Pepperpot 2015 5 24

► Page XL

Packing a wallop on the international scene

RANDY MADRAY

► Page XXVII

- fantastic designing talent eagerly sought after by the ladies

LATE NITE ► X HITCH HIKER Page

Presidential pardon of a child killer…

JUSTICE DERAILED Family friend speaks out against pardon of Vishnu Bhim’s killer

THE 10 BEST SMARTPHONES FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2015 ► Page XIV

SONIA NOEL - A Guyanese diva who ranks among the brightest stars

► Page XXX Produced and Edited by Mark Ramotar | Graphic and Layout Design by Duane Prnce

► Page XXVIII

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he entrancing music from a supreme dynasty, centuries old, flowed with the sweet breath of divinity from the snake charmer’s flute. He stood in the shadows from within the stone temple of Shiva as the Nagins of that world, drawn to the mesmerising music, came to him.

The night wore on as he played but he did not stop until the hour was passed for she hadn’t come. Rani sat up with a start, awakening from the same dream in three nights. The nagin, she was; she recognised that call but it was coming all the way across the seas from her ancestral home of India of the Nagin dynasty.

Who was the snake charmer calling? She was a stranger to that home in the Far East where her family, indentured servants in a West Indian colony, had returned to in deep sadness after she had died from a Cobra’s bite. The master had laid her to rest in the field of daffodils, where she loved to play and no one knew of the miracle that happened that night, only the flowers; silent witnesses.

The snake Goddess, a religious deity, repentant of the girl’s tragic ending, restored life to her and she became a snake girl. She lived alone in the field of daffodils, the garden her playground, until a new family with a young girl came to live in the estate’s manor and a unique friendship had developed between the snake girl and the human girl. For her it was always home and now she had found a family.

She sat in deep thoughts, wondering about the call and her friend Kate, always concerned about Rani because of the dangers that shadowed her life.

She asked,“What is it now?”

“I had that dream again,” Rani said quietly, “It’s the same calling.”

“Do you think it’s for you?”

“I don’t know for sure, but if it is I would have to go, for it’s my duty.”

A worried look crossed Kate’s face, always fearful that one day Rani may never return, the fate of being a nagin.

All day as Rani worked with Kate in her flower-shop, her inborn snake senses were troubled with flashes of a dark kingdom and the sinister hissing of snakes, as though some evil was waiting to be unleashed.

She was fearful that night of falling asleep not wanting to be called but she slept and in her dream as the snake charmer played the flute, she saw in the background of darkness the glint of snake eyes, evil flashing in their depths.

Then a flowing river, somewhere and as something rose from the bottom slowly, Rani gasped as the demon Nagin Queen appeared, her eyes burning with anger, a frightening illusion.

Rani awoke with a cry, knowing now why she was being called. The demon Cobra Queen ruled the underworld with a power and passion, unchallenged. She closed her eyes, in deep mediation until her mind reached the snake goddess and she asked,“Why is the snake charmer calling?”

“Because only you have the power to help him stop the evil.”

“The Demon Queen?”

“Yes, her evil son was killed in a battle with the snake charmer and now her rage is destroying everyone and everything, she has to be stopped.”

“Am I strong enough to counteract that demonic evil?”

“You will know.”

Rani said a silent ‘goodbye’ to Kate, not wanting to awake her and in her snake form she travelled by water

maureen.rampertab@gmail.com

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By Maureen Rampertab

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

flowing from his lips. She stood in front of him and there was a sudden hush, as he stopped playing and opened his eyes.

The nagin from a faraway land, who was blessed by the Goddess had answered his call.

Rani walked with him into the temple and they prayed together to combat the dark forces who knew she was there.

THE SHIVA TEMPLE

for days and nights until she touched, for the first time, the motherland. A wonderful sensation flowed through her being, for she felt a strong connection as she followed the sound of the flute. She saw the silhouette of the temple in the dim light and the lone figure, in the shadows; the music of the Gods

The demon Cobra Queen and her sect of the underworld were on their way as the winds screamed and the earth seemed to shudder, so deadly her wrath.

Rani stood at the entrance of the temple, her eyes glinting with the intense power of the snake goddess as she faced off with the evil powers of the Demon Queen.

The battle of mind and power raged on all night,as Rani continued to draw strength from the Goddess of the Seas.

The sky was beginning to clear as dawn approached when the Demon Queen, having lost most of her sect and her power diminished, sank to the ground, crippled in defeat. Rani looked at her, unforgiving, for her evil had wreaked havoc on the land for too long. This was her end.

Rani stayed in the temple for a short while as the villagers rebuilt their lives, celebrating her triumph for she was now the Protector in the Nagin World.

She returned to her friend and the home she loved, continuing to live her life as a snake girl until another calling.

DECLINE OF THE ARTS TODAY

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

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By Terence Roberts

HEN numerous readers, whether professionals or lay persons, express exasperation upon encountering contemporary writing which assumes the visual characteristics of paintings or films, via descriptive language, they are denying the aesthetic influence of both antique and later modern literature which reveal a progression based on a firm tradition in the arts.

The same relationship applies to the contemporary use of memory, dreamscape, magical transformations, travel, and baroque or effulgent language, which is also rooted in certain works by Baudelaire, Huysmans, Flaubert, Nerval, Gautier, Walt Whitman, Proust, Joyce, Woolf, or Faulkner.

CONCISE STANDARDS A decline in aesthetic value is obstructed when we concentrate on shorter, more linguistically compact or

If creative literature today is to exchange the detailed and complex richness of ancient and early progressive modernist texts by such writers mentioned above, for any ‘trendy’ objective of mainly a staid and easy clarity of simple rapid storytelling, then creative writing can largely descend into a state of forgettable and ineffective verbal mediocrity.

But apart from the writing and reading habits of both writers and readers who help make such a decline, the denial or ignorance of how the tradition of complex, yet exciting, or interesting literature has actually influenced many popular best-selling books of today, seems to go unrecognised.

A good example is the current lengthy reigning bestselling and Pulitzer Prize novel, ‘The Goldfinch’ by young American writer Donna Tartt. Most accolades on this novel keep comparing its style to Charles Dickens’, simply because this novel’s story, told by Theo, a thirteen-year-old High School boy orphaned by a terrorist bomb in a New York art museum which killed his single-parent mother, easily harks back to Dickens’ narrative content obsession with orphans in novels like, ‘Oliver Twist’, ‘Hard Times’, ‘Bleak House’, etc. However, Tartt's ‘The Goldfinch’ on a stylistic level (which IS really its content!) shows the diluted, yet skillful descriptive influence of much later avant-garde writing, partly by Proust, and Robbe-Gril-

III

(Part IX) Terence Roberts

let, Claude Simon, and even Philippe Sollers, all of the Nouveau Romans or New Novels, with their detailed descriptive emphasis on objects, paintings, architecture, dreams, disturbed states of mind, memories, which Tartt's hero, Theo, shares. Tartt's strategy is to stretch and distribute these qualities along her novel's seven hundred odd pages, so that even if experienced critical readers acquainted with the Nouveau Roman wanted to sum up her book, they could lose this evidence in its lengthy narrative/story as sole content.

UPKEEPING AESTHETIC LANGUAGE

DONNA TARTT’S ‘THE GOLDFINCH’

concise writing in which similar emotional stories may be shared. Tartt's young character Theo is not unique among other more or less one parent orphans in novels of recent decades, such as Claude Simon's ‘The Acacia’ and ‘The Trolley’, or Cormac McCarthy’s ‘The Road’, among others probably. But these novels are far shorter than Tartt’s by hundreds of pages, and their writing is far more vivid, visually mobile, and emotionally charged, since they do not have the excuse of being written by a child’s first person narrative voice.

Actually, Theo’s narrative voice seems extremely experienced and sophisticated for his age! However, ‘The Goldfinch’, with its admirable combination of lengthy content and focused style, holds up one end of literary quality as surprising proof that such quality writing can nevertheless be sustained today with classic skill.

UNIFIED PLEASURE What is the bottom line literary value, and real everyday human value, in this search (and upkeep) for a creative literature of quality? Since a decline in the arts seems more and more the result of an inability to create art forms of pleasure which are not compromised or contaminated by other interests, such as social, political, historical, or ethnic obsessions which can be dealt with in the distinct category of polemical writing.

We keep referring to the antique literary works of Homer, Virgil, Petronius, and Apuleius, because they established the priority of style as content, or form as content, as a unified pleasure. Later creative writing, like Flaubert’s ‘Salambo’; Stendhal’s ‘The Charterhouse of Parma’; Huysman’s ‘Against Nature’; Gautier’s ‘Mademoiselle De Maupin’; Fielding’s ‘Tom Jones’; Goncharov’s ‘Oblomov’; Whitman’s ‘Leaves of Grass’; Proust’s ‘A La Recherché du Temps Perdu’; Joyce’s ‘Ulysses’; Lawrence Durrell’s ‘The Alexandrian Quartet’; Jose Lezema Lima’s ‘Paradisio’..... all established the pleasure of creative writing as a standard of learning which prevents the decline of literature as art. It is Barthes again who would clarify this value in ‘The Pleasure of the Text’, when he wrote: “What if knowledge itself is delicious?

Pleasure....is not a naïve residue; it does not depend on a logic of understanding and on sensation; it is a drift, something both revolutionary and asocial, and it cannot be taken over by any collectivity, any mentality, any idiolect....It is obvious that the pleasure of the text is scandalous: not because it is immoral but because it is a topic.”

IV

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

2015 World Book & Copyright Day

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ORLD Book and Copyright Day is commemorated on April 23 each year. Guyana’s formal participation in this event is recent but the country’s contribution has always being significant and that’s saying a lot for a developing country.

In general, observances of any sort are seemingly perfunctory, something to guard against in this instance where the stake is extremely high. This is not to say that this particular occasion is not celebrated in some places with elaborate planning, due pomp, publicity and international endorsement.

An occasion like this is too important to leave to tokenism. The book, in all its forms and manifestations, and in all its complexities including literacy, comprehension, reading skills, expression skills and writing skills are vital to a society that is working towards progress and development of each member of that society and to the overall betterment of that society.

Too much is at stake here. And as such World Book and Copyright Day must be featured prominently on the calendar of each country especially since the bigger picture includes and involves crossing borders and languages and literatures and cultures.

The National Library of Guyana, over the years, has found innovative ways to celebrate the event. One year, trees were planted in the compound of the institution as a gesture of replenishing the earth of trees from which we get paper that is utilised in the making of books.

On another occasion, the library, offered lunch and lecture on copyright to school children. This went down smoothly in that the lecturer, Dr Joyce Jonas, converted her message into a conversation with the students while using relevant examples to get home the point.

Dr Jonas also gave a personal account to illustrate the impact of copyright on all stakeholders.

She explained and expressed how she felt when the book, ‘English B for CSEC/CXC - A Caribbean Examinations Council Study Guide’, was pirated just as it hit the market. That was after she had put in ‘tremendous work and huge amount of time’ in the making of the book.

Apart from content, which is the writing, the making of a text book also includes design and layout, proofing and editing, binding, covers and

cover designs, illustrations and diagrams, and marketing, all of which are specialised and separate fields.

For World Book and Copyright Day 2015, the National Library and its partners – the Ministry of Education and Repsol staged a two-day ‘Readathon’

The Primary school that won

The winning Secondary school

on April 23 and 24. The event took the form of an engaging and fun game not unlike the television ‘Jeopardy’. It was heartening for the organisers to witness the enthusiasm displayed by the students. ► Continued on page V

2015 World Book ...

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

In trying to outdo the other, they showed how well they read, how much they absorbed, how much they comprehended and how well they were able to express what was read.

What was read? ‘Alice in Wonderland’ was the book selected for the primary school students and the book ‘Backfire’ for students of secondary school. Participating schools at each level read selected chapters from the titles identified.

The schools participating at the primary level were: 1. North Georgetown Primary 2. St. Margaret's Primary 3. Winfer Gardens Primary 4. West Ruimveldt Primary 5. St. Gabriel's Primary 6. South Ruimveldt Park Primary

2nd place - North Georgetown 3rd place - Tutorial High

The winning schools were: 1st place - South Ruimveldt Park Primary 2nd place - Winfer Gardens Primary 3rd Place - North Georgetown Primary The schools participating at the secondary level were: 1. Central High 2. North Georgetown Secondary 3. North Ruimveldt Secondary 4. Cummings Lodge Secondary 5. Tutorial High The winning schools were: 1st place - Central High

V

The 1st place schools received a scanner for the school as well as a trophy while the 2nd and 3rd placed schools were each rewarded with a trophy.

Each student was given a certificate of participation.

The judges were kept on their toes from the first gong right to the resounding end – the joy of the winners was unrestrained. The panel of judges was made up of Ms Samantha Williams - Ministry of Education; Ms. Sharifah Razack - Repsol/EPA; and Ms Merle James - National Library.

Apart from sponsoring the complete two-day event, Repsol donated 80 History, Geography, Biology, English & Social Studies CSEC textbooks which would augment the library’s well used/overused supply. This ‘project was a partial fulfillment of Repsol’s Global Corporate Social Responsibility Programme, which focuses on the improvement of three areas in Guyana: Education, Environment and Health’.

The main aim of World Book & Copyright Day is to focus on books, to promote reading, to encourage publishing and the protection of intellectual property through copyright. Copyright is to encourage more creativity, better crafted works and hence more elucidation, learning and entertainment. Copyright breeds innovation.

In 1995, World Book and Copyright Day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

(Persons wishing to respond to this author are asked to telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com) The donated text books on display

Repsol donated text books to National Library

*

What’s Happening: Sharon Maas’ new novel, ‘The Small Fortune of Dorothea Q’ is now available at Austin’s Book Service.

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

IMPLANT DENTISTRY

D

ENTAL practitioners have tried to develop artificial teeth to be placed in the jawbones since the origin of dentistry.

In relatively recent years, however, there has been increased activity in the area of implant dentistry. Dental implants were actually initiated

by Swedish research in the 1960s. The placement of small titanium cylinders or screws into the jawbone has progressed from experimental (and highly criticised) to common usage by many dentists.

The titanium-screw concept popularised implant use although other types of implants were available much earlier.

Examples are blades placed into the jawbone, with heads protruding above the gums, and sub-periosteal implants placed on top of the bone and gums.

Do these tooth substitutes (dental implants) work? Yes, they do! In fact, I do believe and hereby predict that years after I would have passed on, the procedure would become far more common than root canal therapy. In numerous situations their ability to function rivals that of natural teeth. In severe cases they have allowed persons unable to wear traditional artificial dentures to chew well and appear normal. The most popular current concept (cylinders and screws) requires two clinical sessions.

1. The gum tissue is opened, and the screw like titanium implant is placed into the bone. This implant combines with the bone as the bone cells grow into its surface. This process, which has been called osseointegration, takes several months.

During this time, the implant is usually sealed below the gum,

away from mouth fluids and debris, while it heals into place.

2. A small hole is made in the gum tissue, and the implant is exposed. A healing cap is placed on the implant for a short time, and a head is placed onto the implant body. The gum tissue heals for a short time, and the dentist places some artificial teeth (prosthesis) onto the implant(s). These artificial teeth can be made to appear and function as well as or better than natural teeth.

Do all dentists provide implants? No. There are two distinct divisions in the implant procedure described.

The placement of the implant into bone is a surgical procedure performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists, prosthodontists, and some general dentists. As a general dentist I do implants having done three courses, one in Trinidad and two in the United States. The point is that it is not difficult to perform so one does not necessarily have to be a specialist.

If your general dentist does not provide this service, he or she will refer you to a practitioner who performs the surgical portion of the procedure. The second portion, or attachment of artificial teeth (prosthesis) onto the implant(s), is usually accomplished by prothodontists or general dentists. Both portions of the implant procedure are exacting techniques requiring training.

If implants are so good, why is it that more persons are not requesting them instead of the other available options?

The answer is simple. Due to the nature of implants, the process has a significant potential of being less predictable than desired depending on factors inherent in the patient’s biological/genetic presentation. This is apart from the fact that the procedure is more protracted.

Now, implants are expensive, and, as with natural teeth, require upkeep by patients and dentists. When implants are really needed, they do not have objective satisfactory substitutes. The task for you and your dentist is to determine whether your oral needs would be served best by using dental implants to replace the root structure of the natural teeth, followed by some form of prosthesis (artificial replacement) for the missing tooth structures.

Total and comprehensive case assessment is important for success.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

VII

It happened in 1967…

Accused appeal convictions because alibi not put to jury - Appellate Court affirms convictions & sentences

I

By George Barclay N 1967, the Guyana Court of Appeal affirmed the convictions and sentences of robbery convicted appellants Carlton Adams & James Lawrence, despite their contention that the trial judge had erred by not putting the alibi defence to the jury.

Dismissing the appeal and affirming the convictions and sentences, the Guyana Court of Appeal, constituted

by Chancellor of the Judiciary Mr Kenneth Stoby and Justices of Appeal Mr Percival Cummings and Mr Victor Crane, held that “It is not necessary for the trial judge to give a special direction, as he must in respect to certain other defences, such as provocation, self-defence and drunkenness, etc.”

The facts of the case disclosed that one man was robbed by one of the appellants as he was about to enter a shop. Two constables who were on duty in plainclothes at a nearby corner were attracted by shouts of “Thief!”, and saw when one of the appellants joined the other, who had a bicycle, and the two of them rode away.

The two constables gave chase and subsequently apprehended the appellants; who, at their trial, gave sworn evidence testifying that they had been somewhere else. One said he was shopping, whilst the other said he was making enquiries about work.

In his summing up, the trial judge directed the jury on the burden of proof and on the standard of proof, but at no time did he specifically explain that the defence was an alibi, or give any specific direction regarding the alibis.

On appeal against conviction and sentence, the Appellate Court held the following (i): That an alibi, as such, is not a defence; and accordingly, there is no evidential burden cast upon the accused (2) That where an alibi has been set up, as here, it is not necessary for the trial judge to give a special direction, as he must where certain defences such as provocation, self-defence, drunkenness, etc. are raised, once he makes it quite clear that the jury must be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the accused committed the offence for which he has been charged. If this is not done, the accused is entitled to the benefit of any reasonable doubt.

Mr Desmond Christian represented the appellants, while Senior Crown Counsel Mr W. G. Persaud appeared for the respondent.

Delivering the judgment of the Guyana Court of Appeal, Chancellor Stoby said: “This appeal, which was admirably argued by Mr. Christian for the appellants, raises once again the question of what is the proper direction to be given to a jury when the accused’s answer to the charge is an alibi.

“The appellants were charged with robbery with violence. A witness gave evidence that as he was about to enter a shop in Regent Street, one of the accused attacked and robbed him. This witness chased that accused and saw him join the other accused, who was waiting on a bicycle at Regent and Alexander Streets.

The two accused rode away and were pursued for a considerable distance by this witness.

“Unknown to the participants of this incident, two police constables on duty in plain clothes were standing at the corner of Alexander and Regent Streets. Attracted by shouts of “Thief!” they saw one of the accused join the other accused and saw them both ride away.

“They followed on a motor cycle and caught up with them some distance from the starting point. As the policemen approached the two accused, the later abandoned their cycle and ran into a nearby yard. The Police followed. After a chase which involved entering into various yards and out on to various streets, one accused was apprehended by one policeman at the corner of Light and North Streets, and the other (was apprehended) at Light and Robb Streets.

“The policemen said the two accused were always within their vision, and the effect of their evidence was that the men arrested were the men who were chased from Alexander and Regent Streets.

“Both accused gave sworn evidence. One said that he had shopped that morning at the material time with his mother in the market. After concluding his purchase, he walked to Light and North Streets, where he was arrested.

“The other accused said he was sent to Robb Street to do some work at about 1:15 pm. He went there and made enquiries at the first house between Light & Cummings Streets, and was sent further down Robb Street. While walking in Robb Street, he was arrested.

“One accused called two witnesses to support his alibi”.

According to the Chancellor, in his summing-up, the judge directed the jury on the burden of proof and

George Barclay

the standard of proof, but at no time did he specifically explain that the defence was an alibi, nor did he give a specific direction regarding an alibi. He did, however, deal very fully with the defence in language which will be referred to hereafter.

He also said that counsel for the appellants, in submitting that the convictions should be quashed for non-direction amounting to misdirection, referred to R. v. Maraj (i), where it was contended that the trial judge had erred in not giving to the jury the direction that ought to be given when a defence of alibi is set up.

In delivering the judgment of the court, GOMES C.J. said (1961-1962), 4, W.I.R. 277, at p. 278): “Where the defence of alibi is set up, the requirement for an adequate direction to be given by the judge to the jury is of such an elementary nature that it should not require constant repetition. The fundamental principle is that, before a jury can return a verdict of guilty, that jury must feel sure that the prosecution had discharged the onus of establishing the guilt of the accused.

“Where an alibi is set up as a defence, not only does that onus remain on the prosecution, but the trial judge is required to go a step further and direct the jury that, even if they reject or do not believe the defence of alibi, they must nevertheless still consider whether the prosecution has proven all the ingredients of the charge that must be established before they can convict.

“The main reason why that further direction or reminder is required to be given is that, where an accused person gives evidence, on calls witnesses, or does both of those things in support of his alibi, the jury is confronted with two diametrically opposed versions which are created by the presentation of evidence, the truth or falsity of which can be tested and determined by them.

In such event, a jury, in the absence of the further direction, might think that if they reject the alibi, they must or can only accept the version put forward by the prosecution.

“That situation however does not arise where no evidence in support of an alibi is given by the defence, or otherwise appears, as is the case here; and the trial judge was therefore not required to give to the jury the further direction mentioned above.”

The Chancellor said counsel for the appellants had argued that the appellants had not only given sworn evidence of their alibis, but had called witnesses; and consequently the case came equally within the rule laid down

by GOMES, C .J. After dismissing the appeal and affirming the convictions and sentence, Chancellor Stoby said that while accepting that in certain circumstances a judge should follow the pattern laid down by GOMES C. J., he noted that the reason why in some cases a judge ought to give a special direction in respect of an alibi is solely to make sure that the jury approach the consideration of a verdict in the correct way.

VIII

DOING THE MATH

I

AM a foreign student. Days after I came to this country, I met an amazing man.

I was suspicious at first, but after half a year as friends, I realized I was in love and we moved in together. A year later he proposed.

He is starting his own business and wants me to help him as the desk person at his boutique. The period of time I would help him is indefinite. He is not sure when he is able to hire somebody else and I can move on with my career.

I earned a graduate degree in a different discipline, speak two foreign languages and yearn to develop as a professional in my field. I have no desire to spend years at a desk helping him grow his business and

realise his dreams, at the expense of losing mine.

Maybe it’s selfish to think this way, but I want economic security and an interesting career related to my education. Helping him will lose both, or at least slow me down. In addition, my modest earnings will depend upon him.

Even though he claims he will provide for me, I can’t simply rely on him. I need to be sure if it does not work out, I will not go insane because I have nothing to back me up. Though nothing will easily heal a broken heart, a lovely career and economic stability will definitely help out.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

There is nothing wrong with him. I know it is me. I do not trust men as my mother and aunt were left with nothing after divorcing cheating husbands who promised to provide for them. Their experience taught me to be self-reliant so I can build a marriage partnership, not a marriage dependency.

I am so afraid to devote my time and energy and be left with nothing. When my father left us, my mom raised me and my brother without a single cent from our father. He took everything and we found ourselves in poverty. There was so much pain and shame, tears and insecurity, in our lives. I thank God we survived.

My fiancé is insulted that I do not want to support him. I tried to explain, but he thinks I behave as an egoist.

KATARINA ****************

Dear Katarina, Most small businesses fail, and your fiancé could easily pull you down with him.

Yet he wants to make a clerk out of a woman with a graduate degree who speaks two foreign languages.

Huh? He doesn't see this makes no sense at all? He's not smart enough to realise that if you were working, the two of you could, if you chose, pay a clerk from your income?

We don't believe he is that blind. If he is, he won't succeed in business. If he isn't, he is ensnaring you.

He doesn't want you to make more money than he does and he wants you focused solely on him.

Accusing you of being an egoist may be the final nail in his coffin. He threw in your face what he is trying to do to you.

The real question is the one you didn't ask. Despite initial misgivings, you are engaged to him. Now you are asking for outside advice on the obvious.

Does he have you losing confidence in your own good judgment?

It makes no sense to turn you into a clerk in his little adventure. Thank goodness you learned the lesson from the terrible trials of your mother and aunt.

If he can’t fathom how advantageous it would be that one of you has a guaranteed income, then he is up to something else. He doesn't care about your advancement in the way that a man who loved you would.

Get on with your career. It wasn't meant to be.

He doesn't know you, he doesn't understand you, he doesn’t love you.

WAYNE & TAMARA

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

IX

(A look at some of the stories that made the news ‘back-in-the-day’ with CLIFFORD STANLEY)

Noah’s ark flying out today with rare B.G. animals for U.S. zoo (The Daily Argosy April 14th, 1960)

A FOUR man U.S. expedition will leave British Guiana (B.G.) this morning after spending over one month in the interior, hunting for rare animals and for the black jaguar which is said to be found here.

The expedition was sponsored by the ‘Blade’ a daily newspaper in Toledo, Ohio and the Toledo Zoo, one of the best zoos in the USA. Dr Larry Tatzlaff, the leader of the expedition was accompanied by Messrs. Phil C. Skeldon, Director of the Zoo, Dan Danford Curator of Mammals at the Zoo and outdoor Editor of the Blade Lou Klewer.

Dr Tatzlaff said yesterday that they had caught 35 different types of animals, fish, reptiles and birds.

The expedition caught about 10,000 pounds of rare animals and a specially chartered plane arrived in B.G. yesterday to transport the flying Noah’s Ark to the USA. Mr Danford said the animals will enhance the Zoo’s collection which is already one of the most outstanding in the U.S. The Toledo Zoo is visited by about 80,000 persons each year.

UITVLUGT MURDER ACCUSED TO DIE

(The Daily Argosy April 9th, 1960) Cyril Boodhoo , a 33 year old cane cutter also called Paltoo who on Sunday November 29th 1959, battered to death his 72 year old father –in-law Samaroo also known as :”Gun” with an axe handle at Uitvlugt Estate sideline dam was yesterday found guilty of murder by a Jury at the Demerara Assizes.

The Jury deliberated for nearly three hours.

His Lordship Chief Justice Luckhoo acting sentenced the accused to death.

The case for the Crown was that there was a family dispute between the accused and the deceased whose stepdaughter Doris was the wife of the accused.

They all lived in the same house.

On the day in question, the accused returned home with some friends and the deceased protested about their behavior.

A quarrel ensued and the deceased left for the house of a neighbor named Girlo with Doris accompanying him.

Around 4 p.m. the deceased returned to his home and after an exchange of words the accused struck the old man several blows with an axe handle.

Death resulted in about 15 minutes and the Police at Leonora Police Station were notified.

Crown Prosecutor was Mr. G.L.B. Persaud and the accused was represented by Mr. C.E.R. Debidin associated with Mr. S. Sukhan.

CHS touring party off to Kaieteur (The daily Argosy April 6th, 1960)

President of the touring club at the Central High School, Mr J.R.S. Luck and 20 students left the City yesterday morning for a trip to Kaieteur Fall.

This is the first time that the students will go there.

They are accompanied by three teachers on the ten day outing.

It is the aim of the Touring Club to arrange each year , trips to various parts of B.G. The Kaieteur party is accompanied by Mr Dennis New, a zoologist of the University College of the West Indies, who came to B.G. specially for the trip.

Berbice Chamber holds its first Luncheon (The Daily Argosy April 6th, 1960)

The Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association (BCDA) made history on Saturday morning when it held its luncheon in the New Amsterdam Town Hall.

It was the first time since its establishment in February 1931.

The President of the Chamber Mr H.C. Spence presided at the luncheon and there was a very large attendance of members of the Chamber.

The invitees included the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, Mr Eric. S. Stoby, the President of the Junior Chamber, Mr Majeed, Messrs.

Carrol Woods, Consul and Nelson.

C. Ledsky, Vice-Consul of the U.S.A, the Hon. Justice Bollers , the Acting Mayor of New Amsterdam, Mr. F. J. July M.B.E and the District Commissioner East Berbice, Mr. W.A. Angoy, the Vice-President of the Berbice Chamber Mr S. G. Wiltshire and Mr C.C. Bristol Secretary.

Mr. Spence proposed the toast to ‘Our Guests’ and Mr. Stoby replied.

Mr. Spence referred to the activities of the Chamber, the help received from the Government and the co-operation of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Stoby acknowledged the co-operation of the Berbice Chamber and its hospitality.

FINED $50 FOR CRUELTY TO DOG (The Daily Argosy April 20th, 1960)

(The Daily Argosy April 6th , 1960) Mohan of Palmyra, East Canje was fined $10 or one month by His Worship Mr. Frank Vieira for refusing to sell one pint of milk for analysis when requested to do so by Senior Health Inspector A. Khursatee of the Municipal Health Department on January 19.

Mr C.E. Clarke prosecuted.

His Worship Mr. Frank Vieira at New Amsterdam Magistrate Court on Monday fined Gaspar a fisherman, $50, costs $6 or two months after he had pleaded guilty to a charge of cruelty to a dog in the New Amsterdam market on Tuesday April 19th.

R.C. Joseph Best , R.S.P.C.A Inspector told the Court that the defendant struck the dog with a rope on the eye.

WHOSE SPECTACLES?

TOMORROW IS CENSUS DAY

$10 FOR REFUSING TO SELL MILK:

(The Daily Argosy April 13th 1960) Two pupils of Queenstown Moravian School: Verna Clarke and Claudia Solomon have lodges at the Editorial Office of this newspaper, a pair of spectacles (gent’s) which they found on their way to school yesterday morning at the corner of Peter Rose and Anira Streets.

The owner may recover them on identification.

Also lying here unclaimed for some time is a pair of lady’s spectacles.

(The Daily Argosy April 6th, 1960) Tomorrow is Census Day. This is the day on which the census enumerators who have been visiting every home in B.G. will return to each household to make a final check on the figures they have gathered.

Householders are asked to make a special effort to be at home on Thursday in order that the final population count may proceed smoothly and efficiently.

(Clifford Stanley can be reached to discuss any of the foregoing articles at cliffantony@gmail.com or cell phone # 694-0913)

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

LATE NITE HITCH HIKER

A

By Neil Primus

strong breeze pushed its way across the road.

The night was black, no moonlight. The country road leading into ‘Forest Place’ was even blacker. Most people avoided late night travelling on this particular road. There had been numerous complaints and stories about strange happenings along this roadway. Those who dared were almost always young full of contempt for others who were fearful.

The Mad Ants gang were a thorn in the butt of the village of Forest Place. They were noisy, rude, unkempt and petty thieves. Villagers tolerated them because they were from the same village and were considered to be relativity harmless.

Tonight they were on their way home after attending a dance in the next village. Some were drunk, a few were tipsy, but all of them were noisy.

“Dat dance finish too early.”

It was 2:30 am.

“I drink some bountiful Guinness!”

He drank one and then saturated his system with XM Rum. “I get lil bit from that sweet dougla bini!”

In fact the pretty girl had slapped him and told him to drop dead.

“I spend some good cash tonight in dea!”

He had gone to the dance with $500 and spent that in the first hour. After that, he bommed his way to a healthy drunken state.

“I tired bad, boy I dance whole night!”

The fact was that he got drunk very early in the evening and tried to dance with every woman, weather they were dancing with someone else or not.

Their rowdy drunken conversation was loud and pointless but that was how they moved.

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

It was getting nearer and nearer.

Clip! Chop! Clip! Chop!

Around the nearby bend came a horse cart. The cart-man waved to them as he passed by. Not waiting for an invitation the youths piled onto the cart.

Clip! Chop! Clip! Chop!

The horse made its way slowly along the road.

‘Where you going?”

The cart-man pointed ahead and continued.

“Where you stopping?”

This time he did not answer.

“Hey! You deaf or wat!”

The man laugh quietly under his breath. This angered the youths.

“Like you want people beat you and tek this cart!”

The laugh was louder, almost taunting. Something about it gave some of the hitchhikers the creeps. The moon began to peek out from behind heavy clouds. Its beam spread their glow everywhere. As things got clearer the occupants realised that they were not the only passengers on the cart. In the middle of the cart was a coffin (casket), they looked at it in utter shock.

“Yo! Who dis coffin for?”

“Me!” “A mean who dead?”

“Me.” By the time the meaning of his answer sank in, the youths were jumping, falling and tumbling off of the cart. They ran for a while and stopped, exhausted.

“Wat de hell we get we self into boy!”

“Some dam jumbie pon horse cart.”

“Good thing he didn’t hold anybody!”

“I think I see de coffin opening when I jump off!”

Nervous laughter.

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

They took off running again. After a while they heard a distant familiar sound from the opposite direction.

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

The horse cart was now coming their way from up the road. The youths jumped into the dense bushes and hide there.

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

As the cart got closer they could see that it was without driver. Only the coffin was there. One of the youths threw caution to the wind and stepped out onto the road; big mistake. The horse stopped so that he was standing next to the coffin. The youth stared at the coffin. Nothing. The others came out of hiding in the bushes and looked at the strange sight. One of them approached the horse and the animal looked steadily at him. To his horror the horse head swing around 360 degrees.

“Creak! Creak!

All eyes were riveted on the coffin.

Creeeak!.

There was now a visible crack showing an opening. Although the smart thing to do was get out of there, the gang seemed mesmerized to the spot like bees to honey.

“Creeeak! Creeeak!

The crack widened.

Crash!

The top flew up and the cartman sat up grinning at them.

“You guys need a lift?”

If he was talking about the space programme and lift off, he would have been more accurate. Some youths swore they made it to the side line trench without their feet touching the ground. Others swore they jumped more than 50 feet into the water. Whichever account was accurate is unclear. What I am sure of is that they hit the water together and crossed over in record time. Kurt cannot swim. He has no knowledge or

recollection of how he made it across the deep body of water, ahead of all the swimmers.

The race home was quite entertaining. People were running, looking back, falling, getting up and leaving a trail of soggy boots, socks and an occasional pants: Two to be exact.

Those were always worn below the butt line and so could not be entertained in case of urgent flight.

The next day the story was all over Forest Place. Mad Ants had met their match. That night the gang sat in an old abandoned truck. This was their usual hang out spot.

“Not me pon dat road night time!”

“Yea, that was weird. I dream de cart-man.”

“Me too. He tell me he coming fo pick we up!”

“Stop talking nonsense! I did lil frighten last night but I ok now.”

“Me too. If I ever meet he again I would wet he up!”

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

Startled eyes looked at each other in fear.

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

Race break. Mad ants became, Mad Exodus . Youths were running and screaming. All were heading for the safety of their homes.

Clip! Chop! Clip! Chop!

Around the nearby bend came Uncle Boodhoo the fish vendor. He was heading home after a good days sale in the villages along the East coast. He was shock to see boys speeding away from him but glad that at least tonight, there would be peace in Forest Place and no missiles landing on his cart.

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

Uncle Boodhoo looked back. There was another cart behind him. His eyes were not too good so he could not make out who the driver was. He just waved and headed home. The driver waved and disappeared!

Clip! Clop! Clip! Clop!

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XI

XII

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Dwayne Johnson thanks Varun Dhawan!

HOLLYWOOD action star Dwayne Johnson, better known as ‘The Rock’, has thanked Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan for the latter’s birthday wish.

Varun Dhawantweeted his wishes to Dwayne, who turned 43 on May 2. “Happy Birthday big man. My inspiration, the most electrifying man in all of entertainment,” Varun wrote.

The Rock, too, had wished Varun Dhawan on his birthday earlier.

The Fast and Furious star also took to Twitter to thank the young actor. “Thank you bud! And thank you India for all the birthday love,” Johnson tweeted.

Varun Dhawan will be next seen in ‘ABCD 2’. (Bollywood.com) The Rock and Varun Dhawan

Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma groove to ‘Girls Like To Swing’ MAKERS of ‘DilDhadakne Do’ have released another song from the film, and this time the video features Priyanka Chopra and Anushka Sharma shaking a leg to ‘Girls Like To Swing’.

The two Bollywood divas up the glam quotient in the peppy number. Ranveer Singh and Rahul Bose can be seen enjoying the performance put up by Priyanka and Anushka in the song.

The ever-entertaining Ranveer Singh took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the song.

He tweeted, “The truth is…I wanted to Swing with the girls too…But Zoya wouldn't let me!)”

Ranveer Singh shared this image while tweeting his thoughts about the song ‘Girls Like To Swing’.

Makers of ‘DilDhadakne Do’ had earlier released a song titled ‘PehliBaar’ where Ranveer and Anushka share a sizzling chemistry and flaunt their moves in the high-octane dance duet.

The ensemble cast also features Farhan Akhtar, Anil Kapoor and Shefali Shah in this film revolving around a dysfunctional Punjabi family on a cruise trip. ‘DilDhadakne Do’ is slated to release on June 5. (santabanta.com)

Priyanka Chopra and Anushka Sharma

What made Katrina Kaif colour her hair?

KATRINAKaif's red tresses caught more eyeballs than her monochrome and scarlet ensembles at the 68thCannes International Film Festival. Bollywood’s glamour girl, who had ditched her dark hair for new film ‘Fitoor’, says she experienced jitters before stepping into a salon for the makeover.

Helmed by ‘Rock On!’ fame director Abhishek Kapoor, the film, an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ famous novel ‘Great Expectations’, will present Katrina as a redhead.

The idea was all thanks to the director.

“At the same time, we both thought... this character...would be something fiery and new. We both instantly agreed on this and decided to colour the hair red,” Katrina, who was in Cannes as the L'Oreal Paris brand ambassador, told IANS. “He was super excited about it and I was very nervous, because colouring the hair can be a little scary or damaging, especially when you have long hair. So, I did a lot of research. I thought of where to go and how to do it. In the end, it came out really nice. I am happy,” she added.

The 31-year-old actress, who has her roots in London and has been working in Hindi filmdom since 2003, went to the British capital's hair expert Daniel Galvin, who has worked on tresses of celebrities like popstar Madonna and the late Princess Diana.

"He is a well-known hair colourist...It took a day and a half to colour my hair. I sat for eight hours on the first day, and then went back to the salon next morning," said the ‘Bang Bang!’ star, who at one point in her career, delivered six back-to-back hits.

The reason why Katrina went with her red look to Cannes was because the shooting of ‘Fitoor’ is yet to be completed.

Also, it's not just the hair she has experimented with for the film, which is ‘classic in visual’ with a modern story. Even her clothes are different!

Katrina, who has donned almost everything - from Patiala suits to saris to corset bodysuits - in her films, will be seen sporting a voluminous long skirt with neatly tucked in shirt in one sequence of ‘Fitoor’. (santabanta.com)

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XIII

Are ‘Omo-sexy’ and ‘Genny’ at war again?

IN most spheres of life, rivalry is a common phenomenon, which cannot be ruled out for anything. Talk about sports, business, and every other sector, it abounds everywhere.

But when envy starts to creep in, that is when it becomes deadly and unhealthy.

In the world of soccer today, it is an obvious truth that Lionel Messi and Christano Ronaldo are rivals, who also play for rival clubs in Spain.

As some pundits say, one of them must have been questioning God why he created the other in his own generation. But to lovers of the football game, the rivalry between the two soccer stars has made the game very interesting today.

Both of them try to outshine the other when they are both on the field of play. This is evident in the records each of them tries to break, especially if the other person is the holder of the record.

When it comes to mobile technology, it is no doubt that Samsung has given Apple a run for its money. Even Tecno, which hitherto was seen by Nigerians as a new kid in bloc, and fondly mocked as ‘China Phone’, is now rubbing shoulders with the big guys in the mobile phone business, especially with their smart phones.

In Nollywood, one of the rivalries that have stayed for a very long time is that between Omotola Ekeinde and Genevieve Nnaji.

For a long time now, these two screen divas never saw eyeball-to-eyeball until recently, when the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Ibinabo Fiberesima intervened and brought them together again.

You will recall that Nigeriafilms.com then exclusively reported how Ibinabo strived hard to bring these two important personalities in the movie industry in Nigeria together.

Those who were aware of the cold war between Omotola and Genevieve before Ibinabo’s peace move would confirm that Genevieve always avoided any event or function Omotola is invited into.

In fact, as Nigeriafilms.com learnt then, both parties always asked organisers of shows if the other person would also be coming and if the answer was in the affirmative, the person concerned would avoid the event.

When both of them featured in the award-winning film, ‘Ije’, the producer of the movie talked about how difficult it was for her to work with the two stars. Those who knew about the production of the film said that Omotola and Genevieve almost practically avoided each other and that after they play their respective roles in the film, they did not talk to each other and that they left the set immediately.

So, it was good news for fans of both Omotola and Genevieve when they heard that the two pretty actresses had sheathed the sword and had embraced peace.

Shortly after that, both of them were spotted together at events, and they were seeing talking and smiling at each other.

In fact, things were going on smoothly between the two talented actresses until recently, when Nigeriafilms.com was reliably informed that the actresses have started avoiding each other again.

A source close to Omotola and Genevieve informed us that both movie stars have resumed their rivalries.

“Genevieve now asks if Omotola is invited to any function she is invited to and if the answer is in affirmative, she would just tell you she would not be available,” the source, who craved for anonymity told Nigeriafilms.com.

We also learnt that Omotola does the same thing whenever she is invited for an event that

Nadia Buari launches own baby diaper line GHANAIAN actress, Nadia Buari, has taken many by surprise as she has just revealed her entrepreneurial skills with the latest introduction of her baby diapers into the market.

The actress revealed this via her social media page using herself for the advert campaign.

Fans have continued to send in congratulatory messages on her new line of business which has left many dumb founded as a fan has asked if the child birth was all about the diaper business or real.

With her new line of business, it will create a serious market competition for other brands that already existed.

In her words, “We're ready. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me introduce the latest baby diapers in town, my diaper line.."Nadia's Baby Diapers". I'm so excited. All my gorgeous mothers out there. please look out for "Nadia's Baby Diapers" in a supermarket or pharmacy near you.”

she feels might involve her ‘arch rival’.

The reason for the renewed hostility might not be unconnected with the fact that the rivalry has favoured both Omotola and Genevieve.

We gathered that their past rivalry helped in attracting more fans to them.

However, few friends of both Omotola and Genevieve who spoke with us said that the perceived rivalry between the two film icons in Africa was caused by the media and their fans.

“There is nothing between Omotola and Genevieve, they are still good friends, you guys (journalists) are the ones who create imaginary fights among stars just to cause unnecessary confusion.” Another thing is that the two of them are being mindful of their business, which is a normal thing among ladies,” one of them said. (NigeriaFilms.com)

XIV

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

THE 10 BEST SMARTPHONES FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2015

I

t looks like we've seen the last of the major smartphone announcements until the end of the summer so it's time to look back at the best smartphones for the first half of 2015.

Let's take a look at my current top picks for the first half of 2015.

1. LG G4 The LG G4 stands out from the pack in 2015 with its removable battery and microSD card slot as most manufacturers move to sealed batteries and full internal memory.

LG provides these two consumer-friendly options while encasing the back in leather, setting the bar for a smartphone camera, and impressing users with its 5.5 inch Quantum-HD IPS display.

You will find a Snapdragon 808 1.8 GHz 64-bit processor, 3GB RAM, 16 megapixel camera with f/1.8 aperture and OIS, front facing 8 megapixel camera, removable 3,000 mAh battery, Quick Charge 2.0 technology, and support for up to 2TB microSD cards.

2. Apple iPhone 6 & 6 Plus The Apple iPhone 6 Plus was at the top of every one of my lists. However, I think LG deserves the top spot with some great innovations that set the bar for Android devices.

The iPhone 6 Plus is a big phone, but I went with it over the iPhone 6 because of the larger battery and OIS. It is an awesome phone with all the apps you could want, quality photos, and a usable operating system.

3. Samsung Galaxy S6/S6 Edge The Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge are powered by a Samsung Exynosocta-core processor, 3GB of RAM, 32GB/64GB/128GB internal storage, 16 megapixel camera, 5.1 inch Super AMOLED 2560 x 1440 pixel display, integrated wireless charging, and more. Note that the removable battery, waterproof design, and microSD memory card expansion are all now gone from this successor to the Galaxy S5.

4. Samsung Galaxy Note 4/Note Edge While the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge take the metal frame design further with glass front and back panels, the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy Note Edge remain solid choices.

They both retain the removable battery and microSD card slot while providing cool S Pen functionality. It's likely that the Note 5 will be announced later and it will be interesting to see what Samsung brings to the Note line from the

Galaxy S line.

The Note 4 and Note Edge are powered by a Snapdragon 805 quad-core processor, with a 5.7-inch 2560 x 1440 Super AMOLED screen, 3GB of RAM, 32GB internal storage with support for a microSD card, 16-megapixel camera, 3.7-megapixel front-facing camera, and large 3220 mAh replaceable battery. Now that the Galaxy S6 is known, the removable battery and microSD card slot set up the Note 4 as a device for the road warrior.

5. Google Nexus 6 Unlike previous Nexus devices where there were always one or two things missing, the Nexus 6 is not really lacking in any specification. It has a large 5.92-inch 2560 x 1440 pixel resolution display, Snapdragon 805 processor, 3GB RAM, 32/64 GB internal storage, large 3900 mAh battery, 20-megapixel camera, Qi wireless charging, and water resistance.

It turns out the display resolution may have gone too far as battery life could be better for such a large device.

You can capture good photos with the camera, but the conditions have to be just right. LG and Samsung have pushed the Android camera market forward, making the Nexus 6 camera not as attractive of an option. However, you will get the latest and greatest version of Android on the Nexus 6 so there is value in that.

6. BlackBerry Passport The battery life is outstanding, the QWERTY keyboard is enjoyable and efficient, and I haven't noticed much of an app gap thanks to the Amazon Appstore and sideloading capability.

There are very few phones with hardware QWERTY keyboards and BlackBerry has optimized it for utility with touch-sensitive support.The BlackBerry Passport has a 4.5inch 1440 x 1440 pixel resolution display, full hardware QWERTY keyboard, 13-megapixel camera, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, microSD card slot, and large 3,450 mAh battery.

If unified communications is important to you, then it will be tough to beat the awesome BlackBerry Hub. The BlackBerry Passport is available in black, white, and red as an unlocked model and also with more curved edges on AT&T. 7. HTC One M9 I've spent quite a bit of time with the HTC One M9, and feel I gave it a higher rating than I should have. It is a great piece of hardware and it performs very well, but the camera is the worst of the new Android flagships and battery life could be better.

The UltraPixel camera was improved and moved to the front of the phone where it fits in best with expectations for front facing cameras. The rear camera was upgraded to a 20-megapixel shooter, but HTC seems to have issues optimizing the software for the camera module.

The design was improved with two-tone color metal and an in-hand feel that shouldn't slip as much as the One M8 did. HTC Sense has been improved to provide more personalization at a time when people are looking for ways to make their phone unique.

The internal specs have been updated to include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 octa-core processor, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, microSD card slot, and 2800 mAh

battery.

8. Sony Xperia Z3 The Sony Xperia Z3 is quite popular in Europe and I would have it ranked higher, but Sony doesn't seem to care much for the Caribbean market.

The Sony Xperia Z3, sports a Snapdragon 801 quad-core processor, 3GB RAM, 32GB internal storage and microSD card slot, massive 3,100 mAh battery, 20.7 megapixel camera, and front-facing stereo speakers.

The water resistance, excellent audio quality, physical camera shutter button, slim design for a 5.2 inch display, and amazing battery life made it one of my favorite phones over the past year. Sony needs to improve the camera software and get better US support in place.

9. Nokia Lumia 830 I had to include this device in my top 10 list, even if it doesn't have the top specs of other Android devices I did not include. It turns out I was wrong about Microsoft's affordable flagship strategy and you really can do quite a bit with a low-cost Windows Phone device.

The Lumia 830 comes installed with Windows Phone 8.1, a Snapdragon 400 processor with 1GB RAM, 16GB integrated storage, microSD card slot, 10 megapixel camera, 2200 mAh replaceable battery, and 5 inch 720p display. I have mine updated to Windows 10 Mobile and it continues to work very well.

The metal frame and curved Gorilla Glass feels and looks great, the bright orange or green back stand out from the crowd, the camera performs nearly as well as the top smartphones, and the price just cannot be beat.

10. Moto X 2014 One phone that I have had in my shopping cart a number of times over the past many months, but never pulled the trigger on is the 2014 Moto X. The ability to buy a customized phone with a leather or wood back is compelling and for those looking for a truly unique device then the Moto X is a great candidate. Motorola continues to drop the price on the Moto X with a likely successor coming later this summer or early in the fall.

The Moto X has a nearly pure Google experience with Android Lollipop, fantastic Motorola experience enhancements, and a solid form factor. The Moto X has been out for several months and Motorola has had special offers at various times the past few months.

The Moto X comes with a 5.2 inch 1080p display that fits well in your hand and pocket while the Snapdragon 801 and 2GB keep it running smoothly. The 2300 mAh battery doesn't meet my needs, but it does support the Quick Charge 2.0 technology to quickly top off the phone. What’s your choice?

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XV

Jumbie Jokes

F

By Neil Primus

RANCIS and Sunny were best friends since primary school.

They grew up in the same village, went to the same school and now worked at the same Fishery. They partied together and drank rum together.

There was one unique quality about their friendship. They often made very rough practical jokes on each other. One tried to outdo the other. After each attempt they would end up smiling and laughing.

Sunny would be celebrating his 25th birthday that weekend.What better way to do so than with a practical joke. Francis got down to planning the event.

Sunny knew that his friend’s yard was bushy and unkempt. No better place to spring his trap.

That night he got a large white sheet and put it on. With a scissors he cut two holes for the eyes and was ready to scare the skin off his friend.

It was around nine thirty when Francis strolled down the dark passage-way to his house. He had taken a few drinks but was not drunk. Sunny was waiting for him, concealed by a large clump of bushes.

Boo!!!

Boo!!

Francis looked around him and continued on.

Wooo!

Wooo!

Francis stopped and peered all around him trying to locate the source of this strange noise.

Just then Sunny rose to his full height and with arms outstretched walked robot like toward Francis.

When the white creature popped out from behind the Blacksage bush, Francis went from curious to totally freaked. He just stood looking at the slowly advancing menace. His mouth hung open and his eyes were round like marbles.

“A gon get yo now!”

“Run foyu life!”

Francis came to his senses when the figure in white double over laughing and pointing at him. It was Sunny trying to frighten him. He felt embarrassed that he had fallen for the trick.

Now whenever they were chatting or drinking he would have to face some heavy banter.

Sunny removed the sheet and continued laughing. He had caught his friend off guard and succeeded in frightening him. Wait until he told their friends. There would be plenty more laughing to come.

Francis sat on a tree stump and tried to compose himself. Sunny squatted nearby.

Woosh!

Something swift had just flown past them Groan!

The sound was loud and unmistakable.Sunny looked around in shock. His eyes locked onto a strange silvery figure rising out of the ground.

Francis was facing Sunny and could not see what was happening behind himneither did he care to know. He was convinced that it was another trick though up by Sunny.

The silver specter raised to about eight feet, its eyes socket of fire. Sunny’s laughter and courage melted away before this new phenomenon.

With badly shaking hand and quivering voice he tried to warn his friend.

“A.a.aJ.J.Jumbie behindyo!”

Francis only smiled. He was not going to fall for the same thing twice in one night.

Sunny was becoming more agitated. He could not get his friend to take him seriously.

The creature moved towards them in a menacing way.

Sunny got to his feet but both were shaking so badly that they could hardly support his weight. He could not even move towards his friend to warn him of the impending danger.

Francis solved the problem. He had seen enough of Sunny’s schemes and pranks. He was going home.

Getting up, he strode past a terrified and motionless Sunny and continued along the passage way to his house. When he disappeared along the path things took a turn for the worse.

“Who dare to disturb me peaceful slumber?”

Sunny could not muster the voice to answer.

“I gon teach you a lesson tonight!”

With that the spirit closes on Sunny in the blink of an eye. It was like Royal Rumble for the next five minutes.

Pax! Bam! Crack!

Wax! Pow! Kick, cuff, butt and bite rain down on Sunny.

It was a one way affair. Sunny found his voice half way in the rumble and started to bawl.

“Ow!” “Ahhh!”

“Oh me lawd!”

“Sorry for me nah!”

Lix continued. His mobility returned and he went racing out of there, sheet in hand blowing wildly in the wind. De man frighten a few people well and old Ms Hobbard pelt he wid she false teeth.

Next day Sunny was black and blue and limping from all de blows. Francis hear about it and he started to laugh. Then he got serious.

Dis thing happen in he passage-way. Dat same morning he and two friends weed the entire place. They nice it up and made a seat out of the tree stump.

Dat night Francis dream a grey hair man smiling at he and telling he thanks fo cleaning up the place. After dat no bush could survive in the passage way.

XVI

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Opening doors of opportunities for the poor - Roadside Baptist Church and Skills Training Centre on a mission to create positive change

By Tajeram Mohabir IN the quest for success in life, many fail to recognise the poor and the down-trodden, but they are others who make it their duty to help those who really need help.

They are driven by the mantra ‘we aspire to make a positive difference in society’, ‘our goal is to change lives’ and ‘society will be a far better place if all is given to opportunity, regardless of their ability and social standing, to develop and

includes the employment of persons of other religions and the provision of services to all regardless of their religion.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre Yetrawatee Katryan told the Chronicle that the entity is about making a meaningful difference in people’s lives and anyone with a heart and the will is a friend of the centre.

TARGETING THE VULNERABLE

of poverty and enjoy comfortable lives.

Every year more than 100 vulnerable persons graduate from the training centre equipped with a skill of their choice; the vast majority have gone on to improve their own standard of living.

Those who did not establish their own businesses have gained employment at banks, GuySuCo and other state and private institutions while some have chosen to further their studies at the University of Guyana.

A trainee technician going through the paces thrive’.

This has been the driving force behind the Roadside Baptist Church and the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre, located at Lot 161 and 168 Number 8 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The church and the centre seeks to improve the quality of life of residents by creating opportunities for youths, men and women and the elderly, to build life and job skills through the provision of quality adult education, skills training and social services.

The Roadside Baptist Church and Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre though separate entities, they function in tandem: the church established in 1976 provides a vision for positive change and the centre birthed in 1995 executes that the vision.

But though birthed out of the humble teaching of the Bible, the skills training centre has adopted a board focus, and this

Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre CEO Yetrawatee Katryan

The centre focuses on providing poor and at-risk youth, single parent mothers and school dropout with skills in a variety of areas to make them employable or start their own businesses.

These programmes include garment making, Information Technology, cosmetology, cake decoration, floral arrangement, HIV Prevention and Awareness Counseling and lessons in English and Mathematics at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations.

Katryan related that all the training programmes includes a component of entrepreneurship, pointing out that the goal is to empower the poor, providing them the means to climb out

A young girl being trained in counseling The Skills Training Centre works closely with the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). The BIT also provides skills training in host of areas including masonry and carpentry. Last year, some 77 persons graduated from the BIT programme which was offered through the Roadside Baptist Training Centre.

Katryan told this publication that the centre caters for persons from Orealla to Rose Hall but also accommodates those from as far as New Amsterdam.

She said since the training centre was established in 1995, it has played a useful role in reducing poverty in the area it covers and has opened doors of opportunities for thousands.

Many of the many hundreds of vulnerable persons who ► Continued on page XVII

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XVII

Opening doors ... â–ş From page XVI have passed through the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre have been provided an alternative to crime and answers to help them get out of poverty.

Students of the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre with their creations

Trainees technicians perfecting the art of cosmetology

A teacher conducting a remedial summer programme

VISHNU SAHADEO HARRACK The success stories are many, and all cannot be told in a news article. However, among the lot, the story of Vishnu Sahadeo Harrack stands out. Harrack, a poor child of a single parent family did not get an opportunity to attend high school due to the impoverish state of his family.

He took courses in cake decoration, floral arrangement, HIV Prevention Awareness Counseling among a series of others programmes. Today, Harrack is the most sought after for his skills in cake decoration and floral arrangement on the Corentyne.

This aside, Harrack is employed at a non-governmental organisation SACT, which provides counseling for vulnerable children and on HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness.

The young man is grateful to the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre for equipping him with the skills and strong values, pointing out that these have enabled him to leap out of abject poverty.

The life of Shimoon Khan has also been transformed.

Khan, who is from a poor family did garment making at the training centre and is now one of the better known fashion designer on the Corentyne.

OWN HOME A single parent, the young Khan has many busy days trying to fulfill the orders of her many customers. Recently, she has built her own home.

The training centre also offers a full-time library service, and also provides counseling and support to victims of domestic violence. In addition, it provides hot meals for the elderly once per mouth. These include accompanying victims to the police stations and hospitals.

In the past, the centre used to receiving funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the US and Japanese Embassies and other donors.

Today, it is still receives funding from the US but a sizable portion of the sum to keeping the entity going comes for a document centre, cost recovery programmes and a snackett, all managed by the training centre.

In February, the Japanese Embassy pumped US$90,000 into the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre for critical renovation works.

Under the project, the church’s outdoor auditorium was slated for renovation, and a shed destroyed by storm last year to be rebuilt. The money covered repairs to ceiling, walls and furniture in the shed while a portion was allocated for enhancement of services in the information technology laboratory, library and office.

WORK MOVING APACE The Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre CEO reported that work on the shed has been completed and the repair works are about 80 per cent complete. The remaining work is expected to be completed in July.

Katryan, a mother of one and a retired teacher said she remains grateful to the US Embassy, other donors and her dedicated staff.

The hard work of her staff, she said is not for or about the money but the cause to make a genuine change in the lives of people really in need.

This, she said is the vision of the church and the centre is on a mission to make that vision a reality.

XVIII

‘It was brown, it was everywhere’ - Family party ruined as human poo rains down ‘from plane overhead’

THESE were the disgusting scenes after a plane allegedly dropped human waste mid-flight, covering a 16th birthday party in poo.

The event was ruined when poo rained down, covering the garden.

More than 40 guests were left horrified when human waste suddenly fell from overhead, just minutes after they had cut the birthday cake.

Kirstie Rogy, a guest at the party in Pennsylvania, United States told WNEP News: "We just got done with the cake, thank God we took the cake back in, because within two minutes, something fell from the sky.

"It was brown, it was everywhere, it got on everything."

A canopy set up in the yard helped to shield some of the guests from the faeces.

The family now believe the human waste was dropped from a plane flying overhead.

They have identified five planes that were in the area at the time.

Regulations require planes to dispose of waste at an airport.

The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) is investigating the incident. (SOURCE: mirror.co.uk)

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

‘NOT-SO-SWEET’: Family’s birthday celebrations ruined after poo rained from the sky

‘DISGUSTING’: Garden canopy covered in faeces that was ‘dropped from plane’

1. Teacher: "Kids,what does the chicken give you?"

Student: "Meat!"

Teacher: "Very good! Now what does the pig give you?"

Student: "Bacon!"

Teacher: "Great! And what does the fat cow give you?"

Student: "Homework!"

2. A teacher is teaching a class and she sees that Johnny isn't paying attention, so she asks him, "If there are three ducks sitting on a fence, and you shoot one, how many are left?"

Johnny says, "None." The teacher asks, "Why?" Johnny says, "Because the shot scared them all off." The teacher says, "No, two, but I like how you're thinking." Johnny asks the teacher, "If you see three women walking out of an ice cream parlor, one is licking her ice cream, one is sucking her ice cream, and one is biting her ice cream, which one is married?" The teacher says, "The one sucking her ice cream." Johnny says, "No, the one with the wedding ring, but I like how you're thinking!"

3. A child asked his father, "How were people born?" So his father said, "Adam and Eve made babies, then their babies became adults and made babies, and so on." The child then went to his mother, asked her the same question and she told him, "We were monkeys then we evolved to become like we are now." The child ran back to his father and said, "You lied to me!" His father replied, "No, your mom was talking about her side of the family."

4. Why did I get divorced? Well, last week was my birthday. My wife didn't wish me a happy birthday. My parents forgot and so did my kids. I went to work and even my colleagues didn't wish me a happy birthday. As I entered my office, my secretary said, "Happy birthday, boss!"

I felt so special. She asked me out for lunch. After lunch, she invited me to her apartment.

We went there and she said, "Do you mind if I go into the bedroom for a minute?" "Okay," I said. She came out 5 minutes later with a birthday cake, my wife, my parents, my kids, my friends, & my colleagues all yelling, "SURPRISE!!!" while I was waiting on the sofa... naked.

5. Wife: "How would you describe me?"

Husband: "ABCDEFGHIJK." Wife: "What does that mean?"

Husband: "Adorable, beautiful, cute, delightful, elegant, fashionable, gorgeous, and hot."

Wife: "Aw, thank you, but what about IJK?" Husband: "I'm just kidding!"

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XIX

PM, several Cabinet members sworn in last week

H

is Excellency Brigadier (rtd) David Granger, on Wednesday last, administered the Oath of Office to 15 Cabinet Members to serve in the Executive Government’s Council of Ministers with appointed Ministerial Portfolios at the helm of a number of the Government Ministries.

The modest swearing in ceremony was held at the renamed Ministry of the Presidency, formerly the complex known as Office of the President (OP), where Moses Nagamootoo, was sworn in as Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

Head of State, President Granger, as had intimated earlier, also indicated a number of sweeping name changes and a consolidation of portfolios coming under the various ministries of government.

Former Finance Minister Carl Greenidge was sworn in officially as Minister with responsibility for Foreign Affairs with a special focus on economic diplomacy, while Economist and Former Budget Director, Winston Jordon, was sworn in as Finance Minister.

Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett held the post with Ministerial responsibility for Foreign Affairs, while Dr. Ashni Singh served as Finance Minister under the previous Administration.

Many speculated that Dr. Rupert Roopnarine would be appointed Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE), but this portfolio has been subsumed under Ministry of the Presidency (formerly OP), with Lieutenant Colonel (rtd), Joseph Harmon, sworn in as Minister of State.

The Presidential Secretariat and its functions will also be subsumed under the Ministry of the Presidency, under the political control of the Minister of State.

Dr Rupert Roopnarine, has since been sworn in as Minister of Education, with Nicolette Odella Henry, being appointed and sworn Minister within the Ministry of Education.

Among some of the surprise announcements by His Excellency President Granger, Volda Lawrence has been sworn in as Minister of Social Protection with the posts of Human Services and Social Security being incorporated under this Ministry.

Internationally recognised Women Miners’ activist, Simona Broomes, has been appointed and sworn to serve as Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection.

David Patterson has been sworn in as Minister of Public Infrastructure while Annette Ferguson will serve, having been appointed and sworn as the Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

Dr George Norton, who has held the post of Shadow Minister with responsibility for the Health Sector, was sworn in by His Excellence, President Granger, as the Substantive Minister appointed to the post.

Dr Karen Cummings, has also been appointed to serve as Minister within the now renamed Ministry of Public Health.

Having held the portfolio with Shadow responsibility for Local Government and Regional Development, while in Opposition, Ronald Bulkan, was yesterday appointed Minister of Communities.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the Ministries of Local Government and Regional Development as well as Housing and Water, will all be subsumed under the Ministry of Communities.

Former Deputy Speaker, Basil Williams, who would have also held the shadow portfolio for the legal sector for a number of years, was yesterday

sworn in by His Excellency President Granger, as Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs.

He now assumes the portfolio formerly held by Mr Anil Nandlall.

Amna Ally has been appointed and sworn as Minister of Social Cohesion.

President Granger further called on his ministers to work towards ensuring Guyana becomes less divided and less a poor country. He added that their main aim should be to deliver on the promises of ‘change’ that were made leading up to the May 11 General and Regional Elections.

Meanwhile, others Members of the new Cabinet are expected to be sworn in at a later date.

The President told reporters the other appointees are expected to take their oath of office in the near future.

These posts will include a renamed Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to that of Ministry of Indigenous People, a post to be assumed by Sydney Allicock.

Other posts still vacant (up to the time of the printing of this Pepperpot section on Friday last) include the Ministry of Agriculture and two other Vice Presidents, one of which would be Khemraj Ramjattan.

Ramjattan, is also named to be sworn in as Minister of National Security.

The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has been renamed to the Ministry of Investment and Business; this will be headed by AFC’s Dominic Gaskin while Cathy Hughes has been appointed as the Substantive Minister of Tourism, a portfolio held by Irfaan Ali, under the previous Administration. ► Continued on page XX

Newly sworn in members of the Cabinet with President David Granger in the compound of the Ministry of the Presidency (formerly Office of the President)

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

PM, several Cabinet memb

The Honourable Moses Veerasammy Nagamootoo receiving the Instruments of Office as Prime Minister of Guyana from His Excellency President David Arthur Granger. Also in photo is Chief of Protocol Mr Vic Persaud.

Hon. Amna Ally, Minister of Social Cohesion being sworn in

Hon. Ronald Bulkan, Minister of Communities (this Ministry brings together Housing, Water and Local Government) during last Wednesday’s swearing in ceremony

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XXI

bers sworn in last week

The Honourable Moses Veerasammy Nagamootoo takes the Oath as Prime Minister of Guyana in the presence of His Excellency President David Arthur Granger

President David Granger as he swore in Retired Army Colonel Joseph Harmon as the Minister of State of the Ministry of the Presidency

Hon. Catherine Andrea Hughes was sworn in as the new Minister of Tourism

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

PM, several Cabinet members sworn in last week Hon. Winston Jordan was sworn in as Minister of Finance

Hon. Carl Barrington Greenidge, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Hon. Basil Williams was sworn in as Guyana’s Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs by His Excellency President David Granger

Hon. Dr. Rupert Roopnarine was sworn in as Minister of Education

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XXIII

PM, several Cabinet members sworn in last week

President David Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo with newly sworn in Ministers of the APNU+AFC Government (Adrian Narine photos)

Hon. Dr. George Aubrey Norton was sworn in as Minister of Public Health (formerly Ministry of Health)

Hon. Volda Ann Lawrence was sworn in as Minister of Social Protection (formerly Ministry of Human Services)

Hon. David Anthony Patterson was sworn in as Minister of Public Infrastructure

Hon. Annette Natasha Ferguson was sworn in as Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure

Hon. Simona Broomes was sworn in as Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection

Hon. Nicolette Odella Henry was sworn in as Minister within the Ministry of Education

Hon. Dr. Karen Cummings was sworn in as Minister within the Ministry of Public Health

XXIV

The Ocelot

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he ocelot is a wild cat that has historically been hunted for its fur. At one time it faced the threat of extinction.

It is mainlyfound in four distinct clusters across Central and South America: Central America and Mexico, north-northwest South America, north-northeast South America and southern South America.

Ocelots prefer to live in areas with thick vegetation. They occupy a wide range of habitats including mangrove forests and coastal marshes, savanna grasslands and pastures, and tropical forests.

During the day, they sleep hidden among bushes, on a tree branch, or inside a hollow tree. Nighttime is when ocelots do their hunting and moving about. Without lots of places to hide, ocelots cannot survive.

Description Ocelots have distinctive striped and spotted markings. The fur can range in colour from a pale cream to a reddish gray with spots that run on its back and sides like links in a chain. The underside is snow white with tiny black spots and stripes. These markings allow it to blend perfectly with its surroundings. The markings on the ocelots are like

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

help the cat feel its way around. Unlike many cats, they do not avoid water and can swim well.

Although small mammals such as rodents make up the majority of its diet, they are known to hunt a variety of small animals including rabbits, birds, fish, crabs, lizards and snakes and will even hunt small deer. The ocelot is also known to eat monkeys, turtles, armadillos and anteaters.Their diet varies depending on the season and prey availability. Though they are predominantly nocturnal, they can also hunt during the day if prey are abundant then. Generally ocelots hunt alone.

Not only is the ocelot an important predator in its environment but they are also preyed upon by a number of large carnivores. Other felines including jaguars and pumas prey on the smaller ocelot, along with birds of prey such as the harpy eagle, and biggest snakes like the anaconda.

Breeding A male ocelot keeps a territory that overlaps four or five females’ territories, so he can easily find a mate. Males often mark their territory to tell other males to stay away.

An ocelot family is made up of a femaâ–ş Continued on page leadult and her kittens. After breeding, the male and female ocelots go their separate XXV

fingerprints, no two ocelots are marked the same. They have a long tail that is generally marked with dark rings and large paws in relation to their body size. Similar to other wild cats, the ocelot can retract its claws into protective pockets that prevent them from becoming blunt while the animal is walking about.

Males are generally larger than females weighing between 30-40 pounds while the females generally weigh between 20-30 pounds.

Ocelots have 30 teeth in their mouths and incredible bite strength for such a small cat.

Like all small cats, ocelots have very good vision and hearing. Their eyes have a special layer on the inside that collects light, so ocelots can see much better in the dark than people can. Being nocturnal, an ocelot can walk around at night as easy it is for you to do so during the day.

Their sense of smell is also a lot better than a human’s. Long whiskers

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

The Ocelot ► From page XXIV

ways. The female is pregnant for a little over two months and can have a litter of one to four kittens. The mother protects her kittens, feeds them, and cares for them all by herself. As the kittens grow, the mother ocelot teaches them how to hunt. By the time they are eight months old, they can hunt for themselves but may stay in their mother's home range for

XXV

up to two years.

Threats The ocelot has been described as being tolerant of disturbed habitat and persists in wooded patches near human settlements. Although widespread commercial harvests for the fur trade ceased decades ago, some illegal trade still persists. At present the major threats are habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal trade (as pets and for pelts), and killing by farmers due to ocelots feeding on poultry. Currently, the ocelot is listed as a species of least concern (LC) on the IUCN Redlist of Endangered Species.

Kids’ Activity Have fun colouring the ocelot scene below.

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

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Deadliest Diseases (Source: www.healthline.com)

The American Lung Association estimates that in 2011, 12.7 million adults in the United States had COPD, but even more showed some sign of lung problems. There’s a great variation in the number of cases from state to state. In 2011, about 4 percent of people in Minnesota and Washington had COPD. In Alabama and Kentucky, it was more than 9 percent.

1. Coronary Artery Disease (Ischemic Heart Disease) The deadliest disease in the world is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD, also called ischemic heart disease, occurs when the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart become narrowed. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 7.4 million people died of ischemic heart disease in 2012. That was about 13.2 percent of all deaths.

In the United States, about 600,000 people die of heart disease every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That makes it the deadliest disease in the U.S., as well as the world. In the U.S. the most common type of heart disease is CAD, which takes about 380,000 lives each year.

Among the risk factors are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Regular exercise, good nutrition, and weight control can help lower your risk of developing CAD. Where you live matters. Although it’s still the leading cause of death, mortality rates have declined in many European countries and in the United States. This may be due to better prevention and access to quality healthcare.

However, in many developing nations, mortality rates due to CAD are on the rise.

2. Stroke A stroke is when an artery in the brain is blocked or leaks. Oxygen-deprived brain cells begin to die within minutes.

Stroke was responsible for 6.7 million deaths around the world in 2012, according to WHO. That figure represents about 11.9 percent of all deaths. CDC figures show that nearly 130,000 people in the United States die of stroke each year — that’s one person every four minutes. About one in four strokes occur in people who have had a prior stroke. Stroke is also a leading cause of disability.

Risk factors for stroke are similar to those for CAD. In general, good health habits can lower your risks.

3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) COPD is a chronic, progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are types of COPD. About 3.1 million deaths were attributed to COPD in 2012, according to WHO. That represents about 5.6 percent of deaths, a rate that has held steady since 2000. In 2004, about 64 million people around the world were living with COPD. The main cause of COPD is tobacco — and that means secondhand smoke, too. Another factor is air pollution, both indoors and out. COPD affects men and women at about the same rate. There’s no cure for COPD, but its progression can be slowed down with medication.

4. Lower Respiratory Infections Many of the world’s deadliest diseases can be prevented. Knowing what they are may be just the incentive you need to take preventive measures.

The news is filled with stories about Ebola, and breast cancer gets a lot of press too. Would it surprise you to know that neither makes the list of the 10 deadliest diseases? Even more surprising, perhaps, is that several of the deadliest diseases, including the number one killer in the world, are at least partially preventable. Where a person lives, access to preventive care, and quality of healthcare all factor into their risk.

The top five deadliest diseases haven’t changed much in the past decade, but we’ve managed to lower the number of deaths for some of the top 10 deadliest diseases.

5. Trachea, Bronchus, and Lung Cancers Trachea, bronchus, and lung cancer are all respiratory cancers. The main causes of this type of cancer are smoking, second-hand smoke, and environmental toxins.

WHO estimates that in 2012, 1.6 million people died from trachea, bronchus, and lung cancers. These cancers represent about 2.9 percent of all deaths globally.

6. HIV/AIDS HIV is short for human immunodeficiency virus. It’s a virus that attacks the immune system. HIV can cause AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. AIDS is a chronic, life-threatening condition.

According to the Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), since the start of the pandemic, almost 39 million people have died due to HIV/AIDS. In 2013, about 1.5 million people lost their lives to AIDS. That’s about 2.7 percent of deaths worldwide.

By the end of 2012, 35.3 million people around the world were infected with HIV. Every day, about 5,700 more become infected.

Rates vary dramatically by geographical location. HIV is rampant in sub-Saharan Africa, where almost one in 20 adults has it. The region is home to 70 percent of all people who have HIV. Sadly, it’s also home to 91 percent of the HIV-positive children in the world.

7. Diarrheal Diseases Diarrhea is when you pass three or more loose stools a day. When diarrhea lasts more than a few days, your body loses too much water and salt. Death is due to dehydration.

Diarrhea is usually caused by an intestinal infection transmitted through viruses, bacteria, or even parasites. This type of infection can easily spread through contaminated water or food. It’s particularly widespread in developing nations that have poor sanitary conditions.

WHO estimates that 1.5 million people died from diarrheal diseases in 2012, which comprises about 2.7 percent

of deaths. Fortunately, that’s down from 2.2 million in 2000. Diarrheal disease is the second top killer of children under age five. Tragically, about 760,000 children die from diarrheal diseases each year.

According to a 2009 Unicef report, every year there are about 2.5 billion cases of diarrhea involving children under five years old. More than 50 percent occur in Africa and South Asia. More than 80 percent of child deaths due to diarrhea occur in those regions.

According to Unicef, healthy behaviors such as good handwashing technique can reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases by 40 percent. Progress is being made in the fight against diarrheal diseases, but much work remains.

Improved sanitization and water quality can help prevent diarrheal diseases. Access to early medical intervention can be the difference between life and death.

8. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes is a group of diseases that affect insulin production and use. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas can no longer produce insulin. The cause is not known. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, or it can’t be used effectively. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by a number of factors, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and carrying too much weight.

In 2012, about 1.5 million people died from diabetes-related causes, according to WHO. People in low to middle income countries are more likely to die from complications of diabetes.

9. Preterm Birth Complications According to WHO, in 2012, as many as 1.1 million deaths were due to prematurity and complications due to low birth weight. Three-quarters of these deaths happen within the first week of life. Lack of skilled medical care makes this a huge problem in developing countries. Many newborn deaths could be avoided with good prenatal and postnatal care.

10. Tuberculosis (TB) TB is a lung condition caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It’s an airborne disease that is often successfully treated. Some strains of TB are resistant to conventional treatments. Second-line drugs used to treat these patients are in limited supply. Some strains fail to respond to second-line treatment as well.

In 2012, about 900,000 people lost their lives to TB, according to WHO estimates. The majority of TB-related deaths happen in poorer countries. It is one of the top causes of death for people who have HIV. Worthy of Mention They didn’t make the top 10 deadliest disease list, but these diseases are definitely worth noting.

Malaria is caused by a parasite that infects mosquitos.

People get it from the bite of an infected mosquito. Malaria caused about 627,000 deaths in 2012, according to WHO. Sub-Saharan Africa took the brunt with 90 percent of all malaria deaths. Malaria is not contagious.

Measles is a contagious viral disease that can be prevented through immunization. In 2010, it killed about 139,300 people around the world, according to the CDC.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

XXVII

RANDY MADRAY

- fantastic designing talent eagerly sought after by the ladies

I

By Alex Wayne N a world where guys are expected to be macho and excited about a powerful physique, owning fast cars, possessing great wealth and having an enviable ability to ravish women, a 22-year-old youth without any of the trappings of wealth and minus the electric body of a super athlete finds himself perennially being sought after by beautiful women seeking satisfaction.

He knows their statistics; they eagerly anticipate his touch; and he always leaves them satisfied, smiling and glowing. But there is nothing lustful about his encounters with them! He caters to the fantasies of females, and not just any female. Randy Madray has dedicated himself to satisfying the ladies, thus it

Guyanese designer Randy Madray is certainly headed for the stars

is normal for him to mostly be found among actual and aspiring beauty queens. Eat your heart out, you macho fellas!

Randy Madray is a young fashion designer who made his debut in the fashion industry at the age of 15, after winning the FACTS 3 competition while still an ‘A’ grade student at Queen’s College. These days he is known for creating the “best statement” evening gowns in the pageant arena. The year 2014 was marked with much success for this young man, as he managed to style and attire six pageant delegates, who won their respective pageants among other contestants.

The queens crowned in Randy Madray designs for 2014 are Reesa Sooklall, Miss Guyana Talented Teen 2014; Alicia Bess, Guyana, Miss PJD2 Caribbean Queen 2014; Kaeve Armstrong, St. Kitts

& Nevis’s Miss Jaycees 2014; Fedalia Richardson, Miss Anguilla 2014; Tishima Browne, Miss St. Kitts & Nevis 2014; and Niketa Barker, Miss Guyana Universe 2014. Randy also worked with Miss India Worldwide 2014, Divya Sieudarsan, as the official wardrobe designer; Ayanna Whitehead, Miss World Guyana 4th Princess, and many others.

It was a Randy Maray creation that copped the Best Gown award at the Miss PHD, and later that year he was announced as the face of GEM Magazine's December 2014 issue with an exclusive feature, and he has since been consistent in media features.

Last year (2014) has definitely been tremendously fulfilling for Randy, and he looks forward to bigger things in 2015 and the years to come.

Already he has staked his claim on this year by outfitting the winner of the Miss St. Kitts 2015.

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Presidential pardon of a child killer…

JUSTICE DERAILED Family friend speaks out against pardon of Vishnu Bhim’s killer

T

By Tajeram Mohabir HE first time young Vishnu Bhim was taken to school by Ravindra Deo, a total stranger, was the last time he had been seen alive.

It became an incident that gripped the nation, much like the Neesa Gopaul murder, and drew condemnation from ever quarter of society.

Just 8 years old, and the only child and darling of his adoring parents, Chaimwatie and Heerlall Bhim, Vishnu Bhim was kidnapped by Ravindra Deo and was brutally murdered, his killer dumping his body in a trench in a secluded area at La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara.

Vishnu Bhim had gone missing for days before his body was eventually found in a swollen and decomposed state, located after Ravindra Deo had been caught on America Street, Georgetown a few days after committing the heinous crime.

Following intense grilling at Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, Deo confessed to the brutal murder, and led detectives to where he had dumped the remains of the school boy.

This heart-breaking incident happened in late November 1994, but it has not been erased from national memory. In fact, memory of the murder was recently revived when President Donald Ramotar offered a presidential pardon to Ravindra Deo in his last days in office. The former President’s decision has not found favour with many. Nevertheless, whether by a stroke of pure luck or otherwise, child killer and condemned convict Ravindra Deo is now a free man.

But the hearts of young Vishnu Bhim’s parents bleed, as they feel that justice has been derailed despite their agonised cry for its application, their resolute efforts to ensure justice for their dead son, and a solemn promise from no less a person than the venerable President Dr Cheddi Jagan that justice would be served. Their beloved Vishnu was snatched from them, but his killer is allowed to walk the streets of neighbourhoods and communities as a free man.

Were Vishnu Bhim alive today, he would have been 29 years old and probably living his dream of becoming a doctor, lawyer, or businessman like his father. Regrettably, his life came to a gruesome end 21 years ago.

DEEP DISPLEASURE Deo Babulall, a neighbour and family friend of the Bhims, remembers the sad day of that

Vishnu Bhim’s parents, Chaimwatie and Heerlall Bhim, during a happy occasion

Vishnu Bhim

tragedy. Before recalling what happened, he noted his deep displeasure at the decision of former President Donald Ramotar to pardon this particular convict. According to Babulall, the action of former President Ramotar is akin to a man who lacks a heart for justice, and probably has lost the common touch with the

people.

“For Ramotar to understand how wrong that decision was he has to place himself in the position of the (Bhim) family. If somebody had done that to his son or grandson, would he forgive them?” Babulall asked.

He stressed that the murderer had tried to hide, but was caught, tried, convicted and condemned to execution. On December 4, 1995, Deo was found guilty of kidnapping and murder, and was sentenced to death by Justice Claudette Singh.

Vishnu’s funeral had attracted thousands, and Babulall said he had been relaxing in a hammock under his home when the Guyana Chronicle visited, and the then President Dr Cheddi Jagan was among the gathering of

mourners.

He recalled Dr Jagan promising the Bhim family that justice would be served. He said Dr Jagan might be “turning in his grave”, as Ramotar has effectively reversed his decision.

During the interview, Babulall’s wife, who was next to him, was painstakingly going through a huge pile of photographs, trying to locate those with Vishnu, on learning that the story would be published in our Sunday edition.

Babulall related that Heerlall, Vishnu’s father, was like a brother to him, and that Vishnu had literally grown up with his children.

He recalled that Heerlall and other friends would frequently come over at his home for drinks and a good gaff in the afternoon after work and on weekends.

Heerlall used to operate a joinery shop downstairs of his two-storeyed house, a business he held for about 15 years, until he decided to pack up and leave soon after his son’s death.

REQUESTED A JOB Babulall recollected that Deo had gone to Heerlall requesting a job, telling Heerlall that he needed money to go to a wedding.

According to Babulall, Heerlall did not only give Deo ► Continued on page XXIX

JUSTICE DERAILED

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

► From page XXVIII

a job, but asked him to take his son to school; which he did, but by midday of the same day, Deo had left the job and was nowhere to be found.

On that day, Vishnu did not return from school, and soon after, a million-dollar ransom was demanded for his safe return.

Babulall said that he, Heerlall, and several other friends formed a search party and scoured every area in Annandale and in the neighbouring villages for the boy, but to no avail. They visited the homes of suspects, accompanied by police; and while all of those suspects had been at home, none of them appeared to have committed the gruesome act.

And when they visited the home of Deo, he was not

This happened, he said, because people nearby intervened; but when they got to know that the man getting the blows was a wanted child killer, they urged them to “kill him!” Police on routine patrol saw the commotion and came to the scene. They arrested Deo and asked Heeralall and his friends to report to Police Headquarters, Eve Leary.

Babulall recalled that they were prepared to let Deo go since, during the beating, he claimed innocence of the murder of Vishnu; but they changed their minds after Deo told the police that he had $3000 on his person when a closer check by the lawmen found $17,000.

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Having investigated, this newspaper has learnt that Deo’s family no longer lives in LBI, but at Lusignan.

NO ONE HOME On a visit to the Deo home, we saw the gates padlocked and no one was there. Neighbours told this publication that an old woman lives in the house, but she is seldom at home.

Former President Ramotar’s decision came as a surprise to many, since, under the People’s Progressive

CONDOMS AND CAMERA The policemen also found on Deo a few condoms and a camera. Following intense grilling, Deo finally admitted that he had indeed killed the school boy. He then led detectives to the spot where he had dumped the body.

Vishnu’s body was found in a trench in the LBI Backdam. It was in a decomposed state, with his tongue sticking out of his mouth. The post-mortem report revealed that the boy had been strangled.

Deo was tried, convicted and sentenced to death.

But before the day of execution, his attorneys filed an

Pardoned child killer Ravindra Deo (Credit: Stabroek News)

Deo Babulall there. Several other visits were made and the result was the same. On one of those visits, they found a muddied pair of jeans reportedly worn by Deo; that was the only possible sign of his continued presence in the village they saw.

Then one day during the search, Babulall said, Heerlall received a call from a police inspector, requesting that he visits the Cove and John Police Station.

However, when Heerlall and his friends got there, the inspector was in a meeting and, unable to wait until that meeting finished, they went to a cambio dealer who operates on America Street, who had also requested a meeting with them.

When they got to the America Street location, the cambio dealer was in the middle of a transaction, and they had to wait outside.

CUFFS AND KICKS While waiting outside, sipping on lemonade, Heerlall spotted Deo and the men pounced on him, but only managed to give him “a few cuffs and kicks”, Babulall told this publication.

Justice Claudette Singh ex-parte injunction preventing Deo from being hanged.

After some years in prison, Deo’s sentence was reduced to life imprisonment. He had implicated a man he called “Kresho” in the murder, but the police never found the man whom he claimed lived in Mahaicony.

Unable to bear the agony of the gruesome loss of their only child, Heeralall and his wife closed their joinery shop and departed Guyana. They have been living in Florida, USA ever since.

The Chronicle has made several unsuccessful attempts to contact them, but media reports are that they have expressed deep shock at the decision to pardon the convicted child killer. They had heard that Deo would be freed, but on checking with a senior government official of the former administration, Heeralall had reportedly been told that the claim was a rumour. Much to their surprise, the rumour recently turned out to be a sordid fact.

Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration, numerous laws were passed to protect children and safeguard their welfare.

In another section of the media, President of the Guyana Bar Association, Mr Ronald Burch-Smith, said that while it was well within Ramotar’s purview because he was President of the country at the time of the pardon, the decision should not have been made at the expense of what is morally correct.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Coalition for Children, in a statement, also knocked the decision to free the convicted child killer.

“The Guyana Coalition for Children is saddened and appalled to learn of former President Donald Ramotar’s pardoning of Ravindra Deo, the killer of eight-year-old Vishnu Bhim, the only child of his parents, (and) from the Annandale Community, East Coast Demerara.

“Ravindra Deo already had his death sentence commuted to life imprisonment. Today, he is free to live how he wishes. On the other hand, innocent eight-year-old Vishnu is dead; his parents and family will never see his potential realised, and our society has been robbed of his contribution,” the organisation said.

It also noted that too many adults in society have contributed to the abuse of children and/or stood by silently while children were abused and violated, most often by someone they know and love.

“The Guyana Coalition for Children reiterates that all forms of child abuse can be prevented. The abuse of children must not be tolerated, and abusers of children must receive the full penalties the law attaches to this heinous crime.

“The Guyana Coalition for Children calls on our new government to place children’s issues at the heart of developing Guyana, and to address this injustice without any delay,” the statement concluded.

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SONIA NOEL - A Guyanese diva who ranks among the brightest stars

By Alex Wayne SONIA Noel continues to blaze a fantastic trail in her iconic glory, making significant inroads into trendsetting fashion events, and keeping the Golden Arrowhead flying high in what some would call uncharted and seemingly

illusive territory.

“We Guyanese must be positioned at the right place at the right time if we are to move with the fashionable global time, and so seize the opportunity to influence the international fashion trendsetters,” says Noel, who recently participated at the spectacular Hot Couture...fashion for freedom, in St Lucia.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Some of the Sonia Noel designs that certainly made a difference This quintessential showcase is fast becoming the premier event of the Jazz and Arts Festival, the largest and most successful Jazz event in the Caribbean region. 2015 marked the third staging of this prestigious extravaganza that seats the likes of Nobel Laureate Sir Derek Walcott; Dame Pearlette Louisy, Governor General of St Lucia; celebrity talk show host Rick Wayne; and members of the original First Family of St Lucia, the Comptons -- whose famous sibling, Fiona Compton, presented a stunning collection, called the Paradise Prints.

Indeed the event housed the creme de la creme of St Lucian society: the St Omers and the Destangs, to name a few, who were all ‘dressed to the nines’. At least 10 persons in the crowd were outfitted by Sonia Noel, including the lovely and dynamic Dr Desmer Destang and sister Tanya Destang Bearbrun; TV personality Candy Nicolas; famous jazz musician Donna Hinckson; and Barbara Jacobs-Small, popular media personality TV personality Candy Nicholas was also outfitted in a stunning Sonia Noel original at Main Stage Jazz. “I have been proudly wearing Sonia's designs for years,” she confessed.

In fact, the Jazz and Arts event has become a unique selling point for Caribbean creatives, due to the widespread influx of regional and international arts/fashion/beauty/music enthusiasts. The media attendance has also been growing from strength to strength with the accelerating acclaim of this event. This year, media giant HBO joined the coterie of prominent media entities that were privileged to secure press accreditation and an increased buyer presence, particularly from the French islands, as was evident.

Sonia Noel ‘shone bright like a diamond’ with her exquisite 'Lattice becomes Lace' couture, which was approvingly received by the packed hall laced with discerning style arbiters and arts critiques/zealots. She was in her element, showing from carefree resort wear in cottons/linens to more luxurious island elegance in draped and stretch lace, to cater to that after-five clientele who do the town at Caribbean festivals.

She remained true to form with her signature lattice, but introduced her fantasy lace textile to marry the lush expressions of texture and present the 'Lattice becomes Lace’.

And at the first ever Montreal Caribbean Fashion Week, she presented in absentia, but rubbed shoulders with the eclectic and multi-dimensional Caribbean community, with its resplendent fashion design practitioners. The effect was the same as in St Lucia. This time, she presented a touch of her perennial Mariska brand and a taste of her First Resort line. Right off the runway, pieces were sold and orders were placed for some of the more intricate of her bamboo and beads’ masterpieces.

Montreal Caribbean Fashion Week was held at the Oscar Peterson Concert Hall at the Concordia University, and attracted a wide cross section of ethnic influenced fashionistas and many members of the performing and visual arts, many of whom could trace their lineage back to the Caribbean. It was an exciting and rewarding evening for producer Gemma Raeburn-Baynes, who celebrated 30 years of her Montreal Ebony Models in the city of Montreal.

Sonia Noel Designs will be on show in Barbados at BMEX from May 21 to May 25, with the Guyanese contingent. Sonia's bosom buddy, celebrated Caribbean fashion guru the Trinidadian Richard Young, was creative director for both Hot Couture and Montreal Caribbean Fashion Week. Sonia and Richard earnestly look forward to the big plans of Guyana Fashion Week 2015, set for November 1-8.

Ten tips on

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Breakup Etiquette

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FTER entering a relationship with high hopes, having your heart broken is the hardest thing you can experience; and it happens to even the best of us!

including your ex) to pity you, and you don't want to come across as pitiable, do you?

Face the fact that it's time to move on. Whatever caused the breakup is still there, and all the extra chances in the world

Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp and other social venues will only prolong the pain. Give the breakup at least a year before you decide whether or not to reconnect, and only do so if you have become friends.

Nevertheless, your breakup etiquette shows what you are truly made of in what happens after the hard part.

Here are 10 tips you should practise when faced with a situation as detailed above.

8. NO PERMANENT PHYSICAL CHANGES: The last thing you need to do when you're in this state of mind is run out and get a tattoo, or take a drastic haircut! Give yourself some time to heal before making any permanent changes.

1. BE NICE: Be the sweet person you were before the relationship by keeping your anger under wraps. You'll get through the difficult times much easier as you practise being polite, and eventually it will seem natural.

However, if there is something you’ve been contemplating for a while, a breakup might be the extra push you need.

9. EX SIGHTING: When you see your ex out with someone else, do your best to avoid a confrontation. If you can't prevent a close encounter, smile and say, "Hi," and get as far away as possible. Don't make an awkward situation even more uncomfortable, and don't prolong the face-to-face.

2. GET BUSY: While it’s alright to mope and wallow in self-pity for a day or two, get busy after that doing something productive. Make your time even more useful by taking up a cause. You just might find a better match if you're performing acts of kindness and generosity.

10. KEEP LOOKING: It's time to get out there and mix and mingle. Let your friends know that you're single again. They might know some fabulous people they can introduce you to. Even if you don't get romantically involved with any of them, it's always nice to have more friends. However, be very careful of the urge to have rebound; try to take it slow.

3. CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS: It’s practically impossible to keep all the friends you had while you were a couple.

The general rule of thumb is to leave with the friends you came with, and any you made while together will naturally gravitate to the one with whom they have the most in common.

won't make things any different.

If some friends you like may be in an awkward position, then take the high road and maintain your distance.

7. SOCIAL MEDIA: If you follow each other on social media, stop doing so. Continuing to be connected through

4. AVOID GOSSIP: Although it's tempting to trash the other person when asked what happened, it's always best to take the high road. Just smile and say it's a personal matter, and change the subject.

Gossiping might make you feel better for…oh, say, about five minutes; but, after that, you'll know it was the wrong thing to do, and you're likely to be even more miserable.

5. SHUN REVENGE: Like gossip, getting revenge sounds sweet after being scorned. However, it is a terrible thing to do, and it could get you into trouble.

Friends and prospective romantic interests might see this as a sign of emotional instability in you.

If you're tempted to get revenge on your ex, step back, take a few deep breaths, and develop a philosophy about kissing frogs. You just haven't found your prince or princess yet.

6. NOT A CHANCE: Acting desperate by running to your ex and begging for another chance will cause others (possibly

Source http://etiquette.about.com/od/ RelationshipEtiquette

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Environmental Health and You

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ur Environment determines so much in our everyday lives and existence, whether it’s our personal or ambient surroundings. One big determinate of it’s ever changing state is our health; hence the concept of Environmental Health comes into focus. Environmental Health according to the World Health Organization places focus on all physical, chemical, and biological factors external to a person, and all the related factors impacting behaviours.

It further deals with assessing and controlling these factors in the Environment which can potentially affect our health.

When assessing our health and the environment it’s important to remember that our environment is either personal or ambient.

Our personal environment refers to our immediate surroundings or basically that which and where we can control, e.g., smoking, our diet, sexual behaviour or alcohol consumption in our

homes or office – for instance.

Ambient environment on the other hand, speaks to which and where we have little to no control, e.g., food additives, pollution and industrial products. By being able to distinguish between the personal and ambient environment, only then can we prevent and control the potential threats of our surroundings on our health.

The state of our health is dependent on our environmental risk and exposure, like maintaining a safe supply of food and water, disposal of our waste, control workplace hazards and reducing air, water and noise pollution. But how can this be done? It is made easier by good environmental management.

Environmental exposure causes hundreds of thousands of illnesses each year. In our homes we can start by assessing the basic chemicals used for cleaning. Each year we spend millions of dollars on products to keep our homes sparkling clean. Cleaning is supposed to be about maintaining a healthy home, yet some common household cleaning products contain chemicals that can harm human health and the environment. That is why it is im► Continued on page XXXIII

Chronicle Pepperpot May 24, 2015

Environmental Health and You

â–ş From page XXXII

portant to follow label instructions and pay attention to warning symbols to prevent harmful exposure.

Not adhering to directions and correct usage of common household chemicals like bleach and other washing detergents can cause serious and sometimes life threatening risk. Misuse or overuse of common household chemical like bleach and other disinfectants can cause irritation to the skin and eyes due to active ingredients like hypochlorite, ammonia and hydrogen peroxide found in these chemical. Even though some of these might be in small quantities, they can accumulate over time to reach dangerous levels.

When we use aerosols, e.g., air fresheners and insect repellents, chemicals linger and we can inhale them or they can enter our bodies through our skin or be ingested as a residue left on dishes. Research has shown that some aerosols can contain VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) like benzene, formaldehyde and toluene to name a few which are carcinogenic and have possible links to different cancers. These VOC’s are not just limited to aerosols but to paints, glues and even carpeting. They not only affect humans but our pets as well.

Products which are flushed down the drain can have a serious impact on aquatic ecosystems affecting the ambient environment.

Your place of work is not exempted as it relates to issues of environmental health. Besides chemical and biological exposure, you may be exposed to many physical, social and behavioural determinants of health depending on the type of job you do.

Take for example, your workstation if you are a clerical staff. Most of your duties are done at the work station using computers. Is your seating arrangement comfortable? Is your chair, desk and keyboard device proportionate to each other? Are you slumped over when doing you work?

If your answer to any of these questions is yes, the probability to possible exposure and health risk exists. Ergonomics is the science of matching the job to the worker and the product to the user. The goal is to reduce stress and eliminate injuries and disorders associated with the overuse of muscles, bad posture, and repeated tasks.

Failing to do so can expose workers to musculo-skeletal disorders (MSDs) which affect the muscles, nerves and tendons.

Work related MSDs (including those of the neck, upper extremities and lower back) are one of the leading causes of lost workday injury and illness. Workers in many different industries and occupations can be exposed to risk factors at work, such as lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures and performing the same or similar tasks repetitively. Exposure to these known risk factors for MSDs increases a worker's risk of injury (US Department of Labor 2011).

Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their workers.

What can your Employer do?

Employers can take measures to reduce risks to workers in the workplace e.g.: * * * * * * *

Provide Management Involve Workers Provide Training Identify Problems Encourage Early Reporting of MSD Symptoms Implement Solutions to Control Hazards Evaluate Progress

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ARIES - You’ll need to navigate through what could be a tricky week.

Mercury’s retrograde phase from Monday could cause delays, which means your best-laid plans could come to nothing. Rather than fret and fume, use this opportunity to research your options and get more information. Avoid manipulative and pushy people on Thursday and Friday, particularly any who may have an axe to grind. Stick with upbeat, generous folks for positive experiences and a happy social life.

TAURUS - Money matters could be subject to delays. You may have to roll with the punches, particularly if unexpected expenses show up or a payment doesn’t materialise. Even so, this might set you thinking about ways to improve matters and get your money working harder for you. On Thursday a rather intense influence might mean you see a side of someone you’ve never noticed before, which could be somewhat disconcerting. Even so, being in the right company can help you relax and recharge.

GEMINI - Restlessness and a desire to flee the real world may be stirring within you. Yet, because of Mercury’s retrograde phase starting Monday, quick decisions could likely cause trouble. If in doubt, a chat with a good friend can help you make the best choice. Some people may seem more aloof or distant than usual. Try not to take this personally, as it could be a different matter in a few days. Later, purchasing a few small luxuries might help boost your mood.

CANCER - News may arrive out of the blue involving a friend or relative who needs your help and support. A focus on your spiritual sector suggests you may be called upon to sacrifice time and energy in order to boost another’s spirits. There could be further obstacles to overcome on Thursday and Friday this week. A patient approach can help you avoid strain and struggle. By the weekend you’ll be ready to kick back with good friends and indulge a little!

LEO - The relationship planets are mainly feisty but fun, encouraging you to relax in good company. But Saturn’s presence in your pleasure and romance sector suggests a tendency to conserve your time and energy. This is just as well, as Mercury enters its retrograde phase on Monday, which could coincide with a lull in your social life. You’ll still have fun, but you’ll also have more time to relax and recharge. Don’t let someone’s edgy mood affect your enjoyment of a fun event on Friday.

VIRGO - Regarding goals and personal ambitions, Mercury’s retrograde phase, along with other stubborn influences, suggests progress could come to a halt. However, this can bring just the chance you need to rethink your plans. Such delays can expose weaknesses that might not otherwise show up. Regarding romance, someone with a jealous streak could try to jeopardise a new relationship. Don’t allow it! Turbulent influences could keep you on your toes, so it’s important to take time out to relax.

LIBRA - If you can iron out a family disagreement or handle a difference of opinion, then the week ahead has much to offer. There may be one or two issues to circumnavigate, and these are likely to involve other people’s stubborn mindset. There will be more than enough to keep you happily occupied once the Sun dances into Gemini on Thursday. In addition, Jupiter’s ongoing presence in your social sector adds a special sparkle to a sizzling date.

SCORPIO - Don’t let anyone rush you into making a decision or commitment before you’re ready. As Mercury turns retrograde it’s essential to read the fine print of a contract or legal document before you sign.

Someone may be feeling extra sensitive, making you feel like you’re walking on eggshells. In this situation it pays to be honest rather than tolerate someone’s manipulative tendencies. Romance can flourish when an opportunity for a special date enhances your natural passion.

SAGITTARIUS - Cultivating a taste for the novel or exotic in people and ideas can open you up to wonderful new experiences. Explore opportunities that can help further your interests and expand your horizons.

Mercury turns retrograde on Monday, for about three weeks, leading to delays and mixed messages. Think twice before signing important documents, particularly if there’s a lot of money at stake. This phase can also bring fresh perspectives to ongoing problems, encouraging ingenious solutions.

CAPRICORN - With wit, charm, and a cheerful outlook you somehow manage to say the most difficult things and get away with it. With Venus happily ensconced in your relationship sector, it’s a good time to convince someone that you’re the right candidate for a job or new relationship. However, it might not be all clear sailing this week, as someone’s stubborn outlook could put things on hold. All will be well if you refuse to take it personally and instead go with the flow.

AQUARIUS - A surprise may be in store this week and it could be due to Mercury’s retrograde influence. There’s a chance you’ll bump into someone you once knew or hear from an old college or work pal. It might also be wise to check on those you haven’t seen in a while and offer support should they need it. Romantic opportunities seem plentiful, but you may prefer to explore subjects of interest or perhaps get involved in competitive sports to burn off excess energy.

PISCES - Someone may share a secret that alters how you view a situation. In this instance it affects you in a good way. As Mercury turns retrograde from Monday, for about three weeks, expect disruptions and delays at home. A guest may cancel or a party may not proceed as planned. You might have to contend with obstacles, but a cheery, upbeat approach can help you breeze through the coming days. Later, a romantic liaison could grow in strength and passion.

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SALVAGE AND CREATE

DIYs, beauty and fashion tips from Raveena Mangal

B

EFORE hitting the pharmacy or store for a quick fix to common beauty problems, check your pantry for simple ingredients that work just as well. And remember, these are all tested and true remedies.

If the problem is chapped lips, the natural solution for an easy fix is to use brown sugar mixed with coconut oil, or petroleum jelly and a wet wash cloth to gently exfoliate scaly skin; then apply the latter to moisturize lips deeply.

For a lip treatment that will leave your lips soft and smooth, mix together 1/2 teaspoon honey and 1 teaspoon olive oil, and apply it just before you go to bed.

If the problem is acne, the natural solution is: 1. A mixture of 1/2 tsp of cinnamon and honey applied to the blemish, covered with a band aid and left overnight. It zaps a zit.

2. When desperate times call for desperate measures, garlic is pretty wonderful when it comes to clearing away the pimples.

Peel a clove of garlic and then mush it up well with a fork.

Apply the mush to your pimples and let it set for 20 minutes.

3. Dissolve some salt in lemon juice for some serious drying power. Rub the mixture on the zit and leave on (being aware that lemon juice is also a bleaching agent and can cause sensitivity to the sun).

If the problem is frizzy hair, the natural solution is to mash half an avocado, or alternatively an egg yolk, and two teaspoons of olive oil together. Massage this mixture into clean, damp hair and leave on for about 20 minutes, before rinsing thoroughly and following with a light conditioner.

The ingredients are deeply moisturizing, which helps tame frizz-prone hair.

If the problem is dry skin, the natural solution is to mix the juice of one lemon with five tablespoons of sugar and one tablespoon of olive oil. Scrub this mixture on your skin with the palms of your hands while you are in the shower, then rinse well.

Lemon contains natural alpha-hydroxy fruit acids to loosen the "glue" that binds dead skin cells together, while sugar is a gentle exfoliator that cleans pores and increases cell turnover. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E to nourish and condition skin.

If the problem is dry cuticles, the natural solution is to add a few drops of coconut oil to a pea-sized dollop of your favourite cream, or use petroleum jelly, and rub this generously into each of the cuticles on your hands and feet.

For enhanced benefit, wear plastic gloves and socks overnight for 10 minutes, to let it sink in.

If the problem is ingrown hairs, the natural solution is to dissolve four aspirin tablets in half a teaspoon of warm water and mix in one teaspoon of honey to form a paste.

Apply the concoction to the affected area, and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which is a potent exfoliator. Plus, it’s an anti-inflammatory, which reduces swelling.

NOTE: It is important that you steer clear of this treatment if you have especially sensitive skin.

If the problem is stained teeth, the natural solution is to mix three teaspoons of baking soda with one teaspoon of water to form a paste. Scoop up a bit of the mixture with your toothbrush, and use to brush thoroughly. Repeat this procedure two to three times per week.

Baking soda polishes teeth and removes stains, though it isn't recommended for daily use because it can be too abrasive on tooth enamel.

Source: http://www.womenshealthmag.com , http:// www.crunchybetty.com

This diva has her sights set on the Grammies

Packing a wallop on the international scene

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By Alex Wayne

PRODUCT of teenage love with all its steamy intensity and magical enchantment, the road to popularity for the iconic Lisa Mary Johanna Punch started with her winning the Star Guyana competition in 2006/2007, when she belted out the Whitney Houston version of the evergreen ballad “I’ll always Love you.”

She became the ‘sweetheart’ of many, even as she went on to graduate from North Georgetown Secondary School as a student of excellence in 2009. She thereafter studied Communication and Law at the Bishop’s High School in 2010, before she ultimately got into the media, her first experience coming as a co-host of the ‘Hard Vibes’ all girls talk show on Channel 2.

She worked as a full-time announcer at the National Communications Network (NCN) from 2011 to 2013, and also did some airtime at Hits and Jams Radio. All along, she was singing and recording music with Brutal Traxx Studios and then DP Records.

She made appearances on practically every stage and at almost every major as well as minor forum, doing what she loves most and does best --singing. Small wonder, then, that her voice was the chosen one to deliver the CARIFESTA Theme Song when her native Guyana last hosted that regional mega-event.

Lisa Punch is undoubtedly an outstanding Guyanese. She has travelled the proverbial road, and has had many ups and down as her family struggled to make ends meet; but she has always managed to flash a bombshell smile that has invariably turned the sad world right side up for many despairing persons.

Lisa has produced quite a few songs, among which are ‘Secret admirer’ and ‘One last cry’; but her tribute to her mum, aka ‘Oh mamma’, is the tear-jerker for many. It is timeless, and still causes goose bumps as it pulls at the heart strings of many.

Lisa is a go-getter who, after migrating to the USA from a cramped apartment in Charlotte Street, Georgetown, almost immediately “hit the ground running” and ended up acing a bartender’s course.

What makes her an enviable standout is the fact that she knows what she wants, and goes after it with the determination and tenacity of a pit bull terrier.

That attitude landed her a place in the ‘amateur night’ at the Apollo in the USA, after beating the rains. She made it to round two in the competition, but an offer to be in the world-renowned ABC Rising Star competition in 2014 saw her shelving the Apollo competition.

Because of Lisa’s enviable persistence, the world heard of some of the realities of Guyana; and while some had issues with how she portrayed her homeland, it was her reality that saw even her haters warming up to her.

Lisa’s “power Punch” caught the attention of international weatherman ‘Al’, and he also rooted for this Guyanese-born,

Brooklyn-resident girl. Unfortunately, she was knocked out of the Rising Star competition after raising the wall, but she caused many Guyanese to be united in their admiration for her and in their pride in the capability of Guyanese, when formerly they had ignored her abilities.

Even the nation’s then sitting President -- the Honourable Donald Ramotar -- celebrated this pint-sized Guyanese icon.

The young lady who had quietly left Guyana for a new life in New York had come back to much fanfare after her dad and mum had been reunited in the USA. I’ve known and interacted with this young lady in Guyana and in the USA, and I can attest that she is always humble but persistent; so I know for a fact that she is going to fly the Guyana flag anywhere she goes. And for that, she is Guyana’s rising star in the making.

This writer is confident that Lisa’s infectious laugh, her genuine personality, and her golden voice will one day land her on top of the world, so to speak. Already, she is on her way there. Based on what I know, as she always keeps me in the loop: 2015 will offer Guyanese a few surprises, music videos, and Lisa big recording engagements that will see Guyana and the world celebrating her every Punch.

Guyana loves you, Lisa! We urge you to keep the exclusives coming, as everyone is anxious to know how you are faring in the new land of your domicile. Best of luck, and God bless!

Lisa Punch is a Guyanese songbird with a golden voice

Lisa Punch giving a scintillating rendition of Guyana’s National Anthem at last Monday’s swearing in of this country’s 8th Executive President, Mr David Arthur Granger