Guyana Chronicle New York Edition E-Paper 17 06 2016

No. 104560

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MONDAY, MAY 23, 2016

JUNE 17, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Too slow, says Region 10

Page 2

Big ganja bust

Page 20

Investment Confab draws big guns

Page 15

Things looking up for Albouystown Page 13

Venezuela denies attacks on GGMC officers Page 5

A section of the massive crowd at the Guyana Golden Jubilee parade In New York (pic by Oswald Bobb)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Too slow, says Region 10 By Vanessa Braithwaite

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RIVATE investors and companies who have shown interest in establishing companies and businesses in Region 10 are calling for an end to the slothful process involved in the start-up of operations. They have taken their cries to administrative officials who are calling upon the entities responsible to have the processes expedited as Region 10 was in dire need of investment opportunities. According to the Region’s chairman, Renis Morian, a number of the investors have already passed through Ministries such as the Ministry of the Presidency, Ministry of Business and Ministry of Communities and have received confirmation but the process remains dormant as the documents are resting at the Ministry of Finance for

duty free concessions amongst other things. “I’m appealing to the Minister of Finance and the officers responsible for this situation. In Region 10 we want this to be fast-tracked, we don’t want people coming to Guyana for investment and they are going through a whole lot of bureaucracy holding up the process. The residents of region 10 are ready and we are waiting for these investments,” posited Morian. The National Industrial and Commercial Investment LTD has also received some blame for slowing up the process and investors requesting land to establish their businesses are claiming that they are being pushed around. One investor, who since 2013 has expressed interest in establishing the franchise of Burger King in Linden, has not yet been granted land according to Morian. Once the business is established, 30 Lindeners should be in its employ.

Regional Chairman Morian rubbishes this allegation stating that all lands belong to the Government. “All lands belong to the Government and people of Guyana and if persons come to Region 10 to invest, we at the level of the RDC will give them with no objection,” he said. It is the view that investments could yield economic results and provide employment for the residents of Region 10. Among the several persons who have shown interest and have commenced the process of doing so are a television assembling facility, a modern hotel complex, and a trucking facility. The RDC is also exploring the possibility a 20 million-dollar agro sector investment to plant, process and market products. In Kwakwani an overseas-based Guyanese has expressed interest in investing in a tourism venture,

which will see yachting services being offered at the Kwakwani waterfront. Once all goes well, it would provide employment for 30 persons from within the region. The Regional officials are anticipating the fortunes that these investments will bring to Region 10 as the unemployment rate is on average 70%. President Granger recently charged the diaspora during the jubilee celebrations in New York to return home and invest as Guyana can no longer afford to sustain itself by the use of the ‘six sisters’. He said rice, sugar, bauxite, gold, timber and fish are not sufficient during this era to move the economy to where it ought to be. “We need not be poor again,” the President said. “It is better to have Guyanese companies. You can invest and prosper as readily as foreigners. You are family, please,” he told the attendees of the State dinner.

Guyanese shot dead in Venezuela … father collapses, dies shortly after By Neil Marks A VERGENOEGEN, East Bank Essequibo man was shot dead by suspected bandits Thursday at his family’s home in Puerta Ordaz, Venezuela; his father, who witnessed the act, collapsed and died of a heart attack

shortly after, relatives said. Dead is Miguel Alejandro Brito, 23 and Artuo Brito, 60. “They had black out and Mom was in her room; dad was somewhere in the house and brother was in the living room [when] the thief went in,” Dhanwantie,

Miguel’s Brito sister said. “The [electricity] came on and they must have seen my brother first and they shot him in his head. “My father run to the living room and see my brother on the floor with his brains out and he screamed for Mom and when she reached the living room,

dad dropped on the floor. “She rush to Dad to help him up but when she turned him over [he was dead],” she related. The younger Brito was born in Guyana but was a citizen of Venezuela. His father, a Venezuelan, was also a naturalised Guyanese. The family resided at Vergenoegen but migrated to Venezuela some years ago.

Dead: Artuo Brito

Dead: Miguel Alejandro Brito

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

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US Military Liaison Officer makes timely Suicide Literature Donation to the GDF

THE United States Embassy, through its Military Liaison Officer Captain Christopher Hill on Wednesday 16-06-15 donated a collection of useful literature addressing Suicide Prevention in the Military. The donation comes on the heels of a Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) which the Florida Army National Guard conducted with personnel of the Guyana Defence Force on March 7, 8 and 9, 2016. Those sessions were aimed at helping the Guyana Defence Force to develop a tactical programme that applies to military operations, concerning suicide prevention and Force resilience. The Material which was handed over today includes Training Standards, Leaders’ Guide to Suicide Prevention and a number of pamphlets and information on Warning Signs and Risk Factors of Suicide. Captain Hill, during the simple handing over ceremony this morning explained that the gesture stems from the SMEE which was designed out of a desire to assist the GDF in dealing with the issue of Suicide, which has become a social ill in the society. “So during that training there was a lot of new material and suicide is a big issue and we wanted to expand on what was learnt during those sessions,” he stated. He pointed out that assisting in building suicide prevention capacity in Guyana is a priority of the current United States Ambassador, Perry Holloway. “So the Ambassador intends to do as much as possible to aid in suicide prevention”. Force Welfare Officer, Captain Deon Heyligar who accepted the material on behalf of the GDF, expressed appreciation for the timely gesture and pointed to the importance of the information received. “This information will go a far way in helping us to boost the knowledge of our soldiers,” she stated. She acknowledged the good relationship between the US and GDF particularly as it relates to information sharing from a welfare perspective. A few soldiers were on hand for the handing over and Lance Corporal Andel Douglas registered his eagerness to read and learn from the information which he believes will empower him to recognize certain tendencies and be able to render assistance from his level. The Guyana Defence Force Effective Suicide Prevention requires everyone in the Unit to be aware of the risk factors for Suicide and know how to respond; Commanders, Non Commissioned Officers and Supervisors all play an integral part in this regard.

Soldiers interacting with the new information

Welfare officer Deon Heyligar receives the donation from Capt Hill Looking on is Asst. Force chaplain George Jeffers and members of the welfare department while soldiers display some of the materials

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Broomes on warpath against TIP IN an effort to stop Trafficking in Persons (TIP) in Guyana’s hinterland regions, Government is taking strict measures to ensure that children are kept out of mining and logging areas. Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes, on Tuesday said that no one should enter a mining district without producing a privilege at the various ports of entry. The minister was speaking to officers within the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and rangers from the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) at a TIP workshop to train officers. “Anyone entering into a mining district is supposed to present what you call a privilege. The days are gone when men and women will traverse the sector and say ‘this is my neighbour daughter,’ ‘this is my daughter,’ ‘this is my niece’ or ‘this is my cousin’.” She told the officers if a privilege cannot be produced for an individual, then they must “hold the regulation” and refuse them entry into the district. “One of the first things that we will address is the recklessness in shops throughout the mining sector. We will address that, because the more remote is the loca-

tion, is the more vulnerable people out there.” The minister said of the four pillars in TIP -- protection, prevention, partnership, prosecution -- the two agencies must make “prevention and partnership” the two

age of 18. You cannot leave a 15-year, a 14-year, a 13-yearold to die!” Broomes said though some human-trafficking victims are still alive, it takes God’s intervention for their lives to return to normalcy.

Minister Simona Broomes addresses the gathering at the TIP training workshop (Photo by Samuel Maughn) fundamentals in the execution of their duties. “You know why I know that you can deal with prevention? It is because within the same regulation and the same act that governs the sector, it makes provision… In the Human Trafficking Act of 2005, it says clearly, “any child”, meaning below the

“I wanna tell you, a victim of trafficking in persons can never, ever, ever, ever find their way again, except with God himself. They wake up today happy, and tomorrow they’re sad. When the phone rings - “Mommy (That’s what they call her), I know that nothing good cyan come, I try everything you

tell me. I try but I is no good! Is best I dead! Mommy you don’t know wha you talking, you only telling people, this is me!” The minister said she has received 82 such stories and hundreds of calls, and though she has her own children, she still has to offer hope to the helpless. “Either I have to reach where they are in the morning at 03:00 hrs, I have to post money, I have to send a driver, I have to say take a taxi and bring them right away. But I have to respond!” The minister recalled doing it her own way since the Government of the past was in denial that TIP is prevalent in Guyana and pushed her around many times. She said the APNU+AFC Government is determined to eliminate TIP. “You have a Government who is not denying trafficking in persons, but we are going to confront slavery in Guyana. In our interior, in our hinterland, we are going to fight that crime!” While Government does not expect the officers to do a policeman’s job, and her ministry does not directly have responsibility for TIP, she said, “Every ministry has a responsibility… we will do our bit.”

Minister Broomes assured the officers that Government will address the challenges they face in the fields, as the various ministries collaborate to make things better. She referred to the terrible state of the Konawaruk Bridge, and added: “These conditions that the officers are faced with out there, we’re gonna change them,

we’re gonna change it together.” She urged the officers to be on the lookout for the vulnerable and do what they can to rescue victims of trafficking in persons. “Why are you seeing them and leave them? Why? You can do something!” Minister Broomes told the officers.

Govt salutes memory of Enmore Martyrs GOVERNMENT has joined with all Guyanese, in particular, the workers in the sugar industry in remembering the sacrifice of the heroic Enmore Martyrs whose lives were taken in the struggle for better working conditions. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo observed that, “June 16th 2016 is another milestone in a very long journey when we remember the Enmore Martyrs – Lallabajee, Harry, Surujbally, Rambarran and Pooran – because their lives were cut down as they pursued a noble cause.” Prime Minister Nagamootoo added, “in 1948 that cause was for better working conditions in the sugar industry and for the recognition of a trade union of the workers’ choice.” From slavery and indentureship through nationalization much sacrifice was made in the sugar industry, which today faces complex problems. In remembering the sacrifices of the Enmore Martyrs the Coalition Government urges all sugar workers, management and unions to work together to find viable solutions. The sugar industry has faced severe challenges, and by 2014 had been brought to a state of severe indebtedness. The new Coalition Government has sought to rescue the industry from the years of mismanagement and rising cost of production while since taking office, it has subsidized the industry in the amount of $21Billion. The new administration is committed to the diversification of the sugar industry to prevent its collapse. In this regard, the Coalition Government recognises the sacrifice of those who have worked and are working in the industry, making their contribution towards national development. On this occasion, when we remember and honour the memory of the Enmore Martyrs, we embrace their descendants as we recognise the ultimate sacrifice which was made by these five fearless sugar workers, whose names are indelibly etched into the history of our beloved nation’s struggle for human rights, justice and respect. The Coalition Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana salutes the Enmore Martyrs for their selfless and monumental sacrifice which transcends all divisions in our society and which serves as a platform for unity in the struggle for a better and more cohesive Guyana.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Business, energy schools for UG By Ariana Gordon in New York NEW Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG) Dr Ivelaw Griffith has announced that feasibility studies will be conducted in September for the establishment of schools of business and energy and mines. “Guyana needs a business school. You will invest in that; we’d need scholarships… you’d have an opportunity to name the school, we’d be establishing later on a school of energy and mines. We cannot be a nation thinking about oil and don’t have a university, an enterprise of trainers, researchers,” he announced, while addressing the ‘Guyana means business’ Investment Conference held at the Harvard Club of New York. The vice-chancellor urged the gathering of investors and potential investors to not only invest in the economy, but in education, pointing out that without an educated workforce the economy would not thrive. The vice-chancellor said too that he will embrace the business sector for he believes that partnerships with investors will see the ultimate development of the University of Guyana. He disclosed that Private Sector Commission member Gerry Gouveia and Chairman of Go-Invest Patricia Bacchus are founding co-chairs of a Business and Civic Engagement Council. An additional Co-Chair from the Berbice area has been identified. “We have got as a university to have a strong nexus with the Vice-Chancellor of the economic and social University of Guyana pursuits. Not only en- (UG), Dr Ivelaw Griffith gagements with the council that Patricia, Gerry and the other co-chairs will lead, it is what I sense would be important economic and educational ventures that you have an opportunity to invest in.” The UG Vice-Chancellor, who is returning to Guyana after 35 years of being in the United States, said he has a bold vision for the University of Guyana and will work hand in hand with stakeholders to have that vision realised. Quoting renowned boxer Muhammad Ali, he described investors as “Champions.” “Champions called investors; being here by itself demonstrates that you’ve got will. Being here demonstrates that you’ve been invited because you’ve shown skill, being here suggests that you’ve got vision and I want you to be commended for taking either the first leap of faith or a potential leap of faith. You are champions! Your championship relates to our country’s economic development, but I want to suggest to us all… second ‘E’ word that is critical to your investment, education.” According to Dr Griffith, investors must think of developing the education system in Guyana and as such must demonstrate confidence in the educational enterprise as much as they will demonstrate confidence in the economy. “Think of UG,” said Dr Griffith as he pleaded with investors to pour their support behind the country’s premier tertiary institution. Investors, Dr Griffith stressed, are made from a dream, vision, the skill and the will. “You have both,” he said, noting that nothing prevents investors from supporting the vision of building a greater University. Last month, Dr Griffith made it clear that UG needs more assistance than the government of Guyana can provide. The new vice-chancellor has since drafted a 12-point plan aimed at building a wider portfolio of resources for the university. He believes there is a great need to find enterprising ways to achieve specific targets. Dr Griffith, who served as the 9th President of Forth Valley State University in Georgia, was appointed UG’s 10th vice- chancellor and will assume office from June 14. He was the first UG student to graduate with distinction in Political Science in 1980. The new vice-chancellor replaces Professor Jacob Opadeyi and will work along with Chancellor, Professor Eon Nigel Harris.

Venezuela denies attacks on GGMC officers

THE Venezuelan government, through its embassy in Georgetown, has denied claims that military officers from the Spanish-speaking country opened fire on officials of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). “The Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela firmly rejects the information reported on Tuesday, May 31st, 2016… that Venezuelan soldiers attacked officials of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, who were travelling in a boat in the Cuyuni River, Eteringbang area,” a release from the embassy noted Friday. Recently, acting GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison had recounted to the media a report made by the officers who were shot at while conducting a routine monitoring and compliance mission in the vicinity of Eteringbang in the Cuyuni area. Reports reaching this publication suggested that a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officer had visited the Venezuelan outpost the following day in the area where the incident occurred. The report suggested Venezuelan officers had taken responsibility for firing shots into the air after suspecting the GGMC officials to be smugglers. Further reports suggested that Venezuela had ordered an investigation into the matter and according to the release from the Venezuelan Embassy, the investigation found that there were no exercises in the area by its military. “This news report lacks validity, since the Venezuelan military forces have not been involved in any incident, as has been falsely reported,

let alone confirm the occurrence of violent acts in the mentioned zone, as has been informed,” the release continued. Commander-in-Chief of Guyana’s armed forces, President David Granger, recently returned from a summit in Cuba, where he shared the space with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. When asked on his ‘Public Interest’ programme whether there had been any dialogue on the matter between him and his Venezuelan counterpart, the President responded in the negative. Mr Granger said Guyana is not satisfied “that the matter is closed as yet, but it does not seem likely that it will lead to some international conflict.” The President spared no bones condemning the event in its entirety. “My information is that the rain was falling heavily. There might have been some misunderstanding about the boat that was actually taking the officials, but it is unacceptable in the relations between two States on a river that is owned by Guyana,” Mr Granger said. Mr Granger confirmed the complaint made by this country to Venezuela, but said there was no response to that complaint. He maintained also that while the issue was not to be seen as a “clash between the two republics”, it is not to say that there was no blame to be had. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan embassy in Georgetown has said, “The investigations carried out by the Venezuelan military authorities have not reported of any incident in the

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above-mentioned area and our military units confirm not having carried [out] any military exercise in that location.” Venezuelan authorities are calling on the Guyana media to “verify all their sources of information and stop echoing the international media campaign against Venezuela.” This incident is not an isolated one, but forms part of broader relations between Guyana and its Spanish neighbour. Immediately following the change of administration in 2015, Venezuela’s President had issued a decree extending claims to Guyana’s maritime space, inclusive of the Stabroek bloc, where ExxonMobil has discovered oil. That decree renewed a century-old claim of Guyana’s Spanish-speaking neighbour to land and sea space owned by Guyana which was supported by the decision of an international tribunal in the late 1800s. Venezuela has time and time again renewed its challenge to the arbitral award, which it had initially supported, and even aided in the demarcation of the border between Guyana and its Spanish-speaking neighbour. Guyana has made it clear that the Good Offices process of mediating the border controversy between the two countries, which began in the 1960s, has run its course. The next best option, according to Guyana’s Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge some time ago, is a juridical settlement by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with the assistance of the United Nations (UN).

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

Bridging the divide

LAST week Guyanese in the United States of America celebrated Guyana’s 50th independence anniversary. In New Jersey there was a flag-raising event. And in New York there was a dinner where President David Granger was the Guest of Honour, followed next day by a street parade and cultural event in Brooklyn. These events being observed and celebrated in the Diaspora exemplified the spirit of togetherness that Guyanese will not allow distance to prevent. The representation by Government officials and business interests in the hosting seminars and like events where groups were able to interface on the development of Guyana augur well. In a global environment, where events and business make use of technology, it was heartening to follow the business conference hosted by the Guyana-America Investment (GAIN) group. The Guyana Chronicle had a reporter who gave coverage to this event, which allowed Guyanese at home to follow what their counterparts are doing in the USA. With high unemployment in Guyana, business ventures are welcomed, given the potential they bring to strengthening existing markets or creating new ones. At the economic level, such creates potential for employment, direct and indirect, and additional entrepreneurship. Recognising that crime is considered a dis-incentive for investment, the presence of Vice-President and Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan at the conference allowed the Government to articulate its policy position on security. These types of rapport in real time aid in the building of confidence among government, investors, citizens, and concerned groups/individuals. Guyanese at home look forward to their overseas-based counterparts re-investing in the society. Overseas-based Guyanese re-investing in the society brings with it a multiplicity of factors, such as cross-training and sharing of experiences, best practices, making the environment more competitive, which can impact choice, prices and jobs, and also the incentive of the proverbial teaching a person how to fish rather than feed them fishes. Self-sufficiency augurs well for dignity and individual development. While political independence brought freedom from control by another nation, challenges in the society in arriving at a place of independence in the economic realm still remain. To some extent, Guyana still has ways to go in economic self-sufficiency, though it should be said that Guyanese have been innovative and ventured out creating their own businesses and niche markets. Thus it is with anticipation that that the society looks forward to the various business events, programmes proposals, policy positions and commitment that were part of the 50th celebration that they be materialised. Guyana is a land with vast resources, human and natural, what she awaits is the support of her sons and daughters to make her what she can be.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Motive behind Kaieteur News grenade attack was to instill fear ––Intellectual author still to be determined By Rabindra Rooplall THE motive behind a grenade thrown outside the office of Kaieteur News on Saffon Street, Charlestown two Saturdays ago was to drive and instill fear, Acting Commissioner, David Ramnarine said on Wednesday. Three men were charged with the attack Wednesday (see story below). At his Police Headquarters, Eve Leary of-

cally contemplated on the June 2, developed on the 3rd, and executed in the night of the 4th; it’s unfortunate that thus far we have not been able to zero in on the intellectual authors of this heinous crime,” he explained. Taking due cognizance of the various levels and degrees of concerns of society, government, business community and from members of the diplomatic corps., the acting Commissioner said many calls were made to the po-

contributions of persons with various levels and degrees of expertise, who worked diligently with the police force behind the scenes, Ramnarine said the advice aided investigators and their roles were invaluable and their names will obviously remain unknown. Adding that there were impatience and a host of questions towards the Guyana Police Force (GPF), he thanked those who offered support, it was in training, equip-

“They weren’t concerned whether there was damage, hurt or injury to the person, cause of physical damage, but in essence, to drive fear.” - David Ramnarine, Acting Police Commissioner

fice, the acting Commissioner described the act as a cowardly and dastardly one perpetrated by criminal elements. The investigators deduced, based on statements that the motive was to drive fear. He noted that this is not the end of the investigation as there is a wanted bulletin out and there are more persons of interest that investigators are pursuing. “They weren’t concerned about whether there was damage, hurt or injury to the person, cause of physical damage, but in essence, to drive fear. “As we understand, this plan that was basi-

lice force and there were expressions of doubt as to whether or not the police were capable of solving the matter. He said the investigation epitomizes consciousness, diligence and resilience of criminal investigators. “Time and again we have been criticized for only going after certain type of crimes and being unable to solve other crimes and a whole host of things….there is a very high and effective degree of collaboration between investigators in ‘A’ Division, Brickdam and CID headquarters…,” he said. Acknowledging the

ment, or technology. He said the police force is on the road to making the kind of progress to ensure citizens can feel comfortable. “We can’t solve all the crimes since we don’t know what’s in a person’s mind... what matters is the response and bringing perpetrators to justice that would really bring a high measure of satisfaction to the people whom it matters most to,” he explained. Expressing gratitude to the ABC countries and Russia, China, Italy and a host of other countries, the acting Commissioner said sponsored training

Acting Commissioner David Ramnarine from these countries is paying off in much needed dividends for the police force. He said in 2013 the public trust in the police force was very low. However, presently the amount of support and trust given to the force have changed that perception. He also indicated that he is satisfied with the investigation and it is left up to the judiciary and prosecution to execute their duties. “This is not a simple matter and work is continuing, we will and are working diligently to bring the other persons on the run to justice.” Meanwhile, Ramnarine expressed condolences on the passing of Kaieteur News Assistant Editor Dale Andrews, whom he described as a “friend; a confidant.”

More Chinese doctors

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

President David Granger observes as First Lady Sandra Granger greets the Head of the Chinese Medical Brigade, Dr Wang Yongxiang

12th Medical Brigade arrives SIXTEEN Chinese medical doctors have arrived in Guyana to continue a programme started 23 years ago. The doctors were welcomed last evening at a function to also celebrate the 11th Chinese Medical Brigade which treated 41,000 Guyanese. The new batch of doctors will be dispatched to the Georgetown Public Hospital and the Linden Hospital Complex. At the Chinese Embassy reception, President David Granger applauded the contributions made by the People’s Republic of China particularly in the area of health. “The relationship between our two republics has flourished on many fronts since formal diplomatic relations were established on 27th June 1972. Cooperation in the health sector has been a distinguishing feature of human relations which emphasise the formal engagement between our two republics and, most

particularly, the personal and everyday friendship between our two peoples,” the President said. He added that the continued partnership in the field of health has fostered the development of a healthy population and as a result has contributed to the wealth of the nation. “The Medical Team, in the ensuing years made a significant contribution to the Guyanese health sector. The teams have combined the efforts and expertise of more than 160 Chinese medical experts. They have specialised in the fields of acupuncture, anaesthetics, gynaecology, nephrology, oncology, ophthalmology, pathology, radiology, urology, obstetrics, paediatrics, general surgery, plastic surgery and osteopathy,” President Granger told those present. “Thousands of our Guyanese have benefited from the expertise of these specialists and from the equip-

ment which was donated under the programme. Guyanese are extremely grateful for the work and contributions of the Chinese Medical Team,” he added. In offering his gratitude on behalf of the people of Guyana, President Granger said his country values its relations with China and looks forward to expanding and deepening the ties of cooperation. The President delivered the feature address in the presence of China’s Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin and his wife Liu Yue; Head of the Medical Brigade, Dr. Wang Yongxiang; Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Minister of State Joseph Harmon and Finance Minister Winston Jordan, among other dignitaries. The Head of the Chinese Medical Brigade said he has been touched by the hospitality of the people of Guyana. “I was deeply touched first time when

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I saw the politeness and patience on the face of patients waiting at the clinic,” Yongxiang said as he reflected on his first outreach. In June 2014, Yongxiang arrived in Guyana with the 11th Chinese Medical Brigade to complement the doctors here. According to him, the Public Health Ministry, Georgetown Public Hospital and the Linden Hospital Complex have been nothing but helpful. However, he underscored the need for more medical facilities. “In the meantime, we truly feel the people of Guyana need more medical facilities and more advanced medical service.” Nevertheless, he said the 11th Chinese Medical Brigade was more than grateful to treat the 41,000

patients it attended to during the two-year stint.. “Under the leadership of the Chinese embassy in Guyana, our medical team has carried out a lot of work. The 11th Chinese Medical Team has treated 41,000 patients, giving emergency treatment to 3000 patients who were critically ill and performed 6000 surgeries,” he explained. He said now that the 12th batch has arrived, he anticipates that more medical outreaches will be conducted. The first Chinese Medical Brigade arrived in Guyana in 1993 following the establishment of a Medical Cooperation Agreement between the Governments of the Republics of Guyana and China on May 26, 1993.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Venezuela counting on Guyana’s oil reserves

Dear Editor, THE Governor of one of Venezuela’s most populous states plus a panel of Venezuelan economists and journalists are of the view that a government of national unity is the best option for arresting the rapid decline of the economy and the social degradation currently confronting that country. With inflation at 20 per cent per month, these Venezuelan experts are worried that the present crisis would get worse with hyper-inflation, which would see inflation being at over 30 per cent per month. And what is the trump card of a national unity government for stabilizing the economy and eventually turning it around? OIL! Including reserves in Guyana’s territory and maritime space, which one panellist told me “could be jointly exploited for the mutual benefit of both countries.” Of course he and the others maintain the validity of their country’s claim, but

this one panellist, economist Francisco Rodriguez, co-author of the book “Venezuela before Chavez”, told me, “Whenever oil is involved, the parties will be insistent on their respective positions; but I think we could find a peaceful and mutually beneficial approach, like Venezuela sharing in the exploitation of those reserves.” Governor Henri Falcon of the State of Lara and a panel of experts, including Rodriguez, Orlando Ochoa of the Andres Bello Catholic University, Caracas; and Francisco Toro, executive editor of Caracas Chronicles, were the main speakers on Thursday evening at a forum hosted by the Americas Society/ Council of the Americas in New York City. According to Governor Falcon, the situation in Venezuela is getting worse daily…rapidly collapsing domestic production; chronic shortages of food and medicines; rising unemployment; malnutrition, especially among infants;

Edgar Henry presents

looting and more. The panel agreed that Venezuela needs an injection of about $50 billion (US) over the next 48 months, which could come from a combination of sources, including the local private sector and international institutions such as the IMF, but certain sections of the political landscape in Venezuela would have objections to the IMF’s involvement in the economy. The panel also agreed that three current levels of engagement with China would have to be revisited, particularly the Oil Fund. These experts are of the view that Venezuela’s situation is different from that of many countries. “We have significant oil reserves, which we must leverage” to turn around the current situation, they concluded. Now, there is no doubt that Venezuela is counting Guyana’s oil among its reserves, and that these reserves will be key to that country’s negotiations and efforts to stabilise and turn around the

economy. The panel agreed that Venezuela has good relations with all the important oil companies globally, except two, and that the relationship with these two can be reignited with the right approach, which would be expected of a government of national unity. So what does this mean for Guyana’s efforts to pursue our oil exploitation and for the preferred process of a juridical settlement of the Venezuelan claim? My initial thinking is that the current Maduro regime and subsequent Venezuelan governments will not subscribe to a juridical settlement of its claim, which if pursued is most likely to uphold the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and rule in Guyana’s favour. Guyana has a lot of work to do as it looks for a lasting solution to this controversy. Regards, WESLEY KIRTON

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Mega Aruwai Plaza

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

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- Revolving restaurant, 50-room hotel soon

- To employ 200 persons PROMINENT businessman Chunilall Baboolall has put September 2017 as the opening date for the Aruwai Plaza on Sheriff Street, Georgetown, revealing that it will include a revolving restaurant and a 50-room hotel. The building, opposite Royal Castle, has been under construction for years, but Baboolall said that the construction is in its final stages and would be completed for opening next September. Baboolall six months ago wowed Guyana with the opening of the state of the art Aruwai Resort: White H2O resort off Bartica. He was speaking at the opening of the resort’s Georgetown Office when he

revealed plans for Aruwai Plaza. Apart from the revolving restaurant and hotel, he said the property will feature another restaurant, along with a supermarket, a line of clothing, and other amenities. Baboolall said Aruwai Plaza will employ some 200 persons and will target the local community, the diaspora and tourists in general. The Georgetown office of the resort was opened at 49-52 Sheriff street, where the Plaza is under construction. Since its opening six months ago, the Aruwai Resort has been highly regarded. The resort boasts 50 rooms and has luxuries and is seen as a trend-setter in the

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A model of the Aruwai Plaza which will be opened next September Guyanese tourism market as well as the wider Caribbean. Bookings and payments for stay at the resort were previously made at the resort itself; however the marketing team stat-

ed that the Georgetown office will now make it possible for visitors to make their bookings and gain information on the resort’s special deals and packages.

The team gave the reassurance that all special deals (such as the ongoing Father’s Day package) available at the resort could be accessed at the Georgetown office.

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Chunilall Baboolall, left, joins in cutting the ribbon to mark the opening of the Aruwai Resort’s Georgetown Office

10

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

‘It’s huge!’- Watson on CPL Florida leg

ST. Lucia Zouks-bound all-rounder Shane Watson says that he’s determined to start the latest chapter in his career on a high as excitement for the HeroCaribbean Premier League (CPL) builds across the Caribbean and beyond. The Australia star recently drew the curtains on an illustrious international career, distinguishing himself as one of the great all-round talents of the modern era. With the bat across all three formats the Queenslander scored 3,731 Test runs in 58 Test matches (including four centuries at an average of 35.19), 5,757 runs in 190 One-Day Internationals (averaging 40.54) and 1,462 runs in 58 Twenty20 internationals (at 29.24). While with the ball, the fast-medium bowler claimed 75 Test wickets, 168 ODI victims and 48

T20 wickets. Watson, who departed the international arena with Australia at the top of the ICC’s T20 all-rounder rankings following the recent ICC World T20 in India, joins a squad brimming with talent and promise. In addition to Captain Darren Sammy, another local favourite in Johnson Charles and Andre Fletcher – who all featured in West Indies’ World T20 success – the squad includes a host of rising domestic talent as well as South African duo David Miller and Morne Morkel. And there’s a familiar face in fellow Australian stalwart Mike Hussey, another CPL debutant, in the Zouks squad. Speaking on the tournament moving to the United States, he said, “Think this is a great opportunity, not just for CPL but for the game of cricket international-

ly. It’s huge, if I’m honest. He continued, “Every single player I’ve spoken to about CPL is raving about being part of this new departure and if we can get a good level of support there this year, hopefully the popularity of the game will just grow and grow. It’s a privilege to be a part of something new on the horizon.” In an exclusive interview with www. cplt20.com on the eve of his 35th birthday tomorrow, Watson outlined his hopes and ambitions for the forthcoming campaign and shared a fascinating insight on the Zouks squad and how there’s plenty of fight in the old dog yet. “There’s no doubt that this year’s CPL is going to be fiercely competitive. There are world-class players playing in the tournament which immediately puts

a jolt of excitement in you, even before a ball is bowled and I’m hungrier than ever to try and bring some success to the Zouks,” he said. He added, “I’ve heard a lot about the carnival atmosphere at CPL games and it will be a thrill to step out there on the Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium.” The 2016 HERO Caribbean Premier League (CPL) campaign will break new ground on Thursday, 28 July when Guyana Amazon Warriors faces the Barbados Tridents in a night game (starting at 7pm) in Central Broward Stadium, Fort Lauderdale. All six teams in the franchise competition will be on show at the 10,000 capacity stadium across four days of action from July 28-31

LOWON S SEARES FA ONE WAY: 199.00 + Taxes

RETURN: 408.00 + Taxes

232.00 465.00

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

11

On T he Lighterside

Ease The Tension — Have a Laugh

Mopped Floor TWO policemen Constable Ken called in to make a report on the radio station to Constable Bob. “Hello. Is this the Sarge?” “Yes?” “We have a homicide here. A woman has shot her husband dead for stepping on the floor she had just mopped.” “Have you arrested the woman?” “No sir. The floor is still wet.”

‘4 Worms In Church’

FOUR worms and a lesson to be learned!!!! A minister decided that a visual demonstration would add emphasis to his Sunday sermon. Four worms were placed into four separate jars. The first worm was put into a container of alcohol. The second worm was put into a container of cigarette smoke. The third worm was put into a container of chocolate syrup. The fourth worm was put into a container of good clean soil. In the middle of the sermon, the Minister reported the following results: The first worm in alcohol . . . . . . Dead The second worm in cigarette smoke . . .Dead . Third worm in chocolate syrup . . . . Dead. Fourth worm in good clean soil . . .Alive … So the Minister asked the congregation, “What did you learn from this demonstration?” Maxine was sitting in the back, quickly raised her hand and said . . . “As long as you drink, smoke and eat chocolate, you won’t have worms!” That pretty much ended the service!

Happy Father’s Day To All You Wonderful Dads

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

The Venezuelan crisis: Help from neighbours By Odeen Ishmael MUCH has already been said about the political, economic, financial and social crisis engulfing Venezuela. Despite having one of the world’s largest oil reserves, the country has been in crisis since the onset of the decline in oil prices on the world market. The most pressing impact is the severe shortage of consumer goods, particularly food items and medicine, in all parts of the country. Added to this are the escalating violent crime rates, economic recession, hoarding by some big merchants, looting, power-cuts and water rationing. The contraband trade in consumer items is rampant and the black-marketing of these goods has pushed prices to skyrocketing levels—a situation compounded by currency controls, an inflation rate of over 700 percent, and the steadily rising “informal” exchange rate of the US dollar and other foreign currencies. Prices are routinely determined by this informal exchange rate and they continue to rise since the currency has declined drastically in the past month to 1,000 bolivars per dollar. The government currently maintains three official rates of 6.3, 13.5 and about 200 bolivars per dollar for authorized purchases of “essential” items. The Guyanese enclaves In the eastern states of Bolivar and Delta Amacuro, many among the thousands of Guyanese migrants who settled there during the Guyanese economic crisis of the 1980s, currently face intense suffering and some are contemplating returning to Guyana. While food items to that region are smuggled in through Brazil and Guyana across the porous borders, residents complain that members of the Venezuelan National Guard routinely seize most of these goods unless they are paid off by the smugglers. Map showing the location of Puerto Ordaz Guyanese nationals in the municipalities of San Felix and Puerto Ordaz (in the city of Ciudad Guayana) say that their regular diet is sardines, ground provisions and vegetables. Many of them, like those in Delta Amacuro, maintain kitchen gardens and rear poultry and therefore do have some additional food resources on which to subsist. Generally, there is a shortage of supply of food items—a situation which has jacked up prices by more than 400 percent since January on unsubsidized items in supermarkets. At the same time, due to this scarcity, black-market items available in local markets may be obtained at 10 to 15 times more than their normal price. Interestingly, the government does not admit that there is a shortage of consumer goods and, therefore, does not welcome humanitarian aid. With respect to food items sent by private sources from Guyana and elsewhere to individuals and social organizations, a reliable source in Puerto Ordaz explained further: “It’s very difficult to

get goods coming into Venezuela; all the borders are under strict customs check and goods coming in large amounts are confiscated even if they are coming legally, e.g., through a shipping service.” Re-migration and refugees Some Guyanese nationals have indicated that they want to re-migrate to Guyana. At the same time, it is felt that many other Venezuelan citizens in the border regions may move into the Guyana, Colombia, Brazil and Trinidad as refugees. But President David Granger has firmly stated that Guyana is not currently considering accepting refugees but would welcome returning Guyanese. According to a Kaieteur News report on May 20, Granger said Guyana has special interest because of the territorial question between the two countries. He was adamant that the Venezuelan economic crisis could affect the security of the region, and thus Guyana was hoping for an orderly resolution to the situation. He also expressed concerns over the involvement of the Venezuelan armed forces in the current crisis—an action Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has explained as a means to deal with the growing crime situation and protests. One week later, on May 27, Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge amplified on the president’s statement by expressing the view that Guyana would be prepared to lend support to the Venezuela should the need arise. He explained that Guyanese would, if they deem it necessary, try and provide humanitarian or other assistance to Venezuela. He added that Guyana’s concerns over the Venezuelan crisis “extends to the point where Guyana would try to ensure that it does not contribute to the problems, including through comments which are inimical to a peaceful resolution of the crisis.” With regards to Guyanese residing in Venezuela, he said that if some Guyanese decided to return home “we have an obligation to accommodate them.” However, he did not feel that there would be an influx of Venezuelan refugees into Guyana and stated that “the people on the border are not the ones chronically affected by the shortages; those people are in the city, and they will find it easier to go to either Trinidad or Colombia; so that doesn’t worry us.” Help from Trinidad Meanwhile, President Maduro has been making some efforts to garner economic support from within the region. On May 23, on a visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Keith Rowley agreed to supply manufactured consumer and food items to eastern Venezuela trade through the creation of a “rotating” Venezuelan US$50 billion fund. Rowley hoped that this arrangement could provide “some significant relief to the people of Venezuela.” The Trinidad Guardian later reported that food items such as chicken, black beans and ketchup were among the items that Venezuela had requested. The paper added that the Venezuelan government was also expected to send a request for “eight priority items” which would be shipped as soon as they are ready. Many people of Trinidadian heritage reside in eastern Venezuela, particularly in the state of Sucre, and during this year there have been an

unusually high number of arrivals in Port of Spain from there. Efforts to reach political compromise While these efforts are being made to alleviate the food problems in Venezuela, diplomatic endeavours are underway to reach a compromise in the political crisis gripping the country. On June 1, the Organization of American States (OAS) approved by consensus a declaration in which the member states made an offer to Venezuela “to identify, by common accord, a course of action that will assist the search for solutions to the situation through open and inclusive dialogue” among political and social actors in the country “to preserve peace and security in Venezuela, with full respect for its sovereignty.” The declaration also offers support for the initiative of the former Presidents José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero of Spain, Leonel Fernández of the Dominican Republic and Martín Torrijos of Panama to mediate an effective dialogue between the government and the opposition, a process which has already started. The opposition coalition currently controls the National Assembly by a huge majority while the government of President Maduro continues to oppose legislative actions passed by the assembly. A similar declaration supporting the work of the three mediators was issued by the summit of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) in Cuba on June 4. And on June 14, United States Secretary of State John Kerry announced high-level talks to ease tensions between his country and the Venezuelan government. He added that the talks would also be aimed at fostering dialogue between the Maduro government and the opposition. Significantly, Kerry announced also that the United States would not support a push by OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro to suspend Venezuela from the OAS for alleged violations of the organization’s democratic charter. At Almagro’s request, the OAS is expected to convene an “emergency” meeting later this month to initiate the process aimed at suspending Venezuela from the hemispheric body. But Almagro’s action has isolated him from the great majority of the members, with even right-wing governments opposed to Maduro in the hemisphere refusing to support his proposal. His action is widely regarded as part of a personal vendetta against Maduro, and there is a general feeling that he could have better used his position to mediate a compromise between the Venezuelan government and the opposition. A political compromise and understanding can surely assist to ease the pressures on the Venezuelan people. In the present circumstances with no side willing to be flexible, diplomatic mediators will definitely encounter a stiff challenge to reach their objective. How long this task will take is anyone’s guess. In the meantime, the crisis continues to the detriment of the entire nation. (Dr. Odeen Ishmael, Ambassador Emeritus (retired), historian and author, served as Guyana’s ambassador in the USA (1993-2003), Venezuela 2003-2011) and Kuwait and Qatar (2011-2014). He actively participated in meetings of UNASUR from 2003 to 2010 and has written extensively on South American integration issues.)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

13

Things looking up for Albouystown - Sports, recreational facilities in the works T HE G UYANA C HRONICLE

IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE INTRODUCTION OF ITS

NEW YORK EDITION T HIS

PUBLICATION WILL BE AVAILABLE TO READERS IN

* B ROOKLYN * Q UEENS & * T HE B RONX EVERY WEEKEND TO KEEP THE N EW Y ORK DIASPORA UP - TO - DATE WITH WHAT ’ S HAPPENING IN G UYANA

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FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THIS PUBLICATION BY SUBMITTING ARTICLES OR PLACING ADVERTISEMENTS CONTACT OUR REPRESENTATIVE IN

D ENNIS A. N ELSON

The intended play park at James and Bel Air streets IN their bid to make a practical contribution to the impoverished suburban community of Albouystown, Councillors Malcolm Ferreira and Heston Bostwick have teamed up to establish two facilities for sports and recreation. But the duo cannot see the completion of the projects for at least three years, unless the public steps up and generously provides what is needed. “I intend to beg for everything needed for these facilities,” Ferreira told the Chronicle on Tuesday.

The Councillor, who was elected through Constituency Ten, spoke to the Chronicle in an invited comment following his presentation of a draft proposal that he took to the City Council on Monday at the fortnightly statutory meeting. Ferreira walked councillors through the layout of the proposed projects by means of a projection screen. He and Bostwick intend to construct a play park opposite the clinic at James and Bel Air Streets, Albouystown, and a sports facility on Independence Boulevard.

N EW Y ORK

@ 917-379-6590

dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com

W E W ISH YOU A H APPY J UBILEE C ELEBRATION (50 Y EARS

OF I NDEPENDENCE )

LET’S KEEP OUR FLAG FLYING HIGH

The sports facility to be constructed on Independence Boulevard

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Massive Turn-out At Guyana’s Golden Jubilee Celebration In New York

NEW YORK: A mammoth parade through the streets of Brooklyn and a massive Unity Concert at South Shore High School Park, Brooklyn, brought the curtains down on the one-week New York celebration of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence. The New York Guyana Jubilee Celebration from June 4-12, 2016, was organized by Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary Celebration Committee (New York). The parade, which commenced at Church and Utica Avenues in the heart of the Guyanese-American community in Brooklyn, was led by Committee Chairman, Mr. Rickford Burke, Guyanese American New York State Senator-Hon. Roxanne Persaud, Guyana’s 2nd Vice-President and Minister of National Security, Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan and Guyana’s Minister of Public Infrastructure, Hon. David Paterson. The Christian Fellowship Pathfinder Club Marching Band was the drum corps of the parade.

Thousands of proud Guyanese revelers danced and gyrated to Adrian Dutchin’s “Show Me Yuh Flag,” several other Jubilee songs by Guyanese artists and Soca music from around the Caribbean. The parade flowed up Church Avenue, south into to Ralph Avenue and ended at the South Shore High School Park at Glenwood and Ralph Avenues. Hundreds of NYPD officers lined the barricaded route as police officers on motorcycles and in marked vehicles steered through the Brooklyn streets lined with spectators waving Guyana flags. The parade reflected diversity and Guyanese unity. The Indo-Guyanese community from Queens led the parade with a float promoting Lakshmee Singh’s Radio and TV shows. The talk show host herself, flanked by several beauties and dancers, waved to the overjoyed crowd. Singh is organizer of the annual Diwali parade and cultural show in Richmond Hill, Queens. Another float on a decorated giant

18-wheeler tractor trailer, blasted Soca music which electrified the massive crowd of thousands of Guyanese of all ages. The rear of the parade was a picturesque carnival scene with a sea of Guyana flags and revelers decked in a variety of colors. Passersby stopped and waved. Some joined the celebration, which also attracted many other West Indians. The after-parade unity concert at South Shore attracted a massive turnout, causing the New York Police Department to mobilize additional personnel and close entrances. Hence thousands of persons, including Jubilee Celebration Committee members, could not gain entry. Patrons who were locked out of the park were however undaunted. They continued the festivities on the street which was blocked off by Police. Committee Chairman Rickford Burke said the Police measures were standard precautionary procedures and apologized to patrons who could not get in. He signaled

that in the future consideration would be given to venues that can accommodate larger capacities. The Chairman noted that in spite of the glitches the concert went well and was one of the best in the New York Guyanese-American community. Burke also observed that NYPD reported that there was no incident and showered high praises on the Guyanese community for being orderly and well behaved. He said: “For two consecutive years, thousands upon thousands of Guyanese turned celebrated significant occasions in our country’s history without incident. “This level of civility and orderliness is rare in New York City. This speaks to the peaceful nature, self-discipline and decency of the Guyanese people. I congratulate them. They’ve done our country proud. I’m confident that we’re earned greater respect and influence here in New York,” Burke said. The Concert was sponsored by El Dorado Rum!

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

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Guyana Investment Confab draws strong interest in NY

A GROUND-BREAKING investment conference on the occasion of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary drew more than 165 investors, entrepreneurs and Guyanese leaders to New York City. Deepened interest in agriculture, agro-processing, energy, tourism, manufacturing, BPO and other sectors came from Investors across the USA, Guyana, Canada, and India. The one-day Conference was held at the prestigious Harvard Club, NYC on Friday, June 10, 2016. The Conference brought Minister of the Government, officials from Go-Invest and the private sector to discuss the investment opportunities in Guyana and ways of energizing the investment environment. According to Conference Chair and Co-Founder of Guyana-America Investments (GAIN), Mr. Ewart Marshall, “the Conference intended to promote Guyana as an investment destination for diaspora and non-diaspora investors; we are excited that the interest for Guyana was so overwhelming.” The Conference covered the following topics: • The Investment Landscape: Opportunities Abound in Guyana • The Investment Climate: Attractive and Ready • The Investment Process: Doing Business in Guyana... nuts and bolts • The Investment Motion: Driving and Delivering Investments to Guyana Additionally, many investors with proposals in hand queued in long lines to meet with Ministers and Officials of Go-Invest to discuss their projects and proposals. Throughout the day the room filled with investors and entrepreneurs were seen in energizing and active networking. Some investors who came to look for financing or equity were able to find multiple providers and many private equity and fund managers also found promising projects. Delivering on the Investment Opportunities in Guyana and the enabling environment were: • Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan, Minister of Public Security • Hon. David Patterson, Minister of Infrastructure • Hon. Dominic Gaskin, Minister of Business • Hon. Cathy Hughes, Minister of Telecommunications • Ms. Patricia Bacchus, Chairperson, GO-Invest

• Mr. Owen Verwey, CEO, GO-Invest • Dr. Shamir Ally, Deputy-Chairman, GO-Invest • Mr. Nohar Singh, CEO, TravelSpan • Francisco Carneriro, Lead Economist for the Caribbean, World Bank • Dr. Vincent Adams, Engineer and Energy Expert • Dr. Glendon Archer, CEO, Metallica Commodities Corp. • Ms. Allison Butters-Grant, CEO, Global Seafood Distributors • Dr. Rohan Somar, MD, MBA, CPE: Physician/CEO; Health Care Exec.; Co-Founder, Guyana-America Investments • Mr. Salaudeen Nausrudeen, CEO, Positive Communications and Co-Founder, Guyana-America Investments (GAIN) • Capt. Gerry Gouveia, Rep. Private Sector Comm. of Guyana • Dr. Ivelaw Griffith, Vice-Chancellor & Principal Univ. of Guyana Minister of Business, Mr. Dominic Gaskin emphasized that the Guyana government is “serious in bringing business to Guyana clean, fair and transparent. Guyana can accommodate all kind investors.” He made it clear that the abundance of natural and human resources available in Guyana reinforces the fact that the present administration is ready to do business and to establish the right investment climate in Guyana. Mr. Marshall said that, “our goal was to have the Ministers, GO-Invest Officials and private sector on the same platform discussing the challenges as well as the opportunities that exists; this I believe provided a high level of credibility to investors that Guyana means business.” “More investment events promoting Guyana are being planned in the US and Canada all year long,” Mr. Marshall added. The active ready-to-invest sectors highlighted at the Conference were Agriculture, Eco-Tourism, Forestry, Information Technology, Call Centers, Agro-processing, Infrastructure, Energy, Mining and Education. The organizers extends special thanks to its sponsors the Newton Group, Metallica Commodities Corp and JHI Associates/Mid-Atlantic Oil and Gas, Travel Span/One Guyana Air, Avory & Associates, H&R Block (Lithonia, GA), Aristeia Global Advisors, Gafoors, GAIN, Qualfon, National Hardware (Guyana) Ltd., Gaico Construction as well as its partners Wee Radio, Caribbean American Newspaper, Caymana Consulting, Positive Communications and MARS technologies.

Iftar, in remembrance of victims of the Orlando massacre

Muslim attorney Kashir Khan and his wife Scheherazade last evening hosted a special Iftar (the evening meal when Muslims end their daily Ramadan fast), in association with the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) to remember the victims of the Orlando massacre, in which a gunman killed 49 people at a gay nightclub. In photo, Mrs Khan has the attention of outgoing US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt and US Ambassador Perry Holloway

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Music as an avenue of development By Ariana Gordon in New York

THOUGH not Guyanese by birth, it is Jermain Jackman’s wish to see the youth of Guyana be given an opportunity to realise their true potential despite their circumstances. ‘Young people are the future,’ he said while noting that they must be guided. The provision of opportunities for young people to excel, Jackman said is key to development. Jackman, born in the United Kingdom to Guyanese parents and the winner of the BBC’s third edition of ‘The Voice’ singing competition, sees himself as 100 per cent Guyanese. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle while in New York to participate in Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, Jackman said ‘Guyana is so

special to me.’ He explained that though born to Guyanese parents, he has always loved Guyana. For the 2014 winner of the UK Voice competition, Guyana will always be his home. He has travelled to Guyana on many occasions to see family and friends and to just relax. And in his mind, the simple comfort that Guyana provides him when he visits means the world to him. He said Guyana’s attainment of 50 years as an independent nation is a very important occasion for all Guyanese and called for the past as important as it was in shaping the country, be looked at only for the purpose of moving forward. Unity, Jackman said is the key to ensuring that Guyana prospers. ‘To celebrate its independence and have celebrations across the world just signifies

Jermain Jackman stands proudly with the Golden Arrow Head around his body at the Unity Concert held on Sunday at the South Shore High School, Brooklyn, New York.

Jermain Jackman, the winner of the 2014 edition of ‘The Voice’ stands with President David Granger on Saturday at a state dinner held at the Sheraton Hotel, Manhattan, New York in observance of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

how strong we all are as Guyanese…to have massive events here in Brooklyn, New York, the UK, Canada and Europe,’ said the 21-year-old singer. The last time he visited Guyana was when his grandmother passed last year but notwithstanding that sad and trying period for him and his family Jackman said: ‘I always find something special when I return to Guyana.’ He says being in Guyana is always a good feeling that leaves him wanting to return. ‘When I am in Guyana I am surrounded by family, friends and rum and it always a pleasure to be in my country. There is something special about Guyana when you land, the heat hits you and you smell Guyana… it is indescribable.’ Jackman was the youngest participant in the UK Voice competition in 2014 and said it was quite difficult for him as there were other singers who were performing before he was born. ‘It was difficult and a lot of hard work,’ he told Guyana Chronicle noting that the challenges he faced made him stronger. The UK singer who wants to see

Guyana represented prominently globally said he is currently studying politics at the University of Leeds said he is working on new music but could not state when it will be released. After winning the third series of the BBC television singing competition ‘The Voice’ in 2014, Jackman’s first single ‘And I Am Telling You’ only hit 75 in the charts, whilst his debut album Jermain Jackman released in March 2015 sold a disappointing 613 physical copies during its first week of release . Of Guyanese parentage, Jermain was taught from an early age to reach for the stars and to never give up despite the many challenges that may come his way. The 21-year-old has been singing from a tender age and saw music as an avenue for development. He grew up in the Borough of Hackney where there weren’t many opportunities for young people like him. He saw that challenge as motivation and with his passion for politics he joined the Hackney Youth Parliament and now serves as a mentor for many young people.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

17

Tied Local Gov’t Election results…

PPP pressing GECOM for run-off elections GECOM says it cannot now act

THE Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has written the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for it to hold run-off elections in Local Authority Areas, including Mabaruma, which recorded equal votes in recently held Local Government Elections. The letter to GECOM was written by attorney Bibi Shadick,who serves as one of the party’s commissioners on GECOM. Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday at the PPP’s Freedom House headquarters at Robb Street, Georgetown, Shaddick said she wrote the Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowen-

field on May 31, reminding him of the six Local Authority Areas (LAAs) which recorded ties at the elections. She said that she explained to him that these local government bodies have not been able to provide services to their residents due to the absence of a mayor in one area and five chairmen in the others. The six LAAs include Mabaruma, where a mayor is to be elected, and five Neighbourhood Democratic Councils 9NDCs), namely Woodlands/Farm, Woodlands/Bel Air, Malgre Tout/ Meer-Zorgen, Gibraltar-Fyrish and Industry-Plaisance. The Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan had

appointed a mayor for Mabaruma and chairmen for the NDCs, but a High Court judge quashed those appointments. “I am seeking to formally inform GECOM that the Local Authority Areas have not yet elected a mayor or chairman due to an equality of votes cast in favour of two nominated councillors in each case. This notification seeks to trigger GECOM’s legal and constitutional responsibility to hold run-off elections in the six LAAs,” Shaddick said in her letter. According to the law, if a tie is recorded in a LAA at LGE, a run-off election is held to determine the outcome. According to the CEO however, this run-off election could only be initiated

after GECOM has received a written correspondence from the overseers of the respective areas indicating the status of those LAAs, as is stipulated by the law. ”We can only initiate actions if that sub-action on the part of the overseer is satisfied in accordance with the law,” Lowenfield said. Lowenfield confirmed that he was in receipt of the letter sent by Shaddick and subsequently sought the advice of the commission. He was keen to note too that the issue had been engaging the attention of the commission even before he was written to. “The matter was before the commission prior to the [PPP] Commissioner writing us. And the commission made a decision which

and sell up to 7PM, so it gives me a sense of security. This one is much brighter than the red one. It is very good for my business.” Mr. A. Khan, the manager of Khan’s Sawmill, expressed similar sentiments. “These white lights are far better than the previous ones which were red. I feel far more secure with this one.” The ministry said that information obtained from data- gathering and experience gained from the installation process will be used to guide decisions with regard to street- lighting. “GEA will use the data gathered to compare the Induction Street Lamps with the Led Street Lights to determine which of the two technologies is better suited for use in Guyana,” the ministry stated.

TRACTORS were Wednesday handed over to all of the country’s towns by the Ministry of Communities; Mahdia, which has not yet received township status, will receive a tractor at a later date. Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, handed over the tractors to the mayors of the towns at a ceremony on the tarmac of the National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara. He said that these tractors were provided mainly to aid the municipalities in solid waste management. According to Bulkan, the tractors will aid in solid waste management in an “efficient, effective and friendly manner.” Bulkan mentioned that about $100 million was spent on the initiative and it is a part of the ministry’s plan to aid in development and foster cohesion with the municipalities. Due to their versatile nature these tractors can also be used for a number of other purposes, such as assisting in the mowing of grass, main-

was to act in accordance with law. The law stipulates that GECOM cannot act unless the overseers write to GECOM,” the CEO said. He further revealed that the overseers have not written to GECOM indicating the status of the NDCs. As such, he reiterated that no action can be taken by GECOM until they are written to. With regard to the municipality of Mabaruma, Lowenfield explained that the issue is currently before the court, which means that the elections regulatory body cannot make a pronouncement or a decision on the issue until there is a ruling. Two months after the stalemate following government’s decision to appoint leaders for the local govern-

ment bodies that saw a tie in votes at the elections in March, the PPP said it was willing to negotiate with the administration on a way forward. Government had said that an offer was made to the Opposition PPP, in which the latter would have had the right to elect the senior posts in local authority areas based on the plurality of votes, but this was rejected by them. The PPP subsequently filed for the orders in the High Court quashing the decision on the basis that the minister acted contrary to and in violation of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Cap. 28:01. Justice Diana Insanally granted an interim order quashing the appointments.

Towns get multi-purpose GEA installs tractors energy-efficient street lights in Timehri THE Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has installed energy- efficient streetlights along the Timehri highway, with the hope of better understanding different energyefficient ,street- lighting technologies. The exercise, which cost $2M, saw GEA replacing 37 high- pressure sodium vapour (HPSV) street lamps with energy- efficient induction lamps between Bounty Farm and the Timehri Police Outpost, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure stated. According to the ministry, the previous lamps were rated at 250 watts each, while the new lamps are rated at 120 watts each, resulting in lower energy consumption. The new lamps also come equipped with a timer- control relay to switch

the lamps off during the day. The ministy quoted Timehri resident, Aktar Shaw, as saying that the new lamps are better than “the red ones [HPSV lamps].” “I feel safer with this one; I no longer worry about my vehicle which I park on the bridge. The red ones were not as effective.” Another resident, Angelina Richmond, was quoted as saying, “The energy- saving lights are far better.” “It allows you to see better and you feel safer, especially when going to church and returning home at nights. The brightness allows the children to play in the yard on weekends after the sun goes down.” Nalini Sukhal, a vendor operating along the highway, expressed thanks for the new lights. “I come out at 3PM

An employee of GENEQUIP applies the licence plate to one of the tractors

tenance of parapets, moving materials, etc. S. Nauth, an engineer from the Ministry of Communities, highlighted the efficient design of the machines. He said they are equipped with hook lift trailers and is especially designed for the management of solid waste through the use of skip bins (some of which will also be provided through this project) and these hook lifts can be detached to allow the tractor to be used for other purposes mentioned earlier. In addition, four of the tractors are equipped with “Double Drive” capacities, which would allow for use in the hilly and difficult terrains

of towns such as Mahdia, Lethem and Maburuma. Also speaking at the handing over was Mohamed Ally, Sales Manager of General Equipment Guyana Limited (GENEQUIP). GENEQUIP was the company contracted after the bidding process and this company has supplied John Deere tractors – an American company well known for its agricultural and other heavy duty equipment. Ally reassured of the effectiveness and versatility of the machines and revealed that each machine came with complimentary equipment and a manual for their maintenance. (Vishani Ragobeer)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Parking meter controversy simmers ––King defends Mexico trip, Bulkan treads lightly

TOWN Clerk Royston King feels people are “taking advantage of the absence of the Mayor to advance negative, divisive and completely untrue narratives.” Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan, on the other hand, feels it’s “unfair” for councillors to endorse an arrangement they’re not fully au fait with. The common denominator here is the now-controversial parking meter arrangement, which was plugged by city officials as a method for creating vehicular mobility around the city. In an effort to advance the project, the Town Clerk is currently in Mexico with Mayor Chase-Green and Councillors Junior Garrett and Oscar Clarke ostensibly to run it by officials there. MEXICO TRIP Other councillors were only made aware of this development at last Monday’s statutory council meeting, where there was not only outrage, but many questions for Deputy Mayor, Sherod Duncan. In his defence, Duncan, who is deputising for Chase-Green in her absence, told the Council that he did have some reservations about the trip, and had raised them with both the Mayor and Town Clerk by way of electronic mail. He told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that he could not confirm the nature of the Mayor’s visit to Mexico, but that he is awaiting the other side of the story when the Mayor and Town Clerk respond to the e-mail he’d sent them. Duncan said he himself only learnt about the Mexico trip when the Mayor called him via telephone last Saturday to say that she will be out of the country. He said he would subsequently receive another call from her, ‘hinting’ that she will be accompanied by the Town Clerk. He said, too, that had it not been for the Deputy Town Clerk, he would not have known that Councillors Garrett and Clarke were also part of the dele-

gation. A MOBILITY SOLUTION While in Mexico, the M&CC delegation expects to be presented with the final rollout schedule of the new parking meter project which, according to a release issued by the Town Clerk, “is actually more of a mobility solution for the city of Georgetown.” Noting that other projects are being presented to the delegation by the Mexican officials, King said in his missive sent all the way from Mexico: “While it is unfortunate that certain individuals have taken advantage of the absence of the Mayor to advance negative, divisive and completely untrue narratives, the Mayor and the travelling delegation plan to hold a press conference upon their return.” King said everything will be made clear at the press conference, particularly the nature of the trip, which “engenders the City leadership’s duty of protecting and improving the lives and opportunities available to its constituents.” King commended the “extensive due diligence” of the project, even as councillors spoke at the recent statutory meeting on the need for broader consultation on the matter. One such councillor was Roopnarine Persaud, who said, “It is a monopoly that we cannot afford here. It is not fair; I will not be a part of it, to saddle my constituency with this type of bill. We cannot riddle them with bills and bills and bills.” Meanwhile, Minister Bulkan, who has responsibility for the nation’s local government system in the absence of a Local Government Commission, said yesterday that while he endorses the traffic-management project, there is still need for greater public education, especially since councillors still need to be fully informed on how they will reap the benefits of the arrangement. GHOST COMPANY

Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, and Town Clerk Royston King check out the merchandise Quite recently, it was revealed that the company selected to carry out the project, which will see parking meters being placed around the city, had listed a Manhattan address which was debunked by persons from another media house who visited the Manhattan address and found that the company, National Parking Systems (NPS), was not registered at the location which they named. NPS is collaborating with another company, Smart City Solutions, on the project. When asked about the company now referred to as a “ghost company” that was awarded the city’s contract, Minster Bulkan said he could not validate the claim since he has not yet met with Georgetown city

officials. He did say, however, that his Ministry has received reports of an allegation surrounding the possible “ghost company”, and that if what people are saying is true, then the municipality must be able to address this. In his release, the Town Clerk said, “The Mayor and City leadership continue with their hands-on approach in their overseeing of a project which began with extensive due diligence on a parking solution, and continues now with their involvement in consideration of other complimentary projects that can be offered by the Smart City Solutions consortium.”

Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and City Councillor Oscar Clarke look on at a presentation by officials in Mexico City, Mexico

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

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Making tenants into homeowners –– Fabulous Homes, in collaboration with Alleyne and Company, takes the leap

By Shauna Jemmott FABULOUS Homes International, in collaboration with Alleyne and Company, is gearing to make tenants into homeowners by providing affordable homes through ‘Project 500’. Chief Executive Officer of Fabulous Homes International, Karis Munroe, told the Guyana Chronicle that work

over 1,000 labourers, skilled workers, counsellors and professional agents to work with individual homeowners. This project is designed for the newly-established ‘Spring Hill Estate’ in La Villeth on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. It is some 20 minutes away from Splashmin’s Resort; 30 minutes from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri;

One of the fabulous houses being built by ‘Project 500’

Fabulous Homes Chief Executive Officer Karis Munroe has already started on the project, and several persons have selected the house they would like to build and the land on which it should be built. ‘Project 500’ employs

and 12 miles away from the mining town of Linden. “Project 500 is a programme that we designed for individuals that are tenants right now. Instead

of coming into us every day and asking for properties to rent between $18,000 to $120,000 or more, we decided to create a programme for these individuals, where, instead of having to pay your landlord’s mortgage continuously month after month, year after year, and you see no return from it, how about if you had an opportunity to own your own home?” Munroe explained. She said that while many residential lands along the Soesdyke/Lin-

Dataram’s ex-wife held in ganja bust

THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Thursday evening seized 170 pounds of marijuana and arrested four persons including the exwife of self-confessed drug-trafficker, Barry Dataram, during a raid at Versailles,West Bank Demerara. The quartet will make their first court appearance on Monday. Head of CANU, James Singh, confirmed to the Guyana Chronicle that the raid was conducted on a house in a gated com-

munity at Versailles. He said ranks acted on a tip-off when they conducted the raid. Dataram’s ex-wife, Sheleza had gained notoriety in December 2007 when she and her three-yearold daughter were kidnapped by two Venezuelans, one of whom was later shot dead in a confrontation with the police. The incident had occurred at Ruimzeight Gardens, West Coast Demerara.

den Highway are leased, the lands in Spring Hill Estate are transported, and the entire area is residential. “These lands are not leased, they are titled lands, and the entire area is scheduled for residential (purposes). The land is really beautiful! It has little creeks in there, some little waterfalls, and the end of it borders on the Demerara River.” “The area will house nursery, primary and secondary schools, a recreational park, supermarket and other businesses,” she explained. The package of a land and a two or three-bedroom house is worth $6M, and special considerations would be given to individuals based on their ability to pay, she explained. “We created a programme (wherein) individuals can own a brand new house. They’re getting their land and their homes included in a brand new community. Instead of having to pay $50,000 to your landlord every month, the $50,000 that you’re paying goes to your mortgage,” Mun-

roe expanded. Munroe said interested applicants are required to provide a down payment of $3.5M, and if they cannot afford to pay all at once, they can reserve their lots and ‘particular house’ with a payment of $100,000 and over. “If they need financing, we can give them whatever documentation is needed for them to go to the bank. Individuals who cannot get financing through the bank, we can assist them in getting finance; we can finance it ourselves. But the key is that they will need at least $3.5M down, and be able to qualify to pay at least $50,000 every month for 120 months – that is a total of 10 years,” She explained. The project is a partnership with Scotia Bank. But if anyone is working with another bank, they, too, can be assisted in securing a loan through the project, she explained. Special consideration would also be given to those who cannot afford $50,000 monthly; they might be asked to pay as little as $15,000 month-

ly, but the years of payment for their new home would be extended, she explained. “The key is to change the generational ‘rental mentality’ into a generational ‘ownership mentality’. You can say ‘this is mine, and I can pass this on to my children’. You’re creating a legacy right now, and you have to start somewhere,” she advised. More information on the housing deal is available at the website Fabuloushomesinternational. com. Persons can go to the tab which says buying, select the Project 500 option, and pick a style of home from the options available. “Our goal is to get 500 people into their homes by December. So the ‘Home for Christmas’ is a real possibility; very, very real possibility. They just need a way as to how they’re gonna either accumulate their $3.5M on their own, borrow it from a family, get a loan, or they get the entire amount financed from the bank,” Munroe said.

Big ganja bust

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Bullet still lodged in shot teen waitress

C

HEST doctors are yet to operate on teen waitress Onika Luke, who was shot to the chin during an attempted robbery at her part-time place of employment -the Lucky Star Chinese Restaurant at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara -- on May 27 last, when a lone gunman stormed the business place and she failed to comply with the gunman’s request that she give him all the money in the cash register. Besides taking a bullet in the chin, Luke’s left thumb was also shot off in the attack. Relatives say that although the teen appears to be slowly healing, the bullet has since moved from her throat into her chest cavity. Her brother, Wendell Ranjee, has said, “She is feeling much better and is healing. The neck specialist said that the bullet moved from there and headed to the chest region. Now chest doctors have to take charge, but I wasn’t told when this will happen.” Reflecting on the progression of events, Ranjee said the teen was discharged from a private city hospital one week after the incident, and was admitted to the Public Hospital after it was realised that although the bill had surpassed $1M, nothing had been done for the teen. “Nothing was done at the private hospital; and when enquiries were made

as to when the surgery would be done, they didn’t know,” Ranjee said, adding: “I asked them what would be the average cost for her to stay there until the surgery is done, and I was told it would cost almost $80,000 a day.” Acknowledging that

Teen waitress Onika Luke his sister’s employer was standing the medical bill at the private hospital, Ranjee said it would be reckless to spend money when nothing was being done. The first round of surgery was done at the Georgetown Public Hospital, after the wounded area became infected and the bullet had moved to below the teen’s collar bone. As things now stand, the teen is unable to eat or breathe properly because of the position where the bullet is lodged; and this is what makes the operation complicated. In the meantime, the police are on the hunt for the suspect, while the investigation is in progress.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

GRA seizes two tonnes of ganja, customs broker arrested

ANTI-narcotics agents on Monday seized approximately two tonnes of compressed marijuana from a container at the John Fernandes Wharf on Water Street. Acting on information, shortly after 1 pm on Monday, officers attached to the Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) and the Port Control Unit (PCU) of the GRA broke the container, which was shipped to these shores with a quantity of machinery last month. A customs broker was arrested shortly after the bust was made. The container arrived in Guyana from the United States on May 16 onboard the vessel “MC Fouma”.

A quantity of the illicit substance which was discovered on Monday Since then, GRA officials had been monitoring the vessel’s movement. The vessel made one stop in Jamaica before proceeding here.

Investigators believe that the container was tampered with while in Jamaica or en-route to Guyana. From all appearances, a source

noted, the drug may have been shipped by persons familiar with the drug trade here. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

300 ganja plants destroyed in Mabaruma ON Sunday June 12, the police conducted a drug-eradication operation at Arukamai Backdam, Mabaruma, North West District. There they found a quarter acre field of about 300 marijuana plants ranging in height from 1 foot to six feet under cultivation, along with a camp. The field and camp were destroyed by fire and no one was arrested. Meanwhile, at 15:30 hrs on June 12, 2016 acting on information received, ranks attached to the Matthews Ridge Police Station arrested a male in the community, with four hundred and fifty-three (453) grams of cannabis sativa (marijuana). He is in custody and will appear before the court tomorrow.

The marijuana field which was destroyed by the police

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

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Emotional scenes at church service for slain US teen

THERE were no dry eyes as relatives, friends, acquaintances and teachers exited the Clarendon Road Church located at 3304 Clarendon Road, Brooklyn, New York on Tuesday after paying their respects to 16-year-old Shemel Mercurius who was shot dead two weeks ago. Mercurius who migrated to New York some four years ago was killed by her boyfriend in her East Flatbush, Brooklyn, New York apartment as she was babysitting her three-year-old cousin Josia on June 2. The threeyear-old was unharmed. The Teen’s boyfriend identified as Taariq Stephens, a 24-year-old man with a half-dozen prior arrests has been charged for the murder of the Guyanese teenager. Stephens turned himself over to the New York Police Department (NYPD) and was charged with the murder of Mercurius and

NYPD officers offer words of comfort to Shemel Mercurius’s brother (Right) on Tuesday. Also in photo are Mercurius’ father Dexter Mercurius (center) and other relatives being in possession of a weapon last Thursday at the 67th Precinct station house in East Flatbush. The viewing which began at 15:30h on Tuesday saw scores of persons paying tribute to the 16 year old girl and giving their condolences to her family. Immediately after the viewing which lasted approximately 4 hours, a church service was held. Relatives who stood outside of the Clarendon Road Church told Guyana Chronicle that Mercurius was ‘a loving child’. Her cousin Grace Lawson described her as “an angel.” “She was the sweetest young lady ever. It is just sad and unbelievable that we are all here today under these circumstances.” Lawson said Mercurius was a mannerly and loving child who would always enquire about the well-being of her relatives and

Shemel Mercurius’s mother, Lovern Williams (second left) arrives at the Clarendon Road, Brooklyn, New York Church on Tuesday. She is surrounded by relatives

► Continued on page 22

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

Emotional scenes at church ... ► From page 21

friends. “I got to see her most times in the afternoon when she was coming home from school… there is no other word to describe her but being an angel,” said Lawson who last saw the teenager the Wednesday before she died. She said Mercurius was excited about the Region’s examinations that are scheduled soon and she was studying hard for the exams. Lawson recounted that she got the news while at work but she did not make much of the news as she was not informed that it was her 16-year-old cousin. She said when she got home her niece told her somebody got shot. “I turned to my brother and I said thank God you guys are in the house. I didn’t pay any more attention to it until like 6 o’clock the next morning when they said Mercurius…I jumped up. There is only one Mercurius I know…when they said Shemel we went Berserk.” The emotional woman said her niece saw when the teen was taken out of her apartment complex by paramedics but her family did not know it as Mercurius. Meanwhile, as many left the church after viewing Mercurius’ body they were heard speaking of her characteristics. One woman said: “That child was so pleasant…wherever she saw me she would say hello and ask how I was doing.” A young girl was overheard speaking to her parent said, “Mom, can’t believe my friend is gone. This is so hard for me right now.” She cried uncontrollably as she reminisced on times spent with the Guyanese teen. A relative of the 16 year old girl told Guyana Chronicle that ‘it is unfortunate that she was brought to the United States to get a better life and ended up dead.’ He said his family needs justice and he stood outside of the Church. “I can’t believe she is gone; I can’t believe she died this way, so young. She had her entire future ahead of her,” the man said. Mercurius would be laid to rest on Wednesday at the Canarsie Cemetery, Brooklyn, New York.

Dexter Mercurius (right), father of 16-year-old Shemel Mercurius, walks alongside a relative (left) outside of the Clarendon Road Church, Brooklyn, New York on Tuesday

Persons arriving at the Clarendon Road Church, Brooklyn, New York on Tuesday

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

23

Matthew’s Ridge’s

Nikita Innis

Nikita Innis

F

By Akola Thompson

among few female aircraft technicians

study engineering, as while it was not flying, she would get the opportunity to work around planes. rom humble beginnings in the community of Matthew’s Ridge, Barima She would later acquire her License without type rating, Airframe and Power plant Waini, Region one, 26 year old Nikita Inniss has bested the odds set (A & C License Issued by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority), an accomplishment out against her and has become one of the very few female aircraft that Nikita is up to this day, very proud of. technicians in the country. Now living in Diamond on the East Bank Demerara, Nikita has been working as Childhood, said Nikita, was basically “fun filled days” as she was a a technician at the local airline, Air Service Limited, from the age of 22. very active child and took part in every activity she could, such as schools and church Despite working in a male dominated profession, Nikita insists that while she concerts along with school sports, as she was an athlete. knows many women have had bad experiences with male Games such as cricket, circle tennis, war-break and hopchauvinism, she has been lucky to escape that. “If it were scotch are all games, which bring back find memories of to occur I would choose to let my work and my abilities playing with her brother and friends. transcend any attempt to lower my self-esteem however,” Teenage years saw her becoming an active dancer and she said. camper. She attended the National School of Dance for Despite her love for her job however, Nikita said that a year and then continued at the Mystique Dance Group like many, she has faced many challenges but she has for three years. Camping-she said, was mainly through never allowed the challenges to get the best of her. “I a group she was a part of, the President Youth Award of use the challenges to get the best of me, I use them as a Guyana (PYARG). motivation.” Nikita said that as a child, she always envisioned Commenting upon the level of encouragement girls in herself as either being a future doctor, teacher or pilot as technical areas receive, Nikita opined that there is definitethose were the most potent needs in her community and ly something being done to encourage girls into areas such she felt the desire to give back to a space which has made as engineering. “When I attended the engineering school her into a respectable, contented woman of integrity. there weren’t many girls, in fact, I was the only female She said that while her childhood dreams of being a in my batch, but there were a few in the other batches.” doctor or pilot were not realized, she believes she has Currently, there are more than 14 girls attending the somewhat partially fulfilled her dream as without mainengineering school, something that Nikita holds as “a tenance “we wouldn’t be able to get goods and services major improvement.” to remote areas.” Compared to ten or five years ago, said Nikita, the proDespite her plans and best intentions however, fate gress of gender equality has certainly quickened its pace took Nikita in another direction as she was given the opas more and more women are being employed in areas that portunity, by a combination of people, to study engineerwere and in many ways still are considered to be “male ing and she decided to “take the leap of faith and join the jobs,” such as engineering, construction and masonry. aeronautical engineering school.” “Many more women are holding managerial positions in “Engineering was nowhere on my list,” she admitted major companies and there has been much more emphasis as her mind was focused on the pilot school, “ I went in on female empowerment, which according to surveys, for information on the engineering school after my aunt’s has resulted in much more women being qualified and urging, while there the principal persuaded me to take an employed than men.” aptitude test. A week later I got a call saying I passed and To young women out there, said Nikita, “the sky that I could bring in my necessary credentials.” is the limit- our greatest weakness lies in giving up. While she was proud of her accomplishment, it was The most certain way to succeed is always try just one Nikita Innis at work on her father’s urging that Nikita decided that she should more time.”

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

From Coolie Bai to Buffiana - Mystic celebrates being Guyanese in music

By Ravin Singh

Buffiana is a Guyanese word used to describe a person whose parents are Amerindian and Afro-Guyanese. Is basically a Guyanese kinda ting man, yuh know? About the niceness Remarkably candid and confident in his response as to what the song proGuyana got to offer,” he says in the most genuine Guyanese accent when motes, the artiste says it speaks of a Buffiana Guyanese girl who mesmerizes asked about his latest song Buffiana. men with her astonishing features and idiosyncratic dance moves – or as GuyaThe song has been penetrating the local airwaves since its nese say “the way she whine.” release two weeks ago and I had the privilege of sharing The song is considered a “Choka song” he says, reasoning that it is neither studio space for an interview with the composer, Romeo chutney nor soca, but rather a fusion of the two regionally-popular genres. Nermal, more popularly known as Mystic. Though produced by Pugsley, who Mystic credits favourably for a “fantastic Almost immediately he offers me the lone chair job,” the song was entirely written by him. available in the studio, and occupies a corner of “I wrote the song,” the young singer notes, adding that even though the floor with his back supported by the wooden he writes all of his songs, the nature of music allows for the producer wall. He played with a reel of insulation tape as he to add a line or recommend an adjustment to some parts of a song to awaited the start of the interview, intermittently make its lyrics more “compact.” asking the owner of the studio to give him the tape Without being questioned, Mystic goes on to detail his style of to use on a ball to play cricket – a sport he’s an avid writing which sets him apart from other local artistes. He explains player and fan of. that his style of writing is always geared to incorporate the use of the His humility, which could be blindly deciphered, spoke volumes, given his achievements on the in“The idea of Mystic is just someone who is into ternational stage. It was difficult coming to grips with the fact that such an established artiste was remusic and loves farming. That’s who I would tell fusing to see himself as superior within the domain people Mystic is. I could do a show at the Stadium of human interaction. Despite this, I maintained my and the next day you could find me in the backdam composure, quizzing him on what lead to the develplanting rice; that’s just who I am. People would opment of his latest masterpiece after “Coolie bai.” Maintaining a moderate tone, Mystic speaks passay ‘boy you travelling and all these things and sionately of this new song which has been viewed planting rice’ but the truth is, it’s not a big deal and shared thousands of times on the for me. I don’t see my music career as world’s most popular social media platform – Facebook. anything to ‘big-up’ myself about.” He reveals that he started thinking about an idea for the song while in the “backdam” at Black Bush Polder a few months ago. Guyanese vernacular, which helps him to “I was doing work and maintain his identity as both a person and so and just coming up an artiste. with lyrics in my head Extremely conscious and knowledgeable but I didn’t put it into of the dynamics of the music industry, he a song or anything,” immediately interrupts himself to point the young writer says. out that his style of writing, which has Subsequently, he evidently garnered much support both travelled to Georgelocally an internationally, is not superior town where DP (Darto any other local artiste. He notes thought rell Pugsley’s) studio is that when these artistes travel abroad to located, to start developperform, it is then they realise how imporing the song with protant their identity as a performer really is. ducer, Darrell Pugsley. “They realise they have to be Guyanese The song was to stand out when they’re abroad. When launched just about two they here [home], their mind usually set weeks ago at the height on foreign but once they get there, is of Guyana’s Jubilee Celthen they realise that support comes from ebrations. overseas-based Guyanese. And that is Egged on by others, he something I realized even before I started decided on a song of “hutravelling; that I have to be a Guyanese first mour” which spoke of some and adjust the music to suit our culture, not aspect of Guyana’s uniquethe other way ‘round.” ness, and hence the idea of “Buf► Continued on page 25 fiana” came about.

“

– Mystic

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

25

From Coolie Bai ... ► From page 24

“The thing about my music is that I don’t sing for one particular group. I sing for everybody. So, today I might release a song for the youths, and next week I might release another for matured people. So in a way like that I will always have critics cause one group might like this song, but not the other” he says. Then he pauses temporarily, and confidently expresses that this does not hinder his career, since people can only be critical of you when they’re following your work. Mystic goes on to describe the reaction he has received from fans thus far, laughing lightly as he says that their first reaction is that the song is a funny one. “That was the sole idea though, to add some ‘skin teeth’ or ‘laff’ as we Guyanese would say,” he adds. Realising the nationalistic approach he employed in composing his songs, which has, without doubt been a struggle in the music industry in Guyana, I was curious to know if this he genuinely believes this is the kind of music Guyanese, particularly youths, want to hear. And if this was indeed so, if more local artistes should adopt this style. Almost instantly he responds in the affirmative, reasoning that Guyanese at home are not the only one who follow the music of local artistes. He goes on to explain that Guyanese in the diaspora long for this kind of music – which gives them an identity and are willing to support it. “Is not that you have to do Guyanese songs your whole career. But when you’re an upcoming artiste, you have to know where your fan base is and attract those people first. And right now it’s not only at home, it’s in the diaspora as well, so you have to be smart,” he says. He goes on to justify this reasoning by explaining that when regional artistes are performing in the US or Canada, there is usually a group of people from that artiste’s home country which supports them. Seemingly passionate about this topic, he goes on to state that “if you got a Guyanese artiste who going and perform in foreign, and he sounding like a Trinidadian or a Bajan, now the po’ Guyanese people won’t have anybody to represent them. They won’t have somebody going on stage and saying ‘wam deh banna’ or ‘wa gine on budday’ so they would obviously feel left out.” He continues that even if there is a lack of appreciation for local music, once it’s “good music” people will be inclined to listen to it and it will get the recognition it deserves. He speaks authoritatively though, which makes the conversation much more interesting. Having released popular hit “Coolie bai” which, even to this day is one of Guyana’s theme song, Mystic was able to perform this song both regionally and internationally, which aided in the development of his career. At this point I shift his attention from the prospects of the music industry and what sells, to who Mystic is as a person and what lead to the engineering of this regionally recognized artiste. Proud of his heritage, he explains that he was born in Black Bush Polder on the Corentyne where he spent some amount of years before leaving for Georgetown. During his childhood, he remembers singing in Sunday School and among friends and cousins when they were playing together in the backdam. “When I was very small and my cousins and friends would come for us to play in the backdam, we would usually end up singing together and so. And I would always want to out-sing all of them,” he said while laughing. “I’d always try to pull more notes than them and interestingly I used to do it.” Once in the city, he attended Central High School while living with his mother - Sarah Moseley in Sophia. Though he didn’t dwell much on it, he reveals that his father passed away when he was just five years old. During the time spent at his mother’s, he notes that his love for music spiked, and he began seriously considering it as a career. The young singer goes on to reveal that while in school, he was not very

talkative, and would resort to expressing himself on paper, through poetry. This eventually evolved as he would listen to music and try to structure his poems in the form of songs. He jocularly recalls while in High School, a song competition was being promoted and he was very much interested. However, one of the requirements of the competition was that the song had to be recorded at a studio. Not being exposed to the music industry, the soon-to-be star travelled to Matt’s Record Bar – an establishment which merely sells already recorded music - to do his recording. “When I reach deh them men seh ‘nah’; we don’t do recording here pardna.” He was then directed to Vision Sounds studio. We both laugh and at that point I observed how homour had consumed his being to the point where it was inevitable for it to be reflected in his music – as is the case with Buffiana. He continues to detail how he had arrived at this point, crediting his success to determination, strong will and remarkable support from family and friends. Failing to omit the presence of God in his life, he says “the father has blessed me tremendously and I am very much thankful.” But Mystic is not only about music. I would learn that this recognized artiste, who had performed in more than three continents, including Europe, is also a rice farmer. “In my late teens I went back to Berbice and got into farming. I used to do construction work at one point in time but music and farming is what I love.” I sat there speechless, my thoughts slowly drifting away from what he was actually saying at that point in time. How many artistes of his caliber do you know who is likely to remain a rice farmer while touring multiple continents to feed the musical appetite of thousands of fans? It was a reflective and astonishing moment. Not surprising though, his jovial spirit faded temporarily, and his humility attracted the interest of my cameraman who was sitting idly by on his phone, six feet away. “The idea of Mystic is just someone who is into music and loves farming. That’s who I would tell people Mystic is. I could do a show at the Stadium and the next day you could find me in the backdam planting rice; that’s just who I am. People would say ‘boy you travelling and all these things and planting rice’ but the truth is, it’s not a big deal for me. I don’t see my music career as anything to ‘big-up’ myself about,” he humbly shares. The artiste goes on to share another experience where someone went as far as to ask him why he was still living in Guyana. Laughing again, he recalls telling them that Guyana is the land of his birth and he will always find freedom and peace of mind here; not in another man’s country. Time constraints were imposing. And the interview was nearing its end. But he was determined to offer advice to upcoming musicians and young people in Guyana. “Just find your identity as a singer or a musician. When the whole world is going in one direction with music, having your unique style will make you stand out,” he says, adding that even if the music industry appears to be struggling, once good music is produced, people will subscribe and gravitate to it. In similar fashion to regional counterpart ‘Popcaan,’ who, in a recent interview expressed his desire to see more Jamaicans travel the world to acknowledge the bigger picture of life, Mystic says being Guyanese is what sets us apart from the world, and what sells us and our culture. “So I’d just want the youths to know that they should feel proud about being Guyanese and I want encourage them to find what they are good at and build on it. “Everybody different in their own way and somebody might be good at dancing while I might be good at singing, and we got to appreciate that and build on it. “And we would find that we would start appreciating people more and having more love for our fellow Guyanese. Cause that is the ideal vision, that is what we want see; everybody live as one people, in one nation, with one destiny.”

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

US Naval Academy star

Czerda Frank

Midshipman, Czerda Frank

returns home

O

By Alva Solomon n May 27, as patriotism levels simmered among Guyanese, the Golden Arrowhead fluttered in the wind at the US Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland and young midshipman Czerda Frank had his

own reasons to feel patriotic. Frank, who was on scholarship from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) as an Officer Cadet, graduated that day with a BSc in General Engineering from the prestigious military institution, a moment which he said he would cherish, given its timing. “My mother was getting all emotional when

Frank was also exposed to flight training as part of the naval academy's summer training program

she saw the flag (Golden Arrowhead) flying and for me I felt a sense of pride,” the 21-year-old said. Back home in Guyana, there was much chatter among his friends and relatives about the Golden Jubilee celebrations and for young Frank, at one point he preferred being in Guyana to celebrate this country’s 50th Independence anniversary.

“I actually wished I was there than at my own graduation,” he told the Guyana Chronicle during a recent interview. At age 17, the former Queen’s College student opted to become an Officer Cadet in the GDF and he was admitted to the Standard Officer Cadet Training Course #45 at the Ulric Pilgrim Training School at Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri on the basis of academic qualifications and performance at the interview. Frank left these shores in 2013 to further his studies at the military academy, having stood out among scholarship applicants. Recounting his time at the naval academy, he said that initially, the transitioning process was challenging. He said the strict class times and the general settings coupled with sport and the military aspect of the programme were feats he overcame. While the young man’s aim at the academy was to pursue academics, it was his knack for pistol shooting which led to him excelling in the sport, while imprinting his name in the

At the range: Frank takes aim while competing in an NRA Intercollegiate Nationals match records at the academy. As this publication had reported, Frank stunned the US Naval Academy and indeed the GDF when he emerged winner of the 2013 NRA Free Pistol Individual Championship, in the Intercollegiate Pistol Championships at Fort Benning, Georgia, making way for the academy to take the team title.

Frank indeed put Guyana on the map once more and indelibly etched his name in the annals of history, as being one of the few young men of colour to have taken the prestigious accolade. Those Champion ships were held in March 2013. The following year, again he excelled in the sport, this time, emerg► Continued on page 27

US Naval Academy star

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 17, 2016

27

Czerda Frank ...

All in the family: Czerda’s family members were always by his side , even at his graduation. At left is his father , Courtney, while his mother Dionne Frank stands third from left ing top scorer for the Navy Pistol team at the NRA Intercollegiate Pistol Sectionals held in Fort Benning in February that year. Participating in the Sectionals were four Colleges: The Citadel; The US Naval Academy; College of Southern Maryland (CSM) and the University Of Virginia (UVA). Midshipman Frank shot in three disciplines, namely: Standard Pistol; Free Pistol and Air Pistol and emerged with the following scores: Standard: 554; Air 569 and Free Pistol 523. U n d o u b t e d l y, t h e NRA’s challenge to “be

the best” in order to “stand amongst the best” must have resonated powerfully in the mind and physique of the young GDF Officer Cadet, who was determined to do just that. He told this publication that after settling in at the academy, he received emails on various sports in which he can participate. He said that he chose pistol shooting but unfortunately, he missed the trial deadlines. Luck was on his side, however, and after he spoke to the team coach to somehow assist him in being a part of the team, a spot was eventually opened for him. He said he moved up

the competitive table during the season and it was this movement which led to him excelling at the championship events. He served as President of the International Pistol Club and in his senior year, he was captain of the pistol team at the academy. Of the 1076 students on roster, he felt proud being one of 15 foreigners who performed well during his stay there. In the military aspect of his stay at Maryland, Frank was exposed to overseas stints in naval environments where he gained first-hand experience on the practical

aspect of naval life. He travelled to Spain, Bulgaria and Greece where he was able to gain much experience on naval ships in those countries. Of course there is no place like home and being in Guyana at Christmas was a “musthappen” event while he read for his degree, and as he deemed the occasion, “Christmas is the best thing in Guyana”. Back home after completing his studies, Frank is awaiting his moment to be commissioned into the GDF, a transition which he is looking forward to, though nervous but excited. To this end he said that he will be

entering the realities of military life here and his “hope is to be able to do much good” as he can, while effecting positive contributions at the same time. Frank’s moments of glory could not be celebrated by him alone. He has always received support from his mother, Mrs Dionne Frank, the Head of Department of Sociology at the University of Guyana and his father, senior air traffic controller at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Courtney Frank. His parents and his two siblings, Chelsea and Curtly, were always connected to him, literally.

The Franks created a WhatsApp group chat, citing communication as being vital and since the young man’s siblings are also pursuing academic studies in other parts of the world; being in touch is important in the closelyknitted family. On graduation day on May 27, they were all in attendance and in one emotional social media post, the young man’s mother noted the significance of the Golden Arrowhead fluttering among others at the academy, a symbol of an achievement attained by both her son and the country.

Farewell to ‘The Greatest’ Thousands celebrate Muhammad Ali’s life

THOUSANDS of people gathered yesterday to pay their final respects to Muhammad Ali, as a jovial funeral procession, highlighted by fans who chanted and threw flowers, gave way to a more somber memorial service in Louisville, Kentucky. Ali’s memorial service at the KFC Yum! Centre started at 15:00hrs, an hour after it was originally scheduled. In a eulogy, President Bill Clinton said he wept “like a baby” while watching Ali take the final steps to light the Olympic cauldron in 1996 in Atlanta, during his presidency. He also recalled a time when he caught Ali holding two fingers behind his head to form the shape of bunny ears. “I was trying to be dignified,” Clinton said. Clinton said in Ali’s lifetime, he refused to be a victim and never wasted a day feeling sorry for himself after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Ali’s wife, Lonnie Ali, told a story about a white Louisville police officer who helped a 12-year-old Cassius Clay when his bike was stolen, crediting him with “handing” Muhammad Ali a future in boxing.

In picture Ali has a quiet word with cricket genius Garfield Sobers. Below he essays an uppercut with the bat, third from left is guyana’s Rohan kanhai. this was 1976 at lords