Pepperpot 06 11 2017

The Rory's Knoll pit

More than just mining

Guyana Goldfields Inc. committed to sustainable development â–ş Page

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More than just mining II

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

Guyana Goldfields Inc. committed to sustainable development

By Jasmaine Payne

“THE impact of human activities is some 10 times that of natural and solar factors. The fear is that our influence will cause irreversible catastrophes.” Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Control.

AS the world faces the reality of the adverse impacts of climate change, it has become clear to many that we can no longer continue to operate without considering how our actions will impact the environment and the lives of people. As such, the concept of sustainable development, that is, ensuring that growth and development are continuous while still protecting the environment, is one which

many corporations have begun to make part of their policies. This, therefore, aligns them with the goals of the countries within which they operate, as more and more, Governments, including Guyana’s, have come to make this a primary focus.

A shining example of corporations which have begun to align their operations along a sustainable, environmentally friendly path can be seen in the Guyana Goldfields Inc. operations at the Aurora Gold Mine in Region Seven. Guyana’s mining sector is a critical income earner for the country, with sugar, bauxite, rice and gold accounting for up to 75 percent of the country’s earnings. Here, the need for sustainable development can be seen: Part of the operations at Aurora Gold Mine, Guyana Goldfields Inc. The company says that it employs environmentally safe practices at every step of the gold- mining process

General Manager of Guyana Goldfields Inc., Thomas Henderson

how can the country continue its operations in the ever valuable extractive sectors, while protecting the environment?

General Manager of Guyana Goldfields Inc., Thomas Henderson, said that the company ensures that protection of the environment is considered every step of the way in their day-to-day operations. To ensure this, the company has full-time staff constantly monitoring and reporting on the company’s practices to ensure that the environment is kept intact.

“We do our recording to the EPA [Environmental Protection Agency’s] standards then the EPA comes in as well as the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission [GGMC] to review those statistics and results. We also have a third-party company monitoring what we do and ensuring things are up to standard,” he said.

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES Henderson said that the concept of sustainability is a commitment that the company has made as part of operating in Guyana, but more than that, it is in keeping with Guyana’s policy as well. “The standards of the country are similar to the standards that you would find in North America, so that’s good. There are other countries where they may set a standard but either they are not enforced, or there are ways around them and here, fortunately, in Guyana, they are aligned with each other,” he said.

But caring for the environment is also one of the company’s core tenets, as the company believes that environmentally sound practices and sustainability practices are the best Turn to page VII ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

III

, t i k c i K

to win it!

– How football empowers young women in hinterland communities

By Ravena Gildharie EVERY morning Verita Caesar, a 29-year-old mother of five of Trainline, Port Kaituma, juggles her household chores; prepares meals for the family, sees her spouse off to work, sends her kids to school and heads out in time for football training sessions between 6 and 8 am.

There is practice in the afternoons too, all to ensure that the female footballers are in ‘tip-top’ shape for competitions.

Caesar currently captains the Port Kaituma United Women’s Football team, which has been in existence for over eight years.

She is one of scores of females in hinterland communities where women’s football is a dominant sport, especially amidst limited employment, opportunities and co-curricular activities for young women.

There are female football teams in areas including Mabaruma, Sebai, Wauna, Matthew’s Ridge/Arakaka, Kamwatta and Waramuri in Region One; Wakapoa, Akawini,

Kabakaburi, Mashabo, Capoey and Tapakuma in Region Two; Mahdia in Region Eight; Deep South, Central and North Rupununi in Region Nine and; Kwakwani/Aroaima in Region 10.

Teams from Kwakwani and several villages in the Rupununi recently participated in the just-concluded inaugural edition of Guyana’s National Women’s Development League, which forms part of efforts to increase participation in women’s football and to widen the national selection pool.

But, while the hinterland female footballers look forward to someday being drafted into the national team, they continue to develop and showcase their skills within their various communities and compete against neighbouring teams. Much of the teams’ activities are supported by donations from the business community and private individuals, while most of the players sponsor themselves in terms of purchasing the required outfits, footwear and other gear.

Though it is merely a hobby, football is gradually helping to empower the young women as they remain committed to train-

ing, boosting their talents and taking competitions seriously.

“After I left school, there was nothing else to do, and that’s when I started playing football to keep myself occupied…I realised I’ve made some wrong choices in my life early on, but football is a good thing for these girls and that is what I try to teach them; to educate themselves and be aware of other opportunities out there,” Caesar related.

Though she has not benefited from enhanced educational opportunities, Caesar is convinced that through football, young women can aim for greater heights and elevate their standards of living.

SCHOOL DROPOUTS & TEENAGE PREGNANCY She observed that in most cases in the hinterland,particularly in the mining hubs, after the girls would have completed secondary education or either dropped out of school, they would often get into intimate Turn to page VI ►►►

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

FILES E S A C COURT

Man convicted in ’61 for stealing, freed by Full Court THE Full Court, on appeal from a magistrate’s court conviction, set aside the conviction but freed Appellant Evelyn on a charge of larceny of fruit trees.

That Court found that the magistrate ought not to have convicted the man for the offence charged but had sufficient evidence to amend the charge to call for a defence of unlawful possession.

But because of the small value of the booty, Chief Justice J. A. Luckhoo who delivered the judgment for the Full Court, said: “We do not think that the matter should be remitted to the Magistrate, but would simply allow the appeal and set aside the conviction and sentence.”

Under the Criminal law - the man was charged with Larceny of fruits growing on open land – Proof of simple larceny of fruits but not that fruits were growing on open land - Charge as laid cannot be sustained - Value of fruits small -- Defence to charge of unlawful possession not called for-Criminal Law (Offences) Ordinance Cap.14.s.74- Criminal Law (Procedure) (Ordinance, Cap 15s.41 (5) and (7) .

The facts of the case disclosed: The appellant was seen in T’s open farm in a spot where T had bearing orange and tangerine trees.

The appellant ran carrying under his arm a cloth bundle which he concealed under some grass in

other land. On being challenged he denied that he had any bundle, but the bundle was nevertheless discovered at the spot where he was seen to conceal it, and was found to contain oranges and tangerines.

The appellant, who had no farm in that area, offered to pay T for the oranges and tangerines and asked him not to make any noise.

The Magistrate concluded that the fruits were picked from the appellant on T’s land and convicted him of larceny of fruits growing on open land contrary to s.74 of the summary jurisdiction (Offences) Ordinance, Cap14. On appeal – (ii) the circumstances under which the Appellant was found in possession of the fruits warranted the Magistrate to call for a defence to the charge of unlawful possession invoking the provisions of s.41 (5) and (7) of the Summary Jurisdiction (Procedure) Ordinance ,Cap 15 , but as the value of the fruit was small the matter would not be remitted.

Appeal allowed.

J. C. Gon-

salves-Sabola for the appeIlant.

E.A. Romao, Senior Crown Counsel for the respondent.

The Chief Justice in the judgment of the Court: The appellant Carlton Evelyn was convicted by a Magistrate of the Georgetown Judicial District on a charge of larceny of fruit, contrary to s.

74 of the Summary Jurisdiction.

From his conviction the appellant has appealed The evidence for the prosecution disclosed that Viola Thornhill the virtual complainant is a farmer who cultivates oranges and tangerines on her farm at Mocha Back, East Bank, Demerara. Her farm is open land.

On the 5th Janury, 1960, Viola Thornhill went to her farm about 09:00hrs. On entering the farm, she heard a noise in her farm and she saw the appellant in a spot where she had been bearing orange and tangerine trees.

The appellant ran carrying a cloth bundle under his arm. She saw the appellant conceal the bundle under some grass on other land. Viola Thornhill challenged the appellant who denied that he had any bundle but Viola Thornhill and one Alphonso Thornhill (not a relative of VT) who also has a farm at Mocha went to the spot where Viola Thornhill had seen the appellant conceal the bundle .

By George Barclay There they discovered the bundle which was found to contain the oranges and the tangerines.

There was evidence that the respondent did not have a farm in that area. He offered to pay Viola Thornhill for the oranges and tangerines and asked her not to make any noise.

The appellant/defendant did not lead a defence or give evidence.

The Magistrate came to the conclusion that the oranges and tangerines were picked by the appellant on Viola Thornhill’s land.

Counsel for the appellant has submitted that even if it can be inferred that the oranges and tangerines came from Thornhill’s farm and were her property (which is not admitted )there was no proof that the offence of stealing fruit growing in open land had been committed.

Counsel contended and we think quite rightly, that it was not open to the Magistrate to convict the appellant of the offence charged even if simple larceny was disclosed by the evidence.

The appeal was allowed and the Court ordered that there will be no order as to costs.

The night rider and the midnight jumbee By: Abdool A. Aziz

NOCTURNAL HABIT HIS father cautioned him many times about the danger of coming home late. The words fell on deaf ears. This recalcitrant teenager would leave work at 16:30hrs stop by the cinema and take in a 17:00hrs matinee. He would remain and see a full feature at 20:00hrs. Then he would cruise home on his sports cycle, alone in the pitch black night; almost at midnight. Despite the dangers and warnings from his parents he would break the curfew. He loved to ride at nights. They called him ‘The Sheriff’. But one night he was frightened out of his wits when a Midnight Jumbee confronted him. And it was then that ‘The Sheriff’ lost his badge.

To get to his house he must ride over a bridge, about 1,000 yards away. He stopped his bike as fear gripped him. He saw a Jumbee at the head of the bridge. He saw it rising and rising and dancing. A few days ago, a man had fallen from the bridge and had drowned. ‘The Sheriff’ quickly turned around and headed for a relative’s house.

The next night he was home by 18:00hrs.

His father remarked: “Hey son, no cinema tonight?”

“Nah, films old. I give up movies from now on. I’ll be in early.”

His mother said: “What a change, son!”

“It’s time for me to bed down early. Jumbee out there.”

“You ah the Sheriff! You frighten spirits?” asked the father jokingly.

“It’s better to be home early. This Sheriff works only in the night. No Jumbee go bruck me neck.” And so the Nite Rider rode no lonely road.

What really happened The father, burdened by worry over his son’s behaviour, hit upon a brilliant strategy.

Jumbees usually leave their graves to ‘reign’ three nights following burial.

This was the third night.

He got a long bamboo pole, tied a big white cloth on it. He sat by the side of the bridge knowing that his son would pass there soon.

When he saw his son in the distance, he began to raise the pole. Then he dangled it and pushed it up higher. Jumbees walk on air.

Meanwhile, ‘The Sheriff’ was convinced it was the drowned man, Lilman. He wasn’t going to mess with this dead. Lilman lived a bad life. He was going to be a wicked spirit, and to crown it all, ‘The Sheriff’ had a run in with the deceased. It was years later that he learned the truth, and he was the centre of mockery. ‘The Sheriff’ lost his badge to a midnight jumbee - his own dad.

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

#SupportCreativity

For the love the arts

Paloma Mohamed’s Duenne

PLAYS are often used by playwrights to express the way they see they world or the way they wish to see the world. Even if the playwright writes fantasy or science fiction, there are usually elements in the work that refer to the real world. For example, in Game of Thrones, the mixture of religion and politics mirrors the way religion can influence politics and political decisions in the real world, while in the Harry Potter books, it might be argued that Voldemort’s hatred for ‘muggles’ highlights themes of racism and ‘othering’. Dr. Paloma Mohamed’s Duenne, now considered a Guyana Classic, does dwell in the realm of fantasy, but like the previously mentioned works, her play uses the fantastical, the mythical, and the element of folklore to address issues relevant to the contemporary world and Guyana.

Duenne is unusual in the way it presents only three characters who carry the play from start to finish. These characters are Madonna, a young, carefree artist; It, described as an “Ageless Mystical Character who can appear at will in either male or female form”, but might actually just be a stand in for God; and then there’s Aisha who the playwright describes as a “cherubic entity representing the life force”. Writing with the bare minimum of characters can, in some ways, be more difficult than writing with a multitude of characters and the way Dr. Mohamed uses her three characters to execute and sustain the tension in what is a really taut storyline, is one of the strong points of her play.

While, like all good works of literature, the play has several layers of meaning that are unveiled to the reader depending on the interpretation of the play. The interpretation that most often comes to the forefront is the one that has to do with themes of creation,

pregnancy, motherhood and abortion. The play opens with a scene that is ambiguous with regards to whether It has made love to Madonna as she sleeps. Later Madonna finds out that she is pregnant after It commands Aisha to attach herself to Madonna in the human world. This idea of a celestial being impregnating a mortal woman is one that can be found in mythologies all over the world: in the many conquests of Zeus in Greek mythology, for example, or the mortal women in Hebrew mythology who had sex with the Fallen Angels to produce the terrifying Nephilim. The ability to highlight global literary influences and the way they are transformed or merged with Caribbean mythology, not only reinforces the connections between folklore and mythical elements all around the world, but also emphasises Dr. Mohamed’s transformative strengths as she takes what already exists (the duenne, for example, is itself a figure from Caribbean mythology) and transforms and reshapes it to suit her particular

By Subraj Singh

ideology for this particular play. The way she is able to blend the real and the spiritual – symbolised through the connections between It and Madonna, as well as Aisha and Madonna – underscores the Caribbean element of her work, as Caribbean theatre is heavily built on the spiritual, the ritualistic and the mythological, while showing how these types overlap and influence the human world.

Coming back to the theme of abortion – a sensitive issue, even in modern-day Guyana – the play appears to grapple with some of the ethical and moral questions associat-

V ed with abortion in the way Madonna grapples with her pregnancy and unborn foetus, represented by Aisha. Madonna, for a lot of the play, seems to reject her pregnancy and her attacks on Aisha and attempts to get rid of Aisha can be seen as evocative of the intent to abort. However, by the end of the play, it does seem as if Madonna has a change of heart, which can be interpreted as the play being pro-life. But, if one really studies the play, the argument being presented by Mohamed is actually much more complex and nuanced than simply being “pro-life” or “pro-choice”, and unraveling and interpreting the messages of the play that relate to the experiences of womanhood and the power of creativity which doubles in both birthing and artistic production (Madonna is, herself, an artist) is one of the more interesting discussions that can be formulated from the play.

Overall, there is a vibrant sense of style to Duenne, which in no way masks the substance of the play, which lends itself to literary scholarship that more academics coming out of Guyana definitely need to pursue. The characters are interesting and the story is sublime. It is a young classic, but in a few years, will become even more worthy of the title.

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

The National Tobacco Control Act offers protection to the public EVERY year on 31st May, "World No Tobacco Day" is commemorated worldwide under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO). In Guyana, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) conducts all "No Tobacco Day" activities.

"No Tobacco Day" is a continual global campaign to educate the public as to the dangers of tobacco usage and to advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption including passing new Legislation or strengthening extant Legislation.

The Guyana Consumers Association (GCA) for many years has been one of the strongest advocates for stringent tobacco control and worked with Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, former Minister of Health and a very enthusiastic and able advocate of tobacco control. It was under Dr. Ramsammy’s watch as Minister of Health that the first National Tobacco Control Bill was drafted in 2012.

Unfortunately, for the last four years, the Bill was under review by various agencies.

It is at last now brought to Parliament and will hopefully become Law before year-end.

Tobacco usage is not only responsible for the death of over seven million people per

year but responsible for the serious impairment of health of many millions more. It is a major cause and exacerbation of diseases such as asthma, lung cancer and cancers of the mouth, of coronary disease, blood pressure, diabetes, some kidney diseases and also negatively affects the reproductive system. It also results in tooth decay and other dental problems. Tobacco use by pregnant women could also have very negative effects on new-born babies. The main reason why tobacco use causes so many serious diseases and ailments is that the tobacco leaf contains many harmful poisons.

Tobacco use is a threat to National Development. It increases health care costs It puts greater pressure on the hospitals and health centres by having to care for sufferers

from tobacco diseases and to expend foreign exchange on the purchase of drugs to treat them.

It decreases production and productivity of the national work-force by absenteeism and by workers being slower and less able to perform with maximum efficiency. It exacerbates poverty as the poor are the main users of tobacco and this drives them to spend less on food, education and health care.

"Second hand smoking" could also cause disease and death to non-smokers who inhale tobacco smoke in such places as public transport, waiting rooms, bars, and fast food restaurants. The new Legislation addresses this problem and seems to confine smoking to the confines of the home.

Many smokers would desire to end their smoking addiction and try on their own but with only mild success. Greater success could be achieved if there was organized help offered by the Public Health authorities and though the Legislation does not require it, the Ministry of Public Health should begin to provide it.

All over the world the Tobacco Lobby always try to delay Tobacco Control legislation or to influence such legislation in

their favour or even to circumvent it. When the Tobacco Control Bill becomes Law, the Ministry of Public Health, the Consumer and Competition Commission and the Consumer bodies must ensure that the Law is fully enforced.

An important segment of the Legislation would be concerned with marketing, advertising and packaging of cigarettes and other tobacco products. Advertising material should be absolutely truthful and there should be no deceit as for example promoting one type or brand of tobacco product as being healthier or better than another when all tobacco products are equally dangerous to health.

The GCA has always been advocating the adoption of the general Caribbean standardCROSQUE's model of packaging of cigarettes and tobacco products. In that model, the health warnings are prominently displayed and illustrated with graphic pictures of various diseased conditions caused by tobacco and at least 60% of the box or container's face is devoted to such warnings.

Smuggled cigarettes and tobacco products would now easily be identified since their packaging would not resemble the packaging under the new Legislation. The Customs Department could eliminate smuggling and the legal producers who have been bitterly complaining of smuggling and unfair competition would be happy.

The consumer community would feel much relief and even elation that the National Tobacco Control Act would have come into being.

is out of session.

“We haven’t really been recognised and the coach that came from GFF advised us that we need to get registered and then we can benefit from more exposure and opportunities,” Caesar indicated. She noted that there are many talented female players who never got the opportunity to showcase their skills outside of the region and eventually gave up the sport.

Aside from friendly matches against other female football teams in the region, a few of the women are usually selected annually to play during the Amerindian Heritage Month observance.

Similarly, in Wakapoa, Region Two, Marcyana Phillips also believes that more can be done to support female footballers in hinterland communities. She highlighted too that there are many talented young women who can advance their skills in the sport outside of their community, if given the opportunities.

Phillips joined the Wakapoa United team while she was a student at the Wakapoa Secondary School. Before that, she once attended the male team’s coaching sessions.

“The coach, who was from Barbados, saw me play along with the boys and he told me I had the talent and could play…so when

the women’s team was formed, I joined… football is a tough sport and some of the girls can be tough, but it’s a good sport,” Phillips said.

The players in her team are also required to purchase their own gear and only play in matches in nearby communities.

“Our community is one where there is no employment and you would find most of the girls going out of the area to get jobs and when they go, they have to give up football,” Phillips stated. However, while in the community, the sport is a useful tool to keep the young women grounded and disciplined, she added.

◄◄◄ From page III

relationships and start bearing children at a very young age.

“That is what we try to talk to talk to these girls about, educate them, encourage them to be disciplined, to stay in school and don’t rush into committed relationships so young,” the football captain indicated.

She pointed out that discipline is a guiding principle in her team which comprises 16 young women between ages 12 and 30. The majority of members are school-aged girls, but there are also housewives, teachers, nurses and other working women on the team.

Caesar advocates for the girls to refrain from consuming alcohol and to be aware of the risks of teenage pregnancy and other social ills that can affect their well-being.

During coaching sessions, the women often raise, discuss and seek advice on personal issues and domestic situations. The sessions often include the community’s social worker.

“We had one very young player, whose mother passed away and her father had a stroke and she was left to cook and provide meals for the family…her brothers were away in the interior and she was having some problems and she told us, and we managed to get some help,” Caesar explained.

Recently, the Port Kaituma women’s team got registered by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the women are optimistic of further support while in a league.

EXPOSURE Caesar’s team is planning a fund-raising event to sponsor the squad’s activities for this year. The team usually travels to other communities for various competitions during the year, but particularly during the July/ August and December seasons when school

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

can help to protect the environment. Underground mining will avoid the disturbance of larger tracks of land and pulling down vegetative cover will be reduced.

◄◄◄ From page II

operating procedures. “It’s no different from safety. If you have an unsafe mine, you have a bad mining operation. If you have an environmentally non-compliant operation, it is not a well-written operation as well, so you set those standards and guidelines. It sets the tone and the tenet for how you continue to operate and report,” he said.

Beyond the environmental aspect, Henderson said that sustainability is also seen in the development of human capital. The Aurora Gold Mine operations employ over 800 regular employees and contractors, of which about 96 percent are Guyanese. These persons are trained according to international operating standards.

“So they are developing skill sets that perhaps they didn’t have before coming here. And that’s 800 today, but not the same 800 that was here two years ago. So you’re creating more talent that, whether they are working here or someplace else, they are now deploying skills that you don’t have to import; you’re using your own people, so your country as a whole gains in the sustainability,” he said. Additionally, he said that some of those skilled persons may opt to leave the country, and many of them would send their receipts back to their country or return over time and contribute to its development.

WILDLIFE REFUGE Perhaps one of the telltale signs of an environmentally friendly operation can be seen in the active presence of wildlife. Henderson said that Aurora Gold Mine was becoming a “wildlife refuge,” which suggests that the animals feel safe enough to settle even among their operations. “We do baseline surveys on the wildlife that are here…we evaluate bird life, mammal life, flora and fauna, then we compare it from then to now, then we do it on an annual basis and through these annual updates, we are picking up an increase of wildlife and not only just wildlife, but the top of each of the species’ chains.

“Now, we have big cats that are quite frequently seen here; we have the eagles, the large predators that are coming in, that perhaps either weren’t observed before or they are finding this to be a safe place, in that they are not hunted as bush meat, so we manage that and we report on that,” he said.

Henderson boasted about some of the other environmentally friendly practices that the company observes. “With regard to the water discharge, anything that we touch here is discharged at near drinking water standards into the environment, so we are not putting an impact on the environment that is adverse.

“The clearing and grubbing of topsoils ahead of disturbance, we stockpile that so once it is done we can then reclaim those areas and put topsoils back in to start the re-vegetative process. Air quality and air-quality management; we still control our emissions and we clean our emissions prior to discharge,” he said. All this is topped off by educating the workforce about environmental standards, so that they can work in sync with the company’s practices.

SOLAR ENERGY Of course, the utilisation of renewable energy comes hand in hand with environmentally friendly practices, and Henderson revealed that the company was already looking at this

VII

General Manager of Guyana Goldfields Inc., Thomas Henderson, giving a presentation during a tour of the Aurora Gold Mine

option as well. At the Aurora Gold Mine, the company generates its own power, but this may soon change. “We continue to look into opportunities on the green energy side. It’s a lot of power out here. Our biggest challenge is that for green power to work, you need to connect to a grid because you can generate power when the sun is shining, but when it’s night time or it’s cloudy your ability to do ‘solar gen’ is gone and you are back to your base load that you have to live on,” he said.

Additionally, the requirement to build a solar farm for a large-scale operation would involve clearing away a large space of land (up to 25 hectares for about eight megawatts of solar power). “We are looking at starting with a smaller amount, like ‘half-meg’ solar plants at Buck Hall, where it’s going to be around forever.

“When we look at that, see if that works, we start looking at opportunities here to put solar panels on the base of the camp… so we would run solar energy into that during the day,” he said. According to Henderson, the

design site at Buck Hall is already completed and the actual project could be completed in less than a year.

Underground mining is also on the company’s agenda and is another mechanism which

GUYANA’S BEAUTY Even as the company continues along its path of sustainability, a mere visit to the Aurora Gold Mine operation would tell you how difficult it would be to do anything but honour and protect the environment. Even among all the man-made stamps that the mining operation has called upon the site, Guyana’s natural beauty overpowers it still.

Henderson, himself, has spent 20 years mining in other countries, but expressed that he was proud that the people of Guyana had significant respect for their environment. “I have been disappointed by some of those locations, how they would devastate their rainforest and they would just have unregulated small-scale mining using mercury, and chopping down trees and sending out logs to other countries without giving added value to them, but my first impression coming to Guyana is that, ‘My gosh, here is one country that has not made the terrible mistake that so many countries have.’ It is still like a natural rainforest; there are still the beautiful forests and the trees and the Government actually takes a lead in that; in helping to control how harvesting takes place. So from that standpoint, I have been incredibly impressed and blessed to be here,” he said.

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

When does ‘old age’ begin?

By M Margaret Burke

INTERESTINGLY, old age can only commence when youth ends, but there are some problems with this. Both the young and old seem to have some difficulties making up their minds at what age youth should end and until there is a decisive answer, there can hardly be any conclusion on when does old age begin.

Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot interviewed a number of young persons between the ages of 18 and 35, most of whom had differing views on when old age really begins; however, they were mostly consistent on not being fully conclusive on when youth ends.

EXPRESSIONS OF THE YOUTH Patrice Simone said that from the time he started growing up as a child, people would always ask, 'How old are you?' They never ask how young are you? Therefore, I would have to conclude that from the day a person is born, they begin to age, and as long as they live they just get older.” As

a young man, he did not define aging in terms of a specific number, but as an everyday event, in which people grow older every day.

However, when quizzed on defining ‘real’ old age by a number, he concluded that when a person reaches “half of a century,” then maybe people can start thinking of them getting down in age.

Trevor Smith, another young male, said, “People having reached the age of retirement, maybe, just maybe, can be considered old. I say maybe, because as far as I am concerned, some people who are considered old and have to retire from their jobs are more able-bodied that some of our young people.

“I see some big people ‘mambo’ and do far better that many young people in and out of the office. My mother, for example, would do some things that I don’t even know if I can do them; the woman is fit, she is physically strong, and she is quick; she is sharp!

“If I have to put a number to old age, then I feel safe to say, maybe from 65 – af-

ter retirement.”

Sonia Garfield, a young lady, said, “As far as I am concerned, old age has to do with how a person feels and looks. You see, a woman or man can be big, big, like 50, 60 or even 70, but because of how he or she is taking much care of his or her body, they look good and even feel good about themselves. I see that over and over.

On the other hand, some people look so old so fast, that you have to wonder if they were ever young, and the thing is that they might be younger than me, because I am 35, but many people guess my age between 25 and 27.

“I would say that old age has to do with not just the number, but how you look and feel about yourself, also how people treat you. For me, old age would start when I am probably in my 60s.

“It is like a flower that must begin to wither…after blooming for amount of years, then one has to give up or might I say give in to time and begin to know one’s place; this is that you are getting old and must accept it gracefully,” said Marlyn Latcher. She said that the age of 37 and being the mother of five children, while she feels good about herself, she also feels that it is time for her to step down and give her daughters time to now shine. “They are now young, not me. I want to give them the chance to enjoy youth and we can’t all be in the same place at the same time,” she said.

Many other young people interviewed expressed similar views; most of them had a difficulty making up their minds on where to put a number to commence old age. They generally felt that age is just a number OLDER ADULTS ON THE GO, KEEPING FIT Meanwhile, adults who were interviewed – between the ages of 55 and 75 -- all concurred that age is not necessarily an indication of aging, but that it is just a number. Almost all of them said that they felt many years younger, and was certain that they looked younger too. The only difference was most of them preferred to remain anonymous.

Albert (only name given) said, “I believe that old age should start at age 68, because right now I am 65 and I do not feel old as yet. To be honest, I can go the length

with some things like I used to before, but many people much younger than me are not able to do so either – ask my son, he said, with a smile on his face.

“Because of maturity, I think faster than my son, but the thing is that I do not know if he would ever be able to think like me. I try my best to train him, but when I was his age I was doing much better. Then I would try him out with one and two things; test my strength against him and so on, and I find that [at] age 44, the man can’t even do some of [the] things that I do,” he concluded.

Mrs Patterson declared, “The older I get the younger I feel. There was a time when I used to feel so old and ashamed of myself. I had gained a lot of weight and my husband was giving me all the problems in the world. I used to feel like I was going crazy and so those feelings caused me to feel old and cold.

“But now, now I feel so young at 66.

I have remarried and feeling good about me. My husband is five years old than me, but he too would tell me, ‘Girl, you sure you are bigger than me? I can hardly catch up with you and I would laugh.” She says that she really does not know at what age to really put: ‘starting to get old,’ but to be on the safe side, I would say when you are in your 60s you can say that you are getting old.”

GLOBAL STUDIES Studies done by many media houses -- as well as universities and other institutions -- have not all come up with a particular age when people are no longer young and when they can be considered old. However, there seems to be one trend with the age at which people can concede that they are at least getting old, and that age is in their late 60s. It would seem therefore that people are people all over the world, because most of the young people here, as well as the older folk felt the same that close to 70 is a more acceptable age for getting old. The young people are also trying to ensure that they remain young for a longer time. It has also been widely established that people today are living longer, working longer and contributing more in their later lives. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

Joining a Gym

– Things women should consider

THERE comes a time in every woman’s life when she becomes more aware of her body. At this time, be it after she just had her first child, when she becomes ‘middle aged’, or when she may have just begun to put on some unexplained extra pounds, she begins to search for ways in which she can make some changes, while at the same time venturing down a healthier pathway.

But it is here that some women, who are newbies to the world of fitness, may become a bit flustered after seeing the world of options that are before them.

Which exercise will help them lose weight faster? Which will tone their thighs and their butt? Which exercise will help them to loosen their muscles?

The options are endless: Weights Training, Cardio exercise, Aerobics, Spin classes, Cross fitness training, Zumba, Yoga. Different workouts do different things, and it is important that you know what your needs are before you delve into an exercise routine.

Fitness expert, Vanilla, who currently instructs classes at “Space Gym and Fitness 53” says that when looking for a workout routine, the ones that are best are the ones that you enjoy, as this will encourage you to give your all during the exercise, thereby reaping the most fruitful results.

“There is a wide variety of workouts to choose from, depending on the gym you attend,” she says.

“Most gyms in Guyana offer strength training and cardio classes, but there are some gyms like ‘Space Gym and Fitness 53’ that offer Zumba and Yoga.”

And while many persons may look to just one exercise to give them the workout that they need, Vanilla actually advises that they mix their workouts, stating that the body reacts better with ‘muscle confusion’.

The Fitness Instructor also provided some worthwhile tips for women looking to start Gym. Here’s what you should know: ● If you have any injury, make sure you get clearance from a doctor before you begin any exercise class. The doctor will be able to let you know if your body will be able function under the pressures of exercise or if the injury could get worse. It is also important to listen to the doctor’s advice. ● Always walk with a towel and water. It’s the gym, and you’re expected to sweat, but sweating profusely could make you slip, or could affect your vision if the sweat gets into your eyes. Meanwhile, water is necessary to stay hydrated during those intense workouts. ● It’s always best to talk to a trainer about your fitness goalsl they are there to help you. Some people feel intimidated

when they go to the gym and see trainers, but they are equipped with the knowledge to help you know which exercises are best for you; how much you should do; and what combinations you should use to reach your goal. ● Be polite with other members of the gym; you never know when you may need their help. A Gym is not a place for competition; it’s a place where people should support each other. Everyone is on their own path to fitness, therefore it shouldn’t take much for you to be supportive of others in their own quest. And you will find that you will receive the same support in return. ● Don’t wear high-scented perfumes, because it can affect another person’s breathing. Gym is not a place for glamour; it’s a place where sweat and grime is expected. There is no need to spritz yourself up for fear of smelling bad. The focus should be on the fitness. ● Always wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and comfortable sneakers. Again, Gym is not a fashion show. Ensure that your clothing can stretch and can endure heavy action. It’s not about how you look while in the Gym; it’s about how the Gym will make you look in the longrun.

Some women may prefer being trained by female instructors. For those who do, the following Gyms in Guyana have female instructors who can help you with your fitness goals: ► Space Gym ► Fitness Express ► Genesis Fitness Express ► Flex Gym

Vanilla advises that women know what it is they want before choosing an exercise routine

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

Finding a caring home – How children are reintegrated from care facilities to families

By Ravena Gildharie THERE are over 600 children living in residential care facilities countrywide and despite the limitations, priority remains on reintegration of the kids with families after careful and well-structured reviews by relevant authorities.

In accordance with the state’s policy upheld by the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA), each case is reviewed after six months to determine whether a child in the facility can be reunited with his/her family or alternatively, be placed in foster care or adoption. According to the CCPA, children are placed in the care facilities as a last resort

after other avenues are explored.

“Normally, when we get these kids, we try to get an aunt or other family member to take in the kids, but sometimes you find there are personal issues that they can’t or won’t do it, so we have to send the kids to the care facilities,” a case worker explained.

Currently, the CCPA in collaboration with UNICEF and a non-governmental organisation, Blossom Incorporated, is implementing a special reunification project that reviews the status of children in ‘residential care facilities to determine whether they are eligible to return home.’

Reporting on the project recently, the Government Information Agency quoted the CCPA’s Director Ann Greene as saying that, “The children that could be returned to their biological families will be returned to them.

We’re also looking to see the progress that the families have made, so that we can return the children; we’re not going to return a child to a family or a situation where we have removed them from and nothing has changed.”

Greene explained that the project is being carried out mainly by members of Blossom Incorporated as her staff is already burdened with heavy workloads.

COUNSELLING & FOLLOW- UPS Each case worker already has a gamut of cases and more is added daily. Apart from reviews and reintegration, guiding adoption and foster care and providing counselling, the workers also do follow- ups. They design care plans that include schedules for counselling and follow-ups.

However, some caregivers remain concerned about reintegration and the provision of adequate counselling and follow-ups with children passing through the care facilities.

“These children are often very aggressive because they feel they have no security and that no one cares about them, no matter how hard we try to help…they have a lot of anger issues and we see a lot of bullying and hostile behaviours,” related Indira Dowlat, administrator of the Prabhu Sharan Home located at Cornelia Ida, WCD. There are 31 kids presently at this facility.

The administrator acknowledged that resources are limited for more frequent counselling, and stressed the involvement of society. While volunteers, law- enforcement officers and others visit and support the kids at her facility, she expressed dissatisfaction with some of the teachers at the kids’ schools.

“I think some of the teachers can pay more emphasis to the children knowing that they come from the Homes and need that extra guidance. Sometimes my kids come home without their work checked for days or sometimes they go to class and don’t do anything,” Dowlat indicated.

She said about 60 percent of her kids are adopted, while some are reunited with families and others placed in foster care.

Follow-ups are crucial and since she is unauthorised to do this, Dowlat asks the case workers to check on certain kids and she is grateful for the collaboration.

Some of the older children remain in care facilities until 18, and according to Dowlat, it is sometimes a heartache to get family members or relatives willing to house them.

EDUCATION “We focus heavily on learning and education…Our kids attend the Swami school and while they prepare for CXC exams, we begin looking for far-off family, maybe an aunt or uncle or cousin and we say to them, ‘look, this child is about to write CXC and he/she is likely to get so many subjects and may soon have a job,’ so what we are asking for is a shelter and for them to guide these kids as they exit our Home,” Dowlat outlined. Some of her children are teachers, bank workers, engineers and medex.

Nevertheless, she added that sometimes the children are unprepared too and find it difficult to adjust to new households and environments.

This is the same reason why several young persons who grew up in A Sanctuary Children’s Home on the Soesdyke- Linden Highway returned to live and work at the facility.

Administrator Glennis Smith explained that her facility, sponsored by the Brooklyn Tabernacle, offers a family-structured environment to embrace and comfort the kids, many of whom would have suffered neglect, abuse or mistreatment in their biological families.

“We see some children coming here with really messed-up minds…there was one who didn’t even understand what fatherhood meant or what it is to have a father…so we try to teach them that they are created for a purpose,” Smith related. With this in mind, she, like Dowlat, stressed the need for adequate counselling from well- trained professionals based on the sensitivity of the cases.

She organises lots of field trips for the kids as part of their healing process. Since the Home is located in a remote area, she has established a school nearby, while there is a Georgetown location that houses those attending secondary school in the city.

YOUNGER KIDS Smith reported that some of her children have been progressing as one young man is a University of Guyana graduate employed at the Ministry of the Presidency. However, there are a few that haven’t yet had desirable outcomes.

Though her facility mainly caters for teenage children, Smith had to accommodate younger children. She currently houses a two-month-old baby. In recent years, she has observed that smaller kids are ending up in the system and since her facility is not equipped for them, they become housed with older siblings who can help to care for them.

In Berbice, the Anjuman Orphanage is one of the oldest and largest care facilities in operation, currently housing 50 children.

A family-owned facility, administrator Abu Mandal said his Home gets significant support from the community.

“We have had visits from the police, the doctors, teachers and even the commander and his wife who would come from time-totime to talk with the kids…last Christmas, Terry Gajraj had a big party and invited all the kids too,” Mandal detailed. He also has accommodated babies and toddlers, but noted that he has staff that serve as nannies for the younger kids.

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

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AUTISM Hello Everyone, I hope this week has treated you well.

IN the last few weeks, I have had many emails requesting information on different types of illnesses. It just brings to light how many individuals and their families are suffering from these disorders and even more so, how much they want others to understand it. Today, I will be speaking about autism as it was requested, but mostly because I have seen first- hand how misunderstood it is.

WHAT IS AUTISM? Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which results in impairments in many regular activities such as both verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction, learning ability and overall behavioural skills. It is diagnosed at a very young age, usually in the first two years of life and continues throughout adulthood. Autism is more common among boys than girls and is often confused with mental disabilities.

While those with autism do have disabilities, they can sometimes have superior abilities.

For example, some are exceptionally good at math or art.

Autism can be mild or severe and therefore falls on a spectrum. Many with autism remain non-verbal, have an academic disability and have additional mental and physical health issues. These range from stomach issues and seizures to anxiety and phobias.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS/ SYMPTOMS OF AUTISM? Autism is mostly characterised by repetitive, compulsive and restricted behaviour.

Their overall development is slower than non-autistic children, meaning, they may take a longer time to walk or talk. The repetitive behaviour can happen when they are angry or excited for example, body- rocking or clicking of the tongue.

Issues with sleeping and sensory processing are common. This means that these individuals are very sensitive to loud sounds, bright light or sharp-tasting things. Most people with autism also suffer from Pica, which is the tendency to eat objects which are not food. This can be very dangerous and may

require full supervision.

Children with autism typically like routine. They like to eat the same foods, watch the same T.V. shows and use the same hygiene products. Change is not taken well and often results in disrupted behaviour or outbursts.

Fixations on material items or even people are common and tends to calm them down. This is important as self-harm is common in those with autism. This can be anything from hitting themselves to poking their eyes when they become angry/stressed.

They do not understand and process situations normally. For example, they do not understand the concept of ‘waiting their turn’ in a line. They may not even respond to their own names.

Those with autism are not well in social situations and may not make any eye contact at all. There seems to be a lack of understanding, sympathy and empathy. It is difficult for autistic individuals to understand that others may want or feel differently than they do.

All of these symptoms of course negatively affect their relationships with parents, siblings and peers.

It is important to remember that the autistic individual cannot help their disrupted behaviour just the same that a depressed individual cannot but be depressed. Their behaviour can change over time through

positive reinforcement, but cannot be beaten or ‘punished’ out of them in any way.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR AUTISM? Like many other illnesses, autism has a strong genetic connection. For example, studies show that those with a parent or sibling with autism are about 25 times more likely to develop it than the general population.

Research also shows that environmental factors may increase the risk for autism. Pregnant women who are exposed to air pollution, for example, heavy metals or pesticides, increase the changes of the baby developing autism. Alcohol, illegal drugs and infectious diseases such as Rubella during pregnancy also increase the risk of autism. Children who were born prematurely or underweight are more at risk. Some studies also show the advanced age of either parent is also a risk factor.

Autism is also caused by chromosome abnormalities and rare mutations. Feel free to ask your doctor more about this.

How is autism treated and managed?

While autism cannot be cured, there are interventions that result in reduced negative symptoms and increased life skills and abilities.

Medication is not always needed for autism, but it does lower subsequent symptoms

such as stress, anxiety and anger.

Therapies and home routines are better at managing autism. For example, therapies that focus on communication, social skills and self-care are very effective. A family member or friend can feel helpless in this situation, but there are a few things that you can do.

Go with them to the nearest health-care provider if you believe he/she may be suffering from autism. Keep a detailed list of their likes and dislikes for everyone to see. Make pictures for them to better express how they feel, especially those who are non-verbal. For example, draw faces showing happiness, sadness, anger etc., so that the autistic individual can show those around them. It is frustrating if they believe that others do not understand how they feel. You can also show it to those affected to allow them to understand how you feel.

If you feel as if you may need help with your autistic loved one, you are not alone.

Not only can your doctor help you, there is a school specifically for autistic children within our community. It is located in Region Four.

The Step by Step School was established in 2011 in order to bring education and support to children diagnosed with Autism Disorder.

School Address: Lot 3, Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara, Guyana Phone numbers: Guyana (592) 233-5992 or (592) 222-2633 or (592) 231-4172 Email addresses: sjismail1@gmail.com or vanessaseebarran@yahoo.com Facebook Page: Step by Step Guyana Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. Also please remember when you can come see me.

Georgetown Public Hospital :MondayFriday – 8am- 12pm Woodlands Hospital: Outpatient Department Drug and Alcohol group meetings Mondays 4:00pm Good mental health group meetingsWednesdays 4:00pm Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001. 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

#SupportCreativity

Reflecting on Tilting Axis 3 – Making connections with the community A FEW weeks ago, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kerri-Anne Chisholm (Assistant Curator) and Jessica Ebanks (Education Officer) of the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands just days after the conclusion of Tilting Axis 3.

During our conversation, we discussed their engagement as hosts of the conference as well as some of the most memorable experiences that came out of their involvement in the three-day event.

Dominique Hunter: What did it mean to have a conference like Tilting Axis 3 hosted in the Cayman Islands?

Jessica Ebanks: Having Tilting Axis 3 in the Cayman Islands was a pivotal moment. My work in particular is really hands on with a lot of the kids. It gets quite insular, because the focus is on what’s happening here in the community. So I don’t look outside of Cayman very often. Getting a wider context about what’s going on in the region through this conference was a big takeaway for me.

Kerri-Anne Chisholm: Our art history in Cayman is quite young. Sometimes I get frustrated and wonder, “Is it that all of the great things are happening outside of our region?” But having those professionals come in and talk about what is happening in the region [and realising that] the conversations happening professionally in museums are some of the same conversations happening in smaller ways was really exciting for me. I think that was something that regenerated my focus.

DH: It’s interesting because like you said Kerri-Anne, those conversations are happening everywhere at various levels. It’s always exciting for me to tap into those discussions to hear some of the larger concerns that are being discussed and to really examine the intersections. I was wondering if you could pinpoint some of the larger concerns that you would’ve had going into this project that you hoped would be addressed.

JE: Two barriers we face as an institution are accessibility and relevance within our community. I think those are common throughout galleries and museums in the region, because culturally Caribbean people don’t have a history of museum- going.

It’s not a mainstream part of our culture. The museum or gallery might be seen as an elite organisation that is not relevant to the majority of the people in the community. So how do we break down those perceived barriers of class? We work for members of the community. We don’t want to be an ivory tower that seems inaccessible and over the heads of what’s actually happening in the community.

KC: It was also helpful for me to hear about the alternative spaces and how they’re connecting to the community and big institutions. You have museums that are reaching out to the community and doing so effectively. Then you also have smaller alternative spaces that are standing as a halfway point, creating the connection with communities that aren’t going to the museums. [Although those alternative spaces] are separate from the museum, maybe the museum could have programmes that reach people in their spaces.

DH: I’m curious about ways in which the gallery tries to bridge that gap between the gallery as an institution, the community and also how the gallery engages with the artist.

What are some of the ways in which the gallery supports those connections between institution, community and artist?

JE: We try to address those concerns about reaching the community through education initiatives. Our admission is free to make it accessible for anyone in any financial position.

We offer free after-school art classes for students from primary to high school. We do outreach programming not only in the gallery, but we also have lessons for senior citizens and persons

need to make those connections and create models for sustainable practices, whether curatorial or fine art, and they’ve managed to do so quite well. A lot has developed as a result of that initiative.

JE: I think another big takeaway was not just that Tilting Axis opened up Cayman’s art scene, but it also reminded us that there are places within the region that we could still expand to and connect with. We had a presentation by [Jamaican writer and curator] Nicole Smythe-Johnson, who was doing her fellowship through Tilting Axis. She chose to focus on places in the region that were typically under-represented in the arts world. So she travelled to Barbados, Grenada, Suriname and Puerto Rico, specifically because we don’t hear a lot about what’s happening in those places. I think it was really inspiring to put the spotlight on those historically under-represented

Kerri Anne Chisholm, Assistant Curator, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

with disabilities. We have art lessons in some of the prisons and the rehabilitation centre. We try to provide as many opportunities for people to come to the gallery. If they were unable to come to the gallery, then we would go out to them and provide art services.

KC: The national gallery is also trying to create more opportunities like artist residencies and exchange programmes, because there aren’t any other spaces that provide artists with those opportunities. I think one of the difficulties is funding.

We’ve had artist-away programmes where we sent artists to train in Cuba, but securing funding is difficult. That’s something we’re actively working to change.

One of the things tagged on to the end of Tilting Axis 3 was a one-day symposium called The Business of Art. It was an idea presented by the Director of the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, [Natalie Urquhart]. We wanted to have an opportunity for local artists to learn art as a business, because essentially your practice is a business. Now artists and professionals in Cayman have the opportunity to speak and make connections with artists and professionals around the region and in the diaspora.

JE: That was probably one of the biggest takeaways for me as well, meeting people, making those connections and engaging with people who are doing this work. Geographically we are quite isolated from a lot of the region and we do feel like we’re off on our own. So to have people here and have my eyes opened was really great.

DH: What I like is that Tilting Axis developed out of the

Jessica Ebanks, Education Officer, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

places and to shift the conversations into new areas.

[Bahamian artist] Blue Curry told us that he discovered some of the words used in The Bahamas are the same words we use here. It’s interesting how these words have travelled and how we’re connected in a way that we weren’t even aware of.

I think it’s amazing to relearn our connections to each other.

KC: And although we’re so close to each other, in a sense, there is this thing that separates us. But having the same history as being from the Caribbean also connects us on a very different level. It crosses those barriers. So having work come out of this melting pot of people and looking at that work will be extraordinary, because it will resemble the people. It will echo their experiences, the differences and the similarities.

Tilting Axis 3 opened on May 18 and continued until May 20, 2017. The three-day conference was hosted by the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands and organised by ARC Inc., Fresh Milk Art Platform Inc. Members of its core committee included Holly Bynoe, Annalee Davis, Tobias Ostrander, Mario Caro and Natalie Urquhart. Sponsors of the event included Res Artis, Perez Art Museum Miami, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, the British Council, Davidoff Art Initiative, and Susan Olde, OBE.

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

THE fruit of the soursop tree has a spiny outer skin with a soft, heavily seed-laden pulped interior. Each fruit may grow over a foot in length and, when ripe, the soft pulp is used to make ice creams and sorbets.

In fact, this small evergreen tree produces the largest fruit in the Annonaceae family. Reportedly, the fruit may weigh up to 15 pounds and is often a lopsided heart shape. The seeds and bark are toxic. Soursop is known by many different names depending on its country of cultivation.

There are many different varieties of soursop trees in Guyana. There are three well known varieties: Blanca, Lizza and Marado. The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is currently conducting studies to develop prescriptors to classify the lesser known varieties based on various configurations such as taste and shape; and rectify the nutrient deficiencies observed in the fruit.

Usually, following the rainy season, fertiliser would be applied to the soil. However, it was observed that during prolonged rainy season there is proliferation of various pests and diseases. As such, it is recommended that fertiliser be applied to the soil prior to the rainy season. While this technique is likely to reduce the incidence of pests and diseases, other precautionary measures should be taken to eliminate certain pests such as the soursop wasp.

The soursop wasp is a pest that affects

the healthy development of the soursop fruit.

Adult females oviposit in the developing seeds of young fruit with a very long ovipositor. Over 75% of soursop fruits may be attached during a single growing season.

Newly emerged female wasps prefer to oviposit in fruits that are 3-4cm in diameter and 2.5-5.0 mm long.

The wasp develops strictly in Annona seeds. Economic damage occurs when the adults chew their way out of the fruit, creating a 2mm diaphragm tunnel that provides entry for other insects and decay organisms. Female soursop wasps can reproduce without males.

It produces approximately 4-5 generations per year.

The incidence of the soursop wasp is evident by two types of damage: Seed damage by the developing larvae that can lead to the loss of seeds for propagation and valuable germ plasm.

Fruit damage by the adult wasp that emerges from the seed and tunnels an exit hole through the fruit. The main injury is the small exit hole made in the developing green fruit. The area around the hole forms a hardened callus that persists as a permanent injury through which other insects and pathogenic organisms enter, to cause further damage to the maturing or ripening fruit.

NAREI is currently conducting a pest management trial at Parika, where the

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wasp is common. The institute recommends the following management techniques: MANAGEMENT FIELD SANITISATION Good field sanitation is critical for wasp control. Pick up any fallen and decaying soursop fruit and seeds and burn them. If you cannot burn in your area, place collected material in a strong clear plastic bag and tie the mouth. Leave in the sun for about 2 weeks to cook before disposing or composting. This must be done on a regular basis to reduce the wasp population.

BAGGING This can be achieved using either mesh bags or plastic bags. When bagging fruits, they should be approximately 2.5 – 5.0mm long. Before bagging it is very important to ensure no aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs or scales are on the fruit. If either of these are present they should be removed by hand using a small brush or washing with water. Alternatively, a mild insecticide, insecticidal soap or white oil can be used.

When mesh bags are used, care should be taken that it hangs completely free, and is inspected and adjusted regularly to ensure the fruit does not touch the bag. When plastic bags are used, small holes should be pierced in the bags to allow for free drainage.

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

The River of 100 Turns – An unforgettable experience

A small engine boat embraces another turn as it finishes one

By Vanessa Braithwaite ‘GUYANA, the land of many waters,’ is a saying known by every school child, but to experience those waters first-hand is something I have grown surprisingly fond of, since my stronger phobia is having any contact with water. Being in the media profession, it is a phobia I have learnt to confront bravely, since travelling is a must and given the terrain of the land of many waters, I have often been a guest in canoes, speed boats, small engine boats and ferries. It often gets easier at every boat experience, but my recent experience on the river of 100 turns is one that drowned all progress I’ve made.

I was preparing for my maiden journey to the Barima-Waini Sub Region of Moruca (Region One) and after being told I was going by boat, I had no idea what route the journey was taking, so my suspense reached the level of my love for adventure. I was then told that the water excursion would include a sojourn on the Pomeroon River, then the Atlantic Ocean then the Moruca River; it was my first on all three bodies of water.

The smooth sailing on the Pomeroon River relaxed my mind a bit, and I took the opportunity to admire the beautiful coconut edifices made of discarded coconut shells located in proximity to coconut plantations. The many villages of the Pomeroon made me realise how blessed our native land is, filled with a different ambiance in every region. The peaceful touch to the villages which was reflected in the eyes of the little children taking a splash in the cool water while their mothers do the laundry on their river landings, was indeed The breathtaking Savannahs of Santa Rosa

a soother from the heat of the sun. Their welcoming wave reflected the words of our motto: “One people, One Nation, One Destiny.”

Despite it was new territory to me, I already knew that we had ended our sojourn on the Pomeroon River as the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean was wide open as a hungry lion snatching at its prey. The smooth sail was now over and the angry waves of the ocean, a taste of the salty water and the sight of an open sea made me a little nervous. I have never traversed an open sea before as sighted shores always played comfort to me when my mind wandered to the eventuality of a tragedy. As the boat battled with the rough waves, I hardly even had time to think of a tragedy, but was only counting the seconds for the ordeal to end. Everyone else seemed relaxed and so I tried to blend in, but the steady beats of my heart, coupled with my short breathing and cold sweat sold me out.

Before long I spotted the mouth of the Moruca River, a narrow 10- mile stretch of water way almost hidden between light vegetation; mostly bamboos and mangrove trees. It was a cool encounter, almost as if we were in a cave. After a few turns and the captain’s swift response, thus putting the small boat in an upheaval, I became a little nauseated but more fearful when I heard that there were 100 turns and so we had approximately 90- plus more to go. The Moruca River is by far the most meandering river I have experienced. Not only is it supper curvaceous, but very shallow and narrow and while the captains’ long years of traversing it may allow for a little complacency with speed, some points are so shallow and the swamp-like mangroves and other vegetation are actually growing across, so the need to slow down while encountering

A Fisherman catches a big catch of Houri on the Moruca River

these is a must and then the engine picks up speed again. It was like a roller- coaster on water, the bow of the boat was almost in a vertical position and while the beautiful scenery became more evident, I tried to take my mind off the winding and focus on the area.

The cluster of small riverine villages such as Kwebanna, Waramuri, Kamwatta and Manawarin had now taken my attention, but nothing was more picturesque than the savannahs bracing the river bed on the right. The beauty of the vast greenery of land pitching across the horizon could not have been contained in the lens of my camera and the beautiful red and white birds accessorising it with the mist of the hills creating a wall-to-wall carpet across seemed to be such a blessing of nature. It was a mixture of solitude and therapy itself.

After about 45 minutes on the Moruca River, the boat finally stopped at the beach of Acqueiro, a small satellite community in Santa Rosa, approximately two minutes boat ride from Kumaka, the administrative centre of Moruca. Despite there was about 50 more turns to go up the river until reaching close to the Venezuela border according to one resident, I felt like I had experienced the entire 100. Upon exiting the boat, I gazed at the savannahs, its awe, magnificence and beauty made the words of the national song come to life, “Oh Beautiful Guyana, Oh my lovely native land.” The land of many waters in indeed a land to behold, a land to experience and a land to love!

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

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‘Confidence becomes you’ – The making of a successful businesswoman IN a bid to create a more vibrant business atmosphere here, the Sonia Noel Foundation has engaged a group of women in a programme titled, “Confidence becomes You”, transferring skills which they can use to take personal and professional practices, with poise, to greater levels.

According to a press statement from President and Founder Dr. Sonia Noel, the organisation recognises personal development as a lifelong process, and offers the confidence-building programme for the assessment of personal and professional skills and qualities, pressing towards the accomplishment of goals to realise and maximise potential.

The women are being prepared in areas of understanding the foundation of their core message, effective taglines, effective networking tips, unique serving proposition, time management, and how to be more effective at Radio and TV interviews.

Noel, through the statement, quotes programme participant, Simone Forde as saying: “It has shifted my mindset for the better, and my business will be going to the next level because of the changes that will be made.”

As coordinator of the programme, Noel says that in growing professionally, it is important to instill in participants business management and leadership techniques which add value to their lives and work.

“If we truly desire to grow, it is essential to add value to ourselves? And it was great to listen to the testimonies from participants on the effects these sessions had on them and business,” she said.

The agency has also selected several young women and men to form part an empowering youth movement to bring about innovative and massive change and growth. The group is currently participating in a training seminar

on leadership, using as its main resource the handbook titled ‘The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership’ by John Maxwell.

After the first session of study, Noel said, “These young leaders are determined to contribute positively towards the development of our country… Before our evening session was over, persons were recognising the value of these laws, if applied.”

One of the youths, Guyana Fashion Week (GFW) Model Image winner, Kenny Hercules, said that by participating in that session of the programme, he has been able to recognise his purpose.

Sonia Noel with some of the participants in the ‘Confidence becomes you’ programme

“This training has helped me to find my purpose in life, and I am ready to go after my dreams, no matter what. It is our responsibility for the future generation to be better than us,” Hercules said.

The programme introduces personal and professional practice for prosperous pursuits, and has also been extended to schools.

Those interested in learning the art of fashion can also have the rare opportunity of being trained by renowned international fashion designer, Steven Cutting and other prominent facilitators during an extension of the programme at the Business School.

Cutting, of Steven A. Cutting Inc., is a former head-designer for international pop star, Beyoncé Knowles, and has several other credentials to his name.

This part of the programme is a collaborative effort between the Business School and Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts for Fashion Designing and Etiquette. Interested persons are asked to make reservation by contacting the Business School in Georgetown.

“Steven Cutting, who is a professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and former head designer for Beyoncé’s clothing line, will be a virtual guest facilitator at one of the fashion design classes,” Noel said.

A New Yorker by birth, Cutting earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from FIT in 1983, and worked with the design firm, Enrico Masei of Seventh Avenue, and the Italian, Anna Schpioni.

He also worked extensively with fashion companies in Italy and Germany, designing for Krizia and Chiwitt before returning to the United States to head Philippe Monet Designs. He later founded his own company, Steven A. Cutting, Inc., whose clientele included Kenneth Cole, Reebok, Collage, and Pony. In 1996, Cutting became head designer for Perry Ellis America, then, years after, joined First Manufacturing Company as design director for Jimmy and Marylou and the Whet Blue Collections.

Cutting has also worked with Larry Levine and Boston Outfitters labels, and with the House of Dereon owned by Beyoncé and Tina Knowles. He has also established his own design label, Katalyst.

Cutting was later employed at the Fashion Art Department of the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2001, and in 2003, became president of the Fashion & Arts Xchange, a networking organisation for people of colour in fashion and the arts.

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The Magic of Mrs Baksh’s Beautiful Daughter

By Hubert Williams

MRS Baksh’s daughter Shakira was a pretty little girl with no knowledge of the world, no appreciation of political niceties, no understanding of protocolary; but was destined for world adulation and greatness. Today, she is now Shakira, Lady Caine, wife of Sir Michael Caine, Academy Award-winning British actor, author and well-known member of the English gentry.

When Mrs Baksh decided that “my daughter is special”, and dressed her up for all the world to see and entered her in the Miss Guyana beauty contest of 1967, the judges were astounded, not merely by the young lady’s innocence,

intelligence and physical beauty, but also by the remarkable creation of the gown which her mother had made for her. Shakira won the local pageant hands down, and went on to represent Guyana at the Miss World Contest in London. There, she was adjudged the third prettiest girl in the world, decided not to return home, became a sought-after model and actress, hobnobbed with high society and won the heart of one of the most admired actors of that age - Briton, Michael Caine.

Upon seeing her, he said that no other woman in the world looked quite like her. They have since had a wonderful life together. They have one daughter, Natasha.

For some time Shakira had continued a career in the public eye modeling, act-

ing, and being Mrs. Caine, (and later, Lady Caine, after the Queen of England Knighted her husband) and they have become one of the enduring couples in the ‘meet, mate and break-up’ environment of show business.

Shakira Baksh had wowed Guyana and the world with her striking beauty and intelligence, aligned to the skill of her dress-maker mom, but few of her admirers know much about her before she first trod onto the magical arena of fashion and pageantry.

I first met a teenaged Shakira at the headquarters of the Government Information Services (GIS) on Brickdam Avenue, Georgetown. I had been introduced to her by Guyanese diplomat Lloyd Searwar. It was her first job. Soon after, however, she was peremptorily dismissed after committing a fatal, but honest error.

The Prime Minister of the country had entered the office, and the young, unexposed girl from a humble household had committed a cardinal sin: when everyone else in the office stood, she remained seated, because she did not know the protocol, and her sedentary state was considered an infraction. That might well

have been the reason for her disappearance from the GIS, and perhaps the strongest factor for placement in her successor job. With the odds being unlikely for her to get a job anywhere in the public service, she instead landed a job at the United States Embassy.

Shakira worked there for a time, before high drama again encircled her. Political terror was a factor of daily life in the “Guyana” of those times; and one day, the US Embassy on Main Street, Georgetown, was bombed; and, yes, Mrs Baksh’s beautiful daughter was right in the middle of it.

Out of this near tragedy emerged one of the truly unforgettable photographs of Guyanese journalism, when then Chronicle reporter Oscar Edwards rushed into the bombed building and emerged bearing a stunned and terrified Shakira Baksh across his arms; a moment that was splashed across the paper’s front page next day.

Shakira recovered, of course, and went on to do great things in a world of beauty, poise and glitter - making Guyana very proud and Sir Michael Caine very happy.

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The Independent Traveler in Guyana Pt. 2

Delving further into the unknown our eye at the Lethem airfield and persuaded us to stay at his place -- with promises of good WiFi and iguana curry. In order to get the feel for the place, we took a walk along the flat and dusty roads peppered with Chinese retail warehouses. I could see the appeal of Lethem to Brazilians from Boa Vista, who can now drive over the new bridge from Bonfim, across the border, to buy cheap consumer goods. But we had no room in our backpacks for fake handbags, electrical goods or souvenirs. We wondered what else there was to do. Orlando's mate Craig said he would take

By Kerry Nicholas

WE continue this week with Part Two of the series as British Tourists Kerry and David Nicholas explore Guyana on their own, discovering, as they go along, Guyana’s unique and fascinating culture.

It had taken us a week to plan an independent journey to the interior that would probably have taken an hour through a travel agent. We had to leave out destinations like Karanambu Lodge, where world-renowned giant otter expert Diane McTurk, had an otter sanctuary, simply because it was too expensive for us, or too difficult for the Lodge to pick us up from the Lethem road.

Our next big mistake was that we wanted to save four percent by paying for our flights in cash. We were assured we could pay for the flight to Lethem in cash at the airport, but we found ourselves bumped off by people

who paid by card. A nail-biting wait at Ogle airport ensued. We counted each of the dozen passengers as they checked in and half an hour before the flight was due to leave, we were rewarded when two people didn't show.

We were off! Soaring above Georgetown, we marvelled at the neat grid system of the city's roads. London is a swirling mass of intertwining streets laid out haphazardly since medieval times. Georgetown reminded me of New York without the skyscrapers. I marvelled at the majesty of the Demerara and Essequibo rivers as they wound their way through the broccoli forests of the South Pakaraima in Region Eight and North Rupununi districts in Region Nine. We saw the scars in the forest from the mines and the logging.

Even the smallest bonfire could be seen miles ahead as it wafted thin ribbons of smoke high into the sky.

Orlando from the Amazonas Hotel caught

us to Kumu Falls which were beautiful, but he was no tour guide and we got lost on the way. Then his four-wheel drive got stuck in the mud. Orlando had to come and rescue us.

We had seriously considered hiring a four-wheel vehicle to get to Iwokrama Lodge.

I would have to drive because David doesn't have a left foot for gear-changes. I imagined the freedom that having our own car would give us and as there was only one road, we didn’t think we could get lost. What's more, Turn to page XXI ►►►

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“Our Oceans, Our Future”

Around the world, people have been celebrating World Environment Day, encouraged by the theme to connect with nature. An important feature of the natural environment that is sometimes overlooked or abused, is our oceans. According to the UN Secretary, the preservation of oceans is a core element of development and security internationally. World Oceans Day is celebrated annually on June 8 to raise awareness on this fact. Oceans help to sustain life on earth, being the largest source of oxygen we breathe. They are also the largest carbon sink, continually removing dangerous carbon dioxide that could potentially exacerbate climate change. Ocean services support many economies worldwide, serving as a basis for tourism, agriculture, transportation. They are thus closely linked to people and their livelihoods.

Guyana is bordered by the beautiful Atlantic Ocean on its northeastern coast, supporting the fishing industry which is key to the agricultural sector. Unfortunately, human activities are a major threat to this and the other oceans of the world. These threats include overexploitation, illegal and unsustainable fishing practices, marine pollution and habitat destruction, alien species, climate change and ocean acidification. It is no surprise therefore that the ocean protection is a part of the Sustainable Development Goals.

SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas

and marine resources This year’s celebrations is centered on taking action against plastic pollution and cleaning the ocean of marine litter. Pollution of our oceans begins with a single person disposing of their litter improperly. Even tiny items like cigarette butts dropped on the ground may make their way to the shores of another continent and can take several years to biodegrade. Even when litter biodegrade dangerous chemicals can be released into the water becoming dangerous for humans and other organisms.

Plastic litter is especially problematic in our oceans because they typically take hundreds of year to decompose. Some animals mistakenly ingest plastic and other debris which can release toxins in their bodies causing death.

Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, states that “Business-as-usual is not enough to deliver the future we want by 2030. Achieving SDG14 calls for new science-based solutions and their transformation into informed policies and decisions…World Oceans Day is an opportunity for all of us to take measure of the global sustainable development challenges we face and to unite for the ocean we need for the future we want.”

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@ gmail.com.

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017 ◄◄◄ From page XIX

Guyanese drive on the left, don't they? Just like in England.

There were no hire cars in Lethem. We found a willing driver with a comfortable 4x4 and set off.

After seeing how easily Craig got stuck in the mud, I was glad he was at the wheel but was amazed to see he drove not on the left, but all over the road in an effort to avoid the potholes, ridges, furrows and rocks.

The road had no true shape. It narrowed then widened then sloped, as red stones slid across the dusty surface. Our driver didn't seem at all surprised when, 15 minutes into the journey, we saw a Jeep upside down in the bush with its passengers squeezing from a flattened roof through its smashed windows.

I was amazed to see them emerge, bruised and shaken, but otherwise okay.

Of course, we stopped to help. I learned that all Rupununi residents look out for each other on these roads. Only three other vehicles came by on this treacherous stretch, but they all pulled up to offer assistance. A true outback spirit!

The men worked in unison to turn the huge car back over and tow it back on the road. Cheerful farewells and we were on our way again. "Oh, it happens all the time," our driver said offhandedly.

We travelled through Region Nine, passing the majestic purple Kanuku Mountains and into the savannah and rainforests and Amerindian villages of the North Rupununi District.

We got to the Surama Eco-Lodge before dusk and were welcomed by Jacquie Allicock, daughter of Mr. Sydney Allicock, Guyana's Minister of Indigenous People's Affairs. She acknowledged that we were not on a tour, had a tight budget and did not have an itinerary and she and her team still made us feel like very treasured guests.

The Makushi are a Savannah people living close to primary rainforest, palm swamps, oxbow lakes and meandering rivers. Industry is absent. Cattle dot the grasslands.

Jacquie explained that "progress" and "development" have threatened to inundate the Rupununi and wreck the equilibrium. We got the idea that gold mining, oil extraction and large-scale agriculture threaten the rich bio-diversity of the area. The Rupununi is home to 1400 species of vertebrates and 643 species of birds. Extreme care is needed to minimise the impact of extracting these natural resources.

The decision to build Surama Lodge specifically for tourists is a positive community initiative. Each village is led by a Toshao, but all important decisions are taken at the community level. Surama Lodge is a well-organised and commendable attempt to encourage sustainable ecotourism as an alternative source of income for the 30 or so village communities in the region.

Our guide, Milner, took us for a walk before dinner through the rainforest and we marvelled at the nine-inch-long millipede, the huge caterpillars, toucans and capuchin monkeys and the sound of numerous other animals and birds settling in at dusk. We chose to sleep in swaying hammocks set up in the deserted bar area above the dining room with exhilarating views across the savannah to the Pakaraima Mountains. As I fell asleep, I got a sense of why it was so important to preserve one of the last great wildernesses in the world.

Part of the ecotourism project is to encourage tourists to visit the nearby primary school. The information foreigners share with the children gives them a wider perspective of

the world. I went in with all good intentions es more affordable to allow more independent of telling the children about the four distinct travel and organised tours from abroad. seasons we get in England: spring, summer, We dreaded the minibus back to autumn and winter. But all they really wanted to know about was David's false leg. He gladly obliged the elder class by sitting down and removing it. In an instant, every class had abandoned their section and crowded round to watch as well. The teachers took photos and the boys called David "Bionic Man" and "Superman." They had never seen a leg that ended below the knee before, nor a prosthesis.

We realised that this was the same in Georgetown. People we saw without a leg, used only cumbersome crutches to get around, whilst David could walk normally. What a difference a National Health Service makes to the lives of poor people in the UK. Here we were, travelling around South America without a care when other people find the loss of a leg can ruin their lives completely.

Next stop was the protected Iwokrama forest. We stopped at the Atta Lodge -- once just a hammock stop -- now an upmarket rainforest lodge next to an aging yet magical canopy walkway made of creaking metal and rope. One of the main supporting trees had fallen in a storm taking a section of the rope bridge with it, but one of the 10-metre-high platforms allowed us to see spider monkeys feeding and playing in the trees at dusk.

We arrived at the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development just in time for dinner at 20:00hrs.

The Centre was established following an idea born out of the 1989 Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting. This flagship environmental project is the first in the world to find ways to develop tropical forests to reflect the needs of the forest itself, as well as the people who live in them and provide a balanced commercial approach to business, which properly serves the local people in the medium and long term. Sadly, rainforest degradation continues hardly unabated and the role of Iwokrama remains crucial to determine whether controlled deforestation actually works.

We were happy to be a part of that push towards ecotourism, and even in a small way, it felt good to pay for rainforest walks or boat trips to see the rapids and the 5,000-year-old petroglyphs, or to stay at the lodge knowing that we are helping to support the local community. But the place was virtually empty, and it could be so much busier if the roads were better, transport more frequent and pric-

XXI Georgetown. But that’s what you get for economising. We had to be up at 04.30hrs to get one of the several buses, all crossing the Essequibo River at the same time –06:00hrs. I sat above the axle next to a huge and talkative Angelique who had seven bags of shopping at her feet, which meant she had to stretch her legs over mine. On my left side was a large lad who slept on my shoulder with his legs apart. Angelique talked at us the whole way through slurping fingers as she ate a bewildering collection of pungent food from polystyrene boxes. We all had to get out of the minibus twice to push the van out of the sand and the driver's eyes got more staring and his temper more flared as his lack of sleep battled with the intense concentration needed to speed along the pot-holed road for nine hours.

I was thrilled when Angelique and her shopping got off at Linden. The scent of sticky chicken lingered in the upholstery. I slid into her vacant seat.

Once the driver hit the tarmac road he turned into a madman on the highway. So I closed my eyes and somehow we made it back to Georgetown.

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Constable Akeem Holder saved the day

By Michel Outridge

CONSTABLE Akeem Holder defied the odds and braved thick smoke and fire, allegedly set deliberately by inmates of the Juvenile Holding Centre, so he could extinguish the blaze in an effort to save youths housed there on Monday night.

For him, it was part of his duties to safeguard the juveniles housed at the Lot 2 Dennis Street, Sophia facility, which he managed to do, single-handedly, even before the fire tenders could arrive on the scene.

Constable Holder also rose to the occasion by getting all the inmates to safety and those affected by the smoke were rushed for medical attention at the earliest.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that at the time he did what he could and thought nothing of it because his aim was to get everyone to safety and to prevent the fire from spreading to other sections of the building.

This alert and unarmed cop was stationed at the Juvenile Holding Centre on Monday

night when a fire, believed to be set by a few inmates, quickly ignited in the catwalk area outside the cells which resulted in a plume of smoke.

Constable Holder realised what was happening and he acted very quickly to get the situation under control, averting a major disaster.

The constable said he was sitting when he smelled something burning (like sponge) and got up and turned off the main switch (fuse) at the centre and then threw water on the conflagration.

He explained that about five minutes before, a few inmates had asked him to give them some water and he granted their request and several minutes after, he smelled something burning.

The fire was put out in three minutes and about five minutes after fire tenders arrived at the scene.

Holder said he then alerted officials and his superiors before going to talk to the inmates and he made sure they were not hurt

Brave cop: Constable Akeem Holder

in anyway.

The policeman has been posted at the location for the past two years and he is aware of the behaviour pattern of juveniles housed there.

Holder explained that ranks stationed there operate on a shift system and provide security for inmates.

On the very night of the incident, his

efforts were recognised by one Martin Gaul who complimented him in a Facebook post.

Following the post, dozens of others joined, congratulating him for his bravery and suggest that he be promoted.

An investigation has since been launched into the circumstances which led to a fire at the centre on Monday night, about 18:00hrs.

It was alleged that two juveniles lit a mattress in the catwalk area on the lower flat of the facility resulting in three males being rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital to receive treatment for smoke inhalation. The three were treated and sent away.

Police said alert ranks on duty, responding to the smell of smoke emanating from the catwalk area, quickly extinguished the blaze.

No major damage was done to the facility. Housed in the compound of the Sophia Training School, the Juvenile Holding Centre was commissioned in 2011 at a cost of $37.6M to provide for the detention of juveniles who are held pending charge, or are on remand.

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Sangeeta Bahadur is an all-Guyanese girl!

THOUGH Canadian by birth, Sangeeta Bahadur exudes a strong sense of allegiance to Guyana and its culture, even more than what you might find among some Guyanese who were born and bred right here.

Sangeeta became a household name after she was crowned Miss India Guyana 2017 a few weeks ago. Taking part in the pageant was a particular challenge for Sangeeta, who had to be in constant communication with the team in Guyana, preparing even while she was still in Canada.

But for Sangeeta, it was all worth it, because nothing made her happier than to be able to represent Guyana on the world stage.

“To know that when you work hard for something and you persevere, when you succeed it’s one of the greatest feelings; it’s phenomenal! I think a great many of us have that strong Guyanese pride, regardless

Sangeeta with Miss India Worldwide 2016 winner, Karina Kohli, after winning Miss India Guyana 2017

of if we live in the country or not and to be representing Guyana is a huge honour and responsibility that I am extremely proud and happy to have been given the opportunity to do,” Sangeeta gushed.

Though never setting foot on Guyanese soil until she was 11-years- old, while in Canada Sangeeta was surrounded by her Guyanese family, and finally coming to Guyana was just a while of being able to experience the culture where it all started. “[Guyanese] food, customs, traditions, and culture have been ingrained in me since birth. I always had extremely strong ties to Guyana and a sense of pride being of Guyanese heritage, even long before having the opportunity to travel to Guyana for the first time. Being brought up in Canada alongside my Guyanese customs allowed me to have a great blend of the two cultures,” Sangeeta shared.

Sangeeta’s mom is from the West Coast of Demerara, while her dad is from the ancient county of Berbice. Sangeeta is Guyanese by naturalisation.

“Since the first time I was in Guyana I loved absolutely everything about being in the country – just the feeling that you are surrounded 100 percent by your Guyanese people was a wonderful feeling and still is every time I am back in Guyana,” Sangeeta said.

But it’s not just her Guyanese culture that Bahadur is head over heels in love with: the 25- year- old is very passionate about her Indian culture. Hearing this young lady speak about her love for Indian arts just gives the sense that the Miss India- Guyana Organisation (MIGO) truly has snagged the prefect queen.

“I’m truly and happily satisfied with the panel of judges’ decision,” said MIGO Director, Uma Bux. “She is befitting of the title in all aspects of the brand. From the first time I interviewed her as a finalist, I was astonished

and very impressed.”

Though currently in Canada, Sangeeta spent a while in Guyana after winning the crown on May 19. It was then that Uma really got to know a bit more about the beautiful queen.

“We connected instantaneously. The first time I spent some quality girl time with her was on our trip to Arrowpoint. After getting to know her through that, I must admit she’s an amazing, mature, well-grounded, beautiful young woman. She’s very pleasant to work with, and thus far, very respectable and cooperating,” Uma related.

Uma is particularly grateful to land Sangeeta, after the saga that ended with last year’s queen being dethroned for misconduct.

Uma describes Sangeeta as “a rare find in beauty queens.”

Sangeeta is a seasoned Bharatanatyam dancer. Bharatanatyam is the dance form used Turn to page XXXIII ►►►

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Government creating an enabling environment for robust business development Business development in any country is critical to the advancement of the economy and ultimately the development of the people; hence, placing emphasis on this sector is a top priority of this Government.

Government has its work cut out for it, since it inherited a system rife with corruption and red tape, which lacked mechanisms to allow for robust business development. The Ministry of Business is working steadily to ensure the development of an enabling environment for investment and entrepreneurship.

DIASPORA INVOLVEMENT President David Granger during his visit to London, United Kingdom in April, 2017 said that the Diaspora can play a role in the transformation of the country’s economy and expressed confidence that with the Constitutional and institutional integrity that the Government of Guyana is establishing, the country will continue to attract the attention of the Western World.

He noted that “Oil and Gas hold prospects, no doubt people would want to capitalise on that bonanza, it is a huge find…but in the meantime we have to ensure that our economy is transformed in a way that can guarantee sustainable livelihood for us and make Guyana proud…make Guyana great again.” The Guyanese economy, President Granger said cannot remain mired in the past, calling on members of the Diaspora to contribute to the development of Guyana by sharing their knowledge of innovative production techniques that can be used to develop the manufacturing industry.

In a recent follow up visit to London, Minister of Business, Mr. Dominic Gaskin, delivering remarks at an event in celebration of Guyana’s 51st Independence Anniversary at the High Commission of Guyana in London, acknowledged that Guyanese who live in the United Kingdom and elsewhere have a lot to offer Guyana. He disclosed that the Government

President David Granger addressing members of the Guyanese Diaspora in London, United Kingdom

is in the process of developing a Diaspora Engagement Strategy that will ensure communication is maintained and that members of the Diaspora are given the opportunity to contribute to the country’s development. “There is a tremendous amount of talent, experience, resources that reside outside of Guyana that is interested with Guyana…we are constantly reminded that there is this group of Guyanese, that certainly feels this strong connection to Guyana and as a Government we feel that we harness what is there and that we find a way,

some mechanism to allow the Guyanese Diaspora to make a contribution to Guyana’s development,” the Business Minister said.

Having succeeded at democratically removing a Government that had been in office for over two decades, Guyanese at home and abroad had very high expectations of the Coalition Administration and this, Minister Gaskin said pose several challenges. “There are some challenges in dealing with the Diaspora; it is such a large group…it is not a community that is organized in a way that allows anyone to easily identify who are the representatives, who is it that speaks for the Diaspora, “he said. Focusing on the challenges the Government has inherited such as poverty, poor health care and education, inequality and lack of certain public services, the Business Minister assured that these are not insurmountable and can be fixed with all hands on deck. He told the London Diaspora “we have a chance to change this now and to transform our country into one that is ready to do business with the rest of the world, including the Diaspora.

It is important to understand that Guyana has a free market economy where wealth is generated by private enterprise and not the Government, the role of the Government is to facilitate and to regulate trade and investment.”

Crime, while it is still a problem, the Business Minister said it is no worse than it was a few years ago, however he pointed to the numerous arrests that have and are still being made by the Guyana Police Force. He said that statistics have shown that crime in Guyana is on a downward trajectory.

Inspite of these and other challenges, the economy continues to grow, recording 3.3 percent growth for 2016. The Business Minister described this as “impressive” when compared to other countries in the region. The economic growth was attributed to the strong performance of the gold mining sector. “Both rice and sugar production were down by 20 percent, bauxite earnings reduced by about 10 percent, timber earnings reduced by about 6 percent, that’s not particularly good news, we can’t dress it up, some of our sectors are not performing,” the Minister disclosed.

Value-added production President Granger, while in London pointed out that Guyana’s economy over the past 350 years has been dependent on a few commodities and highlighted the importance of moving towards manufacturing. For too long, the President said, Guyana has been largely dependent on primary products. He posited that “unless we become a manufacturing country, unless we move our economy forward, we’ll always remain poor and we have to work together … we can’t continue to rely on the six sisters…we cannot have our economy held to ransom by international commodity markets, we have to find a way to turn our natural wealth into sustainable growth.”

There is a lot of work to

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be done, the Head of State noted but with the that it has made a tremendous impact on the lives “new mood” of democracy and confidence from of just under two thousand youths in 112 comthe country’s regional colleagues, along with munities in several regions. The first phase of collaborative efforts by all stakeholders and the this programme was brought to an end this year Government of Guyana, greater investment would and according to Mr. Greenidge quite a number be attracted. Generating energy from hydropower, of young people have been expressing gratitude solar power, wind power and bio-mass is just for being involved in this programme, with many another way of the country adding value to its starting their own businesses. Zoning in on reproducts and generating wealth, the President gions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10, the Project Coordinator explained. “There are a hundred sites in Guyana said some 267 youths out of 306 have started their which are capable of generating hydroelectricity, own businesses in the year that they have been a the Rupununi Savannahs, sometimes you have part of the HEYS project. an average of 12 hours of sunlight per day to He disclosed that “Regions 7, 8 and 9 young generate solar polar, the wind along the coastland, people have started businesses…groups have 460km of coastland …we can do it if we apply formed small coops, that’s the HEYS class and innovative techniques,” he said. they have gone into pig rearing, they have gone Echoing similar sentiments as the Minister of into poultry production, they have gone into Members of the Guyanese Diaspora in London, United Kingdom Business, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana vegetable production and that is being channeled Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Mr. Owen into school feeding programmes in those comensuring that what we as Guyanese who live here today would Verwey said that Guyana is one of the most under-discovered have inherited, is passed down to future generations.” munities.” markets for investments and is known as a commodity proEntrepreneurs often embark on business ventures by Meanwhile, the GO-Invest CEO said that the process to ducer for many years with limited value-added production. set up a business in Guyana is relatively simple and does not necessity. Every barbershop, ‘sweety’ stand, food shop and However, this is a major area for investment potential, par- stray far from what is done in any other jurisdiction. He said other similar small businesses where proprietors have chosen ticularly in agriculture since the primary products are already that once procedure is followed doing business here is hassle to operate as sole traders marks a small or micro business available in Guyana, with room for further growth as the free. Key changes have been made to the application process that has the potential to grow into a thriving entity. Mr. country possesses vast lands for the production of a variety and the confidentiality arrangement for documents submitted Greenidge said that for many of them, there is now a sense of crops. He said that “beyond Agriculture we have natural to GO-Invest to promote trust among the investors. The CEO of excitement because the HEYS programme legitimises their resources, again the Forestry Sector, I am happy that we are said the time taken to process documentation has also been operations and gives them the chance to see it as something moving beyond logs into the value-added timber products, improved. that can provide a sustainable livelihood for them and their we have tremendous potential which is there to be realised Detailed information on the process of starting a business families. “We have got internet now being started, coming out in doing that.” in Guyana for both local and external agencies is found on of HEYS, we have got individuals providing other services Similarly, in the gold industry, Mr. Verwey said Guyana GO-Invest’s website, www.goinvest.gov.gy. The registration for the distribution of fuel, we’ve got cattle rearing, we’ve has produced and exported the raw gold for many years form is available in PDF format on the site along with the list got small ruminants production, we’ve got eco-tourism probut much of it, when exported is used for the production of of requirements. According to Mr. Verwey, “we interface grammes …Region Two, Akawini those areas are becoming jewelry which is sold for four times or more the cost of the with the Environmental Protection Agency, the Guyana popular now with the eco-tourism drive coming out of the actual gold that is exported. He sees this as an opportunity for Revenue Authority, even the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HEYS programme,” Mr. Greenidge pointed out. Some two investors to move up the value chain by producing and export- in some cases and the Department of Immigration to assist thousand youths in 100 new communities would be targeted ing gold jewelry and other ornaments that can be sold on the some of those with temporary work visas for entry and exit in the second cohort, which is expected to commence in just international market at great costs. “Guyana is one of those in and out of Guyana.” In addition, GO-Invest has sought to less than four weeks. few locations where the opportunities exist but it is for the ensure a level playing field for all investors by implementing The development of an economically sustainable couninvestors to identify some of them; if you are in specific fields a self-compliance form for those who have received incentives try has been the focus of this Administration and it has you can identify some of those activities that are there. As you from the company. set out to create an enabling environment for investors know, for Guyana an and small and large business owners. Through the impleinvestor can bring an mentation of several projects the Government of Guyana ENTREPRENEURSHIP unlimited amount of In addition to creating the enabling environment for continues to promote entrepreneurship, which would money into Guyana investments and large scale businesses, the Ministry of Busi- aid in the creation of employment and to a larger extent, we have no foreign bolster the economy. ness also collaborates with the exchange controls Small Business Bureau (SBB) for monies coming and the New Guyana Marketin or going out, the ing Corporation (NEW GMC) only requirements in facilitating workshops for you would find are small businesses and entrethose regulatory obpreneurs (including farmers), ligations that you which provide information would find in any on how they can improve in economy to move the areas of agro-processing large amounts of and also works along with the money in and out,” Ministry of Agriculture to aid Mr. Verwey noted. in the development of the local Coordinator of the Hinterland and

EASE OF DOING Youth Service (HEYS) Programme, Mr. Murray Greenidge BUSINESS In keeping with the Government’s vision of creating an enabling environment for business, Minister Gaskin said that throughout 2017 the Ministry of Business will provide support and facilitate the execution of critical reforms in areas identified in various reports and assessments of Guyana. To significantly improve the ease of doing business in Guyana as well as to improve Guyana’s ranking in the ‘Doing Business Index’, Mr. Gaskin said the expectation is that these reforms will last well into 2018 and will thereafter be constantly reviewed to maintain the gains that Guyana will have to achieve.

The Single Window processing system which will automate the processes of a number of government agencies involved in trade facilitation and make them more efficient and less prone to interference, is one area of intervention that is expected to transform trade transactions in Guyana. This would be followed by the deployment of the Guyana Revenue Authority’s Automated System for Customs Data System with which it will have to be integrated. Minister Gaskin said that his Ministry has sought the assistance of the World Bank and is working on an action plan that will improve the ease of doing business in Guyana.

He said that “we are on the cusp of a major economic transformation which is expected to provide opportunities for the socio-economic advancement of our people, this is not a fairytale it is what has to happen if we are serious about the development of our country…we are equally serious about

agro-processing sector. The Government of Guyana has pushed entrepreneurship as the key toward generating wealth and ensuring that people are able to provide an income for themselves using skills and resources that are available around them.

Government’s push towards entrepreneurship can be seen in the establishment of initiatives such as the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) Initiative; the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) Programme; and the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN).

These programmes, since their establishment, have sought to equip young people with the requisite skills, knowledge and finance needed to become entrepreneurs.

Coordinator of the Hinterland and Youth Service (HEYS) Programme, Mr. Murray Greenidge providing an update on the programme said

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

The right toothbrush and floss THERE ARE more theories and styles of toothbrushes to choose from than even a professional could deal with. I visited a WalMart supermarket in Manhattan, New York recently and counted 22 different types and brands of toothbrushes. People always ask me which toothbrush and method I advocate. Quite simply, I recommend whatever keeps your teeth clean.

There is really not a lot of mystery to this process. You know that your teeth are clean when they feel nice and glassy smooth as you run your tongue against them. But technically, you can confirm clean teeth with plaque disclosing tablets which are sold in my clinic for $25 each. Just be careful to use a soft enough brush so that you do not erode the teeth or mechanically abrade the gums.

For many years I have been recommending The Rule of Thoroughness. And again I will emphasize it. The principle and theory is that the important consideration is how thorough you brush and not how often. So, based on this tenet, it is necessary to brush your teeth only once a day. The Rule of Thoroughness states, “The total time spent cleaning the mouth (brushing the teeth, gums and tongue as well as flossing), during 24 hours must be equal to the amount of natural teeth in minutes. For example, if a person has 20 teeth they should spend at least 20 minutes every day brushing, flossing etc.”

As far as electric toothbrushes are concerned, I find they

are more efficient than many make them out to be. In fact, I personally use one which also flosses. These brushes are not abrasive and I have never noticed patients who use them to have erosion of their tooth structure. The electric toothbrush I would not hesitate to recommend is the Jetpik. I find it to be the most effective plaque remover with the least amount of mechanical trauma. It has a built- in safety mechanism that limits the amount of pressure you can apply – if you press too hard, it stops.

Notwithstanding, be careful with using a non-ADA approved electric toothbrush if you have mercury amalgam fillings. By mechanically stimulating the surface of the amalgams you increase the amount of vapor released into the oral cavity.

I recently had a patient come in because after he began Turn to page XXX ►►►

XXVII

XXVIII I started the month with phenomenal young men and women from all walks of life but who have one thing in common: they all want to do more to contribute in a positive way to their communities and country, once given the opportunity. We spent two evenings chatting about where we are now and where we want to go. What I enjoyed the most is how people sensed it was a safe place and felt comfortable to share intimate life stories. We began study-

ing The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership

by John Maxwell, who also happens to be my mentor. From just reviewing the workbook information, persons were recognising the value of the application of these laws. They were identifying the changes they need to make to their personal and professional lives in order to increase their leadership potential.

I was looking at them with great admiration as each had a law to teach. I remem-

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

bered the words of Maxwell himself, who said, “Growth is the great separator between those who succeed and those who do not. When I see a person beginning to separate themselves from the pack, it’s almost always due to personal growth.”

The next day, I spent some time at the Business School with some younger men and women who were absolutely stunning and bright, but a little shy. I embarked on a Beyond the Runway school tour earlier this year and it was an honour to introduce ‘Confidence Becomes you!

Personal practice for prosperous pursuits’, to the children at the Business School.

It is always a great feeling when not only the children share how the information impacted them tremendously but the teachers also. I en... Inspiring lives through fashion couraged the children to be passionate. The Business should aspire to give the world the best verSchool is collaborating with the Sonia Noel sion of ourselves and we discussed that today.

Foundation for Creative Arts for Fashion Confidence becomes you! was also exDesigning and Etiquette summer courses. If tended to adults. Participants range from from you want to make your summer exciting and business women to persons desirous of startare interested, contact The Business School Turn to page XXXI ►►► because spaces are limited. Every day, we

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

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Bringing people together Former MP still active in promoting social cohesion and development in Region Two

By Elroy Stephney FORMER Member of Parliament (MP), Ishak Basir, remains very active in promoting the ideals of racial unity and community development among the various villages in Region Two. Basir was awarded the Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH) in 1996 for his exemplary service in Politics and Social Work.

The veteran People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) politician has been instrumental in acquiring and delivering newspapers, particularly to the Pomeroon districts. In an invited comment with the Guyana Chronicle, he stated that the Amerindian villages seldom have access to relevant and timely information with regard to news, locally and internationally. As such, he has undertaken to collect used newspapers from various government and public offices and send them to residents residing in both the upper

and lower Pomeroon River. He indicated that many of his pursuits to seek progress and development within the Region are being done at his personal cost. However, he is proud to be actively involved, since he has embraced the need for a coalition Government which he believes can succeed in realising the rich potential of the country in every endeavour. The outspoken Basir further contended that more must be done to bridge the racial divide, while suggesting that he has a political formula that could determine the winner of the next general elections in 2020. Meanwhile, he has expressed concern that various protocols are not adhered to at Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meetings in Region Two; and he is willing to advise the council, given that he spent almost 15 years as a parliamentarian and has considerable experience in parliamentary practice and procedures. He cited one example whereby

the RDC had suspended the Standing Orders to reschedule one of its statutory meetings, which he said was not correctly done. He is also advocating the reactivation of the commemoration committee of the region, since according to him national and other important events are not properly planned, citing that ministers of the Government are not even garlanded whenever they appear to perform key functions in the region. He has also undertaken to provide a list of important persons whom he believes should be regularly invited to important functions as a means of recognising their contributions and status within the society. In addition, the father of six children is also an avid reader and writer with considerable knowledge of the country’s history; hence, he provides documentation of his writings and distributes them free of cost to various organisations, schools and the general public. He would have also previously donated a car and engines to the

Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI), so that students can gain practical experiences as a mechanic. Lecturing at various schools and institutions, including the New Opportunity Corps (NOC), also forms part of his civic duty to the people and children of Essequibo. He also takes pride in gardening and has been married to his wife Sabra Basir for over 49 years. The 83-year- old activist, who originated from the Pomeroon, is an American- trained dental technician, who also had served in the Pomeroon River as a captain and a boat hand.

Living in the Pomeroon resulted in his duty to indulge in farming; hence, he still does gardening at his home as a past time chore after migrating to the coastland in 1974 to live in Hampton Court. He has vowed to remain active in charting a better life for Essequibians and according to him, ‘being a national awardee means that he will remain as a servant of the people.’

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

Countryside oral traditions

By Shauna Jemmott

THE secrets of Guyanese oral traditions which were

once hidden in the backyards of countryside homes are now being revealed to a wider public as students of the ‘Oral Literature’ class of the University of Guyana

(UG) strive to preserve the unique literary art.

Through a combination of drama and PowerPoint presentations, the final year English majors staged an informative and entertaining showcase in the Education Lecture Theatre (ELT)recently at the Turkeyen Campus.

While the skies darkened between the hours of

This student, Colette Ault plays the ‘Kanaima’, a tradition from the Amerindian culture (Photos by Delano Williams)

17:00hrs and 20:00hrs, tales of Ole’ Higue, Bacoo, Fairmaid (also called Mermaid or Watta Mumma), Kanaima (an indigenous tradition) and Dutch Man legends were told to an attentive crowd on the inside of an illuminated theatre. Snacks remained untouched for a while as those who related stories, with dramatic injections, gripped the interest of the audience of mostly academics and professionals in the Language field.

Other stories of Queh Queh and the Maticore were Turn to page XXXI ►►► ◄◄◄ From page XXVII

using an electric toothbrush he noticed that his personality began to change significantly. He was suddenly getting very angry and aggressive during his half-hour commute to work.

The only reason he thought it might be vapor from the fillings was because his wife had just removed all her amalgams and experienced a phenomenal mood improvement.

He stopped using the electric toothbrush and a month later, when he came in to have his amalgams removed, he related that his mood changes had improved significantly.

While this may sound ridiculous, current research points to this phenomenon as a distinct possibility.

Toothpaste manufacturers also routinely use excessive sweeteners and even chemicals that can cause mild burning of the delicate gum tissues. Colgate, my favorite toothpaste, has a variety of choices (total, luminous, etc).

However, an option is to make your own toothpaste at home. It is really quite easy. Simply mix enough hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to make a paste, and use it as you would any other toothpaste product – but with much greater peace of mind.

As far as floss is concern I do have a definite recommendation here: use unwaxed floss, or preferably tape. When floss is coated with wax, the fibers get smooth together resulting in less surface area to clean the teeth. Unwaxed floss is made up of many strands of fiber so there is more surface area to pick up plaque.

Some patients complain that unwaxed floss shreds. In that case, the problem is not with the floss, but with your teeth. Discuss it with your dentist. You may have a filling that is not flush with the tooth or a corroded amalgam.

When flossing, do not just move the floss up and down once or twice. Rub gently to remove the plaque and do each side of the tooth individually.

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

XXXI

◄◄◄ From page XXVII

In this section of the audience, Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith and students of the Cyril Potter College of Education/University of Guyana Teachers training program pay attention to the lecture on oral literature

Students of the Oral Literature group – Tabica Fraser, Marcia Persaud and Mitsy Wallerson - in a dramatic presentation of the Maticore gyrate to the sounds of music featuring Indian kata drums, demonstrating to the bride-to-be some new things she should learn on becoming a married woman

also told.

Al Creighton, a Caribbean cultural specialist who lectures the final year course ‘Oral Literature’, disclosed to Pepperpot Magazine in an interview that one of the objectives of the Oral Literature course at UG is to preserve the fading and undocumented literary art form.

Creighton defines Oral Literature as “literature that is not written… but things that people speak and things that people perform. They believe in these things and they Turn to page XXXII ►►►

◄◄◄ From page XXVIII

ing a business. The modules were extended to professional practices too.

One of the many takeaways for businesses was that the attitude of the leader affects the atmosphere of the office. If you desire to add value by serving others, you will become a better leader.

Those who work under you will achieve more, develop more loyalty, and have a better time getting things done than you ever thought possible.

The climax to my weekend was the up-cycling classes for persons living with disabilities from the David Rose School for Special Needs and Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre.

I have been working for years with people from the disabled communities and I am very passionate about their wellbeing.

I challenge you today to contribute in a positive way to someone’s life.“People who add value to others do so intentionally. I say that because to add value, leaders must give of themselves, and that rarely occurs by accident.”-John C. Maxwell Let’s encourage each other to do something life changing today.

Send us a message to beyondtherunway1@gmail.com and visit our FB page beyond the runway as we continue this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

XXXII ◄◄◄ From page XXXI

exist. People were definitely saying that these things are true and these things do happen.”

The Cultural Specialist said Guyana’s oral Literature is not written in books, but is “produced by the people and … they can produce very often in literal forms.”

“Some of them are fading away (but) if you don’t cap-

ture them now they would be totally gone. They will continue to exist if people continue to pass them on; if people continue to tell them. People nowadays don’t have time for those kinds of things. They have time or cellphones, computers, TV. Many of the people who practice them are ashamed and are hiding,” he said.

However, Creighton said the ‘Oral Literature’ course

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017 at UG attempts to preserve stories of such cultural traditions, keeping them alive for the world to know. He said Oral Literature is not the normal kind of English Literature course that people have been doing, but it is more of a cultural kind of literature.

“What they presented was what they collected. In the process they are learning to research. They learn about a particular type of culture,” Creighton said of his student’s work.

INFORMATION GATHERING The students have been collecting information for several months through visits to villages and interaction with villagers who fed them with information on some of the traditions which knits cultures and peoples across several African, Indian or Amerindian -based communities within Guyana. The work collected is also documented and stored to facilitate research by other groups.

“People would tell them stories and they would interview people on what they are looking for. [The students were] giving a presentation based on the things they have collected,” Creighton said.

The 15 students were grouped into four and each group presented on two oral literary traditions. The first group gave an interesting presentation on the popular but dark Ole Higue tale which casts a shadow of doubt in the confessions of many, while many others professed to be real. Tabica Fraser, Marcia Persaud, Mitsy Wallerson and Taramattie Dhalpaul were members if that group.

In a detailed and entertaining presentation of the ‘Maticore’ they explained that the tradition is popular within rural communities and is locally called ‘dig dutty’.

The Maticore is done on the Friday evening, the first day of the traditional Indian or Hindu wedding, and has a sacred significance. The ceremony is held only when the bride-to-be is a virgin, and the digging of the clay signifies her purity.

During this kind of wedding ceremony also a saffron is performed where the bride to be is further “purified and adorned” by the youngest female among the group, using ‘dye’, the group explained. “‘Matti’ means earth and ‘kor’ means digging. The same rites are done separately at the homes of the bride and groom. Maticore night is an important zone of female empowerment. The almost exclusively female-centered ritual is meant to instruct the Dulahin (bride to be) on sexual matters through humour, dance, song and roleplay. It was in this zone that Hindu women throughout the centuries found a safe haven where they could express themselves without the prying eyes of men, pass on valuable traditions from mother to daughter and be free to be sensual, ribald and spicy without judgment or censure,” one student explained.

In a brief dramatic showcase of the Maticore, the young bride-to-be sat nervously on a low seat, while two adult married women enlighten her on “things sexual” that she must understands as she prepares to meet her husband alone in a more intimate bond. The atmosphere became filled with excitement as an aunt and the mother of the bride-to-be gyrated and said to her “this is wha you have to give the man”. The crowd burst into laughter and loud applause.

“Those were all stories that they got from people,” Creighton explained.

Meanwhile, in the student’s presentation of the ‘Ol’ Higue’, they said although “the Ol’ Higue is believed to be an old woman who isolates herself from other members of the community, there are some instances where men-folk have been said to be Ol’ Higues.”

Of the Ol’ Higues too, they said, “They are known to transform into balls of fire (and) they feed on the blood of humans.”

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017 ◄◄◄ From page XXIII

to express Hindu religious themes and spiritual ideas. This skill came in handy for the marketing coordinator during her talent piece at the pageant. But, for Sangeeta, it’s more than just about dancing.

Over the years, Sangeeta has used her love for Indian arts, and skill as a dancer to support several charitable initiatives, both in Canada and in Guyana. She is actively involved in the Nirvana Humanitarian Foundation organisation, which raises funds to support global needs such as earthquakes and medical cases, as well as to support the local and international Indo-Caribbean community.

“I’ve been involved in volunteer work from a very young age. I remember when I was around six years old, a group of students would go to the senior home across from our school to spend time with the seniors. From there, I’ve just always been involved in various sets of volunteer work in Canada, especially through charity, dance and music performances for a number of different organisations,” Sangeeta said.

Her charity work also helped to open a door for Sangeeta to visit Guyana even more often, after a branch of the organisation was opened in Guyana.

“My contributions in Guyana strongly took off in 2012. I wanted to give the youths of Region Three the chance to learn Bharatanatyam, so I held a few free two- week workshop. I feel strongly about teaching our Guyanese youth, because

Sangeeta performing a Bharatanatyam dance as her talent piece in the Miss India Guyana pageant last month

not only are they learning proper technical aspects of the art forms, they are also building a diverse set of transferrable skills that help them to be more successful into their adult life,” she said.

Between holding down her job as a Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Carmen’s Group, and all her travelling around and performing to raise funds, it’s a wonder that she’s been finding the time to carry out the duties of her crown. But Sangeeta Bahadur just gets it done!

“It is a bit challenging but as the saying goes, ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way’. Time management also helps to keep me on track. I have a pretty comprehensive planner which is my go- to black book,” Sangeeta said.

Uma also agreed that managing Sangeeta has not really been as hard as it seems, particularly because Sangeeta has been a quick learner, and coming from such an all-round background, she didn’t need as much work as other winners had.

“It isn’t difficult to coordinate with her. We communicate with each other almost every day. She has already begun some of the training in Canada. She’s quite an excellent public speaker, so no need to train her in that aspect , but rather sharpen it. And since she’s a trained professional dancer, her

Sangeeta teaching Bharatanatyam to a group of youngsters in Guyana last month

XXXIII talent is something we need not worry much about that either.

It’s just to discuss what we are looking for in terms of choreography and music,” Uma explained.

More to their advantage as well is the fact that the Miss India pageant isn’t set until October, giving everyone more than enough time to get well prepared for the international pageant, ensuring that Sangeeta is the best that she can be, and make Guyana proud, just the way she has always wanted to.

From flight attendant to commercial pilot XXXIV

By Shauna Jemmott

“After travelling the world a little with Dynamic and seeing little pieces of it, I decided I didn’t want to be flown any-

more -- I wanted to learn how to fly this thing!”

In looking at a video documentary of an eagle’s flight, the question was asked: “Why does the thrill of soaring begin with the fear of falling?” And even as a young Guyanese took to the

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

shelf-less horizons as a flight attendant, her true destiny was discovered in the cockpit of Dynamic International Air, and now she’s on a journey up the ladder of endless possibilities.

Twenty-year-old Amber Low reminds one of an eagle! For the commercial pilot employed with Roraima Airways and the youngest female pilot in Guyana, much excitement comes

with flying.

The daughter of renowned Gynaecologist, Dr. Guy Low, from girlhood she stood with great men and boldly witnessed surgical and other medical procedures which had caused her to believe that the familiar would become her professional pursuit.

She originally wanted to become a medical doctor.

After being taught at home for quite some time, Low started school finally at Grade 5, where she began socialising with a wider cross-section of people. Being on top in her education, Turn to page XXXV ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017 ◄◄◄ From page XXXIV

she was always one step ahead of her peers. She finished school too and after securing Advanced Level passes at the age of 17, through Nations University, she was still too young for Medical School. So Amber said she needed a year to discover something new.

“I didn’t know if I had this commitment for Med school and I was like I needed just one year. And then I decided to be a flight attendant. I began working with Dynamic International Airways in 2015. Dynamic gave me something that I think is vital to every young person, that is, exposure. It let me have the opportunity to experience new cultures, meet new people and definitely widen my horizons. It kick-started all that I knew I

wanted to become and for that I will always truly be grateful for the opportunity that I was given,” she said.

The day she stepped on the plane and experienced what it is to be flown the world over, she felt she was ready to take control.

Training as a flight attendant imputed in her a greater sense of passion to understand and fulfil the needs of all in her care, while she too was in someone else’s care. And, being the youngest flight attendant, humility tried to cushion her but her go-getter personality wouldn’t let her stay put.

“Being a part of a cabin crew is something truly remarkable. Being a flight attendant is extremely important. It is your job to keep more than 200 people safe in your cabin at 34,000 feet above the ground, while you’re a representative your country. You were the first thing a tourist or maybe someone returning to Guyana after being away for a long time, sees, and experiences of Guyana. You are now a young ambassador of your country.”

But after six months on the job, that period of transition came and it was time to step down for the greater climb.

“I love meeting people and it was definitely a new experience. If I go travelling to a new place I don’t want see what tourists see, I want to be with the locals; so it was a huge experience, but it got boring. For me, I couldn’t just be doing that one thing. I needed more. I’m never comfortable in just one place. I learn to take my time in life, but I don’t stay comfortable,” she intoned.

That is when she became Turn to page XXXVI ►►►

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Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

◄◄◄ From page XXXV

certain of what she was born to do and her path changed in ways she calls ‘divine.’

“Sometimes in life you think you now have your own path and it’s just set for you and then it just kinda steers you in an entirely different direction. It found me I didn’t find aviation.

It really did find me.”

One of the pilots at Roraima took her on a flight to view the majestic Kaieteur Falls and asked her then if she wanted to “hold the controls.”

“I said yeah! I now work with Roraima Airways along with some of the most skilled and talented pilots I have ever known,” Low said in the interview with Pepperpot Magazine.

It was our second time talking and ‘cheerful’ is the one adjective I can grab for the young pilot.

She said although Captain Gerald Gouveia Snr. found it a little difficult letting her go from the Dynamics cabin, he agreed too that flying would be her actual destiny. Training in Miami, Florida, was an adventure, one which allowed her to dance halfway between earth and sky.

She spoke of days when those in control would cut the engine off while she as the pilot in training is being asked, “What are you going to do next?” She spoke of times when the aircraft turned vertically and at just 2000 feet in thin air, it dropped at a speed.

Lifting and flipping her hands, she chuckled, “They bring it up like this and it flops down, and then you’re no longer looking at anything else but the ground and you’re seeing yourself going down.”

After training for months in Florida, she returned a month ago today – May 11 -- and was rehired by Roraima Airways, this time as a commercial pilot, wearing three stripes on both shoulders.

She now experiences a major difference in her responsibilities and is filled with excitement when it’s time to report for work.

“It’s exciting! Every day is definitely a new adventure! I always like to be in control. Flying, on the other hand, you’re in control of your life and everyone else’s on board. There’s so much going on at once – calculations, radios, you have to know that ‘I’m at this spot in the world, in the air.’ There’s nothing to tell me where I am except maybe a computer or like these coordinates that you made yourself. You’re in control of everything and all at once… It’s exciting and it takes a really strong person.”

The nature of the flights and destinations traversed daily calls for much skill and focus, even as the Guyanese pilots fly deep into the jungle on runways, some of which seem almost impossible to handle, delivering food supplies, medical supplies and saving lives on a 24-hour call.

“And you know we do it with a purpose. It’s not just taking somebody from point A to point B, it’s always with a greater purpose – save a life or taking in supplies for people, food or whatever they need. We fly deep into the jungle and to the tiniest little runways to deliver food and supplies to our people. And at nights, even on the stormiest ones, we go on medical evacuations to save lives. It is superhero work as I’d like to call it.

“Guyana is one of maybe two places in the entire world that has runway conditions like we do. We really do have a tree over there and a pothole over here and maybe when we land there are kids playing in the football field at the other end of the runway, so there’s no room for error when flying in Guyana. That’s why we’re being trained for this. There is really no room for you to mess up. Everything has to be on point. You have to land at a specific point every single time.

Apart from being a commercial pilot, she is Roraima’s brand manager and marketing officer and one of the pilots assigned, not only to commercial flights, but also to medical evacuations in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health.

And one might not believe that at the age of 20, she already has an overflow of professional responsibilities.

But this is not where it ends for Amber Low. She plans to return to Florida to do her Flight Instructor rating, and pursue degrees in the field of Business.

“I’m always thinking: ‘What’s the next step?’ Like now I’m a pilot, what can I do next? My next step is to be a captain and then hopefully get my ATP licence. I’ll definitely not just stick to one thing. But I think my entire career will be centred on aviation now and probably a little bit, even with Roraima.”

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The astonishing

Chronicle Pepperpot June 4, 2017

Dr. Sherelyn Stanton

By Shirley Thomas The Paediatric Ward of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is poised to be further strengthened in its response to sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia, with the return of Paediatric Registrar, Dr. Sherelyn Stanton to the institution, her successful completion of a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship in London, United Kingdom.

The Fellowship was made possible through the Association of Guyanese Nurses and Allied Professionals (AGNAP) in the UK, and focused on the identification and management of sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia.

Dr. Stanton who is currently Head of Department (Ag) of Paediatric Medicine has responsibility for Cancer, Sickle Cell and Thalassamia.

She directs, supervises, and evaluates work activities of medical personnel of the Paediatric Medicine Department.

She is also responsible for teaching medical students, nursing students, residents and other junior staff about pertinent Paediatric topics. She conducts examinations with the medical students and ensures that service on the various wards and clinics are maintained by co-ordinating the activities of the staff present in the Department.

Over the last two years, she has functioned in the following capacities:

● Senior Registrar at the Paediatric Medicine Ward ● The Primary physician for patients admitted to the Paediatric ward with Haematologic/ Oncologic issues ● Primary physician responsible for conducting the Paediatric Medicine Chronic Disease Haematology and Oncology clinics among other things.

She has responsibility for directing, and evaluating work activities of medical personnel primarily those allocated to the Paediatric Medicine ward; supervising research activities of medical interns on Haematology/ Oncology topics; and teaching medical students, residents and other junior staff about pertinent Paediatric topics.

These areas of responsibility and ongoing collaboration

Dr. Sherelyn Nelson, Senior Registrar and Head of Department (Ag)-Paediatric Medicine

place Dr. Stanton in a very good position to impart to the doctors in the department, knowledge gained during the UK Fellowship, ultimately making for a strengthened response to caring for Paediatric patients with sickle cell anemia and thalassaemia.

THE CONDITIONS Sickle cell disease is a group of disorders that affects hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. People with this disorder have atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape.

Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder in which the body makes an abnormal form of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

The disorder results in excessive destruction of red blood cells, which leads to anaemia since their body tends to produce a lot less red blood cells and they are much smaller than they should be and so they trend to require blood transfusions regularly, she outlined.

Rearing and ready to go, the 32-year-old, with a Master’s Degree in Paediatrics, Dr. Stanton holds both a MBBS (BachTurn to page XXXIX ►►►

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elor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) and a MMD (Master’s Degree in Medicine) from the University of Guyana. She has been practising as a medical doctor on the Guyana Medical Council for the last seven years.

With a passion for the areas in which she has specialized, Dr. Stanton derives much satisfaction from her job and her daily interaction with Paediatric patients.

Motivation: Asked what influenced her choice of career, Dr. Stanton modestly replied, “As far as I can recall I have always wanted to be a Paediatrician, ever since I was a child. I think I really chose what I wanted to do, stuck with it, and did not pursue it because other people were doing it.”

And what is the greatest joy she derives from being in the profession? “It’s about being there for them; being able to save lives, literally seeing a child transition from a state of ill health to wellbeing. You see, children are so resilient and if they are sick, although they may not be able to tell you verbally, you can tell from how they act and how they behave; their body language.” She said that the minute a sick child is feeling better, you can tell right away. “That’s when they begin laughing and interacting really well with you. It’s like a 180 degree turn around and you can see the joy. That makes me happy,” she confessed.

“I tend to think that people underestimate how much children (especially children with chronic diseases) –go through and how much they understand,” she said.

Using as an example the oncology patients or sickle cell patients, Dr. Stanton said, “Make no mistake, these children are aware of what diseases they have. They know what medication they have to take, and in the case of the older ones some of them even know their dosage and how often they have to take it. They know things that would make them feel worse; what to avoid, what will make them feel better. Some of them even remind their parents when their clinic dates come around,” she said.

“And so while lots of adults might say, ‘Well oh, it’s a child, and a child doesn’t understand’, they understand a lot more than we give them credit for.”

She admits that sometimes it’s quite difficult to deal with, but insists that as their doctors, you need to be strong for them. “Because at the end of the day, you’re the one leading the team and you’re the person who will ultimately make the decisions that affect their quality of life and therefore you need to be very focused when you are doing that,” she said.

And as for oncology Dr. Stanton outlined that she chose to take an interest in oncology because of the similarities, in terms of working with blood and blood disorders, and also took an interest in haematology.

Hence those are the two areas that technically, she has responsibility for. She conducts clinics in those areas. Oncology clinic is held every other Thursday afternoon – the first and third Thursday of every month, as well as a haematology clinic every Friday morning at the GPHC. In 2011, Dr. Stanton, with a passion for taking care of and working towards preserving the lives of babies and children, while at the same time working in pursuit of higher education, enrolled into the Master’s degree programme to do her residency which was of three years’ duration.

She was among the first batch of five doctors from the GPHC to have undergone the training and they all completed it successfully. In that same year she attended the Miami Neonatology Conference.

PAEDIATRIC MEDICINE Falling under the purview of Paediatric are: The Paediatric Medicine Ward; Paediatric Outpatient Departmert (comprising the Walk In Clinic and Chronic Diseases, catering for children who have a kidney or heart problem and who need constant supervision and need to come to clinic regularly). There is also, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit which has a few sub-divisions where they can see babies from as little as 28 weeks gestation.

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English THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

When the true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him.

JONATHAN SWIFT (1679-1745) Thoughts on Various Subjects, 1706 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, The purpose of language is communication. Firstly, through language you communicate with yourself. How is this done? You put together plans, keep in touch with things, solve problems, think about ideas, and use imagination. Secondly, you communicate with others. You give and get information, ideas; express feelings; and socialise. In either case, you must endeavour to use language to communicate more effectively and successfully in a wide variety of situations.

Be wise.

Love you.

IMPROVING YOUR WRITING When I was a boy, there was an old German merchant who lived in a little cottage in our town. On Sundays he used to go out and knock off the limestone ledges along the Mississippi, and he had a great tonnage of these chips, all labeled and catalogued.

The chips contained little fossil stems of stone of some defunct water creatures called crinoids.

The townspeople regarded this little fellow as just a little bit abnormal, but harmless.

One day the newspaper reported the arrival of certain titled strangers. It was whispered that these strangers were great scientists. Some of them were from foreign lands, and some among the world’s leading paleontologists.

They came to visit the harmless old man and to hear his pronouncements on crinoids, and they accepted these pronouncements as law.

When the old German died, the town awoke to the fact that he was a world authority on his subject, a creator of knowledge, a maker of scientific history. He was a great man – a man beside whom the local captains of industry were mere bushwhackers. His collection went to a national museum, and his name is known in all the nations of the earth.

(Aldo Leopold, “Sand County Almanac”) Something to Do Read the passage with study partners beside you, and then discuss its dominance of simplicity and its splendid expressions.

Dominance of simplicity in the mood of this piece of writing reflects a cool, calm personality with mistaken identity, which was the German character: the concerned locals did not read him well. Watch as the writing’s deliberate word choices create the mood directly matching the old man’s personality and lifestyle – a deliberate underestimation!

Reminder: Mood is referred to as the atmosphere of a literary piece, as it creates an emotional situation that surrounds the readers. It is developed through various methods, such as through setting, theme, tone and diction.

Attend to the following questions and see how the writer uses the afore-mentioned elements in the writing to create this particular mood.

Comment on the use of the following phrases, both vivid and unassuming, in the passage. a) (to go out and) knock chips off the limestone ledges b) defunct water creatures called crinoids c) certain titled strangers d) the harmless old man e) the town awoke to the fact f) mere bushwhacks IMPROVING YOUR READING Now that you are beginning to seriously pursue a year of English Language study, one of the first things you need to do is improve your reading ability.

Follow the exercise below to help you gain a good speed reading habit. Look only at the beginning of familiar words rather than the entire words.

Exercise: a) Read as rapidly as possible the following paragraphs following in which the endings of some familiar words have been omitted.

Your work in elem___ school, high sc___, and univ___ is great___ affect___ by your abil___ to read. As a a stu___, you must be able to read qui___ and thoro___.

You must be ab___ to read fast enough so that you will have ti___ for some pers___ relax___.

In busi___ you will have to read corres___ and other writ___ matrt___ to the busi___ active___ in which you eng___ ev___ day. b) Continue to practise reading missives even if the words are partially obliterated, and note your improved reading prowess.

IMPROVING WORD MEANING In each of the following sentences, choose the word in brackets that correctly expresses the meaning. A good dictionary can be made use of.

1. The mining company discovered a new (vain, vein) of ore.

2. The reactor was surrounded by a (lead, led) shield.

3. Some airlines offer a special (fair, fare) between Guyana and Ghana.

4. Our seats were in the third (tier, tear) of the John Dates Stadium.

5. The sound of the pounding (surf, serf) grew louder as the wind increased.

6. Constance learned the Indonesian song by (wrote, rote).

IMPROVING SPELLING There are some tricky words that students still have difficulty spelling. Your minimum spelling vocabulary should include fifty words among which are the ones used hereunder. a) Some words are misspelled because one or more of their double-letter combinations are not written in their entirety. Study these words below: accommodate bookkeeping committee occurred succeed embarrass b) Some other words have their single set of double letters disregarded. occasion questionnaire recommendation proceed dissatisfaction professor c) Some words are misspelled because letters or syllables in the words are omitted.

Such words often include the following: convenient (not convient) interest (not intrest) guarantee (not garantee) February (not Febuary) acquire (not aquire) mortgage (not morgage) d) Some words are single like: cannot nevertheless e) Others are separate words: all right home owner a lot

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Bollywood news

Priyanka Chopra attacked for 'showing legs' to India PM Modi Actress Priyanka Chopra's decision to wear a dress that showed her legs for a

meeting with Indian PM Narendra Modi has been criticised by some social media

Radhika Apte doesn’t want to conform to fashion expectations Radhika Apte, who has impressed cinegoers with her choice of roles and nuanced performances, admits that she doesn't get affected by the scrutiny that actors have to face with regard to their sartorial choices. She says, "There are many fashion conscious actors who maintain their style quotient and I find that charismatic and fascinating. Some of them do it with great conviction and I really admire that."

However, she says that living up to other people's perception of an actor is a lot of hard work. She states, "According to me, it's an immense waste of energy and I can't do it. I find it difficult to look a certain way constantly, so I do it only when necessary.

Also, I don't think I have reached a stage where I need to be conscious about what I'm wearing when I'm walking down the

street. I don't think I am that big a star that it matters. Even if I do become a big star, I wouldn't want to conform to these norms."

users in India.

Some Facebook users told her off for "disrespecting" the PM".

The unapologetic actress responded by posting a picture of both her mother and her wearing short dresses, captioned "legs for the day".

Other Indian actresses have also faced anger over their choice of attire.

Deepika Padukone once publicly called out a leading Indian newspaper in 2014 for tweeting a picture of her cleavage.

"YES! I am a Woman. I have breasts AND a cleavage! You got a problem!!??"

Padukone tweeted to the paper. Many other actresses also came out in support of her. The

controversy began after Chopra, who stars in the new Baywatch film and in the US television series Quantico, posted a picture with Mr Modi, thanking him "for taking the time from his packed schedule" to meet her in Berlin.

It didn't take long though, before the "disrespectful" dress became the topic of conversation, with many commenting on how it "insulted" Mr Modi and his "pious followers."

Chopra chose not to directly respond to people, but instead made what many are calling a "classy comeback" on Instagram, featuring herself, her mother, and of course, legs.

The post had received more than 100,000 "likes" in a little over four hours.

Entertainment

Rihanna claps back – with the perfect meme

Rapper, Gucci Mane appears in two different body weights Barstool being Barstool again,’” Portnoy wrote. in a split photo with big block letters that says, “If you can’t The article was written around a series of photos that show handle me at my 2007 Gucci Mane, you don’t deserve me at Rihanna wearing a loose- fitting top and baggy jeans. Barstool my 2017 Gucci Mane.” writer, Chris Spags asserts that the singer is “pushing 180,” Mic drop. and her new body might inspire other women to gain weight, Thousands of her fans began leaving comments under the given her social media influence and star power. photo, which has been liked over 624,000 times as of Tuesday Portnoy’s statement, which did not include an apology, morning. said Spags’ article mostly fell flat.

Rihanna did not call out a specific publication in her Instagram post, but an article published last week by sports blog, Barstool Sports prompted some backlash from critics.

The article, “Is Rihanna Going To Make Being Fat the Hot New Trend?” has since been deleted from the site, and its founder, David Portnoy published a statement on May 30 to explain his decision.

“To be honest, I don’t think the blog was as bad as many are RIHANNA has used humour and some serious shade to making it out to be, but I’ll tell respond to some body-shaming that recently made its way you this: It wasn’t that funny either, and I could have told around the Internet.

Ingredients The singer took to Instagram on Monday with a meme you with absolute certainty that • 15 oz (or 3 small cans) tuna feminists would hate it and use that some followers are calling the “perfect response” to being it as an example of ‘there goes in oil, drained and flaked called out for her apparent weight gain.

• 1 cucumber, sliced • 2 large or 3 medium avocados, peeled, pitted & sliced • 1 small/medium red onion, thinly sliced will likely be deported to Jamaica.

• ½ small bunch of cilantro (1/4 Buju has an upcoming collaboration cup chopped) coming out with Rihanna, which will ap• 2 Tbsp lemon juice, freshly BUJU Banton has just over a year more in pear on her next album. The Barbadian squeezed prison on his cocaine-trafficking sentence, songstress recently registered the single, • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil titled, “Phatty,” and named Buju Banton and he his thanking his fans for their as a writer.

• 1 tsp sea salt, or to taste support.

The Grammy-winning reggae singer • ⅛ tsp black pepper took to Facebook over the weekend to let his fans know that he will be with Instructions them soon, and most of all, he thanks 1. In a large salad bowl, comthem for standing by his side throughout bine: sliced cucumber, sliced his ordeal.

“To all of my fans who have stood avocado, thinly sliced red onbeside me, I thank you,” the Gargamel ion, drained tuna, and ¼ cup wrote. “Your actions, letters and heartcilantro. felt prayers have been appreciated. I 2. Drizzle salad ingredients thank you, and I am humbled by your with 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 2 kindness; I am with you and you with me. Always.”

Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt and ⅛ tsp black pepper (or season to taste). Toss to Buju also let his fans know that combine and serve. they will reunite again soon. “I will be with you again soon; they may have the past and present, but the future belongs to us,” he added. Buju Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence for cocaine trafficking. The “Driver” singer is up for release in later 2018, when he

Avocado Tuna Salad

‘Buju’ thanks fans – ahead of release