Contents Usain Bolt runs 9.82 and sounds warning ahead of Olympics p.9 Less talk and more actionp.3 Movie review: Think Like A Man
p.4
TifMel: From makeup artist to designer p.6
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Hand-crafted Mother’s Day cards p.12 Facial care for guys p.14 K-Rome: Planning his takeover p.15
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From the Editor
Child’s Month: Less talk and more action M
ay is celebrated as Child’s Month every year and recently, many local social organisations have been bringing even greater attention to the plight of Jamaica’s children. They have called on the government and ordinary citizens alike to intervene and protect them from abuse. In Jamaica, a child is defined as a person under the age of 18. It was recently reported in the news that a 12-year-old is now pregnant and her mother, stepfather and a 20-year-old family friend are now in custody. Apparently, the mother allowed the friend to have sexual intercourse with her child, while providing contraceptives. How disgusting! Sadly, this 12-year-old is not alone; neither is she the youngest victim of such schemes. The truth is, if parents are unfit to take care of the their children, then it is clearly time for the government to intervene and provide a safe place for these kids to live out their childhood. Then again, many are hesitant because we can all recall the Armadale incident that claimed the lives of seven girls in May 2009 at a government-operated home. Are there no safe havens for our children?
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It is time that we move beyond simply bringing attention to these issues, but putting practical steps in place that will eliminate them. Our children should not continue to suffer while all we do is talk. Action is what is needed on the part of government and every citizen in this country who has a responsibility to protect our children. Happy Teachers’ Day
Tomorrow is teachers’ day! If you are able to read this eZine, then you should be thanking the teachers who have been a part of your life since you started school. Teachers play an important role in the growth and development of Jamaica’s children and it is imperative that we celebrate their sacrifice, time, patience and commitment to ensuring that children are equipped with the tools they need to successfully navigate the world. To teachers everywhere, we salute you! Have a productive day, Keresa
Teen Spirit
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Entertainment
Movie Review by Alana Gardner
THINK LIKE A MAN
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PG
ey guys! For many of you, school is still in session but sadly for me, end of year exams have started. In fact, my first exam is in two days. Yikes! But as you probably guessed, I’m not the type of girl to let that stop me from fueling my movie addiction, so this week I went to see Think Like A Man. Twice! Now, as I bow my head in mock shame, what immediately attracted me to this movie was the general idea of the film.
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Think Like A Man is a movie about what happens when a group of women who are having difficulties in the game of love, start reading bestselling author and comedian Steve Harvey’s book, Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man. Now I don’t know about you girls, but this movie was purely for research. Who knew the movie could actually offer some real-world advice? Maybe I need to visit the bookstore and buy myself a copy of the bestseller and as it would turn out, I was right. Teen Spirit
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Scenes from the movie Think Like A Man
The movie offers some real insight into the mindset of a man and I will definitely be getting the book. Look out men, I’m coming for you! But seriously, this movie wasn’t your average romantic comedy. Although I was laughing every two seconds, it really showed me one thing: don’t hate the player, change the game. Which, in other words, means that ladies need to stop thinking that a guy will just change his ways. He’s been like that since the turn of the century and if you want to get what you want, you will have to do something about it and not expect it to happen overnight, just because you walked into his life. It. Doesn’t. Work. That. Way. Now guys, that shouldn’t suggest that this movie is for girls alone, you too could take some lessons from it. I’m not telling you to buy the book - that’s for us, but I promise you, male or female, if you watch this movie and don’t learn anything at all when it comes to the opposite sex and yourself in the game of love, you’ll be spending the rest of your lives possibly alone. Just saying! Think Like A Man is a romantic-comedy from Screen Gems Studios and directed by Tim Story, earning itself full five stars. Starring Michael Ealy, Jerry Ferrara , Meagan Good, Regina Hall, Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Henson, Terrence J, Jenifer Lewis, Romany Malco,Gary Owen, Gabrielle Union and Chris Brown. www.ezineslimited.com
Teen Spirit
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Fashion
Ties around the back and waist; completely backless. Pair with jeans or leggings
Simple and sexy tube cotton dress with detailing at front
TifMel: From Makeup Artist to designer by Kandice Moncrieffe
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wenty-one-year-old registered makeup artist Tiffany Gray, also known as TifMel, started designing and making items when she got her sewing machine only last year. Because of her undying love for fashion, she decided to focus on trendy outfits. A student at the University of the West Indies, TifMel is studying entertainment and cultural enterprise management. Her pieces caught our eye, but we really wanted to know who were the hands behind these chic outfits, so we caught up with the young designer to get the scoop. How did you get started in fashion designing? I got a sewing machine for my 20th birthday, which was last year August. I always loved cutting up my clothes and transforming them. I started making pillows and small bags and then decided
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Tiffany Gray
I wanted to do clothes. Did you actually go to school to learn how to sew and design? No, I didn’t. I’m self-taught. I keep learning everyday. And I know a lot of people that sew and always giving good advice. How do you manage being an entrepreneur and a student? It is very, very hard! Trust me, sometimes I’m swamped with so many orders and I have so much school work to do. I try my best to manage both the best I can. Thankfully though, this is my last semester at the UWI.
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Fashion
Simple zebra print crop top and a bright pink waist skirt
A cute navy blue high waist skirt made from knits with unique gold detailing This looks like a swimsuit but it’s a top worn with high skirts or pants. Can be worn with a jacket
Where do you get your inspiration from for each piece? This may sound funny and strange, but I dream a lot. And a lot of times, something comes to me in my dreams and I start thinking I can do this and do that and then I’m inspired to wake up early the next morning and try it. What’s the most extravagant piece you’ve created? Well my clothes are not ‘extravagant’; they are simple, cute and trendy. I like to make clothes that are wearable on an everyday basis. www.ezineslimited.com
What would you say are your most purchased pieces? Crop tops and skirts! I have made countless. As a fashion designer, what would you say teen trends are currently? Sheer tops, crop tops, high waist skirts and shorts and bright colours! Where do you see TifMel in the future? I see TifMel as a trendy, affordable place for young women to shop, with outlets all over the globe. Teen Spirit
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Advertorial
Get ready for Cyah Fail CSEC and
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CAPE marathon series at UWI
cademic Journies will be hosting our fourth annual Cyah Fail CSEC and CAPE revision marathons leading up to examinations. The event will be held on May 12 and 13 and is sponsored by the Office of Social Entrepreneurship and the Department of Management Studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI). Each subject costs $3,300 and classes will be held in the Management Studies lecture rooms. Cyah Fail CSEC Marathon began in 2009 with 15 students, all of whom attended the eight-hour power marathons at the UWI. All students received grade one passes, inclusive of one attendee who received the second highest grade in the island in CSEC for 2009. In 2010, we repeated the process with 15 students, all of whom also received grade one passes.
To participate, register online at www.academicjournies. com by Thursday of this week. What people have to say about Cyah Fail: “I received second place in CSEC mathematics in 2009. This definitely came as a result of attending this workshop, as I needed individual attention to cover certain areas on the syllabus in depth to ensure that I would score a perfect grade in each section. Obviously, you are not going to learn everything in a day or two, but leading up to the examination, the Cyah Fail team is more than willing to help in your studies, and even after your exams.” - Shaquille Laing
This year, we want to help you.
“I think that this company is really helpful, and the persons who are in charge of it are really resourceful and thoughtful... bearing in mind the need for young people to elevate themselves beyond what they think they are capable of, and what people limit them to. Thanks to this company, I am on my way to getting my one in math and English.” - Whitney Blackwood
CAPE Schedule for this weekend Biology - Saturday May 12 Economics - Saturday May 12
You can visit our Facebook page to access our free CSEC quiz bank.
In 2011, we assisted some 140 students, 92 per cent of whom received grade one passes
CSEC Schedule for this weekend Mathematics - Saturday May 12 English Language - Sunday May 13 Biology - Sunday May 13
For more information, email info@academicjournies.com, or call 482-0148/ 878-4552. Also follow us on Twitter at @csectutor
Cover Story
Usain Bolt
Fastest man in history runs 9.82 and sounds warning ahead of Olympics
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hen world and Olympic 100m and 200m champion Usain Bolt walked onto the track at the Jamaica National International Invitational on Saturday night to line up for the 100m race, video cameras immediately came out and the crowd was in a frenzy. It was as if they had anticipated that the fastest man in history was about to do something big. After enduring two false starts by his competitors, Bolt powered out of the blocks in his first individual race for the season. He crossed the finish line metres ahead of second place Michael Frater (10.00) and Lerone Clarke (10.03), in an amazing 9.82 seconds. It’s obvious Usain St Leo Bolt has sent a strong signal to other athletes, less than 100 days before the London Olympics, where he will defend his titles. www.ezineslimited.com
Usain Bolt at the Beijing Olympics in 2008
“Felt good out there. It’s a good look,” he tweeted shortly after the race. Indeed, it was a good look as the man hailed as the ‘lightning Bolt’ put on a show for his home fans. For some, 9.82 might not seem like a fast time, considering the fact that Bolt’s personal best is the 9.58 he set in Berlin at the World Championships in 2009. Note however, that this is the start of the season. Not every athlete is able to run such fast times so soon. But, fast times are what we’ve come to expect from Bolt. He has consistently opened his season with sub 9.90 times and if history is any indication, we might see some really fast times leading up to Olympics. In fact, this is Bolt’s quickest season opener since he started running the 100m.
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With training partner Yohan Blake continuously making improvements, Bolt will not only have to train hard but remain focused if he intends to defend his Olympic titles. Blake, affectionately called ‘The Beast’, is the reigning world 100m champion, and despite the fact that Bolt was disqualified from that race, Blake has proven that he is a worthy competitor. The Americans too are setting their sights on once again claiming the top spot in the 100m event. After dominating for years, the last time an American won the 100m at either the World Championships or Olympics was in 2007 when Tyson Gay won ahead of Asafa Powell in Osaka, Japan. That’s five years ago, and they’ve been plotting ever since to once again hear their national anthem played for that event. But if Bolt has anything to do about it, they will have to lick their wounds once more because he is determined to defend both his 100m and 200m titles. His fast time over the weekend is strong evidence that he is not playing around.
sain St U s u io v b o ’s “It sent Leo Bolt hasnal to a strong sig tes, less other athles before than 100 day lympics, the London Ol defend where he wil his titles.”
Despite the fact that the season has really just started, Bolt’s time is now the fastest for the year, after erasing the 9.90 ran by Blake a few weeks ago. Bolt, though unhappy with his execution, is clearly in good shape and is expected to get progressively better as he continues to train. Before he heads to London though, the Trelawny native will have to make the Jamaican team when national trials come around at the end of June. But, who has any doubts that Bolt will make the team? Bolt’s next race is scheduled for May 24 in Ostrava.
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Teen Spirit
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Gifts
Hand-crafted Mother’s Day cards
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atoya Campbell is an artiste who decided to use her talents to create gifts for her mother. Now, she is sharing that creativity with others and offers hand-painted Mother’s Day cards to everyone who wants them. She tells Teen Spirit how she got started.
I love working with acrylic and water colour paints and try to make each piece unique. Each card costs $400 and is fully customisable, in that you can choose your design and tell me exactly what you want written on it. They are wonderful keepsakes that can even be framed after.
“I’ve always had a passion for art along with a love for making cards. For as long as I can remember, my parents always look forward to their hand-painted cards on every special occasion. That unwritten tradition has stuck with me throughout the years and last year, after showing a design to a friend of mine, she insisted that I make a Facebook page and paint more. The idea that I could share my art this way with others in celebration of such a special occasion as Mother’s Day was my driving force and I decided to go for it. The response was wonderful!
This year, my inspiration was from a recent experience I had. I was motivated to paint and could not help but draw inspiration from the breathtaking natural surroundings that I was living in at the time. The best source of all though was from my mommy, who was eager to share her thoughts on what she would love on a card, from the colours that would brighten her eyes to the designs that appeal to her personality.”
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For more details, visit Latoya’s Facebook page or e-mail: latoya.gail@live.com Teen Spirit
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Hygiene
Facial care for guys by Justine Powell
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uys, are you tired of seeing so many articles speaking about facial care for women? Well I am, so I’ve decided to twist things a bit after realising that many guys put no effort into maintaining their image, face-wise. Below are some tips and tricks that you can adapt to practice good grooming habits. Since you men do not wear makeup (or so I hope), facial care is a simple procedure that should be practiced by all. Things you’ll need: razor, shaving cream, soap/cleanser, a skilled barber, lip balm. Soap/cleanser Every human being should own a cleanser or soap and men are no exception. Most men prefer bar soaps to liquid cleansers. That’s fine, as long as you own one. But bear in mind that bar soaps cause dry skin more than liquid cleansers and usually have more bacteria on the surface, since they are exposed to germs in the air. If you have oily skin, you may also have problems with acne. To reduce this problem, use soaps or cleansers that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzyl peroxide. For example, Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, approximately $1000 and Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, approximately $900. Facial hair Shaving is another story. Excessive facial hair can be a bit scary. Here are some quick, easy steps to avoid the ape look: 1. Cleanse your face with warm water. This will open pores as well as soften the beard. It is best to shave during or immediately after your shower. 2. Apply shave cream or gel to your face and neck. Use your fingers and a lot of warm water to lather.
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3. Always shave in the direction that the hair grows, as doing otherwise may result in ingrown hairs and razor burn. Shave tough areas such as your chin and neck last, since this gives the gel or cream more time to soften those areas. Always use sharp blades and remember to rinse the razor blade often with warm water. 4. To delay that 5 o’clock shadow: Re-lather and shave in the opposite direction that the hair grows. 5. Rinse your face with cool water to help close the pores. 6. Lastly and most importantly, apply an alcohol- and fragrance-free moisturising after-shave balm, gel or lotion. This nourishes and regenerates the skin. Barber Many of you have decided for some reason or another that you will make very infrequent visits to the barber. For the love of mankind, do not sport the homeless look. With very reasonable price ranges, there is really no excuse for not visiting the barbershop regularly. Nowadays, I have noticed men who are growing their afros but still making efforts to maintain their line-up. Thumbs up for the effort. Please note: Mohawks are not for everyone! Get a second opinion if you have decided to sport this look. And then there are those who are still sporting the fancy designs in their headtops – it’s a bit outdated. Hair washing Wash your hair every day. Lips Dry, chapped lips are not cute on anyone! Please invest in a lip balm to seal moisture in your lips and minimise their exposure to the elements. Teen Spirit
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Entertainment
K-Rome:
Planning his takeover by Ava Gardner
After winning the Sashga Production’s Artiste Elevation competition last November, aspiring artiste Kirk Johnson, stage name K-Rome won’t stop there. The 26-year-old seeks to further expose his talents and strengthen his position in the music industry and tells Teen Spirit all about it.
TS: When did you start making music?
KR: I always loved deejaying and singing music during school. However, I really started being serious in 2001. My music originated with the group called Tug Angels, along with the artiste named, Nickoy ‘Steam’ Howell.
K-Rome
well-balanced. TS: How does it feel to be well received by your city, Portmore?
TS: How would you classify your music?
KR: My genre of music is both dancehall and reggae. TS: Why did you enter the Artiste Elevation competition?
KR: It feels wonderful. This is just a first step in my complete journey. As the days go by, I hope to achieve so much more. I feel great overall to reach a next level of my mission.
KR: I saw my entry into the competition as an opportunity to further expose my talents. I also wanted to gain more experience and push my music to higher heights. It was a friend of mine, from my community, Billy Blacks, who first showed me the elimination show flyer. Then I figured nothing could beat a try but a fail and went for it.
TS: At age 26, do you feel there’s now pressure to succeed as an artiste?
TS: What was it like to win the competition last year?
TS: After winning the competition, what plans do you now have for your music?
KR: I have no words to explain it. I feel really good still. Even now I’m very excited.
KR: I’m looking to conclude the rest of my mission. From you see K-Rome, you see music; even when I’m doing something else. I’m looking to work hard and keep toiling consistently on the road, no matter the obstacles that may come my way. I want to keep making my name. I’m looking towards a brighter and glorious ending for my career with the help of the Most High.
TS: How do you think your music differs from the competition’s preceding winner, Ishentikal?
KR: Ishentikal’s music and mine differ in many ways. We have two different styles of singing and deejaying. He would do lots of comical tunes while I sometimes concentrate on social commentaries. TS: What was it first like to hear your song I Swear played on the radio?
KR: It was like a dream come through. I saw it as one of my missions accomplished. My real mission is to take my music to the world internationally. As I heard my song on the radio, I felt www.ezineslimited.com
KR: Yes, but there will always be pressure, no matter what stage of your career you’re in. You just have to go for your targets and aim for the sky. Your goals are achievable as long as you put in the work.
TS: What words of wisdom do you have for teens and young adolescents wanting to be artistes?
KR: First and foremost, school is very important. Try to take in as much as possible. You can’t just get up and be an artiste, just like that. You have to learn and read much in order to impart something good in your music. Secondly, you have to have much determination and you need to be persistent to achieve your goals. So just take in your schoolwork and study hard. Teen Spirit
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