KINGSTON, JAMAICA : Local communications and advertising expert Jean Lowrie-Chin on Tuesday said that the new office complex being constructed by PRODEV, the real estate sister firm to ProComm, is expected to be opened in May next year.
Work on the Ja$280million, three-storey complex, being carried out by Islandwide Construction Limited, is well advanced. The complex, which Lowrie-Chin and her husband and business partner Hubie Chin have named Phoenix Central, is located at 2 Phoenix Avenue in Kingston and will serve as the new home of PROComm.
Ground was broken on the project in May this year. At the time, Lowrie-Chin said that while they had grown to love their current location of over 30 years at
6 Kingsway, they had invested in the Phoenix Avenue property many years ago with the intention of moving their offices there.
"We plan to retain five of the 16 units," Lowrie-Chin said. "As we saw the various residential developments taking place on Kingsway, we decided that the time was right to take this big step, so we hope to develop an apartment complex as soon as we move to our
new location next year." Phoenix Central will accommodate alternative energy solutions. It was designed by architects Plexus Limited, while Berkeley and Spence provided quantity surveying services. An artist's impression of Phoenix Central, the new home of Jean Lowrie-Chin and Hubie Chin's PROComm, is scheduled to be opened next May. (Jamaica Observer)
- Jagdeo vs Kissoon libel case
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:
Attorney Sase
Gunraj, who is working in association with Senior Counsel Bernard
De Santos to represent former President of Guyana Bharrat Jagdeo in his Gyd$10 million lawsuit against controversial columnist
Freddie Kissoon, is expected to have the plaintiff’s case reopened after new evidence was accepted in to the defence’s case a few months ago.
Earlier this year, Senior Counsel De
Santos had objected to evidence given by defence’s witness and trade unionist Lincoln Lewis, who was testifying that the former President had financially neglected certain trade unions and the Critchlow Labour College. The Senior Counsel had told the court that there were no particulars of the allegations that his client had practised “ideological racism” during his tenure as President. De Santos had further stated that there were no particulars of general assertions which give the defence the right to lead specific evidence, adding that if they proceeded to do so, then the evidence should be inadmissible.
In response, Kissoon’s Attorney, Nigel Hughes, had stated that the defence case is one of a plea of justification; as such, witnesses were being called to testify on areas of public and social services where “ideological racism” was practised. The Senior Counsel had then pointed out that the defence did not have the right to produce witnesses but to prove that the justifications rely on particulars and not assertions.
Following arguments on the matter, presiding judge Justice Brassington Reynolds allowed the evidence to be included in the defence’s case; as such, the plaintiff’s attorneys indicated that they will be appealing the judge’s decision. This was in March and Justice Reynolds had stayed the trial to allow
the appeal to be heard and completed before he continued with the case.
Review
However, some nine months later, no appeal has been filed. The plaintiff was also supposed to file a statement of reply to the amended defence; however, on Tuesday, Attorney Gunraj explained to the court that he was unable to confer with the Senior Counsel who was currently engaged in the criminal assizes on the statement of reply and the way forward.
He further mentioned that with the fresh evidence added to the defence’s case, the plaintiff would want to revisit his case and amend it. Attorney Hughes, in rebuttal, pointed out that from the time the first witness was called, the defence’s case was clear and has been justified. He reminded the court that the plaintiff was
given time to file an appeal and never did.
Nevertheless, Gunraj requested that the court granted some time, to consult with De Santos and file the reply. Justice Reynolds granted him two weeks’ leave and informed the court that on that date, he will have to satisfy the court by ensuring the statement of reply is filed.
Justice Reynolds stated on that day, the plaintiff’s attorney should also confirm their intentions that is, whether they will re-open their case and provide the grounds on which they should be allowed to do so.
Former President Jagdeo had sued Kissoon, along with Kaieteur News publisher Glenn Lall and Editorin-Chief Adam Harris, for Gyd$10 million for claiming in one of his columns that Jagdeo was an “ideological racist”. (Guyana Times)
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Maybe it’s nostalgia, but the old male politicians are certainly missed. In the days before the internet, politicians were forced to connect with their constituents in meaningful ways. They were forced to construct images that were larger than life itself. They were defined by their pronouncements, which were repeated in homes and public spaces with reverence. Even when they were unwittingly funny, the stories were told with reverence.
Today, we are stuck with leaders of all kinds, leaving society, particularly our male folk, to wonder if they understand what it means to be a male political leader. Leadership brings its own set of challenges. The challenge of youth is that they are always seeking leaders. The root of Guyana’s problem is the people who have become leaders are often involved in some of the wrong activities.
While they preach peace and harmony, their very actions cut across the values they project to society. Only recently we were confronted by the issue where two of the top leaders of the Alliance For Change (AFC) refused to mount the platform of A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) because they did not want to be seen to be identified with a party that draws its electoral support largely from Afro Guyanese.
The excuse given by one of the leaders that he had vowed not to stand on the platform of his opponents cannot hold water and many Guyanese, particularly our youths, saw the naked racebaiting that was played out by the AFC.
What is more like the truth is that the AFC was afraid to be identified with Afro Guyanese because it sees it itself as an “Indian party” and is fearful of any possible repercussions from voters of that ethnic make-up. When asked why he did not attend the APNU rally, Leader of the AFC Khemraj Ramjattan said he did not want to attend since that could have provided an opportunity for “PPP/C propagandists” to attack him and link him to the APNU.
What could have been a watershed occasion to see East Indians and African leaders united in their “common cause” turned out to be a matter of race for the AFC because instead of Ramjattan and AFC Vice Chairman Moses Nagamootoo attending the rally, they chose to send two of their leaders of African descent. This sort of message from our leaders is very dangerous at a time when all and sundry are seeking racial healing in society.
One religious writer said that: “The greatest want of the world is the want of men – men who will not be bought or sold; men who in their inmost souls are true and honest; men who sin by its right name; men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole; men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.”
It is leaders with these attributes that Guyana seeks today.
History has taught us many lessons of leaders whose missteps caused nations to suffer. Those who occupy responsible positions as guardians of the people are false to their trust if they do not faithfully search out and stand up for what is right. For the AFC leaders to cover under the cloak of protecting one’s votes at the expense of national unity is a misdeed deserving of the strongest condemnation.
And for those who it is considered uncharitable to rebuke such behaviour should also be condemned. In the existing state of our country, there is crying need of earnest, honest leaders –men who will not shun to stand up for what is right.
Those upon whom the burden of carrying this nation rest are not to hold their peace and cover with a cloak of false charity, but must be willing to separate themselves from entrenched hatred and racism that have for years dogged this country.
christmas is fast approaching and businesses across the country have been doing their bit to get Guyanese into the festive mood. one such entity is Dsl’s ruimveldt cash and carry outlet, whose massive gifts perched on a mini-stage are a joy to behold
For all the very real risks of consolidation taking place in the Caribbean telecommunication sector, equal focus should be placed on the opportunities for the region to accelerate its development agenda.
When Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) announced its intention to acquire Columbus International (Columbus) in a deal estimated at US$3 billion, an alarm sounded across the region, with good cause. The deal threatens to return several territories to a duopoly or monopoly market for critical telecommunications services.
But market consolidation of itself is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, consolidation can potentially provide several benefits to business and consumers, such as lower operating costs and greater service options. However, the real danger and the source of much of the fear within the region comes when there is consolidation without effective oversight.
The fear is justified. There are several recent examples of dubious behavior by providers. From national regulators being notified by service providers after the fact, or simply kept in the dark regarding acquisitions and joint ventures; to blocking of VoIP services, pricing hikes or misleading service branding, the need for greater consumer protection and more comprehensive sector oversight is evident.
Opportunity riding the dangerous wind
A real opportunity now exists to define an evolved, more relevant model for regional regulatory oversight that is based on closer collaboration and better-informed decision making amongst governments, regulators and service providers. Such a platform can accelerate movement toward the desired Caribbean single ICT space, and safeguard the interest of consumers and national economies.
Seizing the opportunity presented by current developments will require the region to go be-
yond traditional models for regulation, which have historically been limited to regulating basic access to networks and services, protecting the interests of consumers and advancing universal access. It will also require a new demonstration of leadership that transcends narrowly defined national interests.
The competitiveness and investment-attractiveness of Caribbean markets is dependent on reliable, resilient and affordable telecommunications services. Political and regulatory pressure must therefore be applied to ensure that the region as a whole, actually benefits from the consolidation taking place in telecommunications sector.
In the context of global ICT networks and pan Caribbean operators, the region must now articulate a more relevant model of governance and oversight of the sector. Concessions and licenses for participation in the region’s critical telecommunications sector must be contingent on firm commitments to improve service; provide greater transparency and accountability; accelerate infrastructure build-out, particularly for broadband delivery; protect consumers and consumer choice; and support innovation, local content, education and social development.
Barriers to market entry should be sufficiently low to put pressure on incumbent operators to diversify their service offerings and increase the pace of innovation in the areas of product offerings, service quality and pricing. Consumers should also be allowed to switch between providers and services with minimal effort.
Regional governments and regulators should ensure that all services providers are obligated to comply with a common framework for operations in the region.
At a minimum, telecom providers should be obligated to the following, across all CARICOM markets:
1. Removal of regional roaming charges on voice and data
2. Infrastructure sharing
on fair, non-discriminatory and cost based terms
3. Open reporting providing relevant, publicly accessible and verifiable financial, technical and operational details.
4. Preferential treatment for the education sector, in particular, support for the creation of a dedicated Caribbean network for education, research and collaboration.
5. Support Caribbeanbased content including ancillary service providers, skill development, entrepreneurship and technical capacity building.
6. Interconnection agreements standardized at cost.
7. The implementation of fixed and mobile number portability across in all markets.
8. Unlocking of network access devices, such as mobile handsets and mobile hotspots.
9. Support of and participation in Internet Exchange Points in every market of operation.
10. Regulatory oversight of subsea network infrastructure, including licensing of sea bed construction rights.
This list is by no means exhaustive. The recommendations are intended to trigger greater debate and deeper consideration of the opportunities available to craft an environment that is attractive to private sector investment as well as conducive to regional development.
Telecommunications and Internet connectivity are too important to the Caribbean’s economic and social development to leave to chance, or to the uncontested promises of the private sector. The measures proposed have been used successfully in various jurisdictions around the world to regulate the behavior of dominant service providers and to mitigate against the risks inherent in monopoly and duopoly markets.
The collective wisdom of the region can be applied to define both the philosophy and the mechanisms that protect consumers and safeguard national interests. But we must act together and we must act now.
(TT Guardian)
…but ducks Presidential and PM candidates
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:
Social media activist Mark Ross and Dr Versammy Ramayya are among 12 persons who were last Saturday elected to serve on the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Alliance For Change (AFC) at the party’s biennial National Conference.
This was on Tuesday confirmed by AFC Youth Leader Trevor Williams, who was also elected to the NEC after the party elections on Saturday.
The AFC failed to elect a Presidential or Prime Ministerial can-
didate for the upcoming elections, notwithstanding its leader Khemraj Ramjattan had declared months ago that he was backing Moses Nagamootoo for the top post and Nigel Hughes as his deputy.
Williams also confirmed in addition to himself, Ramayya and Ross, the following were appointed: AFC Member of Parliament (MP) Cathy Hughes; Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman; former MP Sarah Punalall; MP Valerie GarridoLowe; Abel Seetaram; Vladmir Glasgow; Michael Carrington;
Neilson McKenzie; and Charrandass Persaud.
It was explained that these persons would be added to the existing contingent of the AFC’s Executive Committee.
When the party’s National Conference concluded, there was no change in its leadership after the incumbent leaders returned unopposed.
This was confirmed by the party’s Vice-Chairman, Moses Nagamootoo who remarked that the conference was a huge success.
However, in a subsequent release to the media, the People’s
Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) said the AFC was using Nagamootoo as an “errand boy” in its campaign to steal PPP/C voters.
According to a release from the Party, “Nagamootoo is highly unpopular within his party and would never be elected as the
Presidential Candidate for the AFC were he to stand for such a high office at a convention of the AFC”.
The release said Nagamootoo and AFC Leader Ramjattan “have conspired against upholding the pathway to elect the Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidate of the AFC at their Biennial Convention and have instead opted for the same pathway they had once openly rejected”. The Party said too that because of the lack of support for Nagamootoo, the AFC’s strategy follows that of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
According to the
PPP/C, this strategy is “to set up Nagamootoo to go for PPP/C votes knowing that Nigel Hughes is more popular within the AFC, but who will not succeed in wooing PPP/C voters. The strategy, therefore, is to set up Nagamootoo as the errand boy to woo PPP/C voters and then later to use him as the delivery boy to deliver whatever paltry votes the AFC may win to APNU with the hope of increasing the joint Opposition’s votes at the upcoming elections.”
Efforts made to obtain a statement from the AFC Leader and Nagamootoo proved futile. (Guyana Times)
CHINA Harbour Engineering Co Ltd (CHEC) is celebrating the Jamaica Institution of Engineers (JIE) 'Project of the Year' award for its work on Section 2 of the Jamaica North-South Highway.
The company was
among a host of engineering companies, engineers and students presented with awards at the annual JIE awards dinner at the Jamaica Pegasus on Saturday, November 29, 2014. Section two of the Jamaica North-South Highway project incorporated the Linstead to Moneague section of
the Highway 2000 project, Mount Rosser and covered approximately 19.35km. The project connects Kingston and Ocho Rios.
Also in winners row at the awards dinner were engineers Noel Whyte (Excellence in Engineering); Chris Hamilton (Outstanding
Council Member 20132014); The Engineering Week Committee, (Best Committee 20132014); and Melissa Townsend of National Water Commission (Best Graduate Member).
The JIE also presented awards to outstanding engineering students of the University of the West Indies (UWI) and University of Technology (UTech). Miles Harris of copped the 'Most Outstanding
Engineering Student' award for UWI St Augustine Campus and Raymour Wilson the award for UWI Mona. Delano Mighty was named the 'Most Outstanding Engineering Student', at UTech's Faculty of Engineering, while Tiffany Givans was chosen the 'Most Outstanding Engineering Student' for UTech's Faculty of Built Environment.
Meanwhile, public relations consultant, Marcia Erskine, was named an "Honorary Engineer' in recognition of her contribution to "raising the profile of the JIE and supporting its activities over 20 years".
Immediate past president of the JIE, Dr Noel Brown, presented the President's Medal to his successor, engineer Ander White, at the event. (Jamaica Observer)
GUYANA: “No country can develop if we have illiteracy around.” That was the message of Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul, as he stressed the importance of education, particularly the Technical Vocational aspect, to nation building at the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) graduation ceremony at the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre, on Friday.
The 2014 graduates of the Single Parents Training Programme in Region Three Gopaul commended graduands, who came from two programmes: the National Training Programme for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE) and the Single Parents Training Programme for the sacrifices made, and noted the emphasis placed on education by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration.
He pointed out that since the Technical Vocational programme commenced in 2005 under then President Bharrat Jagdeo, thousands have been trained, with per-
sons achieving glorious opportunities for progress.
Minister Gopaul noted that the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA) continues to place persons in jobs and ensures that employers find employees.
He emphasised too that most persons trained have been placed in jobs or some form of employment, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.
Pointing to the Information Technology training and the continual advances which are necessary, the Minister urged the graduands to access further training as was necessary. “We are in a dynamic world, and we are in dynamic times, and, therefore, it behoves us to always be ahead,” the Minister stated. He added that all persons who did not access secondary education could fall into the BIT training in order to improve their lives and the country.
He pointed to the programmes established to help keep students in school such as the construction and rehabilitation of schools across
the country, along with the hot meals and school uniform programmes.
Gopaul, in highlighting the success of such programmes, cited the programme established with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to push for children to attend school on the Linden highway. He emphasised the success achieved around the country, with quality education being delivered across the regions. Minister Gopaul also pointed to the “Because We Care” programme, which was ongoing for children in the public schools and which was welcomed around the country. All the programmes, he noted, have achieved the end result of Guyana’s students continuing to top the region in the Caribbean
Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. He also commended parents for encouraging their children to take their education.
Meanwhile, BIT Chief Executive Officer Maria Khelawan pointed out that the programme provides youth with marketable skills and activities. She noted that since its inception, it has provided training for over 10,000 people.
Khelawan noted too that at the Leonora Centre, some 334 trainees graduated in several occupational sectors: 70 persons in engineering: 36 in building construction; 18 in electrical installation; eight in the health services; 24 in information technology and clerical skills and 100 in home economics. There are also 78 per-
sons who graduated under the Single Parents Training programme. She said too that 434 persons countrywide were trained in garment construction, cosmetology and catering.
The BIT CEO pointed out that for the first time BIT provided evening and Saturday classes in collaboration with the Education Ministry. This resulted in 148 persons receiving training in motor vehicle servicing, heavy-duty equipment operations, carpentry, data operations, electrical operations, plumbing, welding and metal work engineering.
BIT Vice Chairman Nowrang Persaud, who also addressed the graduands, said the programme was involved extensively in the field of engineering, in order to
fulfil the demand for the skills which the graduates provide. He urged the graduands to share their skills by giving back to society by volunteering their services for community efforts, as without doing such, their knowledge would become useless.
The programme consists of on-the-job training and exposure to life skills educational classes. The youths who are targeted are between the ages of 15 and 25. Most of them do not have the requisite CSEC qualifications to enter the job market, or may not have completed secondary education Guyana’s BIT programme was hailed by Mexico and Colombia in 2013 as a model for youth training and for reducing unemployment. (Guyana Times)
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:
Thirty-sixyear-old Karen Fisher, of Thomas Street, Georgetown, was placed on Gyd$20,000 on a wounding charge when she appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, on Tuesday morning.
It was alleged that on December 5 at Church
and Thomas Streets, Georgetown, she unlawfully and maliciously wounded Melanie Gittens. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Gittens, 44, of Non Pariel, East Coast Demerara, was also charged and pleaded not guilty to the offence, which alleged that on December 5, she made use of threatening language towards Fisher,
where a breach of the peace was occasioned.
Police Prosecutor Dinero Jones did not object to bail for either of the women. He informed the court that both women share a relationship with the same man.
The two women were ordered to post Gyd$20,000 bail each and are bonded to keep the peace until January 5, 2015. (Guyana Times)
JAMAICA: Clive Chin - son of late VP Records owner Vincent Chin -- has filed a lawsuit against his step-mother, Patricia, over the ownership of songs he wrote.
According to an article posted on the New York Post website, Chin, 60, filed the federal lawsuit in Brooklyn, New York.
Chin is contenting that his late father's Queens-based VP Music Group has been licensing more than 1,100 songs, written by him and recorded by artistes, without permission.
He is seeking US$3 million from his step-
Patricia Chin
mother and three music companies he claims knowingly tried to scam him.
Patricia claims the copyrights to the music were part of the "marital estate" left by her husband.
Clive Chin has
worked with major players in the reggae/dancehall industry including the Wailers, Dennis Brown, Black Uhuru and Lee 'Scratch' Perry.
His first major commercial success was Java, an international hit by Augustus Pablo. He also produced Pablo's debut album, This is Augustos Pablo.
He had further local hits with Dennis Brown's Cheater, and Junior Byles' King of Babylon. Other hits include Carl Malcolm's Miss Wire Waist and Fattie Bum Bum, which, with the help of Jonathan King, became a UK chart hit in 1975, reaching number 8. (Jamaica Observer)
PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD: It is arrant nonsense to claim discrimination and racial profiling over the recent deportation of African nationals, since Guyanese nationals top the list of deportees from TT and only a total of 70 Africans have been deported during the People’s Partnership’s term, says Attorney General Anand Ramlogan.
Speaking in the Senate on Tuesday, Ramlogan lashed out at critics as he used Immigration Division statistics which placed African deportees seventh down the ladder among those from other countries who have been deported from TT. Immigration figures show most deportees were from Guyana. Ramlogan, speaking on legislation to monitor precursor chemicals which could be used to make illicit drugs, noted the African continent had a large heroin and cocaine-trade problem.
He said in the face of rapidly emerging glob-
al terrorist threats by Al Qaeda and Isis put intended chemical weapons legislation into sharp focus. He added: “Recently, we were faced with the issue of illegal immigrants, some of whom have alleged criminal and terrorist links in other parts of the world.
“The Immigration Division and the Ministry of National Security have stepped up their efforts over the last few years to prevent the influx of illegal immigrants and to repatriate those who are found to be residing in TT illegally.” He said one must be careful when “we receive reports from security agencies not to heap scorn on them.” Ramlogan said people called on the police to do their duty to enforce the law and when they did take action, the same people criticised and condemned them for doing so.
He added: “The latest trend is ‘racial profiling’ and ‘religious profiling.’ I don’t know what we expect the police to do or how we expect the police to do their duty.
Cancer patients who showed up for diagnostic tests at Southern Nuclear Medicine were turned back after an early-morning fire at the San Fernando clinic on Tuesday. Director and medical physicist Anthony Archibald said the damage meant the clinic, at Pointe-a-Pierre Road, Vistabella, would be closed until January and its 40-plus patients would be asked to travel to the Arouca clinic.
“It’s high time we stop this hypocritical behaviour in TT and allow law enforcement to do their jobs. “The latest outcry (is) on deportation of our brothers and sisters from the African continent... but it’s arrant nonsense to claim discrimination and profiling.
“From 2010 to now, the number one country concerning deportees from TT is not the African continent, or India, it’s Guyana.” Saying Guyanese were the single largest number of people deported from 2010 to now, he said that figure was 41.8 per cent of deportees. This was followed by Jamaica with 18.5 per cent, the Dominican Republic/ Cuba and Caricom states, Asia, Central and South America.
Ramlogan added that illegal immigrants from the African continent were “way down the list, at seventh place.” He added: “Since 2010 when this Government entered office, the total number of African immigrants deported from TT is 70 people—70 in almost five years. (TT Guardian)
At least four patients were scheduled for appointments on Tuesday. Police are probing whether the fire was deliberately set, as the businessplace was also robbed of a small sum of cash. A report said
that receptionist Joanne Barker arrived at work around 5.30 am and noticed a fire in the reception area. She contacted the Mon Repos Fire Station and San Fernando police, who responded and managed to save part of the building.
The office of Bob Gopee and Associates, chartered accountants, on the upper floor, was spared damage. Speaking outside the building, Archibald said the bone-density scanner, with an estimated value of between US$20,000 and $25,000, was destroyed. The scanner was used to detect indicators of osteoporosis and fracture risk.
He said the staff were yet to check some of the other equipment as there was no power
in the clinic. Meanwhile, Barker continued work in the garage of the building. Archibald explained: “This morning I got a text around 7.30 from my office manager in north, while I was leaving home in Tacarigua, stating that our south office was on fire.
“When I went to the office, then I was informed about what really happened. It seems that the fire started from the reception area, because there had the most damage. “Smoke and fire then spread to other areas.” He said a preliminary estimate said to have the clinic up and running by January might cost between TT$80,000 and TT$100,000. (TT Guardian)
Thirty threeyear-old Dwayne Vaz, businessman and former community development officer, was sworn in this morning as the newest member of the current Parliament.
Vaz was greeted with kisses on both cheeks by Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, after being sworn in by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Michael Peart.
Vaz then proceeded to greet cabinet ministers Phillip Paulwell and Dr Peter Phillips, who were seated on the government benches, and then walked over to the Opposition's front benches to greet
Leader of Opposition Business, Derrick Smith and finance spokesman Audley Shaw, before taking his seat in the government's back row.
Opposition MP Daryl Vaz arrived immediately after and also hugged and greeted the newcomer.
Dwayne Vaz defeated the Jamaica Labour party's (JLP) Faye Reid Jacobs 8720 votes to 6268 to capture the seat previously held by former agriculture minister Roger Clarke. (Jamaica Observer)
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Sunday graduated its second female paratrooper at the headquarters of the 31 Special Forces Squadron at Base Camp Stephenson.
Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips extended hearty congratulations to Lance Corporal (LCPL) Indrani Lyte on her achievement.
LCPL Lyte was among 17 soldiers who successfully completed the Grade Three Special Forces and the Basic Paratrooper’s courses.
LCPL Lyte, who hails from the Finance Department, said that she has always wanted to experience what she saw the paratroopers doing and she purposed that she would gain the necessary training.
“This is a dream come through for me,” she said, adding that “it was my
peers who provided support and encouragement. I encourage any female who wants to become a paratrooper to go for it. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I intend to keep on learning and growing in this field.”
In his welcome and congratulatory remarks, Brigadier Phillips explained that they are now not just soldiers trained in a specialised field, but are now brothers and sisters in the Force’s family of paratroopers.
“This is a Special Unit,” he said, adding that “your training is specialised and is geared toward special missions. I urge you to read on the history of paratrooping the world over. You will find that paratrooping is not only used to deliver men into combat or other operational zones.
It is not only relevant in war time but also in times of peace. Paratrooping is used
TRINIDAD: The Highway Reroute Movement (HRM) claims the Government embarked on a four-year campaign to escalate and prolong the impasse relating to the Debe to Mon Desir segment of the Solomon Hochoy Highway extension to Point Fortin. The allegation is made in a 28-page letter to be delivered to the Office of the Prime Minister on Tuesday by Wilfred Edwards, a supporter of the HRM and industrial relations consultant for the Point Fortin/ Guapo/La Brea Farmers’ Association.
The group also claimed that propaganda was used to vilify and deliberately distort its message. “The HRM considers the Government’s approach predatory, reckless, dishonest, insincere and punitive. Many residents are suffering great emotional, sychological and financial hardship because the Government and State agencies have so far flouted proper, principled and transparent process, such as those outlined in the Armstrong Report,” the letter said.
Reiterating the call for mediation, the letter said the HRM had met with “insincerity, stonewalling, prevarication and procrastination” in their meetings with public officials. Edwards, 58, a farmer, said yesterday he would begin the
walk from the D’Abadie home of leader of HRM Dr Wayne Kublalsingh to the Office of the Prime Minister, t Clair, to deliver the letter. Other people will walk segments of the journey to Port-of-Spain.
He added: “I have gladly accepted these documents to be delivered to the Prime Minister. It is also significant as tomorrow (today) is also the international day against corruption. “This fight against corruption ought to be taken seriously. We must not accept corruption as a way of life.” Edwards said he was also expected to complete the last leg of the walk. He was speaking at a press conference at Kublalsingh’s home yesterday.
An emaciated-looking Kublalsingh yesterday marked 83 days of his second hunger strike in
protest against the Debe to Mon Desir section of the highway. Edwards and HRM member Terrance Boodhai spoke to members of the media from Kublalsingh’s bedside who himself has expressed surprise as his body’s resilience.
One of the letters, which is 67 pages, chronicles the alleged patterns of abuse against the HRM by the Government during 2010 to 2014. The other is a 28-page response by the HRM to Nidco’s (National Infrastructure Development Company Ltd) comments on the Armstrong Report. The HRM accused Nidco, the project manager of the $7 billion highway, of failing to show evidence that the proper social, environmental and economic analyses were conducted.(TT Guardian)
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:
to facilitate relief work when supplies, food, medicines and equipment need to be provided in disaster zones and situations.”
“The Special Forces has an important role and will continue to exist. So too will training in this area. I am pleased to see soldiers from other units other than the Infantry and Special Forces graduating today. This is the future thrust for training of paratroopers in the GDF,” he said.
The Chief-of-Staff, himself, a Braziliantrained paratrooper, was joined by Commander of Base Camp Stephenson Wilbert Lee and Commander of the First Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Fitzroy Warde, both also paratroopers, in welcoming the new paratroopers into the family, and awarding them their new badges and certificates.
(Guyana Times)
Guyanese are likely to go to the polls for General and Regional elections by May next year, according to political analysts.
President Donald Ramotar on Saturday announced that he will be announcing in January the date for elections.
Former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Foreign Trade Minister, Dr Henry Jeffrey said that Ramotar would likely set a date in May for the holding of elections.
He opined that this announcement would likely be made in February. In support of his proposition, Dr Jeffrey said he did not believe that the President would want to interfere with the 2015 Mashramani or Easter celebrations.
According to him, Ramotar in November moved to prorogue the Parliament due to the timing of the NoConfidence Motion
which the Alliance For Change (AFC) had intended to move against his Government. He opined that the passing of the No-Confidence Motion by the joint parliamentary Opposition would have plunged the country into elections mode, possibly disrupting the Christmas celebrations.
Asked whether he endorses the President’s decision to announce his intention to call elections in 2015, Dr Jeffrey said “there is no point in going back to Parliament”.
It is clear that the PPP/C, AFC and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) are unwilling to strike a compromise; hence moving to elections is the next best option.
The President had suspended Parliament on November 10, after the combined Opposition threatened to proceed with a No-Confidence Motion against the ruling Administration at the first post-recess sitting of the National
Assembly. He pointed out that his action was aimed at the perseveration of the life of the 10th Parliament, while giving the parties the opportunity to engage in talks on matters that failed to gain adequate parliamentary consideration. From the onset, the AFC stated its unwillingness to engage in any talks. Nevertheless, President Ramotar wrote Opposition Leader David Granger inviting him to dialogue, however, Granger responded in a brief letter dated December 2, refusing to have any discussions.
“My Administration more than justified its resort to prorogation… During this time, the Guyanese people were exposed to an Opposition that rejected dialogue… I had to conceive that my objectives for prorogation were unlikely to be achieved. It logically followed that other options to prorogation be considered,” the President stated. (Guyana Times)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA: A collection of over 200 postcards, depicting Jamaica’s rich history, is currently on display at an exhibition being hosted by the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, D.C.
The exhibition, titled: ‘Greetings from Jamaica, a Country of History in Postcards’, displays the compiled collection of Jamaican Speech Pathologist, Marva Shand McIntosh, who resides in the United States capital.
It was formally opened on December 3 by Jamaica’s Ambassador to the USA, His Excellency Stephen Vasciannie.
The displays include the first locally produced postcard, titled ‘Jamaica 1877 Paid’, dating back to the year 1877.
That initial production coincided with Jamaica’s admission to the membership of the
International Postal Union (IPU), which facilitated locals with the opportunity to mail postcards overseas, unlike the previous arrangement which restricted them to intraisland postage.
The exhibits also include several series capturing the January 1907 earthquake that rocked Jamaica; as well as the advent the island’s tourism industry during the early 20th century.
Speaking at the exhibition’s opening, Ms. McIntosh said the displays also depict and cover several other themes topics.
These include: the ingenuity of the Jamaican people; rivers and beaches; the military; grand hotels; sugar estates; art; cultural traditions; sports; churches and a synagogue; transportation; gardens and groves; markets; King Street, downtown Kingston; country life; education; health; min-
eral baths; memorials; and agriculture, specifically activities related to banana and sugar cane cultivation.
Ms. McIntosh advised that most of the postcards being exhibited were mailed from Jamaica to Europe and North America.
She said postcards were initially used in Jamaica for business purposes during the early years period they emerged, as well as friendly correspondence during World War II.
She pointed out that postcards leaving the island during the war, between the 1930s and 1940s, were given special markings, which can still be seen on a number of the exhibits currently on display.
Ms. McIntosh said the exhibits also include more recently produced postcards particularly those depicting the work of renowned Jamaican photographer, Ray Chen. (Jis)
ambassador to the United states, His Excellency, stephen
of mission at the Embassy of Jamaica, in Washington,
are given details on the collection of Jamaican postcards on display at an exhibition mounted at the Embassy, by Jamaican speech Pathologist, marva shand mcIntosh, following the engagement’s opening ceremony on December 3. the exhibition titled: “Greetings from Jamaica, a country of History in Postcards”, features over 200 authentic postcards dating back to 1877.
By Royden James
Domestic airline service Jags Aviation on Saturday officially launched its first Christmas package and officials said they have been making great strides since entering the industry.
The airline’s aim is to create cheaper airfares for persons travelling to interior locations for work or persons going to the Kaieteur or Orindiuk falls as well as the Quari in Bartica.
According to one of the Directors of Jags Aviation, Briony Tiwarie, apart from cheap airfares, passengers will also benefit from free meals. She said thus far a number of persons have used the new service and was waiting for the Christmas promotion to be launched to cash in on a once-in-alifetime deal.
She disclosed that a number of persons have also booked their flights for the various locations. When asked about the future of the air service, the Director said that for the New Year there will
be a number of new aircraft operationalised to expand the fleet.
She said they will also be expanding their service to full time in Mahdia and other interior locations where they did not make frequent flights so that miners will be able to move on a more regular basis. Tiwarie also disclosed that they will soon be entering into the tourism market as stated from the beginning to expand Guyana’s economy.
“You will also see substantial investments in the promotion of Guyana as a destination for international and domestic tourism. We want to encourage everyone in the tourism and transportation sectors to work together to quickly bring Guyana’s tourism infrastructure to the place where we are hosting a substantial number of tourists each year,” she stated.
The air service is working hand in hand with Dagron Tours which is responsible for selling individual seats to make sure that all passengers’ needs are met and fares are offered at affordable prices. Jags Aviation
was launched in August by the BK International Group of Companies.
The airline will be providing domestic services to interior locations with a brand new aircraft recently added to its fleet. The Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX, valued some US$3 million, has a seating capacity of 13, excluding the pilot. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and is fully air conditioned.
The Director assured that her company will be continuing its efforts to improve the aviation sector by investing in new aircraft and higher standards of operations and customer care. Some of the services offered by the air service include interior charter flights, cargo flights, passenger flights, sightseeing flights, medical evacuation, aerial surveys, shuttles, and overseas charters.
The airline is currently using the Wings Aviation facility at the Ogle International Airport; however, it is currently engaged in negotiations for land to build a new hangar. (Guyana Times)
Petit Valley resident and customary newspaper letter writer Dallas Kidman died on Tuesday morning, two weeks after he was beaten unconscious by a bandit who stole a small quantity of cash and other valuables from him, police said. According to police, on November 30 Kidman was approached by a 33-year-old Morvant man who began chatting with the retiree at his
Dorchester Walk, Petit Valley, home. During the conversation the man reportedly started to beat the elderly man, then ran into his home and stole small valuables and cash.
Kidman was taken to West Shore Medical where he remained in the Intensive Care Unit until 9 am on Tuesday when he died. The suspect, of Cajuca Road, Morvant, appeared before a Port-of-Spain magistrate on Tuesday charged with attempt-
ed murder and robbery, police said. Police said the charges will be amended following discussions with the office of the Director of Public Prosecution.
In two other unrelated incidents, homicide detectives are investigating the murder of PH driver O’Neil Sampson, 30. Sampson was reportedly driving his white Mitsubishi Lancer along Bagatelle Extension, San Juan, around 9.30 pm on Sunday when he was attacked by two gunmen.
Sampson ran off the road, came out and ran a short distance before collapsing. He was taken to the Eric Williams Medical Complex, Mt Hope, by North Eastern Division Task Force members, but died undergoing treatment.
Police said Sampson, a father of one who recently moved into the area, was killed because he was seen transporting a “certain man” in the area regularly. About four hours after Sampson was killed, a
murderer took the life of Phillip Francis, 35, of Bulls Lane, Valencia. Police said around 1.30 am on Tuesday, Francis was leaving his girlfriend’s Gill Street home when a man called out to him. When he turned around the man shot Francis at least nine times. He died on the spot. The killing of all three men have taken the murder toll to 384 for the year, 15 more than the corresponding period last year. (TT Guardian)
China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the Chinese contractor for the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project Monday said it had signed a US$30 million deal in Trinidad for the construction of the MovieTowne complex on the East Coast of Demerara at Turkeyen.
CHEC TT Ltd on Monday signed a contract in Port of Spain, Trinidad, for the construction of MovieTowne Guyana, a release from the firm said.
CHEC said the US$30 million agreement, between it and Derek Chin, Chairman of MovieTowne
Cineplex, includes the construction of entertainment facilities, restaurants, and commercial space.
The project is expected to be completed in 18 months. CHEC, a Chinese construction and engineering company with of-
fices located in Trinidad, is no stranger to Guyana, as the company has been contracted for the CJIA runway extension project, which is expected to be completed in 2017. In the Caribbean and Latin American Region, CHEC has been awarded sever-
al signature projects including the Port of Balboa & Container Terminal in Panama 2002; the Manzanillo Container Terminal in Mexico 2011, and most recently, in 2014 the North Abaco Port Project in the Bahamas.
CHEC said in the re-
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and other regional education stakeholders have been challenged to further restructure the curricula and tests for students to significantly enhance their ability to thoroughly analyze questions and problems, and come up with practical answers and solutions.
This charge came from former Prime Minister, the Most Hon. P.J. Patterson, as he delivered the keynote address at the recent launch of the publication: ‘A History of the Caribbean Examination Council, 1973-2013”, written by Historian and Professor Emeritus Patrick Bryan, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston.
Speaking on the theme: ‘Regional Relevance: International Credibility’, Mr. Patterson noted that “to promote the type of education that should be undertaken for contem-
Former Prime minister, the most Hon. P.J. Patterson (2nd right), and education minister, Hon. rev. ronald thwaites (2nd left), peruse a copy of the newly published book, ‘a History of the caribbean examination council, 1973-2013’, written by Historian and Professor emeritus, Patrick bryan (right), during the publication’s recent launch at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, new Kingston. also pictured is former caribbean examinations council (cXc) registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Didacus Jules.
porary society, it is suggested that examination questions be designed to determine abilities to understand, and use information in practical situations, to collate facts across disciplines, to find appropriate answers to real life problems, and reinterpret old questions in light of new facts.”
In this regard, he welcomed and endorsed the CXC’s School-Based Assessment (SBA) pro-
gramme, which, he noted, is tailored to attaining these objectives.
“The…School-Based Assessment…affords the flexibility of teachers in the choice of assessment methods, it allows students to be subject to continuous diagnosis, and it also permits credits for class work assignment,” the former Prime Minister argued.
He also urged the CXC to support activities
in the animation sector, among other creative engagements.
“Look at existing courses in order to package them better for the spread of the knowledge-based economy, and thereby contribute to the building of our creative and cultural industries as prime assets of the entire Caribbean. If we put, as we must, the development of our human capital resources at the top of our agenda for national growth and development, then, creativity of knowledge and information has to be at the core of our reality,” he contended.
In welcoming Professor Bryan’s publication, Mr. Patterson described it as a narrative of the “struggle for scholastic emancipation and to refute any notion that we are incapable of creating, in the region, something which is superior to anything which imposed from abroad”, and commended the author on a “brilliant work of scholarship.” (Jis)
PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:
Government on Friday passed the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property (No.2) Bill, 2014, with the Opposition’s support, in the House of Representatives.
The bill was passed shortly after 7 pm with 26 Government MPs voting for the bill while the ten Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) MPs present all abstained.
During the commit-
tee stage, government rejected an amendment by Diego Martin North/ East MP Colm Imbert which would have allowed the President to appoint a tribunal, chaired by a retired judge, to fire the Procurement Regulator.
“The government will fire the regulator, nice,” quipped Imbert after the amendment was rejected.
In concluding the debate earlier in the sitting, Planning Minister Dr Bhoe Tewarie rejected claims by Opposition MPs about questionable
procurement practices in the Invaders Bay project. “Today is not for Invaders Bay,” Tewarie said. Responding to Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley’s earlier contribution, Tewarie said the government duly considered the amendments proposed by the Opposition but “that does not mean we have to take everything you say.”
Insisting the legislation would not result in political interference in public procurement, Tewarie claimed the
PNM adopted the position it did on the bill because it did not want government to pass it before next year’s general election. Praising Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar for driving the issue of public procurement and charging that the Opposition goes crazy every time the government praises her, Tewarie declared, “We are proud of our leader. We know you have three and many more aspiring to the cause.”
The House has been adjourned to a date to be fixed. (TT Newsday)
the construction of roads, bridges, airports and railways. As such, the company has received more than 160 awards for a number of projects including the design and construction of two of the three longest sea crossing bridges in the world: the Hangzhou Bay Bridge (36 kilometres long) and the Shanghai Donghai Bridge (32.5km long], both in China.
lease that it was a full service provider in the large-scale construction business for more than 30 years.
This leading engineering company specialises in the areas of marine engineering, dredging, land reclamation, and in
The company was also presented with the prestigious Jamaica Institute of Engineers Project of the Year award in 2013 and in 2014 for the completion of Westmorland Bridge and the first leg of the North South Highway in Jamaica. (Guyana Times)
HAVANA, CUBA: Heads of state and government of the member nations of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), together with officials from regional organizations, began arriving on Saturday in Havana to participate in Monday’s fifth CARICOM-Cuba summit.
According to the program released to the press by the Cuban foreign ministry, starting at noon the presidents or prime ministers of Suriname, Grenada, Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda were due to arrive on separate flights at José Martí International Airport in Havana.
The arrival on Saturday of the heads of delegations from Barbados, Jamaica and St Vincent and the Grenadines was also expected, along with the heads of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), CARICOM and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The CARICOM-Cuba mechanism was founded in December 2002, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the date when Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago decided, in a brave gesture in 1972, to establish relationships with the largest Caribbean nation in an open challenge to the embargo that the U.S. had imposed on the island. From that moment, every three years the summits of heads of state and government meet, with a clear integration objective, on the basis of equality, respect and understanding, where Cuba and its Caribbean neighbours review what has been achieved in collaboration and commerce. (Caribbean News)
Guyana Times
Journalist Tajeram Mohabir copped the first prize in the Best News Story Category of the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO)
Excellence in Health Journalism competition when the awards were presented Saturday evening.
Mohabir, who is also a Sub-Editor at the publication, was placed second in the Best Feature Story Category; the first place was secured by Stabroek News reporter Jeanna Pearson.
The winning piece from Mohabir titled “Ebola monitoring in Berbice weak” shed light on the
country’s porous borders amid heightened calls for greater local attention to be paid to the epidemic following the outbreak in West Africa.
The news feature, which earned him second place and US$500 headlined “Some 15,000 unaware they have diabetes” spoke to issues of unhealthy eating and lack of exercise and how they contribute to diabetes.
High level of understanding
From the judges’ report, Mohabir exhibited a high level of understanding of the issues he wrote about and great depth and skill in the presentation of information.
In brief remarks that were well received by a sizable gathering
of Health Ministry officials; representatives of PAHO and Caricom; and members of the diplomatic community, at the Savannah Suite, Pegasus Hotel, Mohabir thanked Guyana Times Publisher, Dr Bobby
Ramroop and his Editor, Nigel Williams for their support and encouragement in writing on issues of human interest and development.
He also praised PAHO for giving the media an opportunity to
be recognised for their work, in raising awareness of health issues and providing solutions to them.
Both Mohabir and Pearson have been awarded a one-week trip to PAHO/WHO headquarters in Washington DC, USA. The trip will happen sometime next year.
The other winners of the prestigious awards included Desilon Daniels from Stabroek News and Sharmin Granger from the Kaieteur News.
PAHO Resident Representative in Guyana William AduKrow said the Media Awards for Excellence in Health Journalism started in Guyana in early 2000 and petered out, but was resuscitat-
ed through the efforts of himself and Alliance For Change (AFC) Member of Parliament Cathy Hughes, among several others.
Previous winners include Ruel Johnson, Oluatoyin Alleyne of Stabroek News and Shirley Thomas of the Guyana Chronicle.
Given the poor quality of work submitted for radio and television, no significant awards were made to applicants in these categories.
But Handel Duncan of HGP Nightly News and Merundoi were recognised for their work in health journalism.
The winning articles which cover areas ranging from Ebola to suicide will be posted on PAHO’s website. (Guyana Times)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The All American Institute of Medical Sciences (AAIMS), in Black River, St. Elizabeth, staged its inaugural graduation exercise on December 4, in which 19 Pre-Medical and 34 Pre-Clinical students graduated.
The AAIMS, which is Jamaica’s first off-shore private medical school, opened in 2011 with an enrolment of six students.
This was made possible after GovernorGeneral, His Excellency
the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, signed the Charter giving it legal authority to grant degrees in the medical science field.
Chairman of the Board at AAIMS, Educator, Dr. Simon Clarke, says from the onset, the Management of the school established world class standards and the achievements so far have been very impressive, especially given the fact that it is Jamaica’s first ever offshore medical school.
“The AAIMS is seeking to develop the standard of medical care in
the Caribbean region. We offer not only medical care, but dental and veterinary medicines and other professional health education programmes as well. The AAIMS continues to work closely with the University Council of Jamaica (UCJ), in developing and maintaining the highest possible standards,” he notes.
He says that members of the Black River community have owned and supported the AAIMS, which has been guided by the Academic Dean, Dr. Sheila Campbell Forrester.
Meanwhile, the Governor-General has expressed delight at the achievements of the AAIMS.
The GovernorGeneral said members of the Board at the AAIMS have demonstrated that they are committed to serving the institution in order for it to remain true to its mission, vision and especially its mantra of “medical education par excellence.”
In the meantime, Dr. Campbell Forrester said
Shareholders of Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) on Saturday voted overwhelmingly in favour of the merger with Columbus International Inc, operator of the consumer brand, Flow. In a statement, CWC said following the announcement of its proposed US$3 billion acquisition of Columbus on November
6, shareholders attended a general meeting in London yesterday to vote on the merger and demonstrated their support by voting almost nine in ten shareholders in favour of the deal.
Finance Minister Larry Howai has met with the management of State-owned Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) and its line minister, Public Utilities Minister
Nizam Baksh on the possible implications of the merger on TSTT. CWC holds 49 percent shareholding in TSTT.
Howai has stressed that government, which holds the remaining 51 percent in TSTT, will ensure the interests of taxpayers are protected with respect to this matter. Howai has also said the issue of any sale of CWC’s shareholding in TSTT would be a matter for Cabinet to decide on. (TT Express)
there is much to celebrate and rejoice as the institution graduates its first batch of students, adding that the AAIMS has been carving out its own historical space in Jamaica as an institution which delivers high quality training in the medical field.
Dr. Campbell Forrester cited the vision
that went into the establishment of the AAIMS in the historic town of St. Elizabeth – the first town to have received electricity and running water in Jamaica – and now the first to host the island’s first off-shore private medical school.
The student population at the AAIMS now stands at 127, with stu-
dents from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, The Bahamas, Kenya, Barbados, Bermuda, the United States, Canada and India.
There is almost a 50:50 ratio in the distribution of students between the PreMedical and Medical Programmes. (Jis)
People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Aubrey Norton said he does not support the move by the Alliance For Change (AFC) to form any deal with the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in establishing a broad national alliance for the upcoming elections.
AFC re-elected leader Khemraj Ramjattan at the party’s Biennial Convention on Saturday morning had told supporters that the AFC was ready to enter into negotiations to lead a pro-democracy alliance
with “progressive forces” including the worker unions and political forces including disenfranchised members of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) and APNU.
But at a forum Sunday, during discussions on the way forward for Guyana, particularly as it relates to the prorogation of Parliament, Norton said the two main political parties must rid the country of the PPP/C administration.
“The issue at hand is beating the PPP and getting rid of the PPP and the best approach to beating the PPP in my
opinion, the APNU has to continue to do its work in its constituency and the AFC has to continue doing its work with the aim of garnering more votes that were traditional-
ly PPP,” Norton told the small forum.
He added: “One will see that if (Nigel Hughes) becomes the Presidential Candidate of the AFC, he is more likely to draw the African Guyanese constituency and that will be negative for the APNU, and in my opinion that is how you stand your best chance,” Norton told the gathering. The announcement by the AFC on Saturday came weeks after the smaller political Opposition body had shrugged off calls for it to join forces with APNU.
APNU’s Leader retired Brigadier David Granger had been con-
tinuously proposing the idea of the parties coming together for a preelection alliance to contest the General and Regional Elections. However, the AFC Leader has been ignoring such calls, pointing out that his party would stand a better chance being successful outside of a coalition with APNU.
Ramjattan had also said that joining forces with APNU would severely impact the AFC’s constituency, especially supporters who are dissatisfied with both the PPP/C and PNCR/ APNU.
The party had already
raised concerns over the validity of reports coming out of Berbice; a known stronghold of the PPP/C, that it was losing ground there. Reports were that AFC supporters, particularly those who had crossed over from the PPP/C to the AFC at the last General Elections, were outraged at news that the AFC was planning to join APNU, a component of the PNC, which they believe continues to support the dictatorial and hardliner economic and social policies of the Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham regime. (Guyana Times)
The inaugural Caribbean Blog Awards (CBA) honoured the best among cyberspace and social media's #ArticulateMinority last Friday evening at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.
The CBA judges selected the winners from shortlisted nominees amassed from the public voting. The event started on a high note with top News and Sport Journalists titles being copped by president of the Press Association of Jamaica Dionne Jackson-Miller of the RJR Group, and the Gleaner's Andre Lowe, respectively.
also received a special award for stellar social media coverage during the Vybz Kartel trial.
Special trophies were presented to Emily Shields (The Crooks of the Matter) and Abka Fitz-Henley for Outstanding Coverage of the Vybz Kartel Trial; Natalia Outar (Natalia Oh!) and Rushaine 'Dutty Berry' Berry (The Dutty Berry Show) for Personal Achievement for Excellence in Blogging; Jessica
Hylton for Jessica in the Kitchen; Chelan Smith for MamaChel; and Christopher Lai for Living the Lai. In observing one of the main tenets of social media, some awardees
opted for selfie sessions instead of acceptance speeches.
The blog awards is the brainchild of Corve DaCosta, who expressed pride in its expansion to include the region. DaCosta lauded Jamaicans' First-World approach to blogging and social media generally. He singled out Jessica in The Kitchen as a top-ofthe-line blog which aspiring bloggers should aim to compete and even surpass.
The CBA segues from the Jamaica Blog Awards which only recognised the talents of Jamaican bloggers locally as well as in the diaspora. DaCosta also pointed out that the special awards were created
to acknowledge bloggers who may not be widely known but are producing extraordinary work.
The evening's entertainment, also from among the #ArticulateMinority, complemented the quality of the awards. Singer Ikaya captivated the audience with a soulful rendition of her latest effort, Bang Bang. Actor Sean Bennett perplexed the audience with an emotional piece about the parent-child connection.
Dub performer Sanj Thompson was well-received with his comedic take on #PSMBookTitles, cheeky made-up literary titles related to Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller.
But vlogger Rushaine
'Dutty Berry' Berry's acceptance speech was the highlight of the event. The comedian shared stories about being unemployed after completing his university degree, being regarded as a science nerd, and 'running up' his parents' electricity bill by posting to YouTube. He wrapped up the speech by encouraging young people to believe in themselves and be relentless at pursuing goals, because hard work pays off.
The CBA was sponsored by Project Grapevine, Voice Box Jamaica, Daily Veritas, NC3 Events, Respect Jamaica, Jamaica Observer, Digicel Jamaica, and Red Stripe. (Jamaica Observer)
trade, industry, investment and communications
Government plans to make 500 acres of space available for business activities in Chaguanas during the course of next year. The announcement was made by Trade, Industry, Investment and Communications Minister Vasant Bharath at the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s 20th Anniversary Christmas Dinner and Award Ceremony last Saturday
at Gaston Court Auditorium, Chaguanas.
Stating that government has plans to open 500 acres of commercial space over the next year to allow the business community space and latitude to expand in Central Trinidad, Bharath observed, “When the going got tough, Chaguanas was never the kind of community to fold under challenge.”
“We almost never hear about job cuts, closures or anything of the sort that shows a weak-
ening resilience,” he added. Bharath said this was reflective of “ a community that shows determination to work towards such a purpose earns the moral privilege to influence other communities and indeed our country.”
Observing there has been a movement from the days when sustainability was the government’s responsibility to the present where it is an imperative, Bharath stated, “It is in this way that communities earn and build their space on the National landscape — by ensuring today’s success has already created a clear passage to the future.”
Bharath advised his audience, “It is now for you to reach your hands out further, if you have not already, to reach your full potential and enhance your space on the economic landscape of our country.” (TT Newsday)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA:
Junior agriculture minister Luther Buchanan has pointed to the need for more youth involvement in agriculture, to ensure the sector's continued growth.
Buchanan underscored this point while addressing the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) Hanover branch's recent open day exhibition, held at the agency's parish office in Lucea.
In voicing concern over the reluctance of more young people to opt for careers in agriculture, against the background of an ageing farming population, Buchanan, said "We recognise that if the... sector is to continue on its growth path and
By Vahnu Manikchand
Massy Guyana
Limited has copped the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) large Business of the Year award last Thursday evening for its good performance in the areas of financial growth, customer satisfaction, internal processes improvements, employee relations, development and corporate citizenship.
GCCI held its annual Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony last Thursday at the Savannah Suite, Pegasus Hotel. Speaking at the ceremony, President of GCCI Lance Hinds pointed out that the Chamber’s role is to support the growth and sustainability of the Private Sector; as such, it is important that those businesses that perform exceptionally well be recognised.
“If all of these businesses are expanding and investing in their
facilities and services, and investors continue to show interest and make inquiries, don’t we have a responsibility as national stakeholders to ensure that this investment in Guyana that is currently in progress is justified and secure? That the faith shown in this economy is rewarded, and the excitement that is being generated inside and outside Guyana continues, and is turned into our national advantage,” Hinds mentioned.
The GCCI President noted there are delegations and large companies that are interested in entering the market and have approached the Chamber to get a complete picture of the local business environment. On this note, he added that the members of GCCI, as well as the private sector, will have to be more prudent and responsible.
With the current political climate and challenge the country is facing, Hinds pointed out that all eyes are on the
Private Sector to see how it progresses during this current state of Guyana’s political gridlock. “Everybody is watching us now to see how we conduct ourselves during this period of some uncertainty… The Chamber believes that this is a time for maturity and level headedness, and not some of the political mechanisms that have characterised our landscape in the most recent past.
According to Hinds, the country is currently at a crossroad of its history and future, adding that the way its national affairs, political and democratic processes are dealt with, will set the tone and direction of the nation for years to come.
Additionally, the small Business Award of the Year went to the New Guyana School; while proprietor Jason Wang of China Trading copped the young Business Executive Award. The Chamber’s Award was presented to both Patrick Sooklall of Impressions and
achieve renewal and continuity, we need to attract and retain (more) youth."
To this end, he said the government has sought to ensure that a component is reserved for youth involvement and facilitation in all major state production initiatives and programmes, such as the Agro-parks.
He also advised that the administration will be engaging financial institutions to provide funding and credit for young people interested in agriculture.
While the junior minister lauded the achievements of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs in recruiting and engaging youth in agriculture, evident by the enrolment of 85,000 members. He, however, stressed that the chal-
lenge remains in determining how best to encourage them to choose a long-term career in agriculture.
Noting that the fortunes of the local and global economies will rely greatly on engagements in entrepreneurship, vocational enterprise, and cottage industries, Buchanan argued that "increasingly, young people will need to utilise their hands to create and nurture small businesses in order to create employment and income generation."
In this regard, he contended that there are numerous opportunities in agriculture for enterprise activities and selfemployment. (Jamaica Observer)
Christopher Ram, while the Media Award went to the Stabroek News.
The Public Service Award of Excellence was presented to the Government’s Analysis Food and Drug Department, while the Corporate Citizenship Award went to Republic Bank Limited. Additionally, the
Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Gordon Lyken of the Lyken’s Funeral Parlour.
Also, the Award for Innovation was given to Sterling Products Limited, while the Long Service Award went to Modern Industries Limited. Camex Restaurant Incorporated took away
the President’s Award while the Past President Award was presented to Clinton Urling. Meanwhile, a posthumous award was presented to the widow of former Private Sector Commission Chairman, Ronald Webster, in recognition of his contribution to the sector. (Guyana Times)
Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Nicole Giles has stated that the potential for renewable energy is growing worldwide, and as such, she urged Guyana to capitalise on the opportunity to diversify its national energy supply to include more renewable energy and less fossil fuel.
Delivering the feature address at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) annual Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony, Dr Giles said the time is now for Guyana to incorporate a larger mix into its energy profile; thus, reducing foreign imports of fossil fuel.
This, she noted will guarantee Guyana’s security while at the same time increasing options and reducing costs for businesses.
She noted that like Guyana, Canada also has immense natural resources with energy accounting for a sizeable and growing share of its gross domestic product.
“Directly and indirectly, Canada’s energy sector accounts for hundreds of thousands of jobs for Canadians in every sector of the economy: skilled trades, manufacturing, clerical jobs, and the financial sector, economic and strategic resources that will likely grow with technological innovation,” she stated.
The Canadian High Commissioner further outlined that the Sustainable Development Technology of Canada (STDC), a notfor-profit organisation that finances and supports the development of clean technologies, aims to de-risk clean technologies in order to attract private sector investments and make way for
opportunities that will ensure commercial success.
According to the High Commissioner, the SDTC has plugged some Cdn$684 million into 269 projects. “These investments support jobs, furthering the research, development and demonstration of innovative clean energy technologies. With global clean technology demand estimated to grow from Cdn$1.1 trillion in 2012 to Cdn$2.5 trillion by 2022, international markets will create enormous potential for Canada’s clean technology industry,” she mentioned.
Dr Giles explained that this type of investment has advanced four new clean energy technologies from concept to commercialisation, while adding that such initiatives provide opportunities for Guyana to move closer towards becoming a knowledge-based econ-
The ruling Dominica Labour Party (DLP) was returned to power in Monday’s general election winning 12 of 16 seats, according to the preliminary results released here.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit is scheduled to address the nation at 9.30 (local time) according to his press attache, Daryl Titre.
The DLP, which won 18 seats in the 2009 general election, is on course to win at least 15 of the 21 seats it contested in Monday’s poll.
The main opposition United Workers \party (UWP) has won four seats so far, with its new leader, Lennox Linton easily defeating Dr Martin
Christmas by a margin of 935 to 299.
Prime Minister Skerrit is on schedule to sweep his Vielle Case seat by a wide margin leading Alex Birmingham by 1,087 to 110 votes with just a few polling stations yet to report.
The DLP lost the Wesley constituency after Ezekiel Bazil failed to win the seat for the
incumbent party on his first attempt. The seat was held by Community Development Minister Gloria Shillingford who had bowed out of active politics.
The DLP also won the La Plaine seat. In the 2009 general election, Education Minister Petter St Jean won the seat by a mere two votes, defeating then UWP leader Ron Green.
The issue went to the courts after Green challenged the results as well as St Jean’s citizenship. The preliminary results show that St Jean tallied 691 votes as against Green’s tally of 346,
In the 2009 general election, the UWP won just three of the 21 seats in the general election.
(Caribbean News)
omy. She underscored that this provides opportunities for Guyana to move closer towards becoming a knowledge-based economy, adding that small and medium size economies can reap early benefits from investing in renewable solutions for power generation that is liable, low cost and provides a base load power solution.
The Canadian High Commissioner revealed
that the SDTC is currently engaging both local and international companies that are working in Guyana’s mining sector in order to offer tailored solutions that use renewable fuel sources such as garbage, biomass, highdensity bio-carbon, solar and renewable diesel.
“These options can offer real growth opportunities for SME’s in Guyana’s manufacturing and extractive sectors which are heavily reliant on affordable, reliable power. The coming years and decades will pose real challenges for energy consumption and security, particularly as we move more and more toward cleaner energy solutions,” Dr Giles said.
She added: “In the same way a firm diversifies its investments, or even markets, firms should also consider diversifying their energy sources to mitigate risks and maximise potential
for growth. All countries, and particularly developing countries such as Guyana that have huge potential to develop renewables, should be encouraged to seek out safe, secure energy sources to help ensure sustainable economic growth.”
Meanwhile, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh acknowledged the presentation of the Canadian High Commissioner on renewable energy, noting that the Amaila Falls Hydro Project will allow the local private sector to reap such benefits.
Over the years, Government has been vehemently pushing the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, pointing out that it will significantly benefit the business sector.
However, the Opposition political parties have squashed the idea, and as such, refused to allocate monies for the project. (Guyana Times)
The screening of nominees for the San Fernando East constituency by the People’s National Movement (PNM) is expected to take place on January 2. If incumbent Patrick Manning wishes to be nominated, he would have to sign nomination papers by December 22.
The San Fernando East constituency would be meeting within the next few days to determine how it would proceed in the face of the conflicting timelines given by Manning and the party’s national executive for the nomination process.
Manning has indicated he is going to see his doctor and would advise the constituency on January 2 whether or not he in-
tends to accept a nomination to be the candidate again. Manning said nominations “can follow during the period January 3 to January 15, 2015” with the screening of nominees by Screening Committee taking place “thereafter”. Manning’s request, which was made in a letter to political leader Keith Rowley, followed the request of the San Fernando East constituency executive for an extension of the original deadline for nominations which was December 1.
However the PNM executive in correspondence sent out on Monday stated it is prepared to extend the deadline for nominations for San Fernando East to December 22. It would mean the constituency would have to submit its lists of nominees
two weeks before Manning makes his decision on whether or not he is offering himself as a candidate. Vice-chairman of the San Fernando East constituency Kennedy Flemming said the correspondence from the general secretary was only received by the constituency on Monday. “The executive has not yet had an opportunity to discuss this (situation). We will make a decision within the next couple of days. We will have to decide on a way forward on consultation with the Member of Parliament,” he said.
Manning is currently in Cuba for a medical evaluation. He suffered a major stroke in January 2011 which left him with mobility and speech challenges. (TT Express)
Minister of National Security Gary Griffith says there is no witch-hunt to target illegal African immigrants as only nine out of 651 Africans have been deported for 2014. He was responding to criticisms that undocumented Africans were being targeted by government and treated like criminals.
Chastising the chairman of the Emancipation Support Committee Khafra Kambon for “making mischievous statements about racial profiling,” Griffith warned that all illegal immigrants had until February to become regularised. “If not, we will take every action to ensure that they are deported to their homeland,” Griffith said He denied Kambon’s statements that 80 per cent of the immigrants currently detained at the Immigration Detention Centre, Arima, were from Africa.
“There are 131 detainees currently housed at the Immigration Detention Centre and only 23 detainees are African nationals. These include 14 from Nigeria, seven from Ghana and
two from Senegal and South Africa respectively, Griffith said. Saying this represents only 17.8 per cent of the total number of detainees, Griffith added: “651 people have been repatriated from TT to the Caribbean, Latin American, European and African countries in 2014 of which only nine were African nationals.
“Investigations have revealed that many illegal immigrants have resorted to entering into sham marriages and marriages of convenience. People pay exorbitant sums of money to their prospective spouse in return for the acquisition of resident status. “These persons frequently exploit the marriage legislation of certain religions which do not require the posting of banns or notices, despite not belonging to the religion.
Contacted on Monday Kambon said it was unfortunate that Africans were denied the opportunity of becoming regularised. He said the longest serving immigrants at the detention centre were Africans. Kambon also said the deported Africans deserved a chance to have their matters reviewed before they were deported.
“We are calling for an evaluation like any decent civilised country does, especially to those who have families,” Kambon said. He added that it was preposterous for TT$2.6 million to be spent to send the Africans home. On Sunday, a Caribbean Airlines chartered flight, costing the State TT$2.6 million, took 11 Ghanians back to Africa after the High Court and Appeal Court threw out legal challenges to block the deportation order in a marathon overnight hearing.
Griffith said the charter flight was justified and his ministry would continue to pay special interest in the organised criminal gangs. A senior immigration officer, who requested anonymity, said the detainees were criminals as they had broken the law.
He said under Section 40 of the Immigration Act, people engaging in or facilitating marriages of convenience were aiding and abetting illegal immigrants to (circumvent) immigration laws were subject to criminal prosecution which might lead to a maximum of three years imprisonment and a fine of TT$50,000. (TT Guardian)
- Canadian based company focused on the exploration and development of gold deposits in Guyana
Guyana
Goldfields Inc (GGI) is pleased to announce that it has received the Outstanding Achievement Award given for notable corporate development success in the past year.
This award was presented at the Mining Journal Awards dinner at the Mines and Money conference held on December 4th in London, UK.
The company received the award for its success in obtaining its project financing requirements in 2014 through the completion of two transactions which resulted in raising total gross proceeds of US$ 226.5 million towards the development and construction of the Aurora Gold Project.
The transactions composed of a US$185 million senior secured project finance facility with a consortium of senior lenders as well as a non-brokered private
placement equity offering in the amount of US $41,523 million (or Cdn$44,400 million).
Scott A Caldwell, President and Chief Executive Officer, states: “We are honoured to be the recipient of this prestigious award which represents the significant achievement of raising funds in a difficult financial environment and reflects the quality of the Aurora asset. We would like to once again thank all parties involved in these transactions and the dedicated team at GGI.”
GGI was advised by Endeavour Financial Limited (Cayman) on the project debt financing.
The Mining Journal Outstanding Achievement Awards
have been established to honour those individuals and organisations who have made a notable contribution to the industry and who stand out from the crowd.
Guyana Goldfields Inc is a Canadian-based company, focused on the exploration and development of gold deposits in Guyana, South America.
GGI is focused on the construction and development of the Aurora Gold Project scheduled for commercial production in mid-2015. The Aurora Gold Project has a total gold resource of 6.54 million ounces in the measured and indicated categories (62.83 million tonnes at 3.24 g/t Au) as well as an additional 1.82 million ounces in the inferred category (16.93 million tonnes at 3.34 g/t Au).
GGI also holds a significant portfolio of attractive exploration properties and holds cash and cash equivalents of US$68 million as of July 31. (Guyana Times)
Weaving Water and A Death in the Family written by Guyanese author Ryhaan Shah have been released into the Guyanese populace.
The two books, published in the United Kingdom by Cutting Edge Press were launched in the presence of a large group of book lovers and well wishers at the Cara Lodge Hotel, Quamina Street, Georgetown on Friday.
Former University of Guyana Lecturer and Historian Pat Dyal said Shah is one of the only writers of her stature who have gotten their books published abroad and well received but has chosen to remain in Guyana despite pressures to travel abroad.
He further explained that Shah’s work is unique to novels done by other Caribbean writers since she is the only Caribbean writer who has used a “complete mythology” – that of Hinduism in its entirety during her writing. Even writers like Derek Walcott, he noted, creolised Greek Mythology.
Shah’s work, though fictional, creates a sense
a display of ryhaan shah’s books during the launching of two of her books. Weaving Water and A Death in The Family
of realism Dyal said, as he explained the context on her two novels. In giving his synopsis on A Death in the Family, Dyal said it is a novel the Guyanese audience can relate to.
The plot of the novel delves into the life of the Muslim Indo-Guyanese in the past 30 years. It follows the life of a young man who inherited his parents’ business and soon developed it into the biggest hardware store in the country.
Weaving Water was published in 2013, and involves the Hindu world view with the motif of the Devi or God in the female form, while
the third novel written by Shah, A death in the Family was published in 2014. Shah studied in the United States and has a degree in journalism. For 20 years, she worked in the UK , US and the Cayman Islands as a journalist.
Her first novel is used in academia in Europe, the Caribbean and the U.S.
Shah also thanked former Member of Parliament Ravi Dev for significant contributions to details in this novel.
She explained that he coaxed her to incorporate the idea of the Gladstone family, a British family who brought Indian Labourers to Guyana
Shah said since her first novel A Silent Life was published in 2005, she thought it was due time for another novel. She felt it is well-justified to have two novels entering the market consecutively after nine years of rest. A silent life was described by local artist Bernadette Persaud as “lyrical”.
a book in Guyana, writers must unfortunately be well “connected” to a local coterie. However, Shah said she faced challenges in acquiring a publisher in the UK.
during the 1900s. This aspect of the novel is expected to capture the English audience.
Persaud received high praises for successfully designing the covers of all three novels and pointed to the challenges faced by local writers. She lauded Shah for being able to acquire a UK publisher.
Persaud said in order to successfully publish
She explained that after sending samples of her work to nine publishers, when she thought it was the end of the rope, her work was finally accepted.
“When we got him, my editor was saying to him that he has to take both books. At this stage I thought ‘we are going to lose the cutlass and the guana’ but he took both. It just takes one publisher to say yes.” (Guyana Times)
JAMAICA: Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen, is inviting Jamaicans to participate in the Christmas ‘Good Deeds’ Competition, as part of efforts to extend the spirit of giving to the less fortunate this Yuletide Season.
The contest encourages Jamaicans to “do something special” for someone in need this Christmas, in three specific categories -- children in State care; the indigent in infirmaries; or senior citizens in homes for the aged.
Public Relations Officer at King’s House, Maxine Francis, told the Jamaican media that the competition targets “ordinary Jamaicans who want to do something good for someone at Christmas.”
She noted that during the festive season people often get together for family time, exchanging gifts and spending time together, but unfortunately, some people have no family or loved ones to visit them.
“Some children in State care have no family to go home to at
Christmas and nobody to visit them, and so this initiative is to encourage persons to give love to people who are less fortunate, to share the love, to be with somebody, to give of yourself and your time this season,” Francis said.
The competition, which is in its first year, is open to families, individuals or groups of individuals who are not formally engaged in service or outreach activities, either through church or service clubs.
It will run from December 15 to 29, with winners being announced on January 5, 2015. There is no age limit for entrants, but persons under the age of 18 must have parental approval.
Entries will only be accepted via King’s
House social media platforms including Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/Governor.General. Jamaica or on Twitter @ Kingshouse_GG.
Entrants are being asked to send a written submission of their Christmas ‘Good Deeds’ project no later than December 29, with a detailed project report along with photographs.
Submissions will be judged on overall quality of the project, including impact, creativity and authenticity.
The person or people with the most outstanding project will win lunch for four at King’s House. Second prize, which includes three prizes (one per County), is lunch for two persons at a restaurant/hotel in Kingston, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.
Third prize – also three prizes (one per County) – is tickets for two persons to a play in Kingston or the Pantomime. There will also be several consolation prizes of gift baskets.
Further details may be had on the King’s House website at: http:// www.kingshouse.gov.jm/. (Jis)
TTMA welcomes Govt review -drop in oil price...
The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) said on Monday it was heartened that the government has agreed to review its expenditures by proposing cuts to ministries’ budgetary allocations in an attempt to respond to the global oil price slippage.
“However, TTMA is
confident that the government will not constrain investment in infrastructure and other projects, which can result in future benefits and enterprise development as opposed to recurrent expenditures with no longterm benefits,” it said in a statement.
The association noted that the recent decrease in the price of oil and recognises that it may be difficult to quantify the
effects of such decrease, “given that this country (Trinidad) is now predominantly a gas-based state”.
The TTMA suggested that the dip in oil prices created an opportunity to concretise the diversification agenda.
The TTMA said it looked forward to being part of the policy framing decisions to grow the non-energy sector of the economy. (TT Express)
Jamaican seafood company, B&D Trawling, says it intends to export 1,000 lbs of live lobster a day following its initial entry into that market in November.
It's the latest expansion at the 30-year-old company which exports other seafood.
"The introduction of our conch skewers a few months ago has reaped tremendous success for us, with the demand growing each day. Requests for live seafood have been mounting, so we decided to explore the possibili- ty of undertaking this,"
TORONTO, CANADA: A former newspaper publisher has pleaded with an Ontario Superior Court judge for mercy, telling the judge that he would like to spend the winter in Barbados before serving an expected house arrest sentence in Kitchener, Ontario.
Bob Verdun, the former publisher of the Elmira Independent newspaper tried to strike a deal with Justice Robert Goldstein at his sentencing hearing for his second contempt of court conviction, his latest in a string of legal troubles, according to the Waterloo Region Record.
“I have been absolutely beaten down by this, and I have learned, learned, learned,” said Verdun in court on Friday. “I accept full responsibility for my actions, and I beg this court for mercy.”
The self-described “public interest crusader,” who was convicted of defaming former Clarica executive Robert Astley in 2011, has falsely accused Astley of cheating taxpayers .
The paper said Verdun now owes Astley, the former chair of Wilfrid Laurier University, more than Cdn$900,000 in damages and costs after a long legal battle.
On Friday, Verdun asked his new sentence be delayed so he can winter in the Caribbean, with his common-law wife, for health reasons.
But Astley's lawyer, Brian Radnoff, strongly objected.
“You've heard this before; and yet, here we are again,” the lawyer said. “He's consistently disobeyed court orders, and shown a significant level of disrespect for this court. A message must be sent.”
Verdun, 64, started his sentencing hearing by dismissing Arnold Zweig as his legal counsel, telling the court “my lawyer has abandoned me.”
He represented himself for the rest of the hearing, and apologized to Justice Goldstein for his “error in judgment” for defying the court again, the Record said.
Verdun said he stayed in Europe, despite the court order, because he had to care for his common-law wife, who has back problems.
“My client has no hope of ever getting any money from Mr. Verdun,” said Radnoff, strongly opposing Verdun's request that any new sentence be delayed so he can return to Barbados, where he and his wife often rent an apartment for the winter.
Verdun was ordered to stay in Ontario and leave his passport with the court office until Justice Goldstein hands down his sentence this week. (Jamaica Observer)
Roderick Francis, chief executive, stated in a press release last week.
The first test shipment of 80 lbs went off in mid-November, with several subsequent shipments totalling over 400 lbs each.
"Our shipments of 400 lbs each have arrived at their destination intact, so our current target is 1,000 lbs per day. Most of the live shipments have gone to the USA, but we are targeting Europe -- France in particular," Francis explained.
The company, which specialises in the production, processing and
export of seafood, has been successfully selling the frozen product to countries like Korea and Vietnam, for decades.
The lobster is transported live from the sea on B&D's fishing vessels that are specially outfitted to carry the product, stated the release.
"They have passed on knowledge of marine biology and sanitary handling procedures to ensure that the product is not only safe for human consumption, but [is] of the highest quality as well," Francis reasoned.
"I am satisfied with the Vet Division and
the ministry, who have moved quickly to facilitate the export process," he added.
B&D also aims to open a retail arm which will sell live lobster.
"The demand is significant as there has been a paradigm shift in the way people view food, and more and more people are moving towards healthy unprocessed foods, in Jamaica and across the world," stated the release.
The company is also looking closely at developing live conch for export for the upcoming conch season. (Jamaica Observer)
TRINIDAD: All Christian
churches in Trinidad will receive an early Christmas present of TT$55 million from the government.
Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar made the announcement at a media appreciation function at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s on Thursday night.
“I want to share with you that..., the Cabinet approved a sum of TT$55 million to be distributed to the churches in Trinidad and Tobago for the benefit of the Christian community and indeed for all those of our land as we celebrate a most generous giving and holy time,” Persad-Bissessar said.
Saying the message of Christmas is one of hope, caring and expectation, Persad-Bissessar said, “Just as Jesus was the agent of change in his time, so too can we foster change in this modern era.”
Persad-Bissessar did not indicate the source from which the TT$55 million allocation would come.
Last month, Finance Minister Larry Howai said all government ministries would be required to cut their expenditure by TT$45 million as a result of falling global oil prices. According to the Draft Estimates of Recurrent Expenditure for 2015, a sum of TT$50 million is allocated for 2015 for religious organisations.
When the TT media contacted National Diversity Minister Rodger Samuel to ask him if any of the TT$55 million that PersadBissessar referred to would be coming from his ministry, Samuel replied, “The Prime Minister will answer those questions.”
Roman Catholic Archbishop Joseph Harris said money being given to Christian churches for Christmas is not new. While he welcomed Persad-Bissessar’s announcement, Harris said he would have liked to see that money being directed towards some work to help young people in the name of Christian churches.
Anglican Bishop Claude Berkeley said this was “welcome news” but he wanted to know what was the breakdown of this money and how will it be distributed among the various churches.
Inter-Religious Organisation
(IRO) president Brother Harrypersad Maharaj said Christian churches who are members of the IRO did receive substantial contributions from the government last year. Agreeing with Harris that this was not new, Maharaj said he could not comment on PersadBissessar’s announcement since he did not hear it.
Episcopus Archbishop Barbara Gray-Burke, of the Council of Elders Spiritual Shouter Baptist faith, said her group used some of the financial
assistance provided by government last year to undertake improvements at their church in Maloney. She said if her group receives an allocation from government this year, it hopes to use it to complete those works. GrayBurke said many churches which received this money used it to upgrade their buildings since many edifices in the country are in a state of disrepair.
Last December, government allocated a sum of TT$10 million to religious bodies for Christmas. That allocation comprised a sum of TT$6 million from the National Diversity Ministry and TT$4 million from the Sports and Cultural Fund under the Office of the Prime Minister.
Monsignor Cuthbert Alexander of the Roman Catholic Church; Berkeley; Gray-Burke; Reverend Dr Adrian Sieunarine of the Presbyterian Church; Robert Soogrim of Miracle Ministries and Reverend Noland Warner of the Pentecostal Assembly were among those present at a closed ceremony at the Office of the Prime Minister last December when cheques were distributed to religious bodies for Christmas. (TT Newsday)
By Vahnu Manikchand
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: After three years of political gridlock, President Donald Ramotar has taken a decision to dissolve the 10th Parliament, paving the way for General and Regional Elections early next year.
He made this announcement on Saturday at a press briefing at State House, noting that after hosting a series of consultations, he decided “we will go to elections”. Ramotar said that there is a possibility that elections will be held before the 2015 budget presentation, expected to be done in April.
The President had suspended Parliament on November 10, after the combined Opposition threatened to proceed with a No-Confidence Motion against the ruling Administration at the first post-recess sitting of the National
Assembly.
The Head of State pointed out that his actions were aimed at the preserving the life of the 10th Parliament, while at the same time giving the parties the opportunity to engage in talks on matters that failed to gain adequate parliamentary consideration.
From the onset, the Alliance For Change (AFC) stated its unwillingness to engage in any talks. Nevertheless, President Ramotar wrote Opposition Leader David Granger inviting him to dialogue. But Granger responded in a brief letter dated December 2, refusing to have any discussions.
“My Administration more than justified its resort to prorogation…
During this time, the Guyanese people were exposed to an Opposition that rejected dialogue… I had to conceive that my objectives for prorogation were unlikely to be
achieved. It logically followed that other options to prorogation be considered,” he stated.
The President explained that he had
KINGSTON,
JAMAICA: The government has launched its first recycling project, which is seeking to recover some 4,690 tonnes of PET material (plastic bottles), and the creation of employment for over 3,000 persons over the next three years.
Minister with responsibility for housing, and member of Parliament for Central St Mary Dr Morais Guy, said the project is an environment protection initiative, playing an integral role in the development of communities, in an environmentally and ecologically sound manner.
convene which includes the debate of the NoConfidence Motion; as such, he resolved to call elections.
The President disclosed that he will be announcing the way forward as it relates to the hosting of elections early next year. He further stated that he has already alerted the international community on the possibility of early elections.
President Ramotar expressed his confidence in the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) once again winning the elections, adding this time it will be with a majority so that this situation of political gridlock will not reoccur.
two options: either return to Parliament or go to elections. He noted that the former choice would allow the business of the House to re-
The President noted that he will be consulting with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to ensure that it is ready for the hosting of General and Regional Elections next year. He stressed that proroguing
Parliament provided the opportunity to improve the enfranchisement of those Guyanese who are yet to be registered even after the completion of the six round of continuous registration by GECOM.
He stated that the Opposition Leader already rejected the proposal so no consideration will be given to it. Nevertheless, the President said that his door is always open for consultations and talks with legitimate stakeholders within society.
In addition, the President said that while he had hoped that Local Government Elections (LGE) would have been hosted before General Elections, current events has “conspired” to knock that option off the table, as such, it will have to be held after. “When we win the next election, I’ll try to make it as early as possible,” he said (Guyana Times)
said.
PET bottles are widely used to store soft drinks, food products, alcoholic beverages, detergents, cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, and edible oils.
Coordinated under the Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP), the project has other partners, among them Wisynco, PepsiJamaica, GraceKennedy Foods and Services, Jamaica Beverages, Lasco Manufacturing, Seprod, and Trade Winds Citrus.
"I applaud you for the interest you have all taken in sustaining our environment, and by extension, our economy. This element of corporate responsibility is one that will auger well for your respective businesses," Guy
"This programme will see the establishment of satellite depots in strategic locations around the island to facilitate collection of PET bottles. These depots will receive the reclaimed bottles, and bulk baled them, so as to increase efficiencies in handling, storage and transportation," the minister said at the launch on December 4, at the Anglican Church, in Port Maria, St Mary. The project is managed by Recycling Partners of Jamaica, a public/private sector group, aiming to build and support national awareness of the need to recycle.
The government, over the next three years, will be pumping Ja$150 million in the initiative, and the bottles, when purchased from collectors assigned to JEEP, will be weighed, baled and shipped overseas for further processing.
The minister told the gathering that through JEEP and Recycling Partners of Jamaica, entrepreneurs are being created.
The next depots to be operated will be in Kingston and St Andrew, and later in Manchester.
Collaborating partners on the St Mary project are the St Mary Parish Council, and the Parish Development Committee. (Jamaica Observer)
The new TT$50 bill, the country’s first polymer banknote, gold in colour, is expected to be released next Saturday, and go into circulation “over the counter” at commercial banks by mid- December. The TT$50 notes, being launched in honour of the Bank’s 50th anniversary, are expected to become available through ATMs by the end of February 2015. Why a new TT$50 bill when the Central Bank issued its first such just over two years ago for the 50th Anniversary of TT’s Independence? Well, that note did not receive widespread public acceptance even though it intended to help relieve the stress on TT$100 and TT$20 notes and make doing
business easier.
“Both denominations carry out dual functions of store of wealth and means of payment. The absence of an effective mid-denomination currency such as the TT$50 banknote requires Central Bank to issue substantially more TT$100 and TT$20 banknotes than it should. As a result, Trinidad and Tobago is ranked number one among central banks for having the highest banknotes per capita in the world,” the Central Bank explains on its website.
The Central Bank consulted with De La Rue of the United Kingdom, the world’s largest commercial banknote printer, as well as other central banks, and arrived at a decision to use polymer. De La Rue has been printing TT’s cur-
rency for the past 50 years, and would print the new polymer TT$50 bills. The Central Bank website stated that the polymer TT$50 notes had “lower vulnerability to soiling and other forms of wear-and-tear” and were expected to last at least twice as long as the conventional cotton notes as a result of less reprinting to replace worn notes. Speaking at the Third Monetary Policy Forum at the Chaguanas Chamber of Commerce on December 1, Central Bank Governor Jwala Rambarran explained that as banker to the Government, the bank collects quarterly taxes paid to the State by energy companies, money that forms most of the country’s “Official Reserves”. (TT Newsday)
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) on Sunday will be commissioning a US$2 million jet fuel farm at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) aimed at encouraging more airlines to land in Guyana and significantly cut the high cost of aviation fuel that has blighted the local industry over the years.
Managing Director of the Guyana Oil Company Badrie Persaud said the Company made the sizeable investment to encourage more airlines to fly the Georgetown route. Fuel supplied at the CJIA is expected to be competitively priced and customers in the airline business can expect to pay less than US$4 per gallon as opposed to the approximate US$6$7 currently being offered by the competition.
“The objective is to add competitiveness and
bring fuel prices down like we did for road fuel,” CJIA Chairman Ramesh Dookhoo said, adding that Rubis is presently the main aviation fuel distributor at the CJIA and added that “in Guyana, we can’t compete as an airport with the current fuel prices being offered by private companies.”
As such, Dookhoo said GUYOIL starting its own aviation fuel fa-
cility at the airport is expected to serve as a price regulator and fuel prices are expected to go down. This will make CJIA a more attractive destination to airlines which will in turn benefit Guyana. Dookhoo said he hopes this move will encourage more airlines to fly to Guyana since fuel constitutes some 35 per cent of the operating cost for airlines. Dookhoo said for 2014, airport of-
ficials have met with approximately 10 airlines and informed them of the plans for fuel supply.
“Also, more recently, airport management and the Aviation Authority have spoken to 12 countries to clear the way for their airlines to come to Guyana.”
Captain Gerry Gouveia, local representative for Dynamic Airways told Guyana Times that one of the
challenges airline operators have always faced is the cost of fuel. He added that GUYOIL being present at CJIA will really make a difference. “Rubis has been there for a long time and they have served the industry well.”
Gouveia said however, it is his belief that because of the increased activities at CJIA, namely Insel Airlines and Copa Airlines, among others, cheaper fuel is much needed. Gouveia, the owner of Roraima Airways, stated that “at the domestic level, over 50 per cent of operating cost is fuel.” He stated that the cost for aviation fuel was determined by the global market, so it fluctuates and there was no way to really subsidise the cost.
Meanwhile, when asked if GUYOIL has intensions of establishing a storage facility at the Ogle International Airport (OIA), Persaud
said his company has no intention of establishing a storage facility at OIA or the anticipated Lethem International Airport. However, Persaud said over the past year, GUYOIL has been providing jet fuel to the Caribbean Aviation Maintenance Service (CAMS), a sister company to Trans Guyana Airways.
CAMS, in turn will be supplying jet fuel to the smaller airlines operating in Guyana. Gouveia said that CAMS has been doing a great job at the airport. The Government of Guyana also plans on investing US$155 million in the expansion of CJIA to support the larger and more modern aircraft entering Guyana. There are also talks of the possibility of CJIA becoming a hub for various airlines travelling through South America because of Guyana’s geographic location. (Guyana Times)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The 47 male residents of St Thomas Infirmary in Morant Bay are now enjoying much improved facilities, following the construction of a new ward by the government at a cost of Ja$31 million.
Financed by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development and the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund, the ward features double occupancy rooms; bathrooms; a doctor's examination room and matron's office; as well as a visiting area.
The facility's opening has significantly improved living conditions and also complements previous renovations undertaken at the institution, which is situated on approximately two acres
Pof land. These include: Construction of a new female ward in 2006/07 at a cost of approximately Ja$10 million, and also a new laundry room.
Local Government and Community Development Minister Noel Arscott, who officially opened the ward on November 21, said its establishment is indicative of the government's priority focus on taking care of the society's elderly.
"This (new) facility is a critical signpost of our journey to provide tangible social protection of the vulnerable people of our country. Indeed, it is one of the most important duties of care we have, and we are charged to ensure that we do our very best to make effective social protection the common experience in our country," he said.
Health Minister
Energy Minister Kevin Ramnarine last Wednesday appealed to employees of Petrotrin to recommit to the stabilisation and growth of the State-owned energy company. He made the comment in the Senate on Monday, even as the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) has signalled its intention to ini-
local Government and community Development minister Noel arscott (second left) is assisted by minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson (third left) in performing the symbolic ribbon-cutting exercise to formally open the newly constructed male ward at St Thomas Infirmary in Morant Bay. Also participating in the formalities (from left) are: morant bay mayor and st thomas Parish council chairman councillor ludlow mathison; chairman of the council’s Poor relief committee, councillor rohan bryan; member of Parliament for Western st thomas James robertson; and custos rotulorum of st thomas marcia bennett.
and Eastern St Thomas Member of Parliament Dr Fenton Ferguson said
the infirmary's expansion "is symbolic of a progressive government, in relation to how we treat our elderly and our infirmed."
Member of Parliament for Western St Thomas, where the infirmary is located, James Robertson, also welcomed the new ward, and commended the input of all stakeholders involved in the development.
Mayor of Morant Bay and Chairman of St Thomas Parish Council, which has direct administrative responsibility for the infirmary, Councillor Ludlow Mathison, contended that the new ward "is more than just a beautiful building."
The opening of the ward formed part of activities marking Local Government and Community Development Month during November, under the theme: 'Service People - Empowering Communities'. (Jamaica Observer)
total debt at TT$14.38b
tiate strike action over the company’s recent statement that it would not be able to increase salaries or pay backpay to workers due to a loss of TT$346 million in fiscal 2014.
Ramnarine added last Wednesday that the company had a total debt of TT$14.38 billion. While not specifically addressing the OWTU’s threat of strike action, the
minister said now was a time for employees to work towards building the company.
Ramnarine said the way forward for the company was to increase its crude oil and gas production through its own efforts as well as from ventures, such as its lease operatorship, farmout, incremental production service contract (IPSC) and joint venture programmes.
“Petrotrin has tremendous potential for increasing its oil production and is actively pursuing multiple initiatives in this regard. It has started to put in place the building blocks to achieve this potential,” he said. He said that development had led to the closure of some 60 refineries worldwide in the last five years, with a further 11 closures currently being
contemplated. Ramnarine said: “In the Caribbean, two refineries have closed in recent years. In Europe 13 refineries have closed in the last five years.” He said the company had cut TT$340 million out of its operating budget for fiscal 2014/2015 but was still expected to incur a loss for the period at current oil prices and refinery margins. (TT Guardian)
Guyanese artist Paloma Bristol captures everyday life through her intricate paintings and sculptures.
In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Bristol said that “even in still life and portraits, I tend to add a bit more warm colours” with much emphasis on light and its changing qualities.
With 80% of her art work being described as “detailed”, Bristol uses colours and forms in a “nonrepresentational way” rarely depicting objects in the “natural world”.
“I love to take a simple composition and make it look extraordinary. I'm still exploring when it comes to my style of work, but for now I can say I love abstract and surrealism more,” disclosed the artist.
Always an avid art lover from a very tender age,
Bristol draws inspiration from “the little things in
life”: whether she begins with a sketch when bored or a great idea while involved in an art project.
“In school, I was always involved in art activities,” she mentioned.
Placed in the art class, Bristol had no art teacher at her secondary school; however, perseverance and determination allowed her to complete her first large scale painting at 15 years old, and later fully enter the art field in 2009.
After receiving formal training at E R Burrowes School of Art, where she studied fine arts for three years with a major in painting and minor in sculpture, Bristol graduated with a diploma in Art Education. She has since conducted and participated in numerous art exhibitions and fashion shows.
Bristol mainly works with canvas and oil; how-
ever, she creates sculptures (using clay and paper) and designs (whether it is Mashramani costumes or designer gear).
“As long as the work is art related I can handle it, be it interior decorating, face painting, landscaping and all other art related projects,” she outlined.
The third place winner of the drawing category for the 2012 Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition, Bristol received accolades for her piece, ‘Men on the other Side’.
Currently, Bristol continues to work on her art while she once again awaits the results of the Guyana Visual
Arts Competition and Exhibition.
“Being in the competition for me is not about winning, but knowing that my work will be viewed by many,” Bristol declared.
The artist aims to pursue a degree in Fine Arts and to further her knowledge of the arts at the Edna Manley's College of Visual and Performing Arts in Jamaica. She also aspires to be a curator at the National Art Gallery at Castellani House or her own art gallery, where she can “support young budding artists and exhibit their work for all to see”. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)
At age 12 most girls would be dealing with the complexities of becoming an adolescent, but Ayana John was too busy writing her first book to even think about her physical and psychological changes. Today, at 18, she has written 13 books and is getting ready to write a 14th.
How did she do it?
“It comes naturally, I guess,” she says, shrugging. “I have actually been writing poems and songs since I was eight. The books my mom would give me to read just did not grasp my interest and I thought to myself, I would write what I want to read.”
The St Barbs, Laventille tenant burned the midnight oil on many an occasion to jot down her thoughts on her computer, much to the annoyance of her mother, who would often be awakened by the sound of John’s fingers striking the keyboard.
She proved this when she excelled at the CXC examinations at St Charles High School in Tunapuna. John is now completing studies in literature, environmental science, biology and Caribbean studies at the Polytechnic Sixth Form Government School. Afterwards, she plans to do a BA in Literature and later study medicine, specialising in cardiology.
John’s books are all fiction, with storylines inspired by situations of everyday life. Her first book, Love and Drama, was set in the teenage world. It’s the story of a teen named Selena trying to chart her own destiny as she defies the wishes of her upper-middle-class parents who want her to become a lawyer. But her heart is set on being an artist.
Along her journey she meets Jason, a rough youth from a completely opposite upbringing. The two tread a rugged road for some time until they find themselves and welcome new lives.
John said the best part of writing for her is the suspense because she never really knows how the story is going to turn out.
“Most people would think that a writer sits down and plans out each chapter. I do not know if it is like that for other writers, but that is not the case for me. I sort of just go with the flow. Sometimes I am amazed at how the story ends.”
Being an author at such a young age has certainly carved out new paths for John. Not only is she a notable figure in her community, with young ones and her peers looking up to her, but she offers motivational talks to teens who like herself, grew up in marginalised communities, but want to strive for excellence.
Asked what advice she would give to young people, John said: “Live life in a positive way and try not to have any regrets. Yeah, and love the Lord.”
Her one published book—The Unmasked Secrets— was launched at the national library on April 28. It was the ultimate birthday present for John, who turned 18 that day. The book is available at the Book Source Ltd, at 49 Tragarete Road, Newtown.
To contact Ayana John send an e-mail to: AJauthor@hotmail.com/hassananisah@yahoo.com. (TT Guardian)
GEORGETOWN,GUYANA: Pointed arches, flying buttresses, vaulted ceilings...the interior of the St. George’s Cathedral is as commanding to the senses as is its exterior, sited at the crossroads of major Georgetown streets.
Described as arguably the tallest wooden building in the world, it serves as a magnificent example of architectural heritage.
In 1807, Anglican church services were being carried out in the Court House room, but became inadequate for the growing congregation.
Two lots of land were donated: the land where St George's School now stands. The Chapel was used for worship from 1810, and by 1 June 1811, it was completed.
However several years later the structure was extended, and plans again began for a new church.
But the new brick structure had to be demolished after it was found to be unsafe due to structural defects, the result of faulty foundations.
A third church was erected in Carmichael Street on the site presently occupied by the Deanery.
However, the need for more space for 1,500 - 1,800 worshippers led to the design of Sir Arthur Blomfield, whose initial design of stone stucco was rejected because of the brick structure experience, and in 1885 he resubmitted the present design constructed with local hardwoods and English oak - though the ideal was to use only local hardwood.
The St. George’s Cathedral was completed and blessed by Bishop Austin 24 August 1892. The present Cathedral was dedicated 8 November 1894.
For more information visit www.stgeorgescathedral. gy (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA:
It is easy to celebrate Christmas with honey. No sugar and no artificial sweeteners are needed, just honey.
Director of Trelawny Premium Apiaries, Remone Carby, shared some tips about honey to make your Christmas baking a bit healthier.
"Honey is sweet - that's a given. It's slightly sweeter than sugar, so you'll need to use less, and because honey is liquid you'll need less fluid," said Carby. "But did you know that honey also adds a special touch to almost any recipe?
Canadian reggae band Magic! is among several performers scheduled for the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival at the Trelawny MultiPurpose Stadium on January 29 -- 31, 2015.
The group shot to prominence with their 2013 debut single Rude. The track topped the American and United Kingdom charts.
"I want everybody to join us on this MAGIC! adventure," said lead singer Nasri Atweh. "It's a stressful time out there, and people are struggling to find hope in balance. This music is meant to put you in a good mood.
We want to bring people together to have a good time. It's not about us. It's about the music. We want you to be a part of that energy and a positive musical
Simmone Edwin is good at sports and music. But when it comes to food, good doesn't even begin to describe her. Each dish she prepares is literally a work of art. The certified hospitality educator and chef lecturer at the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI) has been teaching baking courses at the institute for the past three years and she says it is her life's joy.
“Being able to express myself through food and being able to positively influence my students and showing them all I know is the ultimate satisfaction that I have gotten in this industry,” she tells TT media. “Through my teaching at TTHTI, I've been able to con-
nect to so many talented, young upcoming chefs and through that interaction, it propels me to be better at my job.”
Edwin has been a vocalist and a cuatro player with the parang band Voces Jovenes for the past 15 years. “I have no formal training in music. Everything I do with the band was self taught.” And she certainly knows her way around the basketball court and football field. “I used to play basketball and football in secondary school, but when I started my cooking classes sports had to take a back seat.”
She says her culinary journey began in 2006 when she was encouraged by her sixth form Art teacher to attend the TTHTI open house. “From that day I was hooked. I attended and graduated TTHTI
world."
In addition to Atweh, the group comprises Mark Pellizzer, Ben Spivak and Alex Tanas.
Also booked to ap -
in 2008, and subsequently attended Johnson and Wales University in North Miami in 2008 to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Food Service Management,” –a decision that has taken her around the world and given her much experience in her field. “After I graduated from Johnson and Wales University I returned to a Trinidad in 2010 and began work-
ing in places such as Il Colosseo, More Sushi Ltd, and Buzo, to name a few.”
So what is next on the menu for the former Courts Horizon basketball player? “I hope to one day attain my Master's degree in Education and another in Food Writing, as I move in the direction of becoming a Food Critic.” (TT Newsday)
"...Many people think of honey as a drizzle in desserts or a topping for toast," Carby reasoned. "But now more than ever, honey is being recognised as a versatile ingredient and pantry staple in the kitchen. "All-natural honey gives your recipes unbeatable flavour and unmatched functional benefits. From balancing flavours to providing moisture to baked goods, oneingredient honey performs a slew of tasks, all from one little bottle," Carby said. Honey's versatility
Emulsifier: Honey acts as a binder and thickener for sauces, dressings, marinades, and dips.
Flavour: Honey does not only impart a unique flavour to any dish, but it also balances and enhances the flavour profiles of other ingredients used in a recipe.
Humectant: Honey provides and retains moisture in a variety of dishes and can even extend the shelf life of baked goods. Christmas without sugar? It's not an impossible feat. Many people cannot enjoy sugar, whether by choice or due to dietary restrictions. For these people it may be difficult to find sweet treats that reduce or replace sugar, especially when those goodies are storebought. However, with honey recipes, you can cut down on sugar without sacrificing sweetness this holiday season.(Jamaica Observer)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA:
Call it deliciously wicked irony, but when Debra Edwards launched her FEAR-less clothing campaign, she was anything but.
"Realising that fear was hindering me I came up with this idea months ago, yet as a creature of habit I let nothing more than fear prevent me from executing sooner," Edwards says of her line of statement T-shirts exhibited via a pop-up shop hosted at Base Kingston Saturday last.
"'Would people like it? Would I fail?' were some of the fear-driven questions that consumed me until I decided that I would no longer be a victim of my own fear, and that failure would be better than not trying at all," she adds.
The 30-something Jamaican, now residing in New York where she works in fashion merchandising and had long harboured ideas of starting some sort of fashion
force; toying with many concepts until she found one that stuck. FEARless is a campaign and movement encouraging all to overcome their fears, to stay focused, and to keep moving toward their goals.
"Fear is such a universal experience; it's something all humans everywhere can attest to feeling at some point... it's powerful," Edwards shares. And seemingly, it is this power that she's harnessed, turning it into something positive. Admittedly, she notes that fear, like stress, can be a driver as much as it can be a hindrance, but it's how one channels it that matters.
Edwards started the line, targeting all those 'familiar with fear'; soliciting the support of her extensive networks both locally and internationally, asking them to buy a T-shirt via the webpage www.teespring.com/fearless. With each purchase of a T-shirt she was closer to achieving her goal
-- to sell 50 units in two weeks, or your merchandise will not be printed.
"I am grateful that I managed to surpass the target by 20 per cent and even more so, because support just keeps coming in," she notes. The young fashionista is pleased at her first foray into the marketing and merchandising of her own stock, noting, too, that the T-shirts and tanks are a stylish and utilitarian addition to any wardrobe to be paired with jeans, leggings or any other bottom of your choosing.
There are plans to expand the line — an idea which Edwards is looking forward to.
"I want to continue to take the brand places, to offer new cuts and styles... build out the messages and really change the conversation about fear," she says of her new business venture. "I've faced my fears, now I need all of you to do the same." (Jamaica Observer)
Last Sunday was an evening filled with surprises and Christmas come early for eight-yearold Zion Scipio, lover of trucks, when he was granted his Christmas wish of meeting Junior Sammy and being driven in one of his trucks. This surprise event, which was hosted by Junior Sammy himself, at one of his truck yards in the Claxton Bay area, was more than what Scipio had ever hoped for.
At the event Scipio was gifted with three toy trucks, a Mack and Dump Truck and Excavator, along with a cheque of TT$8,000 towards his school fees (this exact sum will also be gifted ever year). A Machel Montano backpack, lunch bag and book written by Machel was presented by Liz Montano, Machel’s mother, and several Polo jerseys of different colours, all representing
the different colours of the trucks in Jusamco’s fleet, were also given to Scipio. To top it off he was given a Jusamco’s overall (his size) and offered a job at Jusamco’s Group, on completion of his studies. Scipio also got to ride in several of the trucks strategically parked on the compound.
According to reports it all started a couple of weeks ago when the media highlighted the story of Scipio’s profound love for trucks which led to him placing a special Christmas wish to his mother Sancha Samara. He wished that one day he would get to meet Junior Sammy himself, ride in a “big truck” and tour Sammy’s Claxton Bay Truck Yard, especially after seeing Sammy’s trucks in Machel Montano’s Ministry of Road music video. Touched by Scipio’s humbled request, Sammy took matters into his own hands and began planning
a surprise that many would say only comes once in a lifetime.
“His first word was car,” explained his mother, “and since then his fascination about things on wheels grew into trucks. I told him we were going to Chuck E Cheese’s so he had no idea what was in store and upon arrival at Jusamco’s yard, and seeing the many cameras and trucks, my once talkative son became silent…he was in total shock,” she explained.
Scipio even learnt the spelling Sammy’s name by heart with help from his grandfather and googled Sammy’s picture every now and then with excitement. When asked what’s next for her son, Samara explained that she is planning on getting him heavily involved in engineering.
This event was well attended by the Sammy family along with some of Jusamco’s workers and their families. (TT Guardian)
INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica (ICAJ) held its Annual Awards Banquet & Launch of the organisation's 50th Anniversary Celebrations Thursday last at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. There
was too, a presentation of the ICAJ Distinguished Member Award to Eric Crawford FCA, FCCA for his outstanding contribution to the Institute and to the accountancy profession. The
out in congratulatory and festive mood. (Jamaica
KINGSTON, JAMAICA:
Racent Bell is no ordinary woman.
The 44-year-old is an exceptional individual who has been excelling in areas dominated by men. Her work in construction as a tiler and welder throughout Jamaica has been praised by many as being amongst the best in the trade.
Bell, from Shaw Park Heights in Ocho Rios, St Ann, is in high demand not just in St Ann, but all parishes of Jamaica.
She will tell you that she does not look for work because her work speaks for her.
"One job sells the other," the slim, yet strong, hard-working Bell told the Jamaican media as she worked on one of her many projects, tiling a house at Great Pond, St Ann, recently.
Asked about her motivation for going out of the norm and choosing jobs usually done by men, Bell said that it was the building of her own house which led her into the field of construction.
"I started out by thinking of conserving on the construction of my
own house," she said.
"It was costing me a bit too much and it was not being done to my satisfaction," she said.
It was at that point that she decided to be trained in these areas. The then hairdresser made the drastic switch to construction and has been in that field for the last 12 years.
While she has always wanted to excel in whatever area she worked, Bell, who grew up in Colegate, St Ann, admitted that as a child, she never dreamt of becoming a welder or a tiler. However, she said she always loved doing things such as climbing trees. Being young, she always enjoyed several of the chores usually undertaken by males. It was therefore no surprise that she fell in love with construction.
The HEART/Trust NTA graduate said that she was further inspired to go into construction as it was always her desire to be self-employed.
"I wanted to be selfemployed with no boss who I have to answer to, so here I am," she said. Bell now operates
Bell's Welding and Tiling Services in Breadnut Hill, St Ann where she employs three persons along with freelance tilers.
Asked how she felt to be in an area dominated by men, Bell said that it made her feel powerful, yet she remains humble as she works to satisfy those who require her services.
"I feel so mighty to know that I am in a maledominated trade and I'm doing well," she stated, adding that she has never worried that men
would outshine her.
"I don't fret," the vibrant Bell stated. She said her work is praised wherever she goes.
Bell is highly competitive among her male counterparts. She is not intimidated by men, although there are times when some are shaken up by her femininity, she suggested.
"I've never felt challenged by no male," she said. She however admitted that it can be difficult sometimes, especially in voicing her opinion about a job because her opinion
is not always readily accepted because she is a woman.
While women may shy away from areas of construction such as tiling, Bell said that they had nothing to be afraid of.
"There is no job labelled as a man's job so women don't have to feel like it is not in their line. The only line that is yours is collecting your own money," she advised. She said that her only challenge now is finding time to satisfy demand because she is frequently needed.
Mother-of-three Bell, who is married to Trevor, admitted that she has to be skilful in balancing work with family life.
"I manage to balance it. I set myself a schedule and work with it," she revealed.
It is not always easy because there are times when she has to be away from home, sleeping on construction sites.
However, the member of the Ocho Rios Seventh -Day Adventist Church still ensures that her family life is not neglected. The ever busy Bell also finds time to serve in other areas. She sits on the Ocho Rios Street People Committee where she assists with the feeding of street people in Ocho Rios on Sundays. She also plays netball. Her secret to being an outstanding tiler is ensuring that she has the perfect tools for the job, or else she will not accept it.
Among the major projects that she has undertaken, is the refurbishing of the upscale Jamaica Inn Hotel in Ocho Rios, in which she was the main tiler. (Jamaica
GUYANA: Following the success of the event last year, the Rupununi Christmas Fair will be showcasing range of gifts including locally made handicrafts, jewellery, cosmetics, soaps and natural products, as well as a fuller range of deliciously made foods and beverages.
The popularity of the competitions and the useful nature of prizes will see the return of the feature. The astute judges have already accepted the task and are taking their duties very seriously.
This year the participant categories include: Preserved foods, cassava products, meat and fish, snacks, dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables, handicrafts, traditional remedies.
The KMCRG Christmas Fair Committee is looking for sponsorship for awards and prizes that would encourage enterprising activities and motivate participants to continue to develop their skills and to market their products. The committee would be delighted to receive your support for the Christmas Fair and its role in promoting the values and traditions, particularly of Amerindian communities in the Rupununi. The types of awards are as follows: Educational/exchange trips to a centre of excellence in the appropriate field; travel and ac-
commodation expenses to attend workshops at centres of excellence; attendance of workshop or training coursed in the appropriate field; materials to assist with brand or marketing development (product labels, stationary, banners, and so on); specialised packaging (jars, rolls of plastic tubing, plastic containers, and others); specialist tools for handicrafts; and kitchen and catering utensils and equipment.
KMCRG hopes that you will be able to support this festive event by attending the Fair, spreading the news about the event among your friends and colleagues, and
to help its fundraising activity by donations in cash or kind.
For more information, call (592)-772-2228. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)
TRINIDAD: Sprays of colour burst forth from hedges and gardens throughout Trinidad and Tobago for several months of the year. Although a common sight, the beautiful bougainvillea remains a favourite for many people, from the novice gardener to the avid green thumb. Bougainvillea of the Bougainvillea species is a tropical plant that blooms for 11 months of the year.
It is a plant that thrives in places that are hot and relatively dry. Bougainvillea is a sun-lover and it will grow best in a full sun position, and needs at least five hours of full sun every day to thrive.
Flowers are typically pink, purple and red, though varieties are available in colours ranging from white to bright orange. These plants are so versatile
and can be used as groundcover, hedge, trellis, baskets, standard, or cascading pot plants. (TT Newsday)
By Narine Dat Sookram
According to Dr Alex Lickerman, people generally try to kill themselves for a variety of reasons, the number one being when they are depressed. According to him severe depression is always accompanied by a pervasive sense of suffering as well as the belief that escape from it is hopeless.
Whatever they are going through becomes too painful to bear. For example the idea that “Everyone would all be better off without me” becomes their way of thinking. One interesting piece Dr Alex mentions which I think we all need to make a note of is that he says when suicide is affiliated with depression, it is almost always treatable and that we should all seek to recognize its presence in our close friends and loved ones.
I couldn’t agree with him anymore, because often people suffer with it silently, planning it without anyone knowing. Dr Alex suggests that if we suspect someone who might be depressed, we should not allow anything to come in the way that will deny the possibility of asking about it, because a simple a conversation can turn the situation around.
The fact that sometimes people do cry out for help, and don’t know how else to get it is another reason why people turn to suicide. Dr Alex says that they do want to alert those around them that something is seriously wrong, but these people don’t usually want to die and they often don’t believe they will die.
That is why they usually choose methods they don’t think can kill them in order to strike out at someone who has hurt them. I have no doubt that the pain suicide leaves in the lives of those they left behind is long lasting.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1 million people die each year from suicide. I am sure that these can be prevented, but the problem is there are a few misunderstanding around it.
For example some people think that those who talk about suicide won’t really do it, but study shows that almost everyone who commits or even attempts suicide has given some sort of a warning.
Thought not all of us are expert in knowing the warning signs, but is it not wise to ignore statements such as, “everyone will be sorry when I’m dead.” No matter how jokingly it may seem, it should be taking seriously. Sometimes we even think that those who tries to kill him/herself must be crazy, but most suicidal people are not crazy.
For some reason people think that if a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop them. If we all think this way, then we are not doing our part to help present it. We ourselves don’t know any better too so we’ll say things like people who commit suicide were unwilling to seek help.
This is not necessary true, because studies of suicide victims have shown that more than half had wanted medical help in the six months prior to their deaths. It is my hope that everyone reading this article will do their part to reduce the suicide we see every day in our own community.
For questions, comments or feedback, please email them to mcnarine@rogers.com.
"We hope Yusuf Sahab is home for his birthday but even if it takes longer, it's fine as his health is a priority," said Saira Banu.
The thespian was admitted to a suburban hospital on Saturday evening after the X-rays detected bronchospasm, pneumonia patch.
The superstar's wife elaborated, "Antibiotics weren't helping much. He had to be on intravenous therapy and so had to be shifted to the hospital. He is a lot better now. He has recovered but a few doses still need to be administered."
The yesteryear actress added, "You know, this was my biggest fear. Everybody kept asking me about his 92nd birthday plans. I kept saying nazar mat lagao. I was a little scared. Maine
Yusuf sahab ke liye sadka diya... donated money, distributed food to the poor. If he gets discharged by (his birthday), I plan on having a quiet dinner in the house." (TOI)
On Friday, a wannabe Roadies contestant, Amol Spykar, using the twitter handle, BBOY SPYKA, showed his muscle on social media and threw an open challenge to Esha Deol. The actress is one of the new judges of the reality show.
He tweeted on Friday morning that he was coming to the Pune auditions on a skateboard and dared Esha to have a personal conversation with him, else `mundi neeche kar aur nikal ja'. He also threatened to let loose a volley of abuses. The actress refused to let such threats intimidate her. She pointed out that on a public platform like twitter, everyone has the right to say what they feel. Spykar was the only one to cross the line.
When Mirror caught up with Esha after the first round of group discussions with the contestants, she laughed off the matter, "This show draws all kinds--most are excited, some are angry and some act a little crazy. I was actually waiting for this guy to show up on his skateboard but I didn't spot him in the crowd."
Last Sunday, Gauhar Khan was slapped during the finale of a reality show she was hosting, by a man who had an issue with her wardrobe.The actress admitted in an interview to Mirror (December 3) that after the incident she has become mistrustful of crowds and is scared of even genuine fans now.
However, Esha neither has any plans of filing a complaint nor has she asked for her security to be beefed up on the sets. Dismissing the incident as
one of the side effects of being a public figure, she reasoned, "We already have bouncers around.I've been on world tours alone. At a film premiere when a guy tried to act fresh with me, I gave it back to him. This one seems like an attention seeker. If I react to his tweets, it will only encourage him. I'm Dharmendra's daughter, I'm not afraid of anyone."
She's also the daughter of actresspolitician Hema Malini, which puts her in even graver danger. "No one is safe anywhere. But that doesn't mean I'll sit at home," she retorted."If that was the case I wouldn't be on this show."
Esha has been a Roadies fan since the show began a decade ago. She's happy to be in the company of her favourite judge Ranvijay, "who's very balanced", along with the other two judges, Vijender Singh and Karan Kundra (who was also targeted by BBOY SPYKA ). "I'll just be myself and go with the flow. I'm a married woman and have nothing left to prove to anyone. I'm doing this because I wanted to be a part of an adventure show. I remember, in one of my films, I was hung upside down from a 100feet pole and thrown into the sea. The stunt made my dad cry but I enjoyed the thrill," she said.
There's also talk of her reviving the home banner? She acknowledges that she is working on a film she will be producing. Will she be acting in it too? "I don't know anything yet.These things take time," she said. "I should have more clarity next year."(TOI)
Roger Federer's presence in India has once again sparked the topic of the tennis legend and Arbaaz Khan resembling one another. The actor-filmmaker's wife, Malaika Arora Khan says she too spotted the similarity. She adds, "Everybody says he does (resemble Roger) and I think so too."
Ask Arbaaz how Malaika teases him about the similarity and he says, "It was an inside joke. When Roger lost the Wimbledon final this
year, I joked how I had lost a match." He adds, "I know that people think I look like him. I don't
know, probably when I was younger — during 'Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya days'." (TOI)
The Nawab of Pataudi reached Sawai Madhopur on Sunday along with his entire family to celebrate his mother Sharmila Tagore's birthday. Saif, along with
Kareena, Soha and Kunal Kemmu, celebrated Sharmila's 70th birthday in their hotel on Tuesday, but before the celebrations, Saif and Kareena went on a safari in Ranthambore.
On Sunday afternoon, the couple spent a few hours in the tiger reserve, and was lucky enough to sight tigress T19 enjoying her kill with her three cubs in Zone 3. Kareena was excitedly asking many questions about the eight-year-old tigress, known as the shy ruler of the sanctuary. While exploring the reserve, the couple also spotted the ferocious tiger T28 at Karonji Nala on their way back. Saif's younger sister Soha also visited the sanctuary with fiance Kunal on Tuesday morning. (TOI)
We all know how the otherwise strong and beautiful Bipasha Basu is scared of water as she does not know how to swim. While shooting for her upcoming horror love story 'Alone', there was a scene that required her to jet-ski on the backwaters of Kerala, sitting behind her co-star Karan Singh Grover.
Bipasha was really scared as it is, doing this scene, but she reluctantly agreed given the requirement. At a point while shooting, Karan had to make a sharp turn and as he did that, the jet-ski overturned. Bipasha not
only fell off into the water, but obviously as she did not know how to swim, she started sinking. The crew was far off with the camera, but Karan immediately jumped to her rescue and like a macho man and hero, saved his actress from drowning.
A shocked Bipasha was
Veteran actor Deven Verma's chautha was held at the late actor's residence in Kalyaninagar on Friday.
Apart from family members, actors Rani Mukerji and Tanuja were also
brought on another boat and she took a couple of hours to get back to normal.
But given the professional she is, she went back to completing the shoot that day. Well done, Karan. We do hope Bipasha will take swimming lessons now. (TOI)
seen attending the ceremony. Rani was accompanied by her mother-in-law Pamela Chopra. Pamela was also spotted interacting with Tanuja. Also present were Shahi Aga, Tejpal Gandhi and Anshul Goel.(TOI)
Singer Pitbull has invited tour mate Enrique Iglesias to join him in a New Year show.
The 33-year-old, who recently hosted the American Music Awards, will front a new year-end show titled "Pitbull's New Year's Revolution", reports contactmusic.com. The show will be aired live from the Thompson Miami Beach hotel on Dec 31, and the line-up will include Iglesias, Fall Out Boy, The Band Perry, Fifth Harmony and Becky G.(TOI)
Actor Tom Cruise's daughter has started working as a hairdresser . According to a source, Isabella - the adopted daughter of Cruise and his ex-wife Nicole Kidman - has completed a course at the Vidal Sassoon Academy and is now working at their salon. The 21-year-old hairstylist decided to follow a different path to her famous parents by signing up the 30week course, which costs 15,000 pounds.
"Isabella has been getting stuck in at work and doesn't make a fuss about who her parents are. Some of her work mates don't even realize," The Sun newspa-
Kate Hudson and Matthew Bellamy have broken off their engagement after four years of being together.
The 36-year-old Muse frontman's rep told E! Online that though the pair, who had welcomed their son, Bingham Bellamy, in July 2011, has been apart for a while, they are still close friends and committed co-parents.
per quoted the source as saying. She opted to stay with the 52-yearold star, following his divorce from Kidman in 2001 and alongside her father became interested in the Scientology religion.
The source further claimed that since mov-
ing to England, Isabella has really taken to living in the British capital and now enjoys hanging out in new bars and restaurants with her fellow stylists.
"She now has a wider circle of friends and has broadened her horizons," the source added.(TOI)
Despite her illness, singer Taylor Swift performed at the two festivals.
The 24-year-old, who performed at the annual KIIS FM Jingle Ball at the Staples Center here Friday, warned fans ahead of the show that
her voice was not at its best, reports contactmusic.com.
She wrote on her Twitter page: "I'm about to go onstage at... KIISJingleBall in La. Fun fact: I have a wicked case of laryngitis. This should be interesting!"
Despite her illness, Swift flew to London to headline the Capital FM Jingle Bell Ball Sunday (07Dec14), and issued a second warning to her fans, writing, "The voice is feeling hella (really) bad but I'm here and ready to Party/sound like a frog."
The "Shake It Off" hitmaker also thanked fans for their support while onstage, telling them, "I do have a severe case of laryngitis which is making it hard to sing, but you're helping me... I want to thank you for staying and hanging out with me." (TOI)
CThe split comes as a surprise as the couple had happily walked the LACMA Art + Film Gala red carpet together only last month, and the actress, 35, had even revealed her Thanksgiving family plans that included Bellamy.
However, Hudson had also admitted earlier that it wasn't easy to be in a relationship, and it was challenging to make things last for a long time. (TOI)
harlize Theron is reportedly unfazed by the reports on how her boyfriend Sean Penn allegedly cheated on her.
The reports suggest that Penn had checked into the Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood on November 14 with a woman in her 20s, reported the New York Post.
In fact, the woman was Theron, 39, who went to the hotel for some alone time with Penn, away from her two-year-old son Jackson
and her mother Gerda, who was visiting from South Africa.
"She was thrilled with the story. She said, 'Cool. I'm in my 20s'," a close friend of the couple said.
Penn just finished directing Theron in 'The Last Face'. She plays the head of an aid agency in Africa who hooks up with a humanitarian doctor (Javier Bardem) against a backdrop of violent revolution.
The 1983 classic also stars Mel Gibson and Sigourney Weaver.(TOI)
Joe DiMaggio's love letter to Marilyn Monroe has been sold for 78,000 dollars at a recent auction, it has been revealed.
Julien's Auctions announced that one letter from her ex-husband DiMaggio, the Yankee great, sold for more than USD$78,000 dollars, the Independent reported. Another letter from other husband Arthur Miller fetched nearly USD$44,000 the same auction that was held as a part of its Icons and Idols series.
Julien's said that the collection was held by her mentor and acting coach Lee Strasberg, who passed along the collection to a friend. Other items also included black velvet opera coat that was sold for USD$93,760, and one of her pendant necklaces drew that fetched USD$34,375.
Reality TV star KhloeKardashian is still in love with her husband Lamar Odom, despite separating and filing for divorce last December.
According to a source, the 30-year-old, who recently split once again from her on and off boyfriend, rapper French Montana, can't stop thinking about her es-
tranged husband. "Khloe can't stop thinking that she's meant to be with Lamar. She knows Lamar was her soul mate. She can't let him go," the source said.
The "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" star split from the basketball player after four years of marriage following months of rumours he cheated on her and was addicted to cocaine, but they have yet to move forward with their divorce even though she filed court documents in December 2013. "She's really confused. She's always wanted to stick by her wedding vows and give her marriage another shot," the source added. (TOI)
TRINIDAD: For a museum that is only one year old, the track record of its curator’s achievements has topped the mark set by similar bodies in the region.
At a celebration to mark the first anniversary of the Moruga Museum, Archbishop Nicoli Garasoli bestowed two medals, gold and silver, to curator Eric Lewis and the Moruga Museum respectively.
The gold is the Franciscvs Pont. Max 2013 awarded to Lewis for his work in preserving the heritage and cultures of the people in the establishment of the Moruga Museum. Lewis is the second person in Moruga to receive a medal from the Pope.
The medal presented to the Moruga Museum is the Vatican City Secretariat of State official annual Medal of Year II of the pontificate of His Holiness Pope Francis 2014 issue. The medal is struck in silver.
This was awarded to the museum for its Catholic collection. The collection comprises candelabras, relics of saints, the safe from the Moruga RC Church, the statue collection of Jesus and Mary and of various saints, and sacred books and manuscripts from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
This is the first time that a papal representative has visited Moruga. This in itself is historic. Archbishop Garasoli is the papal nuncio for the Caribbean. He is also a lecturer on diversity in the United States of America and has written several books on the subject. He is highly impressed with the cultural diversity of Trinidad and Tobago.
‘‘This country is gifted with diverse cultures. It is wonderful to see such unity in diversity.”
Archbishop Garasoli delightedly commended a parang performance by pupils of the Moruga Secondary School.
During a recent presentation by Lewis at the Museum Association of the Caribbean (MAC) in Jamaica, the Moruga Museum was recognised as having the most diverse collection in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean.
Lewis attributes this to the fact that Moruga has the most history in our country. This is evidenced by the displays at the museum in collections of Amerindian, African, East Indian, Merikin, European and Creole artifacts; a numismatic showcase; World War II items; plantation tools and machinery; historic bottles; a natural science
250 children from special schools and orphanages had an extraordinary time at the Digicel Annual Children’s Christmas party which was held last Sunday at the Digicel IMAX Theatre.
Popular characters, Super Mario and Dora the Explorer greeted the children and their parents at the entrance.
collection; old Moruga street signs; historical domestic items; statues; paintings; sculptures; scripts and photos from the early 1900s and the Catholic presentation.
The ammonite fossil found in Moruga has been dated to be over sixty million years old. This makes it one of the oldest discoveries unearthed in Moruga close to the Jurassic age based on the Jurassic and Geological Chart.
In his address at the celebration, the Minister the Hon Clifton de Coteau made the observation that to visit Moruga is to drive through history.
“When you leave Princes Town and drive along Indian Walk Road past the many villages and sites, there is history all the way to Moruga.”
One member of the audience added that when you reach Moruga and set your eyes on the beautiful wall with sculptures representative of the diverse cultures of Moruga, this is when you know that you are looking at the Moruga Museum.
Lewis reveals that sacrifice and determination got him through this first year. Together with a small team of researchers and members of his St Vincent Ferrer Society, he unearthed history not only in Moruga but at Canari, Princes Town and Guanapo.
The largest stone tool ever found was discovered on one of the archaeological sites at the base of the Chaguaramal Mountain in Guanapo.
Lewis also embarked on an educational drive that involved the community, schools and universities. Dr Sylvia Walker, head of department at Corinth Campus UTT endorses the work of the Moruga Museum.
Responding to the awards and widespread support expressed at this first anniversary celebration, Lewis announced that he is encouraged by this and hopes that corporate sponsors will come on board. He divulged some of his plans for Year II.
“I am focusing on enhancing the display of the present collection and digitalising all items. I am also working towards the introduction of a mobile museum. This will further the objectives of the ongoing education drive”
The Moruga Museum is poised to become one of international repute as Lewis travels to Geneva in 2015 for the Museum Next Conference where he intends to promote Trinidad and Tobago to the fullest. (TT Express)
As proud advocates for inclusion of persons with special needs, Digicel invited children with and without disabilities, to revel in the fun and to meet Santa. Represented at the event were the Angels on Earth Foundation, charity promotions, CKFTO, Down Syndrome Family Network, Just Because Foundation, Goodwill Industries, Raffa House, Rotary Learning Centre, Servol Special School, NCPD, Lady Hochoy South and Penal, Immortelle and New Beginnings.
Excitement filled the air as the children played virtual games on the Activity Mat, the virtual wall, the bouncy castle and the com-
puter screens. Adding to the treat were lots of snacks, drinks and Flavorite ice cream. Then it was on to the popular distribution of gifts from Santa Claus as the children lined up and sat with Santa for their photos. Digicel endorsee, Destra arrived to squeals of excitement and the children gathered around and sang along with her to the popular “Just a Little Bit”, “Call My Name” and her latest song “Ooo La La Lay”. With popcorn in hand, everyone filed in to the Digicel IMAX Theatre to take in the movie Penguins of Madagascar.
Patsy Persad, manager and co-founder of Angels on Earth was all smiles when she said “This is the second year that the children have come to Digicel’s Christmas party. They had a wonderful time last year and are doing so again this year.” (TT Express)
suzanne and michelle's rousseau's caribbean Potluck named as one NPr's best books of 2014
KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Caribbean Potluck, easily one of the most well received Caribbean cookbooks in recent memory, has found new triumph after being named as one of the Best Books of 2014 by staff and critics at NPR. "We are overjoyed," said Suzanne Rousseau. "It such a thrill and honour to have our book, which was truly a labour of love, in the ranks of so many amazing books which we ourselves admire."
This past summer, the Rousseau sisters appeared on the NPR programme All Things Considered. Writing on the inclusion of Caribbean Potluck to the list of Best Books of 2014, NPR producer Theo Balcomb said, "When I'm looking for a way to get
food on the All Things Considered menu, I'm looking for great stories - about meals whipped up with a sister, or recipes that take me far away from my sad desk lunch of lentils - or just stories that teach me something new about what I put in my mouth every day. Caribbean Potluck from Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau satisfies all three." Washington-based NPR is an acclaimed non-profit multimedia organisation and the leading provider of non-commercial news, information and entertainment programme to the American public. Caribbean Potluck is one of only eight international cookbooks on the list of 250 Best Books of 2014 and the only book from the Caribbean.(Jamaica Observer)
There is nothing like the possibility of death to make you know what you want to do in life. And for one emergency medical technician (EMT), the warrior inside her rose up to meet the impossible after being diagnosed with Stage Three breast cancer two years ago. Today that same warrior instinct has kicked into overdrive to help save the lives of other people.
Shairoon WhiteDaniel has been an EMT for more than 12 years and every accident in which she has been called to assist leaves her with renewed appreciation for life.
“You don’t have to go into a war zone to see trauma, it’s right here on our highways and streets every day.”
After a routine checkup in 2012, Shairoon’s doctor found the lump in her lymph nodes and for 16 months she experi-
enced endless visits to oncologists while coming to terms with her own mortality.
“I am now in remission but the experience has taught me to really value life, and not just mine.”
Since being declared cancer-free in March, the 45-year-old says saving lives is now a part of who she is.
An hour or so earlier before the interview,
Shairoon and her colleague were working on a suspected heart attack victim. They got his heart beating again, lifted him into the ambulance and drove him to the hospital for further treatment where staff were primed and ready for his arrival.
Now, both of them were back at Global Medical Response of Trinidad and Tobago’s (GMRTT) on South Quay,
Port of Spain, filing reports and restocking supplies before heading back out to continue their 12hour shift.
“I love this job, it’s the front-line of emergency lifesaving, sometimes there’s a major accident and we arrive before the fire services and we have to be ready to help, so it’s challenging as well as rewarding,” she said.
Adjacent to the dispatch centre, which has a huge map of Trinidad plastered on the wall, is a small but well-laid-out lounge area complete with a television, that’s dusty due to misuse, a refrigerator, a coffee machine and an array of motivational quotes stuck to the walls.
“When we get into work and we log on to the dispatch, it’s action time. That could mean that we may have to go as far as Toco or right down the street into a so-called hotspot if we’re the ones that get that call.”
Shairoon adds that on
average they complete 12 missions a shift.
“We really wish we could do more. It hurts me when we are still attending to something that’s not really life-threatening and a call comes in for something that is life-threatening and we can’t get there right away. Don’t get me wrong, we will attend to every call that we get, but it would be nice if people would be educated to use the system wisely,” she said.
Shairoon explained that emergencies were categorised into two sections: life-threatening and non-life-threatening. And while a broken arm is painful, it won’t kill you. However, flying through the front window of a car and sustaining a head injury might.
Often, though, Shairoon added, most patients, who remember them simply can’t thank them enough for saving their lives.
People like 53-yearold John Clarke, who fell off scaffolding at work and fractured three ribs.
Sitting in his garden during the interview, the Morvant resident recalls the pain he was in when his wife, Rookmin Clarke, 35, called the ambulance.
“After the fall I went to the hospital, where they
did an x-ray and found that I fractured one rib... however, around midnight I started to get real chest pain and I couldn’t breathe properly,” he said.
Rookmin said she was terrified of what was happening but was glad the ambulance showed up as quickly as it did.
“I know they are not right around the corner, but that night, it felt like they were because they were here in less than ten minutes,” she said.
“My situation was life-threatening. If one of those ribs that were broken had punctured my lungs I would have been (dead) you know...but thank God they came and they handled me in the correct way,” John added.
Sprucing up the garden in front of his home ahead of Christmas, John commended the ambulance team that attended to him and said while he hoped not to use them again, he would not think twice before calling.
“They looked after me good, and before the guy left me in the causality department, he came up to me, tap me on the shoulder and said, you okay now, you in good hands, we leaving now. And I told him thanks a lot for everything they had done.”(TT Newsday)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaican bass player Delroy 'WormBass' Nevin said, two years ago, he made a conscious decision to start recording as a vocalist.
That decision has paid dividends. Nevin was recently voted Best Male Roots Reggae Vocalist in the Lady Flava Radio First Anniversary Celebration and Award Show in Hartford, Connecticut.
"I have been recording since the early 1990s. But I began taking it seriously in 2012," he told the Jamaican media.
To claim his title, Nevin had to 'outclass' the competition, which comprised Paul Wayne, Thieko, Black Ice, Tony Anthony and Natural Vibes.
"I sing all different types of genre, but I came to touch some soul," he said.
According to the bassist, he was unable to attend the ceremony. The award, however, will be mailed to him.
He described the win as "a journey".
"I give thanks for the
win. I've been involved in the music business for nearly 30 years. This means more work, more studio, more tours and more music," he said. He said the transformation to vocalist was not a difficult one.
As a singer, he recorded Bring Back The Paradise featuring Beenie Man and Funky Reggae, with Cayman Islands artiste Sabrina. As bassist for Blaze Band, he toured with Beenie Man and was his musical director for nine years. He has tried his hands at producing.
"I produced Prophecy's album Break Loose (2011) and It's My Time (2005) by Everton Blender," he said.
Currently, Nevin said he is putting together a new band called Ball A Fire. But he'll continue to focus on making great music.
Reggae singer Sophia Brown, who secured the Best Female Lovers Rock, was among the evening's winners.
Lady Flava Radio Network is an online radio station operating in Connecticut. (Jamaica Observer)
KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Olympian Alia
Atkinson made history for Jamaica on Saturday when she equalled the world record in the 100 metres breaststroke at the 12th FINA World Short Course Championships in Doha, Qatar.
Atkinson touched just ahead of defending champion Ruta Meilutyte to claim the gold and equal the record of 1:02.36. Meilutyte was clocked in 1:02.46. The winning time was also a new meet record.
"I'm not used to see-
ing my name up there at No. 1. It's a good shock," said a smiling Atkinson after her win.
It is Jamaica's first short-course world title - a big improvement on Atkinson's achievement as the only Jamaican swimmer to ever finish with silver medals in the 50m breaststroke in 2012 and 2014 and the 100m breaststroke in 2012.
Atkinson's time tied Ruta Meilutyte's world record of 1:02.36 from the Moscow stop of the FINA World Cup. It also broke Meilutyte's meet record of 1:02.43 set Friday dur-
ing qualifying rounds.
With Saturday's win Atkinson also became the first black woman to hold a world short-course record since Enith Brigitha of the Netherlands 40 years ago. Brigitha set the 100m freestyle standard three times in her career.
In Saturday's event both Atkinson and Meilutyte who are known for their fast reaction times, were off ahead of the field with reaction times of 0.65 and 0.59, respectively. Meilutyte led after the first 50 metres turning in :29.10 ahead of Atkinson's
:29.46. Atkinson then exhibited brilliant form in overhauling Meilutyte in the second half of the race and in the process became the first female Caribbean swimmer to win a World Championship gold medal. Overall Atkinson has been having an outstanding championships. Her silver in the 50m breaststroke on day two was achieved in a personal best time of 28.91. She also earned a fourthplace finish on day three in the 100m individual medley in 58.58.
(Jamaica Gleaner)
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:
National champion Nyron Joseph was in top form, displaying his skill by defeating Ben Mekdeci in the final of the Digicel sponsored Farfan and Mendes junior Christmas tournament at the Georgetown Club squash courts.
Joseph came from one set down tow in the Category A match-up 3-1 on an exciting final to defeat Mekdeci.
Mekdeci looked in top form by easily claiming the first set of the match by an 11-5 margin. Mekdeci would come out in the second looking in rhythm once again flying out to a 10-8 lead before Joseph put on a show by winning the next four points to win the set 12-10.
Joseph then went onto win the next two sets at 11-9 and 11-3 respectively to seal the win.
Makeda Harding and Maya Collins also put on a dazzling performance as Harding won the Category C match 3-2.
Collins took the first set 13-11 as harding answered with two straight set victories at 11-8 and 114 before Collins answered with a fourth set win at 11-9 to set up the fifth and final set that Harding won 11-9.
The days’ results are as follows:-
Category H: Mohyryan Baksh beat Paige Fernandes 118, 9 – 11, 11 – 7, Beau Fernandes defeated Isabella Ramjohn 18 – 16, 23 – 21, Teija Edwards beat Geovanna
Dos Santos 11 – 9, 12 –10.
Category G: Samuel Ince-Carrahal beat
Jason Gomes 11 – 9,11 –3, Liam Carpenter beat Chad De Abreu 11 – 7,6 – 11,11 – 5.
Category F: Gareth
Da Silva beat Halley Carpenter 11 – 7, 11 –7, Nathan Rahaman beat Gareth Da Silva 8 –11,11 – 3,11 – 7, Nathan Rahaman beat Aliyah Persaud 11 – 5, 11 – 8.
Category E: Zachary Persaud beat Madison Fernandes 11 – 8, 11 –
3, Kirsten Gomes beat Nechemiyah Levans 11 – 7, 6 – 11, 13 – 11, Zachary Persaud beat Nechemiyah Levans 10 – 12,11 – 8,11 – 3, Nechemiyah Levans beat Madison Fernandes 11 – 4, 11 – 8. Category D: Demetrius De Abreulost lost to John Phang 7 – 11, 8 – 11, 1 – 11, Gianni Carpenter beat Demetrius De Abreu 11 – 2, 3 – 11, 11 – 4, 11 – 9, John Phang beat Dominic Collins 11 –7,11 – 8,13 – 11.
Category C: Rebecca Low beat Jael Gaskin 11 – 6, 11 – 6, 6 – 11, 8 –11, 11 – 1, Maya Collins beat Jael Gaskin 10 –12, 11 – 9, 11 – 3, 3 – 11, 11 – 5, Makeda Harding beat Maya Collins 11 – 13, 11 – 8, 11 – 4, 9 –11,11 – 9.
Category B: Larissa Wiltshire beat Taylor Fernandes 11 – 7, 11 – 6, 11 – 6, Taylor Fernandes beat Daniel Islam 11 –7, 11 – 6, 7 – 11, 11 – 2, Shomari Wiltshire beat Alex Cheeks 6 – 11, 11 – 8, 11 – 4, 8 – 11, 11
– 2, Daniel Islam beat Matthew Phang 11 –8,11 – 5,6 – 11, 9 – 11, 11 – 6.
Category A: Nyron Joseph defeated Ben Mekdeci 5 – 11, 12 – 10, 11 – 9, 11 – 3, Akeila Wiltshire defeated Alec Melville 11 – 5, 13 – 11, 11 – 3.
Final placing in the respective categories were as follows
Category H: Mohyryan Baksh –Winner, Category G: Samuel Ince-Caralhal – Winner, Category F: James Mekdeci – Winner, Category E: Zachary Persaud – Winner, Category D: Gianni Carpenter – Winner, Category C: Anthony Islam –Winner, Category B: Larissa Wiltshire –Winner, Category A: Nyron Joseph – Winner. Most Improved boyAnthony Islam Most improved girl –Kirsten Gomes Most Outstanding boy – Nyron Joseph Most outstanding girl – Larissa Wiltshire (Guyana Times)
Brian Lewis, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC), is keen on seeing Trinidad and Tobago being represented at the 2016 Olympic Games in two team events.
In a release to the media, Lewis stated: “The goal of two or more team sports qualifying for Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games requires two fundamental elements.”
He explained that “national sport organisations must share the TTOC’s vision of Olympic qualification — qualifying for the Olympics must be as
important to the national sport organisation as it is for the TTOC” and
“national sport organisations must have a High Performance plan that is based on best practices.”
In reviewing the performances of the national team sports at the recent Central America and Caribbean (CAC) Games held in Vera Cruz, Mexico last month, Lewis pointed out that only two team sports out of nine returned with medals.
The Men’s Hockey team returned home with a silver medal while the men’s rugby 7s team earned a bronze medal.
Rio Olympic Games qualification in most team sports would be de-
termined in 2015.
The TTOC had made it clear that team sports who medalled at the CAC Games would be shortlisted for resource assistance in 2015 with the stated objective of qualifying for Rio 2016.
The TTOC General Council will meet at 5pm today at Olympic House to discuss mainly the CAC Games Veracruz 2014 report.
On the issue of High Performance, Lewis added, “Trinidad and Tobago bringing home ten or more Olympic gold medals is both realistic and achievable. Sustained ef-
fort, scientific approaches, and ongoing development programmes are all necessary ingredients.”
He noted that a critical success factor is access to dedicated, predictable and systematic funding but believes the challenge is to dedicate and commit the requisite resources both at the administrative and technical levels. Lewis believes Trinidad and Tobago can develop and sustain a high performance system that could deliver success once the dedicated financial investment is made. (TT Newsday)
The Queen's School and Holmwood Technical captured the All-Island Junior and Senior titles, respectively, at the 2014 Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) High Schoolgirls Netball Championships at the St Andrew High School Court on Friday.
The urban champions defeated the rural champions Denbigh High 3528 for the Junior title, while rural champions Holmwood had to pull out all the stops to defeat Queen's 51-45 for the Senior title in extra time.
These matches brought the curtains down on the high school netball season, and one that will be remembered for the excitement that it brought.
For Queen's, goal-attack Shanique Francis scored 23 goals from 31 attempts and goalshooter Tishwauna Daley got 12 goals from 14 attempts, while for Denbigh Moyah Manning netted 27 goals from 29 attempts. The match of the day was the big showdown between defending champions Queen's and many-time champions Holmwood for the Senior crown.
Both teams were locked 5-5 in the early exchanges of the first quarter with Queen's assuming the lead at the break 13-10. The second quarter took a turn as Holmwood began holding their own nicely and drew even at 14-14.
They were tied two more times before Queen's went up once more to lead 21-19 at half time. Both teams began traded goals and it was anybody's game from then onwards. Queen's, however, managed to go up 39-36 as Holmwood
struggled to keep pace as they produced a few bad passes and their opponents capitalised well. With Queen's up 40-39 and seconds remaining on the clock, they looked to have the game in their hands, but a pass intercepted
by Holmwood managed to get the ball inside the shooting circle where goal-shooter Tracy-Ann Gordon scored to tie the game 40-40 a few seconds before the full time whistle sounded.
The teams went into 10 minutes of extra time to decide a winner as the hustle and bustle for goals intensified. However, Holmwood began to get the better of the urban champions and went up 45-32 at the end of the first five minutes.
At this stage, Queen's needed to contain Holmwood's fast plays and their control of the centre court which they had given up to their opponents. Holmwood went up 4843 as Queen's struggled to keep up with their pace and in the end went down 51-45.
Meanwhile, Simone Gordon scored 35 goals from 43 attempts and her teammate Tamoya Henry got 10 goals from 12 attempts for Queen's. (Jamaica Observer)
During last year’s Caribbean Premier League, a new concept was introduced whereby four promising Under-19 players were afforded the opportunity to train with the six franchises. WestDemerara’s all-rounder Akshaya Persaud was one of the four selected by the Guyana Amazon Warriors, and today the talented young man reflects on his experience mingling with some of cricket’s biggest names.
On being selected: When I was selected to be part of the Guyana Amazon Warriors squad, I was overjoyed. I was aware of my selection when I was in school writing my CSEC examination. It was two days before I finished my exams when I was made aware of my selection. At school, all my friends and teachers were very excited and surprised and many of them didn’t expect me to be selected for the team at an early age (16 years). My friends were more excited than I was when they heard the news. They gave me best wishes and my teachers gave me lots of advice. My parents were very happy when they heard and I knew that I made
them very proud. Also, my relatives and my friends were very happy.
The experience: My journey with the Guyana Amazon Warriors started on June 30 and ended on the July 20. All the players had to join the team on June 30 for the start of the camp on July 1.
The training started off tough for the first few days and as the camp was coming to a close the training became less tough. During the tough training, each and every Warrior of the team was motivating each other so that the team is at one level. The most amazing thing was that the senior players were always encouraging the other players so that the team was at the same point at the end of every training session. The activity which I enjoyed and loved the most during the training camp was the ice bath after every training session. We had to sit in the bath tub, which was filled with ice and water for seven minutes. The first day I went in the tub I felt like jumping out, because it was really cold, but the teammates were encouraging me a lot and they said not to worry about the pain, because the time will be over soon.
After the first day
experience with the ice bath, it was very easy for me for the rest of the camp. I really enjoyed those seven challenging minutes in the bath tub. Also during the training camp, we had game simulation sessions in the evening and some in the afternoon. During those sessions I learnt a lot from the senior players. In the game simulation sessions, we were giving a total to achieve in a certain amount of overs. I learnt how to approach different situ-
ations of the game differently and at very important time of the game. Another thing I will cherish is bowling and batting against both the local and overseas players. Firstly, bowling against Martin Guptill, Mohammed Hafeez, Lendl Simmons and Denesh Ramdin was like a dreaming come through for me. All of them are sensational batsmen. Also, not forgetting the local batsmen like Christopher Barnwell, Leon Johnson, Steven
Jacobs and Trevon Griffith. Secondly, batting against the bowlers, both local and overseas, was awesome. The bowlers didn’t give me a chance to settle down and I enjoyed the challenge. Thirdly, I will cherish the advice and encouragement that I received from Veerasammy Permaul. He encouraged me a lot during my time with the team and he gave me some vital bowling tips, since both of us are left-arm spinners.
The Warriors management: Being part of the Warriors squad was a dream come through for me at a very early age. The Coach Roger Harper helped me a lot during that period of time. He gave me a lot of vital tips in my batting and bowling, and also fielding. The Manager Omar Khan is the best team manager I have ever come across. He also did his job and ensured that the players were also comfortable and had no problems to deal with. Not forgetting the captain, Denesh Ramdin, he is a very good captain. Also, he’s the best captain I had ever played under and he’s always thinking of another idea in the case of one not being executed properly. He always keeps calm
in any situation, which I admire the most. Not forgetting the legend, Sir Curtly Ambrose. He shared a lot of his memorable games with us. The rest of the management was very helpful and kind towards me.
Special thanks: I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who helped me throughout my cricketing career. I would like to thank my parents, who played a very important role in my career, my friends, my school Saraswati Vidya Niketan, Cornelia Ida Cricket Club, West Demerara Cricket Association, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, my relatives and other family members and also the Management of the Guyana Amazon Warriors squad and Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop, the franchise owner of the Guyana Amazon Warriors and not forgetting my coach, Rabindranauth Seeram, who has been at my side from a very early age and who has guided me in every step of my cricketing career.
My next goal is to be part of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team as a member, playing in the Caribbean Premier League. (Guyana Times)
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Three Guyanese cricketers have been included in the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) 2015 ICC World Cup squad when the board released the provisional squad on Monday for the tournament set for February and March, 2015 in Australia and New Zealand.
Leon Johnson, Versammy Permaul and Narsingh Deonarine are the three Guyanese to be named to the squad.
Further, the squad includes several players who are yet to play at the One-Day International level. These are left arm seamer Kenroy Peters; Imran Khan, the ex-
perienced leg-spinning allrounder; off-spinner Ashley Nurse; 19-year-old fast bowler Marquino Mindley; Evin Lewis, the 22-year-old lefthanded opener; and Jonathan
Carter, the left-hander from Barbados.
West Indies will play in Pool B in the preliminary round of the 11th edition of the ICC Cricket World Cup.
They will do battle alongside defending champions India, Ireland, Pakistan, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and Zimbabwe. Before the tournament
West Indies will have warmup matches against England and Scotland.
FULL SQUAD: Sulieman Benn, Carlos Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Dwayne Bravo, Jonathan Carter, Sheldon Cottrell, Miguel Cummins, Narsingh Deonarine, Andre Fletcher, Chris Gayle, Jason Holder, Imran Khan, Leon Johnson, Evin Lewis, Nikita Miller, Marquino Mindley, Sunil Narine, Ashley Nurse, Kenroy Peters, Versammy Permaul, Kieron Pollard, Denesh Ramdin, Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith, Devon Smith and Jerome Taylor. (Guyana Times)
KINGSTON,
JAMAICA: Arnett
Gardens Football Club will contest their first Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Sherwin Williams Women's Premier League final against defending champions Barbican Football Club after both recorded contrasting victories in their respective return-leg semi-final encounters at Drewsland Mini-stadium on Saturday.
Arnett Gardens outscored GC Foster College 4-3 on sudden-death penalties after their mouth-watering contest ended 2-1 in favour of Arnett Gardens and 2-2 on aggregate. GC Foster College won the first leg 1-0.
Meanwhile, Barbican FC followed up on their 2-0 first leg win to once again prove too formidable for Los Perfectos FC, whom they blanked 3-0 for a 5-0 aggregate scoreline.
The Arnett Gardens -GC Foster College encounter was expected to be a thriller, and it did not disappoint the moderate crowd that turned up at the stadium. Both teams were slow into their stride and took a while to settle in possession.
However, Arnett gradually gained the ascendancy and pulled together a string of enterprising build-ups which
they failed to capitalise on. But the 'Junglists' eventually broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when KeanaShae Thomas slipped the ball through the legs of a defender before firing home a beautiful right-footed shot.
Thomas's goal turned out to be the decisive goal of the encounter, after GC Foster College's Rashana Palache failed to put away a penalty kick in the second stanza.
The St Catherine-based outfit
were reduced to 10-players in the 75th minute after Chevin Blair was shown a second yellow card by referee Graffique King.
With GC Foster College having held a 1-0 lead from the first leg, it meant that the teams would have to play an additional 30-minute of extratime to decide a winner. GC Foster College increased the tempo of the game and stuck their nose back in front at the end of first half of extra-time.
Substitute Roberta Jackson dismissed three defenders before picking out Palache who calmly slotted home in the 104th minute to redeem herself.
GC Foster College may have thought they secured a spot in the final for a second time. But it was not to be as Arnett Gardens were back on level terms in the 124th minute, thanks to leading goalscorer Shantel Bailey who finally came to the fore.
Bailey outsprinted two defenders and tucked home a well-driven left-footed shot to the far corner to send the game into the dreaded penalty kicks.
However, the star of the show was Arnett Garden's goalkeeper Kadian Edwards who blocked three shots compared to her opposite number Olivia Reid who stopped two. Khadene Salmon, Melissa Bryan and Keneshia Ferron all converted from the spot for GC Foster College, while captain Amanda Maxwell, Monique Pryce and Reid saw their shots being saved. Meanwhile, Tamara O'Sullivan, Sasha Gaye Brown, Sobiham, James and Sasha Ranger converted for Arnett Gardens. Edwards and Neesh Gaye Leslie were the hapless kickers.
The second encounter between Barbican FC and Los Perfectos FC turned out to be a one-sided affair. The league's leading scorer Tashana Vincent increased her tally to 18, when she opened the scoring for in the 39th minute.
Kenesha Reid extended the lead in the 43rd minute, before Tramaine Brown put the game to bed for the defending champions in the 51st minute.(Jamaica Observer)
TRINIDAD: Teenager
Brittany Joseph was back to her best as she played unbeaten in a fiveplayer round-robin series to take home the Reliable Maintenance Services Limited Super Singles TableTennis women’s title at the Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena on the weekend. Joseph of Arima Hawks had wins over clubmate Linda Partap-Boodhan 7-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-3, 13-11; vet-
eran duo Merle Bagoo 114, 3-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-7 and Verna Edwards 11-8, 9-11, 11-3, 11-5, as well as recently crowned 11-time national champion Aleena Edwards 11-7, 11-9, 11-7.
Partap-Boodhan made it a one-two Hawks finish as she won her other matches, over Verna Edwards 11-8, 10-12, 11-6, 13-11, Bagoo 11-4, 119, 10-12, 11-7 and Aleena Edwards, Verna’s daughter, 11-7, 9-11, 14-12, 13-11. The younger Edwards de-
feated her mother Verna Edwards 11-9, 11-6, 11-7 and Bagoo 4-11, 11-5, 11-7, 1210 for a 2-2 record and third spot, while Verna came out on top in the clash of veterans with Bagoo, 8-11, 11-5, 11-7, 11-7.
In the men’s competition, newly crowned national champion Yuvraaj Dookram and defending champion Trevor Farley of Barbado heads the field of qualifiers for Wednesday’s “Big-Six” round-robin series.
Farley brushed aside locals Che Pierre Fournillier and Aaron Edwards in his first two knockout matches before holding off a determined Declan John 14-12, 13-11, 11-7 while Dookram dumped Daniel Henriques and Joshua Maxwell and then cooled off Aleric Humphreys 11-4, 12-10, 11-4. The four other players who will be in contention for the title on Wednesday are top ranked local Curtis Humphreys, five-time nation -
al champion and local tabletennis association president Reeza Burke, teenager Aaron Wilson, two-time Caribbean champion and veteran Lionel Darceuil.
In the last-12, Humphreys defeated Sarvesh Mungal 1210, 11-8, 13-11; Burke beat Everton Sorzano 9-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-5; Wilson overcame Anson Wellington 11-9, 11-3, 11-2 and Darceuil humbled third ranked local, teenager Arun Roopnarine 11-7, 9-11, 11-7, 7-11, 1 (TT Guardian)
By RavendRa Madholall
TORONTO, CANADA:
Five Canadian cricketers have been chosen by Cricket Canada to participate in the International Cricket Council (ICC) High Performance Camp which is slated to begin on Sunday in Barbados.
The aspiring cricketers, all under-23, along with seven other players from United States of America and Bermuda will be under the guidance of Australian Coach Tom Evans.
A move by the ICC in collaboration with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) is to highlight these talents and pick six players to be part of the 2014 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 representing a Franchise each.
Nitish kumar, a national player and Nikhill Dhutta who
also featured at the highest level for Canada will be joined by Satimranji Dhindsa, Farhan Malik and Arshan Khan as the other boys from Canada.
The six teams that usually take part in the CPLT20 competition are defending champion Barbados Tridents, runnersup Guyana Amazon Warriors, Antigua Hawksbills, Jamaica Tallawans, St. Lucia Zouks and Trinidad and Tobago Red Force.
The seven-day camp will be at the Three W’s Oval where the under-23 team is set to compete in three practice matches which would showcase the talent and abilities to impress the selection team.
They are scheduled to clash with a Barbados Cricket Academy Invitational X1 while the North American boys will collide with Combined Campuses and Colleges in a T20
over and 50-over encounters.
The CCC team is expected to be led by Guyana's firstclass player Steven Jacobs and will include other players such as Barbadian captain Shemarh Brooks, Romel Currency, Omar Phillip among others.
Meanwhile, Cricket Canada’s General Manager Ingleton Liburd stated that the guys are very excited to be part of the action and more importantly staking a claim to touch gloves with some international cricket stars in the CPL T20 in the third edition.
“This [is] a huge motivation for our youngsters and I do hope they grasp it and is the cream of the crop of the young talent in Canada and this is an ideal opportunity for them to develop their skills and also qualify to play in the CPLT20 tournament,” Liburd mentioned.
Shiek Mohamed of New York Cricket also expressed similar sentiments of their players from the US. The three cricketers: Steven Taylor, Keifer Phill and Kushan Ganji are quality players and should be able to make an impression in the Caribbean.
“I think it is a great initiative to include these kids from USA into the HPC program, they can only learn from this experience and become better cricketers. I think it should be done on a consistent basis so other guys can look forward to the opportunity yearly and no doubt these guys would do well because they are naturally talented players,” Mohamed declared.
In 2015 again the CPLT20 should attract worldwide audience while a large number of famous international cricketers are due to represent their respective teams.
Some of the names that already featured since inception two years ago are: Sri Lankan fast-bowler Lasith Malinga, Pakistani pair Mohammed Hafeez and Shohib Malik, England’s senior batsman Kevin Pietersen, West Indians Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo just to name a few.
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:
The GCC Tigers and veteran side the Hickers both repeated their 2013 victories in the Diamond Mineral Water International Indoor Hockey Festival, while the Pepsi Hikers returned to former glory with a win in the Men’s division. The final night of the festival produced three high-scoring matches that entertained the crowd with displays of skill and speed at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.The pre-tournament favourites and national champions the Pepsi Hikers squared off against a determined Old Fort for the Men’s final.
Old Fort had just come off of their third comeback win of the tournament with two goals in the closing minutes of their semi-final against GCC and would enter the final with confidence and strong fan support. The Hikers however had experience, a sound game plan and a boisterous cheering section of their own.
Both teams regarded each other carefully as the game began with Old Fort falling off to a half-court defence and the Hikers quite predictably enjoying the majority of possession. Spectators seemed in for a long night as teams seemed reluctant to take chances that would leave their defence vulnerable.
A moment of brilliance however, by
MVP Jamarj Assanah would change the evening completely as he outpaced his marker and latched onto the end of a Robert France pass to deflect the ball into the open goal for a 1-0 Hikers lead. Old Fort responded like a disrupted nest of ants as the pace of the game immediately elevated to fever pitch. With Old Fort’s Aderemi Simon and Jason DoSantos trying to make inroads into the Hikers defence, Andrew Stewart would complete a Hikers counterattacking move and take his team’s lead to two. Overlapping right back Shane Samuels would score the third unanswered goal for the Hikers in the final minute of the first half to enjoy the
break with a three-goal cushion. Old Fort showed moments of skilful hockey in the second half, but if not for outstanding goalkeeping by Tony Cole the Hikers would have scored more than the two goals they managed in the second half. The Pepsi Hikers earned a well-deserved 5-0 victory, making it their sixth festival title in the Men’s division.
The GCC Tigers rounded out a dominant performance by improving on their pool match result against Spice with a score of 9-0 in the final. The one-sided affair saw a hat-trick of goals from Captain Sonia Jardine who led her team throughout the competition with
her entertaining stick skills and clinical finishing. Striker Kerensa Fernandes and defender Trisha Woodroffe both scored doubles, while promising juniors Ashley DeGroot and Dacia Woodroffe rounded out the score sheet with one each.
The Hickers managed to retain the Carib Veterans trophy for the third straight year in upstaging Old Old Fort 4-2. The duo of MVP Jerazeno ‘Skillaxe’ Bell and midfielder Devin Munroe was too much for the red army to handle. Munroe scored two of his three goals in the opening minutes to see the Hickers to a comfortable lead from the start. Despite two goals from Dexter Wyles and Chris Low-Koan, Bell would unleash a bullet of a penalty corner into the roof of the net and Munroe netted his third to claim the 4-2 victory in the end.
Jamarj Assanah of the Hikers was named the Most Valuable Player for the male category, while the award fell to GCC Tigers’ Sonia Jardine for the women. The veteran MVP was scooped up by Jerazeno Bell of the Hickers.
In the goalkeeping category, the best goalkeepers on show were decidedly Tony Cole of Old Fort for the Men’s, Briawna Gordon of Spice for the Ladies and Audwin Graham of Old Old Fort for the Veterans. (Guyana Times)