Caribbean Times International

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Narco-sub found in Guyana may be linked to Columbian drug dealers

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

The semi-submersible craft that was found in a creek off the Waini River, NorthWest District in Guyana last Thursday is believed to have links with Colombian drug cartel.

The Colombian drug dealers are known to use this innovative technology to ship narcotics across the Caribbean and the U.S.

When contacted, Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) Director James Singh, who headed the search operations that led to the discovery of the vessel, could not

confirm whether there is indeed a connection.

He said investigations are ongoing and no more information can be disclosed to the public at this time.

Recently, drug cartels have been developing newer and more sophisticated ways of

transporting their shipments without attracting much attention or being caught. And this is driving fear into U.S. officials since the trafficking networks are moving away from so-called fast boats, the high-powered fishing and leisure boats that can carry about a

Trinidad police kill three in shootout

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Three men, believed to be suspects in several murders, were shot and killed in a gun battle with police in Trinidad Tuesday night.

Officers attached to the North Eastern Division Task Force, armed with a war-

rant to search for arms and ammunition, went to a house at Calcutta No. 2 Freeport, around 7.30pm.

Police said officers surrounded the house and were greeted by gunfire. The officers returned fire and three of the occupants were wounded.

The men were taken to the Couva District

Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival. One of the men was identified as 27-year-old David Baker of La Horquetta. The two others, believed to be in their late 20s, are yet to be identified.

The officers recovered two firearms, two bullet proofed vests and spent shells. (TT Express)

Colombian drug cartel to transport cocaine from that country to Mexico and ultimately the U.S.

tonne of cocaine and are easier to spot, to semisubmersible and fully submersible vessels that can surreptitiously carry many more tonnes of drugs, which are unloaded in shallow waters or transported to shore by small boats. Submarines are used mostly by the

According to CANU, the craft found in Region One was blue and was already fitted with a diesel engine and steering wheel, navigation and other machinery to deem it serviceable. However, no contraband was on board the SPSS.

CANU, along with Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Special Forces, Coast Guard and Air Corps, acting on intelligence from an ongoing investigation conducted an operation along the Waini River.

During a search of one of the creeks branching off from the Waini, the vessel was discovered about two miles in, along with a camp consisting of three structures–accommodation, workshop area and generator. The accommodation had the capacity to sleep approximately 12 persons.

In addition, there was also a kitchen area located within the accommodation. The workshop consisted of pulleys, power tools, paint, and several fibre- glass materials. Based on the items present, it is believed that the SPSS found in the creek was built in the area.

PM Kamla urges Caricom meeting on Ebola,

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Trinidad and Tobago has called for a meeting of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders to discuss a coordinated response to the public health threats posed by the Ebola and Chikungunya viruses.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, responding to an advisory issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) said Port-ofSpain would be willing to host the meeting.

“My advice to colleague Heads of Government in the Caribbean is to take preemptive measures to ensure the safety, health and well-being of millions of citizens of the Caribbean region. While our risk is low, our actions must further diminish the risks to our citizens. And I am confident that nations across Caricom will respond favourably,” she urged.

“The meeting will feature discussions geared towards orchestrating a plan of action in response to the increasing number of cases of Chikungunya in the Caribbean and the prevention of the Ebola virus disease,” according to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, adding that it would also “be instrumental in Caricom’s stance, together with the rest of the global community in the fight against these life threatening viruses.”

It said furthermore,

Caricom must address international decisions made which will undoubtedly affect the Region’s tourism industry.

The statement said that the meeting will also act as a direct response to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) which has been calling for Caricom member states “to adequately prepare for potential cases to implement the necessary steps to protect health care facilities, patients, health care workers and communities”.

Son of confessed Jamaican drug lord charged with money laundering

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The police in Jamaica have charged a fifth person for money laundering in connection with the dealings of confessed Jamaican drug dealer, Andrew Hamilton.

The Major Organised Crime and AntiCorruption Agency says Hamilton's son, 20-yearold Andre Paul Hamilton, has been charged with breaches of the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Four women including attorney-at-law, Dawn Satterswaite are already before the courts on money laundering charges in connection with the Hamilton probe.

The other three accused are Paulette

are

employee and a former policeman, has pleaded guilty in the U.S. state of California to drugs, money

ing and firearm-related charges and is to be sentenced next February. (Jamaica Gleaner)

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EDITORIAL

Health ResearchPractice Gap

Even in the more developed countries, there exists what has been called a “Health Research-Practice Gap” (HRPGap). As one of the accepted “basic needs” for humanity, the improvement of the health or “well being” of a country’s population is one of the goals of every government in the world.

In fact, several specific aspects of the health spectrum, such as maximum allowable levels of maternal deaths and child mortality are two of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) established by the UN to be achieved by 2015.

This HRP-Gap was very evident in the poorer countries that attempted to achieve the MMG and struggled to touch their targets in the specified areas. It also became obvious that the phenomenon was not even confined just to the health sector. The gap can be illustrated by reference to the efforts to get a handle on deaths by suicide in Guyana. For almost two decades now, there have been persistent outcries for “something to be done” to bring down the suicide rate, which is one of the highest in the world.

Several research projects, beginning with one by Dr Frank Beckles in 2000 and followed up by others privately and by the Health Ministry were conducted. But just this week there has been another initiative launched by a private group to deal with the scourge that takes over 200 lives every year in the country.

Guyana’s Health Ministry had collaborated with PAHO and Dalhousie University in Canada five years ago to launch a “Gatekeepers’ Programme” as an intervention in what was defined then as a “mental health issue”.

While there has been no definitive analysis as to why the programme petered out and must be seen as a “failure”–at least in implementation, one reason was that it was not explicitly tied to research in the subject done in Guyana.

In one of the WHO designated World Suicide Prevention Day, the specific role of culture was highlighted and this is obvious in the statistics in Guyana: the suicide rate amongst Indian Guyanese is at least four times that of other ethnic groups.

Dr Beckles’ research paper of almost a decade and a half ago stressed this point–yet in all the dozen or so initiatives launched since then–both public and private–there has been no connection to this research find and a linked implementation strategy. This is a paradigmatic example of the HRP-Gap.

What this lacuna highlights is that the formulation of health policy must be a much more dynamic and iterative process that it is now between those in charge of that area in government and researchers in the field.

The question is why this is not done more than it is at present: why the HRP-Gap? One reason is that some researchers do not work directly with policy makers, but see themselves as simply “seeking knowledge”. On the other hand, policy makers also seem to prefer to work in a vacuum, ignoring local researchers and simply imitate foreign practices that may not be applicable to the local reality.

It is our considered judgement that we can begin to bridge this gap between practitioners and researchers in the country by bringing together researchers, activists and Health Ministry workers together on this particular health problem that presently confronts the society.

In the last week there have been at least two suicides that were reported in the Guyanese press and the announcement by at least one new private group of an initiative on suicide prevention. The country’s Health Ministry can begin the process of instituting a cultural shift in how it addresses health problems in Guyana now.

World Suicide Prevention Day falls on September 10 and this would a good time to start bridging the HRP-Gap. The approach can then be used as a model in other areas as the relationships between the two groups become formalised.

Regional CSEC performance continues upward trend

The overall performance for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) May/June 2014 examination continued the gradual upward trend started in 2012.

This year, 66 percent of entries achieved acceptable grades, Grades One to Three. This compares favourably with 65 percent in 2013 and 62 percent in 2012.

Of the subjects offered, performance improved in 12, declined in 19 and remained constant in five.

Physical Education and Sport was the subject with the best overall performance.

Ninety-nine percent of the 10,000 entries achieved Grades One to Three, compared with 94 percent last year. Theatre Arts had the next best results; 94 percent of the 17,000 entries achieved acceptable grades compared with 93 percent in 2013. Food and Nutrition caps off the top three best performing subjects with 91 percent of entries achieving acceptable grades.

English and Mathematics

Performance in the English and Mathematics offerings also continued the positive trend from last year, except English B, which had a marginal decline. This year, English A saw a one percent improvement over last year’s performance.

Fifty-nine percent of entries achieved acceptable grades compared with 58 percent last year and 47 percent in 2012. Seventy-two percent of entries for English B achieved acceptable grades compared with 73 percent in 2013 and 68 percent in 2012.

Mathematics saw the most improved performance of all subjects offered in 2014 compared with 2013. Forty-nine percent of entries achieved Grades One to Three, which is a 14 percent improvement over 2013 when 35 percent of entries achieved similar grades; and 16 percent improvement over 2012.

The Subject Awards Committee attributed the improved performance to improvement in most areas on the examination with the exception of trigonometry and geometry.

Additional Mathematics, in its third year, recorded an improved performance over the two previous sittings. Seventysix percent of entries achieved Grades One to Three this year compared with 70 percent last year and 58 percent in 2012.

Of the science subjects, performance improved in Chemistry and Physics and declined in Biology, Agricultural Science Double Award (DA), Agricultural Science Single Award (SA), and Human and Social Biology. Sixty-eight percent of entries for Chemistry achieved Grades One to Three compared with 62 percent in 2013, while for Physics there was a 10 percent improvement with 77 percent of entries achieving Grades One to Three compared with 67 percent in 2013.

Both Agricultural Science DA and Agricultural Science SA saw significant declines in performance this year. For the Double Award, the percentage of entries achieving acceptable grades fell from 96 in 2013 to 75 this year, while for the Single Award, the percentage fell from 93 percent in 2013 to 78 percent this year. For Biology and Human and Social Biology, there was a two-percentage point decline; Biology dipped to 72 percent, from 74 percent last year and Human and Social Biology dipped to 62 percent, down from 64 percent last year.

Business

All the subjects in the business cluster recorded declining performances of varying degrees. Seventy percent of entries for Economics achieved Grades One to Three, compared with 81 percent in 2013. The Subject Awards Committee noted that questions relating to the business

environment, exchange rates, economic integration and balance of payments posed challenges to candidates.

For Principles of Accounts, 68 percent of entries achieved acceptable grades compared with 75 percent in 2013. Principles of Business had a four percent decline year on year with 75 percent of entries achieving acceptable grades compared with 79 percent in 2013.

Office Administration had a five percent decline with 73 percent of entries achieving acceptable grades this year compared with 78 percent in 2013.

Performance in Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPD) remained the same as last year’s–86 percent of the entries achieved acceptable grades.

The subjects in the expressive arts cluster with the exception of Visual Arts recorded improved performances when compared with 2013. Ninetynine percent of the entries for Physical Education and Sport achieved acceptable grades, compared with 94 percent in 2013.

Technical and Vocational

There were mixed performances in the technical and vocational subjects.

Performance in Home Economics Management and Technical Drawing improved by seven percent and three percent respectively. Ninety percent of entries for Home Economics Management achieved acceptable grades this year, while 83 percent achieved similar grades in 2013. For Technical Drawing, 77 percent achieved acceptable grades this year and 74 percent achieved similar grades last year.

The number of candidate and subject entries declined this year. Candidate entries fell from 149,311 in 2013 to 142,884 this year, while subject entries moved from 616,447 in 2013 to 603, 383 this year. (Caribbean News Now)

Hundreds attend Guyana Day celebration in Toronto

By RavendRa Madholall

TORONTO, CANADA:

Hundreds attended the 17th annual Guyana Day celebration at Scarborough Civic Centre on Sunday, as the Guyanese Canadian Cultural Association (GCCA) ran off another successful event.

Guest speaker Dr. Raymond Cho of Toronto City Council Ward 42, who graced the occasion for the first time, congratulated the association for organising the day of activities. He said that he was very delighted to be part of the celebration, which unified the Guyanese diaspora in Toronto and by exten-

sion Canada.

“I [am] very delighted to be here today and to share the day with you guys. I think the association has done a commendable job to have such a yearly activity, so hearty congratulations to them,” Cho declared.

The day included a variety of Guyanese cultural activities featuring their traditional food, clothing among other things while on stage several chutney singers and dancers produced entertaining performances.

“What is happening here certainly demonstrate the things the Guyanese people love and always want to remember….their culture back home and bring-

ing out the food, arts and crafts, singers and dancers are also fantastic,” Cho mentioned.

Promoter and organiser Mike Harris, in an invited comment, said he too was happy with the turnout and again rated the event a huge success. He also thanked the various sponsors for their contributions.

“I have been here since the inception and it is always a pleasure. It is about enjoyment and having the Canada-based Guyanese people coming out and have some fun,” Harris said.

He further noted that the venue is always suitable for the patrons, and will have it again at the same location in 2015.

He said that they will continue to hold different shows and have more singers participate with the musical entertainment adding to the excitement.

Meanwhile, one of the dancers, Niomi Singh, told this publication that she was very impressed with this year’s activity and the support shown by the crowd. She thoroughly enjoyed the day and promised to be part of it again.

Toronto cardiologist discusses diaspora health with UK Minister

TORONTO, CANADA:

Toronto cardiologist Dr Vivian Rambihar and his daughter Dr Vanessa Rambihar, a new Toronto Family Doctor, recently met with new UK Cabinet Minister Priti Patel to discuss Indian diaspora heath.

The two doctors were in the UK to present a paper at the Association for the Study of Medical Education annual conference, proposing thinking for educating health professionals for the 21st century, based on a 25-year experience using science in health promotion and medical education.

While in the UK, they met with MP Patel in her UK Parliament office, in her role as the UK government Indian Diaspora Champion.

The day before a Cabinet shuffle named her as Exchequer Secretary, a senior role responsible for Finance.

Patel studied economics at Keele University and had a background in business, before becoming the first Conservative Asian MP in 2010, and was part of a major change that saw more women appointed to ministerial posts.

The Rambihars and MP Patel discussed the health crises across the Indian diaspora and explored ways in which she can help in her role as Diaspora Champion to address this. The British MP concurred with the need for action and agreed to continue discussion and to offer her assistance in this effort.

Dr Vivian, as a cardiologist, mentioned the younger age of many

people of Indian origin with heart disease, diabetes, heart attacks and death, and they agreed that there was need for new local and global strategies at multiple levels to change this.

He highlighted research done in Toronto

and elsewhere, confirming increased and earlier diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease in Caribbean Indian and African diaspora communities globally, which are largely lifestyle related, requiring a community wide

approach at prevention, starting in childhood.

He mentioned too, the health promotion efforts at multiple levels to address these and other non-communicable diseases across the Caribbean, with the need to address this across the global Caribbean diaspora as well, using traditional and new methods. This includes using UN recommendations for holistic approach, requiring change from areas outside the health field.

He presented Patel with a copy of the 'Global Organisation for People of Indian Origin 25th Anniversary Jubilee Magazine', from the recent highly successful celebration of this event in Trinidad in May 2014, where Dr Rambihar received an award for contribution to health

promotion across the diaspora. Dr Vivian, the Health Co-Chair for GOPIO, has been advocating for health for over 25 years.

He also presented Patel with a copy of his book on the subject, and a paper written with Dr Vanessa Rambihar on “Time for Health across the Diaspora,” available online.

Dr Vivian has lectured for health across the Caribbean and in Toronto, with talks in Barbados, Trinidad, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Martinique. He gave a talk to the Commonwealth High Commissioners in Ottawa, including the Caribbean Commonwealth, inviting them to promote health in their diaspora communities. (Excerpted from ICW)

Seven Jamaican students in Canada for business competition

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Seven top Jamaican students from schools in the Junior Achievement Company of Entrepreneurs (JACE) competition are currently in Canada for the Junior Achievement Next Generation Leaders' Forum being held at Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario.

The young Jamaicans are among the world's top youth leaders, taking part in competitions, exhibiting products they made, and interacting with and learning from top business leaders across the world. They are Darren Bent, Ardenne High; Rodianne McLeod, Charlemont High; Nicoya Baugh of the Jamaica

Christian School for the Deaf; Trevaune Baker of Kingston College; Kimberly Barnes, Lister Mair Gilby School for the Deaf; Janice Riley of St Andrew Technical

High; and Sasha Miller of Wolmer's Girls' School.

Dubbed as the 'Next Generation Leaders,' Jamaica's delegates were selected as top performers in the JACE pro-

Guyana’s estimated external debt pegged at US$1.2 billion

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: Guyana’s external debt is estimated at US$1.23 billion, down 1.6 percent over the 2013 figure, according to the 2014 mid-year economic report.

The report showed that the decline in the debt stock follows the conclusion of a fourth Debt Compensation Agreement with Venezuela under the Petro Caribe deal and the Wind-up Agreement of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Multilateral Clearing Facility (CMCF), during the first quarter of the year.

Under the fourth Debt Compensation Agreement with Venezuela, Guyana’s debt was reduced by US$55.5 million corresponding to the value of rice and paddy shipped under the GuyanaVenezuela Rice Trade Agreement from October 2013 to February 2014. According to the report, under the CMCF Wind-up Agreement, Guyana secured additional enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) debt relief through the cancellation of the outstanding US$35.9 million debt.

A government statement said that in addition, principal repayments to external creditors increased by 10.8 percent to US$16.9 million as at June.

“Actual external debt service payments totalled US$24.8 million, which was 12.6 percent greater than the US$22 million as at June 2013. The increased total debt service payments for the first half of 2014 is mainly the result of higher principal and interest payments to multilateral creditors,” the statement said.

It said that at the end of June 2014, Guyana’s domestic debt stock stood at US$422.7 million, which was 11.8 percent below the end 2013 position. The decline was primarily due to a reduction in Treasury Bills issuance by the Bank of Guyana.

The report noted that as at June 2014, actual domestic debt service payments totalled US$3 million, a significant reduction by 67.1 percent compared with the US$9.2 million made during the first half of 2013. (Caribbean News)

gramme based on their potential.

The competition is one element of the JACE programme, which started in October 2013. More than 40 high schools

were involved, with a group of 20 to 25 students from each school forming a company.

Bent's Ardenne High company made pencil cases, umbrellas and tablet cases from synthetic polythene. He led the way as the vice-president for human resources.

Two of the students, Barnes and Baugh, are hearing-impaired.

Speaking through interpreter Carol Robertson, Barnes said her teachers encouraged her to become involved in the programme to learn something new.

"They wanted us to know how to establish a business for the future. We made different types of T-shirts and we focused more on selling

persons who support the hearing-impaired community. We wanted everyone to know that we are capable of being creative and implementing our own businesses," Barnes said. While running their companies, the students were led in a curriculum based on structured entrepreneurship, work readiness and financial literacy. This taught them how to do various tasks, including writing business plans, developing products and electing leaders to serve different business functions. Of note, some companies were mentored by private-sector companies.

The event runs from August 18 to 22, 2014.

(Jamaica Gleaner)

Canadians seek investment opportunities in Jamaica

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

A group of Canadians recently visited Jamaica exploring investment opportunities in the agriculture, energy, tourism, and housing sectors.

"We want to create jobs in the island and address some of the energy challenges that Jamaica is facing," said Senator Don Meredith, a member of the group that arrived in the island on August 1.

In addition to visiting the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show in Clarendon over the Emancipation weekend, the group met with various government bodies to discuss investment options.

Senator Meredith said one member of the group spoke of the possibility of investing Ja$200 million in a potential energy project.

"If Jamaica can solve this energy problem, manufacturing jobs will come," Meredith told Jamaican media last week.

He said members of the group are currently in trade discussions with Lasco Distributors Limited and National Bakery to have both companies' products distributed in North America.

Partnership

"There are businesses in Canada that

have products that they would like to come to Jamaica, and businesses here that would like to go into North America... but they need a partner," Meredith stated. Last year, Caricom and Canadian officials entered talks for a deal to replace the CaribbeanCanada Trade Agreement, a preferential arrangement under which most regional items enjoyed duty-free access to the Canadian market.

However, negotiations broke down due to

a confluence of sticking points, including issues surrounding market access. The result was that the parties received a short-term extension of the existing arrangement.

Caricom was given a deadline of June 30 this year to reach an agreement with Canada. However, the regional grouping missed that deadline, which sparked fear that Jamaica would be required to pay tariffs on goods entering and exiting the market.

Trade negotiations

University of Guyana loan issues to be resolved soon - President Ramotar

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

President Donald Ramotar has given the assurance that the Finance Ministry is working assiduously to have issues regarding loans for University of Guyana (UG) students resolved in time for the new academic year 20142015.

Last Thursday, UG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi had said that if the situation of uncertainty persists, he will be forced to close down the campus in the second week of the new semester.

But President Ramotar, speaking at a press conference last Friday, said the matter

"Canada is seeking trade negotiations with Jamaica," Meredith noted, adding that it is important for the officials to look at the economic benefits for both countries.

"Jobs are being created, GDP is growing in both countries and the quality of life is improved for those individuals who are living in poverty, which is essential to growth in any country," he stressed.

Meanwhile, Yam Pudding--a product highlighted at Denbigh--has captured the interest of the Canadians.

Meredith also made reference to the planned hotel at Denbigh.

In July, Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) President Norman Grant announced plans to construct a 60-room hotel at Denbigh, a property Finsac held a lien on up until late June when the lending agency agreed to settle the JAS' Ja$80 million debt for the original amount of Ja$7.5 million.

Meredith added that the hotel will be beneficial to local farmers while providing an opportunity for other producers to showcase their projects.

The Canadian officials are also seeking negotiations with the Jamaica Exporters' Association. (Jamaica Observer)

Trinidad gov’t says it won’t stop Constitution Bill

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

There will be no backing down on TT’s Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2014.

In fact, the People’s Partnership government led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar herself had been part of community outreaches this week seeking to educate the people and clear the fears and doubts with respect to the runoff provision of the Bill.

Speaking at the UNC Monday Night Forum in Gasparillo, she dismissed as “mass hysteria” that passing the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2014 will cause riots or turn the country into “the Gaza Strip”.

“More power to the people. These are what the reforms are about,” she indicated, adding: “in this country leaders want to hold on to power until you have to drag them screaming and

kicking out the door.”

The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2014, which was passed in the Lower House last Tuesday, provides for two term limits for Prime Ministers, right of recall for MPs and a runoff election if a candidate does not win more than 50 percent of the vote in a constituency.

COP Ministers Winston Dookeran and Carolyn SeepersadBachan voted against the Bill whilst Social Integration Minister Rodger Samuel, a COP member, abstained. The debate on the Bill in the Senate is carded to take place on August 26 where the vote of at least one independent senator is needed for its passage.

Acting Attorney General and Housing Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal said earlier this week that the government will show the people how the Bill seeks to strengthen democracy and will listen to the feedback.

The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago, led by Seenath Jairam SC, last Saturday called for the debate in the Senate to be stopped and for the people to be consulted on its provisions. However, Moonilal said that as of now, there is no debate in the Senate on the Bill thereby allowing further discussions on its provisions.

U.S., Canadian investors talk petroleum ventures with Guyana

is under active consideration by the Cabinet and will be resolved as soon as possible.

He assured that “we are not going to allow the students unnecessary suffering”, but noted that it was the combined Opposition in Parliament that reduced UG’s 2014 budgetary allocation of Gy$450 million to zero.

The funds that were cut from the budget were restored by the government, for which the President and his Cabinet came in for serious flak, included Gy$225 million for the university.

Over the years, a vast majority of the student population at the country’s premier tertiary institution has benefited from student loans and a large percentage of new entries continue to apply for this facility. (Guyana Times)

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Nexen Energy ULC, headquartered in Calgary, Canada and ESSO Exploration and Production Guyana Limited have expressed an interest in opportunities for petroleum ventures in Guyana. This was commu-

nicated to Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud during a meeting last Friday.

The U.S. and Canadian investors also have on their agenda, meetings with key agencies and commercial sector stakeholders as they seek to become acquaint-

ed with the various aspects of policy and the business landscape in Guyana. Meanwhile, ESSO Exploration and Production Guyana Limited are operators for the Stabroek Blocks offshore Guyana, where exploration activities are being undertaken.

Trinidad Integrity Commission gets green light from U.S. court to subpoena Google

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

A United States court has granted a subpoena to the Integrity Commission in TT allowing it to request information from the internet search engine, Google, as part of its investigation into the alleged “Emailgate” scandal in the twin-island state.

Justice William H Orrick of the Northern District of California Court on August 14 granted the application for subpoena seeking information for the email accounts “anand@gmail. com,” “anand@tstt.net. tt,” and “kamlapb1@ gmail.com,” which the Commission said was relevant to a criminal investigation into possible governmental corruption.

Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley on May 20, 2013 told Parliament he had received 31 emails purporting to show correspondence between Prime Minister Persad Bissessar, Attorney General Anand Ramlogan, Local Government and Works Minister Suruj Rambachan and then security adviser Gary Griffith, in a sinister

The judge said the subpoena is only a request for information

move to undermine the judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the media.

Rowley said the emails, dating back to September 2012, were from people concerned with the government’s defence of the early proclamation of Section 34 of the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act that had the effect of allowing people, whose trial has not started after a 10-year period to walk free and a verdict of not guilty entered against their plea.

Critics say that the clause was aimed at supporting businessmen Ish Galbaransingh and Steve Ferguson, who have been described as financiers of the ruling United National Congress (UNC), the biggest partner in the four-member coalition People’s Partnership government.

The two are fac-

ing fraud and laundering charges relating to the re-development of the Piarco International Airport in 2001. They are also wanted in the United States on a number of related charges.

The government officials have all denied the accusations and Prime Minister Persad Bissessar and Ramlogan have filed pre-action protocol letters alleging that Rowley on May 23, 2013, at a public meeting continued to use the e-mails as the basis for his assertion.

Justice Orrick ruled that the application by the Integrity Commission met both the statutory requirements and discretionary factors.

He ruled that Google itself is not the subject of the case and since it’s out of the jurisdiction of Trinidad and Tobago law enforcement, any evidence will be unobtainable without Google’s help. (Caribbean News)

Guyana-based DDL’s mid-year profit stands at Gy$804 million

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Despite sales reduction in one of its biggest markets, the Demerara Distillers Limited and Subsidiaries (DDL) was able to make some Gy$804 million for the first half of the 2014 financial year.

According to the company’s Chairman Komal Samaroo in the Interim Report 2014, DDL’s profit before taxation stood at Gy$1.6 billion, representing 20.11 percent increase compared to the same period last year when Gy$971 million was recorded.

Samaroo credited the increase to continuous implementation of costreduction measures and improved operational margins.

He pointed out that the gross revenue saw a marginal increase as domestic sales grew modestly. Additionally, exports to North America and the Caribbean also reflected “encouraging growth,” the Chairman said.

However, these positive trends were adversely affected by a decline in European sales,

but Samaroo is adamant that the company is poised to regain its lost sales in that market, one of the biggest ones, during the second half of the year.

“We anticipate that economies in the developed countries will continue to improve in 2014 and hope that the local business environment will benefit from political and national consensus on issues which will ultimately advance our economy,” the Chairman stated.

With the company’s continued exemplary performance, Samaroo anticipated this year will be another positive and profitable one for DDL. The company recorded a 19 percent increase at the end of financial year

Former West Indies cricketer charged with incest in Trinidad

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

A former West Indies cricketer will re-appear in court in Trinidad on September 15 after he was granted TT$300,000 bail on a charge of incest.

The Trinidad Guardian reported that “the 38-year-old appeared before magistrate Siumungal Ramsaran charged with the offence allegedly committed against his 12-year-

old daughter on July 8.”

The former cricketer cannot be identified because it could reveal the identity of the alleged victim in contravention of the Trinidad and Tobago Sexual Offences Act.

The accused, who also represented Trinidad and Tobago, was arrested at his home last Friday and appeared before Magistrate Ramsaran on Monday where the indictable charge was read out. He

was not required to enter a plea.

According to the Trinidad Guardian, the Trinidad police reported the man’s daughter told her mother she was at home with her father when he forced himself on her.

The prosecution had objected to bail on the grounds that the accused was a flight risk and the magistrate ordered that his passport be seized as a condition of bail.

JAMAICA: PNP NEC member on fraud charges

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: People’s National Party (PNP) National Executive Council (NEC) member, engineer Donovan Bisasor and 31-year-old quantity surveyor Jessie Gosse, arrested by the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) were each offered Ja$1.5 million bail when the appeared in court Tuesday morning.

Bisasor, 58-year-old of Great House Circle, Cherry Gardens in St Andrew and Gosse of a Richmond Park address were held during an early morning MOCA operation on Monday.

2013, with a Gy$1.569 billion profit after tax. Most of the operating entities within the group have registered improvement in their performance during the year. The group’s turnover increased by 11 percent to Gy$17.5 billion and the profit before tax was increased by 15 percent from Gy$1.569 billion to Gy$2.205 billion, which reflected improved margins from cost-reduction initiatives and efficiency drives undertaken by management.

There was a 14 percent increase in profit before tax of Gy$1.462 billion, while turnover recorded an eight percent increase of Gy$11.5 billion when compared to the previous year.

The Demerara Shipping Company Limited also recorded significant growth during 2012 and its performance in 2013 was no less, with a profit of Gy$185 million compared to a Gy$146 million in 2012. However, Distribution Services Limited (DSL) saw a decrease in its profit when compared to the previous year. (Guyana Times)

They have been charged with forgery and uttering forged documents, and also with conspiracy to defraud and

demanding property on forged documents.

According to MOCA, the arrests resulted from a probe into an alleged fraudulent claim made to a utility company for services rendered in 2011.

The two have been ordered to surrender their travel documents and are scheduled to return to the Corporate Area Criminal Court on

September 29. Monday, the PNP, while acknowledging that the "nature of the allegations are serious", asked that "due process be respected". "...And therefore we limit any further public comment on the matter until further comment is deemed appropriate," the party said in a statement. (Jamaica Observer)

US$20 million loan to make TT regional ICT hub

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

A US$20 million loan from the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) will help develop TT as an ICT hub in the region, said Dr Bhoe Tewarie, Minister of Planning and Development.

“We have signed an agreement with the IDB for loan support to develop a global services platform in TT. The idea is that TT will be a hub in the world for global provision for information technology-enabled services (ITeS), which will mean increased investments, increased exports and employment in the sector,” he said.

Tewarie was speaking Monday at a media conference at the Ministry of Planning,

TT’s Planning minister Dr

Eric Williams Financial Complex, Port-of-Spain. He said the IDB facilitated a meeting between the Ministry of Planning and ZonaAmerica, the largest and most successful export services hub in Uruguay and in Latin America. Before the media briefing, they

held a meeting at the Ministry of Planning and there are plans to meet with the local private sector and look at areas in the country where it can be set up. Tewarie said this hub has the capacity to provide “thousands of jobs.” (TT Guardian)

CGX ties up helicopter deal for drilling in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Canadian oil exploration company, CGX Energy has entered into a definitive agreement for the provision of helicopter services for use in the drilling of its first commitment well on its Corentyne Block, scheduled to be spudded before October 31, 2015.

Under the terms of the agreement, the company has procured the services of Bristow Helicopters (International) Limited, a corporation organised and acting under the laws of England and having its registered office in England.

Additionally, the CGX has completed a shallow hazard survey in order to acquire seabed conditions and drilling hazard information surrounding the location of its first commitment well on the Corentyne Block.

The survey, performed by the MV Sea Surveyor of Guardline Marine Sciences (South America) Limited, comprised an area of 3.5km X 4.5km. Soil boring samples will be taken in October 2014 to predict leg penetration for the HAKURYU-12 jack-up drilling rig.

CGX Energy is a Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company focused on the exploration of oil in the Guyana-

Suriname Basin. Bristow Group Inc, based in Houston, Texas, is the leading provider of helicopter services to the worldwide offshore energy industry based on the number of aircraft operated, and one of two helicopter service providers to the offshore energy industry with global operations. Bristow has proudly served the offshore oil transport industry in major exploration and production arenas for more than 50 years and has been responsible for many industry-leading technological innovations.

Back in June, the Canadian oil explorer had announced that it

received a five-month extension to begin drilling for oil at its Corentyne Petroleum Prospecting Licence (PPL) Block following approval by the Guyana government.

CGX Co-Chairman, Professor Suresh Narine had stated then that the company was deeply appreciative for the cooperation of the government of Guyana in granting the extension. He said then that the procuring of the HAKURYU-12 drilling rig along with this extension significantly enables the company to address its work obligations under the Corentyne PPL with confidence. (Guyana Times)

Trinidad upgrading prison system

PORT-OFSPAIN,

TRINIDAD: The technical team established by TT’s Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar to implement decisions from the special Prisons Committee, on Monday, delivered an update on steps to be taken to improve the prison system.

According to the report issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, bullet and stab proof vests will be handed over to prison officers in October as well as firearm user’s licenses and emergency housing in instances where their lives are at risk.

The report also noted that the use of force policy and training will continue and yearly refresher courses will be implemented. To date, approximately 400 prison officers have benefit-

ted from this training programme. It added that the Commissioner of Prisons confirmed the installation of beds, toilets and other structural upgrades.

The use of the Eastern Correctional Rehabilitation Centre (ECRC) is also being explored to provide relief from overcrowding for persons in the prison system.

Concerning the construction of a new remand facility, the report

PAHO urges Caribbean to prepare for Ebola

The Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) is urging the countries of the Americas to be vigilant and prepared for a potential introduction of the Ebola virus in the Region.

The recommendation comes following a statement by WHO DirectorGeneral Margaret Chan that the outbreak in West Africa constitutes a “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC). The current Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak began in Guinea in December 2013. This outbreak now involves transmission in Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. As of 6 August 2014, countries have reported 1,779 cases, including 961 deaths. This is currently the largest EVD outbreak ever recorded.

The PHEIC determination was made by Chan based on recommendations from WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee, which suggested temporary measures to reduce

Marcos Espinal Director of PAHO/WHO’s Department of Communicable Diseases and Health Analysis

the international spread of the virus for three different groups of WHO Member States: those with Ebola transmission; those with a potential or confirmed Ebola case, and unaffected States with land borders with affected countries; and all States.

Within this context, the following recommendations by the WHO IHR Emergency Committee apply to the countries of the Americas: there should be no general ban on international travel or trade; although the restrictions outlined in these recommendations regarding the travel of

noted that the Ministry of Justice is seeking to purchase the property at a cost of TT $230M million, to which the owner agreed.

The Chief State Solicitor is finalising the required legal document.

The report was released following a meeting with Chairman of the Technical Team, Emmanuel George, Minister of Justice, Housing Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal and others at the Office of the Prime Minister on Monday.

Earlier this year Persad-Bissessar appointed a nine-member committee to investigate the state of the prisons.

This was in an attempt to address growing unrest from an incident in which a prison officer was killed in November last year. (Caribbean News)

EVD cases and contacts should be implemented; WHO Member States should provide travelers to Ebola-affected and atrisk areas with relevant information on risks, measures to minimise those risks, and advice for managing a potential exposure; States should be prepared to detect, investigate, and manage Ebola cases; this should include assured access to a qualified diagnostic laboratory for EVD and, where appropriate, the capacity to manage travelers originating from known Ebola-infected areas who arrive at international airports or major land crossing points with unexplained febrile illness; the general public should be provided with accurate and relevant information on the Ebola outbreak and measures to reduce the risk of exposure and states should be prepared to facilitate the evacuation and repatriation of nationals (e.g. health workers) who have been exposed to Ebola.

Grenada Casino Bill passes first hurdle

ST.GEORGE’S, GRENADA:

The Grenada Parliament last Thursday, approved legislation to allow casino gambling.

The Bill, known as the Casino and Gaming Act 2014, next goes to the Senate for debate.

The legislation provides for the owners of hotels with more than 300 rooms to apply for a licence to operate a casino on the property.

The Bill was piloted by Planning and Economic Affairs Minister Oliver Joseph, who said that the legislation was drafted following a review of the impact of casino gambling on other Caricom countries.

Tourism Minister Alexandria Otway-Noel said that Grenada stands

The Bill, known as the casino and Gaming act 2014, next goes to the Senate for debate

to benefit significantly from the passage of the legislation, noting that it would enhance the island's tourism product. Joseph told legislators the intention of the legislation is to provide casino entertainment to satisfy the demands of visitors and that the legislation is clear in that all casino facilities must be attached to an operating hotel.

"The casino must be on the premises. You cannot have the hotel in one location like St George and the casino in St David," he told legislators.

"No person under 18 or locals will be able to go into a casino to participate in the activities," he added.

Government legislator Tobias Clement is against the ban on locals, saying the measure is a contravention of the rights of nationals.

Under the Bill, Grenadians would be fined EC$10,000 for gambling at a local casino. The same fine applies to underage persons.

Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell had objected to the original fine of EC$100,000, saying "this is ridiculously too high". (Caribbean News)

Stakeholders force out TCL directors in Trinidad

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

The might of shareholders forced the board of Trinidad Cement Ltd (TCL) to quit, paving the way for the immediate installation of new directors.

This followed a twoday legal battle by TCL to stop the shareholders’ action.

A majority of shareholders unanimously voted in a new board at a Special Compulsory Meeting of Shareholders held at the Radisson Hotel, Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain.

The meeting was called by shareholder

Kamal Ali after the directors refused a requisition for the meeting delivered on June 24, 2014.

That requisition was backed by shareholders controlling 54.7 percent of the company’s shares.

However, by the time Tuesday afternoon’s meeting was convened, the organisers said they

had the support of shareholders representing more than 70 percent of the company’s shares.

A major part of the business of the meeting was the removal of six directors—chairman Andy Bhajan, Dr Rollin Bertrand, TCL chief executive officer who had a seat on the board, Bevon Francis, Carlos David Hee Houng, Leonard Nurse and Brian William Young.

However, as the meeting began it was announced that the directors had resigned following the loss of their appeal against Monday’s High Court ruling allowing the

Special Compulsory Shareholders meeting to go ahead. That left the meeting with only one item of business—to elect seven new directors to replace the outgoing board. The shareholders voted unanimously to elect as directors businessman Wilfred Espinet; retired public servant and former permanent secretary, Allison Lewis; Jamaican businessman Christopher Dehring; attorney Michael Hamel-Smith; engineer Francisco Aguilera; another engineer, Carlos Alberto Palero and businessman Nigel Edwards. (TT Newsday)

Two dead in Cuyuni River boat mishap in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Bisham Monilall, a five-year-old boy living in the Cuyuni interior and a Brazilian national, Jose Henriqu Salvao DeSouza are dead after the boat in which they were travelling collided with a rock, throwing several persons into a river near Dukwarri, according to a release from the Guyana Police Force.

Monilall and De Souza were passen-

gers “on a boat travelling along a river at Dukwarri, Cuyuni when the vessel struck a rock and several passengers were thrown overboard.”

Many of the passengers managed to make their way back to the safety of the boat except for the five-year-old and the Brazilian national. While persons are still scouring the river for the missing child, the body of the Brazilian national has been recovered. In the release, police said that De Souza, 66,

resided at Junior Ross Landing, in the Cuyuni district.

When this newspaper visited the 212 Charlotte Street, Georgetown, residence of the grandmother of Monilall, Jane Baboolall, she explained that she was told of the incident on Tuesday evening.

She received a phone call from her son on Tuesday morning informing her of the incident. She explained that

her son was injured in the accident too but he is concentrated on looking for his son at the moment.

Baboolall said her son left the city to go into the interior approximately 17 years ago, where he settled and made it home with his family. She pointed out that her son would be in constant contact with her. Police have said the investigations are ongoing into the accident.

Canadian gold mining firm on track for Guyana start-up

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: The Guyana government has urged Canadian mining company Guyana Goldfields Inc to accelerate preparatory works to meet the June 2015 deadline for its start-up operations. But the company said it has had several false starts and identified communication as being the major bugbear.

The company also indicated that it will be getting into underground mining and to this end, it announced that personnel in Guyana would be sent overseas to acquire the requisite skill for this particular endeavour. The calls for the acceleration of the project was made Sunday by President Donald Ramotar who led a highlevel team to the company’s Aurora Gold Project located in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The President’s delegation included Natural Resources Minister

Robert Persaud; Finance Minister Ashni Singh; Public Works Minister Robeson Benn; Canadian High Commissioner Dr Nicole Giles; Chairman of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Clinton Williams; and Deputy Commissioner of the GGMC, Newell Dennison.

President Ramotar said that the project was evidence of the sustained faith that investors have in the economy despite the stalemate in the National Assembly that have helped stall several important proj-

ects. He said too that it is important that investment such as these continue even at times such as these.

He noted that the project heralds the creation of jobs and the distribution of wealth among Guyanese, which will in turn lend to the improvement of the standard of living for Guyanese.

Delays

Guyana Goldfields Country Manager Violet Smith explained that though works were moving apace, there was a lot of initial infrastructural “false starts.” As a

result, the company suffered several delays and has had to double the capacity of its operations to remain on schedule for the June 2015 deadline.

She added that one of the major constraints faced by the company at present is the inability to effectively communicate with the outside world. Nonetheless she pointed out that the company will soon be looking to overcome this constraint with the construction of a satellite tower at the base of its operations. She pointed out too that Guyana

Goldfields will be looking to make Aurora its primary operation base and locate its headquarters in the area.

Further, Smith plugged the need for Guyanese to benefit from the work being done at Aurora and Aranka. Benefits

“If we have a foreign company coming into Guyana, Guyanese must benefit from it, we must have skills transfer,” said the country manager, noting that several local contractors have been consulted and are carrying out various jobs for the company.

Presently, the firm is engaged in quarrying.

The site for the company’s processing plant has been cleared ahead of its August 20 deadline and work on the construction of the facility is set to commence in the near future. The mine plan for the Aurora Gold Project is designed to produce 3.29 million ounces of gold, averaging 194,000 ounces per year, over an initial 17-year mine life. The Aurora Gold Project has total, proven and probable reserves of 3.48 million ounces of gold.

(Guyana Times)

Gov’t to build centres for troubled girls in TT

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Boys who run afoul of the law in Trinidad and Tobago are often sent to special State facilities, but it is a different story for girls who end up breaking the law—they are sent to the adult Women’s Prison.

Minister of Gender, Youth and Child Development Clifton De Coteau, recently announced that Cabinet had approved construction of a battery of facilities to house truant girls. The total package has an estimated cost of TT$191 million, though no contracts have yet been tendered.

Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing, De Coteau said, “As a result of the limited range of facilities available, the institutions will house children in conflict with the law; children needing care and protection— including those who have been physically and sexually abused— and children beyond control.”

He stated that a review of the youth justice system in 2013 revealed that 97 percent of the girls housed at St Jude’s were beyond control while 76 percent of boys at St Michael’s were there for the same reason.

“The review also showed that many of the children deemed beyond control by the court have had a history of childhood abuse and or mental illness and with little or no social or medical support for these children there is little or no chance of recovery,” the minister related.

“The government has agreed, in principle, to the establishment of two rehabilitative centres in support of girls in conflict with the law and assigned to institutional care by the state,” he added. Of the total amount, he announced that TT$23 million had been ear-marked for the con-

struction of two “youth empowerment centres targeted toward females.” One facility will

be in the north while the other will be in south Trinidad. He could not give a time-line for con-

struction, except to say the new facilities would be built, “quite soon once we go through

Guyana’s East Bank four-lane roadway to be completed in 2015

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Despite efforts to have Guyana’s East Bank Four-lane Extension Project completed by the end of this year, the project has now been set to be fully finished in the first quarter of next year.

According to the Works Ministry’s Roads and Bridges Department Manager Ron Rahaman, two of the lots will be completed by this year, but the other will not be finished until the first quarter of 2015.

sidewalk, creating more space and convenience.

In May 2011, Cabinet had given its no-objection to the US$1.6 million contract to improve the access road leading to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

Diamond from two lanes to four lanes.

The project is divided into three lots and has been awarded to three contractors.

The engineer noted that Lots Two and Three, with the exception of Diamond High Bridge, are scheduled to be completed by December.

Rahaman went on to explain that work on the

He disclosed that Lot One is only 40 percent completed while works on Lots Two and Three are 64 and 40 percent completed respectively.

second lot, being done by GuySuCo, is progressing well with the second two-lane also complete. He pointed out that the split-road design was done because of efficiency rather than filling the trench.

Meanwhile, an Inter-

American Development Bank (IDB) funded feasibility study is currently being conducted from Grove to Timehri to expand and upgrade the two-lane highway. The intention of the ministry is to widen the road to include parking and a

Government had subsequently obtained US$20 million from the IDB for the East Bank Road Extension Project. The main objectives of the project are to enhance urban and sub-urban mobility and safety by lowering transport costs and reducing accident rates via the expansion of the East Bank Demerara Main Road between Providence and

The 2014 budget provided the sum of Gy$13.7 billion to improve roads and bridges network, of which Gy$12.9 billion will be spent on roads and Gy$844.2 million on bridges. With the completion of the East Bank and East Coast Demerara Four-Lane Expansion Projects, the traffic congestion, especially at peak hours will be reduced significantly, thus allowing for a smoother and faster traffic flow. (Guyana Times)

Canada issues Chikungunya warning to Caribbean travelers

OTTAWA, CANADA:

Canada has warned travellers to the Caribbean to protect themselves from mosquito bites as the spread of the Chikungunya disease continues across the Region.

“Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel,” said the Public Health Agency of Canada in its latest travel update on the virus.

The agency warned

that transmission of the virus has also spread to countries in Central and South America and the United States. It also stated that several other countries have reported cases in individuals who have travelled to some of

these affected areas.

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) in its most recent update says the number of new cases of the Chikungunya virus in the Caribbean increased by nearly 38,000 with the Dominican Republic having the most cases.

The Dominican Republic accounted for 26,012 of the new cases in the Caribbean and more than half of all cases, with an overall total of 307,933, according to PAHO. (Caribbean News)

China funding new prefab housing project in Suriname

PARAMARIBO, SURINAME:

Suriname has entered into an agreement with China to produce prefabricated homes for export to South America and the Caribbean.

The financial details of the accord was not disclosed, but Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Lackin signed declarations of intent with the Chinese ambassador Yang Zigang and He Baoxiang, vice governor of the Hunan province, regarding the construction of the plant and the supply of houses.

Lackin said the operation will make it possible for more people in Suriname to own a home.

“There will be houses

in different price ranges, from low income, mid class to large. This will satisfy the people who want to own their own home,” he indicated.

The vice governor of the Hunan province said the Smalkalden operation should become the centre from which his province will penetrate the Caribbean and South America markets.

“We will be coming in with companies and technology to help develop the economy here further,” he added.

Director at the Ministry of Public Works, Anwar Hassankhan, said the company, Broad Homes Industrial International Co, will produce between 2,000 and 2,500 prefab

homes monthly. He said it should begin operations early next year.

Hassankhan said the deal presented a win-win situation for Suriname, hinting that Suriname is providing the land while Beijing is providing the investment.

They will not be sending for Chinese products, but they have decided to set up a plant here that will be using local products. In addition they will be employing local people and supply Suriname with affordable homes,” Hassankhan stated, noting that while the homes will be sold on the local market, the intention is also to export to the Region. (Caribbean News)

Jamaican bank approves Ja$2.3 billion in loans to local businesses

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

The Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) has approved over 9,700 loan applications, valued at Ja$2.3 billion for the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) sector during the last fiscal year.

This was disclosed by General Manager of Strategic Services at DBJ, Claudine Tracey, during the launch of the Financial Information and Real-time Matchmaking (FIRM) expo last week at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.

"We actually have a target of Ja$3 billion this year and I'm happy to say that we are on track

to achieve that target," she said.

She added that the DBJ's three main strategies as it relates to developing the MSME sector are: the provision of development financing to drive growth, development and employment, strengthening the capacity of the MSMEs to actually access that pool of funds so that they can borrow, invest and expand; and the creation of opportunities for private equity and venture capital.

She informed that the DBJ staged its first ever venture capital conference last year, to “share information and to test the appetite for venture capital and private equi-

ty in Jamaica.”

The DBJ also facilitated a national business model competition and created an investor panel to evaluate and invest in businesses, which make proposals for venture capital funding.

"There are a number of funds that the venture capital programme wants to establish that can invest in high potential MSMEs in the country. Not every idea, every business is appropriate for credit, some need equity financing and it is important that the environment was built and that actually financing was put in place for the MSMEs to access that,” Tracey indicated.

(Jamaica Observer)

Murdered Trinidadian attorney’s estate to be distributed soon

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Assets reportedly worth millions held by murdered Trinidadian State prosecutor, Dana Seetahal, 58, are being readied for distribution to the beneficiaries of her Will 104 days after her death.

Her very close friend, attorney and former government minister, Christine Sahadeo, has been named executor and she has made applications to the Registrar of the Supreme Court for the grant of probate of the Will. The formal notice to that effect recently appeared in local newspapers.

The application for the grant of probate, or letters of administration in the case of someone who dies without making a Will, is usually made public to facilitate any challenges to the process. Any queries over the Will must be done within 21 days of the public notice.

TT media reported that among the assets Seetahal left behind are

two agricultural estates in Mayaro and Tamana, a luxurious apartment at One Woodbrook Place, her El Dorado Law Chambers at St Vincent Street, Port-of-Spain, a Volkswagen vehicle as well as cash in the bank along with other investments.

Sources revealed that the apartment owned by Seetahal at One Woodbrook Place is valued at more than one million dollars with millions more accruing from the two agricultural estates in addition to cash in the bank and earnings

Guyana inks big rice trade deal with Panama

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

The governments of Guyana and Panama have signed an agreement that will see Panama purchasing approximately 5,000 tonnes of rice per month from Guyana, following a recent meeting between delegations from both countries.

rest of 2014 while there will be further discussions for renewal in 2015. Nevertheless, it is expected that the contract will continue throughout 2015, provided the terms of agreement were met to the satisfaction of both countries.

from other investments.

Relatives of Seetahal are expected to be beneficiaries of the assets.

One source stated that Seetahal, born on July 8, 1955, had her Will drawn up in 2010 after she confided in a close friend that she was nearing 60 and did not know what the future held for her. She said then she wanted to make sure that if anything happened to her including sudden death or major illness, she would have had her affairs in order so that her loved ones could benefit from the fruits of her success.

Seetahal was shot dead on May 4, while driving her Volkswagen vehicle along Hamilton Holder Street, Woodbrook. She was shot five times about the body and police believe there were at least two shooters involved. Police probing the murder have been working closely with officers of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to bring closure to this investiga-

Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy, along with Head of the Guyana Rice Producers Association Dharamkumar Seeraj, and head of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Jagnarine Singh, visited Panama, during which the agreement was concluded and inked. It, however, stemmed from earlier interactions between Guyanese President Donald Ramotar and his Panamanian counterpart Juan Carlos Verela.

The newly-inked contract caters for rice supply to Panama for the

Overall, the trade deal would see 50,000 to 60,000 tonnes of rice annually, being exported to Panama and which will be sourced from local suppliers in Guyana.

In addition, since Panama imports about 150,000 tonnes of rice per year and, though they produce rice, they are not able to meet their rice demands; the remainder of 100,000 tonnes required by Panama will be purchased through bidders, of whom Guyanese suppliers (the private sector) will have the opportunity to be a part, among American suppliers, Dr Ramsammy explained.

The rice exportation

contract is one aspect of a larger agreement as Dr Ramsammy indicated that the Panamanians have engaged themselves in an agriculture and trade partnership with Guyana for which a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed.

The MOA called for exchange of scientists among Guyana’s research institutions and ministries. The Panamanians are very interested in training at the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), exchanging crop seeds, looking at animal breed improvement, and the development of milk and pork industry.

The minister added that the two countries will alternate visits every six months to hold meetings. Also a Panamanian delegation will attend the first ever national agriculture research conference in October. (GINA)

US$4 million system to speed up Jamaica’s operations at ports

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Jamaica Customs Agency has launched a major, technology-driven system, aimed at streamlining and reducing the processes involved in the import, export, and trans-shipment of goods. The Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), which is being implemented at a cost of US$4 million, is expected to speed up operations at the ports by fully automating export and import transactions. It allows for realtime updates on new tax regulations to minimise errors and delays in the computation of port tax-

es and also guarantees transparency, uniformity/standardisation and consistency of Customs procedures.

It is expected to significantly reduce the cost of importation and doing business, to local and foreign investors.

Speaking at the launch at the Jamaica Pegasus in New Kingston last week, Jamaica’s Finance and Planning Minister Dr Peter Phillips, welcomed the system, noting that “the country needs the additional revenues which can flow from this”.

He said that the application of the computerised platform in other

jurisdictions, have realised a 10 to 20 percent increase in revenues through improved compliance and shorter processing times.

The minister stated that “smoothing out and speeding up the processing time in Customs is essential to raising the overall productivity of the country in today’s modern, global environment”.

This is important, he indicated, in light of the fact that manufacturers often do not produce a complete item, and need to import and export multiple times before achieving the final product. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyana Defence Force inks Gy$1 billion non-lethal aid package with China

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has benefited from over Gy$1 billion donated by the Chinese military as part of a non-lethal military aid package.

Heads of the GDF and Chinese military met to

conduct the annual bilateral staff conference and as part of the conference, the two armies signed a military-aid package to assist in enhancing the service of the local Army.

The package was signed by GDF Chief-ofStaff, Brigadier Mark

Phillips and Major General Kong Li, of the People’s Liberation Amy at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, on Tuesday.

According to the Chiefof-Staff, since 1970, the

Chinese Army has been providing military assistance to the GDF. He noted that the ties between the two countries have been consolidated with frequent cooperation in political, economic, diplomatic and cultural affairs.

He added that many GDF ranks have also benefited from tactical, operational and strategic levels of training from China over the years.

“The GDF remains heartened and greatly appreciative of the continued military assistance as we work collectively towards strengthening the mutual

relationship between the two nationals and military forces,” he noted.

Brigadier Philips disclosed that based on the agreement, the money will be used to acquire only non-lethal materials such as equipment, medical supplies and military kits along with building structures.

Meanwhile, Major General Li of the People’s Liberation Amy said that his visit to Guyana is to implement and sign the package that was agreed upon by the heads of the two military bodies. He added that during the dis-

cussions, he will also be listening to the perspective of the local Army, focusing particularly on what materials and supplies it will need from China.

Li maintained that this arrangement does not have any political affiliations and is solely an arrangement between the two military bodies. During the conference, presentations were made by both the Guyana Defence Force and the People’s Liberation Army after which discussions were held on military issues. (Guyana Times)

TT$1.8 billion hospital for Arima in Trinidad

PORT-OF-

SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Trinidadian Cabinet has approved a budget of TT$1.8 billion for the planned Arima hospital, Minister of Health Dr Fuad Khan stated.

The minister also recently announced a sum of TT$68 million would be spent on an extension of facilities at the Sangre Grande hospital and a new TT$172 million diagnostic centre is expected.

Khan stated that

about two dozen nurses are expected from St. Lucia amid ongoing shortages in that sector; and disclosed that an audit of the system of pharmacies falling under regional health authorities is underway in light of complaints of shortages of state-subsidised drugs.

The minister further related that while there had been “a little delay” with the planned National Oncology Centre, the unspecified issue has been “ironed

out” and the centre is expected to open in April 2015.

Addressing a Cabinet media briefing held last week at the Office of the Prime Minister, St Clair, Khan reported that the Arima facility will contain 150 beds, and the old Arima Health Facility developed. He said he hoped to turn the sod in September for the project, the contractor of which was previously announced as China Railway Construction Corporation.

In relation to Sangre Grande hospital, Khan indicated that there had been 70 percent and 20 percent increases in demand for orthopaedic services and oncology respectively.

The TT$65 million extension would involve 32 additional beds, including 16 in oncology, 16 in orthopaedic services, treatment rooms and a digital X-Ray room.

The new diagnostic centre would seek to address the concern that there are 800,000 pa-

tients served annually, yet only one CT or MRI machine at some facilities. In relation to the shortage of drugs, he noted there has been a “break-down of communication” in relation to the system used to manage the process. However, he insisted regional health authorities have long been told that where there are shortages, they are authorised to replenish stocks directly. (TT Newsday)

Texila American University expanding Caribbean operations

- building US$12 million medical campus in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Looking to establish itself as the best medical school in the Caribbean, the Texila American University which started operations in Guyana in 2010, will soon be building a stateof-the-art campus at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Speaking to Guyanese media via Skype from the university’s offices in New Jersey, USA, Director for International Operations Ashok Kumar said the design for the building has been completed and is in the process of being approved.

He is hoping that the process will be completed within three months, so that construction will commence soon after.

According to Kumar, when completed, the new US$12 million campus,

outfitted with all modern facilities, will have the capacity to accommodate 1000 students from across the world.

The Providence facility will complement and prevent overcrowding at the Goedverwagting/

Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara campus.

The East Coast Demerara campus currently has over 350 students from 35 countries, and would be matriculating another 120 in the new academic year.

The majority of the students are from India and African countries, with some from the U.S. and Canada.

Hospital

On completion of the Providence project, the university will em-

bark on another physical infrastructure programme—the construction of a hospital for students to do their clinical rotations.

Currently, some students at the university do their clinical rotations at the Georgetown Public Hospital and others at hospitals in the U.S. and the Philippines.

According to Kumar, the hospital which is expected to be built in the next three to five years will be a general hospital at first, but would gradually move to become a specialty hospital. This, he said would be in keeping with government’s drive to make Guyana a medical tourism destination.

The Texila American University is owned by a group of businessmen based in Hong Kong, of whom Saju Bhaskar, an Indian national, is one of

the majority shareholders.

Bhaskar is also the Chief Executive Officer of ALLTERE Education Management, which is the project management and international execution arm of Texila American University.

The ALLTERE education group is an education project management company that manages education projects in China and the Philippines. ALLTERE has wide experience in trans-national education in India and abroad.

The Texila American University began operations in Guyana at the Critchlow Labour College, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown, with seven students, before moving to the Goedverwagting, Sparendaam campus about three years ago. (Guyana Times)

St. Vincent gov't denies swapping parrots for German aid

KINGSTOWN, ST. VINCENT:

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines government has denied that it is engaged in trading a number of the endangered local Amazona guildingii parrots for vehicles from Germany.

Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar dismissed the allegations made by Lauron Baptiste, a candidate for the Opposition New Democratic Party, (NDP) in the next general elections, saying the government had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Berlin-based Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP) so as to ensure the survival of the parrots in case of a natural disaster.

Baptiste had announced during the Opposition-led protest march in the capital last month that the Ministry of Agriculture had already received three vehicles as part of the arrangement.

"There are three vehicles right now for three officials at the Ministry of Agriculture, they 'fraid to clear them. You know why? Because they were supposed to trade off our parrots again for three vehicles...," said Baptiste, a former employee at the ministry.

"Thirteen pairs of parrots were supposed to go to Germany again and the vehicles are at the wharf for three officials, and they have been sitting there for quite a while. You will hear more about this," Baptiste said, adding that he would like the media to investigate the allegation.

But Caesar told Caribbean media that the government had an agreement with the Berlin-based ACTP "just in case we have a very bad natural disaster, where the wildlife is significantly impacted in a negative way. Pursuant to the agreement, they are to work with the conservation of the National Bird....They are contributing by giving technical assistance and equipment to protect the parrot in the wild and also to protect those in captivity."

He added: "those three jeeps, I was advised by the Forestry Department, will be soon handed over to the Forestry Division for them to continue their surveillance work in the forest and to ensure that our National Bird and the heritage of it is properly protected."

Caesar confirmed that there are about 35 local parrots at the German conservatory. (Caribbean News)

Three more to sue Caribbean Airlines

NEW YORK, USA: An attempt by Caribbean Airlines Limited to prevent three more persons from suing for personal injuries arising from the crash landing of Caribbean Airlines Flight BW 523 in Guyana three years ago, was denied by a U.S. district court judge last Wednesday (August 13) in Brooklyn, New York.

In a multi-district litigation, numerous plaintiffs brought suit against defendant Caribbean Airlines Limited for personal injuries arising from the crash landing of Caribbean Airlines Flight BW 523 in Guyana on July 30, 2011. Plaintiffs were traveling from Florida to Georgetown, and while landing in Georgetown, Flight BW 523 overshot the runway, and plaintiffs sustained personal injuries.

Claims

Marley Coffee expanding distribution across Canada

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Marley Coffee has inked a deal with one of the largest independent coffee and tea manufacturers in North America—RealCup brand.

The partnership will see Marley Coffee distributing single-serve capsules of coffee throughout Canada. This follows a landmark contract last year to supply Kroger and Safeway—the largest retail stores in the U.S.—with roasted coffee products.

Marley Coffee operates a local and U.S. division under the chairmanship of Rohan Marley, son of late reggae legend Bob Marley. The company will expand distribution with three major Canadian grocery chains, namely Loblaw, Longos, and two-time partner Safeway.

gle-serve capsules across Canada.

The caption of the opinion and order stated that it applied to the claims of plaintiffs Rajendra Persaud, 64, and Prampatie Persaud, 64, from Florida; and Shanti Persaud, 34, and her two children, ages 10 and 7, from Guyana. Both plaintiffs Rajendra and Prampatie Persaud have since settled their claims against Caribbean Airlines. The claims of Shanti Persaud and her two children, however, remain active.

Caribbean Airlines had requested that the opinion and order be amended to apply as well to three similarly situated plaintiffs Abdool Latif, Maylene Persaud and Ernest Scott, whose claims remain active.

At a conference before Magistrate Judge Joan M Azrack on September 24, 2013, attorneys for the remaining three plaintiffs (Latif, Maylene

Caribbean Airlines brought a motion "to dismiss" in several of the cases, asserting that the Warsaw Convention governed those plaintiffs' claims and that the treaty's forum provision deprived the court of subject matter jurisdiction. On May 16, 2014, the court issued an "Opinion and Order" holding that the Warsaw Convention does not govern these claims because Guyana is not a party to the Convention. Accordingly, the court denied Caribbean Airlines' motion to dismiss, and granted plaintiffs leave to amend their complaints.

Persaud and Scott) consented to inclusion in the then-pending motion to dismiss for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. They were inadvertently omitted from the caption in the May 16 opinion and order, and the opinion and order was then amended to apply to them.

On June 27, this year, Caribbean Airlines requested that the court certify an "interlocutory appeal" from the opinion and order's ruling that the Warsaw Convention does not govern plaintiffs' claims.

After outlining its reasons, U.S. District Court Judge Allyne R Ross ruled on August 13 that Caribbean Airlines has not met its burden of demonstrating that this case presents the "exceptional circumstances" that justify interlocutory review, allowing plaintiffs Latif, Maylene Persaud, and Scott to proceed with their claims. (TT Guardian)

"Canadians from coast to coast will now be able to enjoy the benefits of the Unique filter in the RealCup capsules that gives all of the Marley Coffee blends a truly authentic taste in a single-serve capsule brew," Marley stated in a recent press release.

"Our recent independent testing confirms that the RealCup capsule with our Flavour Max filter delivers a fuller-bodied, more flavourful cup of coffee, compared to the leading brand," he added.

Six of the coffee's most popular blends will be available in Loblaw market and discount banners across Canada in October, while Longos is seeking to have the Marley Coffee distributed in all 26 stores.

Loblaw, Safeway and Longos join the Sobeys and Metro grocery chains in offering Marley Coffee in RealCup sin-

Marley Coffee's first quarter revenues grew by 153 percent to US$2.1 million up from the US$846,000 it recorded a year ago, financials indicated. Despite the growth in revenue, the company reported a net loss of US$1.9 million.

While the company did not disclose projected profitability of the partnership, Canadian retailers have been eager to list brands like Marley Coffee in the RealCup capsule format, Marley said.

The entrepreneur is now looking to create sustainability by having coffee served in recyclable EcoCup capsules next year.

"We are very excited to see the immediate benefits of our partnership with Mother Parkers and their RealCup brand of capsules," he indicated. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Guyana gets new multi-million dollar veterinary laboratory

manager of the new laboratory Dr Dane Hartley explains the technological aspect of the service

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: With assistance from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Guyana now has a Gy$326 million modern veterinary laboratory located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.

The facility was commissioned last week, and according to Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) Dr Dindyal Permaul, the laboratory is geared at protecting consumers from diseases transmitted by animals as well as protecting domestic agricultural products.

He said the brand new edifice is among an illustrious family of agricultural entities, all designed to serve the growing need of the sector.

Manager of the laboratory Dr Dane Hartley stated that there are numerous benefits that could be derived from the establishment of veterinary services laboratories.

Based on a UN report, Dr Hartley revealed that by the year 2050, the world would need 70 percent more food than it currently produces and consumes. He said that while Guyana can boast about being a “food- secured” country, there

still remains an urgent responsibility for it to assist other nations in meeting their nutritional needs.

He added that whenever food leaves the shores of one country for another, citizens of the receiving country would want to be confident that the meat is of optimum health and value.

The establishment of the laboratory, he stressed gives this assurance “through systematic monitoring of the health status and diseases, demonstrating that our livestock is of equal quality as everywhere else”.

Further, the laboratory would create an environment that will see the meat being exported in considerably larger quantities.

Through the GLDA, the laboratory serves as a contributing factor in supporting livestock farmers and all those who form part of the continuum which extends to the wider world.

The laboratory he noted too will also serve as a network of the veterinary laboratories within the Caribbean and South America, by facilitating research and other educational and scientific activities. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica seeks to acquire fever-detecting devices - to guard against Ebola

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Jamaica’s Health Ministry says that it will be moving to acquire fever-detecting devices to use at the island's ports as part of efforts to boost the country's defence against the deadly Ebola and other viruses.

According to Health Minister Dr Fenton Ferguson, his ministry has begun to carry out checks about the device following a recommendation made at a meeting last Thursday between health officials and a team from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

"We have been working with the WHO relative to Ebola and Chikungunya and where we are now, when we met last Thursday, the

point was raised about the machine," indicated the minister.

He noted that since the meeting, the ministry had started discussions and was also checking the cost of the machine with a view to acquiring some of the devices.

"If it represents best practice and it is recommended, I can assure you that Jamaica will be fully on board," reported Ferguson.

He said that different countries within the Caricom were at different stages of development and he was of the view that Jamaica was one of the most experienced in the Region relative to emergency responses to communicable diseases or natural disasters.

As such, he stated that he was determined to do what was necessary to keep the country on par with developments across the world.

The minister made the comment last Wednesday during a Food For the Poor (FFP) presentation of approximately 16,000 units of intravenous fluid to the ministry.

The event was held at the Food For the Poor Chapel, Spanish Town, St Catherine.

"This donation is significant and is valued at over US$15,600 and will go a far way in adding to our present resources in this area," said Minister Ferguson.

Andrew Mahfood, FFP board chairman, said not only was the organisation happy to

make the contribution but was also looking forward to working with the ministry to provide help wherever it was needed.

Health officials re-

port that the Ebola virus is one of the most virulent microbes known to man, killing up to 90 percent of those infected.

According to the

Kevin Hendrickson wins bid for former Wyndham Kingston Hotel

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Hotel

mogul Kevin Hendrickson has won the bid to purchase the former Wyndham Kingston Hotel. Hendrickson's bid of US$17.6 million was accepted at last week's auction of the 303room property that sits in the heart of New Kingston, next door to his Courtleigh Hotel and Suites and the Jamaica Pegasus in which he acquired controlling interest in September 2010.

Hendrickson said the

Caricom

to harmonise business rules

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Caribbean Community (Caricom) has started work towards creating a harmonised framework within which companies and other businesses can be established and operate in the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME). To fulfil this mandate, BKP Development Research and Consulting in consortium with AESA, has been awarded the contract to strengthen the CSME Regulatory and Market Regimes

Caricom heads are striving to ensure that the rules for establishing and operating businesses in one country apply throughout the CSME. The two year consultancy started last month, with funding through the tenth European Development Fund and is expected to be completed by July 2016. (Caribbean News)

purchase will "represent a strategic opportunity to transform the city landscape and present products and services through a full and comprehensive development strategy".

A source close to the development pointed out that although Hendrickson has won the bid, full acquisition will not be realised until after a process of transactions.

In August 2011, the hotel, which was owned by Ocean Chimo Limited, was placed in receivership by RBC Royal Bank Jamaica and RBC

Royal Bank Trinidad and Tobago for unpaid debts estimated at more than US$30 million (Ja$3.3 billion). In 2012, it was placed on the market after Ocean Chimo, which was formed by Jamaican investor Delroy Howell to operate the hotel, failed to get an injunction in the Supreme Court to prevent the appointment of a receiver and the sale of the property by RBC to recover the debt owed to the bank.

An auction planned in April last year was postponed after fire damaged

sections of the hotel. Last July, the Wyndham Hotel Group, which managed the property, pulled its name from the property. In addition to The Courtleigh and Jamaica Pegasus, Hendrickson owns and operates the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston and the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort in Montego Bay. His other interests include the Courtleigh Corporate Centre, Yummy and Holsum bakeries. (Jamaica Observer)

President Ramotar urges improved CSEC results in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: President Donald Ramotar has congratulated the thousands of students who were successful at this year’s Caribbean Secondary Examinations Council (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) in Guyana, but said there was room for improvement.

Speaking at a press conference last Friday, the President remarked that while the results may have been satisfactory, there are still some weak areas that need to be addressed.

The President said overall, he was however proud of what Guyana’s students have been able to accomplish in passing the examinations year after year.

He noted that the results attained by students this year were much better in compar-

ison to the pass rates that would have been secured years ago.

The President urged that the pass rates be used as a foundation for improvement and better results would come about.

Students’ performance at CAPE saw a slight decrease in the overall pass rates,

Education Minister Priya Manickchand had reported. Manickchand was at the time announcing the results of this year’s top performers at the National Centre for Education Research and Development (NCERD) Kingston, Geogetown.

She pointed out that this year there was an 85.07 per-

cent pass rate when compared to the 86.6 percent recorded last year.

A total of 798 candidates wrote the exam, with 64 percent being females. These students were from nine secondary schools and three private institutions. There were some 3465 subject entries.

Guyana offered 40 units at this year’s examination, of which 12 units saw candidates attaining a 100 percent pass rate, counting Grades One to Five. For 25 of the units, students secured a pass rate of 75 percent or higher with Grades One to Five. No unit recorded a pass rate below 50 percent. For the first time, Digital Media was written and secured a 100 percent pass rate. The pass rate in Pure Mathematics remained steady at 58.59 percent this year compared to 57.73 percent the year before. (Guyana Times)

Guyanese captures Miss Jamzone 2014 crown

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: In a night of fulfilled promises, spectacular dances, laughter, music and an exquisite fashion display, Guyana’s Soyini Fraser was crowned Miss Jamzone International 2014 at the National Cultural Centre last Friday evening.

Elegance, intelligence, grace and poise were all features that Fraser epitomised as she took to the stage and won the coveted title and US$10,000, which has been elusive to Guyana since the pageant expanded to include Caribbean countries quite a number of years ago.

Miss Barbados, Dannyelle Leslie and Miss Bahamas Lexi Wilson were named first and second runner-ups respectively. Meanwhile, Miss Trinidad and Tobago Yaya Henry and Miss Jamaica placed fourth and fifth respectively.

Miss USA Kadian Collins and Miss St. Vincent and the Grenadines Aphesha Matthews were eliminated before the final stage of the contest.

In addition to the top prize, Fraser also copped the prizes for Best National Costume and Best Fantasy Swimwear. Trinidad and Tobago’s Miss Henry took home the prizes for Best Smile and Best General Swimwear.

In addition, the People’s Choice Award and Best Gown went to Miss St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The contest got off to an excellent start with each contestant being tasked to showcase their

respective countries. It was in this segment that the winner, Miss Guyana, said to the other contestants that the crown was staying home this year.

With a few jokes and an entertaining performance, she took the crowd through the sights and scenes of Guyana, all in five minutes. Her interactive display in this segment was certainly critical in her copping the title.

Miss Barbados and Bahamas also delivered very well. However, it is unclear whether her demeanour was a part of her presentation, but Miss Jamaica appeared to be a bit high during the delivery of a giggly school-girl like performance.

Miss St. Lucia failed miserably in this segment as she could not arouse the interest of the audience during her per-

formance. Miss Trinidad Yaya Henry came off as a bit nervous as she raced through her speech, leaving the audience baffled as to what she was saying.

Next on the agenda was the Fantasy Swimwear Segment, in which Miss Bahamas suffered a major wardrobe malfunction.

Interestingly enough, Miss St. Vincent appeared in a stunning pink swimwear which was a sure crowd favourite.

In the Evening Gown Segment, Miss Jamaica came out in a red dress that was a sight to behold, taking the stage with much grace and poise. Miss St. Vincent however had a misstep and nearly fell. She too had a wardrobe malfunction as her dress straps slipped off from one side of her shoulder. (Guyana Times)

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: If the Jamaica Musical Theatre Company (JMTC) and Tuff Gong International have their way, a musical based on the life of reggae king Bob Marley could be hitting international stages in the near future.

The two entities are partnering to mount ‘Nesta's Rock’ next year, in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of Marley's birth.

‘Nesta's Rock’ is an original musical inspired by Marley's childhood and follows a young boy, Ness, who grows up in Kingston with big dreams. Those dreams are ridiculed by his friends and he soon finds himself on a magical journey, transported to the whimsical farming village of Nine Miles.

According to producer at the JMTC Danielle Stiebel, 'Nesta's Rock' reflects the company's thrust to introduce more

Jamaican aspects into their productions.

"Over the past two years we at the JMTC have really been working on taking Brand Jamaica to an international audience through our productions. We have been adding Jamaican elements to our performances. The decision by Tuff Gong to come to us regarding this production is just perfect timing, and together we are looking to get Broadway's attention with Nesta's Rock," she explained.

The musical is cowritten by Jamaicans Samantha Chin Yee and Jodi Ho Lung, both members of the JMTC. Choreography is by artistic director of The Company Dance Theatre, Tony Wilson.

The production will also see the remake of popular Bob Marley tracks, such as ‘Trench Town Rock’, ‘Redemption Song’ and ‘Could You Be Loved’. (Jamaica Observer)

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

In the ever changing landscape of Guyana, especially in the district of Georgetown, some striking old traditional wooden buildings can still be found. In the conservation of the wooden built heritage, strategies had to be adopted to make the use of historic buildings current so that they can survive for the benefit of future generations. This is so since the original use of the building may not have been sustainable enough to safeguard the future of the building.

The term “adaptive reuse” is common among conservation enthusiasts. It is the act of changing the original function of the building or site in an attempt to ensure the survival of the historic building. This change is usually designed for the benefit of the public and in an effort to garner revenue to aid maintenance.

In adaptive reuse, the aim is to retain the

De Freitas on the occasion of her marriage to Andrew Baldwin. He was a British school teacher who was once employed by Queen’s College.

A team from Charlestown Sawmills led by one “Harry” was

al features stemming mainly from colonial influences including the prominent Demerara shutters, turned timber balusters and English brick columns. It also has Portuguese ceramic floor tiles and the railing and gate bear

aesthetics of the original building especially the facades. In many such projects, the internal areas of the building will be altered to accommodate the new functions of the building.

In this article, a number of historic buildings will be featured, most of which now serve various functions from what they were originally built for, that is, private dwellings. Some still retain their original purpose such as Austin House.

Brazilian Ambassador’s Residence

This residence, located on the corner of Peter Rose and Anira Streets in Queenstown, was built in 1939-40 by the De Freitas brothers for their sister, Aurelia

responsible for the erection of the house, all timber and materials having been procured from this establishment. Its ‘Brazilian connection’ was initiated through the association of Mrs Baldwin (nee De Freitas) who acted as liaison for Cruzeiro Airlines, a Brazilian airline that was operating in British Guiana in July 1971 upon retirement of the Baldwins to England.

Woodbine House –now Cara Lodge

The building is located at 294 Quamina Street. It was built in the 1840s and was called the Woodbine House and was home to several influential owners. Now a heritage hotel, this building constitutes a variety of architectur-

the crest of Woodbine House.

This heritage hotel has successfully merged the beauty of traditional architecture with contemporary luxury and comfort.

Dargan House – now UNESCO office

This traditionally designed building is located on the corner of Robb and Oronoque Streets. It was named after its first and most influential owner Patrick Dargan (1850-1908), a lawyer and politician. It was purportedly built circa 1880. This elegant two-storey wooden building features a unique grand staircase constructed of local wood and is a splendid example of traditional colonial architecture. It was purchased by the

government of Guyana in 1975. It now houses the office of the Guyana National Commission for UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation).

Austin House

Home of the Anglican Bishops of Guyana, Austin House is named after Bishop William Piercy Austin (18071892) who lived in the original building on the site. Opened in 1842 as the Bishop’s residence, the original building was U-shaped, and was known as Kingston House. Kingston House, in disrepair, was demolished in early July 1894 and construction of a new structure started later in the month.

This second building, handed over on October 5 1894, is the structure we know today as Austin House, which is located on High Street, Kingston. The 1894 structure is credited to the construction company capability of John Bradshaw Sharples (possibly John Bradshaw) and is typi-

cal of the colonial structures of the day with steep roofs, Demerara windows and six-paned Georgian windows.

During the tenure of Bishop Swaby (up to 1899) the building was known as Bishop’s Court.

In the 1930s, the ground floor was enclosed to provide more space for offices and in the 1950s the stained glass windows over the main entrance were added. In 2012, major restorative works were done by architect Rawle Jordon.

Sharples House –now Duke Lodge

Sharples House, located on the northern portion of Lot 93 Duke Street, Kingston, on the western side of the street, was constructed circa 1890. Kingston was the first area of settlement of the British in Georgetown and this particular part of the street, north of Barrack Street, boasts a fine ensemble of 19th century historic wooden colonial homes.

A distinctive feature

of this building is the centrally placed open entrance porch with its classical entablature (horizontal roof beam resting on the columns) with a cornice (the top slightly projecting part of the roof beam) and a combined frieze/architrave (the lower part) with running panels of figures – one female, one animal and one male (left to right).

This building is now an apartment building in conjunction with the Duke Lodge Hotel.

GO-INVEST office

Located on the corner of Camp and Church Streets, this impressive colonial style structure was designed by H O Durham and constructed circa 1925.

The imposing facade of push-out jalousie windows on the top floor and with glass windows running the full length of the gallery below join with arches and stairways and high wall within to create a warmth and comfort and security that is almost tangible. The southern tower anchors the building firmly carrying a special feature known as a window’s walk.

Upon construction, the building was then purchased by E Kidman and was later sold to a Dr Browne. In the 1940s, the property was acquired by Dr Frederick M Kerry and became the Kerry family home until 1979 when Mrs Eleanor Kerry sold the property to the government of Guyana. The property was then converted to commercial use and became the offices of Design and Graphics – the government-owned advertising agency at the time. Today it houses the offices of GO-INVEST, the Guyana Office for Investment. (National Trust of Guyana)

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: One of Guyana’s most versatile singing sensations, and a member of the X2 band was recently listed as the recipient of the 2014 Guyana Cultural Association Folk Festival Award in Brooklyn, New York.

Adrian Dutchin was duly recognised for his accomplishments in the performing arts that are representative of the inspiration derived from Guyana’s rich cultural heritage.

His span of appearances in the Guyanese and Caribbean diaspora with a cross section of top artistes has been impressive over the years, and this has led to him being a recipient of the award.

The Guyana Cultural Association Folk Festival Award ceremony is an annual event in Brooklyn, NY. On August 27, the committee will present awards

to individuals for their work that represents meaningful contributions to the improvement of inter-ethnic dialogue and feelings of trust in Guyanese society at home and in the diaspora.

In an interview with Guyanese media, Dutchin thanked the committee for considering him for the award. He said that the award serves as a motivation to aim for bigger things. He is currently on that track since he is expected to release two singles shortly.

He dedicated the award to his fans for their support over the years and more so, his family. The proud father of two is also the recipient of the West Indian Music Award (WIMA) for Best Performer of the Year which he won for two consecutive years (2012 and 2013).

Dutchin also received the award for the Best Soca Song in 2013 with “Jook”.

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: Boys and girls from all over Trinidad and Tobago went head to head in a culinary challenge to see who has what it takes to be the next Junior Chef Champion.

Showcasing tremendous creativity and skill, some competitors were able to fight off the nerves and present dishes that could probably grace the cover of any popular food magazine while others buckled under the pressure. For one competitor the competition almost proved to be too much as she fought her way through the tears to present an incomplete dish to the judges.

Hosted by Courtyard Marriott Hotel, the competitors came out as early as 9 a.m. last Saturday. They were given one hour to come up with a dish with ingredients from a mystery basket. The mystery ingredients included: chicken/fish, potatoes, parsley and pineapple. The pantry was also open to the challengers to get additional ingredients if they needed; to help compose their dish.

John Paul Grimes seemed quite relaxed as he prepared his dish comprising a fritta muffin, pan-seared chicken served with mashed potatoes and chick peas sauce.

He said, “I always had a passion for cooking. I felt pretty confident with my dish and I think it turned out great.”

Eleven year old, Alysa-Marie Hepburn another competitor in the competition also seemed to be having fun in the kitchen.

“I have been cooking since the age of five. I wanted to enter this competition for the experience and the training. I hope one day to be a chef and I also wanted to see if I was able to do it and see what the lifestyle of a chef is like,” she related.

The competitors were judged on presentation, portion size and nutritional balance, menu accuracy, creativity, taste, texture and flavour balance.

The finalists for the competition were selected via a video cooking demo. Children age 10-12 were invited to participate in a culinary video competition. From there the top ten were selected and invited to participate in a week of culinary training under the guidance of captain of the Trinidad and Tobago Culinary team and Marriott’s head chef, Raymond Joseph.

For one week, the finalists were trained in technique, preparation and presentation. Touching on several areas in culinary management, the children learnt safety and sanitation, culinary terms, knife techniques and types of cuts, preparing pasta and rice and cooking methods to name a few.

Finalists for the competition included: Chaela Wooding, Jessica Aguilera, John Paul Grimes, Shaniah Rudden, Jadden James, AlysaMarie Hepburn, Mekhai Small, Johnathan Ward, Zaria Ramatally and Azizah Rivers. This is the third annual Junior Chef competition and the winner will be announced later this week. (TT Express)

Jamaica Youth Theatre wins Global Video Challenge

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Jamaica Youth Theatre (JYT) has won a worldwide video challenge aimed at preventing violence against women.

News of the triumph came Sunday from Global Dialogues, a United Kingdomregistered charity that says it promotes "global public health and societal well-being through integrated, youth-driven solutions fuelled by creativity and multidisciplinary partnership".

The JYT's winning short film, titled ‘Stop Violence Against Women’, was directed by Akeem Mignott from a concept by Danar Royal and featured Petrina Williams,

Brian Johnson, Kellesia Ebanks and Mignott.

Sunday, Global Dialogues explained that its video challenges "are an innovative, intercreative approach to mak-

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Trinidadian antibullying activist Jeromy Rodriguez may soon add another title to his already impressive list of accolades–that of television presenter.

Plans are stream for Rodriguez, 12, to host a threeminute fitness segment for young people on television sometime in September in an attempt to reduce bullying in the nation’s schools.

Rodriguez said the programme will mostly target overweight teens, whom he believes are more susceptible to bullying in the school system.

Titled ‘Three Minutes To Get Fit’, Rodriguez said the programme, which is expected to run for 13 episodes around 5 pm on weekdays, will encourage youngsters to eat healthy and exercise regularly.

The reigning Junior National Soca Monarch, Rodriguez was bestowed with the prestigious Minister’s Award during the 14th instalment of the National Youth Awards function at the Queen’s Hall in St Ann’s, last Tuesday night.

The soon-to-be Form Two Cowen Hamilton Secondary School student was among 40 young people honoured by the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Child Development for excellence in their respective fields.

They were among close to 150 youths who were nominated for outstanding work in their communities.

Rodriguez, who was honoured specifically for his antibullying campaigns and community work, also received a cheque for TT$3,000, a portrait and certificate in recognition of his contribution.

Of the award, the effervescent youngster said, “I feel ex-

ing short YouTube films on global social issues".

Essentially, Global Dialogues produces the beginning of a short film and posts it to YouTube after which young peo-

ple across the world compete by creating and uploading videos that continue and finish the story.

Participants are asked to make videos

cited and glad that I won the minister’s award. I work very hard and it really paid off. It is a big honour that shows that the minister respects me and I respect him.”

Rodriguez shot to the national spotlight last year when he won the National Junior Soca Monarch title and later established the Anti-Bullying Association of Trinidad and Tobago–the first of its kind in the Caribbean–to address what at that time had become a worrying trend in the country. He had taken note of the devastating effects of bullying on the lives of young children after his own sister, Vicky, was confronted with it at the

that reflect their vision of a better world, helping characters in the film to find positive solutions to the problems they face.

Reacting to the JYT's victory Mignott said the group joins in the chorus of voices calling for an end to the violence that affects an estimated one in three women in her lifetime.

"Violence against women must not be tolerated, in any form, in any context, in any circumstance. There can be no exceptions, no excuses and no delay," he was quoted in a news release.

Ebanks, in her response, said: "Our participation in this Global Dialogues Video Challenge has stimulated discussion and debates in our local com-

munities on the issue of eliminating violence against women, especially in Jamaica, which may require shifting traditions, attitudes, stereotypes and roles as we know them."

Jamaica Youth Theatre was founded in 2004 and comprises young people with a burning passion for theatre.

The group says it recruits members from the annual Secondary Schools' Drama Festival and creates cutting-edge popular theatre targeting young people as a means of social change, with a commitment to using Jamaican indigenous forms and popular culture to engage its audience. (Jamaica Observer)

Film on Grenada Revolution a hit in U.S.,UK

bruce Paddington in front of the poster for the showing of his film in St. Lucia (TT Guardian photo)

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: When Bruce Paddington produced and directed ‘Forward Ever: The Killing of a Revolution’, a film about the Grenada Revolution and the circumstances surrounding the execution of Maurice Bishop and his colleagues, he was acting on a burning desire to create a comprehensive record of the key events of the revolution, having been impressed with what he saw on his visit to the island during the revolutionary period.

But he hadn’t catered for the overwhelming response that the film has received to date.

Having been screened in ten countries in only nine months, ‘Forward Ever: The Killing of a Revolution’, which is often followed by a post-screening discussion, has generated a buzz of activity worldwide, among analysts of the Grenada revolution, filmmakers and of course the Grenadian diaspora.

And those who are old enough to remember are not the only ones who flock to ‘Forward Ever’.

Moruga Secondary School.

This led him to write the song ‘Hear My Cry’, which was quickly followed up by three more anti-bullying offerings, ‘Mr Bully’, ‘No Bad Boy Thing For Me’ and ‘Unheard Cries’. Rodriguez also has claimed the International Junior Soca Caribbean Champion award and was crowned the young soca artiste of the year during the International Soca Awards 2013.

On August 27, the young artiste will leave local shores for seven days to perform at Labour Day celebrations in New York, United States. There, he is expected to perform at four major events. (TT Newsday)

“What I also find compelling is the interest that young people— people who might not have even been born when the revolution took place—have in the film,” said Paddington.

The film has also gained critical acclaim. In St. Lucia, the veteran journalist Earl Bousquet praised the film as a work of art that “allows images to tell stories, accompanying still photos with explanatory narratives while allowing those who were there to tell their unvarnished stories.”

Les Slater of Caribbean Life News believes, “a huge debt is owed to the filmmaker Bruce Paddington for the very important document he assembled for the Caribbean archives.”

John Green of the Morning Star newspaper in the United Kingdom argues, “Paddington’s documentary is a gripping and revealing account of the Grenada revolution as never seen before.”

This year, the film has been screened in London at the British Library and at the British Film Institute on Southbank as part of its African Odysseys programme.

It made its New York City debut in June, with former head of the Transport Workers Union, Roger Toussaint, a Trinidadian, with the Caribbean Awareness group, as a collaborator.

Also supporting the film was Michelle Materre, the director of Creatively Speaking, an organisation which highlights important films which feature people of colour and their histories. (TT Guardian)

Auditions to start soon for Guyanese movie ‘Upriver’

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: The upcoming Guyanese movie, ‘Upriver’, was officially launched at the opening of the inaugural Guyana Festival recently.

The movie, which is currently in pre-production, will be released in 2015. The Dramatic Arts Academy (DAA), the banner under which the movie will be produced, is extremely grateful to acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali for the opportunity afforded for the launch.

Also, the DAA would like to thank Impressions for realising the booth. Hundreds of patrons, both local and overseas, flocked the ‘Upriver’ tent and from feedback received, they were enthralled by the promotional video.

They lauded the noticeably different approach to local film making and commended the effort. Patrons clearly could not hide their excitement for the release of the movie. President Donald Ramotar

graced the tent and interacted with the staff. He also commended the effort and extended best wishes for its production.

Some 300 persons of all ages and from all backgrounds took the opportunity to register for auditions which will be held soon in various parts of the country.

Over 120 persons, including three foreign actors, will comprise the cast with 90 percent of the movie being filmed in the interior. Online auditions would be facilitated shortly at www.uprivergy. com.

Written by Neaz Subhan, winner of the best playwright title for ‘When Chocolate Melts’ in the 2013 National Drama festival, 'Upriver' with its captivating story-line, is set deep in the heart of Guyana’s forests and would present a thrilling and chilling rollercoaster ride through this vastness.

In addition to the entertaining adventure it will capture, 'Upriver'

Wcelebration held recently at the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC.

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

decide which country should stage the World Cup.

More than 100 members of the diaspora and friends of Jamaica attended the event held in collaboration with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Alumni Association of Washington, DC. Professor Morris, referring to aspects of his latest book: ‘Miss Lou: Louise Bennett and Jamaican

will present Guyana’s eco-tourism in a format that is captivating to an international audience. Guyana’s natural beauty through its pristine forests, breathtaking and iconic waterfalls, rolling savannahs, majestic mountains and flora and fauna, has always been magnetic to those with cameras.

The numerous images captured have been mind-blowing and over the years have propelled unprecedented interest. Filmmakers, especially, cannot resist this enticing attraction to enthusiastically present the astounding cuts to viewers around the world. Documentaries produced by international film entities have proven this.

The marketing influence of films needs no convincing. It can propel Guyana to become a major international filming location with resounding economic opportunities. Guyana has the potential, both in its beauty and the talent of its people. (Guyana Times)

In a new book about Nelson Mandela, the late South African president’s most trusted aide, Zelda la Grange, mentions Mandela’s travel to Trinidad.

‘Good Morning Mr Mandela’ is Grange’s intimate account of Mandela’s life while being his typist and secretary for 20 years after he was released from jail. In the book launched two months ago, Grange writes how a very tired Mandela made the decision to travel to Trinidad, to lobby for the country’s support for South Africa’s bid to stage the 2010 FIFA football World Cup.

La Grange, a white South African, became Mandela’s constant companion, travelling with him to different parts of the world after he was released from jail in apartheid South Africa and became that country’s president.

Culture’, presented an outstanding assessment of Miss Lou's contribution to Jamaica's literary tradition.

Among other things, the poet laureate noted Miss Lou's use of the Jamaican language, her skilful interweaving of Jamaican life into her poetry, the presentation of her views through "Aunty Roachy", her contribution to the development of the Jamaican pantomime, and her talent promotion through Ring Ding and other initiatives.

After a lively question-andanswer session, the audience received an additional treat when Professor Morris read some of his own poetry. Among the poems presented to the appreciative audience were: ‘The Pond’, ‘The Day My Father Died’, and works from ‘I Been There, Sort Of’, and ‘Case History, Jamaica’.

Jamaica's ambassador to the United States Professor Stephen Vasciannie gave the welcome, while Malene Alleyne offered remarks on behalf of the UWI Alumni Association. (JIS)

‘Good Morning Mr Mandela’ is listed on Amazon.com as a best seller in United States and Europe. The book was released on June 24.

‘Good Morning Mr Mandela’ tells the extraordinary story of how an awkward young typist in her late 20’s, came to spend most of her adult working life traveling with, supporting and caring for the man she called “Kulu” or “grandfather”.

Grange became Mandela’s most trusted aide and writes on page 216 of her book that in April 2004, Tokyo Sexwale, who was the former premier of Gauteng Province (one of nine provinces in South Africa), visited Mandela in 2004 as one of the members of the FIFA bid committee, to

Grange wrote, “Tokyo announced that they wanted Mandiba (Mandela) to go to Trinidad and Tobago to help in the lobbying. Mandiba was tired and didn’t feel like travelling. At first he said ‘No’.”

Grange went on to write that Tokyo persisted in requesting Mandela travel to Trinidad.

Grange wrote, “Tokyo didn’t let go and two nights later, we were on our way to Trinidad and Tobago. We were unable, as his advisers, to maintain the consistency of implementing his decisions.”

Grange continued to write that when they landed at Piarco, she looked through the airplane window and saw that the TT government had put out a full guard of honour for Mandiba’s arrival, “when we had asked them not to”.

About the guard of honour which comprised TT’s national security detail in full regalia, Grange writes in her book that she asked Tokyo to intervene.

Grange writes that Tokyo telephoned former FIFA vice president Jack Warner from the airplane. Describing Warner as the man who wielded power in TT as the FIFA representative, Grange states Tokyo invited Warner into the airplane. Grange states, “We were told that the guard of honour at the airport was simply a receiving line and Mandiba would be free to depart from the airport immediately.”

Grange describes Mandela’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago as a “battle”. (TT Newsday)

Though she shares the same surname with Priyanka and Parineeti, bagging a role in Bollywood was not easy for Miss India 2009 winner Pooja Chopra.

The sexy lass, who made her debut with a special appearance in Madhur Bhandarkar's ‘Fashion’, in 2008, had to wait for four-long years before bagging a lead role in ‘Commando’. In Ranchi, for the promotions of an apparel brand she endorses, the model-actress talked about her injury, her upcoming movies, life, career and so on. Excerpts:

So, how's your Bollywood career shaping up?

It was a good start for me in Bollywood, with ‘Commando’, but then I injured my leg and everything went for a toss. However, my life is back on track now.

Don't you think that a Miss India title is a sure-shot ticket to Bollywood?

Everyone thinks so. But then it is not the reality. Of course, the Miss India title makes you a celebrity overnight. You get to meet everyone and everyone is willing to meet you. However, the fact is, Miss India or no Miss India, you'll bag a role only if you are suitable for a certain character and can work hard on it. (TOI)

Hrithik Roshan continues to remain a favourite with Sussanne Khan's family.

Not only is he an integral part of birthday and festival celebrations in his estranged wife's home; on his part, he makes it a point to wish each of Sussanne's siblings, her cousins and her parents on their birthdays.

Just recently, he was confirming whether it was Sussanne's first cousin Laila Khan Furniturewala's birthday so that he could send her flowers on the occasion. (TOI)

Bipasha Basu: Wearing bikini not a big deal for me

Actress Bipasha Basu says that donning a bikini for a role is okay if you are fit and confident that you would look good in it.

"Wearing a bikini is not a big deal for me. If you are fit, you are going to look good. If it's a glamorous film, it will add to your glamour," said Bipasha in an interview.

The actress was seen in the twopiece in ‘Dhoom 2’ and ‘Players’.

"It is not a big deal for me anymore because the first time when I wore it, I was petrified. During ‘Dhoom 2’ I was getting into fitness. After that I am very critical about the (bikini) body because I am so much into fitness that I feel you have to look correct and you

can't look cheesy.

"I have worn it in ‘Players’ also in 'Humshakals' they wanted us to wear it...I don't think much about it," she said. (TOI)

Sonam Nair to direct sex comedy

Sonam Nair, who made her directorial debut with 'Gippi', will now helm a sex comedy under Dharma Productions.

After making Gippi, a film based on an overweight teenager and her life's problems, Nair is set to direct a sex comedy.

"I am directing a sex comedy which will go on floors by end of this year. It will be produced by Dharma. The film is written and directed by me," Nair told media.

When asked how easy or difficult it was to convince Karan Johar of

Dharma Productions, she said: "I gave him the script. He said okay, go ahead with it. I am quite excited about the film."

Alia Bhatt attempts to get over dark room phobia

Not the one to sleep without a dim light aglow in her room, Alia Bhatt is now trying to sleep without one.

"But I still sleep with a curtain slightly open," she says. Apparently, her fear from darkness stems from childhood when her sister would keep her locked up in a dark room. "I'd keep crying to get me out of the room. I think my fear for dark rooms began since then." (TOI)

Arjun Kapoor: My professional life helped me sort out my personal life

At the time of his debut in 2012, Arjun Kapoor was staring at an emotional nadir, with the death of his mother coinciding with the release of his first film.

Two years down the line, the young star is the calmest he has ever

Arpita

Talking about the cast, she said: "We will have newcomers and some known faces in the film." (TOI)

been in his personal life and is ready to expand his acting repertoire with HomiAdajania's ‘Finding Fanny’, which, he says has helped him in the process of self-discovery.

"Earlier, I was working to fill the void in my life, but I realised I can't fill it with work. Everyone doesn't get everything but work helps, meeting new people helps, doing films like ‘Finding Fanny’ helps—it took me away from the monotony of a typical film and took my mind away from other things. I got time to transform into Savio, my character, and that time, I got to be with myself. It's a dichotomy, but my professional life helped me sort out my personal life. For me, ‘Finding Fanny’ was an exit from the film world into a fictional world that Homi had created," says Arjun. (TOI)

Khan and beau Aayush ink each other’s names

Salman Khan's sister Arpita, who is all set to tie the

knot with her Delhibased boyfriend Aayush Sharma in January

next year, has got her beau's name inked on her forearm. She uploaded her tattoo's picture on a photo-sharing website recently, captioning it "Soon to be Mrs Aayush Sharma." The bride-tobe also shared a picture of the tattoo that Aayush sports on his wrist, which reads her name and thanked him for the gesture. She already has a star-shaped tattoo on her forearm, with names of almost all the Khan family members written around it. (TOI)

Shah Rukh Khan: Creativity is a lone process

Shah Rukh Khan says his life may be seen like an open book, but there is part about his personality that no one knows about.

"My life is like an open book, everywhere I go people see my picture, Twitter...everything...I am very happy that people think they know everything about me. But there is a side of me which people do not know about," said Shah Rukh during a group interview.

Explaining his point, he said: "Business of entertainment is about being aware of what people like...The creativity is a very solo thing, it's very lone and it is done behind the closed doors. My creativity is very lonely, which nobody understands...I don't discuss the process."

Actress-model Kelly Brook says she prefers her fiancé David McIntosh when he smells "sweaty" from the gym. She prefers her partner's "natural" scent than the aftershaves he uses, reports femalefirst. co.uk.

"I like him just coming back from the gym. I like the sweat smell to be honest. I think that's

the best smell on a man---natural," she said.

She goes on to say that McIntosh likes to splash out on expensive perfumes for her.

She said: "I've never bought expensive perfume. David bought me some really expensive perfume from Harrods recently. He's obsessed with fragrance so he always buys me really high end perfume." (TOI)

Jason Statham named as UK's celebrity manliest man

Jason Statham has been named as the UK's celebrity manliest man beating likes of David Beckham and Gerard Butler for the title.

The 'Transporter' star topped the national survey by getting 24 percent votes, whereas Ray Winstone slipped into second spot with 18 percent votes, Contactmusic reported.

Tom Hardy grabbed the third spot in the survey with 10 percent votes in his kitty.

Butler and Beckham secured their fourth position with 8 percent votes. (TOI)

Sylvester Stallone prepping for 'Rambo 5'

Hollywood action star Sylvester Stallone has revealed that he is preparing himself to begin shooting for 'Rambo 5'.

The 68-year-old 'Expendables' ringleader says he's starting to work out to get ready for his return as John Rambo in the fifth film. The last 'Rambo' film came out in 2008, re-

ported Ace Showbiz. "I'm getting ready for 'Rambo 5'. I'm starting to work out. I'm going to be appropriately vicious and all that stuff, but intellectual. A killer with a heart. Smart, yet stupid. Tall, yet short. Broad, but thin. You know what I mean. We're going to try to cover all the boundaries," Stallone said. (TOI)

Scarlett Johansson satisfies pregnancy cravings with ice cream

Actress Scarlett Johansson satisfied her pregnancy craving before a movie date with fiancé Romain Dauriac by indulging in ice cream.

Eonline.com reports that the 29-year-old mom-to-be looked casual, chic and comfortable while wearing a chambray shirt, leggings,

sneakers and sunglasses as she and Dauriac strolled through New York City Sunday. While Johansson was having ice cream, Dauriac was seen holding a packet.

Johansson hasn't spoken publicly about her pregnancy, but her baby bump speaks for itself. (TOI)

Kate Moss parties with Madonna

Aug 16.

Moss joined Madonna in celebrating her birthday at a lavish party at a private villa, where the two were pictured cosying up together, reports contactmusic.com.

Madonna posted the photo of herself wearing a beaded black dress next to the model, who was clad in a strappy black gown, on her Instagram account Sunday.

She captioned the image: "Bow down Bitches! #whatitfeelslikeforagirl. (sic)"

Blake Lively wants to start family soon

Actress Blake Lively wants to "get started" on having children with her husband Ryan Reynolds.

The 26-year-old, who married the 37-year-old actor in a secret ceremony in September 2012, says they want a "litter of kids", reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"I gotta get started. If I could spit out a litter of

kids, I would," she said. Lively loves children and has a strong

bond with her nieces and nephews.

She said: "My mom and my dad, my sisters, my brothers, my family is a huge source of inspiration to me, and not just my siblings and my parents, but I look to the children in my family, the purity with which they look at the world, the excitement that they have.” (TOI)

Gisele Bundchen globally top-earning model

Brazilian beauty

Gisele Bundchen has topped Forbes magazine's list of the highest earning models for the eighth consecutive year.

The 34-year-old is said to have earned $47 million last year, courtesy her contracts with Chanel, H&M, Carolina Herrera and her deal with shoemaker Grendene, for whom she designed a range of jelly shoes, reports contact-

music.com.

Adriana Lima and Doutzen Kroes share the second place on the list with around $8 million of earning each, while the oldest model on the list, Kate Moss, 40, came in third place, along with Miranda Kerr, Kate Upton and Liu Wen, who all took home around $7 million each.

Hilary Rhoda and Alessandra Ambrosio are on the fourth spot with $5 million. (TOI)

Robin Williams hoped to have kids with wife before suicide

Robin Williams and his third wife, Susan Schneider, had been hoping to start a family with the comedic genius before his sudden suicide, it has been revealed.

According to sources, it was Schneider's dream to start a family with the 'Dead Poets Society' star and it would have been nearly impossible for Susan to get pregnant because of her age, 50, but that didn't stop

her from hoping it could happen. They could have used a surrogate or adopted, Radar Online reported.

The insiders claimed that even before Williams' death at age 63, he was very hesitant to have another child, as he was already a father of three and there was also major hesitation because of his history of depression. (TOI)

Demi Moore gifts gun-shaped birthday cake to daughter

If Rumer Willis' Instagram post is anything to go by, her mom and actress Demi Moore presented her a gun-shaped birthday cake.

Rumer, who turned 26, last Saturday, posted a photo of the cake on Instagram and captioned it"Best birthday cake ever. Thank you mama...," reports people.com.

She also posted a selfie with a heartfelt birthday message: "I want to say thank you to everyone who helped me get here...I thank you all because

I would not be the woman I am today without all of you. I can't wait to see what adventures await me." (TOI)

Denzel Washington 'detoxes' post month of partying

Denzel Washington has completed his two-week session of cleansing in lavish Orange County, Los Angeles, after he spent four weeks drinking and partying.

A source told TMZ.com, that it was an "overall" rinsing of toxins for the 59-year-old actor, who was vacationing on a luxury yacht with his wife Pauletta, and that he had taken help from professionals, which included a nutritionist, a trainer and a chef, to get the job done well. (TOI) M

The ‘Frozen’ hitmaker turned 56 on

Her children--Lourdes, 17, Rocco, 14, David, 8, and Mercy, 8--also attended the birthday bash. (TOI)

LETHEM, GUYANA: The expanding town of Lethem lies on the Takutu River, which forms the border with Brazil, opposite the Brazilian town of Bonfim. It is the main commercial centre of the Rupununi in Region Nine. It is also the largest town and the administrative centre of the Rupununi region, and includes a hospital, a police station, an army

camp, a telecommunications station, schools, guesthouses, restaurants and stores. The indigenous population comprises mainly Macushi and Wapishana tribes.

Taking a bus from Georgetown to Lethem can be rough but adventurous. Along the way you may be lucky to see a jaguar. It takes approximately fourteen to sixteen hours to arrive in Lethem via bus but it is

definitely worth the travel. Stops along the way include Mabura Hill, the Kurupukari pontoon crossing, the Iwokrama Rainforest with its Canopy Walkway and Annai. At Lethem you can enjoy observing the skills of rounding up cattle by the vaqueros, or cowboys, on the ranches, hike or relax at the different welcoming accommodations available.(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The producers of the ‘Face of TT 2014’ (FOTT) have announced the competition’s ten finalists emerging from its “Safari Meets the City” Fashion Editorial, which was inspired by the delicate, rural nature and vast wildlife of the African Safari, juxtaposed with the energy and urban vibrancy of the capital city of Port-of-Spain.

The ten finalists, now preparing for an intense period of training and activities, are Amanda Chedu, Amanda Gosein, Anastasia Tomkin, Avionne Gloudon, Daniella Seebaran, Gabrielle Solomon, Kayla Bostic, Rebecca Aird, Ria Highley, and Valini Mangaroo.

Face of TT was conceptualised and created by beauty professional Kirk Thomas, whose extensive client portfolio includes Nicki Minaj, Alison Hinds and The Tyra Banks Show. The FOTT executive also includes photographer Gary Jordan, runway

coach and stylist Nigel Celestine, marketing and event consultant Kristy Ramnarine and media and public relations specialist Tenille Clarke.

With the slogan “Face the industry, Face the intensity, Face of TT!” the project’s central focus is on the face of contestants, and is geared towards exposing many faces of varying ages, ethnicities, lifestyle and geographical compositions.

“As the name suggests, the show reveals the beauty industry’s many layers by tapping into the diversity of our landscape of talented women and their inspirational life stories, while capitalising on the natural supply of exotic women across Trinidad and Tobago and maintaining international standards of training and development for participants,” a release from FOTT said.

The Face of TT Executive will formally present its group of Top Ten Finalists at a media launch later this week. (TT Newsday)

By IndrawattIe natram

ESSEQUIBO, GUYANA:

Danielstown village, situated between Sparta and Coffee Grove, approximately 12 miles from Charity, Essequibo, is a village with a rich history bought by freed slaves in 1840.

The village is 174 years old and is presently celebrating its 7th Homecoming. The community has a special organisation called the Concerned Citizens of Danielstown Inc, which promotes as well as plan activities to bring the people of the village, and elsewhere, together. The Concerned Citizens of Danielstown Inc, whose parent body is located in the U.S., is an organisation that operates within the La Belle Alliance/ Windsor Castle community. The president of the local chapter is Prince Shepherd.

The fast developing community of

Danielstown, with approximately 2000 residents, is today a business hub for many entrepreneurs who have played a major role in the development of the education, cultural and business sectors of the community.

Residents related that, in its initial years, an English man named Daniel, who was the owner of the sugar factory in Sparta, was very instrumental in the de-

velopment of the village. As such, the village was named after him.

The village, as it has always been, is home to people of all ethnicities. According to the oldest resident of the community, Shemroy Britton, Saturday nights were special. The local shops remained opened until 11:00pm. The village of Danielstown was illuminated with bottle lamps (flambo) on the road from one end to the other.

Britton, who is in his late 80s, said music blared in the drinking shops. He noted there were three popular shops, namely: the Corner Shop, Sardar Mohamed and Sonny Teerie.

The elder recalled children could not wait to get on the road Saturday nights to get their special treats, as vendors lined off to sell traditional dishes such as black and white pudding. Additionally, persons

eagerly anticipated the Christmas and Easter celebrations in the village, which were happy occasions shared with everyone.

Recently, the Concerned Citizens of Danielstown Inc planned several activities to coincide with its 14th anniversary and 7th Homecoming aimed at

showcasing the predominantly African communities of Danielstown, La Belle Alliance and Windsor Castle - all on the Essequibo Coast. The homecoming is being held under the theme, “Together we will achieve”. This celebration is an annual one. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Star of the Week

Describing herself as enthusiastic, daring, determined, ingenious and radiant, crowned Miss United Nations International, first Guyanese to win the title, Soyini Asanti Fraser believes it is more important to “stand out than to fit in”. Born on May 8 1990 to Lynden and Deborah Fraser, Soyini has evolved from just a simple and promising Guyanese girl into a beauty queen, model, an aspiring Christian Child-Psychologist, a dancer, TV hostess, role model and a true Guyanese! Coming from a family that is strict on academics, Soyini attended West Ruimveldt Primary moving to Queen’s College and later completing her tertiary education at Life Christian University. Throughout her school life, Soyini has been a member of every school’s athletic body; an active athlete in both track and field events, where she has gained several titles; member of the Pilgrim House and the school’s Steel Pan Orchestra from first to sixth form at Queen’s College. Presently, the beauty keeps active as a company member at the Classique Dance Company, as they travel the Caribbean and U.S. In the pageant arena, Soyini was the first to be crowned Miss Earth Guyana in 2010, and the first Guyanese woman to represent her country at Miss Earth. The following year, she was in the line-up for Miss World Guyana, gaining the first runner-up spot and the title Miss Princess of the World 2011. In Czech Republic, she won Miss Best National Costume Princess of the World with “Guyana’s Dream” by Guyanese designer Olympia Small-Sonaram. Recently, she was crowned Miss Jamzone Guyana 2014. Soyini credits the exemplary person she is today to a sound Christian and educational background with the morals her parents embedded in her as a child to use later on in life as a vehicle to success.

TT’s Jason Ramoutar to fight for World kickboxing title

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: Pan American

Champion and 2013 International Kickboxing World Championship gold medallist, Jason Ramoutar, will be matching fist and feet with Canadian Headley Hinds for the Welterweight Amateur Kickboxing world title in a seven round main event battle put on by Fine Line Fight Factory on Saturday at the Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena, Chaguanas, from 7pm.

With a strong MMA and kickboxing background, Hinds believes he is capable of taking the title back to his country.

However, Ramoutar has been working diligently towards this championship moment and after years of training and competing, he is considered to have paid his dues to the sport and is ready to claim the glory of being the world champion.

The 28-year-old Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard employee has been honing his skills under the guidance of his coach and father, Shihan Bharrath Ramoutar at the Fine Line Fight Factory and is ready and geared for what promises to be an exciting and highly skilled bout.

Featuring in the semi-event, Joel Ramoutar, will challenge Jamaican Akeel Martin for the Bantamweight Pan American title. The younger of the Ramoutars, Joel has also proven himself, having won gold and silver medals at the 2012 and 2013 IKF World Championships respectfully.

The supporting card consists of another title bout as Cassius Chandree of Sangre Grande’s Team Elite vies for the National Middleweight Title against Titanium’s Paul Ramroop.

Six other kickboxing bouts as well as demonstrations from the WuShu Association of Trinidad and Tobago and the Local Wrestling Association will complete the night’s card.

All bouts are part of the annual “Superfly Classic”, an event held in memory of Leroy “Superfly” Isidore, who died in a vehicular accident five years ago.

Isidore, who was known for his lightning fast reflexes and super fast punches, was a Caribbean and national amateur boxer who also successfully represented TT on the international scene at the Commonwealth Games 2006.

He was also an excellent kickboxer and was well-known regionally as ‘The Last Man Standing” having defeated three heavier, stronger and more experienced opponents in Suriname to take the coveted title.

(TT Newsday)

40 and still roaring!

- Guyanese Shivnarine Chanderpaul’s international career may be nearing its end, but his appetite for runs is stronger than when he started out two decades ago

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Milestones are nothing new to Shivnarine Chanderpaul. They have come aplenty in a glittering career that any young cricketer can draw inspiration from.

Just last Saturday, the indomitable, dogged and diminutive West Indies lefthanded middle-order batsman celebrated his 40th birth anniversary, and quite fittingly observed the milestone in the land of his birth.

With the West Indies/ Bangladesh series looming, Chanderpaul, who has been limited to being a Test specialist ever since Coach Ottis Gibson unceremoniously went on a crusade against the “senior players” after the 2011 50-over World Cup, is destined to be the ninth West Indian and third Guyanese to play international cricket beyond age 40.

The incomparable Jamaican George Headley was the oldest West Indian to have played the game, ending a 24-year career at the age of 44. The legendary spinner Lance Gibbs, who called time on his career at 41 years, 129 days, was the oldest Guyanese to do so, while the inspirational Captain Clive Lloyd of the Land of Many Waters played 124 days after his 40th birthday.

Without a doubt, Headley, Gibbs and Lloyd are not just giants of West Indies cricket, but are also names that would feature in any conversation on the game across the globe.

Kments and proof of longevity through two decades of brilliance at the pinnacle of the game.

A stranger to controversy, the “Tiger”, as he is affectionately known, has quietly gone about his business like a shrewd tactician, demonstrating a high level of consistency that has placed him alongside the modern day greats.

The promising 19-yearold who walked out at Bourda on March 17, 1994, and announced himself to the world with a classy 62 on debut against England, has evolved into one of the most reliable batsmen of world cricket, achieving numerous records during an illustrious career.

Twenty years after his en-

try to international cricket, the left-hander from Unity village on the East Coast of Demerara, has appeared in 446 games, scoring over

With Lloyd being the new Convenor of Selectors of the West Indies Cricket Board, it is left to be seen if Chanderpaul will get the opportunity to add to his 268 One Day

Internationals, 8778 runs, 11

centuries and 59 half-centuries.

West Indies have failed to consistently last 50 overs, yet Chanderpaul, by far the most productive batsman of the current generation, has found himself on the sidelines during the 50-over format.

Appearing in the most Test matches by a West Indian, the former captain has amassed 11,414 runs from 156 games, including 29 hundreds and 63 fifties. An average of 51.88 is a clear indication of his consistency.

The Bangladesh series will provide an opportunity for the “Tiger” to leapfrog long-time teammate, batting partner and that mystical genius from Trinidad and Tobago, Brian Lara, who is the leading West Indian runscorer with 11,953.9. (Guyana Times)

Jamaican trio dominates CAREBACO Championships

INGSTON, JAMAICA:

Jamaica’s top senior player

Gareth Henry and Under-19 male and female champions, Samuel Ricketts and Katherine Wynter, respectively, dominated the finals at the 2014 staging of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF)/National Commercial Bank (NCB) Caribbean Regional Badminton Confederation (CAREBACO) Championships at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium at the University of Technology (UTech) Papine Campus last Friday night.

Henry won gold medals in the Open men's singles and Open men's doubles and then took bronze in the Open mixed doubles, while Ricketts copped gold in both the Under-19 (Open) boys' singles and doubles, and silver in the mixed doubles. Wynter also copped gold medals in the Under-19 (Open) girls' singles and doubles and then silver in the mixed doubles.

Henry, who has been struggling with injuries throughout the tournament, showed his class and easily dispatched fellow Jamaican Anthony McNee in two sets (21-17, 21-15) in the final for a well deserved gold medal in the singles.

Henry then returned with teammate Garron Palmer to whip the pair of fellow

they had to settle for a bronze medal after

in the

In the mixed doubles, Gareth

up with sister

The next CAREBACO Championship will be held in Suriname next year. (Jamaica Observer)

Young Guyanese dedicates doublecentury in Toronto to late mom

By RavendRa Madholall

TORONTO, CANADA:

Young and talented opening batsman Harrienarine Chattergoon dedicated the double-century which he scored recently in the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) Premier 50-over competition to his late mom, Shamshadbagam Chattergoon.

The right-hander fashioned a belligerent and historical 268 for Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club who soundly embarrassed Durham Cricket Club at Ashtonbee Park.

His innings only spanned 129 deliveries while he smacked 39 fours and 12 sixes as his team raced to a mammoth 618-6 from the allocation of 50-overs and then bowled

out Durham for a paltry 86.

This season marks Chattergoon second year in succession, and he stated that he is delighted with his form

since his immigration to North America last year.

His mom passed away two years ago in Berbice, Guyana, and Harrienarine mentioned

that he is still saddened at her death. With this epic batting innings, he felt an honour to dedicate to it to her.

“I [am] delighted with the innings and my form, but I missed my mother badly and I just want to remember her with this special innings by scoring a double-century,” the former Guyana under-19 player related.

In his debut season at the Toronto and District Cricket Association Premier and Elite Divisions, Chattergoon, played for Vikings Cricket Club and was satisfied with his performances. He still continues to ply his trade at those levels but he is currently wearing the Victoria Park’s colours on this occasion.

“I think the experience of

Kirstan Kallicharan TT’s top sportsman

ORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Cricketer Kirstan

Kallicharan, 15, last Tuesday was voted the top athlete in the Sport and Recreation category (12-17) at the National Youth Awards held at Queen’s Hall in St Ann’s, Port-of-Spain, while cyclist Jovian Gomez topped the 18-29 age group.

Kallicharan, a righthanded batsman, served as captain of the nation-

al under-15 and U-17 teams.

Back in May, Kallicharan recorded an unbeaten 404 for Vishnu Boys in the 35-over Powergen Secondary Schools Cricket League quarter-final U-14 match. He struck 44 fours and 31 sixes in his innings, guiding Vishnu to a massive 548/1 in 35 overs. In reply, Valencia was dismissed for 89 in 24 overs, as Kallicharan who is an effective legspinner, picked up two

wickets for zero runs.

Kallicharan beat out a field of athletes that included cricketers Alysha Gomez, Crystian Thurton and Renaldo Sinanan; volleyballers Maya Roberts and Reann Young; cyclist Ramon Belmontes and Scrabble player Tairah John-Seedial.

Meanwhile, Gomez who rode under the Team Drive Phrase Sport (DPS) banner and earned the President’s Trophy at the 2013 TT

Guyana establishes Sport Shooting Federation

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana Sport Shooting Federation is now duly sanctioned as a sporting federation by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission pursuant to its incorporation under the Laws of Guyana. Since its incorporation and electoral process, the Board has been working to put things in place to facilitate taking sport shooting to a new level in Guyana, a press release from the newly formed body stated.

Members of the Board of Executives elected to serve for the period 2014-2015 are:

President Ms Vidushi Persaud, Vice-President Mr Michael Blake, Secretary Mr Steve Ninvalle, Treasurer Mr Rohandev Persaud, Assistant Secretary and Treasurer Mr Ryan McKinnon, Internal Auditor Dr Bhiro Harry, Committee Member (Practical Shooting) Mr Pravesh Harry, Committee Member (Steel Challenge) Mr RoulBhudu.

On Monday, members of the Board of Executives met Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony at the ministry’s boardroom. Newly elected President, Ms Vidushi Persaud noted that the GSSF has been established with the vision of promoting all types of sport shooting in keeping with all international standards. She stated: “Our focus on competitive shooting will include areas never before focused on so as to place Guyana strongly in the international arena. Areas will include Olympic shotgun, air rifle, and archery together with other regulated

shooting sports. We will also be seeking affiliation to other sporting associations and regulatory bodies both locally and internationally.”

Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer of the GSSF, Mr McKinnon explained that according to the GSSF’s Constitution, the general objects and goals of the federation are to encourage skill in sport shooting by providing instruction and practice in the safe use of firearms and bows amongst members, to establish sport shooting on solid foundations, to promote its growth and safeguard its principles and to regulate its conduct throughout the country. (Guyana Times)

Cycling Federation Yearend Awards ceremony before moving on the capture the Elite Male Cyclist Award went up against nine contenders for the accolade on the night.

They included: Under-19 cricket captain Jeremy Solozano, cricketer David Sookhar, sprinter Zakiya Denoon, diver Allon Williams, as well as sporting promoters Alaina Ganness and Krystle Bascombe. (TT Guardian)

playing cricket in Canada at the highest level is fantastic. I just want to keep performing consistently and help my teams win every game,” the 22-yearold Chattergoon indicated.

Harrienarine is the youngest of four brothers all of whom featured in Guyana’s team at various levels while Sewnarine Chattergoon played for the regional side in both test and oneday international.

The eldest Hemnarine Chattergoon represented West Indies Under-19 team while he featured for Canada on the international scene too.

The other brother Ramnarine went on to play for Combined, Campuses and Colleges team at the West Indies Cricket Board four-day and limited-over tournament.

Jamaica's Danielle Gore wins gold at Equestrian competition in Colombia

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: Danielle Gore perfectly synchronised her riding abilities with the horses on which she competed to create history by becoming the first Jamaican under-12 rider to win a showjumping event in South America.

Gore achieved the feat on Sunday, when she won the gold medal at the annual Guaymaral Gran Derby 2014 FEI Children's Invitational Showjumping competition, which was held in Colombia.

Another Jamaican, Hannah Deleon, who participated in the 14 and under category, barely missed out on a medal as she placed fourth among age-group rivals at the South American event.

Both Jamaican riders were at a slight disadvantage, as they competed on borrowed horses. Their Colombian counterparts, on the other hand, rode their own horses.

The Guaymaral Gran Derby consisted of two qualifying rounds over two days, followed by the finals.

Gore was simply out-

standing as she gave a faultless display.

She finished the three days of showjumping courses with zero faults and the fastest times every day, conquering 22 riders from six different countries and two continents.

She did the rounds on two horses, 'Africa', which was declared horse of the final, and 'Tabasco', which was voted the runner-up, to finish the Final A competition as the FEI 12 and under champion of Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Mexico, Panama, Germany and Jamaica.

Deleon went up against more riders, 29, from the same number of countries in a hotly contested competition. She also competed on two different horses, making it to the final with nine faults on 'Natasha', on whom she did the qualifying rounds, then Kitaro, on whom she committed five faults in the final. Interestingly, the Colombian rider of 'Natasha' won gold in their performance, while Kitaro's Colombian rider earned bronze.

Gleaner)

WICB praises Guyana’s Under-19 double

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: All round praises are in store for Guyana as two weeks after winning their 3-Day title, they were just crowned Regional Under-19 OneDay winners.

President of the West Indies Cricket Board, Dave Cameron is urging every member of the winning team to chase their dreams with lots of effort and passion.

“The dominance of Guyana at this level is encouraging and we are hoping these players will grow into becoming

some of our better players at the senior level,” said Cameron.

The President in

congratulating the team praised winners of individual awards and emphasised the impor-

tance of the tournaments of this kind as they help towards identifying players that may

have the ability to play at the highest levels of the game and help restore the rich legacy of West Indies cricket.

“On behalf of the directors, management and staff of the WICB, congratulations to the Guyana Under-19 team at this wonderful moment of success,” stated Cameron.

“We commend each member of the team for their personal commitment and sacrifice to play their part in this memorable achievement. May this success inspire you and other young players to push

for greater accomplishments in time to come.” Cameron also took the opportunity to thank the Guyana Cricket Board for their sterling work organising the Tournament without major incident.

“There is always an additional responsibility when you are entrusted with the care of young people and the GCB has shown enormous vigilance in ensuring that they were safe, comfortable and were able to focus on the purpose for which they came,” added Cameron (WICB)

Controversial limaCol CPl final…. Tournament rules support Guyana Amazon Warriors’ position – Guyana’s Sport Director

Statement from Mr Neil Kumar - Director of Sport, Guyana

As Director of Sport in Guyana, I wish to comment on the controversial outcome of the second Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final, played between the Guyana Amazon Warriors and the Barbados Tridents on August 16 in St Kitts and Nevis.

It is incumbent upon me to highlight a few sections of the playing conditions, or rules, of the tournament.

I have copied and pasted those sections below, verbatim, which may apply given the circumstances that obtained before, during and after the game, not only for the fans of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, but also for anyone who follows the game of cricket.

12.4 Length of Innings

12.4.1

Uninterrupted Matches.

a) Each team shall bat for 20 overs unless all out earlier.

b) If the team fielding first fails to bowl the required number of overs by the scheduled time for cessation of the first innings, play shall con-

tinue until the required number of overs has been bowled. The length of the interval shall be reduced as per clause 15.1 (minimum 10 minutes) and the second session shall begin at the scheduled time or ten minutes after the end of the first innings (whichever is later). The team batting second shall receive its full quota of 20 overs irrespective of the number of overs it bowled in the scheduled time for the cessation of the first innings.

c) If the team batting first is dismissed in less than 20 overs, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for 20 overs.

d) If the team fielding second fails to bowl 20 overs by the scheduled cessation time, the hours of play shall be extended until the required number of overs has been bowled or a result is achieved.

e) Penalties shall apply for slow over rates (refer to the Code of Conduct).

12.4.2 Delayed or Interrupted Matches

a) Delay or Interruption to the Innings of the team batting first (see Appendix 2) i) When playing time

has been lost the revised number of overs to be bowled in the match shall be based on a rate of 15 overs per hour in the total remaining time available for play.

vi) Penalties shall apply for slow over rates (refer to the Code of Conduct).

b) Delay or Interruption to the innings of the team batting second (see Appendix 3)

i) When playing time has been lost and, as a result, it is not possible for the team batting second to have the opportunity of receiving its allocated, or revised allocation of overs in the playing time available, the number of overs shall be reduced at a rate of 15 overs per hour in respect of the lost playing time.

Should the calculations result in a fraction of an over the fraction shall be ignored.

ii) In addition, should the innings of the team batting first have been completed prior to the scheduled, or re-scheduled time for the commencement of the interval, then any calculation relating to the revision of overs shall not be effective until an amount of time equivalent to that by which the second innings started early has elapsed.

iii) To constitute a match, a minimum of 5 overs have to be bowled to the team batting second subject to a result not being achieved earlier.

iv) The team batting second shall not bat for a

TT earn third spot as Canada win CONCACAF title

EORGETOWN, CAYMAN ISLANDS: Raenah Campbell and Laurelle Theodore both struck braces as Trinidad and Tobago trounced Honduras 5-2 to claim third spot in the CONCACAF Girls' Under-15 Championship in the Cayman Islands on Sunday.

Playing at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex, TT showed a penchant for goals from the outset and were 4-0 up at half-time before holding their nerve in the second half as Honduras fought back.

Captain Lisbeth Bonilla struck twice in the space of nine minutes to spark some nervousness in the Trinidadian camp, but the English-speaking side battled to the end to close out an important win. In the final, Canada were crowned champions of the inaugural tournament when they beat French Caribbean side Haiti, in a nervy penalty shoot-out.

Haiti led on 47 minutes when Nerilia Mondesir got on the scoresheet but Lauren Raimondo came off the bench to put Canada on level terms in the 74th minute. Canada, however, dominated the ensuing penalty shoot-out, converting four of their kicks to Haiti's one.

Meanwhile, TT got off the mark quickly in their third-place play-off, with Campbell getting on to the end of a through ball to beat goalkeeper Alexandra Padilla as early as the fourth minute.

Theodore then added two quick goals to put TT up 3-0. She beat the offside trap in the 16th minute to get her first and then grabbed another four minutes later, tapping home a rebound after Shenieka Paul's attempt was blocked.

The game was as good as over in the 34th minute when Kaydeen Jack was on hand to slot home a rebound from a Campbell effort.

greater number of overs than the first team unless the latter completed its innings in less than its allocated overs.

v) A fixed time will be specified for the close of play by applying a rate of 15 overs per hour. The timing and duration of all relative delays, extensions in playing hours and interruptions in play, will be taken into consideration in specifying this time.

vi) If the team fielding second fails to bowl the revised overs by the scheduled or re-scheduled close of play, the hours of play shall be extended until the overs have been bowled or a result achieved.

vii) Penalties shall apply for slow over rates (refer to the Code of Conduct).

12.5 Extra Time

Where the start of play is delayed or play is suspended for whatever reason, up to one (1) hour of extra time may be added.

As regards slow over rate, the Guyana Amazon Warriors bowled 20 overs in 95 minutes, while the Barbados Tridents bowled 15.5 overs in 93 minutes. This clearly shows that the Tridents deliberately dragged on the game,

while the umpires continued to smile.

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), the Cricket Committee of CPL and the International Cricket Council (ICC) must explain their role in the CPL tournament. Further, the Amazon Warriors Management must diligently pursue their appeal of the decision to award the game to Barbados Tridents to the ICC.

The Caribbean people are expressing total disgust at the outcome. Is the sponsor of the Tridents team guilty of something? Who owns the Tridents? Who owns the CPL?

In view of how the game was conducted, I call on the WICB, the Cricket Committee of CPL and the ICC to reverse the decision taken on the final and that the match be declared null and void, or a no result.

I also feel compelled to attach, as part of this statement, a complete copy of the “Playing Conditions of the Caribbean Premier League 2014” for your own perusal.

I thank all cricket fans for their continued support of the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

Guyana Amazon Warriors dispute outcome of CPL final

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Management of the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team has contested the outcome of the second Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final played between the Amazon Warriors and the Barbados Tridents last Saturday at Warner Park, St. Kitts and Nevis.

This decision was taken following a review of the sequence of events that took place during the game, which started at 16:03h (4:03 p.m.) under overcast conditions.

During the Barbados Tridents innings, there were two rain interruptions–one at the end of 7 overs and the other at 11.2 overs. By the end of the Tridents innings of 20 overs, they had scored 152 runs for 6 wickets.

At the start of the Guyana Amazon

Warriors innings, the Duckworth/Lewis calculation sheet was provided as per norm. During the course of the Amazon Warriors innings, rain interrupted the game at 15.5 overs with the Amazon Warriors score at 107 runs for 4 wickets.

After the rain interruption, the covers were removed, mopping up took place, and the stumps were back in position, with the field and pitch ready for play to resume. This entire process was conducted under the supervision of the Fourth Umpire, who also indicated the restart of the game.

Both Match Umpires then went on the field when the stumps were up and subsequently went back off the field without communicating anything to the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team

on the position of the game. It was clear at that stage that the umpires did not know the new Duckworth/Lewis calculations, which caused a further delay of more than 30 minutes within the stipulated match time.

At this point, an enquiry was made by the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team Manager with regard to the restart of the game. He was told that information will be provided in two minutes.

After approximately 10 minutes, with no information forthcoming, the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team Manager again approached the umpires and was told that the game will restart at 20:40h (8:40 p.m.) with the full quota of overs to be bowled.

At that stage, CPL

even went on to update the fans via social media that the game will continue in full. This update can be viewed on www.facebook.com/ CarnivalT20.

Suddenly, the Match Umpires at this late stage said that they were consulting with the CPL Technical Committee, which is strange in crick-

Ottis Gibson out as West Indies coach

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Ottis Gibson is out as coach of the West Indies Cricket team.

Gibson, whose contract was renewed last year and would have seen him remain in charge until 2016, resigned the position with immediate effect, after discussions with members of the West Indies Cricket Board executive.

His departure came on the eve of the West Indies' two-Test series against Bangladesh that began Wednesday with a One Day International in St. Georges, Grenada.

In a statement Tuesday night, the WICB expressed its gratitude to Gibson for “his unwavering commitment and professionalism during his tenure as coach of the West Indies team.”

Former West Indies batsman and team manager Richie Richardson will be in charge for the Bangladesh series. The remainder of the coaching staff remains unchanged.

Prior to the announcement, media reports earlier this week suggested that Gibson’s tenure was ‘shrouded in uncertainty’ on the eve of the upcoming series.

Under his tenure the West Indies won only nine of 26 Tests and 36 of 90 ODIs. Gibson’s poor winning record that also saw the West Indies lifting the 2012 T20 World Championships title and winning only 22 of 45 internationals, also helped bring into focus his relatively poor record of working in a harmonious environment with his players. (Jamaica Gleaner)

et, since the sole decision makers are the Umpires and the Match Referee.

At this stage, the Barbados Tridents Captain and Coach were called and advised about the restart of the game at 20:40h (8:40 p.m.), and both the Barbados Captain and Coach objected to the decision.

Further consulta-

tions took place between the Umpires, the Match Referee and the CPL Technical Committee.

After a few minutes, the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team was informed by the Match Referee that the match was ended and Barbados were declared winners based on the Duckworth/ Lewis calculations.

Jamaica’s Chris Binnie wins record 5th Caribbean squash title

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaican Squash sensation Chris Binnie claimed his fourth consecutive Caribbean men's title Tuesday night, bringing his overall tally of regional championships to a record-setting five.

The reigning All Jamaica men's champion beat Cameron Stafford of Cayman 11/9, 11/7, 11/8 to retain his hold on the regional crown at the 2014 Caribbean Area Senior Championships, now under way in Bridgetown, Barbados.

The win was sweet relief for Binnie, who spent the first half of 2014 recovering from surgery which kept him out of competition for almost nine months.

The long lay-off, coupled with the tournament's punishing schedule, which had him playing five matches in three days, left room for doubt that the Jamaican could continue his dominance.

Smelling blood, Binnie's regional rivals pounced, forcing him to dig deep to beat a spirited Micah Franklin 11/6, 7/11, 11/3,

5/11, 11/7 in the quarter-finals; and long-time nemesis Richard Chin 11/8, 11/9, 14/12 in the semi-finals.

The focus of the 2014 Caribbean Area Squash Association Championship now switches to the team competition which kicked off Tuesday and finishes on Saturday. (Jamaica Gleaner)