Pepperpot 12 10 2017

See inside:

Woodside Choir keeps Christmas carolling alive ► Page II

The Young Toshao VI ► Page

Photo by Delano Williams

► Page

III

Shining Star

Marva Langevine, giving hope, making a difference

II

Editor’s note We’re sure by now you can feel Christmas in the air! But if not, allow us to help to evoke that feeling by bringing you some more stories geared toward the festive season. This week’s Pepperpot brings you stories of joy, laughter

and even sorrow. We look at one man who, having been misled by the wrong crowd, goes down a dark path one Christmas time and it leads him to an unlucky end.

Another story looks at how the elderly spend their Christmas at

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

the Palms. Other stories also focus on looking at our traditions, such as the beloved practise of carolling, which large sections of society participate in annually.

These and more stories are contained in this edition and we hope that we bring you that much closer to feeling the Christmas Spirit!

Happy Holidays!

Woodside Choir keeps Christmas carolling alive

By Gibron Rahim

“GOOD King Wenceslas looked out on the feast of Stephen.”

These lyrics are from the Christmas carol “Good King Wenceslas” in which the titular good king goes on a difficult journey to give alms to a poor peasant.

The song teaches a lesson in piety and compassion for others. The tradition of singing carols like these is slowly dying out. However, there are groups that work to keep carolling alive. Among these groups is the Woodside Choir.

The traditional door-to-door Christmas carolling that is the most recogMembers of the Woodside nisable is rarely practiced today. The Choir performing Woodside Choir does not routinely practice this form any longer. There are numerous reasons for this, as was year in 2012, would go carolling around explained to the Pepperpot Magazine when Georgetown at various locations. They we spoke to Marilyn Dewar, the choir’s ac- would also visit hospitals to bring some companist. She explained that years ago the Christmas cheer where it was needed most.

Woodside Choir, which celebrated its 60th She noted too that they would also hold a

concert at the site of the Non-Aligned Monument where a big stage would be set up.

As time went by and crime around the city became worse and robberies became frequent, the choir stopped their carolling around the city. The concert was no longer held by the Non-Aligned Monument. They still visit hospitals but not as frequently.

This is due to another barrier that hinders the choir’s Christmas carolling. Dewar explained that it is costly to move the entire choir around from location to location as Woodside is a non-profit organisation. “Our motto is to sing for the joy of singing,” she said. The choir bears all its own expenses.

Despite these challenges, the Woodside Choir still makes itself available to sing when persons make requests of them to appear. Dewar noted that the choir will be performing at the Festival of Carols at the Brickdam Cathedral this coming Tuesday.

They also appear at the Monument Gardens when invited to perform for events that are held there. “If people have functions and so on we go around and sing at Christmastime for them,” she also noted. Woodside’s folk singing branch also occasionally goes out to sing.

The Woodside Choir is scheduled to be at Nigel’s Supermarket on Friday, December 22 to sing for the customers while they do their Christmas grocery shopping. They have been doing this for the last few years.

The choir also hosts its own annual concert that is normally held just after Christmas.

This year’s concert will be held on Thurs-

day, December 28 at 19:00hrs at Christ Church on Waterloo Street.

Dewar took the time to give the Pepperpot a preview of what the audience can expect from the concert. It will, of course, feature Christmas music. There will also be a feature called “Little Lion, Little Lamb” which involves the story around the birth of Jesus Christ.

There will be different choruses singing along to music. Notably, a children’s choir – the Success Elementary School Choir – will join the Woodside Choir in singing for the first time. “They have been with us for years but with this cantata that we’re doing, one of the items in it involves the children’s choir singing along with the adult choir,” she noted.

There will also be other performers.

There will be a guitarist, in addition to other soloists. Woodside’s folk group will also be performing. Dewar was sure to emphasise that all of the music at the concert will be Christmas themed.

It is important to keep the Christmas carolling tradition alive. Dewar explained a few of the reasons for it being so vital.

Looking around, she said, people do not know many of the old traditional Christmas carols. In addition to the Woodside Choir, she also teaches music at her music school.

Around this time of year, her students would come to her and ask her for Christmas music to play. One of the carols she suggests is “Good King Wenceslas”. Her young students always react with surprise, having never heard of it. “I think it’s a good thing to keep the old traditional carols going,” she said. She explained that Christmas carols contain within them the traditions of Christmas as well as the meaning of the celebration.

It is clear that we need to keep the Christmas carolling tradition alive in Guyana. It may be true that carolling cannot be carried out in traditional doorto-door fashion any longer. Still, that does not mean that carolling cannot adjust to meet the circumstances of the times. Carolling is a vital part of preserving the traditions and meaning of Christmas. “The use of the carols [and carolling] is to keep the traditional carols going because if we don’t do that the younger ones coming up won’t know those and they will fade out.”

Shining Star Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

III

Marva Langevine, giving hope, making a difference

By Rawle Toney IN 2014, using the death of her best friend Mikeisha Beckles as inspiration, 24-year-old Marva Langevine decided to embark on a journey to transform the lives of bereaved, sick and underprivileged children and families in her community and beyond, having set-up her Guyana Golden Lives Organisation.

Marva’s exceptional work did not go unnoticed, notching up several forms of international recognition, but for the Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, Secondary School teacher, her biggest achievement yet came this month, when she received news that along with 54 other inspiration young leaders, ages 18 – 29 from around the world, she will be bestowed with the Queen’s Young Leaders Award.

Langevine will now join the Queen’s Young Leaders network of 240 Award winners, a unique community of influential change-makers, who represent all 52 Commonwealth countries. The winners will receive their Award from Her Majesty, the Queen at a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace in London, UK, next year.

Dr Astrid Bonfield, CBE, Chief Executive of The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, said: “In this, the final year of The Queen’s Young Leaders programme, once again we have outstanding Award winners, leading the way in transforming people’s lives for the better in every part of the Commonwealth. We congratulate them all for their remarkable achievements. Over the coming year, the programme will nurture and develop their talents, and equip them to go further in making a lasting change in their communities. I hope they find the experience to be truly life-changing and I’m delighted to welcome today’s winners to the now complete network of Queen’s Young Leaders.”

Society and the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Continuing Education, in recognition of The Queen’s lifetime of service to the Commonwealth.

While in the UK, Langevine will receive bespoke training, mentoring and networking opportunities and take part in a residential programme to help the awardees to build on the work they are leading in their communities.

While still soaking it all up, the usually humbled Langevine, told the Pepperpot Magazine that while she’s happy to receive the prestigious award, she’s more looking forward to the networking to help in the growth of her charitable work.

With a smile to melt the largest iceberg, Langevine said her area of work is unheard of in the Caribbean region, which gives her a distinct advantage.

“It’s a usually overlooked area, especially with bereaved children,” she said, adding, “I’ve seen children who would’ve lost their parents or a parent and the effect is life-threatening.

So we provide a safe place for them and with professional help, they’re able to overcome.”

The Queen’s Young Leaders programme was established in 2014 by The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust in partnership with Comic Relief, The Royal Commonwealth

Marva Langevine (first from left in front row) and other volunteers

FINANCIAL SUPPORT Asked about her support system, Marva said thanks to her family, friends and the use of her personal finances, her organisation is kept afloat, but of course, it’s a sacrifice.

She, however, said several persons and business have been generous to help in the organisation’s activities where they host an annual camp, celebrate the children’s birthdays, as well as lend a hand in whatever community projects.

Nolan Lancaster of Industrial Supplies and Services; Richard Jodah from Nobel House Seafood (Camp Golden); REO Region Three, Denis Jaikaran (outreach and workshops); Javid Ali from Slingerz (fundraisers); “D” Division Commander, Leslie James (outreach activities); Eton Cordis, Managing Director of Talk is Cheap Café (special activities); as well as Seon Owner of Indulgence Restaurant (Birthday parties) were listed as persons for whose assistance Langevine is grateful.

She pointed out that Covenant Home for Children will be sponsoring two children for the new school year, while Ansa McAl, relatives and friends in the diaspora also contributed significantly in helping to make her entity sustainable.

Looking ahead, Marva stated, “My expectations for the new year as a recipient (of the award) include being able to promulgate the work that is already being done nationally, through the networking opportunities and the availability of well-experienced mentors.”

“We also plan to collaborate with other community groups and charitable organisations...I am [also] on the Board of Covenant Home for Children; a charitable non-profit organisation headquartered in the United States that is focused on the homeless, runaway, abandoned, abused, trafficked, or exploited youth of Guyana,” said the school teacher with a golden smile.

IV

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

FILES E S A C COURT

Guilty of embezzlement by magistrate

Customs Guard freed by Full Court, restored by Appellate Court THIS was the fate of Customs Guard Perez. In the absence of the Customs Officer he received money from a businessman as revenue on a gift imported into the country, which was not taken into account.

As a consequence he was found guilty of – Embezzlement by a public officer - .

It all happrned in the Ramjattan v- Bernari { British Caribbean Court of Appeal – Criminal Jurisdiction (Gomes,P.,Lewis and Jackson, JJ. A.) July 17, 18. 1962.]

A customs guard , having no official duty to do ,so, collected from one Kissoon Singh a payment of duty on certain articles imported into the country , and made out and delivered a receipt therefore.

He thereafter handed over the money to the respondent , an officer of Customs and Excise , whose duty it was to collect such money, but who had been absent earlier when payment was made to the customs guard.

The respondent failed to pay over the money into revenue and was convicted of the offence of embezzlement by a public officer, the case having been tried summarily by consent.

The conviction and sentence were set aside on appeal to the Full Court which held that it was not part of the duties of the customs guard to receive the money, and that when he paid it over to the respondent but a receipt was not made as a receipt of

money entrusted to him by virtue of his employment . (See 1962 LR.B.G.331). On appeal by the prosecution, Held: Although the customs guard was not authorised to receive the payment , KS’s intention was that the money should be paid into revenue and his intention was carried out when the customs guard paid it over to the respondent who admittedly was authorised to receive it on behalf of the Government . At that moment the money is the property of the Government and in failing to hand it over to the Government the respondent was guilty of embezzlement.

E.A. Ramao ,Senior Crown Counsel, for the Appellant.

A. S. Manraj for the Respondent.

GOMES, P.: This is the judgment of the court. This appeal raises a question of law .The facts are not in dispute but they may be stated very briefly for the purposes of this appeal. They are these.

A man by the name of Kissoon Singh arrived as a passenger at a port of entry bringing with him some gifts. The customs duty on the gifts was assessed in the sum of $10. At that moment the respondent , the customs officer who is authorised to assess and receive customs duty was absent, but a customs guard by the name of Perez was holding on for him in his absence . The sum of $10 was paid by Kissoon Singh by way of customs duty to the customs guard, Perez.

It was admitted that Perez was not a person authorised to assess or collect customs duty. He had, however, in the absence of the authorised officer received the amount and he gave a provisional receipt therefore to Kissoon Singh. Later on, when the Customs officer arrived , Perez paid over the $10 to him in order that it might be paid in to the proper destination, that is to say , paid into the revenue.

The respondent , having failed to bring the matter to account into revenue, was charged with embezzlement. He was convicted by the magistrate and the Full Court after hearing arguments , allowed the appeal and quashed the conviction.

(1962 L.R.B.G. 331).

From that decision of the Full Cour,t the Crown has appealed to this cour .

Giving the reasons for decision the Full Court inter alia stated: “The question for consideration is whether the appellant by failing to pay to his employers , the colony of British Guiana the sum of $10 given him by Perez is guilty of the offence of embezzlement by a public officer. In so far as Perez is concerned, he was employed as a customs guard and it was not part of his

By George Barclay

duties as a customs guard to receive monies or give receipts. It was the duty of the appellant to collect monies paid as duty on articles coming into the colony. Perez might be a bailee of the money received from Kissoon Singh and would hold the money in trust for him, but he would not have been entrusted with the money as a public officer within the meaning of s. 191 of the Ordinance . The money would be still the property of Kissoon Singh and not that of the Government of British Guiana . Perez would not have been entrusted with the money by virtue of his employment as a customs guard even though the appellant may have asked him to receive such moneys.”

If we may say so with respect we agree entirely with that part of the judgment of the Full Court. That court, however , went on to say “the facts that Perez paid over the money to the appellant does not make the receipt by the appellant a receipt of money entrusted to the appellant ( who is now respondent ) by v irtue of his employment. “ This court does not agree with that view. When the money was paid by Kissoon Singh , it was paid with the intention that it should be paid into the revenue as customs duty.

Although the payment to Perez was ineffective as he was not an authorised officer to receive it , Kissoon Singh’s intention was carried out when Perez paid it over to the respondent who admittedly received it in his capacity as a customs officer and as a person authorised to receive it on behalf of the Government.

This is where we consider the Full Court fell into error for when Perez paid mover the money he performed that which he undertook to do when he became the bailee of Kissoon Singh, from whom he received the money The respondent in this court failed to pay over the money and thereby intercepted it before it came into the possession of his employer.

In such circumstances we consider him guilty of embezzlement . For these reasons the appeal is allowed and the order of The Full Court is set aside and the conviction and sentence restored .

The court considers that the appellant is entitled to costs . The appellant will therefore have the costs in this appeal and of the Full Court.

Appeal allowed.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

V

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

My Favourite Spaces for Writing in Georgetown (Part I) SOMETIMES I think that the ever-elusive muse that is needed to inspire good writing is not so much an abstract entity or fantastical fairy, but, rather, a state of mind brought on by a number of factors that come together, sometimes rarely, to assist in the creation of a truly good piece of literature. The muse, in my mind, is made of everything that puts me in a comfortable state that enables me to be my best creative self. Therefore, elements such as my level of tiredness, my level of hunger, the type of equipment I am using to write, how driven I feel to write, and the space I am writing in, all contribute to the formation of my muse.

If the stars have aligned and everything is

where that can be conducive to writing.

THE OUTDOORS There are many writers who have been inspired by nature. Good examples include John Keats, Rudyard Kipling and Herman Melville.

Nature has always inspired human beings. In the beginning, it was nature itself that inspired men to be able to create gods and everything else that came after. Nature, therefore, was the first muse. Nature continues to inspire and in Georgetown, there are two specific spaces that allow Guyanese writers to be a part of the natural world – even if they are not immediately aware of it. The first of these is the National Park. When we think of the National Park, we

“The Botanical Gardens" Photo Credit: Len Jackson, Guyana City Guide (guyanacityguide.com)

as my body and mind need it to be, then the muse is in existence and the writing will be good. If I am too stressed, forced to write with pen and paper or on my phone (usually because my laptop needs charging), or I am in a noisy environment, then the muse will stay away. Out of all of these various components that come together to create the muse, the element of space might be one of the most important – and I think the environment in which one works is important not only for writers but for all artists. As a writer, and as a student at the University of Guyana and the National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, I have written (essays, short stories, plays, research papers) all over Georgetown. I have memories of typing away in the bus on the way to UG, pounding away at the computer at the Kitty seawall under the bite of the midday sun, and dragging my alcohol-stained fingers across the keyboard in several bars in the city. For the writers who struggle with finding the ideal writing space, I am happy to highlight a few of the spaces that work best for me when it comes to writing. Although it is true that what works for one person might not work best for another person, I think it is still worth making this list, especially because several of the places are well-known, but may not be instantly recognisable as some-

think mostly of athletics – joggers and soccer players, etc. – which is often quite far removed from the literary sphere writers inhabit, but there are also various natural elements (trees, ponies, the sea, canals, birds, etc.) that can help to inspire a writer. If one pays attention there is also an inspiration to be found in the variety of people who pass through the Park on a daily basis – and observing people is important because they help with character creation. On an average day at the National Park, one can observe joggers, soccer players, dancers, dancemoms, students, policemen, actors, people of varying nationalities, ethnicities and social classes, vagrants, couples, vendors, children, etc. There are a plethora of personalities to use in one’s stories. Close to the National Dance School’s benabs, there are benches to sit on or trees to sit under, and I particularly like to be there when writing at the Park.

The Botanical Gardens is also quite a good option – with the afternoons (from around 1 PM – 4:30 PM) being the ideal times for writing. There is a variety of trees and plants to help inspire the writer, and there is also a sense of openness in a wide expanse of space and breeze that helps to create a comfortable space in which to write. The space where the Mausoleum is located can be both quiet and calming – essential elements of good writing.

Of course, it is possible to write within

the Zoo attached to the Botanical Gardens as well. The squawking and screaming of various animals, particularly in mornings, when fewer people are around, can, in a strange way, help to foster writing. It might have to do with being in a space that simulates the primal or the wild, therefore putting the writer in an area where civilisation and society can be forgotten for a bit and the work can be the only thing that exists within the writer’s mind and his/her frame of focus.

While this article only focuses on parks in Georgetown, there are several other places outside of the city where one can write outdoors and be inspired by nature. I once stayed in a building that overlooked the Pomeroon River bordered by an expanse of trees, for example, and was exposed to the

kind of tranquility and serenity that is ideal for writing. On the West Coast, the part of the Vreed en Hoop Stelling that overlooks the Demerara River (where couples sometimes hang out in the afternoon) can be beautiful – although now the stelling is falling into various stages of disrepair and may not be as safe as it once was. Of course, with Guyana’s crime rate, it is always important to be careful when writing outdoors and in public spaces. It is best to do so in groups, during the day. There are many outdoor spaces that help the writer in shaping his/ her work, but there are also several indoor spaces (libraries, cafés, and even bars) that are also beneficial when it comes to writing.

These spaces will be the subject of next week’s article.

The Young Toshao

VI

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017 Toshao Charles Lewis

Life in the Kanapang village

By Ravena Gildharie

POLITICS, leadership and governance are often less sexy concepts for most young people of today’s society, and the majority shy away from such public roles. However, to those like 24-year-old Charles Lewis of Kanapang, it’s an opportunity to make a difference especially when you are the Village Leader of what is technically the “last village” of Guyana’s North Pakaraimas region which borders Brazil in the state of Roraima.

Home to about 37 households totalling a population of approximately 180, Kanapang is located about 21 miles from Kato, a more popular and easily-accessible village in the mountainous Region Eight. Kanapang is mostly farming-based though some residents work in the logging and mining industries outside of their area, according to Charles.

Because of its distance from other more-accessible communities of that part of the country’s hinterland, most residents rely on basic social services, such as health and education from across the border. It is believed that some residents even feel more

connected to the South American neighbour than to their homeland.

At age 24, Lewis is the fifth of 11 children born to a family that has distinguished themselves as one of the earliest settlers in Kanapang. Charles is one of the few children from his community that completed secondary education. He attended Paramakatoi Secondary which is situated miles away from his home and secured several passes at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. Charles graduated as the top CSEC student in Region Eight, an achievement that earned him great honour in his village. He later taught for two years as a volunteer teacher and had plans to pursue studies of becoming a medic before he took up the leadership post.

All through secondary school, Charles maintained a keen interest in his village’s governance and actively participated in communal events, gradually gaining increased admiration and respect of his villagers. Just after finishing secondary school, he was elected as a councillor and later as Toshao in 2015, when he was just 22 years old. So what does it mean to be one of the youngest Indigenous

village leaders?

“It is very challenging,” Charles chuckled in his reply, adding: “But it is a responsibility that the people believe I can fulfill, so I try my best to meet their expectations.” Though he evaluates support and cooperation of villagers at about 75 percent of the 180-odd population, the young leader believes it is enough to motivate his work and goals. And, though a few of the older residents sometimes disagree with some of Charles’ decisions, they don’t oppose his actions.

“Whenever we have community events, there are some people who don’t support or turn up but that is okay because I know there are others who will turn out,” Charles stated.

His current term as Toshao runs until 2018 and Charles is determined to administer as much needed change as he possibly can, especially in the areas of health and education. Most children in the area attend school across the border where the Brazilian government provides transportation, meals and even financial support for the family of each pupil. Currently, there are about 25 children of Kanapang attending school in Brazil. The village’s school is taught by three teachers, all untrained.

Healthcare and other facilities Though there is a health centre in Kanapang, only minor illness are treated there and residents are forced to seek advanced medical service in Brazil which sometimes require travelling by All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for between three to eight hours.

These are challenges that Charles would like to help address in his community to ensure the younger and upcoming generation enjoy a better way of life. In the area of health, the Toshao hopes to have a proficient medical doctor with adequate modern facilities to treat major illness suffered by residents and provide them with adequate supplies of necessary medications. Charles’ dream is also to have more trained teachers and perhaps in later years, even a secondary school in Kanapang.

Over the last two years, Charles and his village council have been busy establishing rules and regulations to govern the community as it relates to local governance, law enforcement and management of natural resources, while exploring opportunities to boost the socio-economic livelihoods of residents. According to Charles, most residents are subsistence farmers and others depend solely on the financial support they receive for their children enrolled in the Brazilian school.

Through the eyes of the young Toshao, it’s a quiet way of life in Kanapang, a village where Indigenous Guyanese of the Makushi and Patamona tribes learn Portuguese, as one of their first languages.

On the softer side, when not attending to his Toshao duties, Charles and some of his younger brothers are found performing in their own local band at weddings,birthdays and other social events.

He remains vocal and a vibrant young voice to represent the rights of Guyana’s first people.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

VII

Tongue diseases THE centre of the tongue indicates the most about the digestion history of a person. To understand the state of the heart, look way back at the root of the tongue for redness.

If the tongue is very pale, it indicates a very high fever is imminent and the coating would be white. If the tongue is a reddish purple especially around the tip, the person may or may not have a heart problem. But that needs to be investigated.

Modern medicine notes that some tongue diseases include: ● Loss of taste ● Sore tongue ● Black hairy tongue ● Glossodynia ● Benign migratory glossitis ● Tongue-tie LOSS OF TASTE Taste is a chemical sense that is activated during eating and drinking. Reasons for a loss of taste include: ● A person may lose their sense of taste if the facial nerve is damaged in some way. For example, Bell’s palsy may stop the facial nerve working properly and prevent or reduce chewing function (and, therefore, alter taste). It is uncommon for every taste nerve (bitter, salty, sweet and sour) to be affected. ● The autoimmune disorder known as Sjogren’s syndrome causes reduced saliva production, which in turn reduces the sense of taste. This is because the taste buds can only detect flavour when food is properly mixed with saliva. ● Glossodynia, a condition characterised by a burning sensation on the tongue, is also linked to loss of taste in some cases. ● Some medications can result in an unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth, such as tetracycline (an antibiotic), lithium carbonate (an antipsychotic) and captopril (an antihypertensive).

SORE TONGUE A sore tongue is usually caused by some form of trauma, such as biting your tongue, or eating piping-hot or highly acidic food or drink. Other causes of a sore tongue include: ● If your top and bottom teeth don’t fit neatly together, tongue trauma is more likely. ● Some people may experience a sore tongue from grinding their teeth (bruxism).

● Disorders such as diabetes, anaemia, some types of vitamin deficiency and certain skin diseases can include a sore tongue among the range of symptoms. ● A sore tongue can be caused by disorders including black hairy tongue.

BLACK HAIRY TONGUE While the term ‘black hairy tongue’ suggests the tongue surface looks black, it may also be dark yellow, brown, green or white. The tongue papillae are constantly renewing themselves and, usually, the old cells are shed as the new cells emerge. Black hairy tongue, a comparatively rare condition, is caused by the failure of the old cells to shed. The overgrowth of papillae trap food and bacteria, which create the characteristic dark The ‘coat’ on the tongue’s surface, while the tongue looks furred because of the layering of unshed papillae. The cause isn’t known, but risk factors include: ● Poor oral hygiene ● Cigarette smoking ● Particular antibiotics ● Chemotherapy and radiation treatment for cancers of the head and neck ● Poorly managed diabetes.

GLOSSODYNIA The main symptom of glossodynia is a burning sensation on the tongue surface. The various causes of glossodynia can include: ● Local infections, such as oral thrush (candidiasis) ● Damage to the lingual nerve ● Damage to nerves of the mouth during dental extractions ● Cigarette smoking ● Vitamin deficiencies ● Particular medications, such as diuretics and some blood pressure drugs.

BENIGN MIGRATORY GLOSSITIS This condition is characterised by irregular and inflamed patches on the

tongue surface that often have white borders. The tongue may be generally swollen, red and sore. Another name for this condition is geographic tongue. The cause of benign migratory glossitis is unknown, but risk factors are thought to include: ● Mineral or vitamin deficiencies ● Local irritants, such as strong mouthwashes, cigarettes or alcohol ● Certain forms of anaemia ● Infection ● Certain medications ● Stress.

TONGUE-TIE The medical name for tongue-tie is ankyloglossia.

Frenula are little strings of tissue found underneath the tongue, inside the cheeks near the back molars, and under the top lip. The frenum (or frenulum) under the tongue is called the lingual frenum. Tongue-tie is a condition characterised by a short frenum that stops the tongue from poking out past the lips. Other symptoms can include: ● Tongue tip can’t touch the roof of the mouth ● Tongue can’t be moved sideways ● Tongue tip may look flat or square instead of pointy when the tongue is extended ● Tongue tip may be notched or heart-shaped

VIII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

REVISITING THE PARKING METER SCHEME

IN today’s offering, we will revisit the Parking Meter issue, hopefully for the last time.

A few weeks ago, a well-known journalist wrote a piece mentioning that the City Council had appointed a Committee to re-negotiate the Parking Meter Contract with Smart City, a Mexican company. The journalist claimed that the Council was “playing dead” on the issue and when the public was disarmed and became quiescent the Parking Meters would deftly be reimposed. Whatever might be the Council’s strategy, we would like to remind the public and the Council’s re-negotiators of the following:1. The primary reason why the Council wished to impose Parking Meters on the city was to raise revenue. It was not to control or regulate traffic and many are confusing these issues. That is the reason why the meters were placed in streets and places where there was absolutely no traffic problem. And in the few streets with a traffic problem, the Police have always successfully regulated them.

2. In any company, the shareholders receive income on the amount of value, that

is, the money and assets they contribute to the company’s capital. In the Parking Meter Company, Smart City claimed it would have contributed US$10 million. There were no accounts presented to authenticate how this alleged US$10 million was arrived at.

The City Council would have contributed the value of the road system of Georgetown which would be worth billions of Guyana dollars. The actual value of the roads to be used for the Parking Meter Scheme could easily be worked out, and the values used in the recent case before the Caribbean Court of Justice where Trinidadian road-building companies were suing Government could be helpful.

In addition to the road system, the other contribution the Council will make is the continuous maintenance of the road margins and shoulders where the Parking Meters are placed. This has to be done to make comfortable and safe parking possible and to avoid legal actions if vehicles sustain any damage at the place of parking. The Council has this responsibility for the 20 years of the Contract’s life.

Further, when the first attempt to impose Parking Meters was tried, the Council deployed one-third of the Constabulary to the Scheme, costing the City hundreds of thousands of dollars. The cost of deploying the Constabulary has to be factored into the Council’s contribution to the Company.

In the original contract, Smart City would have received 80 percent of the takings and the Council 20 percent. On the basis of their respective contributions to the capital of the Company, it would appear that the Council should have received at least 80 percent of the takings.

3. The negotiators should take into account that the majority of the citizens do not wish to have Parking Meters and that the minority who may wish to have them are unwilling to pay the steep charges proposed.

If the negotiators hope to be successful in re-negotiating the Contract with Smart City, a lot of public relations will have to be done to convince the citizens and in particular the business community of the feasibility and use of Parking Meters and to have the parking fees drastically reduced.

4. The organised group who were agitating against Parking Meters have been publicly insisting that the Contract which was made with Smart City was an illegal one and they would be prepared to challenge it in the Courts. Other NGO’s would be prepared to

join in a class action. The legal status of the Contract should be ascertained by the negotiators as quickly as possible to avoid the risk of confusion.

5. Some attempt should be made to have an indication of the minimum conditions Smart City would require. Many consumers are of the view that Smart City would have already decided to withdraw from the Scheme since the adversarial milieu and the new conditions would not be to their liking. We have outlined the above in the hope of alerting the negotiators how the consumers are thinking There has been one surprising and positive spinoff from this Parking Meter affair.

It has been able to invoke an opposition which transcended race, religion, political affiliation, class and all the other divisive forces in the Guyanese society. Many political commentators have over the years treated these divisions as permanent and unchangeable. The opposition to this Parking Meter Scheme has demonstrated that Guyanese people are fundamentally more united than political commentators would suspect and are prepared to act in unity once they understand the issues and have professional leadership. Bouquets should also be given to the political parties for resisting the pull of being involved and showed that they are not mechanistically partisan.

Beware! Traitor on Board

By Abdool Aziz

IN December 1962, there was a great fanfare at the then Sprostons Shipyard on Lombard Street. A state-of- theart ship built locally was about to get underway on her maiden voyage to the Essequibo Delta to begin a modern ferry service. Onboard the vessel were the top officials of the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) especially the marine wing. And the professional crews except one.

THE LANDLUBBER By nature he loved the water. At age 10 he watched the ships come and go at the Parika Stelling and he vowed to be a sailor. At 17, he got that opportunity. He wrote a marine test, passed and to his surprise, was assigned to the newly-christened vessel – The M.V. Lalali. A Landlubber on board this modern ship? He couldn’t believe it. And so, too, the captain and the crew. He got a rude welcome. The mate on reading his credentials said, “Captain Moore is out of his

mind to send you here. This ship needs an experienced crew and we’re full, what nonsense!” Just then the skipper passed by. The mate said “Cap, can you imagine, he is coming to work here as a sailor?”

The captain’s reply was “Then put him to work!”

The mate in displease snapped “God, have mercy, join the crew stocking lifejackets” REJECTION He introduced himself, no one paid attention. They viewed him with disdain and fear. They felt he was a traitor – a government spy. They kept him at bay and disallowed him from doing anything. He felt the isolation. It was painful but he understood their attitude to him. The marine fleet had less than one percent East Indian sailors. Indo – Guyanese were not too keen to get involved in shipping careers. And to see one on board this magnificent vessel especially a ‘Green Horn’ was questionable. To brand him a ‘mole’ was more plausible. And Indian government was in power. There were race conflicts. Was he working for them? Little did they know that he would eventually be their hero.

WORKING IN FEAR He was barred from the crew’s quarters. He used the public washroom and slept on the promenade deck exposed to the cold wind. He was given all the menial jobs such as cleaning the bilge – stink water from the ship’s belly. He feared death down there – alone. He loved being a sailor and fought on.

BECOMING THEIR HERO The country crippled under a general strike and ferry services halted, so the M.V. Lalali was tied up. The government sought his services to help operate his ship. He refused, his crewmates would become a scab. Despite the Government’s warning to fire him, he stuck to principles. He held solidarity with his shipmates. After 80 days of struggle and near starvation, the strike ended. He proudly stepped on the decks of his ‘second home’. This time to a hero’s Welcome. He got the best bunk in the forecastle and was then assigned to be the bridge – a trusted companion. He became their mascot. No political stooge. No racism, no ‘mole’, simply a landlubber wishing to be a seaman. Whatever the view of you – good or bad- know thyself and work for praise.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

Church etiquette

By Godfrey Wray -1 Sam. 16:17…

BUT the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his (her) appearance or on the height of his (her) stature because I have rejected him (her). For the LORD sees not as man (woman) sees: man (woman) looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”

That Bible maxim was not the theme of the Mass, but it could well have been. And by the time I exited the holy edifice 90 minutes after I had entered, I was tormented with the fear that in today’s secular perspective many Christians, young and old, had lost their sense of church etiquette.

In our materialistic world, the church is perhaps one of the last social institutions where protocol, respect and reverence are supposed to be maintained. But sadly, times have changed rapidly and chunk by chunk the high esteem we held for that body throughout our lives is steadfastly being demolished.

In our day (a long time ago) it was your grandmother who was in charge of church-going activities. Sunday School was a must; it was an educational institution within the church catering to children and other young people.

Dress was institutional. Neatly-pressed long-sleeved white shirts and black (or blue) short pants; colourful kneehigh socks and shiny, patent leather shoes. For the girls, it was a simple hat, over-the-knee dress and ankle-covered socks. Vaseline, universally loved by granny, was the staple jelly for your hair and also all over your body, even your face. Whether it worked or not it was used to heal dry skin, help protect minor cuts, scrapes and burns.

Silence in church was paramount: Silence prior to the service in meditation.

Silence after the service in reflection.

Genuflection: the lowering of one’s body briefly by bending one knee to the ground as a sign of respect. It was old school. But those shows of deference had solemn meaning.

However one of my politically astute friends recently pointed out that in our today’s egalitarian society kneeling takes on a rather invidious and servile meaning. I’ve taken note.

The homily (a commentary that follows a reading of scripture) was about to be read when an apparition came striding down the centre aisle. It was a dazzling picture of iridescence which immediately brought on a harsh onslaught on the retina. One needed a pair of sunglasses to be able to look in his direction.

As if by design, a diminutive man followed, dressed in a billowing multi-coloured short-sleeved shirt, many sizes too large. The clip-clop of his footwear seemed to reverberate forever as he journeyed to complete his ablutions and returned, seemingly unaware or uncaring about disapproving glances. For him, he had understood what the Bible meant when it said: “Render your heart and not your garments.”

Some churches frown on female members wearing slacks, make-up or jewellery. That’s their modesty policy.

Some follow 1Timothy 2:9. –“I also want women to dress modestly with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes.”

The United Pentecostal Church has serious guidelines: FOR WOMEN • No slacks because they immodestly reveal the feminine contours of upper leg, thigh and hip.

• No make-up.

• No jewellery except wedding ring and wristwatch.

• No low necklines.

• No sleeveless dresses and shirts.

• No very tight or very thin clothes.

• No dress hemlines at or above the knees.

• No sleeves above the elbow.

FOR MEN: • No uncut hair • No hair covering the top of a man’s ears.

• No hair touching a man’s collar.

For many men going to church is unmanly...definitely not in conformity with stereotypically masculine traits. Being with the boys, drinking bottle after bottle of beer, pushing aside domestic responsibilities- those are the ‘in-vogue’ thing. The list is long, but the “lady has to understand.”

Recently I ran afoul of one sponger. I had finished my GT beer and I said aloud, “See you guys, I have to go to

church tomorrow.”

The silence was deafening. Then the parasite burst into raucous laughter, alerting everyone around of my perceived indiscretion of going to church. Whether it

IX was derision or opprobrium, this Catholic does not want to know.

Suffice it to say that I attended Mass the next day and gratefully accepted the wafer from Monsignor Terrence Montrose. As I walked back to my seat I saw rows and rows of empty pews and wondered if and when they would be filled again.

Perhaps the little boy and his sister, sitting next to me would herald a renaissance.

X

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

CHRISTMAS SEASON AT THE PALMS

By Francis Quamina Farrier

CHRISTMAS decorations have already been put up at many private and public places all around the country.

In homes, business places, certain avenues in the city and institutions, including the Palms on Brickdam.

Christmas music is also being played on the Radio Stations; my favourite is, “Happy Holidays” by the Guyanese group `The Four Lords’.

According to one of the popular Christmas songs, “It’s the most wonderful time of the Year”, and residents of the Palms on Brickdam in Georgetown, look forward to all the wonderful things that occur at that special home for ‘seenagers’, during the Festive Season, when relatives, friends and corporate citizens, drop by with a wide variety of goodies, to bring joy, happiness and a measure of “the

good life”, to those who have made sterling contributions to Guyana, during their younger and more productive years.

The first corporate citizen (of sorts) that kicked off the Christmas Season for the residents of the Palms, was the humanitarian organisation, Food for the Poor. They were there on Friday December 1, 2017, and it was a memorable event with singing and dancing and eating and drinking and jollification. For many of the residents, theirs was not a life of careless living that caused them to be in that institution in their golden years. Many of them still possess talents and abilities which, if tapped into, can still be for the further development of the country. For them, Christmases of the past, were occasions when they gave to others who needed some Christmas cheer.

However, before I continue with this feature of

Resident, Ignatius Dan, 84, was a colleague of mine at William Fogarty's Store, over 55 years ago.

(Photo by Francis Quamina Farrier)

“Christmas Season at the Palms”, let me clarify an issue or two. First, I need to say something about that word, “seenager” which I used earlier. There are those who are 13 to 19 years of age and are known as “Teenagers”. Fifty years later they become “Seenagers” - teenagers who have SEEN so much during a lifespan of over five decades beyond their teen years, and have gained much experience and wisdom over the decades. I am proud to be regarded as a “Seenager”. I’ve seen quite a lot during my almost eight decades on Planet Earth. I have seen my country, for example, transform from a colony where those who ruled and held the top jobs, came primarily from Britain, thousands of miles away. I have seen British Guiana transformed from a colony into a Republic, where the rulers were born right here, and who are expected to give the masses a better deal, and “The Good Life”, as long as they work for it.

While the Christmas Season at the Palms has maintained many of the traditions of the colonial era, such as Christmas buntings and the singing of Christmas carols, there is much more of the Guyanese input, with some corporate citizens, such as Banks DIH Limited, turning up to take Christmas joy to the residents. Unlike the Christmases during the colonial era, at which cotton wool was part of the decor to represent snow, the National colours of Guyana are on display at the Palms.

I would also like to let you know, if you don’t already know, how the Palms got its name. That institution was known as, “The Alms House”, during the colonial years of British Guiana. However, because there were many palm trees lining Brickdam, which is the first street in Georgetown to be upgraded from a mud dam surface to one of bricks, (becoming known as Brickdam), President Forbes Burnham, renamed that institution for the elderly, “The Palms”.

Over the many decades of service to senior citizens who reside there, physical and other shortcomings had to be addressed from time to time. The most recent being a lack of efficient service which residents complained about, as well as the physical condition of some of the wards. It was back in 2015, when then Minister of Social Protection, Hon. Volda Lawrence, made an unannounced visit to the institution, and saw and heard for herself, the complaints of the residents. True to her word, the identified issues were addressed, and there was a much happier Christmas 2015, for the residents of the Palms.

Although I do not visit The Palms very often, whenever I do, I learn quite a lot from those elders, who could be described as human history books. All of these elders have stories to tell, stories of their lives which are part of the Guyana history, stories which can be written and told, not just at Christmas time, but all year round. They tell their very own stories of how they spent Christmas when they were children growing up in British Guiana. That is also a part of our unfolding Guyana history from my observations and information, there will be lots of happiness for the residents of the Palms, during the Christmas Season 2017.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

XI

Sleep and Mental Health TODAY I would like to talk about the importance of sleep - which has more benefits than I believe we all know. Unfortunately, many of us lose sleep over the holidays so I would like to remind everyone just how important it is to get those eight hours. While the eight is recommended for everyone, most people get an average of six hours of sleep per night.

Throughout the day, our brain is basically bombarded with information.

Sleeping gives it the breather to process and store the information we need (and even things we don’t needlike the lyrics to very annoying songs). This means it improves and builds our ability to learn, memory and concentration while it completely energises us.

“Sleep on it” is a common saying as it brings peace, strength and clarity.

It is basically a natural form of resilience.

Additionally, when we sleep, our body goes through physical changes such as decreased body temperature, slowed breathing and heart rate, relaxed muscles – all of which help to improve immune system functioning.

Traditionally, researchers and clinicians believed that issues with sleeping were simply a symptom of other psychiatric disorders. However, after many years of research, not only has it been identified as a cause of many illnesses but over 70 different types of sleep disorders in itself have been identified.

The most common is insomnia which is difficulty falling or staying asleep and sleep apnea which occurs when the individual has obstructed breathing that causes multiple awakenings throughout the night.

One who has a sleeping disorder is more likely to develop other psychiatric illnesses than the general population – some studies show up to four times more. These may include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, substance abuse and even suicidal thoughts and behaviours. PTSD and phobias especially prevent sleep as nightmares are common symptoms of these disorders. Substance abuse will disrupt sleep, especially if the drug of choice is a stimulant.

Lack of sleep can pose a wide variety of both physical and mental problems. One is more at risk for various forms of cancer, heart disease and overall reduced immune functioning with sleep. Additionally, inattentiveness, emotional instability, issues with memory, changes in mood and negative thinking are common symptoms of sleep deprivation.

There are multiple lifestyle changes that can be made to increase our amount and quality of sleep.

Eat and exercise well. These are the basics that promote sleep simply by keeping us energised throughout the day, allowing more of a deep and uninterrupted sleep at night.

Maintain a regular sleep cycle. Your body is a creature of habit and can definitely be trained into a routine. If you make an effort to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, your body will eventually adapt to that schedule.

Try to make your bed a sanctuary for only sleeping.

Many people watch TV, play games or eat in bed which

encourages your body to be potentially prepared for other things when it is time to rest.

Try your best to keep all electronics out of the room.

Try relaxation or deep breathing techniques if you still feel energised even after tucking in. Take deep breaths and

only pay attention to your breathing. This will allow both mind and body to relax.

If you drink caffeine (coffee, energy drinks etc.), ensure that you take none after 17:00hrs. Most know that caffeine will energise the body but many do not realise that alcohol and cigarettes/cigars do the same. While alcohol is a depressant drug and therefore it depresses the central

nervous system which can help you to fall asleep, the jolt when the system ‘wakes up’ usually causes the individual to do the same- it affects the quality of your sleep. Cigarettes and cigars are stimulant drugs which means they excite the central nervous system, making it more difficult to sleep.

If you have tried the above modifications and still do not get sufficient sleep, please go to your nearest health centre and share your concerns. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to ensure better rest.

Remember to get your rest!

Thank you for reading and please send in any questions, comments or topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com.

Also please remember when you can come see me.

Georgetown Public Hospital: Monday- Friday – 08:00hrs- 12:00hrs Woodlands Hospital: Outpatient Department Drug and Alcohol group meetings - Mondays 16:00hrs Good mental health group meetings- Wednesdays 16:00hrs Suicide Prevention Helpline – 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

XII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

#SupportCreativity

‘Universal Belonging’ examines the diasporic experience at Art Basel Miami

WITH Art Basel Miami now in full swing, several art fairs have opened their galleries and booths to eager audiences. Earlier this week Prizm presented ‘Universal Belonging’, its fifth edition of global programming that unravels and explores complexities inherent in transcultural dialogue.

The exhibition, curated by Director Mikhaile Solomon, delves into how Africa and its diaspora preserve a sustainable dialogue with its identity in the wake of these transcultural dynamics, by sharing an array of narratives shaping the diasporic experience in widespread geographies including Iran, Egypt, Nigeria, the Caribbean and the United States.

These narratives lay a sturdy foundation for a contemporary conversation that analyses colonialism, examines modes of cultural adaptation and makes positive prescriptions for cultural resiliency transcending invasive agendas that limit the exchange of positive trans-culturalism. Further, it is done in a manner that honours difference whilst acknowledging histories that have led to our current transcultural state.

Exhibitors for this year’s edition of the Prizm Art Fair include Adrian Richards, Akilah Watts, Alfred Amadu Conteh, Amber Robles-Gordon, Andre Leon Gray, Andrea Chung, Anina Major, Ayana Evans, Basil Kincaid, Anthony Olubunmi Akinbola, Carmen Neely, Christopher Carter, Dareece J.Walker, Deborah Jack, Delano Dunn,

Larry Cook, Reparations, 2017 (Edition: 1/3), direct polymetal print Photo courtesy of Prizm

Nathaniel Lewis, Nazanin Noroozi, Nicole Awai, Nyugen Smith, Olalekan Jeyifous, Onajide Shabaka, Oneika Russell, Olivier Holzl, Philip A. Robinson Jr., Richard Mark Rawlins, Rick Ulysse, Rodell Warner, Rose Marie Cromwell, Sharon Norwood, Shawn Theodore, Sheena Rose, Sheila Pree Bright, Shervone Neckles, Simone Asia, Stephen Towns, Tauliaut Henri, Terry Boddie, T Eliott Mansa, Tsedaye Makonnen, Vaughn Spann, Vicke Pierr, Victor Ekpuk, Victoria Idongesit Udondian, Wendell McShine, Wesley Clark, Yadichinma Ukoha-Kalu and Zeal Harris.

Prizm Art Fair, an annual event designed to coincide with Miami Art Week, takes place over the course of two weeks with additional programming running throughout the year.

Delphine Adama Fawundu, Dominique Hunter, David Gumbs, Ezra Wube, Francks Deceus, Ibrahim Ahmed, Helina Metaferia, Ifeatuanya Chiejina, Jamea Richmond Edwards, Jared McGriff, Jeannette Ehlers, La Vaughn Belle, Katherine Simóne Reynolds, Kearra Amaya Gopee, Kennis Baptiste, Kishan Munroe, Larry Cook, Leonardo Benzant, Llanor Alleyne, Louise Mandumbwa, Loyiso Mkize, Margaret Rose-Vendryes, Mario Moore, Mark King, Maya Amina, Morel Doucet, Musa Hixson, Nahid Navab,

Adrian Richards, Future King, 2016 digital photograph.

Photo courtesy of Prizm

ciousness Whole - Double Cons Basil Kincaid, Black . Photo 17 20 ht, Lig er Our Inn and the Singularity of caid and Prizm courtesy of Basil Kin

Founded by Mikhaile Solomon in 2013, Prizm’s mandate from its inception has always been to expand the spectrum of exhibiting international artists from Africa and the African Diaspora, and emerging markets that connect to the African Diaspora and reflect global trends in contemporary art. Each year the fair rotates location, working with curators to present salient works in solo presentations that highlight the diversity in contemporary visual art practices.

Mikhaile Solomon (born and raised in Miami, Florida) is of Caribbean heritage, with parents from the island of St. Kitts–Nevis. She is a graduate of Florida International University’s Graduate programme in Architecture and completed her undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts at the University of South Florida. In 2013, Solomon founded Prizm Art Fair and has since served as the establishment’s director.

‘Universal Belonging’ opened to the general public on December 6, 2017, and will continue until December 17, 2017, at the Mana Contemporary Downtown, Miami.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

XIII

Conquering suspected cervical cancer…

How one woman is using her herbal remedy to help others THREE years ago, 32-year-old Princess Cosbert - a healthy and energetic cosmetologist became ill. Her hair started falling and she became thin. Within a matter of weeks, her health deteriorated rapidly. She became so ill that someone had to bathe and feed her.

It was finally time to visit the doctor and put a name to her illness. Though she was

Cosbert gives NAREI’s CEO one of her teas to sample

Some of Cosbert’s teas

somewhat nervous—she wasn’t expecting the worst. After an examination and hours of waiting, the mother of one was told what no one wants to hear—she might have cervical cancer.

Refusing to accept this news, the once bouncy woman went to a few other doctors to get other opinions but they all said the same thing!

All the doctors recommended a biopsy to confirm whether or not she had cervical cancer—since she was showing all the symptoms.

“I refused to do the test because I only heard I might have cancer and I was so worried and scared so if they confirmed it, I know I would be worst off,” Cosbert recalled.

Having lived with a herbalist dad, the mother of one said she went home and called her father and explained to him what was happening to her. “He told me to make some things and drink it and I started with garlic tea.”

DETERMINATION As the days went by, Cosbert, who was determined to see her only son off

to university, said with her father’s help, she lived on Guyana’s natural herbs for months to come. “I followed my father’s recipe to the strictest. I ate what he told me to eat and I drank what he said I should.”

Some of the natural remedies she used include: Moringa, Tulsi, lemon leaves, teasam and garlic. “After I use these things I notice I started feeling better and when I felt like my old self again, I went and I did the test,” she said.

The 32-year-old woman said when she finally got the test results, she jumped for joy when the doctors told her she did not have cervical cancer.

“I was a cosmetologist but that moment when I heard I didn’t have cancer, right away I wanted to help other persons beat cancer. While I am not sure I had cancer, all the doctors told me it was suspected cancer and they all seemed convinced it was cancer,” she said.

SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE Having had such a close encounter with cancer, Cosbert has now turned her experience into a small business to help other persons. She runs a small herbal business and sells herbal tea, health bars and herbal supplements.

The mother of one said she started making herbal tea after a friend tasted it and recommended that she added it to her line of other herbal products. It has been a year now since she introduced the tea and the response has been overwhelming.

“I would normally mix everything and

put it in a cloth and then put it in the pot to boil and when my friend tasted it, she enjoyed it so another day, I took a Lipton tea bag, threw out the content, put my own mixture and sealed it back—and the tea was lovely,” Cosbert said.

Since then, she has not stopped making the herbal tea. She also makes Soursop tea.

Her products, packaged under “Nature’s Finest” are available in supermarkets throughout the country, including, Nigel’s, Survival, Andrews and Real Value supermarkets, and the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC).

Cosbert displayed her products at the recent Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition held at the Lusignan Centre Ground, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

There she met with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute

(NAREI)’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Oudho Homenauth and explained some of the challenges she experiences in making her products.

For one, she said that while there is a market for the tea, she is in need of a processing machine but the investment is too high. Because she does everything manually, she recently lost a market in the United Kingdom.

“The customer wanted 3,000 boxes of the teas every month but I cannot supply him,” she said. Dr. Homenauth offered to help her grind some of her products at NAREI’s Mon Repos office.

Over the years, NAREI has been promoting the usage of traditional remedies, including moringa, soursop and ginger among others, for treatment.

These plants have healing properties.

Woman power XIV

I stopped at the corner that accommodates the Sophia-Stabroek bus park, which as usual, was shadowed in semi-darkness. Motor traffic was stalled because a maniac mini-bus tout was demanding “his space.” With an object in his hand, no one was disputing his claim. But he had the stage and the obviously alcohol-induced imbecile was not ready to take the bow.

Just outside my vehicle’s window a tall, thin man and his female companion whispered conspiratorially pointing at a capacious handbag on a woman’s shoulder. They walked in unison and right away something about the way in which they moved

to the crowd and flanked her, signaled that treachery was afoot.

The man was watching the intended victim sideways and the accomplice was swearing and fidgeting unnaturally.

A sliver of some kind of food particle was stuck between two of his teeth and the tip of his tongue was working assiduously to dislodge it. However, he had to resort to an obviously well-used toothpick to complete the job.

Nicotine-stained fingers played with a stringy beard while troubled eyes protruded menacingly. Flared nostrils and a cleft chin completed the foreboding look.

His partner had a perpetually sour expression, and although

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

she appeared too young, the pained look depicted a woman in the throes of some kind of trauma. Unruly hair was held in place by a grimy bandanna; big, protruding ears like sentinels at attention.

She was thin and haggard. Cheekbones that bore evidence of some kind of eczematous scabs, took every opportunity to express their prominence as she fussed and ‘carried on.’

The charade was about to begin. The woman would engineer an argument claiming that the woman with the bag had deliberately ‘mashed’ her foot and damaged her new pair of shoes.

In the ensuing ruckus, the slimy companion would intervene in a faked attempt to forestall an altercation. The victim’s bag and/or gold jewelry would then disappear along with the two con artists.

An alarm in the woman’s head seemed to sound, and before the last ring had faded away, she had connected a right fist to the man’s Adam’s apple and registered her right knee onto his private parts.

He grunted in pain, unable to decide which bruised area to clutch in delayed protection. All he could do was fall on his knees then squat gratefully on the wet pavement, his flowered shirt billowing in the sharp night breeze.

The bony vixen in the meantime had rushed forward spitting curses and gobs of saliva which however fell way short of their mark. Kicking and screaming, she attempted to rake the victim’s face with pointed fingernails that had heavy grime around the cuticles.

The victim sidestepped and slapped her hard on the right cheek, before grabbing her behind the neck and effortlessly heaving her into a hillock of industrial garbage that lay scattered and unattended in a gutter.

She heard a noise behind her and spun around to face a new threat, immediately lowering her center of gravity and bouncing lightly on the balls of her feet, just in case she had to dodge or move in a hurry.

But she didn’t have to worry. It was Mr. Con scrambling to his feet, beating a hasty retreat unconcerned about his accomplice’s fate.

Capless now, he scratched his bald head, looking like a bemused punter who had just seen a sure winner turn into a certain loser.

The sound of cheers from a small crowd nearby rented the air as the victor used her fingers to brush back into place the few strands of curly brown hair that had strayed from her scalp.

Some of the on-lookers were expressing their relief at being rid of the dangerous duo, while others were applauding the ease with which the unflustered young woman had removed an irritant.

“Good riddance to bad rubbish,” someone intoned.

“You know how many people they set up and rob?” another indignant voice enquired.

“Thank you, Soldier Girl. You’ve done this area a favor.”

This from a wizened old woman with a massive reddish-brown wig, balanced precariously on her head.

The mini-bus tout was back to his tugging and pulling.

The female soldier sighed, seeming to accept that some things were unavoidable, even if they demanded a divergence from normative behavior and practice.

She picked up her big bag and a pocket Bible that had fallen out of it.

I was embarrassed. I had done nothing to help the young woman who no doubt would have had sleepless nights while prepared to defend the country and people like the con duo… and me.

I stammered: “Can I offer you a lift?”

A quick once-over and she replied: “No thank you, I’m going to walk.”

She was imbued with confidence. The Bible had lain open at a marked page which began with the words: “Because they trust in Him, He helps them and delivers them from the plots of evil men.”- Psalm 37:40.

folklore

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

MASSAGE THERAPY THE seawall is a permanent feature of the coastal landscape of Guyana. This is because the coast is approximately six feet below sea level. Were it not for this structure, most of the coastland would be reclaimed by the marauding ocean.

The “walls” as it is popularly called, are also a popular place of recreation for all ages. When most others have gone home the young couples appear. They head straight for some of the most secluded spots to spend their time. The only thing that disrupts their activities are the high and spring tides.

Natalie and Philip were regular visitors to this area. They had gotten to know each other quite intimately during their many sojourns there. At all hours of the night and wee hours of the morning, couples could be seen enjoying the beauty and privacy of the seawall. These two teenagers ignored warnings from their parents and kept going to this location. They were cautioned about robbers, rapists and ‘jumbie’. Nothing deterred them.

Eventually, their parents gave up trying to keep them away from the sea walls.

That Saturday night, the two young lovers first visited KFC and ate a hearty meal. After leaving that establishment, they boarded a minibus and headed for their favourite roost.

It was 22:30hrs when they exited the bus and walked the short distance to their usual spot.

The area they chose was dark and partly hidden by an old rotting workstation. They slipped behind the building and settled down for an exciting night. Little did they know that the excitement would be much greater than any of their own special moments.

It was a moonless night and the two were soon getting very cozy. Neither of them had any shyness issues, that had long passed.

Soon they were oblivious to the cold wind coming off of the retreating water. Suddenly, Natalie stopped Phillip, telling him she needed to ‘use the bathroom’.

They slipped out of their hideout. She headed in the direction of some trees. Phillip returned to their spot and sat waiting impatiently. She seemed to be taking longer than usual. Just as he was about to go looking for her, he felt her hands on his neck and shoulder giving him a sensual massage. He sighed and relaxed. I felt too good to be interrupted.

“I didn’t know you could give such a great massage,” he said.

“Yes, I can,” she replied in a low purr.

“Why your hands so cold though?” he enquired.

“Breeze chilly, an is a long, long, time I ain’t do this massage,” she said.

“How long, baby?”

“About 150 years,” she replied

He burst out laughing at the joke and turned to playfully grab her. He got a nasty shock. It was his girlfriend’s voice all right, but not her body. The woman standing there looking down at him was the ugliest creature he had ever seen. Her hands were longer than usual with fingers long enough to circle his neck. The curved, vicious nails were the things that caught and held his attention. She was one big, old, grotesque-looking ‘jumbie’.

With eyes sunken well back into her head and lips blacker than charcoal, she smiled seductively at him flashing teeth that were multi-coloured and pointed. As far as he was concerned they were good for only one thing; tearing flesh. His flesh. He passed out with fright and flopped listlessly on the sand.

Meanwhile, while stooped in the bushes, Natalie felt familiar hands begin to caress her neck and shoulders. It was a great massage and she smiled at Phillip’s boldness. His hands moved expertly and a wonderful sensation coursed through her body. She closed her eyes and relaxed. She made no move to get up. She was feeling too good and decided to let it go on.

“Phillip, you never tell me you know to massage,” she said.

“You never asked,” he retorted.

“You right. Who train you to do this?”

“Me plantation master,” he replied.

She grinned and rose slowly. Turning, she stuck her tongue out playfully at him.

She looked right into the hideous face of a ‘jumbie.’ What was worse is that it was sticking its tongue out at her too. And what a tongue it had. It was long, black and very alive. It began exploring her neck and upper back like a hyperactive snake.

“Eeeeeaaah!”

Her scream tore through the silence of the sea walls and jolted Phillip to consciousness. He looked stupidly around him trying to collect his thoughts. Help was at hand for that. A grinning spectre appeared at his side caressing him. Instantly everything came back to him. He was too petrified to scream, he just wanted out. With a charge that would make the Light Brigade proud, he crashed through the wall of the building and headed for the lights a few hundred metres away. In his terror, he forgot about Natalie. As he ran, he heard her screams and spied her fleeing figure some distance in front of him. There was something odd about her gait. She seemed to be struggling with her pants and he saw a trail of liquid left in her wake. Little did he know that she had not really gone to the bathroom until that very moment.

By Neil Primus

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

All I want for Christmas is a CG motor bike

By Godfrey Wray

HE sat on the ground in the darkness, knees drawn up and hugged by long, muscular arms. It was a position of choice; one that he could hold for hours without moving. He was enjoying the gloom; the pitch black nothingness of which people seemed so afraid.

If only they knew what comfort one could derive from embracing the black void, he mused. If only they knew how all the senses became so attuned and acute in an undisturbed, friendly atmosphere.

As if on cue he closed his eyes, willing himself to concentrate on every sound: his own breathing; the noises of the city; the ambient sounds of the night. English was his best subject and even though school was a thing

of the past, he remembered his teacher asking him to read a passage that had a particular poignant sentence: The night is dark, though the stars shine. So succinct, he reflected.

At first, darkness seemed to be claustrophobic and compressing but as he became habituated to the solitude, more and more he sought its influence. And, strangely enough, the acceptance had its benefits and advantages.

He looked around. Having developed remarkable night vision from constantly living in a house without electricity, he could see every object clearly outlined in the small oval room and even beyond in the corridor that snaked into the rear.

A bolt slid harshly. Hands akimbo, his mother appeared.

“Shawnie, I know you ain’t sleeping. You

better bring back ‘a raise’ when you go on the road today. Other children does help their family, what about you, you’re the oldest.”

That subliminal message was not lost on him Each word penetrated like a dagger and the adrenaline immediately began to pump in Shawn’s veins. Gone was the dreamy casualness as he crouched in the shadows of the washed-out double-panelled blinds.

The 19-year-old was transformed. That special visceral thrill was back. And not even those who thought they knew him well would guess that their genteel high school mate had crossed a line of no return. It was at that point that he had decided to become a permanent member of the burgeoning ‘CG motorcycle gang’ that was relieving people of their money on the way from commercial banks. The offer had been made by Kevin, his friend, the fearless gang leader.

The Honda CG 125 is a commuter motorcycle that was made by Honda of Japan. It was in production from 1976 to 2008. Then it eventually moved to Brazil and Turkey. The CG125 was developed from the CB125 for Third World markets. Due to the design success, several direct copies of the CG125 have sprung up (mostly from Chinese and Korean manufacturers ).

It’s the bike of choice for the young motorised thieves in Guyana. It’s a veritable scourge, and thankfully one that the local police are working overtime to eviscerate.

There is nothing more heart-rending than having your savings snatched from you and having to look on helplessly as brazen, unconscionable bandits dodge and slice their way to their horizons with audacious dexterity.

To blunt this craze, the police must adopt their own ‘War of the Flea’ tactics to dismantle this ubiquitous threat. Robert Taber’s timeless analysis would tell you to keep hitting the enemy here, there and everywhere to disturb their modus operandi. Today’s CG bandits

are yesterday’s ‘trunkers’. They are getting bolder. Law enforcement must now be more proactive; not just reactive.

Within two weeks, Shawn had become champion biker, adroit and fearless. His reassuring words to all his pillion riders were: “Hold tight, I’ll get you there.”

He was pleased with himself. His brandnew CG was always polished. He now had more money than he had ever dreamed of and he had more girls than he could handle.

His mother was now treating him like royalty, obvious questions unasked. The ghetto grandiosity was in full flow.

Four successful bank robberies in two weeks. That was a record. But NOTHING lasts forever.

Shawn began to have the uneasy feeling that someone was keeping tabs on him but despite extra vigilance, he could not spot anything out-of-order.

Until one night he noticed a black hearselike vehicle pull up alongside his bike on Cemetery Road, and two bullets ripped through his body. A man with size 12 boots turned the body over and said to no one in particular: “You robbed the wrong man, Bro.” Nothing else moved along the dark, lonely conduit. No birds chirped, and not even a soft rustle of breeze designed to disturb the trees. Then, unresponsive fingers slipped off the motor cycle’s throttle. Rider and bike lay unmoving under a colossal palm tree.

The wind now carried a plaintive sound. A few scattered leaves blew along the roadway.

In the distance, a rotted palm branch fell. And suddenly a fat grey cat bolted from a culvert, eyes glistening in the dark.

At the funeral service, a ‘sympathy’ card was slipped to Shawn’s mother. A note inside told her what to do and when. It was signed ‘The Chief.’

Another chapter was about to begin and Shawn’s 18-year-old brother, Kevin, was eager to get among the dollars.

A role model for young girls Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

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Miss Bartica Regatta 2017, Gabriella Chapman

By Tamara Tucker IN April this year, 21-yearold Gabriella Chapman was crowned Miss Bartica Regatta 2017. The stunning beauty later represented Guyana at the 56th Jaycees International Queen Show.

Now back home, Gabriella is on a mission to establish a Foundation as she seeks to inspire young girls to have self-confidence and enhance social behavior, thereby allowing them to be positive role models for their fellow peers, relatives, schools and communities.

This young and aspiring future journalist who is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications at the University of Guyana said that the launch of her ‘Girl Build Girl’ Foundation will be held on December 21 at the National Cultural Centre.

She stated that the new Foundation aims not only to empower young girls from all as-

Gabriella Chapman

pects and backgrounds but to create a bond with each other to work together in sisterhood and team spirit in overcoming insecurity, bullying, depression, suicidal trends, sexual abuse, violence and illiteracy.

Gabriella also described herself

as being a role model where she can be able to motivate young girls to be who they want to be and help them with their goals and future

Gabriella during the Miss Bartica Regatta Pageant

desires while making a positive change even if it’s in one girl’s life. ‘’Each one, reaches one and teaches one,” she said, adding that the Foundation will allow young girls to be guided in acknowledging the importance of their future, education and staying in school, and to let them see they have greater worth regardless of whatever challenges, backgrounds, or difficulties they may be facing.

She added that the ‘Girl Build Girl’ Foundation will not be just about meeting and interacting with these young girls but also will have group activities and discussions and various volunteers and meeting with other persons who are experienced and qualified in various fields to educate the young girls more on every aspect of life.

Gabriella said that the need to establish the foundation came after she started a blog on Youtube and Instagram where she posted videos as a platform to express her views that she believes that somehow serve as guidance to young girls. But later, she realised that she could do more than just post videos to help make an impact in their lives.

The young woman is very passionate about her new venture and hopes that it will be a success.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

What not to do to pets during the festive season

By Dr. Steve Surujbally AS you read this, the Festive Season and the New Year are just around the proverbial corner. Therefore, today we will advise on what not to do to pets during the Festive and post-Festive Seasons.

Actually, there are many who see Christmas and the immediate post-Christmas period as a bacchanalian rite and a heathen splurge that have nothing to do with the birth of Christ; such persons feel that prayer and meditation should be the order of the day. The pets of this latter category fall on lean times during this period. Let’s look at some of the “No – No’s” during the Festive Season, as they relate to pets.

OVERFEEDING It seems that many humans have this fixation with overstuffing themselves before, during and immediately after the Festive Season. It often follows that such pet owners feel that their wards must also gorge themselves full with huge quantities of food (or residues therefrom).

Well, that is wrong. Dogs and cats couldn’t care less if there is no boxing on Boxing Day and no garlic pork/beef on Christmas Day. They would be just as happy if they received their usual bland fare.

I’ll share with you something of interest that I was taught at a Refresher Course/Further Education Series at which I participated some time ago. The lecturers advised us that over 50 percent of all ailments among pets stem from incorrect nutrition. Well, that figure must be 80 percent around the Christmas period. The problem is that the vet (who is also human and who wishes to spend prime time with his/ her family) has to prise himself/herself from a favourite chair/recliner to look after a pet which has just developed a (to the owner) “life-threatening” malady, which is, in truth, just a reaction (vomiting?) to a piece of chocolate, or plain bellyache from over-engorgement, or some such incorrect bit of feeding.

Of course, since no veterinarian (well, with some few expectations) can tell the flustered client to go to hell on Christmas Day, he/she has to deal with the product of the owner’s careless feeding of the pet(s). In all likelihood, the stomach pain will soon subside, but the pet owners cannot be consoled (at least not over the phone); they must see the vet.

SCARING PETS WITH EXPLOSIVES Last week, we dealt at length with this bit of inhumane wretchedness. However, since this example of barbarism is so pervasive at Christmas and at other celebratory activities, we feel that it is worthy of repetition to again mention that the selling, purchase and using of squibs and other explosive devices to terrorise animals (and humans) is illegal and extremely hurtful and harmful to creatures great and small.

BATHING Generally speaking, dogs should not be bathed often.

Cats (who groom themselves constantly) hardly ever (like never!) need baths — unless, of course, if they fall into a filthy gutter or cesspit. I will deal with this non-need for pet bathing on another occasion.

It seems that pet owners, having totally cleaned up their homes for Christmas, feel compelled to remain in the cleaning mode/mood. Consequently, the cleaning frenzy is on!

“Rover”, the dog and “Felix” the cat get dunked into the big basin or drum of water, or they are shoved — kicking, screaming, growling, hissing and biting — under the standpipe in the yard. Of course, getting the dog/cat dry might morph into a special difficulty — especially during the December rains. The problem becomes worse if the animal is placed in a room with a draught. A “cold” might result.

If a pet-owner has this fixation to clean the pet’s coat, just comb and brush it. The brushing stimulates the blood circulation under the skin. More nutrients are brought into the area of the hairs’ roots. The hairs (fur) become stronger and glossier — especially since you are not (via baths) washing away natural oils that are on the skin.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

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MAXX Band to be launched today

MAXX Band, featuring a group of young talented individuals, will be launched today (Sunday) at the opening of the FoodMAXX Supermarket at the Giftland Mall.

While the new band is made up of some new faces, it also features seasoned performers and musicians like Abel Stokes, Daniel DeSouza and Eleazar Thibaud who had originally formed a smaller unit called A.C.E.D. Nicholas Chung from Feed the Flames, Kelly Valenzuela from Venezuela, Trevaun Selman, Stanton Duff who comes from a background of musical parents, Catasha Rodrigues, Scarlet Singh, and comedian Chris Gopaul who is the reigning ‘Uncensored’ champion, will also make up the band.

The decision to join MAXX was an easy one for Abel since he sees it as a way to get people more publicly aware of his talent. Although he prefers to sing his own music, he

Local Actor Chris Gopaul wanted to sing on a professional stage since age 10

doesn’t mind doing covers until he is ready to release his songs.

Scarlet, who is currently in medical school, and is a featured singer at the Princess Casino every weekend, doesn’t necessarily see herself singing as a career but loves the way she can express herself through this medium. She feels that this is the only thing that makes her happy.

Funnyman Chris Gopaul, who is known for his numerous stage performances, is ecstatic about the opportunity since he has been waiting since he was 10 years old to sing on a professional stage.

The band will be performing for the guests at the opening of supermarket from 5 pm and will open with a rock/retro segment and close off with the R&B and pop genres.

They have already been booked to perform on a regular basis on the Entertainment Strip at the Giftland Mall and will also be performing jazz, blues, soca and reggae segments on different nights.

The MAXX Band features a group of young talented individuals

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Social Work students bring aesthetic boost to Lamaha Park

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

The new Welcome Sign to Lamaha Park

By Shirley Thomas

THE University of Guyana’s final year Social Work students have broken new ground and set the stage for solid bonding with the residents of Lamaha Park, East La Penitence, with the construction and ceremonial unveiling and presentation of a new ‘Community Name Sign’ and street signs for that community.

The ceremony was held on Sunday, at the northern entrance to Lamaha Park. Conducted over a 10-week period, the initiative was a Faculty of Social Sciences Final Year Project for DSW 4104 Community Practice, and was undertaken by five students under the astute leadership of Kimberly Conway, the lone resident of Lamaha Park in the group.

Other members of the group, termed the “Fabulous Group of Five” which worked to design and get the project going, bringing it to a successful completion and in record time were: Shelisa Comacho-Khan (Secretary); Marcia Grannum, Ashanti Jasper, and Joumal Johnson. They were ably assisted by volunteers from the community , all of whom were given tokens of appreciation for their efforts on the day of the ceremony.

Among the distinguished persons joining the organising students and residents of Lamaha Park in celebration of the momentous occasion were: The Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, Reginald Brotherson, A.A: Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, CCH; Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson; Bishop Timothy Norton of God’s Cathedral of Praise, Lamaha Park and DSW 4104 lecturer, Debbie Hopkinson.

Funds to complete the project were achieved by generous donations from civic-minded persons and entities, among whom were: The Department of Public Service, Ministry of the Presidency, American Home Tile and Stone which donated the tiles for the Community Name Sign, along with donations from a few private residents for miscellaneous expenses over the 10-week period.

Kimberly Conway, in giving an overview of the project said that the group was tasked with identifying a need in a community of their choice and fulfilling it, and after some perusal, decided on the new sign and street signs. The project was also punctuated with the beautification of the entrance to Lamaha Park and placement of litter bins.

Vice Chancellor Griffith, in his remarks, referred to the initiative as a significant step in enabling the community to be beautified. He initiated a round of applause for the social workers, for all the sponsors, contributors and residents who helped to make the project happen, while calling on the residents to make a verbal commitment to show respect for the job that was undertaken.

Declaring that the collaboration is a demonstration of what social work in action is all about, the Vice Chancellor urged residents to take pride in, and keep the area and signs presented by them in good shape.

The Vice Chancellor reasoned that the work of the social work students could not have actualised the project by itself, but necessitated collective action. And on this note, he painstakingly admonished the residents to maintain its beautification and not to undo the work of the students and sponsors. He also exhorted them to each take ownership and the responsibility to keep the environment in pristine beauty.

Meanwhile, Mayor Chase-Greene remarked that it was indeed a pleasure to be participating in the small but very significant ceremony. She congratulated the students for their hard work and dedication to realise their dream and congratulated the residents as well, for the work done on bringing about such an ambience that now besets the area, admitting how smart it looks. “If we look at the surroundings, it is beautiful, let’s keep it that way,” she told residents.

The Mayor, graciously opened on a note of making a commitment that everything that was promised on her campaign trail will be delivered. “I know that on our campaign trail we did promise streets, roads, water, street signs.” She, however, said, that the reality is the Council could not afford to deliver everything that was asked for, in a short period of time.

She explained that over time, the Council has been working with other organisations, but assured the residents that they will get what was promised.

OTHER PROJECTS And in relation to the bridge linking Lamaha Park to Festival City, which is in a state of disrepair, the Mayor expressed concern that just recently a child had fallen through that bridge and suffered injury. She promised to look into that matter, also, adding that the municipality would welcome partnership to have such projects undertaken. But, Permanent Secretary, Reginald Brotherson was adamant that it should be a matter of priority. “We petitioned for telephones and we got it. We petitioned for Turn to page XXVI ►►► lights, roads and electricity and got them. We petitioned

Posing with the ‘Fabulous Group of Five’ is Mayor Patricia Chase Green (at centre). On her left is lecturer, Debbie Hopkinson and Vice Chancellor Ivelaw Griffith. Second from left is P.S. Reginald Brotherson along with students (from left) Joumal Johnson, Ashanti Jasper, Kimberly Conway, Shelisa Comacho-Khan and Marcia Khan

The Journey

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

Using the Arts to inspire self-discovery

By Clinton Duncan

eighth concert.

“UPON the subject of education,” Abraham Lincoln firmly stated, “I can only say that I view it as the most important subject which we as a people may be engaged in.” In fact, research suggests that adult support may be the single most important aspect of how children succeed in school and life.

Guyana has been known to produce some of the best and most compassionate educators in the world, but as the old adage says, “It takes a village”, so it definitely sparked my interest when I found out that Theatre Personality, Keon Heywood decided to put his formal teaching days behind and work with kids in a more “artistic way”.

Mr. Heywood is attached to the Tina Insanally Foundation (TIF) as their Choir Director and is busy readying the children to put on their annual Christmas showcase which is being held today. We thought it suitable to have a quick “Q and A” session with him on his work and how he uses the Arts to inspire the children.

TIF was formed in 2010 by Vic’ & Pat’ Insanally (as the children refer to them) in memory of their daughter Tina who passed away suddenly. With a mission to enhance the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across Guyana through exposure to music, TIF provides resources and educational opportunities under the executive direction of Patricia Insanally.

Where do the children come from?

How long have you been working on this project?

“I have been working at TIF since July 2015. I was playing ‘the Scarecrow’ in Collette Jones – Chin’s the wizard of OURZ, TIF was looking for a new Choir Director, and one of the boys from St. John’s Bosco Boy’s Home who sang in TIF’s choir, and was also a part of the Wizard of OURZ suggested to Mrs Insanally that they use the scarecrow. I got called in for an interview and I’ve been there ever since.”

What do you think are skills that you would have had to exercise in working with the Children?

We have two choirs, an all-girls choir from St. Ann’s home, with students from age six to 12 years, then we have a mixed senior choir from ages 12- 16. Working with each group has its own challenges. People learn at different paces and sometimes the task could be quite challenging.

It requires you to be creative, to practice patience. Some students need more encouragement than others and so very often you have to go the extra mile, and find different ways to reach each student.

So how would you describe your purpose in the programme?

I see my role as the facilitator of a unique process, where students come and find their voice.

How long have you been in the arts?

My journey in the Arts started with dance in 2004. Then I joined the Theatre Guild in 2010. I’ve [also] been singing ever since Sunday School.

How long have you been teaching?

I started teaching in 2010. I graduated from Cyril Potter College of Education in 2013 but started teaching in 2010. I believe my experience in teaching high school students has helped prepare me for my job at TIF. Working with at-risk students is truly a joy and dream come through.

So, it was such a dream, then, why did you leave teaching to pursue the Arts?

Once you’ve been bitten by the teaching bug, it’s hard to stop teaching. Teaching is something I love and intend to do for the rest of my life. How I teach or where I teach may change, but once you’re a teacher, you’re always a teacher. I simply teach differently now. I spent six years teaching English and IT at Carmel Secondary, and it was a life changing experience. Some of my students at Carmel came from at-risk communities, and during my time there I used dance and music in my lessons. I discovered that it

They come from the St. Ann’s Home for Girls, St. John’s Bosco Boy’s Orphanage, Bless the Children Home, the Ruimveldt Children’s Aid Centre and other students who are not in the homes.

What is the biggest obstacle to the children’s transformation?

Fear. Some students take a bit longer to open up than others, and most of the time I’ve discovered that they are afraid and they lack the confidence. That’s why it’s important to create a safe environment for children. I always tell my students that’s it’s okay to make mistakes in the classroom because we can use those experiences to learn and grow. The trial and error process is fascinating.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned from it?

not only helped them learn better, but something else was happening with the students; they became more confident and their behaviour changed positively. I saw what it did for the students at Carmel so, when I got the call to join the staff at TIF I saw it as a wonderful way to combine my love for the Arts and Education.

Was it a valuable move?

It was a valuable move. Although there are days when I miss the traditional classroom, I don’t regret it. I work at TIF part-time and I have grown not only as a teacher but as an artist and as an entrepreneur. Long before I became a teacher, the Arts helped save me. I’ve always been an artist, though I didn’t’ always know or accept it. Through the Arts, I was able to deal with issues in my life. I was able to find catharsis and I said to myself: I’d love to do this for someone else, I’d love to help other people discover what I’ve discovered.’ I am doing what I love with my life. I am using my skills as an artist to bring healing to others and help make the world a better place.

How did you find the transition?

The transition wasn’t easy. You have to develop a whole new mindset. Because I work at TIF part-time, it means I have free time to develop myself as an artist and control how I earn a living. I was moving from a position where most of your day is already pre-set and you don’t have a whole lot of control over what you have to do, to a place where you determine your own course, where you choose the kind of work you do. You make the decision, that’s a lot of responsibility, and you have to really think about things carefully. Working independently means that you are responsible for the success or failure of your projects.

Sometimes I have to refuse work because it may not align with what my focus is at the moment.

What is the main purpose of the concert?

It tells the story of Jesus’s birth and seeks to capture the journey of Mary and Joseph in song. These were two young people with real emotions and they lived in a time which wasn’t very easy; much like our world today. The Nativity Story in song seeks to make the Christmas story relatable and reachable.

How many concerts have been held thus far?

We have had seven concerts thus far. This will be our

The biggest lesson for me is learning to trust the process.

I’ve seen students move from being shy and lacking confidence to being students bursting with personality. You have to remain positive at all times and believe that what you’re putting into the students will help them, even if change takes a long time.

What are the next steps for you in this area?

I want to explore the relationship between Art and Catharsis more deeply. I am in the process of developing a structured model that could be used by vulnerable groups in our society. People can expect to hear and see more of me using the Arts in this regard.

What would you love for the public to know about the programme that would encourage them to come to the show?

This story is a story that we all know, but here you have children and teenagers with stories of their own, who made a journey of their own, much like Joseph’s and Mary’s journey, along a dusty, rocky road but came to a place foretold by God and brought forth something which was simple, but had a huge impact on the world. This year in our show most of the students would be performing in small groups, duets and solos. This is fairly new for the students. Over the years much of our work involved the entire choir. Although we have a few pieces where the whole choir will be performing, a lot of the songs on the show don’t use large groups. Each student would have had to make their own journey of self-discovery. We hope that those coming to the show would be inspired, either by this story of the birth of the Christ child or the journey the students would have made in their lives.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

Musical sensation, Keron Richards

By Michel Outridge

WHEN it comes to music, the sky is the limit for 35-yearold Keron Richards who feels that music is in his blood.

Richards has a long musical resume as a selector, a drummer, a steel pan player and also one of the lead singers in the Yoruba Singers Band which hosts a live-stage show every Friday night at the Guyana National Service (GNS) building on Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown.

The father of one told The Pepperpot that his musical journey started ever since he was a boy when he used to ‘play drums’ by beating the table in his house. He admitted that his passion has always been embedded in playing the drums, though he had no formal training.

He started out working in the El Sadiek Band as a maintenance person after which he joined the EC Connection

On stage with the Yoruba Singers Keron Richards, the singing sensation

Band as the lead singer and moved on with the City Jammers Band.

He later joined the Yoruba Singers Band in 2000 and remains a member of the band to date. He diligently practices with the other members of the band every Thursdays at their Band Room in Laluni Street, Queenstown.

He is a fan of reggae, lover’s rock, oldies and of course soca but would sing any other songs; a hobby which he describes as being "fun".

Richards was also in the Brazilian Band FaMix which used to have live-stage shows in the interior but that band has since returned to their home country.

“You can do anything you want if you put your mind to it,” Richards said, and this belief proves accurate just by Richards' varying musical talents alone.

Yet, his true love is still African drumming. Despite his At his best: Keron practicing African drumming

lack of formal training, the musician can play the drums very well and is usually hired for many functions including weddings, church services and other events.

Apart from music, he works as an electrician, but his main job is music and, and that is the job that not only brings joy to his heart but puts music on the table.

In fact, Richards would sing just about anywhere; at birthday parties, weddings, and ‘wake houses’ once the price is right he does it from 08:00hrs to midnight.

For this inspiring individual, he believes that practice makes perfect and because of this, he is always seeking to sharpen his skills. Moreover, having developed his love for music since he was very young and does not see himself doing anything else.

“Working with people isn’t my thing because from past experiences I did not get paid on time and sometimes I had to wait long for my money and I told himself I do not want to live that way and went about doing my own thing,” Richards said.

Although music takes up much of his time, he wouldn't have it any other way since it gives him that ‘adrenaline’ rush; a spark that will continue to light up his life and is something he can only get better at.

Whenever Richards takes the stage, one simply has to stop and stare to see who is singing because he has a very good voice and with that, he captures the attention of people at any gathering.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

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Dr Dawn Stewart and the work of Monique’s Helping Hands

By Michel Outridge THE multi-talented Dr. Dawn Stewart is passionate about a lot of things but what is clear is her love for people and her desire to mentor, especially those who are depressed and victims of sexual and physical abuse.

She is an avid advocate for suicide prevention in which she provides counselling services to people through her non-governmental organisation (NGO) Monique’s Helping

Dr Dawn Stewart, Founder of Monique’s Helping Hands

Hands.

Stewart, who is a doctor in Environmental Science also has a Masters in Clinical Psychological and a Bachelor’s in Nursing.

She provides counselling services to people who have experienced both mental and physical trauma, have a low self-esteem, were sexually abused, or people who are depressed or feel hopeless.

Dr Stewart believes that victims of sexual abuse, in particular, have a lot of pain bottled up and they need cognitive therapy, that is, psychological help in order for them to be restored to their true self since trauma affects the brain.

She is a part-time lecturer at the University of Guyana (UG) with the recently-launched Psychology Programme and is a full-time counsellor where she sees two to three persons daily at Monique’s Helping Hands.

“I like talking to people, I am a people person and I can relate to almost anyone and I talk to people who are physically challenged, parents, sexually abused victims and others because they are the ones who are hurting and needs to be restored or they will start ‘acting out’,” Dr Stewart told the Pepperpot Magazine.

She related that through counselling people she is of the view that children are sexually abused regularly in our society and that needs to be addressed and it is not only confined to girls.

Dr Stewart stated that boys are sexually abused as well and it is imperative that parents understand how to deal with sexually-abused children.

She explained that in most instances, parents should be

able to recognise the small tell-tale signs that something isn’t right with your child or children.

The mother of five added that parents need to fully understand their role and with sexually abused children their behaviour will become radical. As such, parents need not ‘beat’ them or call them false names but they need to be firm and consistent when disciplining children.

OTHER PASSIONS Dr Stewart is also a grief counsellor at Lyken Funeral Home and is certified in Mortuary Science where she is qualified to practice embalming.

She hosts Mindfulness Therapy classes three times a week and is a full-time counsellor at Monique’s Helping Hands which is located on Norton Street, Georgetown, an

NGO she established in 1999.

The organisation was formed to address social issues as it relates to the HIV/Aids epidemic and they have about 20 volunteers with more than 500 clients.

Dr Stewart said that they try to make people whole again, especially those who are victims of sexual and domestic abuse since these people feel a lot of pain internally, they are frustrated and angry at their trauma.

She revealed that most clients suffered from past trauma be it childhood or in their adult life and the physical and mental abuse often leave scars that are not easily healed which therefore leads to a need for counselling.

Dr Stewart disclosed too, that most clients who were Turn to page XXVIII ►►►

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for that bridge, and we’ve got to get it!”

And in his feature address, Brotherson congratulated the University students and said it was refreshing to see the community spirit ‘alive’ in the gathering for the unveiling of the university students’ gift to the community. “We are gathered here today….

to recognise and pay homage to the work they have done.”

Brotherson said that given the composition of the persons present at the gathering, it was opportune to talk about partnership in the developmental context of the Lamaha Park community. Against this backdrop, he gave a brief overview of the community, noting that its socio-economic environment

Chronicle Pepperpot December 10, 2017

is one that mirrors most of the nation’s communities, having had their formation through incidences of colonialisation, slavery and indentureship.

THE COMMUNITY’S DEVELOPMENT He made the point that citizens should be more actively involved in the advancement of their communities.

Brotherson said that with a population of some 600 from diverse backgrounds, including : civil society- public servants, teachers, entrepreneurs and self - employed residents, it is possible for residents to engage with government ministries, such as the Ministry of Communities, Public Infrastructure and Public Security through residents’ petition for a Community Policing Group and maintenance of the playfield, drainage, alleyways and parapets. He also proposed a road network to facilitate vehicular traffic ingressing and egressing through North Ruimveldt to

the South and Lamaha Springs to the East so that the engagement between the residents and the relevant ministries can be facilitated within the governance framework.

The Permanent Secretary promised to act upon all the recommendations made by the Vice Chancellor adding: “We’ve got to maintain and build upon what many have done before, and now, what this ‘Fabulous Five’ in a more structured and community-spirit participatory way has achieved.”

Meanwhile, DSW 4104 Course Lecturer, Debbie Hopkinson also had kudos for the group of five Social Work students. She expressed pride and satisfaction in the task undertaken and the dedication and energy put into it.

She emphasised that Social Work is not just about meeting people and looking after their problems, adding that social work occurs on a macro level as well as a micro level.

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Forty-nine trained in EPA’s Seventh Annual Environmental Education Workshop for Teachers

EDUCATION is the foundation for progress and teachers are key to laying that foundation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognises competent teachers as an asset in the national and global movement for advancing environmental education and awareness in all spheres of society. This has motivated the introduction of impactful teacher training workshops to stimulate the integration of environmental education into the school curriculum. First conducted in 2009, the teacher environmental education workshop has now become an annual activity on the EPA’s calendar.

The primary beneficiary of the teachers’ workshop is the Cyril Potter College of Education. In previous years, pre-service teachers from the Turkeyen Centre were engaged in four days of the educational nature escape. This year, EPA scaled up the training workshop to include both pre-service and in-service participants from five CPCE centres in the country, namely, New Amsterdam, Anna Regina, Linden, Georgetown, and Vreed-en-Hoop. The camp-in workshop was held during November 15-17, at Camp Wesleyana, nestled in greenery along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway, and saw participation from forty-nine (49) teachers enrolled in CPCE’s Early Childhood/ Primary and Secondary Programmes.

The central focus of the workshop was to enable participants to utilise a variety of methods to successfully infuse environmental education into the main subject areas of the school’s curriculum. Teachers were introduced to core issues affecting the environment, such as climate change, biodiversity, solid waste, and energy. As they engaged in games, worksheets, group work and group presentations, the teachers

Winning team for ‘Best Lesson Plan’

developed a better understanding of possible solutions to tackle these issues. They were also exposed to strategies that they can employ to cultivate positive attitudes and change in their pupils. The natural setting of the workshop served as a constant reminder and learning tool for the indispensable benefits our environment provides.

As the training workshop progressed, the participants showed increasing team-building, critical thinking, analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills. While knowledge-building occupied most of the camp’s schedule, the participants were able to unwind and build social interactions during the traditional talent night and campfire before the final day. Dancing, singing, poetry and folk songs marked a memorable evening under the stars.

On the final day of the workshop, the teachers were challenged to develop actual lesson plans to infuse a given environmental topic into specified subject areas. This exercise was used as an assessment tool of the main objective of the workshop. The facilitators from the Environmental Communication Education and Awareness Programme of the EPA were satisfied that these teachers would be able to chart a new course in our schools to build a citizenry that is aware of the environment and the threats it faces, and will guide students to think about and take actions that are needed for a sustainable future.

The event culminated with the distribution of prizes for the best lesson plan and participation. The winning lesson plan Turn to page XXVIII ►►►

Participants at this year’s workshop

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focused on infusing the topic of energy conservation into a mathematics lesson. The team chose to make their students aware of energy conservation during a lesson on Venn diagrams. It is this kind of innovation that the EPA seeks to elicit each year and this will drive the continuance of this training exercise into the future.

This year’s participants deemed the workshop a success and followed the trend of participants of previous years by expressing the desire for the workshop to be of longer duration and greater frequency.

This is a cue for business, and educational institutions to invest in environmental education by training teachers and take advantage of this definite win-win opportunity. The EPA is willing and ready to provide training expertise for any venture to train teachers in environmental education.

A few comments from participants: “Everything was exceptional” “Environmental education can be included in all subjects - not only science” “The strategies I’ve learnt can be implemented in my classroom” You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. ◄◄◄ From page XXV

sexually abused at a very young age witnessed it at the hands of people they trusted.

She said they assist in referrals, hampers, they have a clothing drive, job placement services, youth programme and work with parents. The NGO is also supported by donations.

Monique’s Helping Hands was named after the daughter of one of their overseas volunteers who was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS when she went for a medical as she was about to join her mother in the US. The young lady subsequently died two years after and did not get to join her mother in the US and in her memory they named the NGO after her.

HER LIFE Dr Stewart left Guyana when she was she was 14 years old when her mother got a scholarship to pursue studies in nursing in the United States (US). The doctor later returned to her homeland in 2010.

Before migrating, a young Dawn grew up living in the police living quarters with her policeman father and her mother who was a nurse. She attended Christ Church Secondary, which she credits as giving her a solid education before migrating.

She is married to the nephew of the co-founder of Lyken Funeral Parlour, which has been in existence for 95 years.

She joined the US Air Force in 1973 as a Lieutenant and served as a nurse until she left as a Major after eight years of service, but later she was deployed as a civilian nurse with Desert Storm and served in several countries such as Saudi Arabia and Germany among others and enjoyed the exposure.

Dr Stewart also worked at the Pentagon as the Director of Safety and Occupational Health when she retired from the Walter Reid Medical Centre in 2007, after she achieved her PhD in Environmental Science.

She is a high functioning individual who is always involved in charity work and is an active member of several overseas organisations.

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English THOUGHT FOR THE DAY I almost had to wait.

LOUIS XIV (1638-1715), Expression of impatience.

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, To locate facts for a project, you sometimes do personal observation which is valuable but, by itself, is not a reliable source. After some experience you will find that individuals’ impressions are often misleading, especially those dealing with people. For instance, lawyers know that two witnesses of the same incident often give widely different reports of what they saw. This is one reason you should not depend upon personal observations to locate facts exclusively. Be wise.

Love you.

Grammar Dangling Modifiers This week we’ll look at dangling modifiers including the dangling participle.

Note: The use of dangling modifiers should always be avoided. To remind you: A dangling modifier is a modifier that is not related logically to some other word in the sentence.

We begin here: 1. The dangling participle: Watching closely, no movement was detected. (Who was listening?)

Better: Watching closely, we detected no movement.

2. The dangling gerund: By leaving now, the traffic jam can be avoided. (Who will be leaving?)

Better: By leaving now, we can avoid the traffic jam.

3. Dangling infinitive: To arrive at a better time, another motor scooter was acquired.

(Who wanted to arrive at a better time?)

Better: To make a better arrival time, we acquired another motor scooter.

4. Dangling elliptical expression: While spreading the bed sheets, the dinner bell was heard. (Was the dinner bell spreading the bed sheet?)

Better: While we were spreading the bed sheets, the dinner bell was heard.

Note: Place modifiers where they will make meaning clear and sensible.

1. Misleading: Tommy has almost read all the fictions on the dormitory shelves. Some are tattered.

Clear: Tommy has almost read all the fictions on the shelves. Some are tattered.

2. Misleading: The house owner spent two hours mending the front garden fence with the handyman.

Clear: With her handyman, the house owner spent two hours mending the front garden fence.

3. Misleading: Zinda watched the funeral procession passing the town hall leaning out a front window.

Clear: Leaning out a front window, Zinda watched the funeral procession passing the town hall.

4. Misleading: We put the goldenapples and five fingers into the bag that we had just bought.

Clear: We put into our bag the goldenapples and five fingers that we had just bought.

5. Puzzling: Clementine told her mother before she came that she had lost her cell phone.

Clear: Before she came, Clementine told her mother that she (Clementine) had lost her cell phone.

Practice and Application Improve the use of modifiers in the sentences that follow. Get rid of the dangling modifiers; move all misleading or squinting modifiers. Go over your work with a study partner.

Waiting here in the bus park, the time really fled.

Malcolm agreed during the Christmas season he would visit his children more regularly.

Cordelia spent two weeks sewing Christmas curtains with her aunt.

The neighbour has almost spray painted all of our plants. All are not of a green colour.

All of the departmental members in church are women. Simon said he just saw a few of them.

The security personnel told Yelena when you were leaving you should inform me.

While viewing “Home Alone – Part One,” a noise completely filled the room overhead.

Word Usage A…Unnecessary words Note: The purpose of language is to communicate and, with this understood, you will in time prefer to use words which get ideas across clearly and forcefully.

Remember that the number of words you use can add up, and since many people don’t like to read, you must take time to rid your writing of unnecessary words. This extra effort pays off: you increase your credibility when your readers know you use words economically and concisely.

Look at the two columns below and learn something from them: Unnecessary Words Concise phrases cheque in the amount of $5,000.00 $5,000.00 cheque at this point in time now I wish to take this opportunity Thank you for . . . to thank you for . . . at all times always for the period of a year annually B…Overused, worn out words Overused words include the following: good awful little big think fix fantastic fine know lovely say come go great Note: Even though these words are abused and overused, they are essential for many occasions.

Something to Do In each of the following sentences substitute for the bold face word a word in the brackets.

Try to understand what each statement is hinting at.

1. Management made a bad forecast of the company’s sales and profits. (inaccurate, misleading) 2. Businesses are always looking for fine young men and women. (competent, motivated, diligent) 3. “We made our quota,” said John. (proclaimed, announced, shouted)

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Bollywood news

Dharmendra at 82 doesn't want to slow down Dharmendra turned 82 on Friday, and Bollywood's 'yamla, pagla, deewana' has no plans to slow down. The veteran actor said he doesn't want to be a lazy person and wants to continue working.

"My passion and love is to work. I love work. Without work, I will be a lazy person. I don't want to be lazy. I want to stay active," Dharmendra told when he was in the capital to shoot international film 'Dream Catcher' earlier this year.

Dharmendra, who traces his roots to Punjab, entered showbiz in 1960 with 'Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere' going on to create an image of Bollywood's He-Man, after Dara Singh. The veteran, who will soon complete 60 years in the industry, has entertained audiences with movies of all genres - from the intense 'Bandini' and 'Satyakam' to potboilers like 'Raja Jani' and 'Pratigya', and as a comic artist with perfect timing in 'Sholay' and 'Chupke Chupke'.

He proved his skills as 'Anupama' and 'Yakeen'. In recent times, he was seen in

'Life In A... Metro', 'Apne' and 'Yamla, Pagla, Deewana'. Dharmendra, married to Bollywood's 'Dream Girl' Hema Malini, is known for his simplicity, humility and for staying connected to his roots. He said he doesn't like comparison between actors.

"I don't compare. I don't want to said 'Barsaat' in 1995, added: 'I can never reach the level my father did'.

Currently, Dharmendra is busy with 'Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se'

Shahid Kapoor thanks Kangana Ranaut for supporting 'Padmavati' Actor Shahid Kapoor, who plays one of the three key characters in 'Padmavati', has thanked his 'Rangoon' co-star Kangana Ranaut for extending her support to the controversial film, and said creative people shouldn't be scared.

Shahid on Thursday night in an event, said, "You feel very grateful that people are supporting you, so I am thankful to Kangana (Ranaut), and to everybody else who has spoken for 'Padmavati', and has been so kind and brave to come out there and express themselves."

"Sometimes there has been anger, sometimes people have been emotional, sometimes they have been very logical

in breaking it down, but there are a lot of people from the fraternity who have come out and spoken for the film."

"At such times you feel a little vulnerable, and you feel a little emotional because everybody has put in so much work into the film, and it is a lot of sincere work.

I don't think you can make a film like 'Padmavati' unless you give a part of your heart and soul to the film. Obviously, the leading face is Sanjay (Leela Bhansali) sir, and we are just following his footsteps," he added.

The movie is embroiled in controversy since Hindu groups backed by the BJP have opposed its release over alleged distortion of historical facts. Asked if he is scared of the whole situation, Shahid said, "I don't think scared is the right word. I don't think creative people should be scared because you can't create if you are constricted. You can't create unless you feel liberated and open, and I think art is a reflection of society at large. So it is important to express yourself with a certain sense of freedom, especially in a democracy."

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Entertainment

Terry Crews Says Lawsuit Against Agent Adam Venit Is "Not About Revenge" Terry Crews is opening up about his lawsuit against Adam Venit.

The Brooklyn Nine-Nine actor filed a lawsuit on Dec. 4 against the WME agent he claims sexually assaulted him at Feb. 2016 party. Crews first came forward with the allegations in October, without naming Venit.

A month later, E! News confirmed that Crews reported his alleged sexual assault to the Los Angeles Police Department. Days later, Crews appeared on Good Morning America, naming Venit and sharing allegations of what happened at that Feb. 2016 party.

"He literally takes his hand and puts it and squeezes my genitals," Crews said, adding that he jumped back and asked him "what are you doing?" Crews also said that Venit came back to him a second time and he "pushed him back."

In Crews' lawsuit documents, obtained by E! News, he is seeking damages for assault, battery, sexual battery, sexual harassment, gender violence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and negligent retention and supervision.

The lawsuit also states that the day after the alleged incident, Crews "received a call from Venit who apologized and claimed he was just not himself that night."

It's also stated in the documents that Crews "seeks to hold Venit, and his employer, WME, accountable for the February 4, 2016 blatant an unprovoked sexual assault perpetrated by Venit on Crews."

Crews and his wife, Rebecca King-Crews, attended the GQ Men of the Year party on Thursday evening in Los Angeles and talked about the lawsuit in an exclusive interview with E! News.

"This is not about revenge, this is not about get back, but it's just the fact that...I'm

they protect you from your evil deeds."Back in November, WME told ABC News, "Adam Venit was suspended following the internal investigation into the matter." Venit went back to work at the end of November following a month of unpaid suspension, WME confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter last

Garlic Pork sorry and an apology is when you step on somebody's toe by mistake," Crews said. "But when you stab them, when you intentionally hurt them, when you run them over, apologies just don't do. 'I'm sorry, my bad' does not work...people need to be held accountable."

He continued, "And what's happened is is people tend to hide behind the gigantic structures and powers that be and principalities and you're standing behind their leg and hoping

Nicki Minaj, Cardi B and Migos Team Up for Futuristic "MotorSport" Video When you combine Nicki Minajwith Cardi B and her fiancé Offset's hip-hop trio Migos, you know you're in for a ride that's out of this world!

The group, also made up of Quavo and Takeoff, feature the two female rappers in their new futuristic music video "Motorsport." The Migos men sport bright racing gear, while Cardi wears a sexy outfit made up of a strapless, plunging bodysuit and thigh-high boots, plus long, light blue wavy hair.

Rapping and dancing near a white Lamborghini, Nicki wears a silver chrome bodysuit and sheer vinyl overlay and almost floor-length pink braided hair.

month.

Crews reacted to the news on Twitter, "SOMEONE GOT A PASS." See what Crews had to say about returning Venit returning to the agency and see him talk more about the lawsuit in the video above.

The track "MotorSport" was released in October and contains sexually explicit lyrics.

It marks Migos' first collaboration with both Nicki and Cardi, best known for her single "Bodak Yellow." The latter had featured Offset of her song "Link" while he and Minaj are both featured on London on da Track's "No Flag."

Ingredients 3 – 4 lbs lean pork 2 pt apple cider vinegar (you may use regular vinegar; apple cider vinegar reduces the acidity) ½ lb garlic 1 bunch fine thyme 6 – 8 wirri-wirri peppers 4 – 6 cloves 4 tsp salt (or to taste)

Instructions • Cut the pork into suitable pieces, say, 1 in long x ½ wide x ½ thick.

• Steep the pork in a solution of ¼ pt vinegar and water, then remove the pork pieces, and put in a large jar or bottle.

• Pound the garlic, peppers and thyme. Add to the rest of the vinegar with the salt and clove. Pour this mixture over the pork, making sure that there is enough liquid to cover completely.

• Leave to soak for 3 to 4 days, or longer if possible. Use as desired.

• Preparation: In a pan, put the pork with very little of the vinegar liquid and leave to boil until liquid evaporates. Fry the pork, in the fat that was melted during boiling, until brown.

• Serve hot with homemade Guyana bread

By Recipe compliments of “A Taste of Guyana” – Dr. Odeen Ishmael.