725. was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital in a critical state. According to the police. Taylor was proceeding north on the public road when she lost control of the vehicle and collided with minibus BTT 766. which plies the Linden to Georgetown route. The driver of the bus. Royston Telford. 57. of Industrial Area Mackenzie, was proceeding south when Taylor drove into his lane thus causing a collision. He is currently warded at the Mackenzie Hospital. and said to be in a stable condition The other occupants of the motorcar were Frank's two children. Jamica Chan. 10. and Damelle Frank, four, both of whom were treated at the Mackenzie Hospital and sent home. According to an eyewitness. Taylor was driving at a reasonable pace and in her lane when suddenly she changed lanes and collided with the front left hand side of the minibus. "I was driving a li'l way behind, and all I see is this woman pick up a speed and change lane." the eyewitness said, adding: "To me, like she was trying to avoid a bump on top of the hill, but me ain't know if she ain't see the bus or what, 'cause the place was dark."

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

PPP

must

reform

- Jagdeo tells party's 31st Delegates Congress and the poor is imprudent and reflects little or no empathy from the "governing cabal."

essive Party ^ Observers Congress /, Defend Democr cy, o Victory" .2

T /

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo addressing the gathering at congress on Saturday By Tajeram Mohabir THE People's Progressive Party (PPP) 31st Delegates and Observer Congress opened on Saturday with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo issuing a clarion call for reform of the party as it sets sights on regaining power in 2020. Addressing a packed, but a bit lacklustre gathering at Cotton Field Secondary School. Anna Regina. Essequibo Coast, the former President said alleged electoral discrepancies apart, other factors led to the PPP losing office in the May 2015 general and regional elections. The electoral defeat ended the PPP's 23-year reign. While Mr Jagdeo did not delve into or even mention the 'other' factors for the PPP's electoral loss, it has been widely proffered that it was precipitated allegedly by widespread complacency, corruption, cronyism and nepotism. He told the congress, the first since the parly lost office less than two years ago. that Guyana has to steadfastly abide by its founding principles. which is to exclude no one based on their race, religion or gender. And on that note, in a militant tone, he declared. "We will be taking our campaign to our traditional supporters." as well as [to] "those [who] did not support us." to loud applause. Mr Jagdeo. who energised the gathering in his speech, said the message of the PPP will be taken far and wide, to every street, every village and every community. BROAD-MINDED "We have to be an Oppo-

'THEY MISS US' "In 19 months, people have started to miss us badly, our supporters miss us and their supporters miss us too." he said, stressing that the PPP has to be united and use the opportunity while in Opposition to strengthen itself. The former President also told the gathering that whenever the PPP is in power. Guyana always experiences progress.

* I*

'r-

lost their jobs, even though he did not elaborate on this assertion. He also warned about a secret plan by Government to sell out GuySuCo. which began to decline during his presidency. Earlier. Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) Leader Irfaan Ah welcomed the delegates, drawn from the 10 administrative regions. and said the youth arm of the PPP is prepared and looks fonvard to reforming and re-energising the party in the next three years. In the next three years the PYO. he said, will be partnering with every like-minded

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Delegates and Observers sing the party's song on "Fighting Men" before the formal commencement of the 31st congress sition for Guyana, not only for the PPP. We have to create space for those who did not support us. we have to be broad-minded and have a sympathetic ear to all suffering Guyanese." he said, contending that the parly needs to decentralise its operations. This approach, the former President said, would be useful in helping the PPP to regain power from the current Government, which he deems "bereft of ideas" and "totally incapable of leading Guyana." The journey to be in power again, he said, begins at congress, and the party will "work day in" and "day out" to achieve this goal, regardless of attacks and persecution. Trials, discrimination and attacks, he said, are not strange to the PPP. and it has never lost hope, as he praised Dr Cheddi Jagan. the founding leader of the party for his inspiration and leadership. The Opposition Leader said the struggle continues today, and against the Gov-

ernment which has instituted more taxes and would be borrowing more, with little hope of any significant financial returns. The Government has defended the implementation of the suite of new taxes, contending that it is necessary to raise money to improve the services it provides to citizens. But according to Jagdeo. the across-the-board taxing of women, vendors, the rich

and as such, it is proud of its track record. For the 19 months the Government has been in power. he noted that progress has slowed, reflecting the opposite of what they had promised on the 2015 campaign trail. Mr Jagdeo went on to claim that so far under the current Government, no new investor has come to Guyana and over 10.000 Guyanese

youth organisation, seek to broaden its membership, rebuild parly groups at district and community levels, fight youth discrimination, create widespread awareness of abuse, create safe houses to tackle suicide and domestic violence, provide extra lessons to help underprivileged students and slow learners and prepare for every struggle and battle ahead.

"We will stand side by side of the people to grind oppression to the dust." he said to a loud round of applause. 'FIGHTING' NOT 'FRIGHTENED' PPP General-Secretary Clement Rohee. who spoke after him. wasted no time in reminding the delegates that the PPP is a "fighting" and not "frightened" party and will mobilise to give the APNU+AFC just a single term in office. During the PPP's tenure in office, he said all benefitted from the overflowing cup of the PPP. and all must be mobilised to restore the benefits in 2020. The parly's union representative. Komal Chand. lamented the state of the sugar industry and the closure of the Wales Estate, which he said will add to the unemployment woes of the country. But Government had said that some of the workers will be integrated into the Uitvlugt Estate, while others received over $80M in severance pay. Indra Chandarpal. of the Women's Progressive Organisation (WPO) in a brief address, emphasised the need for honest and fair party leaders. and persons who put the party above personal interest. This, she said, is also important in helping the PPP to win back power in 2020, and urged all members to use social media to spread the PPP's message, build support and unite the party. Dharamkumar Seeraj, another PPP Member of Parliament (MP), also addressed the 31st congress held under the theme, "Strengthening the party, defend democracy, onward to victory".

People's Progres and

* K 1 The top PPP leadership at the 31st Delegates and Observers Congress at the Cotton Field Secondary School on Saturday

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Emphasis on Real Estate, Taxes and Business The Edgar Henry Column RESPA is all about closing costs and settlement procedures in relation to your mortgage. RESPA requires that consumers receive disclosures at various times in the mortgage transaction and outlaws kickbacks that increase the cost of settlement services. RESPA is a (Housing and Urban Development) HUD consumer protection statute designed to help homebuyers be better shoppers in the home buying process. Till REAL ESTATE SETTLEMENT PROCEDURES ACT (RESPA) RESPA is a consumer protection statute, first passed in 1974. The purposes of RESPA are to help consumers become better shoppers for settlement services and to eliminate hanky-panky. Some disclosures spell out the costs associated with the settlement, outline lender servicing and escrow account practices and describe business relationships between settlement service providers. The November 2008 RESPA rule became effective in January 16, 2009 under the Real estate settlement procedures act RESPA. The real estate settlement procedures act provides consumers with improved disclosures of settlement costs and to reduce the costs of closing. RESPA also forbids certain practices that increase the cost of settlement services. Section 8 of RESPA prohibits a person from giving or accepting any thing of value for referrals of settlement service business related to a federally related mortgage loan. It also prohibits a person from giving or accepting any part of a charge for services that are not performed. Section 9 of RESPA prohibits home sellers from requiring home buyers to purchase title insurance from a particular company. RESPA IN GENERAL RESPA covers loans secured with a mortgage placed on a one-to-four family residential property. These include most purchase loans, assumptions, refinances, property improvement loans, and equity lines of credit. HUD's Office of RESPA and Interstate Land Sales is responsible for enforcing RESPA. RESPA REQUIRED DISCLOSURES Whenever borrowers apply for a mortgage loan, mortgage brokers and /or lenders must give the borrowers a Special Information Booklet, which contains consumer information regarding various real estate settlement services. Particularly for purchase transactions, a Good Faith Estimate (GEE) of settlement costs should be presented to the buyer showing what he is likely to pay at settlement. This is only an estimate and the actual charges may differ. If a lender requires the borrower to use a particular settlement provider, then the lender must disclose this requirement on the GEE. It also should provide a Mortgage Servicing Disclosure Statement, which discloses to the borrower whether the lender intends to service the loan or transfer it to another lender. If the borrowers do not get these documents at the time of application, the lender must mail them within three business days

of receiving the loan application. If the lender turns down the loan within three days, then RESPA does not require the lender to provide these documents. The RESPA statute does not provide an explicit penalty for the failure to provide the Special Information Booklet, Good Faith Estimate or Mortgage Servicing Statement. However, bank regulators may choose to impose penalties on lenders who fail to comply with the federal law. DISCLOSURES BEFORE SETTLEMENT/CLOSING OCCURS The terms "settlement" and "closing" can be and are used interchangeably. An Affiliated Business Arrangement (AFBA) Disclosure is required whenever a settlement service provider involved in a RESPA covered transaction refers the consumer to a provider with whom the referring party has an ownership or other beneficial interest. The referring party must give the AFBA disclosure to the consumer at or prior to the time of referral. The disclosure must describe the business arrangement that exists between the two providers and give the borrower an estimate of the second provider's charges. Except in cases where a lender refers a borrower to an attorney, credit reporting

O.G.

agency or real estate appraiser to represent the lender's interD est in the transaction, the referring party may not require _\ the consumer to use the particular provider being referred. The HUD-1 Settlement Statement is a standard form that clearly shows all charges HEAl. tSTATE SETHEHENT FHOCtOlWS ACT imposed on borrowers and sellers in connection with the DISCLOSURES AFTER settlement. RESPA allows the borrower to SETTLEMENT request to see the HUD-1 Settlement StateLoan servicers must deliver to borrowment one day before the actual settlement. ers an Annual Escrow Statement once a The settlement agent must then provide the year. The annual Escrow account statement borrowers with a completed HUD-1 Settle- summarizes all escrow account deposits and ment Statement based on information payments during the servicer's twelve month computation year. It also notifies the known to the agent at that time. borrower of any shortages or surpluses in DISCLOSURES AT SETTLEMENT the account and advises the borrower about The HUD-1 Settlement Statement the course of action being taken. shows the actual settlement costs of the A Servicing Transfer Statement is reloan transaction. Separate forms may be quired if the loan servicer sells or assigns prepared for the borrower and the seller. the servicing rights to a borrower's loan to Where it is not the practice that the bor- another loan servicer. Generally, the loan rower and the seller both attend the settle- servicer must notify the borrower 15 days ment, the HUD-1 should be mailed or before the effective date of the loan transdelivered as soon as practicable after set- fer. As long the borrower makes a timely tlement. payment to the old servicer within 60 days The Initial Escrow Statement itemizes of the loan transfer, the borrower cannot be the estimated taxes, insurance premiums penalized. The notice must include the and other charges anticipated to be paid name and address of the new servicer, tollfrom the Escrow Account during the first free telephone numbers, and the date the twelve months of the loan. It lists the Es- new servicer will begin accepting paycrow payment amount and any required ments. cushion. Although the statement is usually "It is always better to have informagiven at settlement, the lender has 45 days tion and not need it than to need it and not from settlement to deliver it. have it."

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

HARRIS CHRISTMAS BRINGS

@ LARGE (Ed Hams Column)

GREAT PROMISE

FOR SAINT LUC1ANS IN 2017!

To my readers of the Caribbean Diaspora and others around the world, it gives me great pleasure to wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS! It is that time of year when LOVE finds its way in the hearts of all people of goodwill. St. Lucians have a lot to be joyful for this holiday season as, recent pronouncements by the Prime Minister, Honourable Allen Chastanet continue to point to the realisation of JOBS in the South and West coasts of the island as several projects are scheduled to kick start in 2017. President Elect, Donald Trump has at the top of his agenda â€” JOBS! JOBS! JOBS! Like the USA, St. Lucia has severe problems with its roads and bridges which need urgent attention. The infrastructure will demand a sizeable investment to remedy the situation. Apart from developments in the hotel sector and new large scale projects, the future for job opportunities look great in 2017. This gives every reason for many of the unemployed persons and those who need a job change or relocation to be joyful. Investment flows will definitely improve in 2017. Loreign Direct Investment will return to our shores. St. Lucia hosted the INTERREG Conference at the Rex St. Lucian, Rodney Bay on Wednesday 14th December, 2016 where Entrepreneurs met with EU Officials to launch a special fund that will facilitate business development between the French territories and other Caribbean States. The fund is already moving ahead as 30 projects were approved. In order for English Speaking Caribbean resident business persons to access the funding, they must be in partnership with a French counterpart. There will definitely be increased demands on the Fund in the New Year.

GPL

turns

The decision to change the Tourist Board to the Tourism Authority with employees of the Tourist Board being made redundant is very much on the cards and the format for the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival after 25 years will no longer be the same. There is a proposal to have a Summer Festival lasting from May to November each year. There will be Jazz Week in May, ending with Creole and Heritage Festival in November. I am hoping that Jazz Week will be a Jazz affair and not diluted with any other genre. In recent times, Jazz Festival was more like a Music Festival. I have always contended that the emphasis should have been placed on JAZZ. Then, there can be Reggae Festival, Rock Festival, Soul Festival, simply let the genres compete. Invite Entrepreneurs to bid to host the several shows and let some new entrepreneurs emerge. I feel a lot can be achieved by the new approach. I am excited. It is with heartfelt sympathy that I note the passing of Mr. Chris Renwick, O.B.E., one of St. Lucia's outstanding entrepreneurs . He was the Managing Director of Renwick & Co. Ltd. which operates a diversified Trading Company.

down

power per day and an additional 3.2 megawatts of excess power. Homer, during a press conference at GPL's Kingston Head Office, said the power company was approached by Giftland but the particulars of the proposal fell short in addressing the needs of GPL. "The time in which the Giftland Mall was desirous of supplying energy to GPL was really not in keeping with the time we would actually benefit from that excess energy." the CEO (ag) told reporters in response to a question posed. It was explained that the

His firm is the main distributor for cement for several decades. He will surely be missed in the Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of St. Lucia. In 2015 Mr. Renwick received the St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture â€” Lifetime Achievement Award. This week's recommended website is www.interreg-caraibes.fr Remember always to Keep the

Giftland's

- says terms not feasible, uneconomical THE Guyana Power and Light (GPL) said it had to walk away from a proposal by Giftland Mall to sell it electricity owing to the cost and the time the business entity was prepared to supply power. This announcement was made by GPL's Chief Executive Officer (ag). Renford Homer during a news conference on Monday. Giftland Mall, located at Turkeyen on the East Bank of Demerara. is generating its own electricity. The mall's power station has the capacity to satisfy its demand of 1.5 megawatts of

mall was suggesting to supply Sophia and neighbouring communities with electricity between 10:00h and 13:00 when the demand for electricity is usually between 18:30h and 21:00h. Homer said to take on board an offer to supply energy when it is really not needed "doesn't make economic sense to GPL." The power company's proposal, according to the CEO (ag) was communicated to Giftland. Deputy CEO Technical. Elwyn Marshall told reporters that certain technical criteria had to be met before

power

GPL could have taken on such a proposal. "It has to be a coordinated effort. It has to be done in a way that it doesn't add instability to our fragile grid." Marshall said. He added that in addition to the technical aspects. GPL has to purchase the power at an economical rate in an effort to sell back to consumers in the targeted areas. "We had initial discussions with Giftland; they had a certain concept in terms of the price they wanted to sell the product to GPL." he said, noting however, that it was not in keeping with what GPL had required, emphasising that they are both financial and technical implications.

Faith, knowing that God is in Charge Dream Big and Expect Miracles! Edward Harris: Biblicist, Author/Publisher, Business Consultant, Real Estate Agent/Broker, Networker, CSR/Small Business Advocate & Motivational Speaker. Email: jobfreelife72@yahoo.coni Website: www.stluciasimplybeautiful .com Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/edharrisbiz

supply

Meanwhile. GPL is putting systems in place to reduce the likelihood of power outages. According to Marshall. GPL currently has a firm capacity of 104 megawatts of electricity, excluding the generation of power available to the company from the Skeldon Factory. Skeldon has the capacity to generate a minimum of 8 megawatts. He said when the Garden of Eden Wartsila Plant goes into full operation by Friday, an additional 5.5 megawatts of power will be accumulated. "This would give us a reserve of close to 10 megawatts which traditionally, we like to operate with a reserve

offer

that allows for the failure of our largest unit. Our largest unit right now is 8.7 megawatts. so we will like to have at least 9 to 10 megawatts." Marshall further explained. He said the reserve would significantly reduce the risk of widespread power outages for expensive periods during the festive season. It was noted too by the CEO (ag) that in the lead up to festive season, GPL intensifies it maintenance operation. Additionally, in response to the picketing exercise conducted by some of its workers, GPL has asked its contract workers to be on standby in the case of an emergency.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

'Tough

decisions'

made

...to correct Jagdeo's mistakes - VPRamjattan By Svetlana Marshall TOUGH decisions had to be made in crafting the 2017 National Budget to correct the mistakes made under the Bharrat Jagdeo Administration when it had taken a decision to introduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) at a rate of 16 per cent, Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan has said. Speaking during the televised programme - Budget in Focus 2017 - hosted by the Director of Public Information Imran Khan on the National Communications Network (NCN). the vice-president said the $250B Budget was remarkably crafted by Finance Minister Winston Jordan when the global economy is neither contracting nor increasing. Here in Guyana, the country recorded a 2.6 per cent real economic growth for 2016. a decline from the 4.4 per cent projected earlier

Indian

this year. At mid-year, a real economic growth rate of 2 per cent was achieved, but several industries and sectors. including sugar, rice, constraction and wholesale and retail trade, were showing signs of distress. As such, the projected growth rate for 2016 was revised downwards to 4 per cent. Notwithstanding these challenges, he said the Government for yet another year will be bailing out the sugar industry with a $9B injection. Nevertheless, he said very hard decisions had to be made by Minister Jordan in order to take the country in the right direction. Explaining the much-talked-about revised tax regime that will take effect on January 1. 2017. Minister Ramjattan said. "Revenue streams" are critical to the development of any country, and as such while the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government had taken a decision to fulfil its manifesto

executive

PROMINENT Indian lawyer and business executive Dr. V.R.S. Sampath visited Guyana during the past week and held talks with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and other key Government and private sector officials, including

the Private Sector Commission and the University of Guyana, in regard to bringing investors to Guyana. A release from the Office of the Prime Minister has said that Dr. Sampath. a native of Tamil Nadu, is

promise of reducing VAT. it was similarly important for the Government to maintain its revenue stream. He said it is in this context that Budget 2017 must be viewed, explaining that while VAT has been reduced to 14 per cent from a high of 16 per cent, other taxes had to be raised and the tax base expanded to maintain the revenue stream. "Very tough decisions had to be made and they had to be made this year." the vice- president said as he applauded the Finance Minister for his "bold" steps. He said the steps being taken by the Finance Minister are not only bold, but are also corrective measures. The statesman, who has been a Member of Parliament for approximately 25 years, further explained that in 2005 VAT was introduced to Guyana. aimed at raking in approximately $17B. He said when the overall tax was introduced, it was advised by the experts that it be

explores President of the Madras Development Society and founder of the World Tamils Economic Foundation, both of which netw ork with strategic investors worldwide. He has indicated strong interest in investing in the rice, sugar, granite and In-

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Vice-President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan 12 per cent or less, but then President Bharrat Jagdeo had set the rate at 16 per cent. "What Mr. Jagdeo and his Government, the PPP then. did...in 2005 although they passed that Act. did not enforce VAT for the entire year 2006. because it was an elections year, but as soon as 2007 came however, on the 1st January. VAT literally came on stream. And you

Budget know what was the rate? Sixteen per cent, four more." Minister Ramjattan posited. According to him. what the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration had done at the time was to "loot the poor people of this country." ft was noted that the increase imposed by the Jagdeo Administration had racked up approximately $18B in taxes. "When they are talking about we are ripping the people off. I want the people to understand, the rip-off happened in 2005." Minister Ramjattan lamented. Subsequent to the implementation of VAT. the former President took a decision to place a number of items on a zero-rated list, the vice-president further explained, noting that it was possible for the PPP Administration to do so because of the huge surplus it had acquired. Approximately 10 years after, the ill-advised decision taken by the then president, is being rectified with VAT being reduced, the vice-pres-

investment formation Communication Technology (ICT) sectors, and in the establishment of a medical school and hospital in Guyana. His visit, aimed at coordinating investor missions to Guyana, follows Prime Minister Nagamootoo's at-

ident said, while noting that it would have been economically wrong for the Government to retain all of the zero-rated items. He said if such a decision had been taken, the revenue stream would have shrank, and as such would have taken a toll on infrastractural and other programmes such as the constraction of schools, roads, bridges and hospitals. "We don't have that luxury and so we have to make sure that in order to do our social programmes and social projects we have to have that revenue stream." he emphasised. Minister Ramjattan also used the opportunity to warn Guyanese about Jagdeo. According to him. Jagdeo. who is now the leader of the Opposition. is a very smart and clever individual with "many faces." "He has a face for everything. It is a remarkable trait that he has which is going to impress you," Minister Ramjattan posited, while further warning Guyanese not be deceived.

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Dr. V.R.S. Sampath is making a point while Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Vice President Khemraj Ramjattan and Minister Cathy Hughes listen (Adrian Persaud photo)

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo poses with Dr. V.R.S. Sampath at the Office of the Prime Minister (Adrian Persaud photo) tendance at the World Tamils Economic Conference in Chennai. India during October last. The Tamil Nadu advocate met with vice-presidents Carl Greenidge and Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister of Business. Dominic Gaskin; Agriculture Minister Noel Holder and other ministers on Thursday last at Parliament Buildings. He was also chief guest at the Prime Min-

ister's reception held at his residence on Friday evening. Dr. Sampath has committed to returning to Guyana in the first quarter of 2017 with a team of investors, to further pursue investment opportunities. During his one-week scouting mission in Guyana, he also visited Berbice, where he looked at the investment potential in the agriculture sector.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Guyana-Suriname

Council By Svetlana Marshall DURING a high-level meeting between President David Granger and Suriname President Desire Delano Bouterse at the Guyana Marriott Hotel on Friday, it was agreed that a special envoy should be appointed to accelerate the process by which agreements are implemented, and that the Guyana-Suriname Cooperation Council should be resuscitated. At a joint press conference. President Bouterse explained that when he had met with President Granger on July 1 in Nieuw Nickerie. Suriname. they had concluded with a joint communique identifying 10 areas of mutual interest to be developed, but several months after, progress made thus far is unsatisfactory. As such, the Presidents have agreed to put a structural mechanism in place that would be results-based, allowing for the implementation of agreements within specified timeframes. "We have created a mechanism in which the different issues that will be brought up. or have been brought up per sector, can be discussed; and that these will be implemented and monitored within a certain timeframe. and then reported back." President Bouterse said. He said this mechanism allows for a special envoy to report directly to both Presidents. Weighing in on the issue.

President Granger said: "We have embarked on a series of engagements, and today we took decisions that will not only expedite matters that were taken in previous

President noted that both countries must first agree on the terms of reference. ".. .the envoy can do what is called shuttle diplomacy between the two capitals.

Cooperation

resuscitated Canawaima ferry and the livelihood of persons who cross the Corentyne River on a regular basis, particularly minibus operators. Already, the Surinamese

shown an interest in paying for the construction of the bridge. However, a feasibility study on the project and the project area has not been completed.

Presidents David Granger and Desire Delano Bouterse addressing journalists at the Guyana Marriott on Friday years, but. more importantly, planned for the future. We are particularly concerned with the economic integration of our two states and the removal of any obstacles to that process of integration." He explained that the basic structure is based on the resuscitation of the Guyana-Suriname Cooperation Council. Pointing out that the special envoy has not yet been appointed, the Guyanese

so anytime there is a bottle neck, we are confident that it would be cleared up much more quickly." President Granger said. For Guyana, the hassle-free movement of minibus operators and access to Surinamese airports by Guyanese airlines remain economic blockages for the country and its people. As such. President Granger said, discussions were also based on the functioning of the

President has agreed to return to Suriname with the aim of finding solutions to a number of minor issues affecting Guyanese in Suriname. "...our delegation has promised to go back and find solutions to those small problems." President Bouterse said. Asked about the construction of a bridge across the Corentyne River to link the two countries. President Bouterse said that China has

He said Brazil and the European Union have also shown an interest in the construction of the bridge, but there must first be consensus on the location for the construction. According to a joint communique issued upon conclusion of the high-level meeting, the Guyanese and Surinamese Heads of Government held substantive and fruitful discussions on other issues of common interest

at the bilateral, regional and international levels. "Desirous of further strengthening cooperation activities between the two countries, the two Heads directed that Guyana-Suriname Cooperation Council be resuscitated, and that their respective technical officials meet to discuss issues in relation to the protection of the environment, agriculture, trade, tourism, investment and cross-border activities through their respective committees." the joint communique stated. President Bouterse arrived in Guyana on Friday morning at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport, with his delegation which included his Minister of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Niermala Badrising. and several other high-level officials. He was accorded the ceremonial Guard of Honour mounted by the Guyana Defence Force upon his arrival. The Guyanese delegation, led by President Granger, included Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams; Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes; and Director General in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Audrey Waddell, all of whom were part of a plenary session with the visiting party.

Government MPs also senred tax demand notices â€˘ Statia MR. Godfrey Statia, Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), has rebutted allegations by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo that parliamentarians from the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) have been politically targeted by the issuance of property tax demand notices. Speaking at a press conference on Friday at the GRA's Camp Street headquarters. Statia said that Members of Parliament from both sides of the National Assembly were served tax demand notices. "I would like to assure

the Opposition Leader that if there was any political intervention, any targeting, it would not have been for those five persons, because I am sure those five persons (are) a drop in the bucket." Statia said. He said that as far as he is aware, there has been no political intervention, and he has not received any call from any political appointee of the Government. "I can assure you it was not political. Nothing that was sent was political. So far. I have not gotten any political direction. My minister (Minister of Finance) has been

hands- off and has allowed me free rein. There has been no political direction."Statia explained. But he cautioned that it must be understood that "we have an obligation, and public officers. MPs or whoever have an obligation to file their taxes on or before April 30th the following year." Jagdeo. at a press conference earlier this week, disclosed that five of his Members of Parliament were served with property tax notices during the budget debates. and he alleged vindictiveness on the part of the Government. Those served

are Joe Hamiltoa Frank Anthony. Indra Chandarpal. Juan Edghill and Irfaan Ali; and according to Jagdeo. he has spoke to the MPs and they have indicated that they do not owe any taxes. But Statia made it clear that Parliamentarians from both sides of the House, as well as heads of government entities, were served notices for taxes owed. "Everybody at the top of government agencies I instructed that they must submit all their outstanding returns. I demanded that of them, because (when you are) holding a public office, you must be held to

a certain standard; and I am sure (that) if the Opposition had checked, they would have seen that certain notices would have reached them long before." He explained that there has been no targeting of the PPP MPs. and noted that the notices may have reached them recently. The GRA head told reporters that when he took office, he perased a list of all the persons to whom notices had been sent, and Members of Parliament on both sides of the aisle were observed on the list. "We sent out notices to all Members of Parliament.

all permanent secretaries..." he stated. Over the past few months, the Commissioner-General said, "people have been refusing mail once they see it has originated from the GRA; so I have since instmcted my staff not to put a return address." He noted that in the case of the five PPP Members of Parliament, their notices may "have fallen through the cracks." "If they received it during the budget debates, they would have received it late; and they should have gotten it since in August," Statia explained.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

(from page 7) ing his lifetime and the scarcity of genuine non-Christian reference to him in the early centuries after his death. Those arguing for a historical Jesus, point to comments by Flavius Josephus, Pliny, the Younger and the canonical gospels. "That a man named Jesus, an obscure religious teacher, the basis of this fabulous Christ, lived in Palestine about nineteen hundred years ago, may be true. But of this man we know nothing. His biography has not been written. A Roman and others have attempted to write it, but have failed—have failed because no materials for such a work exists." There are many writers who should have mentioned Jesus. Because the list is long, I will only mention three. Philo Judaeus (20 BCE-50 ACE) was a Hellenistic Jewish philosopher, born in Alexandria and was part of its Jewish elite. His works on the Jewish religion and on contemporary Jewish politics

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are extant; but did not mention Jesus. He even spent time in Jerusalem during the period that Jesus was supposed to have lived there. One of his nephews, Marcus, was married to Bernice, daughter of Herod Agrippa, Tetrarch of Galilee in Jesus' time. Kenneth Humphreys says that, "Philo was also in the right place to give testimony of a messianic contender. A Jewish aris-

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tocrat and leader of the large Jewish community of Alexandria, we know that Philo spent time in Jerusalem (On Providence) where he had intimate connections with the royal house of Judaea. Philo offers commentary on all the major characters of the Pentateuch and, as we might expect, mentions Moses more than a thousand times. Yet Philo says not a word about Jesus." Seneca, the Younger (4 BCEACE 65) was a Roman philosopher, statesman and dramatist during the time Jesus was supposed to have lived. He makes no mention of Jesus. Plutarch (46 ACE-120 ACE) is the most renowned biographer of the ancient world, author of Parallel lives of Famous Greeks and Romans, now known as Plutarch's Lives. He was bom approximately 16 years after Jesus' supposed death. Is it unreasonable to expect that a historian/biographer of his stature would have heard about the Jewish leader, who was well known in Palestine and whose death must have been known to the Romans? EXPLAINING NON-MENTION One reason advanced to explain the absence of contemporary or near-contemporary mention of Jesus is that he was a lowly carpenter turned itinerant preacher and not a noteworthy figure to earn the mention of men of letters. This is not tenable, because it presupposes that men of letters do not mention minor figures, even though they make an impact on their society. For the sake of argument, let me grant the contention that Jesus

was a lowly carpenter turned itinerant preacher and not a noteworthy figure to earn the mention of men of letters. What of the Provincial records? They do not mention him. It is unreasonable not to expect them to mention the death of a man who rocked the Jewish establishment, a fact emphasized by the canonical gospels. Even the High Priest was involved in his trial and the Tetrarch of Judaea sentenced him. MENTION OF JESUS The canonical gospels mention Jesus; but they were not written by those whose names appear beside them. The author of the Gospel according Matthew is anonymous. The "according to Matthew" was added sometime in the 2nd century. The author of Mark's Gospel, the oldest canonical gospel, is unknown. Luke's author is unknow, although some traditions trace the author to Luke, a traveling companion of John Mark. John's Gospel like the other canonical gospels, John's Gospel is anonymous. None of the canonical writers were eyewitnesses. As such, their writings do not offer sufficient evidence in support of a historical Jesus, they are merely hearsay.. I celebrate Christmas as the birth of Jesus as God's gift to save the world from its sins, "faith is the substance of things hoped for. The evidence of things not seen." Jesus' birth is true by faith. To the believer, the Bible is sufficient evidence to accept and remember the birth of Jesus, the Christ. HAVE A JOYFUL, CHRISTCENTERED CHRISTMAS.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Masquerade AMIDST talk about the preservation of this fading art form, the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport on Monday launched what is called the National Masquerade Jamboree on Main Street in downtown Georgetown. The event has also seen veteran flautist Mr. Rudolph 'Putagee' Vivierous being recognised as the doyen of the masquerade. The promotion of this festival is a collaborative effort between the Department of Culture. Youth and Sport and the US-based Guyana Cultural Association (GCA). whose members were flown to Guyana by Fly Jamaica Airlines specifically for the occasion. At the launch yesterday. Festival Coordinator Ms. Linda Griffith said the threeday activity is being featured in the festive season, allowing masqueraders opportunity to flounce, celebrate and compete in various areas; spread the story of the mas-

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—I ... Festival Coordinator Ms. Linda Griffith addressing masqueraders at the launch yesterday on Main Street outside the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport querade. and tell what the art form is all about. Yesterday's event marked the official opening of the jamboree, and masqueraders in brilliant apparel turned out in their numbers, some on stilts, along with the famous Mother Sally and 'mad-bull' dancers and other flouncers and players of the

musical band. 'Putagee' Vivierous. who was hailed as one of the longest-serving and most talented masquerade flouncers. will be featured widely during the entire festival. As a result of his significant contribution to preserving the art form, he has been named a recipient of the GCA's Life-

time Achievement Award in 2017 in the USA. Now an amputee. Vivierous. one of the oldest masqueraders alive, sat yesterday in his wheelchair and joyfully played the flute in his band, causing Griffith to remark that "though he has lost his leg. he has not lost his sting."

Masquerade bands from Ann's Grove. Victoria and Plaisance on the East Coast of Demerara; and Linden. Upper Demerara River, among other communities, gathered to dance, with little Levi Barry ~ a mere three years old ~ flouncing skillfully to the great pleasure of the audience.

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Dr. Rosalind October-Edun. an executive of the GCA. said though many youngsters are not familiar with the art form, "masquerade lives, and will live on." The GCA has collaborated meaningfully, in a project which began in 2012. to ensure the art form does not disappear from Guyana's rich culture. Dr. Edun hailed Vivierous as a "stalwart" in the field, and "a Guyanese icon when we talk masquerade." She said a research done by Dr. Paloma Mohamed has revealed much about the art. and highlights the work of Vivierous in its preservation and development. Findings of that research will be presented and discussed at a forum over the next tw o days. A "flounce-off will be staged tonight at Plaisance, and a book for children, written by Juliet Emanuel on the topic of masquerade, will be launched on Wednesday at the National School of Dance.

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.. .following Joint Services raid A JOINT Services raid of the Georgetown Prison on Saturday morning unearthed narcotics, cellphones an d phone cards, Commander Clifton Hicken has confirmed. The search ended at approximately ILOOhrs and saw the prison being cordoned off and monitored by both police and soldiers. The raid, which started in the main prison cell blocks about 05:00hrs. saw prisoners being taken out of their cells so that the search could be conducted.

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year, the most memorable of which was in the month of May. when "Operation Restore Order" resulted in the seizure of 44 mobile phones, over 150 improvised weapons, scissors, a quantity of marijuana and

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tattoo machines, among other items. This resulted after the deadly March 3. 2016 prison riot, which saw prisoners setting the remand section of the jail alight, leaving 17 prisoners dead.

Advertise

newspaper

Masquerade stalwart Rudolph 'Putagee' Vivierous in action yesterday at the launch of the Masquerade Jamboree Festival on Main Street

weapons found

lighters. 53 packs of cigarettes. 126 razor blades. 14 SIM cards and three memory cards. Several raids were carried out throughout the

A Commission of Inquiry was set up by President David Granger following the riot, and the report from that inquiry contains recommendations for managing the country's prisons.

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917-179-6990

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

New York Chrenicle Heroscipe

1 ARSES (Mar. 21-April 20) You will reap the rewards for your kind actions. A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent-up energy. Opportunities will develop through those you encounter while attending organizational events. Rewards for past good deeds will highlight your day. Your lucky day next weel will be Sunday. IMRIS (Apr.21-May21) Travel for business will not only bring you valuable information but also profits as well. You should get out and enjoy social events where you are likely to meet new potential mates; however, don't over spend. Try not to be too harsh with loved ones; there will always be two sides to an Issue. You could be cornered, so be prepared to tell the truth. Your lucky day next week will be Wednesday. GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Networking will be a necessity. Read between the lines before you sign your name. You can enjoy social events and meet new potential mates; however, avoid being lavish. Set a limit on the amount you're willing to spend, and be sure to stick to it. Your lucky day next week will be Tuesday CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Be careful while traveling. Investments will not be as they appear this week. You will have the discipline to make changes you feel are necessary. Someone you care about may not be too well. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your outgoing, aggressive nature will attract someone you've been eager to meet. Positive connections can be made if you get involved in % environmental organizations. You may be upset if someone has borrowed something that belongs to you. Travel will also be very informative. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. tltr VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Be careful not to show your temper when dealing with the boss. Talk to people who can give you important knowledge. Your mate could get on your nerves if he or she backs you into an emotional comer or puts restrictions on your time. Your tendency to take on too much will end in fatigue. Your lucky day next week will be Wednesday. LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) Entertainment should include your whole family. You will be prone to carelessness that could result in accidents. Make sure to arrange in advance to spend quality time together. Your involvement in groups will be favorable for meeting new and exciting individuals. Your lucky day next week will be Thursday. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Someone may try to damage your reputation. Recognition will be yours if you meet your deadline. Y Spend time with friends and relatives. Travel for pleasure. Cultural activities will prove to be quite enlightening for everyone. Your lucky day next week will be Friday. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) You may feel a need to make changes to your legal documents. You're in a high cycle for romance. Involvement in groups will be favorable. Business partnerships will prove lucrative. Opportunities for partnerships are present; but get every detail in writing.Your lucky day next week will be Tuesday CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your practical approach to life may charm someone who has been observing you. This day was meant for love. Make creative changes to your residence. You need to sit back and enjoy. You will find that you can work progressively at improving yourself this week. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday

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6. Small, Hawaiian guitar 7. Share trading locale (abbr.) 8. Likely IRS worker 9. Oslo's locale (abbr.) 10. Beatty of "Superman" 12. Got together 15. Zorro's marks 16. Tac's minty partner 19. Clean by hard rubbing 20. Actress Ryan 21. Ten-cent coins 23. George M. 25. In the vicinity 26. Cognizant 27. Fender mishaps 29. Happy energy 31. Moose's relative 35. up (joining together) 40. Rigging support 42. Daly of "Wings" 44. Gabs 47. Army post 49. Busy buzzer 50. Gobbled up 51. Charged atom 52. Home (abbr.) 53. Dally 54. Asian holiday 55. Yale student 56. Hotel offerings (abbr.)

1 39. "Attention shoppers..." 41. Tops 43. Small insect 45. Pub orders 46. Tech co. 48. Not present (abbr.) 50. Certain postage item (3 wds.) 57. Sandal's lack 58. Sidewinder, e.g. 59. "A Nightmare on Street" 60. Naval rank (abbr.) 61. Omelet needs 62. It is, to Keats

ACROSS 1. Towards the stem 4. Dazzle 8. Wolf Blitzer's channel 11. Manna 12. The _ Way 13. Author Edgar Allan 14. Soft, cold dessert (2 wds.) 17. Airport schedule abbr. 18. Island wreath 19. Aspect 22. Frozen water 24. Dressed 28. Opposite of soggy 30. Bullring cry 32. Be beholden to 33. Sleep cycle (abbr.) 34. Lucy's pal 36. Tuna container 37. French article 38

DOWN 1. Politician Landon 2. Pro 3. Truth, in China 4. Biblical mountain 5. Doting attention, informally

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Uncertainties regarding your home and family are evident. Opportunities will come through behind the scenes activities. Overexertion and negligence will be your worst enemies. Your lucky day next week will be Thursday

DOUR DROLL DULL ELFIN GRUFF

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) Residential moves will be hectic and may be unsatisfactory. Elders may get you going this week. You have worked hard and the payback is now. Channel your energy into decorating or household chores. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

EMPHASIS ON COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

Health & Education Relief Organization for Cancer (HEROC)

Breakfast/Brunch on January 8,2017 - New York Once

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HEALTH & EDUCATION RELIEF ORGANIZATION FOR CANCER

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PRESENTS

be hosting its Annual Holiday

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Breakfast/Brunch on January

OUR 4th ANNUAL BREAKFAST & DUTCH AUCTION

8th, 2017 Please see the flyer at right.

REMSEN HALL 375 Remsen Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11212 (bet. Lenox Rd & Clatkson Ave)

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For the past three years we have been building and gearing up for our Mission Trip to Guyana which was just completed in November 5th, 2016. It is now our desire to return to our homeland every year in October during Cancer Awareness month to continue our work. After a very successful trip, it is our desire to grow each year and your continued support will allow us to meet our goals.

SUNDAY JANUARY B™ 2017 10:00 AM ■ 2:00 PM a'

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Come out and enjoy a savory meal mth friends and

familyf r* Bring your appetite and don't forget yuh SSSS for de auction with bids starting 1PS1.QD SSSS

Please come out and support our Holiday Breakfast/Brunch and help us at this very motivational fund raiser event.

Children $15.00 I

Best regards and wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas.

Adults $20.00

Tickets please contact: LORNA 646-522-8005; THERESA 347-901-0009 HAROLD 917-496-8247; MARIA 917-385-6409

WILLIAMS HOSTS 5TH ANNUAL SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON BROOKLYN, JNY: On Dec. 16, Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, Deputy Leader, hosted his 5th Senior Holiday Luncheon at Tropical Paradise

Ballroom. The annual holiday event was organized in

partnership with the Elatbush Development Corporation kwV

and the Brooklyn Arts Council. Attendees enjoyed performances by I.E.T Band, Council Member Williams Holiday Choir, and the Ebenezer Missionary Prep School Choir and Dancers. "I look forward to our senior holiday luncheon every year," Council Member Williams said. "The luncheon gives me an opportunity to interact with the elders in our community and show them the appreciation we have for them." Roughly 200 seniors from Midwood Senior Center, Phillip Howard, Glenwood Senior Center, St. Augustine's and Clarendon Road Senior Center joined the Council Member and his staff at the annual holiday luncheon. The event opened with a performance from Ebenezer Missionary Prep School Choir & Dancers, followed by greetings from

Council Member Williams and Brooklyn Arts Council, The crowd was then serenaded by a performance from LET Band, and duets from Director of Constituent Services Jacob Gold and Council Member Williams singing "Santa is Coming to Town," followed by a solo performances of "Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel" by Gold and "Oh Holy Night" by Jeanine Williams, the Council Member's sister. "It is important and rewarding to celebrate the holidays with the community's seniors," added Council Member Williams. "They are the cornerstone of our communities and one of the more engaged groups in the community, and deserve the same attention they give to their community on a daily basis."

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Peter Haynes

GUMSE STDDE1SI CAVE HILL ENCOURAGED

—

10 GET ON BOARD WITH THEIR COIOTS MON

The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together, and a little child shall lead them. Isaiah 11:6 At the Cave Hill, Barbados campus of the University of the West Indies, 40 young Guyanese students, being very patriotic towards their homeland, got together one year ago to form the Guyana Students Associ-

She stressed that Guyana had vast undeveloped land masses and that agriculture would continue to be a major contributor to the economy. She noted that it is a well-es-

ation (GUY-SA) Cave Hill, U.W.I. From its inception, this

tablished fact that for Guyana to

campus has attracted Guyanese, and today holding at

benefit in a significant way from the development of its agriculture sector, there needed to be greater concentration on the development

roughly the level experienced in 1963, when two Guyanese joined the charter student body of 118 full and part-time enrollees. One of the major objectives

administration and other student

of the members of GUY-SA Cave Hill is to identify with each other

groups. Perhaps this is due to the cur-

as a group on the campus, and it could be attributed to their being

rent existence of a critical mass of Guyanese on this campus, because many of the issues that Guyanese

Guyanese that even though few in number, these students have made an impact on the Campus in the

students faced when the campus

group's inaugural year. Rather than categorizing

was created are still challenging the current Guyanese student population — including negative treat-

these young people as forming a chapter of the "Guyana Diaspora" on the campus, and thereby at-

ment by members of the administration. When the campus started in

tributing to them the baggage currently being aired by various

temporary quarters at the Trade Fair Site over 50 years ago, the

expatriate Guyanese groups, we should note that such a label would

Guyanese and students from the Caribbean countries were deemed

also be inappropriate because these students did not "scatter from their

"Rif Raff' by members of the local population, and at that time, the

homeland" or go to Barbados "in search of citizenship or jobs", as essentially the case with the

'foreign' students decided to accept the moniker, generously extending to those Barbadians who

"Guyana America.

associated with them the title of 'Honorable Rif Raff." At the time,

Diaspora"

North

Cave Hill's Guyanese, ever since the establishment of the

the Rif Raff not only provided each other opportunities to social-

Campus in Barbados in 1963, have chosen to study there to enhance

ize but also resolves to be stellar in their performance, and interest-

their education and skills, and

ingly, in the first graduating class

most of them have then returned home to make their contributions to the development of Guyana — an important distinction.

at Cave Hill, a Guyanese was the "Student of the Year", based on academics, and many other Rif Raffs

One of the most commendable aspects of the formation of GUY-SA at Cave Hill is that these students have recognized the need to band together in a patriotic and national manner to deal with issues common to students at Cave Hill.

achieved high academic honors. To mark the first anniversary of GUY-SA, a number of events were staged, including a Motivational Forum, with Guyana's Consul General, Ms. Cita Pilgrim, delivering an address on "opportu-

of new value-added products to boost the current revenue from the primary product, and to develop further agro-processing aspects of the industry. The Consul General further stated that an area in which the Guyana Government had been forging ahead was the development of a green economy: "We have agreements with a number of international partners such as The Netherlands, Norway, and Germany, for assistance in the protection

and

the

sustainable

development of our vast natural resources . "A pivotal arm of the greening process is of course, the sustainable development of renewable sources of energy. Our numerous rivers provide us with enormous potential for hydropower development." She also pointed out that the Guyana Government was keenly aware that measures had been taken to reduce the high level of youth unemployment, which stood at 40%, for both qualified and unqualified young people, and recognized that it must provide an

Ms. CITA PILGRIM Guyana's Consul General to Barbados enabling environment for youth employment and youth entrepreneurship. Thus, the GUY-SA students were of tremendous interest to the government, and to her consulate, who are hoping that they would return home to share the benefits of their education, and not let their mother country continue losing young talent to foreign lands. In closing, Ms. Pilgrim told the Guyanese students that their country was poised for major economic and industrial transformation. "With strong vision, imagination, courage and knowledge, this can happen. I encourage you as future leaders to get on board and make your valuable contributions to the process." GUY-SA has made a start by demonstrating the path that Guyanese who study abroad can follow to truly lead our country's future successes.

The Management and Staff of the New York Edition of the Guyana Chronicle wish all

nities in the Land of Many Wa-

Also noteworthy about the formation of this organization is that no

ters." Ms. Pilgrim reminded the members of GUY-SA that they

our Advertisers and Readers

other group of Guyanese students

were young ambassadors of their country, and that by showcasing

— Good Tidings for this

at Cave Hill has even formed a national association that has been officially recognized as such by the

Guyana's culture they were educating others about their country.

holiday season.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

FFP

spreads

By Shirley Thomas FOOD for the Poor (FFP) Guyana literally brought tears of joy to the eyes of many residents of The Palms, Brickdam, Georgetown, when they hosted their annual Christmas party on Friday. Hosted for the 204-strong geriatric population. it was a warm way of saying thanks to those who have served communities and country at large, in varying capacities in their active years. And for the seniors, it

was a kind of family reunion for many who have come to be like family over the years, but do not regularly meet in any social setting. The party, which coincides with Food-for-thePoor's Silver Jubilee. (25th anniversary), was held in the chapel, where most of the able-bodied and others in wheelchairs gathered, greeted and had lively exchanges with each other. The highlight of the programme was the serving of sumptuous lunches to the seniors who were deeply appreciative and apart from

Christmas his staff, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kent Vincent experienced the novelty of assisting in serving meals. The programme began with prayers, soft, serenading steelpan music and the nostalgic singing of carols to the delight of all present. As a token of appreciation, the seniors were each presented with a gift containing prized personal effects. But even though some were bedridden and could not be taken across to the chapel, they were not altogether isolated, nor were

cheer

they denied the 'Joy of Christmas' on that occasion. since their meals and gifts were presented to them in bed. The welcome and brief remarks were done by Vincent. who said it was a pleasure to be with them once again. He extended Christmas greetings to the seniors gathered, and outlined the motive behind the hosting of the parties. Commenting on FFP's association with The Palms, he said the organisation has reached out to the Palms.

Palms

making donations of furniture. toiletries and detergents for cleaning and any other items that could be of use to them. Meanwhile. FFP Chairman Malcolm Chan-a-Sue. who was unavoidably absent. sent his regards and best wishes to the seniors. Other similar activities in which FFP is engaged within the communities in which they work are: Parties for Angels of Hope, in which they will be taking about 12 groups on outings to Berbice and holding Christmas parties for them.

Also in the new year. FFP will hold parties for children in the areas where they serve, as well as host a party for their staff to show their appreciation for the work they do. "Our staff give ... they work beyond the normal call of duty and so we want to acknowledge this." Vincent said. These are but a few of the many activities Food for the Poor has planned and is working feverishly towards bring joy and excitement to persons with whom they interact. ■v

Seniors partake in a sumptuous meal at their Christmas party at The Palms

Some of the seniors at the FFP party ■ s

Food For the Poor Chief Executive Officer Kent Vincent assists in serving the seniors at The Palms Christmas party on Friday

~ Food For the Poor staff distributing gift bags to residents of The Palms on Friday

CP j

CiS

•* !»v. » \ > Tw,vl* } ■>. " *1W> w.wv*' > \> > > >'r>jyy>Vi m AP f

i J President David Granger showed off his musical talents as he took over the conductor's stick and directed the Guyana Police Force band

Minister of State Joseph Harmon also tried his hand at conducting the band

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

New York

Edition ««« ■««

GUVAMA

The Chronicle can also be read @ http://www.guyanachronicle.coni

United

States

June

World

moved

Cup

due

'^toiVAL

LIMIT EL'

qualifiers

conflict

Llllt AOU ~ ihe tinted States' World Cup qualifiers in June have been moved up slightly hecause of Mexico's participation in the Confederations Cup. The U.S. Soccer Federation said Tuesday that the Americans' home game against Trinidad and Tobago will be played June 8, a day earlier than first scheduled. The

Americans' match at Mexico will be

played June 11, two days ahead of the original date. Mexico plays its Confedera-

cocx*

tions Cup opener against Portugal on June 18 in Kazan, Russia. After the U.S. lost its opening

two games in the final round of the CONCACAF region, coach Jurgen Klinsmann was fired and replaced by Bruce Arena, the U.S. coach from 1998-2006.

The Americans resume qualifying at home against Honduras on March 24, then play four days later at Panama.

—AP

Kevon By Daniel Haynes Despite moving to the United States of America with his family, 16-yearold Kevon Wiggins is still flying the Guyana flag as high as he did when he represented the country at the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) U16 Championships earlier this year. The six-foot combo guard is making a name for himself as a starter on the Evander High School basketball team based in the Bronx. New York. According to Kevon the process to playing was a fairly smooth one. "When I went to school.

Michael Bradley and the U.S. will play two June WC qualifiers a few days early due to conflict with the Confederations Cup.

Wiggins

the basketball coach asked if I played ball because he watched the CBC tournaments and he remembered me." stated Kevon. From there it was just about making the team and solidifying himself as a premier player. So far the prolific player has done so. He is one of two sophomores on a team filled with seniors. Wiggins has played in seven games under Head Coach David Fonfa and has scored 99 total points with 24 two-pointers and 15 three pointers in the seven- game stretch. Wiggins is also averaging 14.14 points and 2.43 rebounds during the period. Turn to page 31 ^

still

lights

out!

UVhiw cv GUYDNA A' H

GUVflNfi iiYPtJ *

GUYAN''

•I *

i (L-R kneeling) Kevon Wiggins with rest of € ^ team Guyana at CBC games 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending December 23, 2016

Scholarship

excel By Tamica Garnett

awardee

Gavin

Lewis

continues

NOT much has been heard of young tennis player Gavin Lewis since he migrated to the United States of America (USA) to study on a tennis scholarship at the Coppin State University. During that time, however. the 20-year-old has been shining both academically and athletically. This coming January will mark two years since Gavin left Guyana, and while there have been few reports on just how he's been doing since he left, it has been quite an interesting and accomplished two years for him. Gavin was awarded Most Valuable Player on the team, the Coppin's Eagles, and a spot on the college's Dean's List after finishing his first year with a 3.5 GPA. He is considered one of Coppin's leading men's tennis student-athlete, crowning his 2016 season with a highly regarded doubles win against

academics and athletics in the USA scholarship, and this really "My first year was pretments when he was perform- challenge himself. ing in tournament's locally But it was not all fun for shook him up. He really had ty good. I didn't expect to - the very reason he caught him when he first arrived. to push through his emotional do as well as I did, given the the eye of overseas-based Gavin's dad had passed away pains to put his best foot for- situation I was in when I left for college," Gavin said. Guyanese. Coppin State head just prior to his leaving for his ward for his new school. coach Diwani Lewis. He was Guyana's number one junior seed when he was given the scholarship in Kevon Wiggins is... From page 30 2014. He had also performed remarkably in the senior tourFor Wiggins the experibeing Guyana's primary naments. ence has been a good one to threat from behind the threeSo outstanding was his this point, despite his new point line. performance back then that He is currently doing Diwani had been eyeing surroundings. "It's been computer studies at his high Gavin for a scholarship even good, but it's harder than school and says the last before he was old enough when I was back home. thing on his mind right now But that's also good for me to access one. So once he Guyana's Gavin Lewis is girls. was old enough it was only because when I return to "I'm not studying girls a matter of formality to get Guyana next year I expect [ Howard University in the him into the school's sports the games to be easier." right now. I'm still a sophMid-Eastem Athletic Confer- programme. He also stated that in omore in school and I have ence (ME AC). to wait till my senior year to At Coppin. Gavin is the short span of time since He was one of only three studying for a Bachelor's being a part of Evander his start being recraited by uniplayers from his school Degree in Criminal Justice game has improved draversities so that's my focus." named as part of the (MEAC) and Journalism. Being a part matically. "Everything has he finished. Tennis All-Academic team, of Coppin has afforded him improved, especially my With his laser like fowhich recognises student-ath- several opportunities to im- ability to jump. I can dunk cus, killer mentality on the letes with a 3.0 or better cu- prove his skills. now. my shooting is much court and drive, Wiggins mulative grade point average. Kevon Wiggins Coppin is continuously better and my basketball IQ is making Guyana proud Gavin's performance in involved in matches throughis still rising." he stated. and paving the way for the USA marks a continuation out the season which gives from behind the arc during more Guyanese basketball The 'young gun' was alof his top end accomplish- him a lot of time to play and ready as deadly as they came the CBC Championships players.

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