30th August 2013

Govt mulls drafting new hydropower plan

WEATHER TODAY

Govt mulls drafting new hydropower plan

n the wake of the virtual collapse of the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project, government on Thursday announced that with support from its international counterparts, it is toying with the idea of drafting a new hydropower initiative.

Addressing a news conference at the Office of the President on Thursday, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said more stakeholders have withdrawn their support from the US$840 million hydropower project. “For all intents and purposes, that project, with that specific design is dead, whatever small windows of opportunity that were mooted to exist appear less and less likely to be available to the stakeholders to resuscitate the project with its current design,” he explained. His comments come days after the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) announced that

it had ceased work on its due diligence report on the project. Dr Luncheon said that the vision of establishing a hydropower plant in the country as an alternative source of energy is not dead. “Already interests have been expressed by multilateral and bilateral sources in redesigning a project that would utilise our hydropower potential specifically at Amaila Falls to keep our dream, our thrust for renewable energy playing a transformative role in the life and economy of Guyana,” Dr Luncheon said.

He, however, declined to disclose the names of the agencies or countries that have signalled their interest in helping Guyana realise this dream. According to him, only when the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project is completely dead, would the names be disclosed.

On Wednesday, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh disclosed that the due diligence report on the Amaila

Falls project had been abruptly halted. The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) was highly criticised, with the government stating that the coalition is a major contributor to the death of the project. According to the finance minister, the APNU was asked to give its support which would have paved the way for the IDB to complete its report on the hydropower project. “Having spent millions of dollars

over many years, involving hundreds of experts; their views and expertise could have been used to resolve any issues the APNU would have had with this project. Instead the party chooses to prevent the IDB from completing its work without reason,” the finance minister said in a statement.

However, APNU said it will not take responsibility. “APNU agreement to any IDB proposal has never been stated as a precondition to any aspect of Amaila Falls hydro project,” the coalition’s chairman, David Granger said. He noted that the APNU had nothing to do with and did not influence the IDB’s decision on any matter in any way. Earlier in this month, Sithe Global, one of the major investors in the project and the developer, withdrew, claiming that the project needs the support of the three major political parties in the country.

Labourer charged for counterfeit currency

Churoman Dadree, 27, of Bloomfield Village, Corentyne, Berbice was on Thursday slapped with possession of forged currency and simple larceny charges when he appeared before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Whim Magistrate’s Court. He was not required to plead to the charges which stated that between August 1 and August 23

at Bloomfield Village, he had stolen US$2000 from Harrinarine Singh and replaced the bank notes with counterfeit notes.

He was granted bail in the sum of 100,000 and will make another court appearance on September 13 when a date is expected to be set for the commencement of trial.

Dadree was taken into custody after he alleged-

ly stole the money from a friend with whom he shared a house for the past six years at Bloomfield.

According to information received, on Friday the complainant reportedly went to collect the money which was in an envelope in his bedroom to pay for goods he had ordered, but upon sorting through the bills, he realised something was amiss.

Editor: Nigel Williams

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Law and invasion

It is almost certain that the U.S. is going to carry out its threat to intervene directly in the Syrian civil war.

Last Wednesday, President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. had concluded the Syrian government had carried out chemical weapons attacks against its people. Given that he had declared that such an attack would mean the Assad regime had crossed a “red line” that would precipitate an American response, there does not appear to be any wriggle room left.

Behind the scenes, there is an intense debate about the legal basis for such an action even as United Nations (UN) weapons inspectors were in Syria assessing whether chemical weapons have been used. The UN law is very clear on the subject: its charter forbids countries from “the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state”. This makes war illegal and is a descendant of the Kellogg-Briand Pact of 1928, the first general treaty to outlaw war.

The UN Charter makes no allowance for the intentions of the states involved. Except in self-defence, the charter outlaws all war-making by states, and is unconcerned with the motivation of the states involved. Whether a state intends to save a population from genocide, to punish a neighbour for an insult, or to gain territory by aggression, the charter treats all the same. All are forbidden by Article 2(4).

The charter instead creates a collective process centred on the UN Security Council, which has the authority to marshal the collective resources of the world’s governments “in defence of international peace and security”. This was the legal justification for the removal of Iraq from Kuwait in 1989. Like Thomas Hobbes’ Leviathan, the UN takes from states their autonomy over the use of force (except in self-defence) and gives it to a centralised agent that acts collectively on their behalf. This is sometimes referred to as “pooling sovereignty”.

On the same day that President Obama made his declaration, Russia and China walked out of a UN Security Council meeting as word surfaced Britain planned to pursue a resolution to authorise the use of force against Syria. Russia, a firm ally of the Bashar al-Assad regime, has invoked the UN clause to declare that any unilateral action by the U.S. or other countries would be “a violation of international law”. With both Russia and China having a veto in the Security Council, the U.S. will not receive any approval for its action from that quarter.

Just before the British government’s motion to intervene was defeated in Parliament, they had announced their justification: “The legal basis for military action would be humanitarian intervention; the aim is to relieve humanitarian suffering by deterring or disrupting the further use of chemical weapons.” In the face of such “outrages”, outside governments are allowed, and perhaps even required, to intervene.

This view has been growing in strength since the Rwandan genocide in 1994 and adds a third kind of war that is considered lawful to the portfolio of international legal options: In addition to self-defence and unanimous Security Council approval, war is legal if it is used to prevent mass humanitarian disasters. This has come to be known as the Responsibility to Protect (R2P).

The French, which have announced that they also support an American action, do so, however, from another position: humanitarian intervention in Syria may indeed be illegal but it should be pursued anyway. This is what occurred when North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) forces bombed Kosovo in 1999 for almost three months to stop President Slobodan Milosovic’s depredations against the Kosovar population. The Independent Commission on Kosovo later declared the war was widely considered to be “illegal but legitimate”.

It will be interesting to learn exactly which of the latter two “justifications” the U.S. will use when they may now act without the support of Britain.

Private versus public schools

Dear Editor,

The comparison between the private and public school system in any particular country cannot be over emphasised. Here in Guyana, even before we proceed to stating any advantages of one over the other, we need to highlight some major differences between the two in terms of a philosophical mindset.

The public school system is under the aegis of the government. So in a real sense its schools are owned, loved and cared for in their entirety by the government. Its mandate then, in being government, is to give to the public a good and essential education that would build up tomorrow’s leader. Such thinking is not to be taken lightly. It impinges on nation building in a futuristic long term manner. This is extremely vital to any democracy, particularly a young one like Guyana.

Put therefore in a simple way, the government of Guyana, via the Education Ministry, has targets in mind to help the nation holistically and permanently. In other words, if there is a shortage of skills or human resource in any particular area, then the thinking would be to work in this

direction.

It is very unlikely that private schools will be of this mind set. Their orientation is completely different. If and when they contribute to national goals, it is merely incidental. We never hear of these private schools taking census, so as to arrest any kind of negative trends in their results. We also never hear of them targeting specific areas where national development is concerned. The great divide is that government thinks of nation building in a collective manner, irrespective of a single school and its gaining glory.

The private schools are much more self oriented, individualistic and selfishly competitive. It is as if myopia and solipsism form their world view. For example, the Education Ministry is currently taking steps to address the decline in English language returns, and in its first pilot project, about two years ago, mathematics and science proved positively significant.

When it comes to the socio-psycho constructs, investigations and oversight from government are the norm in matters of abuse and discipline, and teachers’ negligence. From the standpoint of discipline, government

takes an active role in students’ behaviour, not just their academic performance. Government focuses on all facets of child development. Buttressing this all-round development is the school intake, since in government schools, there is a blurring of class structures. The private schools mostly or almost totally cater for the more opulent, and that by itself, even barring actual academic results, sets the stage for a class society, from which government wants to shield its people.

If the rich continue to avoid the government schools, they are sending a message of discrimination. This is a huge disadvantage for student development and it is very subversive to the idea of “one people, one nation, one destiny.” It is quite the antithesis to an egalitarian society. When it comes to a qualified teaching staff, government schools come way ahead. It may be flippantly said that the private schools are getting better results, but a few checks have shown that many private schools were and will be able to come off with star performances, but not constant and consistent results. The mean in the government schools

remains quite favourable overall when placed alongside what are the disparity and range in the private settings.

We should note too that the trained and qualified teachers, who operate in the private system, are derived compliments of the government of Guyana, whether by virtue of time offs or stipends during training days. This says that private schools are not yet ready to launch their own programmes in terms of a college or any institution where they can produce their own.

The fact is that government is losing big on having their trained personnel perform for private institutions. The cost factor is immense as we are sure that even collectively, the private schools will not be able to set up a college for teachers, much less staff it.

We make of this that government must work on a new contract that requires private institutions to come through it, paying some kind of fee for seeking to recruit its well trained teachers. If sporting clubs have to pay heavily to buy over contracted players, it seems justifiable that academic institutions should.

Yours sincerely, Name withheld by request

Page Foundation

Getting involved at your child's school

Whether children are just starting kindergarten or entering the final year of high school, there are many good reasons for parents to volunteer at school. It’s a great way to show your children that you take an interest in their education, and it sends a positive message that you consider school a worthwhile cause.

Many schools now have to raise their own funds for activities and supplies that once were considered basic necessities, and parent volunteers are essential to organising and chaperoning these fundraising events and other school activities.

Reasons to get involved

Parent volunteers offer a huge resource and support base for the school community while showing their children the importance of participating in the larger community.

Not only will the school reap the benefits of your involvement — you will, too. By interacting with teachers, administrators, and other parents on a regular basis, you’ll gain a firsthand understanding of your child’s daily activities. You’ll also tap into trends and fads of school life that can help you communicate with your children as they grow and change.

Even if you have not been involved in the past, it’s never too late to start. In fact, it may be more important than ever to get involved when children reach secondary school. Some parents may experience “volunteer burnout” by the time their children enter high school or decide that the schools don’t need them as much then.

Finding the right opportunity

One of the best starting points for getting involved is a parent-teacher conference. These are usually scheduled early in each school year, and are a great opportunity to approach your child’s teachers or principal about volunteer involvement.

If you have something to offer, or if you just want to help out in whatever way you can, discuss the possibilities with teachers. It’s also a good idea to join the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).

Here are just some of the ways a parent volunteer can help: mentor or tutor students; help children with special needs; volunteer in a school computer lab; help organise, cater, or work at fundraising activities such as bake sales; help to plan and chaperone events that take place at and away from the school; organise or assist with a specific club or interest group (if you have an inter-

est in an activity that is not currently available to students, offer to help get a group started — for example, a chess club or cycling team); work as a library assistant or offer to help with story time or reading assistance in the school library; or hold a workshop for students in trade or technical programmes.

Remember that not everyone is suited for the same type of involvement — you may have to “try on” a number of activities before you find something that feels right. If you’re at a loss for how you can help, just ask your child’s teacher, who will likely be glad to help you think of something!

Questions to ask

When you offer to help out, find out how much of a time commitment is expected and if it will be ongoing. Be sure to ask if any financial costs are associated with your volunteer activities. If you’re chaperon-

ing a field trip, for example, find out if you’ll be required to pay for transportation and admissions costs. Ask if you’ll need to transport students in your own vehicle or if a school bus will be provided. If you’re organising or helping out with an activity that will take place off the school grounds, be sure to find out if there are any specific school regulations you need to keep in mind or any liability issues you should consider.

Getting started

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when signing up to volunteer: Make it clear before you begin just how much time you’re willing to volunteer. Don’t be afraid to say no if you’re being asked to do more than you feel comfortable with — just try to say it early enough so that someone else can be found to take your place.

Start small

Don’t give your child special treatment or extra attention when you’re volunteering at the school. Follow your child’s cues to find out how much interaction works for both of you.

Get frequent feedback from the teachers and students you’re working with. Find out what’s most and least helpful to them, and ask what you can do to make the most of the time you spend on school activities. It’s important to keep the lines of communication open among teachers, administrators, students, and volunteers, and to be flexible and responsive as the needs of the students and the school change. (kidshealth )

Talking to your child’s preschool teacher Part one

Enrolling your little one in preschool can bring many questions: How well will my child adjust to preschool? Will my child make friends? Will the teacher understand my child?

Establishing and maintaining an open, clear channel of communication with the preschool teacher can lessen many parental concerns.

Getting to know the teacher

When you talk with the teacher, ask about a typical day. You may also want to ask specific questions, such as, “If my child came into class crying one morning, how might you handle that?” or “How do you deal with a child who hits others?” Other useful questions might include how the teacher handles discipline, temper tantrums, toilet teaching, biting, or other preschooler concerns.

A teacher’s answers can help you evaluate how creative he or she might be in responding to everyday classroom dilemmas.

You can also learn a great deal from how responsive a teacher is to your questions. If the teacher appears defensive, uncomfortable, or uninterested while replying, that could signal future communication problems and may mean that the teacher and preschool aren’t right for your family.

Parent-teacher conferences

Some preschools schedule meetings during the year to discuss the children’s developmental and behavioural progress. Usually, these conferences cover play style and social, language, cognitive, and physical development.

A parent-teacher conference should be the time for listening and communicating openly. If your child’s teacher has prepared a formal report for the meeting, let him or her go through it before asking questions.

Most of the time, a preschool teacher will emphasise a child’s strengths. But the parent-teacher conference also offers an opportunity to point out areas that children might need to work on. For example, a teacher may suggest writing letters, stringing beads, or practising cutting skills at home to improve fine motor skills.

If the teacher has concerns about your child, try not to become defensive — this could make the teacher hesitant to discuss any problems for fear of confrontation.

Try to ask direct and focused questions, with the assumption that any problems raised are ones that can be solved. Because of the limited time of most parent-teacher conferences, however, it might be useful to schedule a future time when any troublesome issues can be discussed in more detail.

No inquiry needed into education system – Dr Luncheon

The call by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry into the education system has been rejected by the government, which said there is no need for such a probe.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said there is no need for an inquiry to be launched into the education sector. According to him, the opposition has access to all critical information pertaining to the education system dating back to the days when the People’s National Congress led the country, from 1964 to 1992. Additionally, he said, information is readily available from the time the People’s Progressive

Party/Civic took control in 1992. “The documentation exists for the sustained investments that have been made... these results that we are seeing is not a miracle but work, concrete work that has been done, by successive PPP/Civic administrations in this sector... the pumping of money, the implementation of national strategic plans,” he said.

The Cabinet secretary pointed out that Guyana has already achieved the Millennium Development Goal on universal primary education. This achievement, he said, did not occur by chance but rather through investment and sustainable programmes. He opined that the APNU should join with the government in praising Education Minister Priya

Manickchand for the major steps made in the education sector.

“If the detractors, including APNU, were in a balanced way to put their prejudices behind them, they would, they should, they cannot help but join Cabinet in commending the minister for the work that has been done and the work for even more plans,” Dr Luncheon said.

During the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, the education minister came in for high praise for the sector’s outstanding performances during the 2013 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE). Minister Manickchand was urged to sustain the good

work, even as the ministry pursues universal secondary education in the country.

Last week, APNU Chairman David Granger advocated for an inquiry to investigate the state of education in the country. According to him, the call was made based on the results of the CAPE, CSEC and the National Grade Six Assessment exams.

He also opined that children are not adequately equipped with the necessary attitudes and abilities to thrive during adulthood and to operate in the world of work. Violence in school, inappropriate conduct of teachers, and poor performances in the hinterland communities were among issues highlighted by the opposition.

Man, woman in court for abusive language

Michael Paul and Chandranie Baldeo appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday charged with using abusive language to each other.

They both pleaded not guilty to verbally abusing each other on August 28 at Shell Road, Kitty, Georgetown.

Baldeo, who was unrepresented, told that court that she is 51 years old with a fixed place of abode at Lot 1 C Shell Road, Kitty and is a customer service agent for Banks DIH at OMG restaurant. She claimed that Paul had previous matters in court for which he was found guilty. She indicated that she was proceeding with the matter.

Paul was also unrepresented and told the court that he is a 39-year-old skilled worker with a fixed address of Lot 4 First Street, Alberttown, Georgetown. He told the court that he was on his way to the market when Baldeo saw him and started to verbally abusing him. He said he did not utter a word to her in return, but made his way to the police station where he made a report. However, he said he would not like to go ahead with his matter.

There were no objections to bail put forward by the prosecution and Magistrate McGusty granted both parties bail in the sum of $10,000 each. The matter is set to return to court on September 5.

Pardnahs in crime

Old people does use de phrase “pardnahs in crime”. It simply mean that when people ready to do wrong tings dem does gang up together. Over de years, de phrase get popular and plenty people start usin it – even de young people nowadays does use it. Well, it gotta lotta pardnahs in crime around de country. Most of dem does do dem dutty wuk in pairs. And in each case, one pardnah can’t do wid out de other. One pair is Suru and Duru. Dem does operate from a mud paper, which does gotta apologise all year round to some body. When is not to de police, is to de people. Sum times it does be to de guvament and sum times even to people who writin letter.

That is because Suru does tell Duru whah lies fuh write. Well, Duru know fuh write lies good, because is since de PEE-N-C days he used to write lies. But de problem is that Suru don’t know fuh read good, so he does don’t know from goat to bull foot whah does end up in de mud paper.

It also gotta pair of old Rams who does like fuh play butt-butt wid one another. One does butt de other and de other does butt back when he done. Dem old now so dem don’t butt fuh long. But long ago when dem was young, dem both used to butt a lot more –– and wid plenty more pardnahs in de same crime.

Then, of course, yuh have Green Jah and Green Bridge in de House and Green Ham and Green Case in GT de Garbage Town. One pair of Greens is a big mess fuh de de **ity, and de other pair of Greens is an even bigger mess fuh de whole country.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling...friend tell friend...mattie tell mattie! De newest pardnahs in crime on de block is Ducktor Rose and Hardish Singh. Dem tryin to do a lil bit of whah all de other pardnahs doin, but de Ducktor seh Hardish not hard enough!

Meadow Brook man released on bail for wife assault

AMeadow Brook Gardens resi-

dent appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday after he was charged with assault causing actual bodily harm.

It is alleged that on August 27 around 06:00h Quincy Andrews, 36, of Lot 138 Sliverballi Street Meadow Brook Gardens, assaulted his wife, Simone in their home, causing her actual bodily harm. The taxi driver pleaded guilty with explanation to the charge read against him.

The defendant, who was unrepresented, told the court that on the day in question, someone came to his house after midnight to return money that Simone had lent them.

He stated that he became annoyed and she hit

him in the head with a bottle and that was when she fell down. He stated that he did not do anything to her.

Based on his explanation, a not-guilty plea was entered on his behalf.

The prosecutor did not object to bail, but asked that the defendant be placed on a bond and made to move from the home where his wife is living. The defendant said that he had no problem moving, since he did not want to be around the virtual complainant anymore. He stated that he will stay at a friend’s house in North East Housing Scheme.

Magistrate McGusty granted Andrews bail in the sum of $25,000, and he was also placed on a bond pending the outcome of the matter and is to vacate the house. An arrest warrant was also issued for Simone Andrews.

President to attend UNASUR summit in Suriname today

President Donald Ramotar is scheduled to join his fellow Latin American heads of state in Suriname for the Summit of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) today.

Ahead of the engagement was a meeting of foreign ministers of the 12-member group on Thursday to discuss a number of important issues.

The gathering of UNASUR leaders at the Royal Torarica Conference Room in Paramaribo will focus on the reinstatement of Paraguay to the group and homage to the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, the Government Information Agency (GINA) said.

Paraguay’s membership in UNASUR was suspended after the controversial ousting of its fourterm President Fernando Lugo by the Paraguayan senate in June last year, and only a satisfactory outcome of the country’s April 2013 elections could have determined whether or not a return to the group was imminent.

President Donald Ramotar

groups on human rights and youth affairs, statements of the Falklands/ Malvinas Argentine claim, the Middle East situation, and the peace process in Colombia.

UNASUR is an intergovernmental union integrating two South American trade blocs; Mercosur (a regional trade agreement among Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) and the Andean Community of Nations (a trade bloc comprising Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru).

Participating nations of UNASUR are Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and Chile.

Police issue wanted bulletin for Albouystown murder suspect

More than a week after Tolasicy “Talo” Marshall, 28, was stabbed to death in Albouystown, Georgetown over jewellery, the police have issued a wanted bulletin for the main suspect in the murder.

Among the other issues to be addressed are the development of a strategic vision for UNASUR, the institutional strengthening of the secretariat, the establishment of work

The elections ended with Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara of the Colorado Party being elected. He is expected to be in attendance as the UNASUR summit gets underway.

Guyana chaired UNASUR for the first time after hosting a summit of heads of state in November 2010. Six months later, Columbia’s Maria Emma Majia Velez was installed as secretary general, a position which had been vacant since the passing of former Argentine President Nestor Kirchner, late husband of Cristina Kirchner, the incumbent president.

Cabinet approves several contracts

The National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) building, which was burnt down during the 2012 Linden Protest will be reconstructed at the cost of $18.2 million. The rebuilding of the facility at Wismar, Linden is among 10 projects that received Cabinet’s no-objection during its weekly meeting on Tuesday.

In the agriculture sector, Cabinet granted its no-

objection for the construction of a drainage pump station at Enterprise, East Coast Demerara to the tune of $134 million.

Additionally, a greenheart timber revetment will be erected at the East Demerara Water Conservancy at Lama.

Approximately $20 million has been allocated for the initiation and successful completion of the project.

In the area of public works, the roof of the

National Assembly will be rehabilitated to the tune of $31.7 million.

Rehabilitative works will also be executed on sections of the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway at the cost of $57.5 million.

A whopping $135 million has been allotted for the acquisition and supply of spares for motor vessels in the marine sector, while under the Local Government Ministry, Lethem, Region Nine will benefit from a

$25.9 million asphaltic road. Tractors, trailers, ploughs, and harrows will be procured at the cost of $37.5 million for hinterland communities.

Additionally, $28.6 million was allocated for the procurement of school uniform materials and sewing materials for the hinterland communities. Finally in the education sector, the Mahaicony Secondary School in Region Five will be extended using $15.6 million.

U.S. State Department, Port Miami to cooperate on Caribbean security issues

The United States State Department has signed a partnership agreement with Port Miami aimed at enhancing port security in the Caribbean.

As enforcement pressures increase against drug traffickers in Mexico and Central America, Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, William R Brownfield said on Wednesday that it was logical that criminals will try to resurrect old drug routes through the Caribbean. He, therefore, urged regional governments to begin preparations to combat the threat.

Although the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has signed more than 60 such partnerships with

state, county and local entities in the past few years, the Miami agreement is the first inked with a port authority.

Brownfield was quoted in the Miami Herald as saying that his goal is to build such partnerships and relationships now, so that as “the inevitable laws of market economics” come into play in 2014 to 2016 with traffickers seeking the paths of least resistance, “we’re not caught with our pants down’’.

Drug trafficking

The Caribbean drug trafficking routes of the 1970s and 1980s are “gray-haired in some respects’’, but “they are still around and will begin to look more attractive’’ to traffickers, as law enforcement puts more of a squeeze on Central American routes,

he said.

Under the arrangement, Port Miami, a hub for Latin and Caribbean travel and trade, would provide training and mentoring on anticrime and port security matters to its counterparts in the Caribbean. The specifics of the assistance are still subject to negotiation and costs for the programme will be covered by the INL. But in broad brush strokes, the partnership would give ports in the Caribbean access to the technology, experience, and personnel at Port Miami.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Miami was at the centre of the Caribbean drug trade. “We have been there before and we did learn some lessons,’’ said Brownfield. Among the things, Brownfield said, Miami can share with its

counterparts is its expertise in cargo container inspection and control programmes. When such programmes work, he said, “they work for everyone’’, eliminating long port delays that can tie up shipments for two to three days as inspectors search for drugs and other contraband.

If ports around the Caribbean have better procedures and better inspection techniques, Brownfield said that will help Port Miami to function more efficiently. Brownfield said he wanted to communicate to officials at Caribbean ports that “if you want your port, tourism and cargo to flourish and grow, it’s in your interest to have a port that’s compatible’’ with one of the largest ports in the southeast United States.

Muammar Jabbar, of Lot 33 James Street, Albouystown, Georgetown is wanted by the police for questioning in relation to the murder of Marshall.

The police, in a release, called on anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Jabbar to contact them on telephone numbers 225-6411, 226-6978, 226-7065, 227-1149, 226-7476, 911 or at the nearest police station. All information will be treated with strict confidence, the police added.

Marshall, of D 11 Hogg Street, Albouystown, was stabbed twice to the left side of his chest some time around 11:00h on August 20 at School Street, Albouystown.

After the stabbing incident, Marshall was rushed

to the Georgetown Public Hospital by his twin brother and he subsequently succumbed while receiving medical attention. Marshall was a diamond miner and was also employed with Barama. It was reported that the murder suspect owed the now deceased man $250,000 which he had given to him to make some jewellery. After some time passed, Marshall decided to enquire about the jewellery which led to a confrontation during which he was asked for another week to produce the jewellery. Marshall returned in one week to collect the money or the jewellery and upon seeing the suspect, he pulled a chain from Jabbar’s neck, informing him that he was taking it as a part payment, requested the remainder of his money and left. The following day Marshall was walking along the road when Jabbar ran out of his yard armed with a knife and stabbed him twice from behind.

Road safety bodies donate marshalling wands to Leonora Police Station Toy gun bandits strike in Corriverton

The Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC), in collaboration with its West Demerara affiliate, on Thursday donated a quantity of marshalling wands to the Leonora Police Station.

According to West Coast Demerara Road Safety Council President Shab Hack, the donation is aimed at empowering the traffic department to make the roads safer.

ment.”

Noting that the commuters’ complaints of arbitrary hikes in fare, particularly at night, is something he would like to tackle collaboratively, the commissioner stated: “I urge commuters to make complaints to the police station and we will look into it.”

He emphasised, “I hope we can work together with the authorities and the minibus association to fix these issues, because it has become burdensome on the everyday working-class commuters.”

Three men armed with a hammer and what is now believed to have been a toy gun terrorised two watchmen attached to a Corriverton service station in the wee hours of Thursday after which they escaped with a quantity of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) phone cards and mobile phones.

wearing black and white rags over their mouths and noses, and one was sporting long brownish hair.

One man reportedly placed the gun to Mendonza’a stomach and demanded that he hand over the cash, while another dealt Ibrahim to lashes to his head with the hammer, resulting in him falling to the ground.

The road safety council president noted that the committee hopes to continue working in collaboration with the Leonora Police Station’s traffic department in various areas to ensure that commuters are safe.

“We are mainly focusing on road signs on the West Demerara, because we have

“We are always grateful to help in any way we possibly can to assist the police officers with their job and keeping the road safe for commuters,” said Hack. “We have recognised that the police are ill-equipped to do the work they are mandated to do, and we have decided to play a little part to assist them as much as possible.”

recognised that without signs, in the night it is very dangerous.” He continued, “We are trying to also fill pot holes and place as many signs as we can around turns and assist in whatever way we can.”

Collaboration

Also speaking at the handing over ceremony was acting E Division Commissioner Errol Watts, of the Leonora Police Station. He said, “We are grateful for the assistance of the committee and hopes that this will not be the last one made to the traffic depart-

The Leonora Police Station traffic department thus far has made 48 charges of drunk driving to be read before the court. The GNRSC has stated that continuous education on road use and traffic regulations would help win the fight to reduce road fatalities. The body had also called on government and the private sector to come onboard in providing this education and other interventions to make the roadways safer. It is urging all road users to always practise the five Cs of road safety – Care, Caution, Courtesy, Consideration, and Common sense when using the roadways.

The national road safety council continues to appeal to all road users to exercise care, stating that every death on the road is unwanted. It also encourages the public to become volunteers in the council to ensure all are involved in making Guyana’s road ways safer.

The alleged robbery was committed on Shazim Ibrahim of Lot 15 Queenstown, Corriverton, Berbice, at approximately 01:30h by the three masked men who relieved him of one Sony Ericsson mobile phone valued $60,000 and $50,000 in cash, along with $20,000 in GT&T phone cards.

Information reaching Guyana Times revealed that Ibrahim is employed as a pump attendant at the said gas station and was in the company of Tommy Mendonza, another watchman when the attack was carried out. Mendonza was making checks on the building when he was confronted by the three men on bicycles. They were reportedly

The long-haired bandit then reached into Ibrahim’s pockets and removed the mobile phone, money and phone cards. The bandits made good their escape on their bicycles through a cross street. The two traumatised watchmen raised an alarm and the police were summoned. Upon arrival, the police conducted a search in the area which led to the arrest of one man who was found with a toy gun in his possession. Ibrahim was taken to the Skeldon hospital where he was treated and sent away.

The police are grilling the suspect to find out the names of the other two men as the investigation continues.

Guyoil awards employees’ children with bursaries

The Guyana Oil Company Limited (Guyoil) held its annual presentation of bursary awards, with nine employees’ children who were successful at the 2013 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examination being rewarded.

The presentation ceremony was done on Wednesday at the company’s head office on Waterloo Street. According to a release from Guyoil, Human Resources Officer Jean Cumberbatch, in making the presentations, urged the students to take their studies seriously and to make good use of the opportunity and assistance given for them to pursue their secondary education. She also encouraged them to stay focused while working towards achieving their academic goals. Cumberbatch

recognised their successes after years of hard work and was very proud to present the awards on behalf of the company.

Parents who were also present at the function were charged to ensure that their children attend school regularly, their school work is examined as regularly as possible, and time is set aside for homework and studies. The parents were also encouraged to keep in touch with the school teachers.

Congratulations and best wishes were extended to the children for success in their education at the secondary level and beyond.

The 2013 bursary awardees were: Regina Lynch –daughter of Robert Lynch/ Gaitree Gangadin (operations assistant/confidential secretary, operations department, head office);

Kiana Samuels – daughter of Yonetta Samuels ( shift supervisor, Palmyra Service Station, Berbice) ; Anoop Muthu – son of Seemamol Muthu (supervisor , internal audit department, head office); Sarafina Williams – daughter of Carlotta Nedd (cashier, Kitty Service Station); Chavez McIntosh – son of Roslyn Austin (pump attendant, Sheriff Street Service Station); Johnathan Jordan – son of Ivor Jordan ( armed guard, security unit, head office); Chandanie Khusial –daughter of Khusial (baton guard, security unit, head office); Shemar Aaron – son of Michelle Aaron (pump attendant, Kitty Service Station); and Tenisha Johnson – daughter of Melissa Johnson (pump attendant, Providence Service Station).

First credit bureau gets licence to operate

The Bank of Guyana on Thursday officially presented Guyana’s first credit bureau with its licence to operate here.

Creditinfo, out of Iceland, will now allow Guyanese easier access to financing. The licence was handed over to the credit bureau during a ceremony at the Bank of Guyana, with the stakeholders present.

The granting of the licence followed a lengthy selection process that reviewed four other requests from international operators. According to Central Bank Governor Lawrence Williams, the need for a credit bureau in Guyana stemmed from the Financial Sector Assessment Programme of 2005/2006 and the Economic Summit of 2007.

“It was posited that deficiency in credit information is a significant contributory factor to the prevailing low level of bank intermediation. Attention was drawn to the difficulties faced by small and medium enterprises with limited or no acceptable collateral and the large segment of the population that is unable to access credit due to the absence of reliable credit history,” he stated.

Credit reporting industry

As such, legislation was drafted and enacted in 2010 to provide for the establishment of a credit reporting industry to facilitate the provision of information about potential borrowers from a credible source.

Following the implementation of the new act, “the task of operationalising a bureau commenced with the Bank of Guyana inviting six international credit bureau operators to submit “requests for solu-

tion”.

Williams pointed out, “The aim is to enable more reliable, competitive and responsible lending while protecting borrowers’ rights”. The bureau is, therefore, intended to compile a credit history of consenting consumers, consisting information from credit providers such as banks, trust companies, hire purchase companies, and public utilities among other institutions.

Milestone achievement

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who gave the feature address at the presentation ceremony, welcomed the new initiative for Guyana, noting that it signals a milestone achievement for the financial sector. He said it will allow goods and services providers and other potential borrowers increased access to loans for investment.

Dr Singh added that given the fact that a number of financial institutions are looking for good lending opportunities and borrowers are seeking easier financing, the credit bureau will now fill that gap, providing a medium through which both parties’ needs are met.

“If you speak to most of the licensed financial institutions in Guyana, they will say to you that they are looking for good lending opportunities. If you speak with … the producers of goods and services in Guyana, they would say to you that improved access to financing would perhaps be one of the most significant contributors to accelerated growth and expansion,” the minister highlighted.

In this regard, he noted that there was extensive room for more efficient intermediation of the financial resources held by financial institutions in

Guyana. The finance minister believes that a significant part of the population has developed strong and responsible credit track records.

As such, he noted: “The establishment and coming

into operation of a credit bureau will significantly improve the ease with which persons and institutions will be able to access credit in Guyana [and] the ease with which financial institutions and potential

lenders would be able to verify credit worthiness.”

World-class service

Creditinfo’s Senior Manager of Group Business Development, Kristinn Orn Agnarsson said his company stands ready to serve the Guyanese populace with world-class service.

He said Guyana is the 16th country to which Creditinfo has expanded its services.

“Based on the framework that Guyana has now in place, the stage is set for a very successful venture that will contribute valuable benefits to consumers, companies, entrepreneurs and the economy as a whole,” he noted.

Agnarsson added that bankers will have more accurate information to make credit decisions.

Creditinfo Guyana Chief Executive Officer Judy Semple-Joseph pointed out that the entity is still in the

processing of signing on financial institutions for its services.

“To date, we have signed five and we’re in the process of negotiating with four others who are close to signing and eventually we hope to have at least 12 agencies on board by the end of September,” she stated.

Semple-Joseph said Creditinfo has been enlightening banks, over the past few months, on its subscriber agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of their involvement. According to her, each customer is entitled to one free report per annum, with each additional report costing $1000.

The licence for the newly-established business was signed on July 15. Creditinfo is located at 267 B New Market Street, Georgetown and will go into operation in September, but will officially open to the public on December 1. (leanab@guyanatimesgy.com)

“We’ll fix what needs fixing” – Manickchand promises

during visit to President’s College

Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Thursday installed a new board of governors at the President’s College (PC), promising to fix what needed fixing at the East Coast Demerara institution, while asserting that the school will remain true to its founder’s vision.

Manickchand made the announcement while addressing the school’s orientation ceremony amid complaints that government has allowed the residential facility to deteriorate. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) report, Manickchand said PC remains true to its founder’s vision of being an institution of quality that produces elite persons based on their capacity to serve, and the government of the day is committed to ensuring that the school remains one of excellence.

The minister said, “… this vision remains true today, this is a school of excellence and its records over the years would show that the students who have come in here have groomed themselves and have been guided to be the best that they can be.”

She told the new batch of PC students that it was now up to them to grasp the opportunity and commit to becoming the best that they can be. “You are at a special place in your lives as students: you are entering high school in one of the most exciting times in the history of our country, where much is happening and we are at the verge of takeoff and you get to be a part of it,” she advised.

Significant growth

Minister Manickchand pointed out that since the establishment of the institution in 1985, there has been significant growth and highlighted that the institution, which offered 11 subjects at the then Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) now Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations in its founding year, at present offers 29 subjects.

“I want when we look back 10 years down the road that we must say that they were only offering 29 subjects, 10 years ago… while right now President’s College is the best that it has ever been, when we go

forward this must not be the standard that we measure ourselves by,” she said.

School’s performance

Minister Manickchand also called attention to the school’s performance over the years, and saluted the teachers in this regard. Over the past five years (20072012), 100 per cent passes in grades one to three were attained in 14 subjects, 99 per cent in three subjects, over 90 per cent in five subjects, over 80 per cent in four subjects, and over 70 per cent in two subjects. The school’s lowest overall performance in a subject over the last five years has been in French, which has gradually increased from a low of 20 per cent pass rate in 2007 to 100 per cent in 2012.

Reiterating that PC is still a school of distinction, Minister Manickchand also reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that it remains that way. In Budget 2013, government provided just over $242 million in allocation for the school, translating to a $391,000 investment in 2013 for each student.

She admitted that there are some works to be done

Pastry vendor lands in court for damaging windows

Apastry vendor who said he accidentally broke a window was on Thursday released on $10,000 bail by Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after he appeared to answer a damage to property charge.

Ian Subryan, 32, of Lot 19 Independence Boulevard, Albouystown unlawfully and maliciously damaged three windows valued $10,000, property of George Carrington, on August 6 at Sixth Street, Alberttown, the court was told. The defendant pleaded guilty with explanation

to the charge read against him. Subryan, who was unrepresented, told the court that he gave a woman who lives on Sixth Street something to keep and on that day, he was knocking on her window when he fell and broke it.

He said the woman came out of the house, and hit him while he was picking up the broken pieces. The defendant stated that he told the woman he would buy the window back, but she went to the station and made a report. He added that the other windows Carrington was speaking of were at the back of the yard and both

were broken long before this incident occurred.

Based on his explanation, a not-guilty plea was entered on his behalf.

According to the facts, the defendant was behaving disorderly and when spoken to by the virtual complainant, he became annoyed and threw an object at the windows. The matter was reported, and Subryan was later arrested and charged.

There were no objections to bail put forward by the prosecution, and it was set in the sum of $10,000. The matter is to return to court on September 5.

on the school and announced plans to resuscitate the farm, to provide extra-curricular activities for students, and to service the school’s kitchen. There is a plan also to improve the school ground and pavilion, which were affected by the 2005 flooding. “Are there things to fix? Yes, there are things to fix. Is this a school of excellence? Yes, it is,” she said.

PTA Minister Manickchand stressed the need for parents to play their part in the education of their children, advising that being involved means attending the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meetings and monitoring their children to ensure they are committed to their studies.

“We could give the finances… but we need desperately this partnership of government, school administration, teachers, students, parents, community members, PTA, and old students’ associations if we are to make President’s College better than it is today… Government is committed and we are committing again that the school will remain one of excellence … we will

provide the resources that are necessary,” she said.

When PC was established in 1985, only the top two per cent of students were offered a place at the school. In or around 1994, the school began to accept non-residential students who lived within the school’s catchment area and who had the required entry score.

Later, the school opened its door and dorms to those students who excelled from Regions One, Two, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, and 10. From an enrolment of 65 students in 1985, the enrolment rose to 600 in 2012.

Toussaint Boyce, who was among the first batch in 1985, was there Thursday to speak to the new students. He advised them of aspiring to be more than simply existing in PC and to use their sojourn there as an opportunity to build character and a bright and elite future.

Boyce was also adamant that PC was still relevant and important to Guyana catching up with the rest of the world in terms of education development. He urged the students to seize the opportunity and to understand that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity being giv-

en to them to attend a school where there is so much diversity. He advocated that this would bring out the best in them as Guyanese, making them broadminded and tolerant to every view and every race of people.

New board

The new board of governors that was constituted with effect from July 11 and which will serve for a period of two years includes Dr Mahendra Sharma (chairman), and Francesca Vieira (deputy chairman). Other members are: Region Four Education Officer Jennifer Bourne, local media operatives Kwesi Isles and Michella AbrahamAlly, Guyana Teachers Union representative Coretta McDonald, Child Protection Agency Deputy Director Teresa Gaimes, Agriculture Ministry personnel Aditya Persaud and Natasha Beerjit, Education Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary Genevieve Blackman, and Human Services and Social Security Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary Patrick Findlay. It also comprises a staff and a student representative and the ex-officio members, the principal and deputy principal.

President calls for calm as Colombian farm protests reach Bogota

Thousands of Colombian farmers and state workers marched through the streets of Bogota on Thursday, converging on the capital after 11 days of increasingly violent national protests against agricultural and trade policies that they say have left them impoverished.

President Juan Manuel Santos, who has been unable to end the so-called national strike that has united potato growers and milk producers with teachers and health workers, acknowledged agriculture is in crisis, but called for peaceful dissent while talks

about possible solutions are going on.

“The farm sector has been abandoned,” the centre-right president said in a televised address early on Thursday. “The protests are valid ... but via dialogue we will resolve the problems. ... We are in a storm but we will persevere.”

Protesters wearing the woollen ponchos, brimmed hats, and rubber boots typical of farmers to show their solidarity and waving banners that slammed Santos’ government, marched in 15 separate columns toward the Plaza Bolivar, where the presidential palace and Congress are housed.

The labour disputes, in which farmers have blocked roads to snarl transportation into cities, pile pressure on Santos just three months before he must decide whether to run for a second term. At the same time, the government’s tough peace negotiations with Marxist FARC rebels are creating their own contentious national debate.

“My purchase power is zero, it’s only enough to survive,” said Orlando Pamo, 50, an indigenous father of six from central Tolima province who earns less than minimum wage farming citrus and other fruits. (Excerpt from Reuters)

UN Security Council members to discuss Syria

Envoys from the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council are preparing to meet to discuss a British resolution calling for international military action in Syria after an alleged chemical weapons attack.

Thursday’s meeting was called by the Russian delegation. A similar meeting on Wednesday ended after more than an hour with no agreement.

There were signs, however, that a coalition of Western countries, including the United States, France and the UK, are nonetheless moving towards military action against

Syria after the alleged attack, which killed hundreds of people in Damascus suburbs last week.

Britain’s government has published internal legal advice which it said showed it is legally entitled to take military action against Syria, even if the Security Council blocks such action.

“If action in the Security Council is blocked, the UK would still be permitted under international law to take exceptional measures in order to alleviate the scale of the overwhelming humanitarian catastrophe in Syria,” a copy of the British government’s legal position read. It was “highly likely”

that the Syrian government was behind the attack, the document said.

The UK and the U.S. have both already dispatched planes and warships to the eastern Mediterranean.

In a debate on Thursday, however, Prime Minister David Cameron told the British parliament it was “unthinkable” that Britain would launch military action against Syria if there was strong opposition at the Security Council.

Meanwhile, Reuters news agency reported that Russia has sent ships to the Mediterranean Sea as tensions escalate. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Syrian army moves Scud missiles to avoid strike

on the 68th anniversary of Army Day, in this handout photograph distributed by Syria’s national news agency SANA on August 1

President Bashar alAssad’s forces have removed several Scud missiles and dozens of launchers from a base north of Damascus, possibly to protect the weapons from a Western attack, opposition sources said on Thursday.

The move from the position in the foothills of the Qalamoun mountains, one of Syria’s most heavily militarised districts, appears part of a precautionary but limited redeployment of armaments in areas of central Syria still held by Assad’s forces, diplomats based in the Middle East told

Reuters.

They said rebel raids and fighting near key roads had blocked a wider evacuation of the hundreds of security and army bases that dot the country of 22 million, where Assad’s late father imposed his autocratic dynasty four decades ago.

With U.S. air strikes looming in response to poison gas attacks last week on rebel-held Damascus suburbs, some of the formations on the move are accused by Assad’s opponents of firing the chemical weapons. The Syrian government blames rebels for releasing gas, but Western powers hold Assad responsible.

At the headquarters of the army’s 155th Brigade, a missile unit whose base sprawls along the western edge of Syria’s main highway running north from the capital to Homs, rebel scouts saw dozens of mobile Scud launchers pulling out early on Thursday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

India Mujahideen “top militant” arrested

Police in India have arrested Yasin Bhatkal, the alleged head of the Indian Mujahideen (IM) militant group, which has been blamed for a string of recent attacks, officials say.

The group is thought to be behind deadly blasts in the cities of Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.

Bin Laden case: CIA helper doctor to be retried

Officials in Pakistan have overturned the jail sentence and ordered a retrial of a doctor who helped the CIA in their search for Osama Bin Laden.

Shakil Afridi was charged with treason and tried under the tribal justice system for running a fake vaccination programme to gather information.

He was jailed for 33 years in May 2012 and has been held since then at Peshawar Central Jail.

Bin Laden was killed by U.S. forces in Abbottabad in May 2011.

His killing created a crisis in relations between the U.S. and Pakistan, which felt the covert operation was a violation of its sovereignty.

His cousin, Qamar Nadeem Afridi, told the BBC it was a “great development” and said the “true facts” would now come out.

Although Dr Afridi’s conviction has been overturned, his retrial will still be heard

Rwanda accuses

under tribal jurisdiction in a closed court. There is no guarantee that a similar verdict will not be reached.

What Dr Afridi did angered many Pakistanis and to release him would be politically very damaging.

The sentence was quashed and a retrial ordered, because the previous judge had exceeded his authority in handing down the sentence, a judicial official hearing Dr Afridi’s appeal heard. (Excerpt

Congo of shelling as tensions mount

Rwanda accused Congo on Thursday of shelling its territory and said it would not tolerate such “provocation”, raising fears that violence in eastern Congo could erupt into a regional conflict.

The Democratic Republic of Congo said Rwanda’s accusation was a sign Kigali wanted to intervene openly in its eastern war. Rwanda has denied accusations by United Nations experts that it covertly backs Congo’s M23 rebels.

The mounting cross-border tensions came as a newly-deployed UN Intervention Brigade, with an unprecedented mandate to crush rebel groups, entered combat alongside the Congolese army for the first time. UN officials accused the M23 of firing a shell into Rwanda on Thursday which killed a civilian.

Congo and Rwanda have fought two wars over the last two decades in Congo’s mineral-rich, lawless east. Rwanda has come under in-

tense international pressure to play a constructive role for peace in its larger neighbour after rebels seized control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, in November.

Regional mediators said they were “gravely concerned” by the escalation in violence and called for a return to peace talks. M23 rebels said they were ready for a bilateral ceasefire, but this was promptly rejected by Kinshasa. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Montana judge’s remarks about raped teen prompt outrage

AMontana judge who said a 14-year-old rape victim was “as much in control of the situation” as the man who assaulted her is under pressure to resign.

Montana Judge Todd Baugh also said the girl was “older than her chronological age”, as he handed the teacher who assaulted her a month in prison. The mother of the victim, who took her own life three years ago while the case was pending, is furious.

Judge Baugh, 71, has

since said his comments were “stupid and wrong”. Hundreds of protesters were expected to demand his resignation outside the Yellowstone County Courthouse on Thursday. A petition seeking his resignation is also being circulated.

The case began in 2008 when Stacey Rambold, now 54, was charged with three counts of sexual intercourse with a girl beneath the age of consent.His victim, Cherice Moralez, was a student at the high school where he taught in the city of Billings,

Montana.

Her mother blames her daughter’s suicide in 2010 on the distress caused by the assault and its aftermath.

Prosecutors had asked Judge Baugh to hand down a 20year prison term to Rambold, but defence lawyers said their client had suffered enough.

On Monday, Judge Baugh sentenced Rambold to 15 years in prison, with all but 31 days of the term suspended. He gave him credit for one day spent in jail. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Egypt arrests Muslim Brotherhood leader Beltagi

Hundreds of people were killed earlier this month when security forces stormed the protest camps in the capital. Among them was Beltagi’s 17-year-old daughter Asmaa.

He is in the custody of Bihar police and is being questioned, Shinde said. Reports say the 30-year-old is being brought to Delhi.

His real name is believed to be Muhammad Ahmed Zarrar Siddibappa, but he uses a number of aliases, officials say.

Bhatkal, who officials say is a co-founder of the home-grown group, is one of the most wanted men in the country. Reports say that he was detained close to the border with Nepal. “Yasin Bhatkal was arrested last [Wednesday] night in [the northern state of] Bihar,” Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde told reporters on Thursday morning.

The authorities had announced a reward of one million rupees (US$14,862) for information leading to his arrest.

Bhatkal was arrested along with another alleged member of the IM who has been identified as Asadullah Akhtar, reports said.

The group was outlawed in 2010 after Indian authorities blamed it for an attack on a German bakery in Pune in which 17 people were killed and 64 people were injured. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Leading Muslim Brotherhood figure Mohammed al-Beltagi has been arrested, according to Egyptian officials.

Beltagi, secretary general of the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party (FJP), is accused of inciting violence, state media said.

Former Labour Minister Khaled al-Azhari was also held. It comes as Egypt’s military moves against Brotherhood leaders fol-

lowing the ousting of former President Mohammed Morsi.

Prosecutors had ordered the arrest of Beltagi on July 10.

Despite the arrest order, he had appeared on an almost daily basis at the Rabaa al-Adawiyah protest camp in Cairo, which was occupied by supporters of Morsi. The former MP was often seen delivering fiery speeches on the stage.

Much of the criticism of the Brotherhood in Egypt’s media has focused on Beltagi, who is accused of being behind acts of violence allegedly perpetrated by Brotherhood members.

He has continued to call for Egyptians to rise up against the military in recorded video statements while in hiding.

Further pro-Morsi demonstrations are reportedly planned for today.

The Interior Ministry has warned that security forces have the right to use live ammunition against protesters who attack public institutions.

Brassington, Ram discuss Amaila Falls project

The

following is a summary

of

NICIL Executive Director Winston Brassington’s encounter with opposition adviser Christopher Ram on the Amaila Falls project

Some weeks ago, my team and I spent seven hours with Mr Christopher Ram, making available to him all information he requested concerning the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project.

At the end of the meeting, Mr Ram made two commitments.

Firstly, he recognised that some of the documents we gave him were still under negotiation and remained confidential. Secondly, he said that he would not make pronouncements publicly without fact-checking the data with us. This is confirmed on his website.

However, Mr Ram did not respect either of these commitments.

Firstly, he selectively circulated some confidential information. Secondly, he pronounced loudly and with great certainty in the public domain, several new statements which are not remotely based on fact. Mr Ram’s statements need to be scrutinised by anybody who feels that the Amaila Falls debate was hijacked by partisan and prejudiced interests.

Mr Ram’s maths is still wrong and spectacularly so.

I noted a recent exchange between Mr Ram and Captain Gerry Gouveia, where Mr Ram set out his latest position. The exchange between Mr Ram and Captain Gouveia is important, because it addresses the costs of Amaila Falls to Guyanese. Amaila Falls is designed to bring benefits to Guyana by reducing the cost of electricity to the taxpayer (through a reduction in the subsidy or a need to borrow to invest in electricity generation) and to the consumer (because of the

excessively high cost of electricity today).

Mr Ram correctly identified the key components of these costs to Guyanese. Taking each in turn:

Public debt

Mr Ram has finally admitted what the government of Guyana has said for a long time: there is no public debt involved in the construction or operation of Amaila Falls. Not a cent.

I hope that Mr Ram has the grace to accept that this is a massive u-turn in his public position, as for several years he has spoken about the public debt associated with Amaila.

Contingent liability

Mr Ram has also accepted the government’s long-standing statement of fact: that the only thing the government is guaranteeing is payments from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc in the event of GPL being unable to make their payments.

Considering that the government is the sole owner of GPL and that government has been injecting a subsidy into GPL over the last several years, a guarantee of this kind is fairly typical. He says “this is what accountants call a contingent liability.” Correct. It is not what accountants call a debt.

However, Mr Ram then goes on to say that “by the government’s own reckoning”, this could exceed over US$2 billion over 20 years. This is totally wrong on two levels. First of all, the scenario Mr Ram describes could only occur if GPL was unable to pay any of its bills for 20 years in a row. Surely Mr Ram accepts that this is an

NB: - Natural growth refers to the increase in demand from customers who are connected for one or more years

- New customer demand is based on the average consumption of the new consumer connecting during a normal fiscal year

- Loss reduction refers to the sales recovered as a result of LR activities

- Off-grid and Linden customers demand is derived by using historical figures and adjusting increase in demand

extremely improbable scenario. But more importantly, Mr Ram should know that this contingent liability is limited by current law to G$30 billion.

Subsidy

Mr Ram accepts the governments view that postAmaila, the subsidy paid by the taxpayer to GPL could be eliminated. This was G$6 billion last year – money that could be put to better use for the benefit of Guyanese. Since 2008, subsidies/loans have amounted to over G$38 billion.

However, perhaps to hide this new recognition, it only warrants a couple of words, buried deep inside an explanation of his position on tariffs.

Perhaps Mr Ram will have the grace to acknowledge that even under his analysis, the elimination of the GPL subsidy would significantly benefit the public finances by increasing the amount of money in the Treasury for more productive uses.

Fuel and savings

Mr Ram admits that there will be savings on fuel, but claims that these will only kick in after 12 years. This is wrong. Money will be saved on fuel from the first day the Amaila project begins commercial operations. This is easily calculated when you look at GPL’s 2012 audited statements. In 2012, GPL spent US$117 million in fuel costs to generate approximately 690 Gigawatt hours (GWh). Under Amaila, GPL will pay US$124 million to purchase 1070 GWhs of electricity. That is a 34 per cent reduction in fuel costs per unit of power for GPL at today’s fuel price. The reduction in generation costs will be even greater when other avoided costs of generation are included.

Mr Ram goes on to state that “A GPL that is not modernised and which maintains the same level of system losses and other inefficiencies will never be able to pay an annual all-in tariff of US$122 million.” And yet, in 2012, GPL paid over US$130 million in generating costs and US$117 million in fuel alone. I ask Mr Ram how can he make such a false statement when GPL will pay less for Amaila to generate power that will be 150 per cent of what GPL generates today.

Tariff

This is perhaps Mr Ram’s most illuminating contribution. Despite having the facts, Mr Ram tries to avoid the question about how much the Amaila Falls Hydropower

Project will reduce the cost of electricity to GPL. Further, Mr Ram goes on to conflate GPL’s cost of generation and selling price. It is important to juxtapose the government’s analysis with Mr Ram’s assertion. I repeat the summary of both here: Government of Guyana: With Amaila, GPL’s cost of electricity generation will come down in stages – by 40 per cent in the first 12 years; by 71 per cent for the eight years after that, and by 90 per cent for the 80 years after that, based on current fuel price projections. Therefore, the total consumer tariff will decrease significantly because of Amaila Falls. The reduction in consumer tariffs will be at least 20 per cent when the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project comes online.

Mr Ram previously said: “Based on my calculations, the tariff will be increased by 23.6 per cent.”

However, in his latest statements, Mr Ram makes some extraordinary contortions. He says (my emphasis): “allowing for a reduction in system losses and growth in demand, the inflated allin tariff GPL will have to pay Amaila, and a projected increase in the exchange rate, our conclusion was that the total revenue of GPL would have to increase by 23.6 per cent. Our projections were further based on no more subsidies from the Consolidated Fund.”

In other words, he is not answering the question of how much the Amaila project will reduce the cost – instead

he is asserting that the revenue will have to increase, and this will have a knock-on impact on the end-user tariff (as will the removal of the subsidy, which he just slips in).

Mr Ram is now claiming that GPL revenue would have to increase by 23.6 per cent. This is very different to the cost of electricity going up by 23.6 per cent which was Mr Ram’s previous public assertion. And finally, Mr Ram includes the removal of the subsidy. Of course, if GPL no longer received G$6 billion per annum, the tariff would have to increase.

My advisers have shared information with Mr Ram on the projected increase in volume of sales with Amaila. The summary of this information is already contained in GPL’s 2013-2107 Development and Expansion Plan (www.gplinc. com). The following chart was fully discussed with Mr Ram which shows sales of electricity increasing by 55 per cent between 2013 and 2017, and by 23 per cent in the last year (2016 to 2017:

The real question for Mr Ram remains – by his analysis, how much will the GPL tariff increase or decrease because of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project? Mr Ram needs to answer this question as it is the single most important benefit from the project, and warrants more than a nine-word assertion.

To help make sense of this issue, perhaps Mr Ram can address the two areas underlined in the following chart. Then we can have a more meaningful discussion about where his assertions have come from:

Component of End User Tariff Government of Guyana Christopher Ram

Cost of Electricity to GPL

Subsidy from GoG

GPL Operational Efficiency

END RESULT TO USER

With Amaila, this will reduce by 40 per cent, then 70 per cent after 12 years, then 90 per cent after eight more years.

Subsidy will be removed

GPL’s efficiency needs to be improved, with or without Amaila

End user tariffs will come down by 20 per cent in the early years of the Amaila project. Improvements in GPL efficiency through the separate modernisation project will improve these benefits

There will be an “inflated allin tariff GPL will have to pay Amaila,”

Subsidy will be removed

GPL’s efficiency needs to be improved, with or without Amaila

No comment – only GPL’s revenue will increase by 23.6 per cent

SUDOKU

thursday's solution

By Bernice Bede Osol

Emotions that you or another has been trying to tamp down will surface. You need to deal with potentially messy relationship issues with calmness and grace. Make adjustments to your work methods to ensure security.

(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Let the past be your teacher in terms of your financial security. Something you learned long ago can be used to open up a new income channel. Be innovative, take charge and move forward.

Plan an outing with someone you love. The pleasure you take in joint endeavours will encourage you to take on a new project. Plan a trip to an unusual destination for additional inspiration.

Make personal changes that will make you feel good about yourself and what you have to offer. An emotional reunion with someone from your past will bring much happiness.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

(July 23Aug. 22) (Feb. 20-March 20)

It’s a good day to wheel and deal, draw up contracts, push your ideas and form partnerships that will ensure that you reach your goals. Live fully – the sky is the limit.

(March 21-April 19)

Take advantage of your many options, but don’t exceed your boundaries. There will be a fine line between success and failure. Make your choice based on what you know, not what you assume.

(April 20-May 20)

Share information and do your best to help others. Your contribution will raise your profile and bring interesting people into your life. Partnerships and proposals look to be quite profitable.

(May 21June 20)

Listen carefully and size up the situation before sharing your thoughts on a work matter. Someone is likely to use your words against you, so don’t give them much to work with. Romance will turn your evening into an adventure.

Get together with people who share common interests. Attending an event in your community or getting together with people with past and present co-workers will lead to an opportunity.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

You’re in a cycle of quickly shifting trends, so embrace change and accept the inevitable. Sometimes a push is required to get moving in a direction better suited to your needs.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Step back and re-evaluate a relationship with a person who is trying to coerce you into something you don’t want to do. Your time is better spent with people who have your best interest at heart.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Get your facts and figures from a reliable source. Deals can be made and improvements to your living arrangements or surroundings begun. Do your own thing and avoid meddlers.

Entertainment

As the countdown starts for the hosting of Mc Neil Enterprise and Hits and Jams, “Night of Legends” billed for the Guyana National Stadium on October 19, the public is still awaiting to hear who will join international R&B Singer, R Kelly.

As always, Guyana Times entertainment has received several scoops about the event. First it was rumoured that R&B singer, Usher and Hip Hop sensation, 50 Cent will join the cast but after thinking about it, we realised that would not be realistic.

In an exclusive interview with twenty-six-yearold, Jamaican dancehall artiste, Leroy “Junior” Russell also called Tommy Lee from Montego Bay, Jamaica, he disclosed that “Uncle Demon”, as he is seen in most of his music videos is just a character.

The artiste explained that his self-described “Gothic Dancehall” style, which often features dark and Satanic-inspired subject matter, is just him being different from the other Jamaica artistes who associate themselves with various characters.

Lee added that he lives for music and creates the rhythms that match his per sonality, noting that peo ple are taking the “demon ic character” personally, whereby it should be seen as “just a character”.

“Is like Beenie Man being called a doctor but he is not a doctor; Elephant Man is not an elephant; Mad Cobra is not a cobra; Vybz Kartel is called the Devil but he is not; Bounty Killa is not a killer; Assassin is not someone who pays peo ple to assassinate peo ple so Uncle Demon is not necessarily a de mon…”

Nevertheless, Lee who originat ed from the Sparta Empire, his hometown, gained popularity as a member of the Portmore

So we went about snooping around for more details, but organisers remained tightlipped and would not reveal their master plan that is expected to wow the Guyanese partyholics. Nevertheless, we did not give up and tackled anyone in sight for information.

We finally “think” that if the name of the event deals with music legends, then there are various genres of music that are loved by Guyanese and it could possibly be one renowned person from each category.

As we know Guyanese love soca, chutney, reggae, hip hop, dancehall

Empire under the leadership of Vybz Kartel but he has recently been using the Sparta Brand name all over again.

He explained that he is originally from the Sparta Family but worked with the Portmore Empire popularly known as “GAZA” but really and truly he never left. He also slammed reports which suggested that there is a war between “GAZA” (Kartel) and “GULLY” (Mavado) since they both represent for the people of Jamaica and dancehall lovers.

Lee and Movado have performed on the same stage as recent as July in St Lucia

and others, so it means that we have to think logically.

To get the international artistes at this point, it will entail a lot of work with respect to contract signing and such, which will be timeconsuming, so we have decided to stick to performers in the region.

Guyana Times predicts that Jamaican artistes, Beres Hammond will represent the Reggae aspect while Beenie Man will represent the dancehall aspect and Machel Montano will do well in the soca category.

We just have to wait and see!!!

With respect to the “World Boss” issue; Lee is optimistic that since one of the murder charges has been dropped against Kartel, he should be released from prison by December noting that there will be no evidence for a conviction. All of Jamaica wants to see, the “Teacha” on the streets, once again.

However, Lee’s musical career began as a deejay in late 2008 at Snipa Studios in Flankers, where he recorded his first song, “Spartan Story.”

During this time, he performed as an opening act for local shows, including several from Portmore artist Vybz Kartel. Kartel, noticing that the artist was receiving positive responses from the crowd, invited him to move to Kingston and become a part of the Portmore Empire, Kartel’s music crew.

Tommy Lee Sparta, however, was reluctant to leave his family and neighbourhood, and declined the offer.

Tommy Lee Sparta’s breakthrough hit came with “Some Bwoy (Link PonWi Chain)” on the 2011 “So Bad Riddim”. Thus far, Lee has a number of hits including “Some

Sonia Noel stole the show at what was touted as the Grandeur Fashion event at Carifesta XI which was held recently in Suriname.

Bwoy,” along with followup singles such as “Psycho,” “Buss a Blank,” and “Shook (Uncle Demon)”.

Apart from all the hits, the dancehall artiste stated that his fans can expect more music from him in the future. He is working on a few songs that will definitely create some vibes on the regional and international airways.

When asked about his personal achievements; Lee told the Guyana Times that he has been a successful dancehall artiste and is loved throughout the regional and further afield and draws a young fan base, but his greatest achievements are when his songs make it on top of the dancehall charts.

He was also touched when he was asked to performed for a group of children in Europe during his tour. “I feel proud to have been given de opportunity to perform at the kids show… I was the first Jamaican artiste to be asked to perform and it meant a lot to me”.

It is recognisable that Lee has a lot of young followers and in this respect he urged them to stay focused and believe in what they want to become. “Whether you wanna be a lawyer, doctor, anything just stay positive and remember to always obey your parents… Mommy and daddy cannot do it for you, u have to do it all by yourself”.

On Monday evening last at the Royal Torarica, Paramaribo, a lineup of 15 hand-picked designers from Suriname, Trinidad, St Lucia, Belize, Haiti and Guyana presented their pieces to a sophisticated audience comprising cultural attachés, fashion cognoscentis, culture buffs and creative arts enthusiasts from around the region.

The show presented the widest assortment of couture apparel from bedazzling accessories to bohemian bags, from architectural hats to avant-garde garments, from ethnic men’s couture to exotic hand-painted textiles, but the showstopper was Sonia Noel.

“The response in Suriname at the Carifesta events has been tremendous which saw people from different countries. My showing at the Grandeur Fashion event was one of my best presentations and the audience responded from outfits one to 18… was a great feeling reconnecting with so many of my Surinamese who supported me years ago”, Noel said.

Sonia Noel stood proud as the Guyanese brands ‘Mariska’s Designs’ and ‘First Resort’ erupted on the runway with an outpouring of her legendary latticing, her perennial ponchos, her branded busters and her distinctive dresses, all celebrating her signature style.

More interestingly, she decided to incorporate the launch of her magazine, ‘Makin’ Style, at the affair.

Indeed, it was a grand affair which saw her helpers distributing the inaugural copy

of the publication to eager patrons whose resounding applause attest to her success. She was in her element as the master of ceremony requested a command performance of the style maven herself. She rose to the occasion and took to the microphone where she seized the opportunity to tell her story, her Guyanese biography of which she boasted.

“I stand before you as a testimony that little smalltown girls can have dreams and pursue them and make them a reality. I stand here beaming with pride, just as I felt when I presented on Caribbean fashion development, at the prestigious Ivy League Brown University, not only as a passionate fashion practitioner but as a daughter of Guyanese soil and a true product of my nationality”, Noel told the gathering.

Noel’s booth at the grand market attracted many with her elaborate and unique white collection and huge blown up banners of GFW and makin’ style. Patrons were always in and around the booth either to buy an outfit, inquiring about GFW or to have a autographed copy of Makin Style.

Icana boutique in Torarica Hotel already has the First Resorts line in stock and they will also be one of the outlets for Makin’ Style Magazine. Sonia Noel’s designs were also selected to outfit the closing ceremony hostess Lygia Sherida Amania and popular media personality Odette Miranda.

“This entire event is even more special because I share our Caribbean aesthetic with my regional creative arts peers as I salute the mission of Carifesta XI, – culture for development.”

Guyana Telephone and Telegraph jingle star, Shawn English has released his newest single on The Focus Project Compilation Album called “Standing Firm”; a dancehall/gospel song which was written by Dennon Lewis and himself. It was recorded at Vision Recording Studios.

The original idea for ”Standing Firm” came after an all friends hang went down at the Church of Christ instrumental (on Hadfield Street) sometime in 2010.

Shawn English stated “It was here that I was exposed to the talents of Dennon Lewis. We were just free styling and doing all sorts of crazy dancing when the track for Standing Firm (Beast Riddim) came on. I was immediately inspired and the hook was birthed”.

He further stated that a couple of guys tried their hand at some lyrical renditions but it

Twas Dennon who did the job.

“After the hang, we listened to some of the audio recorded and we decided to do a song together using the hook”.

listeners to look out for each other and it’s a catchy way to represent your faith. It’s good for fitness walks, parties, events or just regular good old

The song itself advocates for us to stand firm on the word of God despite our trials and problems. It also encourages

listening.

Along with this song, there is now a new video that further draws the fans into the World

he Red Earth Riders’ Club of Bartica will host its first grass track meet after a notable hiatus. The “Go for Gold” Karrau Motocross promises to head. The event is set for Sunday, September 1 at Big Roy’s Place, Karrau, Essequibo River. On the last day of the August holiday,

of Christ church, which is represented by Shawn E and DC (Dennon Lewis).

The video was produced by the Red Sparks Media team in July of 2013 and was prelaunched on several television stations via prime time playing and direct interviews.

The Standing Firm video can also be seen on Youtube via this link https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=YA0lxt4yPXk

It encourages viewers to stand up for what they believe in despite the negatives and obstacles that may stand in their way. Its main message is for us to hold on to God’s word because it represents truth and to live by the principles that Jesus taught us… stand up and be counted.

Copies of the focus album can be found at Matts Record Bar, Kester D’s Record Store, Giftland OfficeMax or call 6112997 to order your official copy or book the artiste.

Fifteen-year-old Dennis

Anthony Glasgow also called “Tony” and “Junior” was born in Georgetown to Kayola Duncan and Dennis Glasgow and is the last of six children.

He grew up with his other siblings Matthew, Melissa, Sallylicia, Shaumar and Jenacy in Alexander Village but prefers to spend his vacation in the countryside.

Gold medals and cash prizes are up for grabs with 10 races. The categories include 125 four stroke, 125 two stroke and ATV sport racing. There is also a memorial race in honour of Clive Welcome. The young, up and coming racer passed away in a tragic boat mishap in May.

The Red Earth Riders’ club has been hosting grass track meets in Karrau for a number of years but Vice President of the club Dave Younge said this was put on hold following the two Regattas that are held yearly in Bartica.

However, the club decided to resuscitate the Karrau Motocross and plans to make it an annual event every August. It is also expected to bring needed tourism dollars to the Amerindian village of Karrau which is located in the lower

The publisher of IZWE Corbin Media Group Inc (CMG) disclosed that there was a tremendous demand for the magazine in 2012, so they decided to produce another issue in 2013. The print quantity was also increased to meet the anticipated requests.

IZWE is a full colour magazine that was launched in 2011 – The International Year for People of African Descent. The magazine got its name from a Zulu word meaning people or nation. It chronicles the experiences of African descendants locally, regionally and internationally through historical facts and present day information.

CMG reiterated that the magazine has no racial or political agenda, and its focus remains the same – to bring forth segments of Guyana’s history to a new generation of readers. Information about the past and present is presented by knowledgeable experts and researchers on African matters. This is done in an easy to read format and complimented with high quality pictures and illustrations.

The third edition of IZWE has on its cover, a painting of three elegantly dressed women which embodies the magazine’s focus on women this year.

A sneak peek at the contents of IZWE 2013 reveals features on influential women in Guyana and the diaspora, the 1823 Slave Uprising, Queenstown, Essequibo Village, African themed fashion, the Ghana Day Committee, A glossy of terms and much more.

In a release, CMG thanked all of its sponsors and supporters who helped to make this edition possible. “It is through your vision and open-mindedness that we are inspired to work even harder to make the magazine better”, the release went on to say.

The glossy IZWE magazine is available at Austin’s Book Services, Church Street; Rubis Service Station, Mandela

Avenue, Shell Service Station, Vlissingen Road and German’s Restaurant on New Market Street for $1200. You can also contact IZWE on Facebook or call 226-0540 and 225-1738.

The young model, who is a contestant in the upcoming Mr Guyana Talented Teen Pageant, described his childhood as amazing. He started his education at Alexander Village Nursery School, then to the West Ruimveldt Primary School and in the upcoming academic school year, he will be a fifth form student in the Business Stream at Bishops’ High School.

Most of his childhood days were spent in Essequibo where he was exposed to fishing, going to the same church his mother went to, taking long quiet walks on the sea walls, among other activities. As a young child he was always loud, funny, energetic, and rather over dramatic at times, and vividly remembered being one of the chief troublemakers in his class.

Getting involved in pageantry, he noted was something that “just happened”. He said days before the auditions for the Mr Guyana Talented Teen Pageant, he received messages from a few persons encouraging him to attend the interview so jumped at the opportunity.

Thus far, pageantry has been an amazing journey which led to him meeting some of the most enriching persons such as founder of the event Pamela Dillon and Gileon James but more importantly, his fellow delegates.

One of the major challenges, he noted, is the stigma attached to males in the industry but feels that he lives to please himself. “I don’t see why I should be persecuted for the sexual instabilities of guys not even involved in this pageant. I know where I stand and stereotyping won’t bring me down”, he added.

On this note, the brazen young man expressed his intention of having four children with a beautiful

get married at the age or 25 in Anna Regina. I plan on furthering my education in International law and economics abroad, but I will definitely return to Guyana”. Glasgow explained that most of his expectations have already been met while in this pageant. “I expect exposure as a young person, I expect to bring awareness to society about male pageants and change its perception,I expect to become a better performer, I seek to boost my confidence, gain friends, become more educated, be more informed about society and issues affecting us and more importantly, to be crowned Mr Guyana Talented Teen, 2013”.

In anyone’s life there are role models but to Glasgow, he respects everyone and everything they do but his greatest inspiration is U.S. President, Barack Obama.

His advice to young men who would want to participate in pageantry is “do it and do it well… put aside what people are going to say and put forward what you want in your life. There are a lot of benefits that you will be able to experience”.

On a lighter note, his favourite colours are black or red while his favourite foods are fried rice, baked macaroni and baked chicken. He loves to look at Power Rangers Samurai but his favourite movies would include “Home Alone” and any movie done by Tyler Perry. The young man added that his favourite subjects are human and social biology, English Literature, economics and social studies.

He likes to sing, dance and be involved in nature activities.

The young man also loves social networking, and like most teenagers Facebook is his favourite. He also loves to entertain persons and to put smiles on persons’ faces especially those who are less fortunate.

He has been volunteering in various groups and organisations such asthe U.S. Embassy’s Guyana Shines Programme and their Youth Action Network, Habitat for Humanity, Witness Project, Interact Club of Bishops’ High School, Come Alive Network Inc and he is also a youth ambassador candidate with the U.S. embassy. He is also fond of debating.

friday, august 30, 2013

cAR RENtAl

Journey Inn Apartments & car rental. Rooms & car to rent from $3000 Premio, Vitz. Phone: 679-7109, 6896668, 639-4452.

Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte Street, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

hEAlth

Healthworld Holistic Centre: Psychotherapy available for all types of abnormal behaviors – addictions, emotional, suicidal, anger, relationship and sexual problems. Treatment of stress disorders, depression, fear, low self-esteem, insomnia, trauma, psychosomatic sicknesses, and children's disorders. We also conduct IQ evaluations and behavioral assessments. By appointments only. Clinic hours: 11:00 – 17:00h. Tel: 592-6210552. Email:healthworldhc@gmail. com

Ayurvedic herbal treatment for all chronic genetical /none genetical and diseases, including, HIV, Cancer, diabetic, pregnancy, sexual (weakness) etc. Phone: 685- 3220. Are you pouring on pounds? Then call Raul /Carol Wilson: 660-6818, 641-5923, 216-3016, 216-3601 for your healthy eating package.

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 3393536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 9431515 for the perfect trendy touch.

One business property, Lamaha Street. Phone 669-3313, 231-4586, 695-4382. Properties for sale. Phone: 642-2116

1 large 5-bedroom house with business. Diamond. Phone: 627-3902 SERvicES

Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 662-1247.

Repairs to LCD, LED, plasma, projection, CRT TV’s, microwave ovens, etc, ordering of circuit boards and hard to get spares, Abdul Electronics. Phone: 225-0391

Greenes Electrical Contracting Services For all electrical services contact Greene Electrical Contracting Services, we specialize in phoneS & data, CATV, CCTV, intercoms, fiber optics, fire alarms, security systemS, SVC equipments, all other residential, industrial & commercial installation. Phone 2230973, 618-3075 for safe & reliable services.

SpiRituAlity

Suriname astrology palmist and Djuka healer, the most powerful spiritualist in the world, are you suffering from the following problems - (any religions) love, marriage, family, health, business, husband and wife relationships, property, court, children, promotion, visa, pregnancy, education, depression, job, sexual, jealousy, enemy, money, drinking, also you can have all evil forces destroyed such as black magic, witchcraft, voodoo, obeyah, etc, and gives powerful protection. Private and confidential. Phone: 674-2112.

cuttiNg

Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 2253923, mobile: 621-3249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today.

7-bedroom family/students/ individuals. Bungalow for long & short term rental (local & overseas guests), facilities included, vegetarian meals available. Contact BG Real Estate Agency on: 622-7079, 220-2130.

One office space for rent at 195A Camp St, Georgetown. Phone: 6173673, 677-0073

2 bonds with 30,000 and 15,000sq ft space, with offices and residence; 15 minutes from Georgetown, ample parking. Call 647-8077/613-0567

One house located in Lamaha Gardens, hot and cold water. Call 219-4535

2 modern apartments located in Campbellville, Georgetown, hot and cold water, self-contained rooms etc. Phone: 219-4535

Retro Party @ Buddy’s Night Club on Saturday

Pulse Entertainment has been leading the way in the entertainment industry as it relates to summer swings this year. From Cooler Fete at the Guyana National Stadium which featured Machel Montano and for the first time in Guyana Drupattie, to some of the most elaborate concept parties at Palm Court.

This time around, as the summer comes to an end, the group will be host-

concept party to say goodbye to the summer and plan ahead for the future. This event is slated for the Buddy’s Night Club on Saturday evening.

It’s time to push Machel Montano and “Wuk up de Lahki” behind and get your grooves on with the new concept of thinking ahead.

This Saturday, it’s time to flirt and party as some of the best deejays will be in the house and will be selecting the right party music which includes past

lAND FOR SAlE

Parfaite Harmonie $1M and $1.2M phone: 675-7292

Dutch Spiritual work. Unite lovers, get rid of evil, enhance prosperity, good luck baths and charm bowu guards, etc. Phone: 220-0708, 6126417, 687-5653

Divinations and cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá and Khemetian spiritual guards, pendants, crystals and rune stones to help you overcome problems with love, relationships, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money and many more. Call 10:00-16:00h on: +592-690-1824. Email: anew-life@ live.com

to present funky and foxy hits.

As usual, lighting effects will be breathtaking and will set the stage for a night to talk about, even after the party would have gone by. Ladies will be admitted free before 23:00h while general admission will be $1500 before 23:00h, more after.

Remember it is “Back to the Future” Retro Party, this Saturday at Buddy’s Night Club, Sheriff Street, Georgetown.

After a summer of magnificent performances at Jamzone Summer Break 2013 Bikers Fest, Regional Super Concert, Brazilian Super Concert, Jazz Night among other great events, Hits and Jams Entertainment presents ‘Summer Farewell’.

You are invited to say goodbye to a surely memorable summer break, tonight at the original Palm Court, Main Street, Georgetown.

Entertainment will be provided by Fusion and 94.1 Boom FM DJs Gully Ras, DJ Energy, DJ Shizzle and Selector Diamond. With these guys on board, patrons are bound to have a great evening with the excellent selection of music that will keep you on the dance floor.

Admission to the event is easy. So come on out and celebrate the end of one incredible summer!!!

It is the end of a fantastic summer and to end on a high note, Club Monaco is the ideal environment to be in this Saturday for “The Hangover” party which is expected to be off the hook.

Celebrate the end of a great summer at Club Monaco with vibes from Gully Ras and Selector Carl from 94.1 Boom FM who are expected to set the place on fire with their selections of music ranging from soca to chutney to the best in dancehall and other genres of music that will surely put patrons in the right party mood.

To make the event more exciting, everyone will be admitted free before mid-

night. Relax and party the night away in the best nightclub in Guyana. Upon entry, ladies will get free tequila shots. Admission to the event is $1500 after midnight but all VIP cards are active for this event.

Hangover is sponsored by Tennessee Motor Spares, Tropiclistings.com, and 94.1Boom FM.

Be a part of the event that will end the summer on a high note and one that you will remember. Follow the light in the sky and make sure you are in the right mood for a party. Remember, what happens in Club Monaco stays in Club Monaco.

Finch stuns England with blazing 156

Aaron Finch smashed a world record 156 as Australia beat England by 39 runs in the first of their two Twenty20 internationals in Southampton on Thursday.

The opener hit 14 sixes and 11 fours in a 63-ball knock to help Australia record their first win of the summer over England and first win in 200 days.

Shane Watson’s 16-ball 37 lifted Australia to 248-6 - the second highest T20 international score.

Joe Root scored 90 not out off 49 deliveries as England ended on 209-6.

“Sometimes you have to hold your hands up, it was a magnificent knock by Finch and he won the game for Australia,” England captain Stuart Broad told BBC Sport.

“It was incredible striking and to hit 14 sixes in an innings is pretty special. It was amazing to watch but unpleasant to bowl at.

“The crowd will go home happy having seen 460 runs off 40 overs but there are 11 disappointed Englishmen that’s for sure.”

On any other night, Root and England’s effort may well have kept them in touch but Finch’s extraordinary innings left them with too tough a target to chase.

Finch, a 26-year-old righthander from Victoria, signalled his intent by pulling the first delivery he faced, from Steven Finn, to the legside boundary for six.

He brought up his second

Aaron Finch made a century from just 47 balls

few things went my way but it was nice to get on a roll,”

Finch told BBC Sport.

Hafeez helps Pakistan draw level

With the series at stake, Pakistan hit back strongly on Thursday by posting a total well beyond Zimbabwe’s reach, thereby giving the final match greater context.

Mohammad Hafeez led the way with an attacking, unbeaten 136 to lift Pakistan to 299, and although Zimbabwe had their moments in the chase, they failed to stretch Pakistan over a sustained period. A clump of wickets towards the end widened the gap between the two sides, as the margin of victory suggested.

better today, one lapse cost them plenty of runs. When on 30, Hafeez went for the slog sweep but as the ball dipped towards deep square leg, Brian Vitori was a touch too late on the dive. He couldn’t hang on and Zimbabwe were made to rue the missed chance.

Hafeez’s driving, flicking and defense against the seamers was solid and he used his feet against Prosper Utseya, lofting two sixes over long-on. He launched Elton Chigumbura over the same region as he progressed to his fifty off 65 balls.

Following Misbah’s departure - he limped to 3 off 23 balls - Pakistan had lost all their experienced batsmen, but Umar Amin stepped up to give Hafeez the support he needed. Amin looked busy at the crease, looking to push the singles and attempting the odd slog, looking on nervously at his senior partner who urged him to play straighter. Amin opened up at the start of the batting Powerplay, taken in the 36th over, clipping Utseya wide of midwicket and then launching him over cover the next ball. He found the gaps with ease through the off side and reached his maiden fifty in ODIs off just 61 balls. Pakistan smashed 43 in the Powerplay without losing a wicket, setting the platform for their late-innings acceleration.

Amin was eventually runout from a direct hit by Tendai Chatara, but not before adding a valuable 129 with Hafeez. Hafeez made sure his side didn’t lose the initiative, like they did on Tuesday with a collapse, batting positively and finding the gaps. He had all but bettered his highest ODI score (139*), made on the same ground two years ago. A blazing cameo from Shahid Afridi took Pakistan to the doorstep of 300. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

T20 international half century with a straight six and then clubbed three successive maximums and two fours off what proved to be Root’s solitary over to race into the 90s.

Finch looked set to break South African Richard Levi’s record for the fastest international T20 century - 45 ballsbut faltered for a couple of deliveries before finally bringing up his ton with a six to fine leg off his 47th ball.

Once he reached his century, Finch accelerated again, hitting a six to move past the previous international best of 123 by New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum.

He took just 13 balls to move from 100 to 150, reaching the landmark with another maximum.

But, with Chris Gayle’s T20 record score of 175 in sight, his stunning innings was ended when he chopped a slow bouncer from Jade Dernbach onto his middle stump.

“I was pretty lucky, a

“I got a little bit nervous as three figures approached and I slowed up the innings for a little bit but it was nice to carry on once I’d got the century.”

Dernbach, who was the pick of the England bowlers, then bowled Watson with a superb slower delivery and removed Glenn Maxwell (1) at the death as he finished with 3-34.

England opener Michael Lumb briefly looked like he

may follow Finch’s lead, hitting 14 off Mitchell Johnson’s opening over but he was trapped leg before wicket by the left-arm seamer on 22 to leave England 33-1.

Alex Hales (8), Luke Wright (4) and Eoin Morgan (0) all fell cheaply as England limped to 42-4 and although Root, playing his first international T20 innings, and Ravi Bopara (45) put on 95 for the fifth wicket and Jos Buttler hit a quickfire 27, they were unable to match Finch’s hitting power.

The hosts did, however, compile their second highest T20 score, six adrift of the 214 they scored against New Zealand earlier in 2013.

Australia broke the record for most sixes in a T20 innings - 18 - while the aggregate score of 457 is the highest recorded, beating a tied game between Australia and New Zealand in 2010.

Earlier on Thursday, England’s women regained the Ashes by beating Australia on the same pitch and they meet again at 10:00 BST on Saturday at Durham, ahead of the men’s second T20 match. (BBC Sport)

SCOREBOARD

England innings M Lumb lbw b Johnson 22

A Hales c †Wade b Hazlewood 8 L Wright c †Wade b Hazlewood 4 E Morgan c Maxwell b Johnson 0 J Root not out 90 R Bopara c Warner b Watson 45

J Buttler† b Faulkner 27

S Broad* not out 4

Extras: (b1, w6, nb2) 9

: (lb2, w2)

: (6 wkts, 20 overs) 248

of wickets: 1-11, 2-125, 3-226, 4-227, 5-228, 6-242 Bowling: S Finn 4-0-45-1, S Broad 4-0-47-1, J Dernbach 4-0-34-3, D Briggs 4-0-511, R Bopara 1-0-15-0, J Root 1-0-27-0, L Wright 2-0-27-0

Total: (6 wkts, 20 overs) 209

Fall of wickets: 1-33, 2-33, 3-37, 4-42, 5-137, 6-203

Bowling: M Johnson 4-1-41-2, J Hazlewood 4-0-43-2, Fawad Ahmed 4-0-43-0, S Watson 4-0-42-1, J Faulkner 4-0-39-1

Both sides, while batting, were removed from their comfort zones. Pakistan didn’t have the safety net of a steady Misbah-ul-Haq innings for the other batsmen to bat around.

A rare failure from Misbah gave Hafeez the chance to step up and guide the innings. Zimbabwe, for a change didn’t have the luxury of a solid opening stand in the face of a daunting total, and the middle order couldn’t cover the slack. Pakistan, though, responded better to the challenge.

Put in to bat, Pakistan had a better idea of the kind the score needed to intimidate a confident Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe were guilty of dropping catches in the first ODI but those let-offs, fortunately, didn’t cost them in the end. While they were relatively

Pakistan innings N Jamshed lbw b Utseya 32

A Shehzad c Maruma b Vitori 5

M Hafeez not out 136

Misbah-ul-Haq* c Williams b Vitori 3

U Amin run out (Chatara) 59

S Afridi not out 39

Extras: (lb3, w20, nb2) 25

Total: (4 wkts, 50 overs) 299 Fall of wickets: 1-12, 2-62, 3-84, 4-213

Bowling: T Panyangara 10-1-710, B Vitori 10-1-68-2, T Chatara 10-2-50-0, P Utseya 10-2-541, H Masakadza 4-0-24-0, E Chigumbura 1-0-10-0, S Williams 3-0-12-0, M Waller 2-0-7-0

Zimbabwe innings H Masakadza b Khan 24

V Sibanda c †Ahmed b M Irfan 2 B Taylor*† c Irfan b S Ajmal 79 T Maruma run out (Misbah-ulHaq/†Ahmed) 8 S Williams st †Ahmed b Ajmal 37 M Waller b Khan 40 E Chigumbura lbw b Khan 0 P Utseya b Khan 3 T Panyangara not out 3 T Chatara c †Ahmed b A Rehman 2 B Vitori c Irfan b Rehman 0 Extras: (lb6, w4, nb1) 11 Total: (all out, 42.4 overs) 209 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-42, 3-65, 4-135, 5-200, 6-200, 7-201, 8-206, 9-209, 10-209 Bowling: M Irfan 8-1-45-1, A Rehman 9.4-0-36-2, J Khan 7-215-4, M Hafeez

Bolt claims victory in Zurich Diamond League 100m

Jamaica’s Olympic and world champion Usain Bolt recovered from a slow start to power to victory over 100m in the Diamond League meeting in Zurich on Thursday.

The 27-year-old clocked 9.90 seconds to beat compatriot Nickel Ashmeade (9.94) and American Justin Gatlin (9.96).

Britain’s Adam Gemili finished eighth in a season’s best of 10.06, just outside his personal best of 10.05.

His compatriot Shara Proctor, sixth at the recent World Championships in Moscow, won the long jump with 6.88m. Bolt believed he could run under 9.80 at the Letzigrund Stadium, but that never looked likely once he had started poorly.

“I think the longer the season goes on, the worse my start gets,” Bolt told BBC Sport.

“I’ll be happy to go home at the end of the season. I thought I was fit but I wasn’t in the shape I wanted to be in.”

Gemili, 19, also rued his start, which cost him the

chance of breaking 10 seconds for the first time.

“I fell out of the blocks and lost about a tenth of a second or so,” he said. “I tried to drive out of the blocks but stumbled and had to pick myself up.

“My drive phase was limited and in a field like this you can’t do it. It is a great learning experience and I’m happy with a PB [for the season].

“It is great to come into a race like this and I now know that, if I can execute, I can do well and I will take that forward into the future.”

Proctor, meanwhile, beat all three World Championship medallists. America’s world champion Brittney Reese was seventh with a best of 6.37 while Nigerian Blessing Okagbare (6.76) and Ivana Spanovic of Serbia (6.73) finished second and third respectively, just as they had in Moscow. Meseret Defar produced a sprint finish to hold off a strong challenge from fellow Ethiopian Tirunesh Dibaba and win the 5,000m. Defar, the world champi-

on and double Olympic gold medallist, finished in 14 minutes 32.83 seconds - just over two seconds ahead of Dibaba, the triple Olympic champion, who completed the 5,000m/10,000m double in Beijing five years ago. The victory gives 29-yearold Defar a 15-11 head-to-head lead over her 27-year-old archrival in 5,000m contests. American world champion LaShawn Merritt, 27, ran 44.13 seconds to beat Grenada’s 2011 world gold medallist Kirani James (44.32) in the men’s 400m. Ukrainian world champion Bohdan Bondarenko cleared 2.33m to win the high jump on countback but the 23-year-old failed in his attempt to match Cuban Javier Sotomayor’s world record of 2.45m, set 20 years ago.

Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who became the first woman to claim the 100m, 200m and 4x100m titles at the same World Championships in Moscow, won the 200m in 22.40 seconds. (BBC Sport)

IAC calls Shewdass’ record-breaking feat a superb achievement

The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) has described the sterling performance of Guyanese powerlifter Gumendra Shewdass in the World Junior and Sub Junior Powerlifting Championships in Killeen, Texas, as a “superb achievement.”

In a release issued to the media on Thursday, the IAC said the example set by Shewdass should be followed by young people.

The 18-year-old Berbician on Monday recorded 475.5kgs en route to winning the gold medal in the 53kg sub junior class.

The 2012 runner-up Junior Sportsman-of-the-year’s closest rival was U.S.A’s Dalton La Coe, who finished a distant second with a total of 425kg in the bench press, squat and deadlift.

Shewdas’ best squat of 180kg and bench press of 90kg were below La Coe’s 182.5kg (squat), 105kg (bench press) heading into the deadlifts, but a huge lift of 205kg on his second attempt thrust the Guyanese into the lead.

With Shewdas holding the psychological advantage, La Coe only mustered a lift of 137.5kg and failed twice at 192.5kg. Russia’s Alexei Kula-kov was third with a total of 412.5kg.

The IAC said: “The IAC recognizes the superb achievement of 18-year-old,

Gumendra Shewdass, who hails from Berbice, Guyana, and calls upon all Guyanese, especially those living in rural hinterland areas, to recognise and to take inspiration of the world-class performance of Gumendra Shewdass. He recorded 475.5kg en route to winning the gold medal in the 53kg sub-junior class. He was also the 2012 runner-up Junior Sportsman-of-the-year.”

It added, “The IAC believes that the example set by ‘golden boy’ Shewdass should be followed, especially by our young peo-

ple rather than them being involved in various types of anti-social behaviour such as drug use and alcohol abuse. Strive for what you believe in and to always be the best at what you do. This is exactly what Mr. Shewdass did and he received the rewards of all his hard works. Once again, we congratulate him and all those who would have supported him, especially his parents, relatives and trainer/coach.”

Shewdass was accompanied on the trip by manager Denroy Livan.

Vickery loses to Glushko in U.S. Open

Fresh off a commanding win over Croatia’s Mirjana Lucic-Baroni on Tuesday, Sashia Vickery of the United States of America suffered a defeat of her own in round two of the U.S. Open on Thursday.

Playing in the Women’s Singles on Court Four at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, the 18-yearold of Guyanese parentage lost in straight sets, 7-5 6-3, to Israel’s Julia Glushko.

The loss ended Vickery’s campaign in the Women’s Singles, but extended Glushko’s stay in the tournament. This is 23-year-old Glushko’s second appearance at the U.S. Open after being knocked out in the opening round in 2012.

Vickery made a brilliant start to the U.S. Open on Tuesday, comfortably beating Lucic-Baroni 6-4 6-4.

It was a remarkable start to 18-year-old Vickery’s Grand Slam career, as she upstaged her more illustrious 31-year-old counterpart on Court Seven.

Vickery, who gained a wildcard entry into the U.S. Open, needed a mere 87 minutes to wrap up victo-

Sashia Vickery

ry, as she had five aces compared to Lucic-Baroni’s two.

She is the second player of Guyanese parentage to have qualified for the U.S. Open, which is the final tournament on the Grand

Wilson benefits from highperformance course in Brazil

Coach of the Police Sports Club, Lyndon Wilson is currently on a course in Brazil for high-performance athletes, sponsored through the Olympic Solidarity Fund and the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

According to information reaching this publication the training will not be specific to track and field.

In an invited comment,

Lyndon Wilson

Wilson told Guyana Times Sport via social media: “The course is excellent; Guyana is way behind the best part of the course is the sports science but the course is very good and I think it will benefit all the athletes in Guyana in the long run.

Meanwhile, Wilson is expected back home on Saturday with more knowledge to impart to local athletes and coaches.

Serena Williams cruises into third round

Serena Williams continued her US Open title defence with a crushing victory over Galina Voskoboeva of Kazakhstan on Thursday.

The top seed came through 6-3 6-0 in 69 minutes to book a third-round tie with Yaroslava Shvedova, another Kazakh.

Elsewhere, five time champion Roger Federer comfortably beat Carlos Berlocq and second seed Victoria Azarenka was too strong for Aleksandra Wozniak.

There were also wins for David Ferrer, Petra Kvitova and Ana Ivanovic, but fourth seed Sara Errani was eliminated.

Flavia Pennetta (Ita) beat Sara Errani (Ita) [4] 6-3 6-1

Fourth seed Errani admitted she felt so weighed down by pressure that she did not want to go on the court before losing to her compatriot.

Slam calendar.

Vickery had won the United States Tennis Association’s Girls 18’s tournament which guaranteed the winner a wildcard spot in the U.S. Open.

Maria Sharapova’s withdrawal meant the 26-yearold was elevated to fourth seed and she struggled to cope with it.

“I think it’s the pressure,” said a tearful Errani. “I have never been in this situation. I don’t want to go

on the court. I don’t want to go to play. I don’t want to stay there on the court. I feel very bad.

Serena Williams (US) [1] beat Galina Voskoboeva (Kaz) 6-3 6-0

The 16-time Grand Slam champion has lost just four games in two matches following her opening-round demolition of Francesca Schiavone and after easing past 77th-ranked Voskoboeva.

Roger Federer (Swi) [7] beat Carlos Berlocq (Arg) 6-3 6-2 6-1

“It might take a few matches and next thing you know you’re playing really, really good tennis again and you’re close to playing some really great tennis,” said Federer, who is at his lowest ranking since 2002.

“I think that’s kind of where I am right now, and that’s where every match is really important to me and how I play every single point.”

Caroline Wozniacki (Den) [6] beat Chanelle Scheepers (RSA) 6-1 6-2

Angelique Kerber (Ger) [8] beat Eugenie Bouchard (Can) 6-4 2-6 6-3

Bouchard, 19, has been tipped as a future star, but Kerber battled through and

remains on course for a quarter-final meeting with Serena Williams.

David Ferrer (Spa) [4] beat Roberto Bautista Agut (Spa) 6-3 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-2 His pre-tournament form was unimpressive, but Ferrer has now made it to round three or better at each of the last 15 Grand Slams.

Victoria Azarenka (Blr) [2] beat Aleksandra Wozniak (Can) 6-3 6-1 Azarenka, who beat Serena Williams at the recent Cincinnati Open, was was broken three times on a windy day - but she prevailed in a little over an hour to book a meeting with Alize Cornet of France.

Ana Ivanovic (Ser) [13] beat Alexandra Dulgheru (Rom) 6-2 6-1

Adrian Mannarino (Fra) beat Sam Querrey (US) [26] 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (5-7) 6-2

Mannarino is through to round three of a Grand Slam for only the second time, and his reward is a meeting with Roger Federer.

Querrey’s first defeat before round three at Flushing Meadows since 2007 means the highest-ranked US man left in the draw is 13th seed John Isner. (BBC Sport)

Five-year strategic plan is focus of paralympic workshop

With focus on setting the groundwork for a fiveyear strategic plan, the National Paralympic Committee of Guyana (NPCG) on Thursday commenced a three-day workshop at the Guyana Olympic Association headquarters.

The event is being conducted by Kenneth McKell of Trinidad and Tobago.

President Wilton Spencer said the ultimate aim of the workshop is to lay the foundation for a five-year strategic plan to ensure a proper structure is in place to guide the administration of the NPCG.

He said it is against this background that the local committee has solicited the services of McKell, who is the president of the Trinidad and Tobago National Paralympic Committee and chairman of the Caribbean associations.

Spencer noted that McKell has a wealth of experience in the paralympic movement and is also very knowledgeable in the formation of strategic plans.

“We hope that by Saturday when the workshop ends we would be in

a much better to formulate that stragetic plan that will lead us on the way forward.

Mr. McKell is very experienced when it comes to the paralympic movement and we will be using the next three days to brainstorm ideas with him and come up with the best possible plan,” the NPCG head explained. Spencer added that with the next Paralympic Games to be hosted in neighbouring Brazil, the possibility of Guyana participating in that event is highly likely as there are at least two ath-

letes who could qualify for those Games.

He made reference to table tennis player Safraz Gibran Hussain and cyclist Walter Grant Stuart, both of whom have lost a limb, as prime candidates to represent Guyana in the XV Paralympic Summer Games in Rio in 2016.

According to internet site, Wikipedia, the Paralympic Games is a major multi-sport international event involving athletes with a range of physical and intellectual disabilities, including mobility disabilities, amputations, blindness and cerebral palsy.

Meanwhile, McKell, during one of Thursday’s sessions, told the participants that paralympic movement is more than just persons participating in sport, but rather a dynamic field that encompasses several areas.

He noted that every ministry in the Trinidad and Tobago government has policies designed to accommodate paralympic, underlining how serious the movement is being treated by the administration there. The workshop continues today and concludes on Saturday.

Defending champions East Bank/ New Amsterdam/ Canje will clash with Lower Corentyne in the final of the Berbice Cricket Board National Communications Network Under-15 InterZone cricket competition today at the Albion Community Centre ground.

The match is expected to be keenly contested after East Bank/New Amsterdam/Canje defeated Upper Corentyne on first innings points in their semi-final. There line-up is also boosted by a number of players who represented Berbice at the Inter-County level this year, the likes of

off-spinner Joel Seetaram, batsmen Steve Deonarine and Tyrell Peters, all-

rounder Felon Crandon and wicketkeeper/batsman Kyle Michael.

On the other hand, Lower Corentyne defeated West Berbice in their semifinal game and have in their line-up two players who represented Guyana this year at the regional level - wicket-keeper/batsman Adrian Sukhwa and batsman Matthew Hardyal.

The match is scheduled to start at 09.00h and will be played under the 55-over first innings limitation rule.

Meanwhile, the third place play-off between Upper Corentyne and West Berbice is also scheduled for Friday at the No. 73 ground.

guyanatimesgy.com

BLUTC horse race meet confirmed for September 29 …registration closes September 23

The Bush Lot United Turf Club (BLUTC) horse race meet is confirmed for September 29 at the club’s facility at Sea View Park, Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice, according to coordinator Lakeram Sukhdeo.

Sukhdeo told this publication on Thursday that the meet will be held in collaboration with Inshan Bacchus Trucking Service and Jumbo Jet Jr. Seven races are listed on the day’s programme, with over $7 million in cash and prizes up for the taking, according to Sukhdeo.

The feature race will be for horses classified C and Lower and will run a mile for $1.2 million. Other events

Lakeram Sukhdeo

billed for the day are the E and Lower for $600,000 over a distance of one mile,

the Three-year-old race for animals bred and born in Guyana and the West Indies for $500,000, Two-year-old Guyana and West Indies bred horses, also $500,000, the race for the G3 and Lower for $400,000, the I and Lower for $200,000 and the J, K and L Class for $150,000.

Registration for the meet will close on September 23. Interested horse owners can make contact with Sukhdeo on telephone numbers 2320558 or 672-0810 or president R Jagit on 232-0231. Race time is 12:30h.

On the other hand, Sukhdeo said that preparation is being made to repair the fence and pavilion.

ECB 50-over tourney bowls off today

The Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) 50-over competition bowls off today with four matches across the county.

The competition is being used as the yardstick to select an Essequibo team for the upcoming Guyana Cricket Board Inter-County 50 overs tournament.

Today East Bank

Essequibo host Bartica at the Parika Salem ground, Leguan play Wakenaam at Enterprise, North battle with South Essequibo at Devonshire Castle and Central Essequibo play Pomeroon at Imam Bacchus ground.

Former national under-19 wicketkeeper batsman Kevon Boodie leads the East Bank team which also includes Trevor Benn, Jason Heyliger, Mark Braitwaite and Julio Jones. Bartica are yet to name their team.

Leguan have home advantage when they face arch-rivals Wakenaam, and will be led by Muneshwar Jattan. National under-19 player Ricardo Adams will lead the visiting team.

One of the more dominant teams of recent in the Cinderella county, South Essequibo will look to start

Guyana and T&T...

On Friday, Universal DVD Club Berbice Titans will play DCC Wolverines while the next day, overseas line-up, Suriname Tigers, take on West Demerara Mavericks.

Meanwhile, tickets are on sale at the GCB office on Regent Street for $1000. Patrons who purchase three grass mound (Party stand) tickets will receive another ticket free.

the competition on a winning note and will depend heavily on Royan Federicks, Anthony Adams, Ricardo Peters, Mark Gonsalves and Raj Parbattie. Their opponents will not be easy to get past. However, they will depend heavily on Mark Tyrell, Vishwanauth Lall, Uvindra Balgobin, Rajiv Manichand and Greyson Paul.

Central Essequibo will be favourites when they face Pomeroon. Exciting fast bowler Ronsford Beaton will lead their challenge with support from Herry and Herrell Green, Rovindra Parsram and Parmesh Parashotam, while Pomeroon will rely on Chris Williams, Andrew D’Aguiar, Sherman Austin, Kenneth DeAgrella and Eric Gomes.

The semi-finals and final will be played on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

from back page

On the other hand, regular security measures will be in place where spectators will be scanned before entering the stadium. Also, no glass bottles and weapons will be allowed into the venue. Guyana squad: Chris Barnwell, Narsingh Deonarine, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Leon Johnson, Steven Jacobs, Trevon Griffith, Paul Wintz, Keon Joseph, Anthony

Bramble, Zaheer Mohamed, Rajiv Ivan, Robin Bacchus, and Krishmar Santokie. T&T squad: Lendl Simmons, Evin Lewis, Nicholas Sookdeosingh, Jason Mohammed, Denesh Ramdin—Captain, Rayad Emrit, Imran Khan, Ravi Rampaul, Samuel Badree, Sherwin Ganga, Khesan Ottley, Nicholas Pooran, Shannon Gabriel, Navin Stewart and Adrian Barath.

Experts select Limacol CPL team of the tournament

The inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) has named its team of the tournament.

The team, a playing eleven plus a 12th, and in batting order, is: Andre Fletcher (St Lucia Zouks), Chris Gayle (Jamaica Tallawahs, captain), Lendl Simmons (Guyana Amazon Warriors), Shoaib Malik (Barbados Tridents), James Franklin (Guyana Amazon Warriors), Andre Russell (Jamaica Tallawahs), Marlon Samuels (Antigua Hawksbills), Shakib Al Hasan (Barbados Tridents), Rayad Emrit (Barbados Tridents), Krishmar Santokie (Guyana Amazon Warriors), Muttiah Muralitharan (Jamaica Tallawahs) and Ashley Nurse (Barbados Tridents)

The side, which includes six players from the finalists, the Jamaica Tallawahs and the Guyana Amazon Warriors, was chosen on the

Vickery loses to Glushko in U.S. Open

basis of it being balanced and, as a result, theoretically capable of playing a match.

Selections were made from performances in the tournament only; past records and reputations were not taken into consideration. The captain was only selected once the side had been chosen.

It was agreed that a minimum number of four matches had to be played by an individual in the tournament in order to be eligible for a place in the side.

The side was selected by a group of individuals brought together by the Limacol CPL for their knowledge and understanding of the game and their in-depth knowledge of player performances during the tournament.

The selection panel was made up of Mike Procter, the former South Africa all-rounder and a

match referee in the tournament; ex-West Indies and Jamaica wicketkeeper-batsman Jeffrey Dujon, a member of the television commentary team; Mike Haysman, the former South Australia batsman and part of the television commentary team; Craig Cozier, a journalist with extensive regional and international experience, and also a producer for the television coverage of the tournament; and Billy Bowden, Nigel Duguid, Joel Wilson and Danesh Ramdhanie –all umpires who have officiated in Limacol CPL.

The Limacol Caribbean Premier League took place between July 30 and August 24 and involved six franchises from across the region. The Jamaica Tallawahs beat the Guyana Amazon Warriors by seven wickets in the final, played at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.

Guyana and T&T clash in first warm-up match today

By Rajiv Bisnauth

There are only warm-up games, but there is always plenty of spice and drama whenever Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago clash, and today’s first of two T20 warm-up games will be no different.

The games will be played at the Guyana National Stadium from 20:00h with the second game scheduled for Saturday.

The games form part of the twin island team’s preparation ahead of the T20 Champions League in India from September 17 to October 6.

Even though some star players will be missing from both teams, the contest is still generating a lot of interest in both countries.

Ramnaresh Sarwan, who led the Guyana Amazon Warriors to the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League final last Saturday has been ruled out with an wrist injury, while T&T players Sunil Narine and middle order batsman Darren Bravo have asked to be excused, cit-

ing personal commitments.

Meanwhile, Jamaican Krishmar Santokie has been confirmed as the only foreign player, who will be part of the Guyana line-up according to Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Anand Sanasie on Thursday.

The only newcomers to the Guyana team are Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) opener

Robin Bacchus and Berbice allrounder Rajiv Ivan.

On the other hand, in

an invited comment on Thursday, Guyana’s coach, Esaun Crandon reveled that his side would be going all out to win both matches, adding that the team will not treat the games as warm-ups.

“It’s more than warm-up games. Everybody knows that Guyana/Trinidad is always a game most people are looking for. Whenever we play each other it’s like a final for everybody. Fans always want to see these two countries play-

ing each other, so we will go all out to win both games” Crandon said.

This is the first phase of the preparations for the T&T cricketers. They are expected to leave the Caribbean immediately after playing the Windward Islands in Dominica next weekend.

T&T has earned direct entry into the tournament this year, after lobbying by the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB). In 2011 and

2012 they played in the Qualifiers. They are in group ‘B’ along with Brisbane Heat (KFC T20 Big Bash League champion), the runner-up in the Pepsi IPL 2013, Titans (RAM SLAM T20 Challenge runner-up), and the second-ranked team from the CLT20 2013 qualifier.

Prior to the two feature games, the GCB has also organised exhibition matches on both days, starting at 15:00h.