Pot 05 11 2017

See inside:

The enduring value of music education

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Creating a ‘youth’ safe environment in society ► Page

Being Guyanese is my Superpower

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Selwyn Hinds, Hollywood and working with George R.R. Martin

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Editor’s note This week’s Pepperpot focuses on two things in particular: education and culture- which we believe are ever-important elements to our success. We look at ways in which drama and music can be infused into education to make it engaging and to help young people to diversify in their tal-

ents. In the area of culture, we follow the journey of one young entrepreneur who is determined to imprint unique aspects of Guyanese culture on pieces of clothing in hopes that they will tell the story of Guyana far and wide. Meanwhile our lead story tells how one man’s pride for being

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017 Guyanese is so deep that he believes it is the single most important element that has led him to Hollywood to work with one of the biggest writers in the world. In all these things, the Pepperpot Magazine celebrates Guyana- the things that are important to us, and the things that are unique- and how these things can be preserved and/or achieved by accessing the right channels.

The enduring value of music education

A focus on ‘Foundation 7’ By Gibron Rahim

MUSIC has a power all of its own. It can inspire reform or revolution or stem the tide of anger. Music brings peace and calm. It can even connect us to the divine. Yet, for all its might, it is often neglected and relegated to the background as is the case with other forms of artistic expression. There are groups and organisations in Guyana that are dedicated to nurturing interest in the arts in Guyana. ‘Foundation 7’ is one of these. The music school devotes Students of Foundation 7 during a itself to educating its students, especially performance (All photos courtesy young people, in the theory and practice of Foundation 7) of music. Foundation 7 has been around for the last first taught the basics of voice training, as nine years. The Pepperpot Magazine con- well as musical instruments and are given tacted Sharon Sulaman, Administrator of the the opportunity to develop talent, enhance `Foundation 7’ Music School, who was able education and discover new skills. Training to give a background on the foundation and is offered in keyboard/piano, recorder, guitar functioning of the school. `Foundation 7’, also known as `F7’, began in February 2008, as a sole-trader family business with a focus on offering hands-on training in playing musical instruments, as well as voice training. The endeavour started off with three musically talented couples. A young student on drums They seized on the opportunity to share their talent for music with others when a building became available for lease. After serious deliberation on many options, the couples finally decided that music education was the best route. They had come to realise that music was becoming a fading art in Guyana with limited options for learning to play an instrument. They wanted to change that by sharing their knowledge and skills with Guyana. The music education they wanted to offer would take a holistic approach. Today, this approach is reflected in the use of the phrase “Foundation 7 – Completely You”. The name of the school itself reflects the collaborative effort of the three couples who decided to found the school and their strong belief that true success comes from placing God in the center, in everything they do. Hence, the ‘seven’ in the name are the three couples and God. `Foundation 7’ offers courses at three levels – beginner, intermediate and advanced. Each course lasts a total of eight weeks. Students are

and drums. Voice training is also offered as the voice itself is also a musical instrument. Classes at `Foundation 7’ are usually held on weekdays and also on Saturdays. The school issues local and international certificates, especially for the benefit of students interested in going even deeper into music, or perhaps, even pursuing a career in music. And even if not, the school’s purpose is to “provide, at a reasonable cost, musical instruction that can be used in schools, churches, music clubs, etc.” This ties into Foundation 7’s catering to the needs of all ages. It was noted though that technical training begins from six years old, an age when younger children are generally able to grasp difficult concepts. Indeed, age is not a barrier to music education. Foundation 7’s oldest student by far is Samuel Patrick Cordis who plays the classical guitar. Cordis, who is 94 years old, resides in Essequibo and travelled by speedboat to attend classes on Saturdays. The `F7’ team consists of teachers who combined have over 100 years of experience. These knowledgeable instructors help students to develop a background in music that prepares them for a wide range of further educational and vocational activities, that include music as a component. They also gain knowledge of compositional techniques and performance practices of various style periods, while at the same time enhancing their appreciation of the arts. Hundreds of students have passed through the school over the

last nine years. Noteworthy too, is the fact that some of these students have moved on to form their own bands. The school is known for its two signature events. The first is its Summer Music programme offered during the August school holiday. Students can learn to play an instrument in as little as two weeks in the course of the programme. The second signature event is the annual recital/concert and musical production. The main purpose of this event is to give Foundation 7’s past and present students an opportunity to exhibit their talents in the areas of guitar, keyboard, drums and vocal training, all while accompanied by a live band. This year’s musical production will be held at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) on December 2, 2017 at 19:00 hrs. Titled ‘Hope Alight’, the production is positioned right at the beginning of the Christmas season and is one for the entire family. This year `Foundation 7’ will be showcasing more than its musical talent – drama and dance will be included in what will be a theatrical production. It is Foundation 7’s tradition at the event to honour an organisation working with vulnerable persons in Guyana. The organisation selected this year is the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre (RCHCC), a home which was established over 10 years ago to help orphans and vulnerable children. Despite all the challenges associated with starting up a business that `Foundation 7’ has faced, the school has remained in business and has maintained a presence over the last nine years. Foundation 7’s vision is “to be the premier music school in Guyana through our unique and fun-training programmes offering local and international certification.” Those interested in learning more about `Foundation 7’ may contact the school at 225-1151 or at Facebook.com/ foundation7.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

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Creating a ‘youth’ safe environment in society By M Margaret Burke

these resources.

SWIFT – Social Wellness Interest for SOCIAL COHESION Teens is a youth organisation formed by “All of us in the group have our own chala group of teenagers when they were yet lenges, even as members of the executive body in Fourth Form at St Joseph High School – we all have challenges,” said Deneita, who in the city. said that their biggest challenge at first was Founder and President of the group is “getting social cohesion.” However, having 17-year-old Deneita Fredericks, who, along been able to meet as an executive body to diswith other members of the group was at the cuss the way forward and plans for the group, time in Fourth Form, heading toward the she said that they were able to come up with Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate agreements, which would help to make the (CSEC) examinations. However, they all group successful in the various endeavours. grasped at the idea of forming the group “As a 17-year-old, this was a bit of a chalafter discussing the ideas that were put lenge for me and I know that along with line before them. people would ask, ‘why are you doing this?’, “As a teenager in life we all tend to but it is because I want to make a difference have our ups and downs, and many times in society,” Deneita said. “People would say we feel like if we have no one to talk to that the children have already gone astray in and this problem that is occurring causes us life – you can’t bring them back and that is to lock ourselves in, and with this lack of their decision, but this is what our group was attention by society we feel so alone – we formed for – to be there to speak to them; to tend to lash out on other people; we tend to help them; to help them feel wanted; to help let other teens pressure us into doing stuff them feel like if they are needed in society,” that we are not supposed to do; we have she said. people committing suicide and the like,” She said she wishes to get the necessary Deneita told the Pepperpot Magazine. support from the wider public on issues af“Growing up I experienced this stuff; I went through it; I know what it is like; I know the challenges that you can face and Some of the members of the SWIFT organisation I didn’t have anyone to talk to. I felt like if I went to speak to people they will judge orphanages, which is really to help young me and they would look at me differently.” She said that because of all the issues affecting teens, children and this was a success.” she wanted to create a group where teenagers would be able to be a part of, and be given the chance to take part THE YOUTH HAVE A VOICE IN SOCIin activities to get their minds off what was bothering ETY Deneita said that one of the primary obthem, and at the same time be able to give back to the jectives of the group is to create a safe envicommunity. ronment for teenagers; an environment where Deneita explained that with the plan in her mind, teenagers do not feel alone; where they have she approached her fellow classmates and other Fourth someone to talk to and express themselves. Formers and together they decided to launch the group “We all know that teenagers do not always at school. “The group was launched; we got our logo feel comfortable to share their problems with and we then got sponsors from Dinas Embroidery for our adults, because they feel that the adults may teE shirts, which we use whenever we go out on official lash out at them saying like: ‘you are young, business,” she said. Deneita Fredericks, Founder you have nothing to study, you don’t have to Deneita reported that the group has been going well and President of SWIFT and they have been engaged in the counseling of some pay bills, you don’t have to do this or you don’t teenagers, who would have confided in them about their have to do that,” she said. So this environment, she posited, is one in which the fecting youths. However, she stated that she is aware that problems. youth would feel much more comfortable; also it is one some people do not really view a social group for youths as that will bring awareness to the wider public that the youth necessary because she believes that many people have already A PAUSE, A BRIEF SETBACK As the students entered Fifth Form and with the CSEC have a voice in society and they need to be heard. made up their minds that once teenagers behave in a certain exams encroaching on them they started experiencing way, they would not change. some amount of difficulties, effectively balancing studies AWARENESS PLAN Deneita , however, concluded that the way forward for the Young Deneita stated that as a group, they go out to group is to “unite youths, bringing them together; to combat and the engagements of the group. According to Deneita, distribute posters and also seek some amount of publicity social ills in society, such as teenage pregnancy, suicide, “It was either one or the other.” She said that it became necessary for most of the so that people are made aware of the group and what they peer pressure, bullying and so on and make Guyana a place group’s activities to be put on pause for a year, which do so that they can do even more. where youths can join and unite with peace, love and unity Additionally, she noted that the way forward for the and generally make Guyana a better place.” she felt was an unfortunate setback of not being able to properly help other students who would have been going group is to make Guyana, “A socially acceptable place She said their group falls under the Ministry of Culespecially for the youths; a place where youths can excel ture, Youth and Sports and that the group is willing to through their own issues in life. “However, after the CSEC exams were finished we both academically and socially,” she said. continue to accept new members by contacting them at : She said that Guyana has a lot of resources that can be fredericksdeneita@gmail.com or telephone 648-7607, as fully continued the work we had started,” she said. “Last month we had our first Bar-B-Que, which was to raise harnessed and so, as a group, they just need the teenagers well as the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. (merenough funds to do a feeding programme at one of the to be able to reach their full potential as they benefit from cilinburke2017@gmail.com)

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Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

FILES E S A C COURT

Judge declined to quash bad Committal Order ’71 - Blamed accused JUDGE Vieira who heard the Motion accusing the magistrate of preferring the Committal Order, blamed accused Gordon Gill for failing to rebut the presumption of regularity. The hearing began after the calling of the indictable Felony case in January, 1971, but before the accused Gill and two others were arraigned on the larceny charge, the defence counsel moved a motion to quash the indictment on a bad and unlawful committal by the magistrate who had conducted the preliminary inquiry.

The defence counsel submitted that as nothing was recorded in the deposition to indicate that the magistrate did ask the accused whether he wished to call any witness on his behalf, in keeping with the requirements of s.66 (1) of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Ordinance Cap. 11, the purported committal of the accused was not lawful but was a nullity. State counsel submitted that it was for the defence to prove that it was the magistrate’s duty to record the fact of the statutory compliance, and that the onus was on the accused to rebut the presumption of regularity. Section 66 (1) of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Ordinance Cap. 11 provides: “66(1) After the proceedings required by the preceding section are completed, the magistrate shall ask the accused if he wishes to call any witnesses”. HELD: (i) there was no statutory duty imposed upon a magistrate to record the factum of his having asked an accused whether he wished to call any witnesses on his behalf; (ii) a motion to quash the indictment could not be properly maintained without evidence being adduced on the part of the accused to rebut the presumption of regularity; (iii) the accused had failed to lead evidence to rebut the presumption of regularity and, accordingly, the motion would have to be dismissed. Motion dismissed. N.J. Bissember for accused Gill. Nos. 2 and 3 accused in person. C. Kennard and L. Rockliffe for the State. Delivering the Ruling, Justice Vieira said: The three accused are indicted for the felony of larceny- contrary to s. 164 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Ordinance, Cap. 10. After this matter was first called but before the accused were arraigned, Mr. Bissember, Counsel for No. 1 accused, moved a motion to quash the indictment on the ground that it was preferred on a bad and unlawful committal order, in that the Preliminary Inquiry before the magistrate was conducted in a manner that contravened the provisions of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Ordinance , Cap.11 (hereinafter referred

By George Barclay

to as the Ordinance) and, specifically, s.66 thereof. His argument, as I understand it, is that as there is nothing recorded on the depositions to indicate whether the magistrate did in fact ask the No. 1 accused whether he wished to call any witness or witnesses on his behalf , which is a mandatory requirement under s. 66(1) of the Ordinance, then the purported committal of the No. 1 accused (and indeed of the other two accused as well) was not a lawful and/or a legal committal and accordingly amounts to a complete nullity. He contends that after the statutory caution is put to an accused person by a magistrate under s.65 of the Ordinance, he must then enquire of the accused whether he wishes to call any witness or not, in accordance with s.66(1) of the Ordinance . He points out that the operative words in s.66(1) are “shall ask”, which , he submits , clearly indicates that the magistrate has no discretion in the matter at all and is therefore bound to make such a statutory requirement and privilege available to the accused. Mr. Bissember stresses that the original depositions now before the court is not only the primary but, indeed, the best evidence, which cannot be varied, added to or altered by parole evidence, and he would strongly object to any attempt on the part of the State to call any witness to give evidence as to what actually took place before the magistrate and, in particular, whether the Magistrate did or did not in fact comply with the law. Mr. Rockliffe, in reply submitted that the authorities cited were not relevant to the point in issue, and that it was for the defence to prove that the Magistrate was under a duty to record the fact whether he asked the No. 1 accused if he wished to call any witnesses or not. He contends that the absence from the record of any indication whether the No. 1 accused was in fact asked by the Magistrate whether he wished to call any witnesses or not, is not conclusive or the fact that this was not in fact done. Sub-ss. (1) & (2) of s, 66 of the Ordinance imposes on the Magistrate a duty to make a record, only if a witness shall have testified. He points out that the form for the statutory caution under s. 65(1) of the Ordinance is Form 3 of the Fourth Schedule and that the actual committal form (Magisterial # 221), is not in fact a statutory form but a mere administrative one. Mr. Rockliffe further contends that as the point has been raised in this forum, the onus is upon the accused to rebut the presumption of regularity and, if no such evidence is called, then the submissions ought to be overruled and the trial should proceed in the normal way Justice Vieira concluded: In the course of his arguments, Mr. Bissember made it quite clear that the No. 1 accused would not be giving evidence neither would he be calling any witness to prove what actually took place before the magistrate. Equally, Mr. Rockliffe had emphasised that the State also would not be calling any witness on this particular issue. In the final analysis, therefore, for the reasons I have given, I hold and rule that the onus is upon No. 1 accused (and indeed on all three accused ) to rebut the presumption of regularity that, to my mind, clearly arises in this matter by sworn evidence to the contrary before this court but, as the No. 1 accused has seen fit to decline to do so, then the committal by the magistrate must be taken to have been done both lawfully and legally and, therefore, the motion to quash the indictment is not sustainable and is, accordingly, dismissed. Motion dismissed.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

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#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

OBSCURITY AND THE ARTIST

AT the farewell party to mark the end of this year’s A lone lighthouse on the vast Casco Bay International Writing Program, a wonderful woman made a joke to the 34 visiting writers, the punchline of which was that “many of us [writers] are doomed to obscurity.” I laughed, of course, because it was truly a perfectly, timed piece of comedic gold that matched the mood, setting and host of people who were present at the event. But immediately after that, my imposter syndrome kicked in and I began thinking that out of the 34, I may actually be the one most likely to be doomed to obscurity. I mean, I am from Guyana (already quite obscure to the rest of the world), a place where there is little being done to support the arts – and in my mind that the way it is both perceived and dealt with was enough to convince me that my future was going to amount by writers and other artists. I have learnt that to nothing and I was not going to leave a if one can teach oneself to be disciplined when it comes to the creative process, and to long-lasting impression on the world. I think obscurity is a fear that all artists enjoy writing and to enjoy having whatever have at some point in time. It is important to dedicated audience is offered to you, whether mention here that rejecting obscurity is not it is a houseful or one person, then that is all the same as attempting to seek fame or trying that really matters. If you have one follower on Instagram to be universally acknowledged. Artists reject obscurity because it is a cloak that veils their who avidly continues to share your Insta-powork from the world – and what is the pur- etry, then you are not obscure. You matter to pose of the artist if not to have his/her work that audience member. If only your family reach people? Every facet of the arts has to and friends come out to see your plays, then do with communication and engaging with you are not obscure. Your family and friends an audience of some kind. Obscurity then is are your audience members. If your stories a sort of innate fear for any artist. Obscurity, only get two views online, then two people because it indicates artists who are unable to took time out of their day to read your work. If only a handful of friends keep asking to meet an audience, means failure for artists. As a writer, I previously understood read more of your work, then your work evading obscurity to mean that I must work as hard as possible and do whatever it takes to get my work out to as wide an audience as possible. In a strange way, this mission to do something, to create work that would ensures a sort of Ozymandias-like immortality through what I create, was what continuously spurred me on over many years to do my best work at university, in my plays, in my prose writing. The fear of obscurity, in other words, was great motivation for the creative process. So much so that there came a point when I forgot to actually enjoy creating, and began to enjoy the idea that whatever I did was leading me towards securing that statue of myself that would be around for a very long time after I am gone. However, over the past several weeks, I have begun to rethink the concept of obscurity and

is important to those few friends. You are not obscure in any of these cases. I have realised that, yes, it is human nature to desire more. But to desire more while ignoring what you have is nothing short of selfishness – and, of course, acknowledging what you have is an essential first step to acquiring more. I guess one of my main epiphanies now is that every artist fears obscurity, but what we should really fear is selfishness and the rejection of people and of an audience that we have while chasing one that we may never get. The fear of obscurity is a double-edged sword that we must be wary of. It drives us to do our best, but on that journey there lies the potential to lose sight of so many other important things.

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Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

Seventh-Day Adventists celebrate Youth Congress 2017 By Marinella Glasgow YOUTH Congress 2017, held on Oct 27-29 was a spirit-filled weekend under the theme, “SERVE”. It began with a consecration service on Friday evening at the Olivet Seventh-day Adventist Church. The service entailed a youth forum where persons were able to express their thoughts and share suggestions for the effective leadership for the New Year; thereafter receiving a spirit-filled message which was delivered by Pastors Rodwell Anderson. At the youth convention, leaders of the various youth federations were given the opportunity to relate the work that they have been engaged in throughout the past months of the year. All federations The Youth Convention at the Durban Park pledged to do their best in serving the Lord in the upcoming year. The message was proclaimed with power by the Youth sea of people came dressed in magnificent Director of the Caribbean Union Conference colors to support their federations amidst the (CUC), Pastor Anthony Hall. The message inclement weather pattern. was heart-touching and thus many persons The atmosphere was most exhilarating as surrendered to be servants of God at the time of commitment. This event was held at the Jubilee Park. The afternoon’s programme was altered from the regular parade around Georgetown. Instead, the Youth Bands took to the streets in the afternoon on a distribution of hampers to less fortunate communities within Georgetown. Four communities were visited: Albouystown, Durban Backlands-Lodge, Leopold Street, Werk-n-Rust and Laing Avenue. The cool evening captured an exciting night of six-overs cricket matches at the DCC Ground, where the teams rivaled each other to obtain the top position. To bring the curtains down on Sunday, the signature of Youth March to go into Durban Backlands- Lodge Adventism: The Ashton Alleyne Memorial Youth Athletics Championships, was held at the Georgetown Cricket the Mercury Pathfinder Marching Band and Club (GCC), Bourda, where 19 federations Salcah Drum Corp captivated the spectators grouped into eight zones, battled to see who by their rhythmic beats. Many spectators would be proclaimed “Champions of the hurried to the food court as the aroma of the Year.” The day was met with great joy as a delicacies tickled their noses. The spectators

were also entertained by the commentator, Mr. Horaytious Demattos, and the sounds of the rhythmic music by the Quiet Storm Sound System.

One athlete, Alwyn Prince, related “It’s a great opportunity where the youth like myself can showcase their talents. We don’t have to wait for inter-schools but we can enjoy ourselves because of this occasion.” The loud shrieks were heard as the athletes strived to be first to cross the finishing line. Different age groups all sought the opportunity to be champions of their category and to receive the medals and trophies. The races were paused as the march pass took place. The athletes of the various federations marched around the ground to make a statement of their presence. The scenery was most delightful as cheerleaders and members of the drum corps accompanied the dedicated athletes. They were judged by a panel of judges who were mesmerised by the various performances. Several members also gave brief remarks at the event. The day resumed as the athletes continued to strive for the prize. The sun went down as the relays were run. Spectators rose to their

When asked about the event, one spectator proudly stated, “I’m proud to be a Seventh-Day Adventist. It’s great to have this opportunity to have fun with the youth from across Guyana, and I will continue to support the youth ministry and the great work that they are doing.”

feet as the mature athletes galloped across the finish line. The day culminated on a high note. Many persons left with great expectations to be a part of the Inaugural Caribbean Union Championship at the National Stadium in 2018.

Presentation Area, coordinated by the King and Queen of Camp Goshen Senior Camp 2017: Gregory Ifill and Crystol Nelson respectively

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

VII

The aging mouth ALTHOUGH it can be said that the major problems encountered in dentistry generally commensurate with the aging of the patient, there are widespread misconceptions with regard to such an implication. The importance of this fact has over time, has even resulted in the birth and proliferation of charlatan practitioners fabricating dentures. Interdisciplinary research in the human aging process (gerontology) has demonstrated that it is the effects of disease – and not aging itself – that is most significant for our perception of ourselves and others as either ‘youthful’ or ‘elderly’ in the later years of life. We should therefore not be afraid of age, but we should be aware of health hazards. We often become demure about our age as we grow older. We are so influenced by today’s youth culture that youthfulness remains ideal for us even when we have reached a considerable age. It is not surprising that the chronological aging process is a

traumatic experience for many. One of the first questions that patients have to answer at a visit to the dentist is how old they are! We love to classify people by age. There is a risk, however, that the date of birth becomes more significant than the individual. Birth dates have become a simple and practical means of identification in modern society. However, in biological age research, this combination of digits is more often nonsense parameter. It gives no indication whatsoever of how we function. The elderly individual does not lose his teeth because he has grown old. He loses them because of diseases, the oral diseases frequently mirroring the general ones. Remember, the risk of disease increases with age. Dental diseases and alterations in saliva and mucous membranes may be early symptoms of a decrease of general health status of elderly people. These may indicate a weakening of tissues’ biological defense

thresholds for different stresses. Few tissues in the human body must withstand what the oral tissues have to, not only in terms of possible dryness but also mechanically, thermally, microbially, chemically and galvanically (electrically). Oral tissues occasionally show relatively specific signs of system illness and negative social habits, but, most frequently, less characteristic reaction patterns are seen that cannot immediately be diagnosed. These are, however, usually specific for the individual and thus form a kind of biological ‘fingerprint’ which changes with variations with health. The vital point to note is that we are all biologically unique individuals from

birth and become functionally, increasingly diverse until we are very old. We must sooner or later ‘pay’ for the way we have used our biological resources. The way we pay has to do with our genetic make up, and the combined influence of the accumulated consequences of many years of physiological age changes, bouts of illness, uses and abuses of medications, risky lifestyles and wanton neglect to care our bodies. From a psychological point of view, we actually become caricatures of ourselves in later years and invariably we must take the blame.

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JUST as whiskey is the wine of Scotland and rum is the wine of the Caribbean, Salt Fish is regarded as a food of the Caribbean. Salt Fish, as we know it today, became an essential part of the Caribbean diet some 600 years ago after Columbus’ arrival in the Americas. It predates rice and “ground provisions”. When Europeans first arrived in the Caribbean, Central and South America, they found the rivers and shores teeming with fish. Fish immediately became an important part of their diet and since there were large deposits of salt in easily accessible places such as Curacao, fish began to

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

The salt fish industry and its modernisation

be salted so as to preserve it and provided them with a store of food as they travelled. Slavery was introduced shortly after Columbus’ arrival and Africans were fed with salt fish as a cheap, nourishing and easily obtained food. When the plantation system developed, salt fish as a cheap form of protein became a staple in the diet of the slaves. And over the centuries, the slave society developed a rich corpus of salt fish recipes, many of which survived after Emancipation. Among these salt fish recipes were salt fish cakes made in a variety of ways with various combinations and ingredients. Salt Fish was combined with other forms of cooking. Salt Fish and bread and Salt Fish and plantains became a unique part of the Caribbean diet. In addition, many Caribbean territories developed their own particular salt fish recipes such as salt fish and breadfruit cooked in a variety of ways in the Windward and Leeward Islands, and Akee and Salt Fish in Jamaica. Akee was introduced from West Africa in the 18th century to feed the slaves and it was immediately combined with salt fish to produce what is now the Jamaican national dish. When immigrants from China, India and Madeira were imported to work on the plantations, they too grafted on salt fish to their cooking as for example “salt fish choka” in Indian cooking. Most of the salt fish consumed in the Caribbean in the 19th and 20th centuries, up to the beginning of World War II, was imported chiefly from North America. During World War II salt fish could

not be imported because German submarines (U-Boats) destroyed ships and the resultant shortage compelled some people to experiment in producing salt fish. The local product was not successful in achieving the standards of the foreign imports and after the War, salt fish importation quickly resumed. In the 1970s and 1980s, Guyana experienced serious shortages of foreign exchange and salt fish was not imported and this was the catalyst which gave the push for the establishment of a local salt fish industry. Guyanese producers learned from experimentation and experience and were able to produce a salt fish fairly comparable to the best foreign import. Locally produced salt fish was widely used and was sold in the main groceries. In the last two decades, the quality of local salt fish deteriorated and the supermarkets did not stock it or very little of it. Into the reasons for this deterioration, we shall not go, but the salt fish smuggled from Suriname, probably produced in Holland, was a constant reminder of the poor quality of our local product. Salt Fish fell out of the diet of many people, especially the more affluent, but despite its poor quality, it was stoutly retained as a staple by the working class. Today, many of the salt fish producers use fish which is beginning to deteriorate and which could be bought at a small fraction of the price of fresh fish. And their methods of cleaning, salting and drying have remained primitive. The fish is dried in trays in the open which are subject to swarms of flies, bird droppings and dust and the finished product often has a rank smell. The regulatory bodies are understaffed and cannot execute detailed inspections of these producers. They are concerned with ascertaining that the final product marketed is wholesome and have to trust that cooking would destroy harmful bacteria. The immediate hope for consumers having a healthy salt fish of international standard lies in the competition in the marketplace. There are now emerging a few companies which are producing salt fish by state-of-the-art methods The staff engaged in these very few companies are appropriately attired with gloves, aprons and proper boots and preparation of the fish and salting are done mechanically and drying is done by solar power. The use of solar power is more hygienic and results in more efficient production since the drying process no longer depends on the vagaries of the weather. The few progressive companies produce with various types of fish such as snapper, trout, bangamary and others to meet the consumers’ pockets. These few companies are having a growing share of the market and other producers are realising that they have to raise their standards or go out of business. This is an example where the workings of the market are raising standards as much as the efforts of the regulatory bodies. One of the companies which think it is an exemplar in the modernisation and marketing of fish production, and in particular salt fish, is Global Seafood Distributors. Many consumers have complained that the price of good quality Salt Fish has become so comparatively high that salt fish, once the poor man’s staple, is now a luxury food. With the expansion of the Industry and the introduction of greater efficiencies prices will fall and be affordable to all.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

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Guyana’s quantum leap toward accountability By Francis Quamina Farrier EVERYONE likes to know what’s going on around them, especially with the things which impact their daily lives. With modern technology, we can access the kinds of information which our ancestors never dreamed of. For example, back in the colonial era, the average Guyanese knew absolutely nothing about the financial dealings of big companies which operated in British Guiana, such as Bookers and Sandbach Parker. In fact, Bookers was an extremely big and influential company in this country, employing almost half of the workforce. It was so influential that British Guiana was sometimes referred to as “Bookers Guiana”. Fast forward from the pre-Independence portion of the 20th Century in British Guiana to the 21st Century in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. To be more precise, November 2017, more than 51 years after Independence. Citizens are grasping with their newly-acquired power of being able to access hitherto inaccessible information as regards the financial dealings of their government with big business - both locally and internationally. On October 25, 2017, Guyana became the 53rd country to be granted membership of the Extractive Industries Transparency Institute (EITI), a global group of nations which embrace openness around the governess of natural resources. That, in essence, means that in the areas of extractive industries, such as Gold and Diamond Mining, Oil and Gas extraction, Bauxite and Manganese mining, the average Guyanese citizen can go online to and access details of the financial dealings of their government and big and medium businesses in the extractive industries. Heading the two-man team to Manila, the capital of the Philippines where the meeting was held, were the National Coordinator of the Guyana EITI, Dr. Rudy Jadoopat, and Mr Curtis Bernard, a member of Civil Society.

Last year he responded to an advertisement in the Guyana Newspapers for the position of National Coordinator of the Guyana EITI. He was successful and was appointed on February 1, 2017. The GYEITI Secretariat is based at the Ministry of Natural Resources on Brickdam in Georgetown. The Deputy Coordinator of the GYEITI is Ms. Diane Barker. The establishment of the GYEITI was promoted to the Guyanese people with five

Minister Raphael Trotman at the GYEITI out-reach meeting in Georgetown on July 20, 2017. (Photo by Francis Quamina Farrier) Dr. Rudy Jadoopat displays the documents of the PH-EITI following Guyana’s successful application for membership of the global group of Nations

For the two professionals, it was a long and tiring journey by air from Georgetown to Manila- more than 22,000 miles for the return trip! For regular long journey air travellers, it is known how physically and mentally challenging that could be. Nonetheless, irrespective of the long travel and many meetings in Manila, the objective was acquired with Guyana being accepted as the 53rd country into the EITI group on Nations. “I am elated that Guyana’s candidature application has been accepted,” was the reaction by Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Raphael Trotman, MP, under whose portfolio the GYEITI falls. The Minister further praised

all the stakeholders who were instrumental in Guyana’s successful application. Guyana’s interest in joining the EITI, goes back to the previous (PPP/C) Government, which made a commitment toward the International EITI on May 4, 2010. That government signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International EITI on May 15, 2012. With the change of Government in May 2015, the new (Coalition) Government honoured the undertaking of its predecessor. These developments were of interest to Guyanese-born Dr. Rudy Jadoopat, who was at that time, based in New York; but who made regular visits to his homeland Guyana.

out-reach meetings a few months ago; at Corriverton, Region Six, on July 8; Bartica, Region Seven, on July 12; Linden, Region 10, on July 15; Charity, Region Two, on July 17; and finally in Georgetown on July 20, 2017. At all the meetings, members of the public were afforded the opportunity to pose questions regarding the operations of the GYEITI, and what was clear, is that Guyanese are now empowered more than ever before, to know what is going on in the corridors of power, with the Extractive Industries Transparency Institute. The GYEITI website is at “www.gyeiti.org”, and citizens are encouraged to visit it as often as they desire.

The Night of the Reptiles Fight to the Death By: Abdool Aziz CAMOUDI – VS – ALLIGATOR IN front of our house was an abandoned trench, full of weeds, and the restless and perilous ‘home’ of the reptiles mainly camoudies and alligators, natural enemies. Each night a battle for supremacy goes on. The aftermath is blood, scattered flesh and ruffled wild lilies. FATAL ENCOUNTER For the better part of the evening, it was quiet. We sat on the verandah telling stories. There was no radio and the moonlight was bright. We could see the commotion. This was the mother of all battles – the 15-foot camoudi and the giant alligator were locked in combat. The alligator tried to sink it’s spike teeth into the serpent with no luck. That skin was like rubber. Then it lashed with its main weapon – its tail. The camoudi went on the defensive. Her only weapon was her

body. She tried desperately to wrap herself around the scaly hide of the alligator, but the animal was evasive. That alligator could really maneuver her tough leather body, trying to get the snake’s head. The camoudi ensured it kept its head hidden. STALKING BETS Road stragglers began to spectate. They enjoyed the reptilian ‘Gladiators’ and they wagered on the victor. My parents bet on the serpent. I chose the alligator. The fight waged on. We were ordered to bed. I lay on the grass mattress imagining the horrors in that mossy canal. I can still hear the grunts of the gator and the hiss of the serpent. I fell asleep. Dawn saw us rushing to the verandah. NO VICTOR It was all quiet – the battleground was a mess and the alligator was trapped in the deadly coils of the camoudi. Its mouth exhibiting its spikes with the dark glossy eyes wide

open. But where was the head of the camoudi? A shovel man on his way to work decided to poke the silent reptiles. No life. He dragged them to the shore – the head of the camoudi was fastened in the alligator’s mouth. Everyone lost their bets. The alpha heads fought to a deadly draw. SKINS AS TROPHIES It took workmen hours to uncoil the serpent and donated its skin to the museum. So. too, the alligator. Some peasants ate the meat. But the battle in the swampy waterway was continued by the young ones. It’s an age-old feud. The tail of the alligator and the drowning of its prey is its predatory skills. As to the serpent, its coils and its vulnerable spot is its head, not the skin. One prick into its head and the coils come a loose. Camoudis are deadly constrictors. Keep away from water edges and swamps. Do not walk your dog close by because that is prized meat from the cold-blooded monster.

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Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

A friendly face in the skies Flight Attendant - Laketa Mc Phoy By Michel Outridge WITH hard work and persistence, Laketa Mc Phoy’s childhood dream of becoming a flight attendant came through but it was not easy and this young professional credits her achievement to prayers and her belief in never giving up. This Kara Kara, Linden, resident told the Pepperpot Magazine that her dream came through after she successfully completed a six-week training course by Fly Jamaica in Guyana. She later went on to complete the tactical aspect of that training in Miami,which lasted for three days. She commenced duty as a flight attendant in March 2017 with the local Guyana office of Fly Jamaica. Mc Phoy said that this dream of hers became a reality just as she was about to give up and she is very thankful things turned out the way they did due to hard work coupled with the will to succeed. She described the flight attendant training as rigorous, during which she endured daily exams and sleepless nights studying, but it was all worth it. Mc Phoy related that once you put your all into something, you will be successful if you believe in yourself and that once you apply yourself diligently, it can happen for anyone. This 28-year-old beauty comes from a pageantry and customer service background and the traits learned in these areas became a plus for her in becoming a flight

their safety is her business. As such, she has to be alert at all times because once the plane takes off anything can happen. “It doesn’t matter how many times we fly, once we take off we pray for the safety of the passengers and crew members and we also want a safe landing,” Mc Phoy said. This cheerful young woman added that in her line of work they get to travel a lot and in the process meet people, including some celebrities, and if they are lucky they get to take photos with them to brag about later to friends and family. CHILDHOOD DREAM COME TRUE

Laketa Mc Phoy proudly displays her uniform before boarding a plane

attendant. Mc Phoy was the Second runner-up for Miss Jamzone, Guyana 2012, First runner-up at Miss Linden Town Week, 2013 and Second runner-up at Miss Guyana Universe 2014. She was also a customer service representative at Courts, Lucky Dollar and Digicel and a career guidance volunteer The Lindener on duty ensuring everything is ready for passengers to board at the Guyana Youth Corps. In addition, Mc Phoy has an Associate Mc Phoy as a child went to the airport a lot to see her Degree in Tourism, passes parents off because they travelled a lot back then, and she at CSEC and CAPE and is used to admire the flight attendants, the way they looked hoping to complete her Cor- in their uniforms. From then on, she told herself that one porate Law studies next year. day she would like to become one of them. “I never thought I could become a flight attendant but EXCITING JOB BUT HIGH I did it and I am very happy to do so, given the fact that RISK I put my all into it and it just goes to show that anything She told the Pepperpot is possible once you believe in yourself and work toward Magazine that the job is ex- it,” Mc Phoy said. citing in the sense that she The Lindener pointed out that it was tough because meets a lot of people travel- aspiring flight attendants were only allowed to redo exling from country to country, ams twice if they failed, but thankfully, she managed to but the job is very high-risk. pass all the exams. “It is not all about glitz For her, it was “go hard or go home” - her own little and glamour and parading at motto that kept her going and everything happened at airports, but the job entails the right time. long hours, hard work and She noted that sometimes she is out of the country two at any given time things can to four weeks at a time and she is loving every bit of it. happen that is why I am well Mc Phoy is among 34 flight attendants here in Guytrained and I know how to ana, but is the only Lindener among the lot. respond,” she said. All in all Mc Phoy is a happy-go-lucky kind of a S h e r e l a t e d t h a t a s a person whose childhood dream came through and Flight Attendant one must she is thankful it did and said it was all because she bear in mind her duty is to believes in the power of prayers. respond to passengers and

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The importance of influences LAST week’s tribute to Mr. Clarence Young caused me to think about the influence that people have on each other and how important it really is. I thought about how good of an influence he was to everyone around him- specifically how much kinder and more polite he made me. How much are we really influenced by others? How do we influence others? How important are those relationships? The answer to all is very much. The people around us have the ability to influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I believe that the company we keep says a lot about us; birds of a feather and all. I don’t think we necessarily do it on purpose, we just tend to surround ourselves with what we want and like – this can be both conscious and unconscious. On occasions, we can choose. If you would like to have a healthy, fun day- eat well and go to the gym etc., you are going to call your most strong-willed friend. If you want to have a lot of fun, you are going to call your wildest friend. However, sometimes these choices aren’t as obvious and conscious as we would like them to be. Some people affect us without us even knowing. Some people allow us to be kinder while others encourage our darker sides to come out. We all want to feel as though we are in full control of every aspect of our life but the truth is, our influences may have more control than we would like to admit. From the time we are born, our personalities are developed based on and around who raises us and who we surround ourselves with – our parents, siblings, friends etc. A good influence will have a positive attitude toward for your growth. They see your potential and help you grow it. They will encourage and motivate you. Most importantly, they will support you when you have setbacks. I believe that friends are the major influences in our lives as these are the people we choose the most. Not many can choose their family or co-workers. Half of the world doesn’t even choose their spouses but most of us choose our friends. Friends, both past and present, have shaped us into who we are. I actually only went to London to continue my education simply because a friend told me she was doing so and suggested that I look into it as well. That changed my whole path in life. One person did that. One thing I hope you all know by now is that we cannot control other people’s thoughts or actions. This means it’s up to you to ensure that you make the best decisions possible – for you and everyone else around you. Although we do not have full control over our influences, we have full control over whom and how we influence. It takes effort to have control but not much to have or be influenced. This makes our ability to influence others much more important than our ability to control. We influence people by who we are, what we do or say around them - without even trying and that is a superpower. The most important thing is to pay attention to whether our influence is good or bad. I believe that someone is always watching us and will be likely to mimic what we do. I believe that attitudes and

behaviours are passed on- good or bad. I believe that if I let a driver enter my lane in front of me that he would be more likely to let someone else enter shortly after. Even our mood can influence others. We tend to pull people toward the direction that we are internally heading. It takes one with exceptional resilience skills to pull someone in their internal direction without being affected themselves. It is difficult a advice to tell people to be around only positive influences as it is a bit unrealistic. Some people are simply toxic with their constant complaining or gossiping, negativity or putting us down. Even worse- sometimes we don’t have control as to whether they are around us. However, we can do our best to stay positive or keep distance. Do you feel like you don’t have many good influences around? The simplest solu-

tion would be to become one yourself. A positive attitude goes a long way to influence those around you. People are often turned off by negativity, anger and unpleasantness. People want others around them to be pleasant. Lead by example. I feel most like the saying “do what I say and not as I do” which is just noise. Leading by example shows others that it can be done. Show others how to be positive and kind -these are contagious. Be happy and supportive for and to others that are also setting good examples. There is enough greatness to be shared in the world. Respond healthily rather than react. When we hear something we don’t like, a typical response is an aggressive one. Being a good influence means to keep composed and be objective. Defend yourself with knowledge rather than aggression. Handle yourself with respect. Have manners – that also goes a long way Keep in mind that we are all human and all make mistakes – which is okay. If you still want to be a good influence after

making a mistake, simply admit them, accept them, make an apology, seek forgiveness and then learn from the mistake. Being a positive influence and force does not mean that you yourself do not experience sadness, anger, loneliness etc., it just simply means you adopt healthier ways of dealing with is. Ways that can be passed down to anyone. Studies done by sociologists have shown that the typical individual will influence an average of 10,000 people in their lifetime. What kind of influence are you? Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Or come in to see me at: Georgetown Public Hospital: Psychiatric Department: Monday- Friday – 08:00hrs-12:00hrs Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always

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Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

#SupportCreativity

So you’ve got an art degree, what next FOLLOWING last week’s article about the value of receiving a formal art education, I thought it would benefit readers if I outlined some of the career options available to persons who choose to venture down this path with the hope of creating a sustainable practice for themselves. Contrary to popular belief, there are endless career possibilities for persons with an art degree and that range extends far beyond the confines of a messy studio. In fact, I would go even further to say that we (Guyanese) have done ourselves a huge disservice by limiting our own understanding of the scope of art. But before any attempt is made to remedy this, it’s important to first acknowledge that all art degrees are not created equally. While a decent art education should cover most (if not all) fine art disciplines, some have a much stricter and limited focus. Therefore, a thorough assessment of your own degree is necessary in order to determine how far it could take you and which doors it can open in the process. Most persons here work under the assumption that if they wish to continue in the same creative field post-graduation their options are quite limited, with the more popular career choices being teaching, painting or graphic design. But in the grander scheme of things, there are hundreds of career possibilities for someone in the creative field. Those possibilities are multiplied even further when STEM skills are brought into the fold, increasing job possibilities for creative individuals with training applicable to various tech fields. Ideally, your art degree, whether BFA or MFA, should be a good balance of practical and theoretical components, thereby increasing your ability to cross over into multiple fields as you wish. So whether you choose a career that specialises in a fine art practice, art education or art and technology, your training would have, in most cases, prepared you to transition easily into any of those fields (or any combination of fields as is the case most times).

For those persons interested in continuing their studio practice the following career options are available for consideration: painter, sculptor, ceramist, jeweller, glass blower, illustrator (architectural, book or comics), printmaker, cartoonist, sketch artist, tattoo artist, mural artist, special effects makeup artist, installation artist and multi/mixed media artist. There are also career options out there for persons to provide products and services to other artists, for example, art supplies retailer and picture framer etc. These two, in particular, rep-

resent an incredibly under-developed market in Guyana with great potential. Digital and multimedia majors, on the other hand, can choose from the following: advertising director, creative director, graphic designer, sign painter, magazine or newspaper layout artist, book designer, product and/or packaging designer, typographer, photographer (portrait, product, wedding, stock, fine art etc.), photojournalist, director of photography, videographer, photo re-toucher, web designer, film/video editor, user interface designer, animator, digital 3D modeler, app designer, video game designer/developer, special effects designer, television/film producer, industrial designer, urban designer, set/stage designer and interior designer. Fashion majors have the following options: textile artist, fiber artist, fashion designer, accessory designer, fashion

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consultant, fashion merchandising and costume designer and personal stylist. For those interested in taking a more academic route these are a few options to consider:arts administrator, art historian, art librarian, art professor, art reviewer, art teacher, art therapist, acquisitions specialist, antique appraiser, antiques refinisher, art appraiser, art gallery curator, art gallery owner, art gallery manager, art gallery assistant, artists’ agent, museum archivist, museum curator, museum manager and art conservationist. These lists were not meant to be definitive since I’m almost certain that many more career options could be added. Instead, they were meant to give a general idea of just how wide the job range is for creative practitioners. There are many unexplored options available that, for whatever reason, we aren’t trained to consider as viable. Now, of course, some of the career options listed might not be applicable to our particular situation here in Guyana, but they were included for the persons who are thinking of moving their practice overseas. As I mentioned before, no two degrees were created equally. Some will allow you to go a bit further than others depending on the institution you attended. But it should be noted that these lists were also created so that they could be used (hopefully sooner rather than later) as an opportunity for individuals and/or organisations with the means, to create new job markets here that could benefit both the artist and the public. There are many niche areas that would add tremendous value to our country’s overall creative production if only they were recognised as valuable and given the right resources to develop properly. It’s important for those who can, to find the areas of our arts sector that have been neglected over the years and use the creative training they would have received to bridge those gaps and move our country forward.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

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Inspiring girls to become engineer

Luandra Jack

NEARLY every element of our modern lives is a result of the work done by some engineer: running water, electricity, the internet, as well as our buildings, cars, phones, computers, television, roads and even our phone apps. In highlighting how the role of women have changed in the agricultural sector over the years, the National Agricultural

Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is recognising its very own engineer, 29-year-old Luandra Jack in this week’s column. An ambitious Jack, joined the agency in 2013 as a Project Engineer at the Mangrove Restoration Department, having completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Guyana. Given the importance of mangroves to Guyana’s coastline, Jack’s job entails planning and implementing coastal engineering structures along the coastal sites which have been classified as potential mangrove sites. Mangroves protect vulnerable coastlines from wave action. They hold the soil together and prevent coastal erosion while supporting a rich biodiversity. The engineer ensures that cattle guards are established to support emerging mangrove forest against anthropogenic activities in the form of animal grazing. Adding to that, Luandra also assists NAREI whenever an engineer’s brain is needed in areas such as Auto Cad Drawings. Quizzed on her career choice, the young woman explained, “Growing up, I wanted to be a Geologist so I went into Geological Engineering at UG, to pursue my dream and at the same time make the best of my mathematical skill sets,” she said. She explained that during her first year, courses in Civil Engineering were merged with Geological Engineering and during this period, her interest grew in the subject. In her second year, she branched off into Civil Engineering and has not regretted her action since. It was while studying that Luandra developed a liking for the agricultural sector through the then Guyana Mangrove

Restoration Project. She explained that coastal engineering was a component of the mangrove restoration activities aimed at promoting the right site condition, to allow for the planting of mangrove seedlings and to enable mangrove forest to emerge naturally. “The coastal engineering component of the then Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project captured my interest to the extent that I completed my final year thesis on the first-ever implementation of a brushwood dam structure using iron bamboo to speed up mangrove growth along the coastline of Guyana,” the Engineer said. She added that this structure together with other interventions has now been implemented at various locations along Guyana’s coastland. She believes that her engineering knowledge and expertise is critical to the mangrove coastal engineering component, as NAREI continues to establish groyne fields at relevant sites to attenuate wave energy and trap suspended sediments (sling mud) in the lee of the groynes. During her time at NAREI, Luandra has worked on a number of projects. Some of these include construction of 135 metres at Anna Regina Brushwood Dam; installation of 150 metres Geotextile tubes in the form of two groynes at the foreshore at Devonshire Castle, Region Two; installation of a 360 metres brushwood dam in the form of a groyne field at the Walton Hall foreshore, Region Two; and the construction of 241 metres brushwood dam in the form of groyne field at the foreshore of Lusignan, East Coast Demerara. She is presently working on a 600 metres brushwood dams at the foreshore of Land of Plenty to Bush Lot, and 100 metres Geotextile groyne at Reliance, all areas in Region Two.

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Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

Being Guyanese is my Superpower

Selwyn Hinds, Hollywood and working with George R.R. Martin By Jasmaine Payne NO matter where we go in the world, Guyanese often find ways and means to utilise their abilities to make a mark in their surroundings. It is this attitude of “making a mark” that often times sees many Guyanese excelling in various parts of society overseas, and many of them will tell you that it is their strong upbringing that roots them firmly in place, helping them to not only do their best but stay humble while achieving their goals. Guyanese-born writer, Selwyn Hinds, will tell you no different. In fact, he will tell you that and then some. For Selwyn, who, since moving to the United States has racked up several accolades in Hollywood, his ‘Guyaneseness’ is not just what grounded him- it is his super power. “As writers, we all have our origin stories; we are all just like superheroes…My origin story is that I am from Guyana. It is the thing that defines me and sets me apart from writers here. It manifests itself in a lot of ways and I think the way I write is an amalgamation of a long list of influences,” Selwyn told the Pepperpot Magazine. “Some of it is a particular kind of British-type of schooling that we use to have back in Guyana. There is a structural way I write that comes from that kind of schooling. But a lot of it is from a bit of a cultural openness and fluidity… “Growing up in Guyana is different from growing up in the States… it feels like you’re growing up in a part of the world

Selwyn while shooting a VH-1 show he created/Executive Produced called “Choppin’ Wax”.

tural content that has helped his imagination to blossom and also makes a big imprint on his work. “One of the things you do a lot in Hollywood, you end up telling a very compressed version of your life, and whenever I start that conversation it begins in Guyana in St Gabriel’s where I was a heavy reader. The first commandment of being a writer is ‘thou shalt be a reader.’ I was reading Stephen King and heavy Science Fiction stuff and a lot of comic books and there is something about the cultural mix in Guyana as well… I was reading a brand of comic books that came from India that use to sell back then. It told about Hindu myths and the pantheon of gods. I always had a very cross-cultural upbringing that grounded me in kind of storytelling I do and that

where you have one foot in modernity and one foot in some ancient, undefined world… I grew up with tales of the `Ole Higue’ and the like, and those things will imprint on you, and I think it imprinted on my consciousness early and it has to do a lot with the kind of writing that I have done.” Selwyn’s beginnings are immersed in being an avid reader, consuming literature that was well above his age group. But he believes that it is the saturation of this mature, often multi-cul-

Selwyn during a walkthrough of the set for a BET show he created/ Executive Produced called “The Truth with Jeff Johnson”

Selwyn Hinds

is from Guyana,” he said. HIS WORK, HOLLYWOOD, AND HIS BIGGEST PROJECT YET Selwyn has certainly come a long way. His journalism and Turn to page XXX ►►►

folklore TOP TUNE Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

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By Neil Primus

JASON was an accomplished musician. He was always featured in every local show and had also done a few short overseas gigs. After playing at the local theatre to a mature audience he slung his guitar over his shoulder and headed home. Tonight he had company. A gentleman walked with him and they chatted amicably. “What’s up friend?” the man asked. “Just heading home after a show,” Jason responded. “You look like a musician, that’s your guitar?” “Yes, just finished playing at the theatre in town,” Jason said. “Nice. You must be a good musician.” “I am.” “I play music myself.” The man smiled when he spoke. “Really?” Jason was surprised. “Yes, I play in a rock band,” the man said. “Well, I never played in a rock band. I am not a fan of rock,” Jason declared. “If you’re a good musician you can play anything,” the stranger said. “Guess you’re right.” “Look, why not come and practice with my band tomorrow night?” The stranger’s invitation came unexpectedly. “Sure. What time?” They settled for 21:00hrs. The next night, Jason arrived promptly at the house he had been directed to. It was located two villages away and had once housed a small cinema. Jason was introduced to the other members of the band. His friend from the night before was the band leader. Harold was his name. There was a drummer, a man playing an organ, a bass guitarist, a rhythm guitarist, a saxophonist, two singers and a specialist on shack-shack. The most unusual member of the band was an

old man with most of his teeth missing. He played the harmonica. After a noisy tune-up, the band launched into a tune. Jason listened and tried to recognise the song. He could not. He waited politely for the next number. Maybe he’d known that one. The next and the next came and went and he was still at sea. In frustration, he shouted for the band to stop. Not being the band leader himself he decided to intervene. “Come on fellas, play something modern so that I can join wid you all,” Jason said. “Dis band don’t play rubbish!” Harold was angry at being interrupted. “Look, you guys are really behind times. You know this tune? It was a Top Tune!” Jason began playing ‘Staying Alive’ by the Bee Gees. “NO!” the response was unanimous. “Ok.” Jason tried again. “You know this number? Another Top Tune.” He started to jam ‘Hotel California’ by the Eagles. “Yes! But I hate it,” was Harold’s response. “It’s too spooky for my liking.” The harmonica player spoke up. “They spoil a good tune with jumbie runnings.” “We never spoil a song.” This comment came from the shack- shack specialist. Jason sighed. “You guys are

good but your music is outdated maybe by a few decades well.” “Well that’s wat we played. A good musician should be able to play anything.” Harold began packing up his instrument, the others were already doing so. “We gone!” he said to Jason. Then things got really wild. The rock band packed up their instruments and walked through the wall. Jason dropped his instrument and made a big hole in the wall. Giddy-up!

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There is drama in education By M Margaret Burke IN his 1994 publication ‘Drama in the curriculum’, writer and theatre expert, John Somers, reported that drama in education is really “the application of an art form which helps young people to develop insights and understanding through searching, planning, shaping and presenting dramatic material can be one of the most thrilling events in school life.” According to educationalists and drama specialists, “drama is doing”, it says that the essence of drama is understood as “make-believe play”, in which the participant pretends

that he or she is someone else, or something else, through role-playing in an imaginary environment. The study added: “When the chosen content is in accordance with curricular goals and objectives, drama may serve as an authentic method in education.” Somers’ study supported the view that with the help of play, children gain a feeling of control over the complex life issues they confront. Moreover, they learn how to struggle with difficulties and solve problems, justifying dramatic playing as important in a child’s social, creative, cognitive, moral and affective development.

THE SETTING IN GUYANA Director and actor, Ron Robinson, in discussing the subject of ‘drama in education’, told the Pepperpot Magazine that at one time, all the schools in Guyana were engaged in a bit of drama in the classrooms, and there were even some drama competitions within the schools. “I even did a bit in the schools in Berbi-

so that they have another year or two before they leave school, and keep it going so they seemed quite enthused about it,” Robinson said. “I think that we certainly need to have more drama in schools and one of the reasons is that I think that once the youth gets involved in a play, like those in which some of them face issues – where some of the so-

ce, in Stanleytown, and they did a piece of ‘Smile Orange’ and they were so enthused and I was hoping that they would continue. They wanted to do the play at the drama festival that was coming up and I told them don’t worry, even if it didn’t come off for the festival, they should keep a group going. And especially those coming up to the time when they were going to leave school, they should get them encouraged and get them involved

cial issues of the day are focused on; if they get involved in a play of that nature, I think that it would actually mold their minds into something positive. “You see, when they learn from being involved, in acting out the roles then they realise that it is not quite what they thought it were; it is a more serious matter than that. So I think that could actually educate and make Turn to page XXII ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

Proud Guyanese

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Celebrating Guyanese culture with Swank Clothing Co. By Gibron Rahim THE path to entrepreneurship can be a difficult one. Entrepreneurs oftentimes invest their own money into a venture, the success of which they cannot guarantee. It is even more so for business ideas that may be considered unconventional in Guyana. Jamall Hinds wearing one of his Big Market Tees with Stabroek Market in the background (All photos courtesy of Jamall Hinds)

Yet, there are stories of young Guyanese entrepreneurs who are working on making their dreams a reality. Among these entrepreneurs is Jamall Hinds with his clothing brand Swank Clothing Co. Creativity and design are no strangers to Jamall. A graphic designer by profession, he explained to the Pepperpot Magazine that he

had wanted to design his own t-shirts for his personal use as a means of expressing himself, for quite some time. It was in December 2012 that he designed his first t-shirt and did a few designs for his personal use. Some time passed after these early efforts but it was Guyana’s 50th Independence celebrations that saw a resurgence of Jamall’s interest in t-shirt design. A fellow graphic designer came to him with the idea for them to design and sell t-shirts that were reminiscent of Guyana. Together, the two designed a few t-shirts, but due to some difficulties, the

t-shirts were never put into production. The idea was put on the backburner once again. Eventually, in November 2016, Jamall came across a t-shirt design he had created years before. He decided to refine the design. That finished design became the graphic for the ‘Big Market Tee’. “I really liked the way it looked and I felt others would too,” he said. “That’s when I decided to launch Swank.” UPS AND DOWNS Turn to page XVIII ►►►

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The beginning of the venture was by no means smooth sailing for Jamall. While the production process was not a problem, the difficult bit was getting the t-shirts into the hands of the customers. Naturally introverted, Jamall found the idea of approaching stores to carry the brand discomfiting. In the beginning, he met with customers directly and that was the way the t-shirts were sold. There were some drawbacks to that approach, however. He noted that many people were skeptical of committing to buying a product that they had not seen in person. They preferred to go to a store and examine the quality of a t-shirt for themselves. Given the preferences of potential customers and his own introversion, Jamall realised that his original idea of having his brand in stores was the best way to go. He met with the owners of three stores and established a working relationship with them. The switch

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turned out to be more convenient for customers and himself alike. A BRAND IN ITS OWN RIGHT An important point of clarification, as Jamall explained, is that Swank is a clothing brand. It does not specialise in t-shirt printing. He has a relationship with a local printing store. That establishment handles the “getting the design onto the t-shirt” part of the process. CELEBRATING GUYANESE CULTURE Much of Swank’s focus is on designs based on Guyana and this aspect is a very important one to Jamall. He has observed, as we all have, that brands we see and wear every day have designs based on the United States. He made this point, not to imply that there was anything wrong with these brands or with the people who wear them, but to illustrate how American culture has in a sense Turn to page XX ►►►

Esan Benzy in a Not a Blade of Grass Tee

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Feeling inspired LAST Weekend I attended two fabulous events in Miami and Fort Lauderdale . This was my fourth year at the Chapman’s Illumination Gala at the Marriott Marque. The ambiance is always alluring and the centerpieces blew us away. It is dubbed the number one high profile socialite event in Miami. This charity provides for the homeless and has admitted 100,000 residents since opening over 20 years ago. I always look forward to the cocktail which gives you a chance to interact before the dinner, and it feels great when people remember you from previous years. If my feet were not firmly planted in the ground my head would have been swollen with all the compliments. Patrons are always so curious about my hair which they find intriguing. Every year the organisation acknowledges the persons in the room who generously contributed one million US dollars to the charity. The cost for the dinner is $1,000 USD a plate (which I can’t afford yet) and I am thankful to Bill Murphy for inviting me as a guest, to be a part of his table for the four years. An average of just 300 seats filled the ballroom. I was elated to see close to 20 persons (including me and my guest) of African descent attending this year. The first year I attended it was six, the next year it was 10, the third year it was 13. Although most people there were very wealthy, they were so warm, welcoming, and very engaging. I always make great connections at this prestigious event. As I was returning to my table from the washroom, a couple came and introduced themselves to me and wanted to know who I was. They mentioned that they are one of the sponsors and saw me earlier because I stood out so they were curious. We had such interesting conversations about life and they both said the 15-minute conversation inspired them and asked me to meet their kids when I am back in Miami. They even offered a huge fee for my service. As I continued to walk back to my table, I scanned the room with great admiration and imagined that one day my foundation will be hosting such an event. I got flashes of the young girl from a small town up the Essequibo River who had big dreams. With many rivers to cross and the water sometimes rough, she persevered. Even when she was walking the streets selling cakes and pastries, she knew then that, that was preparing her to propel into her greatness. She dreamt

about traveling the world and experiencing exciting adventures while meeting people from all walks of life. I am still dreaming and every day I ask God to guide me while making them realities. As I exited the Marriott Marque, April, the lady I was chatting with earlier hugged me and said that I have inspired her to do more than I’ll ever know. That comment added so much to an already marvelous evening because it also reminded me that I have a responsibility to share my stories. The next day, I was invited by Matris Batts to the Professionally Fabulous Women Event at The Histor-

ic Maxwell in Fort Lauderdale. It was an awesome gathering of like-minded women adding value to each other. The people in that room were politicians, CEOs, judges, lawyers, painters, many doctors and businesswomen. Some even owned their own jets. It was an absolute privilege not just to be there but to receive so many text messages from people expressing an interest to work on projects together. With all this networking overseas, all I’m thinking about is how this can benefit not only me but the women at home. We have already started planning for the Women in Business Expo 2018 and we are determined to raise the lid beyond expectations and God’s willing, we will. Send us a message to beyondtherunway1@ gmail.com and visit our FB page as we continue to enjoy this beautiful journey call life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel

... Inspiring lives through fashion

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infected people on an international scale. “Swank intends to take a step forward in the direction of having Guyanese culture do the same,” he said. The response Swank has garnered so far has been encouraging. Jamall related that people have told him that they love what he is doing and are surprised by the quality of the t-shirts. The one issue he has is that everyone who knows about Swank learned about it only through social media. While good in itself, Jamall hopes for more. He told the Pepperpot Magazine that he knows that Swank will get an even better response once he does more to make Swank’s name known to Guyanese living in Guyana or overseas. ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A PROFESSION Entrepreneurship is not for everybody. Jamall explained that, just as not everyone is meant to be a doctor or lawyer or accountant, not everyone is meant to be an entrepreneur. Being an entrepreneur he said means being willing to take risks which a lot of people are not willing to do. And there is nothing wrong with that. He explained that he himself has a nine-to-five job that enables him to fulfill certain responsibilities, even though he would much rather be able to go all in and fully commit to Swank and his graphic design business. He understands then why most people prefer the security that those jobs provide them with. Being an entrepreneur is not what is important. Working on your own dreams rather than someone else’s is the important part Jamal told the Pepperpot Magazine. Working a nineto-five job he said is nothing less than working on someone else’s business when you could be building your own. THE FUTURE OF SWANK There is certainly more ahead for Jamall and for Swank Clothing Co. but whatever the future may hold, Jamall is happy to represent Guyana with Swank’s designs. “I’m very proud to be promoting Guyanese culture... seeing people post pictures on Instagram wearing a t-shirt that I designed is a priceless feeling, to say the least.”

Blaze Antonio poses wearing a Big Market Tee

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more youths more positive and less leading towards crime, and that sort of thing if there is drama in education,” Robinson asserted. CASTING WHILE TEACHING Having taught English Language and English Literature at Central High School for a short while, Robinson said whenever he read a chapter he cast the chapter, using the characters in that chapter with some of the students in the class, which they acted out later, and the rest of the class became the audience, after

which there were discussions. He boasted that as a result of his approach to teaching English literature, he had a massive pass rate in the subject that year because of the drama. “When they asked about character so and so in the play, somebody who had acted it out, they just romped through,” he said. “They were so comfortable with the subject that they did very, very well and so I believe that ‘drama in education’ is something we should look at.” FROM PRIMARY SCHOOL He said that from the time children are

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in primary school, drama can make a big difference in their lives in a very positive way. At the same time, he maintained that if more parents, as well as officials, realise how positive drama can be in the young child’s life then they would give more support to drama in education. Moving ahead in time, it is hoped that drama would be seen as being an effective, as well as an indispensable tool for education, as well as a tremendous opportunity to enhance the individual growth. Drama can be used to create a learning environment where there is a special focus on group creation while working

in unison to discover new things and to create meanings about the world. Those involved, particularly at the decision-making level, as well as drama practitioners, should be adequately knowledgeable about dramatic contexts, the techniques of drama and the planning process in order to achieve the intended outcomes. Along with these characteristics, once there is appropriate curricular decision-making and knowledge about drama, dramatic methods will hold an essential place in the classroom, Robinson posited. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)

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Queen’s College celebrates

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Members of Queen’s College Interact Club releasing the balloons (Photo Credits: WEI Jun Wong and Queen’s College Lictor Live)

By Marinella Glasgow

ter a few months, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I was shattered because no one wants to hear that they have this disease,” Ms. Tinsarran said. “My doctor suggested chemotherapy but I was reluctant. I remember my family and I googling every single thing that could cure the cancer. It was then I realised that my diet needed to change. After combating this obstacle, I was then told that the cancer has spread to my liver. I was then instructed to go to New

AS the world celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness, the students of Queen’s College stood in solidarity with the warriors of this chronic disease. Recently, the Interact Club of Queen’s College hosted a seminar under the theme “We Care”. The programme was held in the school’s auditorium and was attended by the students, teachers and specially invited guests. The symposium was chaired by Senior Prefect, Vishani Ragobeer, who welcomed the students and spoke about the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness. The audience was further enlightened by Dr. Ghazi, of the Cancer Unit at the George- Ms. Tinsarran telling her story (Photo town Public Hospital. In his Credits: Wei Jun Wong and Queen’s College Lictor Live) opening remarks, he highlightDr. Ghazi making his presentation. ed the importance of having victim of this ailment. Ms. Tinsarran (Photo Credits: Wei Jun Wong and knowledge about this chronic ailment. He spoke of her journey and the chalQueen’s College Lictor Live) alluded to the challenges that are faced by the lenges she faced. She lamented on the victims and the vast numbers of death due to importance of having health checks. this disease. “Sometimes we take it for granted but we need York for surgery. “It is not like the old times where persons to check ourselves,” she said. “In New York, the doctors refused to cut accepted death as soon as they were diagnosed. my liver, remove the liver or anything of the She continued to speak of her days of Due to the skillfulness of workers and the inter- depression and tears. However, she praises sort because the cancer had gone too deep. I vention of Information Technology, breast can- her husband and relatives who always stood was then told that my cancer was as a result cer can be cured”, he reassured the audience. of my hormones. I received radiation and by her side. He concluded by encouraging the students “I was reluctant to go to the doctor but after other treatments that left me very weak but my to be informed and to be agents of change as my husband kept telling me ‘the pain you’re family was always there for me. Now that I am the world strives to combat this painful disease. in isn’t natural’, I decided to go. However, this better, my diet had completely changed. I am a Following his presentation, the students was one year later. When I went to the doctor, vegan. My hardest food to give up was cheese were introduced to a valiant fighter, he told me that I had a small fibrous lump. Af- but I knew I had to give it up for my own good. Ms. Tinsarran. She was introduced as a “Each day, I eat and drink countless

mixtures of vegetables and beans. My diet excludes sugars, fats and any other thing that would contribute to my cancer. I am a survivor and I’m here today to encourage you not to take cancer for granted. We need to check ourselves and to be educated.” She ended her story by requesting three things from the audience. “Be educated, be supportive and be strong. We don’t know how much we could avoid only if we are educated. Then we need to be supportive to those warriors of cancer. Many times when persons are diagnosed, their family and friends abandon them but we need to be different and be supported. We also need to be strong for those warriors and give our support. All in all, we might be the ones in need. The audience gave a standing ovation in support of the warrior who continues to fight against the disease. The vote of thanks was given by the President of the Interact Club, Sanifa Agrippa. “We are so thankful for the persons who are here to support us. Though we are but students, we are in support of the warriors of Breast Cancer and we will continue with all our efforts to support them.” Dr. Ghazi was then presented with a donation for the Cancer survivors by the Vice President of the Interact Club, Ms. Sarah David-Longe. The students were then ushered outside as they sang and released pink helium balloons in solidarity and love for the survivors of Breast Cancer.

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Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

Donna Ramsammy-James wows with

‘My heart beats in Africa’

LAST SUNDAY, the Herdmanston Lodge came alive as well-known designer Donna Ramsammy-James presented her Shape 2018 Collection ‘My heart beats in Africa’. As was reported in the October 22 edition of the Pepperpot Magazine, this was Ramsammy-James’ final big showcase as she moves on to focus on her personal life and other aspirations. The hour-long showcase incorporated rich colours, vibrant prints and a heavy African influence through music, dance, fabric, jewellery and other elements. This was Ramsammy-James at her best. For those of you who missed it, here are scenes from last Sunday’s event. The showcase also featured children’s wear

The models showcased the designs using stunning choreography

Donna Ramsammy-James gives a speech after the showcase (Pictures by Delano Williams)

The showcase featured rich fabrics and African jewellery

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Scenes from Strut II

THE month of November started off with a bang as local designers brought their best to the runway at Strut: Live the Runway Volume II, which was hosted by Traits Model Management at the Marriott Hotel. Among the designers, well-known names such as Randy Madray, Olympia Small- Sonaram and Mwanza Glenn did not disappoint, and showed that the local fashion industry is indeed one to be reckoned with. Here’s what you missed:

Mwanza Glenn’s “From Lady to Dam” Collection

Randy Madray’s “Between the Lines” Collection

Olympia Small-Sonaram’s "Curves" Collection

Randy Madray’s “Between the Lines” Collection

Sidney Francois’ “Things Above” Collection

Andrew Harris' Collection

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The magic of

No. 63 Beach Folks on the beach socialising

By Michel Outridge THE journey is worth the hours travelling by road from the East Coast Demerara to No. 63 Beach, Corentyne, Berbice. That is because this destination is of pure tranquility and serves as a natural attraction for hundreds of persons who visit almost on an everyday basis. Even foreigners who come from far and wide would take the time out to make No. 63 Beach a place they must visit. The place has a magnetic pull to it where people would visit for swimming, picnicking, jet skiing or fun in the sun with family by playing games or simply sitting on the beach and soaking up the atmosphere.

Fishing: Lucky catch at No. 63 Beach

Children at play

Many persons, particularly Berbicians, would annually make their way t o the location in their numbers for the Digicel Curried Duck Competition. The place would be transformed into an exciting destination filled with activities for children and adults. However, over time, No. 63 Beach has become very untidy simply because some people just leave their garbage on the beach and do not clean up after themselves. This has led to a build-up of refuse around the location where even the facilities are made unfit for use due to their deplorable condition. Some of the wooden benabs are also in disrepair and are badly in need of repairs. With an extensive clean-up campaign, No. 63 Beach, a

Dad and son in their go-cart

major tourist attraction, could be made attractive once again and sanitised to give it an appeal. But even in this state, people continue to visit because they cannot help themselves. It is a place worth visiting at any given time. Last Sunday, the Pepperpot Magazine visited the beach and spoke to several visitors, all of whom said they always visit the place whenever there is an event to socialise and meet new people as well as to bring out the children to ‘cut loose’. One woman related that her children like the beach because it is a wide open space they can play games and she can finally get some time to read a book while keeping an eye on them.

On the beach on their horse

Father/son cricket

BBQ on the beach

Chronicle Pepperpot November 5, 2017

Aries Although today is a day of rest for some people, you’re too busy to think about relaxing. The Moons shift into your 3rd House of Communication keeps you hopping with an endless flow of phone calls, emails and texts. Everyone seems to enjoy their interactions with you now because of your optimistic outlook and enthusiastic response. Thankfully, there’s much to be learned from this stream of casual interactions with friends. Kindness grows where kindness is sowed. Taurus Your friends might seem a bit flighty today but you want them to come back to Earth for a serious conversation about an important topic. You wish they would react with passion from the heart rather than hiding behind cool rationality. Nevertheless, other people’s intellectual idealism is so reassuring that you want to believe them. Thankfully, there’s no reason to look for stress when it’s not there. The Dalai Lama teaches, “Do not let the behaviour of others destroy your inner peace.” Gemini Focusing on one thing at a time is challenging today. You want to do everything in the present moment and cannot understand why this is impossible. Someone might try to show you the folly of your ways, but you may need to learn for yourself. In the meantime, you could thoroughly enjoy indulging every whim, even if you seem scattered to others. Nevertheless, paring back your activities just a bit allows you to experience each one more profoundly. Author Terry Tempest Williams wrote, “To slow down is to be taken into the soul of things.” Cancer Your thoughts are racing through your mind and they seem to have a life of their own. You might try to ignore them, but the more you shift your focus to other things, the louder they become. Instead of burying your ideas -- however irrelevant they may seem -- try sharing them with a friend and see where the conversation goes. You don’t need to have an agenda, just a willingness to engage in an open dialogue without any desire to lead it in any particular direction. As the Beatles sang, “Oh that magic feeling... nowhere to go.” Leo You’re less interested in what you do today than you are in planning for your future. However, you don’t feel any pressure to come up with a specific strategy; you are content to dream about all the possibilities that stretch out before you. Still, some idea might be exciting enough that you want to initiate action immediately. It’s not time to get hung up in practicalities; express your intentions however you can. Psychologist Brene Brown wrote, “What’s the greater risk? Letting go of what people think - or letting go of how I feel, what I believe, and who I am?” Virgo You may feel as if you’re in a poem by Robert Frost, standing at the divergence of two roads. You’re not sure which one will further your success, but the dualistic Gemini Moons visit to your 10th House of Status makes it difficult to eliminate either. Although you might be required to make a choice now, there is no reason to squelch the other dream. You can follow one path while keeping the other alive in your heart. Libra The walls that normally keep you on course have suddenly disappeared. The Moons move into your 9th House of Faraway places, pulls your attention away from the most pressing concerns and far into the future. Although it might seem frightening at first because there’s nothing to prevent you from making a wrong move, you have the freedom now to explore options that were previously off limits. But before you do something you regret, entertain the various possibilities in your imagination rather than in reality. You must arrive somewhere in your mind prior to finding your way there in real life. Scorpio You possess the ability to analyse your emotions with logic rather than passion today. Thankfully, this objective approach paves the way for you to tackle a complicated issue. Taking a philosophical look at those things that are the most important to you enables you to dig right to the core of your beliefs. Just remember that overconfidence doesn’t serve you well because you might forget the gravity of a situation when other people’s feelings are involved, too. Author Mason Cooley wrote, “Compassion brings us to a stop, and for a moment we rise above ourselves.” Sagittarius Your cavalier approach to a relationship may not sit well with the other person. Don’t try to avoid an in-depth discussion just because it could bring up an uncomfortable topic. If someone wants to talk things over, your job now is to create safe space for the conversation. Communication isn’t always easy, especially when there is a real and defined difference of opinions. Nevertheless, the tension will likely begin to dissipate once the door to compromise is opened. Statesman Mark Udall said, “Genuine dialogue, not rhetorical bomb-throwing, leads to progress.” Capricorn You can think of so many little ways you can improve your health today that you might feel unable to make up your mind and do any one of them. Ironically, you’re often a master of developing successful strategies, but you can’t seem to settle on even the simplest of plans now. Every new idea leads to several others, adding more branches to your tree of possibilities. Go ahead and enjoy the view as long as you remember you can’t do it all. Author Seth Godin wrote, “In a world where we have too many choices and too little time, the obvious thing to do is just ignore stuff.” Aquarius Your communication skills enable you to say exactly what you mean today, leaving little doubt in anyone’s mind about your true intentions. Thankfully, you can easily win people over to your side of an argument by ignoring convention and taking a creative approach to sharing whatever is on your mind. Don’t stop to think about someone’s reaction now because it will only introduce a seed of doubt into your thinking process. Poet Letitia Elizabeth Landon wrote, “Of all the follies that we can commit, the greatest is to hesitate.” Pisces You may do your best thinking at home today, even if you’re devising a strategy to reach your objectives at work next week. Although you’re envisioning the future, your effective planning range now can be measured in days, not weeks. You realise that the more specific you are now, the more effective you will be. Nevertheless,don’t lose sight of the bigger picture; your daily routine will only make sense once you see it in light of the greater whole. Perspective changes everything.

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Razer Debuts Cutting-Edge Mobile Gaming Phone Razer on Wednesday unveiled its Razer Phone, a handset that clearly targets gamers. It boasts the world's first 120 Hz Ultramotion display, which has the potential to deliver fast refresh rates and provide the smoothest graphics available on a mobile smartphone. "It's common knowledge that I'm obsessed with my smartphones. I play a ton of games on them, and they're my go-to for streaming content," said Razer CEO Min-Liang Tan. "We have wanted to make a phone with gaming-level tech for years, and the Razer Phone delivers in every way we imagined,"

he said. SHARP DISPLAY, CINEMATIC SOUND Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 835 mobile platform, the Razer Phone features 8 GB of RAM. Its thermal design reduces throttling to maximize the handset's power and performance. It comes loaded with Google's Android Nougat but will support Android Oreo when the new OS comes out in the spring of next year. It also comes with Nova Launcher Prime with Google Assistant integration. It is selfie-ready, with dual rear 12-MB cameras.

As gamers are its target market, the Razer Phone further offers a 5.72-inch, Quad HD IGZO LCD display, as well as a front-firing Dolby Atmos technology-powered speak-

er with dual dedicated amplifiers. It has a THX-certified USB-C adapter with a 24-bit digital audio converter for use with audiophile-grade headphones. The Razer Phone gets enough juice from its 4,000 mAh battery to last all day, while still providing crystal clear graphics and cinematic level audio, the company said. Further, it can enable Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ for rapid charging so users can get back in the action. The Razer Phone, which features the company's iconic triple-headed snake logo, is now available for pre-order at a recommended retail price of US$699.99.

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Sony's Aibo Resurrected From Robot Pet Cemetery

SO LONG, OLD YELLER Sony on Wednesday revived its robot dog, Aibo, which it put down, so to speak, in 2006. The autonomous entertainment robot brings fun and joy to the entire family, Sony claimed. Among other things, it can bond emotionally with people and give them love and affection, the company said. Aibo also lets them experience the joy of nurturing and raising a companion, according to Sony. Aibo has ultra-impact 1- and 2-axis actuators that let it move smoothly and naturally along 22 axes. The eyes have OLEDs to allow for diverse, nuanced expressions, Sony said. Aibo also shows "emotions" through tail and ear movements. EASY TO HAVE AROUND "Aibo's nice in the sense that you remove all the burdens of ownership and gain the benefits," observed Ray Wang, principal analyst at Constellation Research. "You don't have to take it out for a walk and deal with pooper scoopers; you don't have to feed it," he told TechNewsWorld. "The only thing you really have to do is charge its batteries." CUTE OR CREEPY? Aibo has an awareness of its environment, thanks to sensors that can detect and analyze sounds and images, and deep learning technology. Its eyes are fisheye cameras that use simultaneous location and mapping (SLAM) technology. It also has a front camera. Aibo has a speaker and four microphones. It can detect words of praise and smiles. Capacitive touch sensors in the head, jaw and back enable it to respond to petting and scratching, too. When given love and affection, it gives it back through AI technology that interfaces with Sony's cloud. However, "robots can only simulate the appearance of love," noted Michael Jude, research manager at Stratecast/ Frost & Sullivan. "You wouldn't expect an Aibo to throw itself in front of an oncoming car to save your life, while a real dog might," he told TechNewsWorld. Aibo can collect data from interactions with owners and collate it with data on the cloud about interactions between other Aibo devices and their owners to enhance its repository. Aibo's data periodically will be backed up in the cloud. The goal is to make it available to load onto a new Aibo in the future. Aibo communicates over LTE or 802.11b/g/n WiFi. It comes with charging pins and a SIM card slot. The battery lasts about two hours, and recharging takes three hours. GETTING AN AIBO OF YOUR OWN Aibo will be available in January from the Sony store -- but only in Japan. Its priced at about US$1,730 exclusive of tax. Purchasers will have to pay for a basic three-year subscription plan as well, at $790 up front or $26 a month. Sony also will release the My Aibo app in January. AIBO'S SHORTCOMINGS Aibo may be easy to care for, but having one may not be completely worry-free. "There are tons of privacy issues in general related to connection back to the Internet," remarked Constellation's Wang. Among them are "the subscription that's required, photos stored in the cloud, the algorithms for learning, and other information in the cloud," he said. "The vendors better have their act together." Even if robot pets like Aibo should become commonplace in the home, it's not likely that other domestic robots would follow, said Jude. "You might trust Aibo to come when called, but that doesn't necessarily extend to trusting a humanoid robot to handle a knife in the kitchen."

Robotic pets increasingly are viewed as an option to help improve quality of life for the aged and ailing. In a recent study, nursing home residents showed the strongest reactions to visits from a person with a live dog or a Paro robot harp seal, researchers at Denmark's Aarhus University found. Hasbro offers Joy for All companion pets, a line of animatronic cats and dogs that many senior living facilities offer to their residents. Though not as complex as Aibo, the much less expensive Hasbro pets are said to provide valuable benefits to patients, helping to soothe agitation and stem loneliness.

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writing career spans books, magazines and television, including working with BET Networks and writing for the New York Times, Vanity Fair, USA Today, Spin, and Vibe Magazine. He has also penned two books, his 2002 memoir, `Gunshots in My Cook-Up: Bits and Bites of a Hip-Hop Caribbean Life’ and 2004’s `To a Young Jazz Musician: Letters from the Road’. But the last five years of his life have been fully focused on screenwriting, and there, too, he has been quite successful. But perhaps his greatest achievement to date is the recent announcement by HBO that Selwyn would be the writer and Co-Executive Producer of the upcoming series `Who Fears Death’, an adaptation of Nnedi Okorafor’s dystopian Afrofuturistic novel. The most exciting thing about this project is that Selwyn will work with `Game of Thrones’, George R.R. Martin, who is one of the project’s executive producers. This is a tremendous opportunity for Selwyn, who, himself, is a huge `Game of Thrones’ fan- along with, of course, the rest of the world. On landing the project, he admitted that he was in talks with the HBO representatives for a bit before they causally revealed that Martin would be on the project. “HBO kind of snuck it up on me… [the HBO representative] said ‘I want you to read this book’ and I said ‘This is an incredible book, I would love to develop this’ … after our second meeting, she said, ‘We are going to fly you down to New Mexico so you can talk to one of the producers of the show, George RR Martin,’ and I paused and said you mean `Game of Thrones?’” Selwyn said, laughing. “So they were really casual… but it was then that I realised how big a deal it was and potentially, how big a priority it was for the network. It has been a great relationship so far with all the people on the project and we will see where we are next year this time.” He said, however, that work on the project is still in its early stages and he has a lot of work to do, including writing the pilot and pitching his vision for the first few seasons of the series. AFRO-ROOTED NARRATIVES This project will join quite a few others that Selwyn has worked on which reflect Afro-rooted narratives. Selwyn, who graduated from Princeton University with degrees in English and African-American studies, believes that these stories are extremely important to tell as they contribute to a strong sense of identity among persons of colour. “We are in a fortunate moment in Hollywood now, after a lot of blood, sweat and tears, where we are starting to see more opportunities about and by people of colour and it is an incredibly important fight because we were existing- not just in America- but across the world right now where the communities of colour, people of colour, are under nervous socio-political pressure. “It is something that we see and live here in this country under this current government all the time, and because I am an artist my form of resistance comes through my art; comes through my writing, so if I’m able to help a little black girl or boy look at a television screen and be able to identify an emotion, a narrative, an individual, a character that makes them feel like they are part of what matters in the world, then that’s the whole point,” Selwyn said. CONNECTING WITH GUYANA Given his prolific career, Selwyn is aware that his influence could be of great use to Guyanese writers back home. He admits that he has been offering some support – though informal- to Guyanese writers who he has only recently been getting acquainted with. “I haven’t done anything formal yet but I have every desire to do so. It’s a matter of what is the best forum and how I can be most useful,” he said. Selwyn says that Guyana has been good to him, and he would be glad to give any type of support he can, as this may help local writers to reach further in their careers. “Writing is a highway. It can literally take you anywhere in the world if given certain types of support or access,” he said. And of course, he wants to bring some work back home and revealed that he is also planning to shoot a film in Guyana sometime in the future. Anyone who likens their heritage unto their superpower surely must return home often, and Selwyn is no exception. Despite his busy schedule, he returns to Guyana at least once a year to regroup with a “very faithful crew” of old friends from school. “It is very important to stay connected to your home. I can’t imagine my life; my identity if it wasn’t as firmly Guyanese. There are lots of components to how I define my identity… Maintaining that connection culturally through fam and friends is extraordinarily important,” he said. Soon, the world will know Selwyn Hinds’ name- the Guyanese boy from Queen’s College who went on to write, what could be the next biggest show on HBO. And the best thing about it is that this man will take Guyana with him, every step of the way.

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‘A change of attitude helped get me here’ Athalyah Yisrael holds on to her passion go to school all the time, so two weeks of non-stop fun is what is needed during their leisure time,’’ she said. She can identify similarities between her work as a business owner and her initiative of projects. Yisrael believes in empowering children to flourish, by providing them with the opportunities to save and prosper at an early age and to foster creativity. In a new venture to encourage entrepreneurship and fostering creativity among children, Yisrael launched ‘’Smart Money Habits’’ for children in July, as part of her

By Abigail Brower WHEN she was younger, Athalyah Yisrael admits that she had developed a personality that did not impress: she had attitude, she was argumentative, aggressive, and a ‘’know it all’’. Born to an extended family in Guyana, Athalyah had issues with her career and never knew what she wanted to pursue. After writing the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations at the Saint John’s College, her parents sent her to do Law at Saint Stanislaus College, Sixth form. “Day one in class it was a lot of writing and I said Law wasn’t for me, but my parents were always supportive, so they shipped me to London,” Yisrael said in an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine. Yisrael worked as a babysitter for a private home and it was there that she found her passion. Although she never got the opportunity to further her studies in London, due to financial difficulties, Yisrael moved back to Guyana to continue studying. She attended the University of Guyana and majored in Social Work, which she believes was closest to her passion. Yisrael landed her first job in Guyana at the School of the Nations in the Administration Department, where she had her second opportunity to deal with children, but it wasn’t successful as she said, she encountered some difficulties with the school due to her attitude. “They asked me to address my attitude and I was fired,” she admitted. Her second job was at the Demerara Distiller Limited (DDL) ‘’ I was dealing with people both above me and under me, so definitely I had to work on my attitude and I also thank the principal of the school for firing me,” she said with a laugh. NEW DIRECTION As a woman whose core belongs to the business world, Athalyah Yisrael had the vision to have her own business “I believe my children should have something to look forward to, like the Kissoon’s and Sons Company,” she said. She later ventured her into owning a business. Perseverance, imagination and courage sustained her transformation, her family nurtured her independence and entrepreneurial spirit. Out of what had been a chaotic and heart-breaking experience came indeed a new business strategy for Yisrael. Her business was branded as ‘’Mobile Fun Park’’ where the fun is brought to the children as she puts it. Yisrael started her business in 2014 with a small bouncy castle. In 2015, the business expanded with a trampoline. This past summer, Mobile Fun Park has hosted a two-week fun-filled programme for children. ‘’ I believe that children

Fun Park anniversary celebrations. ‘’As an entrepreneur, I struggled with finances, I was a heavy spender and my husband always bailed me out with money issues,’’ says Yisrael. The Smart Money Habit initiative will teach children to budget at an early age. Yisrael remains mindful of her own entrepreneurial beginnings and has received great ideas from her soul sister, Kamani Yisrael, who helped fuel her business today. Turn to page XXXVII ►►►

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Just as she had her family’s support from her childhood to her earliest career, to her business ventures today, Yisrael aims to provide encouragement and inspiration for even adults who wish to become entrepreneurs. But, she, says, the ultimate reward for an entrepreneur is individual and personal. “ ‘I aspire to Inspire before I expire’ is a profound quote by Eugene Bell Jr.,” says Yisrael, as she reflects on her journey to the point in her life. “We are not just here to live out our life until our time comes to leave earth. We all have a purpose here, so why not aspire to inspire before you expire?’’ Whether it is social function, seminar, workshops or fundraiser, Yisrael has left her mark on many of the children in Guyana. “I think I was born to be a mentor and an inspiration to many. Since opening her company, which has now changed to Fun Park Rentals, the event guru has been an integral part of developing special events across Guyana where she has rubbed shoulders with families and children from different communities. These events include fun days and smart money minds workshops.

Motivated by her desire to challenge and inspire, Yisrael also serves on the board as a toastmaster at the Cacique Toast Masters Club and act as a mentor for children. She believes that it is an opportunity to teach young people to save and prosper she says, adding that today’s youth need to see that saving can make an impact in society and it is acknowledged and celebrated. If it’s an event organised by Yisrael, chances are it will run on time and without a glitch and even if the unexpected does occur, one wouldn’t know it behind her quick thinking and attention to detail -all the while flashing her trademark smile. “It’s about giving 110 percent more than expected,’’ says Yisrael. “There will always be unforeseen happenings, but never let them see you sweat. I’ve seen it all so there’s nothing that I can’t handle. My work is not really work, it’s fun, it’s my passion,” she said. Yisrael believes that as a growing company she’s hoping that the government and private sector will collaborate with her company to work with children in schools to impact their lives, set goals and create a vision for them at an early age. For anyone who wants to brave the world of entrepreneurship, Yisrael shares some crucial points she learned on her journey in the business world: “Everyone who has an idea or passion to venture off into entrepreneurship should go for it! Often, I meet people who say, oh I had an idea 10 years ago but it’s in the market now. Also, it is not an invention when it goes public, it is a product. You should detach yourself from the idea when it takes the form,” she said.

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English THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

If we do not find anything pleasant, at least we shall find something new. VOLTAIRE (1694-1778), Candide (1759), ch.17 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Plan where you are going. Use these plan types: long-term plans and objectives to qualify as something let’s say in four years; medium-term to achieve the first stage of study in one year, and short-term to stick to your weekly time-table with periods over this academic year. Also, set study session objectives to complete and understand specific learning tasks to examination standard, within a time-frame. Right now, focus on your short-term and study session objectives. Be wise. Love you GRAMMAR a. Capitalisation ☻ Capitalise words donating family relationship only when they are used as a person’s name or as a part of it. Is Grandma coming for Easter, Mother? Your grandmother is Mimi’s aunt, isn’t she? ☻ Capitalise the official names of governmental bodies, offices, and officers. In referring to the President of Guyana, always capitalise President, even if no specific person is named. Capitalise the names of other officers when used in place of the names of specific individuals. Geranium works in the Office of the Presidency. She was an outstanding county judge. No, Judge, I have never been a politician. ☻ Capitalise points of the compass when they refer to definite geographical

parts of the country or of the world, but do not capitalise them when they are used merely to indicate direction. I should like to visit the Far East someday. Shadow lives seven miles east of the capital city. Something to Do Supply capital letters where they are needed. 1. The cape of good hope received its name from king john of portugal. 2. Manufacturing developed in the coastal region faster than in the south. 3. The president of the united states chooses the members of his cabinet. 4. Sam’s father is a worker in the republican party. 5. The jerkins family, like hundreds of thousands of other young farm couples, cannot afford to buy a farm. 6. First came the old south – also known as the deep south – where the plantation system had its beginnings. 7. The bengal police authorities, who had failed to solve forty murders that year, seized the first suspect that they could find. 8. The secretary of the mental hygiene society reported that there was an alarming increase in the number of neurotics. 9. This address should read street instead of avenue. B. Use good/ well and bad/ badly correctly It can be a little confusing sometimes – how do you use good or well; bad or badly? It’s easy once you know how. Understand the difference between the two words – good and bad. “Good” and “bad” are adjectives. They precede nouns and follow linking verbs. Adjectives simply describe nouns. It is bad (adj.) luck (noun) to walk under a ladder. Simone had a good (adj.) look (noun) at the terrorist. Understand the difference between the two words – well and badly. “Well” and “badly” are adverbs. Adverbs are the descriptive words that describe action verbs or adjectives. The new next door neighbour who used to live on a government reserve is behaving (verb) badly (adv.) again. Joy did (verb) really well (adv.) in her tryouts this year. “Well” can also be used as an adjective to mean “in good health.” After three months little Hazelene began to look well (adj.) again. Something to Do Complete each sentence by adding good, well; bad, badly. 1. We have recently been told that margarine may be as ----- as cholesterol-laden butter. 2. Eating a plate of unbuttered toast is not ----- for you either. 3. I wanted to play music like them so -----. 4. Packaged food saturated with fat or salt can make you feel -----. 5. You can’t very ----- say no to such ----- treatment. 6. Nutritionists debate whether people should take vitamin supplements or simply eat -----. 7. The final game was going ----- for the home team. 8. Black-throated thrushes and robin accentors spend their winters here as -----. 9. The return trip was just as ----- as the long trip to Huxton Smith’s agricultural machinery museum. 10. Excuse my young nephew for not speaking Spanish very -----. 11. The rash was itching ----- and really swelling up. 12. Many questions remain, however, and more research is ----- needed. C. Some Faults with Nouns and Pronouns 1. Avoid the double subject. Right: The weather was hot yesterday. Wrong: The weather it was hot yesterday. 2. Avoid using a singular noun measurement or amount where a plural form is needed. We swam is ten feet of water (not foot) of water. This field produced only twenty gallons of fruit (not gallon) per acre. 3. Avoid using redundant (unnecessary) pronouns. Right: These two are alike. Wrong: These two are both alike. 4. In compounds, put second person before first and third, and third before first. To do so is a matter of courtesy. (An exception is a case in which the speaker wishes to take the primary blame for something: “I and she are the guilty ones.”) You, he, and I must go. He and I are partners. Something to Do Search for and find errors like the above ones in past compositions and correct them. Explain each premise to a study partner.

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Bollywood news

Kabir Khan: Even if my films are set in the past, they are relevant today Kabir Khan, who is making a film on the 1983 cricket World Cup, with Ranveer Singh, believes that if it wasn't for that iconic victory, the sport wouldn't be as massive in the country as it is. He says, "Even if my films are set in the past, no matter what genre, they are all relevant today. This film is about how 1983 WC made cricket what it is in India, today; because if it wasn't for that win, there would be no IPL in India." Speaking about his love for the game, Kabir adds, "I won't call myself a cricket buff or a fanatic but who doesn't watch cricket in India? I always enjoyed playing more than watching."

Irrfan gets ready for a rare romantic outing to release on November 10, I'm a nervous wreck. So, why does one make movies, you ask? Exactly for this crazy, unpredictable roller-coaster ride."

Considering the fact that Irrfan is known for powerhouse performances in deep and intense roles, his upcoming romantic outing — Tanuja Chandra's 'Qarib Qarib Singlle' — has generated a lot of buzz among cinegoers. The movie, which also marks South actress Parvathy's Bollywood debut, revolves around the quirky journey of the lead pair, Yogi and Jaya, who meet on an online dating website. While the soundtrack

offers an insight into their frictional relationship, the picturesque locations form a beautiful backdrop. Director Tanuja Chandra says, "When my co-writer Gazal and I were working on the script of the film, I didn't think we would reach even the production stage. Then, while shooting in Rajasthan and Gangtok, I wondered, 'Will we ever edit?' On the editing table, I felt that the film might never see the light of the day. But now that it's set

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Entertainment

Stranger Things' Dacre Montgomery Goes Shirtless in Must-See Audition Tape the Wolf." Pulling off this creative feat was not without worry, of course. The star had some fears that "either I'm never going to work again, or somebody somewhere is going to see one thing in me, and they'll give me a chance." However, his bets paid off and the actor sure did make a splash with the Duffer Brothers—along with the Netflix board. The famous duo told him that "it caused a bit of

a stir at Netflix" when it was played during a board meeting. While the now infamous G-string dance sequence is not shown in the video, the creative star can be seen nailing scenes from the show as well as a scene from Rob Reiner's 1986 film Stand By Me. Worry not, you can still catch a glimpse of the shirtless Aussie dancing—just no G-string—in the video above.

Katahar curry Move over Steve Harrington! There's a new bad boy for girls to pine over. Viewers of Netflix's Stranger Things 2 have some fresh eye candy to feast on thanks to Billy's (Dacre Montgomery) character arrival into the alien infested town of Hawkins, Indiana. However, even before his debut on the hit show, this Aussie was making waves on the Internet with rumors of a fun, yet slightly raunchy, audition tape. Eager to please his newfound fans, the

star shared the video with GQ and opened up about how his audition tape got the attention of the Duffer Brothers. The star said that after finding out about the opportunity to work with the famous duo, he excitedly began planning his audition tape. He knew that the creators would be viewing hundreds of tapes and "wanted to make a bit of a splash with the Duffers." So, he dusted off the old G-string and filmed himself dancing to classic 80's songs like, "Come on Eileen," and "Hungry Like

Kim Kardashian Apologizes for Controversial Aaliyah Halloween Costume Kim Kardashian didn't mean to rock the boat with her Halloween costume. While celebrating the spooky holiday earlier this week, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star received attention for her portrayals of Cher and Madonna. Her decision to dress up as Aaliyah, however, received the most reviews from fans and followers. In a new post on her website, the businesswoman explained her intention behind the costume. She also apologized if it hurt anyone's feelings. "Aaliyah was such an amazing singer and she will forever be a music legend," Kim wrote

to her fans. "I saw online that some people thought my costume was in poor taste and I am truly sorry if that offended anyone. When I was creating the costume, I wasn't dressing up as a race or culture but rather as a woman whom I will always admire." She continued, "I play every kind of genre of music in my home and I like for my kids to be exposed to many different artists. For me, it's always about love and respect. I loved that Kourtney was Michael Jackson for one of her costumes, and that my son was Axl Rose. We don't see color in my home. We were paying homage to people and artists we love and respect— it's that simple!"

Ingredients 2 medium katahar cleaned milk extracted from 1 grated dried coconut 1 teaspoon ground turmeric(dye) 3 tablespoons garam masala 3 tablespoon ground jeera 2 whole cloves 1 inch piece cinnamon 1 large tomato,chopped 1 large onion, chopped 5 flakes garlic, chopped 2 wiri wiri pepper(any pepper of your choice) 1 tablespoon oil Salt to taste. Instructions Wash the already cleaned katahar thoroughly in a colander.Drain. 2. Heat the oil in a karahi/deep pot. 3. Add the cinnamon and cloves. 4. Add the drained katahar and stir until coated with oil.Reduce flame to slow. 5. Add salt and stir. 6 .Add the turmeric, stir until all the katahar is coated.Fry for 1 minute. 7. Add the garam masala, stir again and fry for 1 minute. 8. Add the jeera,stir for 1 minute. 9. Add the coconut milk, stir. The milk should cover the katahar. 9. Turn up the flame until it starts to boil then reduce it back to medium. 10.Add the chopped tomato. 11.Cover the pot and allow to cook until all the seeds are cooked.