First Lady
in nostalgia ► Page XI
First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger
- as she reflects on President’s inauguration
Fidal Bassier Woman with EIGHT FOOT waist says:
‘Men don’t fancy skinny girls’
► Page XXIV
Mikel Ruffinelli with husband Reggie Brooks
South Africa Lion Park death:
Game of Thrones editor savaged to death
- one of Guyana’s most admired photographers ► Page XL
► Page XXIX
- she had wound her window down for a closer look at the beast before it pounced and mauled her
JIVONSKI Hearing THORNE -impaired A musical tidal wave set to engulf universally
► Page XXII
► Page XVI
no impediment to Ryiad Sattaur
...passion for sports unimaginable
Produced and Edited by Mark Ramotar | Graphic and Layout Design by Rondel James
My Father’s Bride
II
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
By Maureen Rampertab “SUCH a long time, it has been,” Arvin mused as the plane started its descent. He could see the thick, green vegetation and winding rivers from above and he sighed deeply, a familiar feeling knotted in his stomach. “Home again, has anything changed?” He had left home ten years ago, as an eighteen-year-old after his mother and father’s marriage had crashed, hitting rock bottom. The bitter divorce, the enmity and emotional conflicts, his young mind had borne to a point where he couldn’t take any more of it and he had joined the army so he could be far away from home. It was that same feeling of anxiety inside of him now since that day when he had packed his bags and left home, his mother in tears and his father’s displeased expression. But all he wanted was some peace, somewhere far, so he could not see her sadness nor hear his fat h e r ’s a n g r y voice and an unending story of who was right and who was wrong. It had been a hard decision to make but he had left his mother in the good hands of his elder brother and sister who were emotionally stronger. In the army camps deep in the country he would hear nothing about their broken marriage for everyone there would be strangers. He was young, but tall with a good physique and through the rigorous training, he kept his mind focused on one thing, to become a good soldier. He had written one letter per week to his mother, detailing his life as a soldier and how good the training and the duties he executed were for him, so she wouldn’t worry. His father, he did not hear much from, but often he had thought of him, a man with a strong character but whose infidelity broke a family and scarred a beautiful life.
“Such a shame,” Arvin thought as he cleared his bags at the immigration counter, “A broken home that caused the separation of a family.” Looking back at his life, as one of the top graduates from a prestigious high school he had a high level of intelligence and it had opened doors for him to advance his studies abroad that he knew would help him to gain elevation up the ranks. It had been a raw and rewarding experience for a young man, who had never done arduous tasks in his life and who had set for himself, different and bigger goals. At the beginning of his training, many nights he had laid sleepless in bed wondering, “What am I doing here? None of my friends are here with me. What happened to my life?” Regrets had plagued his mind but it had given him a stronger resolve and that helped him to help others deal with trauma in their lives. To d a y h e had become a man with steel strength and dignified character, a personality that could be sauve, casual or serious. Today he was returning home to his mother and father, who were now living separate lives. She cried the same way, she had cried that day when he had left home but this time the tears were for joy. “I’m sorry,” she said, as she hugged him, “that our problems caused you to leave home.” “Maybe it was meant to happen that way,” he comforted her. She nodded, still tearful, “You’re right I guess and I’m so proud of you.” She did not speak of his father and he did not ask, so as not to open old wounds. He would speak to him in his own time as he spent the next few days reuniting with family and friends. So much had changed, many of his friends had gotten married and old girlfriends, he could find
maureen.rampertab@gmail.com
A story of a family’s separation and a forbidden love
none. “I guess we’ll have to find you a girlfriend,” his old high school buddy from the chess club who had been so shy said with confidence. “No man, I’m cool.” Arvin said, amused, “Since when you’ve become so brave with girls?” He had dated girls, yes on his work related travels to Central and South American countries and during his studies in England. But though, they were all beautiful and intelligent, he did not find that special interest that would tell him she’s the one to spend his life with. He couldn’t tell and he dared not to dream for he knew how well dreams could be shattered. From a young boy he had lived through the episodes of a love story of the two people closest to him that had cracked until the day, it fell to pieces. “My dad, my hero, where did that go?” he often wondered with disappointment. A smart, astute businessman, his father was, a man with a strong personality but his arrogance and selfishness denied his family real love and understanding. His life, his time were his own, no question asked. Arvin hadn’t heard much from him, those ten years, he was away and he wondered if he had ► Continued on page III
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
My Father’s Bride ► From page II
changed. His mother had not spoken a word of him, but his sister told him their father had remarried and when he questioned to whom, she had replied, candidly: “Not anyone interesting really. You’ll see her when you visit him.” For thepast two days that Arvin tried to reach his father, he was always busy so he spend time with friends who decided Gravity was the club to be on Saturday night. Arvin had no reason to doubt that, the entertainment was electrifying and pulsating and of course the beautiful girls. The party was in full swing just after midnight, when three most beautiful women walked in. Two of them were divas, provocatively
her table and demanded, “Hey, let’s dance.” The smile faded from her face and Arvin said to the man calmly, “Hey, I’m talking to the lady.” “Not anymore.” He said in an aggressive manner and made a move to hold her hand but before he could Arvin put a strong, restraining hand on his shoulder and said quietly with a dead serious look on his face, “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” The man looked at him and asked angrily, “Who the hell are you to stop me?” Arvin didn’t answer for a brief moment then said in a low tone, a steel edge in his voice, “A soldier.”
dressed, but the one who caught his attention wore a little black dress, simple yet classy. They were alone for a while as the waiter served drinks and he watched her, an admiring look in his eyes. Liking the way she laughed, the light reflecting off her reddish, gold hair and just as he decided to ask her to dance, three guys with untamed good looks walked up to their table. “Damn.” He murmured and turned back to the bar. “Slow.” His friends teased him and he shook his head, undeterred, ordering another drink. He turned back a few moments later and saw she was still sitting there, her friends on the dance floor. He did not hesitate a second time and approached her in his usual cool and casual manner. “Hey, would you like to dance?” She looked at him and smiled a little, “Not right now.” “Can I buy you a drink then?” “No,” she said softly, still with a pleasant smile. He noticed no wedding band on her finger, so no problem there and he tried again, “Can I talk with you for a moment?” Before she could answer, another guy, this one, intoxicated came up to
The man seemed to sober up a little, backed off slowly and she looked at Arvin, a glint of interest in her eyes. “A soldier?” He nodded and sat down, his expression relaxed, “I guess I’ll just have to sit here and be your bodyguard until your friends return.” She laughed a little and finished her drink. He ordered another for her and a few drinks later, she was ready to dance. It was where they spent the rest of the night, on the dance floor, until it was time for her to leave. She was a wonderful dancer, not erotic, just beautiful like a butterfly in his arms and when he went to sleep that morning, it was like she was still there in his arms, until he awoke much later in the day. He laid awake for a long moment, thinking of her and he said quietly, “She’s so beautiful, I wonder if I’ll see her again?” She had left without telling him her name, nor a number and for the first time in his life, he felt a deep interest. Something beautiful had entered his life. He spent the afternoon with his mother, his brother, his sister and a few other relatives, he hadn’t seen in
III
a long time. Tonight he was having dinner with his father and Arvin felt a little pensive wondering what it would be like seeing him after all that time. “He looks younger and fitter” his brother told him. “Well he has to,” his mother said scornfully, speaking of his father for the first time, “Given the circumstances.” “What circumstances?” Arvin asked, curiously. “The woman he got married to,” she answered with vehemence, “She’s a witch.” That statement provoked much laughter and Arvin shookhis head, resignedly, “Lord, this animosity doesn’t have an end.” His father now lived in a smaller but beautifully designed house in
Arvin broke the tense silence. “It’s good to see you again…. Dad.” His father nodded and pouring himself a shot of whiskey, he lifted the glass and said to Arvin, “It’s been a long time, son.” He finished the drink and walked towards him, he held him by the shoulders and said, his voice, little unsteady, “You have grown into a man, I’m proud of you.” He embraced him for a brief moment then said, “Come, I want to introduce you to someone.” He walked out the study and Arvin, his emotions a bit shaken, took a little while to compose himself before following him. He was standing in the middle of the living room, looking up the stairs but Arvin did not turn to look until his father
an upscale area and Arvin rang the doorbell, a little nervous knot in his stomach. “Be strong, man.” He cautioned himself, “You’re a soldier.” The housekeeper opened the door and he was escorted to the study where his father, a tall man with broad shoulders, stood looking out the bay window. He turned as Arvin entered and both men, father and son stood looking at each other, neither saying a word until
said, “Here she is, my new bride.” He turned around and looked at the woman as she came down the stairs, beautiful in a royal blue semi-flare dress, a woman of simple sophistication but the shock Arvin felt on seeing her left him at a loss for words. His father’s bride was the young woman he had been dancing with last night. To be continued…
IV
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
THE ENVIRONMENT TALKING BACK IN 2010, during an Arts and the Environment Conference staged in Guyana, I shared two poems – ‘Kona’ruk Requiem’ and ‘The Chastening of Iwokrama’. The first focused on the destruction of the Konawaruk River due to irresponsible mining in that area and the second focused on conservation and sustainable development in all walks of life. As we celebrate another World Environment Day, I would like to share both poems but unfortunately I am still trying to retrieve the second poem which placed third in a national poetry competition to mark World Environment Day 1994. Kona’ruk’s Requiem riva dry fish die nuffnuff fly seh, dis no lie;riva run dry gole is why manaintca’e whogoh pay; golepondem mine aal de time
mine mind mine no good incline; picks and spades an suction to bruk down rivabuil bank book; riva ah die fish ah die nuffnuff fly ahseh, dis nah lie; cynidewata native ah hallah no fish no food no transport too; … flora fauna ah decrease pollution ruction ah increase; riva run dry man could die nuff cause why dis poem cry… (The above is part of a long poem) The Arts and the Environment Conference was spearheaded by Dr. Michael Niblett under the auspices of the University of Warwick. The conference ran for two days, September 4 & 5, 2010, and the venue was Cara Lodge, Georgetown, Guyana. Other writers and artists shared their work. Some of thosewriters
were Pauline Melville, EllyNiland, OonyaKempadoo, Ian McDonald, Dave Martins, Mark McWatt andPaloma Mohamed. As I write this article a fastidiousness overtook me, constraining me to locate that misplaced poem, discovering in the process others relating to the environment,focusing on climate change like the ‘Georgetown,a watery sound’, ‘Floodyard’, ‘Sea-de-fence-less-ness’, ‘Turn of the tide’, ‘Man-tree’, ‘Career of Grass’… Georgetown, a watery sound Road foh drive boat ah sail Wata Street Main bothaal two de same wata rise an bottom house sink cartun sledge wen brakes wax cold
(*Above is part of a long poem) Floodyards From de festering flood yards of Lusig nan I come Running to you cause I don’t know where else to tun Turning to you with open arms I beg Begging for something anything that is dry A lil dry piece of land, a lil bit of dryfood, dry clothes, No, not for myself but for the lowering cattle That cries in my head with a mourning unheard; A dry piece of land for the poultry in a water where even ducks drown…. (*Above also part of a long poem) ‘Sea-de-fence-less-ness’ deals with the overtopping of the river at Craig, East Bank Demerara. Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com
Family plugs $1M into Sacred Heart Church restoration
A
concerned family has stepped forward to donate one million dollars ($1M) towards the restoration of the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, which is in dire need of additional funding for its completion. The Narine family handed over the cheque to Chairman of the Sacred Heart Rebuilding and Fund Raising Committee, Mr Ramsay Ali on Wednesday last in the compound of the church on Main Street, Georgetown. Although the restoration work is 80% complete, $30M more is still needed. The remaining work has come to a standstill due to lack of funds and the church has been reaching out to the public at home and abroad for further assistance. Matriarch of the family, Gloria Narine said it was a pleasure for them to support the restoration of
Ramsay Ali receives cheque from Gloria Narine in the presence of her husband Noel, daughter Soraya and son Navin
this historic building. Mr Ali thanked the family for its generous contribution and expressed hope that the church will be able to acquire the additional funds needed for its completion. The original wooden building was completely destroyed by fire on December 25, 2004. Still to be completed is the floor, washroom facilities, caretaker’s quarters, landscaping, pews and other minor works. Persons desirous of making donations towards the completion of the church’s reconstruction are asked to do so through Republic Bank Guyana Limited account # 268-496-7; Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited account # CIDA 802530; The New Building Society Ltd account #134769; Scotiabank Guyana account # 10006626; or visit the church online at: www. sacredheart.gy.
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
V
(A look at some of the stories that made the news ‘back-in-the-day’ with CLIFFORD STANLEY)
Fisherman accuses Constable of calling him an illiterate ass - tells court, ‘Is how he say it….it hurt’ (Guiana Graphic, March 15th, 1959) JONATHAN the fisherman is no fool. In fact he is no ass either. But according to Jonathan, that is what the Town Constable called him. “You’re an ass, he called me,” Jonathan complained to Mr Debidin. What was even more worse, the Constable even qualified the type of ass he is: “an illiterate ass”…and that was really too insulting for Jonathan. It was the last straw. Jonathan was so mad that he hurried off to consult his Lawyer. It all happened when Jonathan was selling fish on a city pavement. The Constable it seemed ordered him and other vendors off and when he refused the Constable hurled the insulting words at him, Jonathan said. Maybe if the Constable had left it at that Jonathan would not have been hurt. But on
top of it all the Constable prosecuted him for encumbering the pavement. Jonathan had appeared before the Magistrate on that charge, pleaded guilty and was dealt with. And then it was his turn to prosecute. On the advice of his Lawyer, Jonathan summoned the Town Constable for insulting language. But when his case was called his Lawyer was not on the spot to state his case. However, Jonathan was not particularly handicapped for Mr Debidin was there to hold the scales of justice evenly. And after the Constable’s solicitor had denied the allegation, Jonathan was invited to say in what manner he was insulted. “What was that?” “Sir, he tell me what ah don’t like,” Jonathan stated vaguely. “And what was that?” Mr Debidin urged him on. “Sir, he called me an ass: an illiterate ass,” he added.
“Which offended you more?” asked Mr Debidin good-naturedly, “that he called you an ass or that he called you an illiterate ass.” “Is how he say it Sir,” Jonathan explained. “Oh I see, you didn’t mind the words, but it was his tone which was offensive,” suggested Mr Debidin. But the lawyer for the Constable stated: “We didn’t call him any such thing. All we did was ask him to move off the pavement.” He and others were on the pavement selling fish. And the Constable went up with another and instructed them to remove.” The lawyer went on: “He was a bit reluctant to do so. The other constable remarked, ‘you know, they have a lot of illiterate people here’; that was all Sir.” “Well you heard that,” Mr Debidin turned once again to Jonathan; all he said is that you were illiterate…” Debidin said with a twinkle. “No Sir,” the Constable’s lawyer protested: “Not to him directly but generally. The remark was made to the other Constable.” “Well here are some very sensible people,” remarked Mr Debidin as Jonathan’s lawyer walked in.
Mahaicony Cottage Hospital nearing completion (The Daily Argosy - May 6th, 1960) AT Central Mahaicony on the East Coast of Demerara, the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital is nearing com-
pletion. The L shaped building has a Delivery Room and a Maternity Ward and a Dispensary among other features. The new Central Mahaicony Cot-
tage Hospital will also house the offices of the District Public Health Officer and Health Visitor. Cottage Hospitals are also being erected at Leguan and Leonora.
‘Time and the River’ still tops (The Daily Argosy - May 6th, 1960) NAT Cole’s hit parade ‘Time and the River’ remained top tune last night over Radio Demerara’s Husqvarna Hit Parade program. It was closely followed by Brook Benton’s ‘So many ways’ and the
Drifter’s ‘Dance with me’ in second and third places respectively. The Brown’s ‘Heaven fell last night’ occupied the number four spot. While making its debut in the fifth spot was Craig Douglas ‘Pretty blue eyes’. Making a jump from eight to sixth
space was Cliff Richards ‘A voice in the wilderness’ while in a terrific drop from fourth place to number seven spot was Sil Austin’s ‘Square from Cuba’ . Jimmy Clanton’s ‘Go Jimmy go’ made its first appearance in the number eight spot.
B.G. stamp fetches good price in London (The Daily Argosy - May 13th, 1960) THE first part of a stamp enthusiast’s collection of used Com-
monwealth stamps on complete envelopes realized over £3000 at H. R. Harmer’s Bond Street , London salesrooms on Monday. The collection, formed in the
1920s, included a B.G. 1852 4-cent black and deep blue stamp which sold for £260. It was originally bought for £21.
“Sir,” the lawyer said, “this case is an abuse of authority.” “Not abuse of your client?” asked Mr Debidin with a twinkle. “Well he did tell my client that he was an illiterate ass,” the lawyer stressed. “And I don’t think he is illiterate,” he declared. “Even though he may look illiterate,” was the unpleasant admission. “He sells fish and it takes an intelligent man to sell fish,” the lawyer added. “Can you read and write?” the Magistrate asked Jonathan. “Yes Sir,” Jonathan replied. “Then you’re not illiterate,” agreed Mr Debidin , “so he had no right to tell you so.” “As I have always said,” Mr Debidin then addressed the Town Constable. “All members of the force…whether the Police Force or the Town Constabulary… they must at all times have a civil tongue. They must not even say anything which is derogatory in a general sense.” “You’d better pay him his costs and let this matter be marked withdrawn.” And the Constable did so.
‘TOO MANY LIARS IN BERBICE’ (The Daily Argosy - May 19th, 1960)
HIS Worship Mr Frank Vieira at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on Monday expressed the opinion that there were too many liars in Berbice and that that state of affairs must be changed. He thought Georgetown was bad but he found Berbice to be worse. The observation was made during the trial of a case of unlawful wounding brought by the Police after a witness for the prosecution had given evidence contrary to the statement he had given to the Police.
B.G’s population climbs to over half a million (The Daily Argosy - May 21st, 1960) THE population of B.G. now stands at over half a million people, according to a recent country wide census. Preliminary figures show that there are more women than men. There are 280,048 women and 278,721 men comprising a total population of 558,769. The 1960 preliminary total disclosed that since the last census was taken in 1946, there has been an increase of nearly 50% in the population. (Clifford Stanley can be reached to discuss any of the foregoing articles at cliffantony@gmail.com or cell phone # 694 0913)
(Clifford Stanley can be reached to discuss any of the foregoing articles at cliffantony@gmail.com or cell phone # 694-0913)
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Top 10 Uncomfortable Situations and How to Deal with Them
LIFE is full of awkward and uncomfortable moments. We can’t avoid them altogether, but we can handle them with grace. Here are ten situations we all might struggle with and how to relieve the discomfort. 1. FORGETTING SOMEONE’S NAME It happens to the best of us. You’ve just learned a person’s name five seconds ago (or, worse, met this person several times before) and now you’re drawing a blank. While there are thingsyou can do to remember names next time, you can get around the current emergency in a few ways. If you’re at a professional function and you don’t have it already, you can ask for the person’s business card. You could ask for their name and pretend you just didn’t know their last name. You could introduce the person to your friend (“This is my friend Tina” and Tina will ask the nameless person’s name). Or you can just fess up and say you’ve got a terrible memory, but it’s awesome if the other person has remembered yours. 2. MAKING SMALL TALK AND DEALING WITH AWKWARD SILENCES Whether you’re at a party among strangers or there’s a long lull in conversation among people you know, silence can feel deafening. Everyone wants to have more interesting conversations - or at least avoid awkward ones. The key, as you might guess, is to come prepared. Have a plan, shore up some good go-to stories, use the FORD technique to turn small talk into an actual conversation, and,sometimes, just enjoy the silence. These are the most awkward conversation mistakes we all make - and, more important, how to avoid them. 3. GOING ON A FIRST DATE A blind date takes the stress of talking to strangers (see above) and ramps it up with additional pressure and romantic scrutiny. It’s a good kind of stress, though, at least if your date goes well. To that end, try to pick a great first-date activity, keep your expectations in check, and learn the science behind the perfect first date. (Also, try not to sweat it even if things do get uncomfortable. We’ve all recovered from embarrassing early dating mistakes.) 4. CONFRONTING A COWORKER The most uncomfortable situations often involve our coworkers - those people we interact with on a daily basis and are perhaps borderline friends with. When problems arise, we have to treat them delicately. If you have a problematic - or completely inept - coworker, try having a discrete, polite conversation with the person or kill ‘em with kindness. If you have to call out acoworker who is slacking off, consider whether or not she’s really a roadblock for your work before figuring out wheth-
er this uncomfortable situation is really your problem. 5. TALKING TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT SEX AND OTHER SENSITIVE TOPICS Having “the talk” about sex with your kids might be the definition of uncomfortable. It might not be possible to have a matter-of-fact discussion about human physiology and relationships without eliciting a “Gross, mom!” response. Birds and Bees and Kids is a site that can help broach the subject with your kids more comfortably. Likewise, when talking about drugs, racial issues, or death, the most important thing is to meet the child where they are first and answer honestly and factually, however uncomfortable the situation might feel. Kids are taking their cues from you. 6. TALKING ABOUT TABOO SUBJECTS Speaking of uncomfortable subjects, adults are notoriously uncomfortable talking with each other about all sorts of topics - money, religion, and politics in particular. Most of us avoid these subjects when visiting the in-laws, but sometimes it’s necessary or at least helpful to have these conversations. There’s a lot we can learn from other religions and perspectives on all topics. The key is to stick to the facts and try to find common ground when discussing controversial subjects. Prevent money arguments with your partner or with anyone else by taking the emotion out of it and having a plan in place. Also, don’t feed the trolls. 7. OWNING UP TO A MISTAKE You messed up - big time. The biggest discomfort is in that period when you realise your major error and owning up to it. Once you learn from it or turn those mistakes into steps in improving yourself, the situation isn’t as bad as you might think. It might just make you more human. 8. SURVIVING SITUATIONS THAT INVOLVE THE HUMAN BODY You know what makes people really uncomfortable? The human body. Specifically, things that involve bodily fluids, odors, and touching. We’re very particular about shaking hands perfectly,not passing gas in public, avoiding others’ constant sneezing and germs, peeing correctly in a urinal, and getting rid of bad breath. First let’s get the basic hygiene down.
someone.
9. HELPING SOMEONE THROUGH THEIR ILLNESS OR GRIEF When someone you know or love is in pain, it’s hard to find the right words that might actually be helpful, whether they’re dealing with the loss of a loved one, an illness like depression, oranother health issue. The Ring Theory is a good guide for knowing how to comfort
10. DEALING WITH PEOPLE WHO MAKE YOU UNCOMFORTABLE Maybe it’s the family member who always has to have her way, the friend who never lets anyone else get a word in edgewise, or the coworker who overshares personal details, but uncomfortable situations will probably always come up because that’s human nature. (Source: lifehacker.com)
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
It happened in 1964 …
VII
Court of Appeal negates Magistrate & Full Court rulings - finds agreement between mother & ‘putative’ father enforceable By George Barclay A MOTHER seeking child maintenance from the putative (reputed) father of her child was induced by the father not to attend court, and to rely on an oral agreement for the payment of $10 per month, which he later dishonoured. The resulting effect was that neither parent attended court on the day of hearing, causing the magistrate to dismiss the summons. The mother, Nora Williams, instituted new proceedings against the putative father, Sedial Persaud, claiming $110, representing 11 months’ payment for the child as per agreement, but the magistrate dismissed the claim as illegal and unenforceable. The woman appealed to the Full Court, but it upheld the magistrate’s decision. She then resorted to the highest court in the land -- the Guyana Court of Appeal - which was constituted by Chancellor E. V. Luckhoo & Justices of Appeal Persaud and Victor Crane. The Appellate Court, finding the agreement enforceable and valid, set aside the decisions of the Magistrate and the Full Court, and granted the appellant the sum claimed, as well as costs for the above mentioned courts and the Court of Appeal. The facts of the case disclosed that on October 9, 1964, the appellant gave birth to a child, of whom she alleged that the respondent, Sedial Persaud, was the father. On her application, a summons was issued and served on the respondent, requiring him to attend court on April 1, 1965.
On that day, Persaud denied paternity of the child, and the matter was adjourned to April 29. Neither party appeared on that date, as the respondent had asked the appellant to settle the matter, and had promised to give her $10 per month “for the child”. Magistrate then struck out the summons
in the magistrate’s court for $110, representing payments for 11 months under the agreement. The defence was a denial of the indebtedness and, in the alternative, a plea that the agreement was void and/or illegal and/or unenforceable. Only the appellant gave evidence. The magistrate dis-
for non-appearance. On May 6, 1965, the parties entered into a written agreement purporting to record what they had orally agreed to. In the agreement, the respondent promised to pay to the appellant, on or before the twentieth of each month, the sum of $10 per month ‘from the month of May 1965, to assist her to maintain one of her children”. The appellant, in turn, pledged and agreed that, “as long as this amount is paid to her, she will not proceed by way of Court for its recovery”. However, nowhere in the agreement was it stated that it was because of the oral agreement that the parties did not appear in court on April 29. Despite the appellant’s frequent demands, no money was paid by the respondent under the agreement; and, in April 1966, she instituted proceedings
missed the claim; and, on appeal, the Full Court upheld the magistrate’s decision. On further appeal to the Court of Appeal, that court held:(i) An agreement between a mother and putative father of her child for its support in consideration for a forbearing to continue affiliation proceedings is recognised by the law as valid and enforceable (ii) The fact that no consideration was expressly stated in the agreement is no bar to a successful suit, if there is evidence of a collateral oral agreement which embodies consideration (iii) Collateral agreement apart, there is nothing to prevent the court from looking at the history of the transaction which led to the making of the document, for the purpose of determining whether
there is consideration (iv) From the evidence led, the appellant refrained from attending court on the 29th April to proceed with her cause because of the respondent’s promise, and this constituted sufficient consideration (v) The fact that her forbearance preceded the agreement did not constitute it a part consideration. The appeal was allowed. Attorney-at-law M. S.E. Brotherson represented the appellant, while Doctor F.W.H. Ramsahoye appeared for the respondent. In delivering his judgment, Chancellor Luckhoo said: “The appellant, a single woman (whom I shall refer to as ‘the promisee’) gave birth to a bastard child, “Seenauth”, on the 9th October, 1964. She alleged that the respondent (whom I shall refer to as ‘the promisor’) was the father of that child, and made application on oath on the 4th of March, 1965 for a summons to be served on him to appear before the magistrate to answer her complaint (he not having contributed to the support of the said child within 12 months next after birth) as provided for under Section 3 of the Bastardy Ordinance, Chapter 40. “The promisor was duly summoned to appear before the magistrate touching the premises on the 1st April 1965, when paternity was denied and the matter was put down for the 29th April 1965. “The promisee did not attend court on the 29th April 1965, as she ought to have done, for the reason that the promisor had asked her “to settle the matter”, and had promised to give her $10 per month
George Barclay
“for the child”. When the matter was called up before the magistrate on that day, both parties were absent, no doubt in compliance with the oral agreement reached, and the matter was struck out by the magistrate. “On the 6th May, both parties entered into an agreement in writing, which purported to record what was orally agreed upon. That agreement showed that the promisor had agreed to pay to the promisee “the sum of $10 per month commencing from the month of May 1965, to assist her to maintain one of her children”. “Further, it was stipulated that ‘this amount must be paid on or before the 20th day of each month’, and the promisee specifically agreed to accept the said sum from the promisor, and further agreed and pledged ‘that as long as this amount is paid to her, she will not proceed by way of court for its recovery’. “But it was not there stated that the non-appearance of the parties at court on the 29th April was because of an oral agreement to contribute a specified sum for the support of the child. “The promisor paid no money under this written agreement, despite demands made by the promisee, who, consequently in April 1966, sued him for $110 under that agreement, being the sum due for the months of June 1965 to March 1966, 11 months at $10 per month. “The defence on this claim before the magistrate was a general denial of indebtedness. In the alternative, it was said that if an agreement was entered into as alleged,
‘such agreement is void and/or unenforceable’. “The promisee gave evidence, in the course of which she tendered the agreement and, by consent, a certified copy of the case jacket in the bastardy proceedings, accompanied by her application on oath. She testified that the child mentioned in the document is the child mentioned in the affidavit. “Under cross-examination, she denied the suggestion put to her that the agreement was made because the promisor was “sorry” for her, as she had nine children to maintain. She also denied another suggestion that she had summoned the promisor ‘as he had some worth’. “Her simple and straightforward evidence remained unchallenged, as the promisor led no evidence, and no objection was taken to any of the evidence which she had led. “The magistrate dismissed the claim for reasons which I find nebulous and almost incomprehensible. “On appeal to the Full Court, it was contended on behalf of the promisee that the written agreement ‘was a binding, enforceable contract’, and for the promisor the document did not disclose any consideration; and if it did, such consideration was past consideration”, Chancellor Luckhoo explained. In giving judgment for the appellant, the Chancellor also noted that the Full Court had given no reason or advanced any authority in support of its conclusion in upholding the decision of the magistrate. Other judges of the Court of Appeal concurred with the judgment of the Chancellor.
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SONIA NOEL- by‘BRIDGES ‘Connecting THE GAP’ Caribbean Style’ T By Alex Wayne
HE Sonia Noel Foundation for the Creative Arts (SNFCA) is pleased to announce the launch of ‘Bridging the Gap, Connecting Caribbean Style’, a major fashion event that would be held on June 12 at the prestigious Brooklyn Borough Hall as part of the Caribbean-American Heritage Month. U.S. President Barak Obama has proclaimed June 2015 National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. “This month,” he said, “we celebrate the Caribbean-Americans whose legacies are woven into the fabric of our nation; and we reaffirm our belief that,
throughout the region, we all share a stake in one another’s success. Throughout the Caribbean, courageous peoples have thrown off the yoke of colonial rule, seizing the right to chart their own destinies, and they have overcome the stains of slavery and segregation to widen the circle of opportunity for all,” he said. “Bridging the Gap is an excellent platform to connect New World style coming out from both the cross-cultural Caribbean backdrop and the dynamic Diaspora nexus of Brooklyn, New York. Because of a long history of interrelated synergies spanning more than a century, it is fitting that we proclaim to the world a recognition of our similarities while still acknowledging our differences,” he continued. “We share a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural identity,
which informs our creative arts -- and our fashion in particular -- with a versatile edge that is alive, appealing and, above all, alternative. Our creative arts’ identity would connect our world in style. It would be heartening to experience the networking opportunities and the merchandising advantages of this kind of collaborative endeavour. This is a win-win situation for the practitioners of this burgeoning Afro-Caribbean mosaic. We have something to offer the world: ethnic, exotic, exciting style options that are, at one and the same time, resort wear as well as unique eclectic niche products. “Springing from the symbol of the Brooklyn Bridge, which connects the hub of immigrant cultures in the city of New York to the ultra-urban Manhattan
Designers Athalia Samuels from Trinidad, and ‘Moshood’ from Brooklyn, New York
Guyanese fashion designer Sonia Noel
island, we sense a metaphoric trans-Atlantic bridge connecting the Caribbean to its metropolitan sibling of Brooklyn. “What a fashion stage we can create, bringing together fashion-forward elements brewed in a melting pot of diversity and cosmopolitanism. “The Caribbean region has been known for its white sandy beaches, fresh winds and blue seas; but against that backdrop lies a culture embedded with a rich history of art. Music, food and fashion have played a very important role in the development of what we call ‘a melting pot of strong culture’. Our unique style of island colours, cuts and costumes largely influence our fashion and creative arts’ industries,” he concluded. Sonia Noel believes in collaboration and bringing awareness through fashion to things that affect our society. SNFCA will collaborate with ‘Music Brings Life’ ef-
fort that brings together the worlds of fashion, music and charity. ‘Music Brings Life’ is a profit organization that educates young people in the Black, Latino and Caribbean communities about the importance of donating blood. “I feel very blessed to have this opportunity to lead the team to produce a fashion event to showcase Caribbean designing talent to the world, and at the same time be a part of the ‘Heroes give blood’ campaign. This event will feature a plethora of designers from the French, Dutch and English-speaking Caribbean region and New York, including young emerging designers and a few veterans. The team includes Sonia Noel, Richard Young, Donn Thompson,Phillipa Morrish, Steven Cutting, Joslyn Mendez, Jacques Graham, Marisca Fiedtkou-Jordan, Rudiana Bumbury, Lorna Welshman-Neblett, Karen Gray, and Christine Neblette.
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
For Whom The Bell Tolls Dear Wayne & Tamara,
M
Y fiancé and I are getting married in a couple of months. There is a Nine-year age difference. I felt that worked well for us as I loved his maturity and focus on life goals. But doubts about the wedding are eating me up. We’ve planned our wedding off and on for the last two years. First, let me say I’m not a real wedCalling off a wedding is embarrassing, but being married to the wrong person is a nightmare.
ding-type person. I dread having to wear a wedding dress and the mile long list of things to do. I wanted things small and casual. Every time I tried talking about our options, my fiancé gave me short answers, if any, then changed the subject. So I dropped the planning and continued on with life. Finally I had enough of the dark wedding cloud over my head and refused to move forward without his involvement. He got on board. Since then our wedding has turned into something neither of us want due to all our parents forceful input. Now we are having more people and a different season to accommodate everyone. ► Continued on page X
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For Whom The Bell ...
► From page IX
There are bitter feelings from both family and ourselves. All the fun has been sucked out of it. I am burntout and fed up with everyone including my fiancé. For the last year I’ve felt he’s hit another level and age bracket in his life where he is just no fun anymore. He is not taking care of himself as he used to and has no passion for anything. He feels too old for me now. I’m experiencing the desperate need for colour in my life and he is black and white. I feel like such a kid and he is such an adult. I don’t
know how else to explain it. PETRA
Dear Petra, Weddings are a lot of work or they can be, and if you can’t handle the work of the planning, you lose control. Everyone who helps will pick based on what they like. The bride-to-be may want it to be fun and she may want to be the center of attention, but it isn’t fun for others to go, “Oh, whatever you like.
Oh, whatever you like.” Forget the meddlers and focus on the relationship. Many of your complaints are aimed at your fiancé. We didn’t hear “I love him” or “I would battle to be married to this man.” The last thing a person wants to say, when they file for divorce, is, “I knew I shouldn’t have gotten married in the first place.” Just as there are introverts and extraverts, comedians and straight men, there are people who press for a wedding and then blame the other person when the marriage goes kaput.
Clearly, you don’t want the wedding that is happening. Call it off. Cancelling will do two things. On your fiancé’s side, you will know where he stands. Either you will hear, “Please, baby, no. What’s the matter?” or “What a relief. I didn’t want to be married anyway.” On your side, your deeper self will tell you that you are sad or that you have been given a reprieve. Get back to the normal sense of you two being together. There are things in life we have to own: whether to get a nose job, our college major, and who to marry. These cannot be made by committee. We alone can make the choice. Consider also, was this a willful pairing on both parts? Or did you press him for a wedding and his disinterest reflects his unwillingness to give you a ring. If you marry, make
it your wedding. Go to a courthouse, find a quiet chapel where songbirds sing, or fly to Vegas and get married by an Elvis impersonator. Whatever you do, make it your own wedding. Our suspicion is you
don’t want this wedding or this man. Calling off a wedding is embarrassing, but being married to the wrong person is a nightmare. WAYNE & TAMARA
First Lady
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in nostalgia - as she reflects on President’s inauguration
By Shirley Thomas
M
EMORIES of the splendour associated with Guyana’s 49th Independence Anniversary Flag Raising Ceremony and the Inauguration, a few hours later, of the APNU+AFC coalition
leader, David Granger, as Guyana’s 8th Executive President will remain indelibly etched in the minds of thousands of keenly enthusiastic Guyanese and others who witnessed those signature events on May 26 last. The Sunday Chronicle, in an exclusive inter-
First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger
view with First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger a few days later, enquired how she had felt during those nostalgic and emotional moments, given the public show of support for her husband. Said Mrs Granger: “I am always overwhelmed by the crowd’s response to him, because it shows that
“I am always overwhelmed by the crowd’s response to my husband…it shows that they have a liking for him and that they respect him”
An emotional moment as President Granger acknowledges the thunderous applause and outpouring of support from the huge crowd they have a liking for him and that they respect him; and that’s a good feeling. But it also is [to me] of concern, because the expectations are so high; and how many things can he deliver? “Because I think sometimes people forget he’s just one person and he’s working in a coalition. He’s working with different personalities, who might have different priorities. “The question is,” she surmised: “How do you mould this coalition into one unified machine to move the country forward? That, I think, would be a task by itself. “Yes, I was proud of him. I knew he would be dignified and he would act appropriately,” she concluded. Reflecting on the events of May 26th, the First Lady recalled that
From left are: First Lady, Mrs Sandra Granger, President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Mrs Sita Nagamootoo during the Presidential Inauguration ceremony at the National Stadium
► Continued on page XII
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First Lady in ...
► Continued on page XIII
things started off very formally and emotionally for many people. She opined that many persons had never seen the formality of a flag-raising ceremony. “They never had that opportunity to express national pride through that ceremony, and several people told me that they were crying when they were singing the national songs. They were very, very moved by it. And the biggest thing of all is that at the end of it, when people moved off, there was no litter on the ground.” That obviously would have filled the President’s heart with pride, knowing full well his disciplined stance on keeping the environment clean. Within hours of being sworn in on May 16th last, President Granger was able to influence a massive cleanup of one of Guyana’s key national monuments -- the Independence Arch -- and the city and its environs at large. The first line responders were key private sector enti-
President David Granger inspects the Guard of Honour
Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force during a drill display for the President’s Inauguration, with attendees in background
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► Continued on page XIV
ties who voluntarily and enthusiastically gave of their time and resources, with other citizens later pitching in their lot. Mrs. Granger was heartened that a lot of people take pride in the fact that we have an Independence Arch, and that it was restored in time for the historic 49th Anniversary celebrations. She noted, too, that prior to it being restored, a lot of young people never knew there was an arch there, and what it symbolised. “So there were a lot of pluses, and I understand now it is a tourist site, and already wedding photographers are abandoning the 1763 Monument and taking wedding photographs there under the arch.” She said people have also been seen taking photographs with their children at the Independence Arch. Two arches were presented to the Government
of Guyana by the Demerara Bauxite Company (Demba) on Guyana’s attainment of Independence on May 26, 1966. The other arch, which was erected at the entrance to the Ruimveldt gateway, was removed during the time that the road was being converted from a two-lane highway to a four-lane highway. That other arch is also slated for restoration, and the First Lady commented that she would like to see it restored as a matter of urgency. She also observed that the stairway of the old Palms institution, constructed of designed wroth iron, was removed several years ago during the process of renovating the building. “I really would like to know where those completely wroth iron stairs have gone, and would like to see them erected once more,” the First Lady said.
‘ADDED ATTRACTION’: These lovely ladies add flavour to the event, showcasing creativity in costume design
Not even the rain could stop these schoolgirls from performing at the event
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First Lady in ...
â–ş From page XIII
Youth regale the audience during the Inauguration Ceremony
The Army band performing at the inauguration
A section of the stadium which was packed to capacity
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Tango in style at the National Cultural Centre
–– for free!!! By Alex Wayne EVERYONE who is passionate about the exciting things in life will definitely enjoy an evening laced with heady, intoxicating tango, further accentuated with rich pulsating music to set their soul on fire. With that in mind, and joining with the celebrations of the 49th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Guyana, the Embassy of Argentina, in co-operation with the Ministry of Education’s Department of Culture, will be hosting an exciting presentation of Tango at the National Cultural Centre, today (Sunday, June 7). This pulsating masterpiece will, of course, feature a famous Tango group from Argentina, inclusive of three professional guitar players and two very explosive dancers. This show will bring the passion and romance of the magic of tango through music, dance, and mesmerizing songs. The show is entitled ‘Sutil Tango’ Attendance at this event is absolutely free!
During a press conference on Tuesday last at the Education Ministry’s Department of Culture, Youth and Sport located on Main Street, Georgetown, Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, and Argentine Ambassador Luis Alberto Martino, introduced the performers to the media while revealing their schedule during their stay in Guyana. Minister Henry, who was conducting her first press conference since her appointment, noted that this is a fruitful engagement for the two countries as it gives the public an opportunity to understand and appreciate another country’s culture. This is also a good means of integration and the strengthening of ties between Guyana and Argentina, she said. While acknowledging the good relations between the two countries, Ambassador Martino indicated that the intent of these cultural engagements is to provide ample vision of the cultural expressions of Argentina. He added that the embassy
Tango dancing is very provocative, and is a natural way of keeping fit and toned
is also planning a week of Argentine films, which will showcase another aspect of the country’s art form. Over the past few years, Guyana and Argentine have had a fruitful relationship, which has seen cultural groups visiting Guyana to share their knowledge and skills. It was only in October last year that popular Argentine folklore singer Nestor Basurto visited the country on a 10-day tour, during which he taught music to students and performed at several concerts across the country. The dancers, Alicia Orlando and Claudio Barneix, have been performing together since 1981, and are members of the Argentine National Tango Academy and the Astor Piazzolla International Foundation. Alicia is the main choreographer at the foundation. Together they have performed in many prestigious international art festivals and theatres in Europe, Asia, Central America and the United States of America. They were also apart of films such as ‘Evita’ directed by Alan Parker; ‘A Tango Story’; and the Argentina-Spain co-production ‘No Dejareque no me Quieras’. Both dancers had major roles in the films. The guitar trio of Rodolfo Gorosito, Armando De la Vega and guest musician Sebastian Zambrana was formed in 2000. The trio recreates the most profound and essential form of tango through its compositions in different periods. The trio has also performed in many music halls in Argentina, and has travelled to London, Paris, Zurich and the Middle East. Over the next week, the group will be travelling to Linden, New Amsterdam, and the University of Guyana campuses for outreach programmes. There were also music and dance workshops held on Thursday, June 4, at the National School of Dance and at the National School of Music; and there will be a grand performance at the National Cultural Centre on June 7 at 20:00 hrs. GUITAR TRIO The guitar trio that was formed in 2000 was integrated by guitarists Rodolfo Gorosito, Jose’
The tango group performing for the local media Cataldi and Armando de dle East, and has also made Colombia, Panama, Urula Vega. Tango known through their guay, and many other counThe Gorosito-Cataldi-De musical tours. The group is tries. la Vega group recreates the very well known in ColomThis fantastic tango duo most profound and essential bia, having also held con- also performed in films such form of tango through its certs in Bogota, Medellin as ‘Evita’, directed by Alan compositions in different and Barranquilla. Parker; and A Tango Stoperiods since its beginnings ry, with Alicia Orlando as in the 1920s as a musical THE EXPLOSIVE choreographer and Claudio genre of a global nature with DANCERS Barneiz as artistic producer. a chamber of unprejudiced Alicia and Claudio be- Another riveting masterpiece vision, centred in the search gan their journey togeth- was the Argengina/Spain for expression as a funda- er in 1981, and are now co-produced ‘No Dejare’ que mental tool. members of the Argentine no me Quieras’, with Alicia The Trio has performed National Tango Academy. as the choreographer. in several music halls in Bue- They are soloist dancers of Based on movements nos Aires, such as the world the Astor Piazzolla Interna- from Argentine Tango, findfamous ‘Teatro Colon Opera tional Foundation. Alicia is ings have dictated that this House’, ‘Teatro Presidente also the main choreogra- dance form helps to develop Alvear’, ‘Torcuato Tasso pher of the Foundation. firm body tone, improve Cultural Center’, and at the They have performed posture, give better balance, 9th and 11th editions of the in many prestigious inter- improves general fitness, and World Guitar Festival held at national arts festivals and affords graceful movement. the ‘General San Martin Cul- theatres in European counIt’s sensual and enertural Center in Buenos Aires, tries like France, Portugal, getic, and combines eleamong other presentations. Finland, Greece and Spain. ments of aerobics and tango In the international They have also performed for those who want to get stage, the Trio has per- in various countries of Asia, fit and toned while doing formed in many European such as in Saudi Arabia, something a bit more incities, such as London, Par- United Arab Emirates and teresting and stylish than is, and Zurich, in the Mid- Kuwait; besides in Mexico, jogging on the treadmill.
Rodolfo Gorosito, Jose’ Cataldi and Armando De la Vega will take you down a seductive memory lane of laughter, love and literal romance
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Hearing-impaired no impediment to Ryiad Sattaur ...passion for sports unimaginable By Frederick Halley in Toronto, Canada
I
MAGINE being told at the birth of your first child that his chances of living past three months were extremely slim since he was diagnosed with possible traces
Ryiad Sattaur at his home during the interview of rubella in his blood which affected his heart, hearing and sight. To compound what was already a painful situation, the child had no vision in the right eye as a result of also being born with cataract. That stigma still exists up to today and even this writer wasn’t aware until being told during the
interview. Worst was to come for this family, as three years later, and still defying the doctors who had “given up” on him, that child was flown to Toronto, Canada from his native Guyana where he underwent what can be described as a life-saving heart surgery. On Tuesday, May 2, 2015, although still being hearing-impaired, that child is now a full-grown man, having celebrated his 44th birth anniversary and on the previous day, Ryiad Raphael Sattaur and his extremely proud mother readily agreed for an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle. Known familiarly as ‘Dum Boy’ to all of his many associates because of his life-long impediment, he nevertheless played a key role in the interview with his mom, Zorida Sattaur-Khan explaining how her son has led a normal life through the years and because he was given three months to live, “every birthday is special.” Born on June 2, 1971 in Georgetown, Guyana, Ryiad attended The David Rose School For Handicapped Children for two years prior to migrating to Canada at the age of six. However, through the initiative of Guyanese Dr Walter Singh, the parents were advised that he needed heart surgery when just three years old and this was successfully done at the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. According to Zorida, even the doctors were surprised that her son didn’t suffer any after effects from the surgery but he’s still required to do regular check-ups. Following his return to Guyana post surgery, the family eventually migrated
Ryiad and mom Zorida Sattaur-Khan here when Ryiad was six and his entry into Clearly Public School saw him mixing with normal children in the integration programme which exists in Canada. Ryiad, who also has another brother and sister, subsequently moved on to William Osler High School and Danforth Technical where he completed his high school programme before graduating in 1992. It was then on to George Brown College where he did Graphic Design and Screen Printing which guaranteed him his first job in the latter. Lamenting the fact that he wasn’t
able to graduate with a diploma from George Brown College, Zorida blamed the system at that time which, according to her, wasn’t supportive to persons with disabilities as it is currently now. She however posited that her son was “very good at academics, but his passion was sports. He was very sports oriented and this resulted in him representing his high school at hockey, soccer and cricket.” According to Zorida, his love for ► Continued on page XVII
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Hearing-impaired no impediment ... ► From page XVI
cricket was unending and she reckoned it’s a family tradition since former Guyana and West Indies batsman Faoud Bacchus is a close relative while her husband and brothers were all affiliated to Cosmos Sports and Cultural Club where Ryiad also started playing club cricket. “I remember him playing alongside his father when he was about 12 and the team was short. He could have barely moved with the pads which were almost his size.” That started a long and successful career in cricket as a medium pace swing bowler which saw Ryiad representing Cosmos, Yorkshire, Civics, Vikings Under-19 and subsequently Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club (HACC) for the past 11 years. He has the distinct honour of being part of the HACC which have carted off an unprecedented five consecutive titles in the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) Premiere League and are aiming for their sixth this season.
Zorida Sattaur Khan, Ryiad and HACC manager Eon Gunraj (Photos by Frederick Halley).
Ryiad poses with a replica of the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) Premiere League trophy, won by his team HACC for an unprecedented fifth consecutive season last October
Ryiad’s passion for cricket forced him to acquire videos, especially in the bowling department and according to his mom, he would look at them constantly in order to learn his trade. Among his outstanding feats are claiming a total of 41 wickets in a season for Civics, an incredible nine wickets for nine runs off eight overs for Cosmos and eight for 22 for HACC in the SCA Premiere League. HACC manager Eon Gunraj, who was also present during the interview, interjected that on a windy day. “Ryiad can be one of the most dangerous bowlers around because of his swing.” Gunraj further pointed out that he has known Ryiad for over 25 years and described him “as one of the most dedicated members of HACC, whether he’s playing or not. When he’s not selected he performs duties as our scorer and his performance in that area is also immaculate. He’s also one of the most likeable players in the team, always jovial, funny and he has a knack of imitating and mimicking anyone.” Once any West Indian players are visiting Toronto, Ryiad makes time to meet with them and this has saw him taking pictures with the likes of former Guyana and West Indies captain Clive Lloyd,
and Ramnaresh Sarwan among others and he has them proudly displayed among his wide collection. It was also recalled that during the staging of the Independence Festival matches, Lloyd had insisted that he be part of the Guyana team several years ago. In an invited comment, HACC president Narchand ‘Archie’ Mohan described Ryiad as a perfect foil within the club’s “family”, disclosing that he’s proud to be at the helm with such individuals. An avid pool player, Ryiad is ranked highly among his contemporaries in the Canadian Poolplayers Association (CPA) and the Southern Ontario Pool League (SOPL) and have several trophies as testimony to his undoubted ability. Another remarkable achievement, highlighted by his mom, was the fact that Ryiad obtained his driver’s licence at the required age of 16 and has been driving ever since and according to her, he only did four one-hour sessions within four days prior to receiving same. Zorida took pains to point out that Ryiad was never treated differently to anyone else in the family, he had no hang-ups mixing with others and she’s also impressed how he’s liked among
Courtney Walsh, Shivnarine Chanderpaul
the sports circles.
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Poverty, alcohol abuse, easy access to deadly substances ––fuelling suicides in Guyana AT a staggering rate of 44.2 suicides per 100,000 people (the global average is 16 per 100,000) the small nation of Guyana in South America has the highest rate of suicide in the world. And with fewer than 10 full-time psychiatrists in the country, a shortage of social workers or psychologists and no operating crisis hotline, there are limited options for those seeking help. No one factor can explain Guyana’s shockingly high suicide rate. Health workers have pointed to the deep poverty in rural areas, the prevalence of alcohol abuse (which is notorious for its contribution to successful suicides) and the ease of access to deadly substances. Some scholars have theorised that exposure to certain herbicides and pesticides used in the country makes farmers more prone to suicidal behaviour. Because of a strong stigma and a lack of resources in Guyana, suicide as a public health issue has fallen by the wayside. Efforts by the Ministry of Health in the last few years have been nominal, and those interventions that have taken place seem misguided at best. Savitri Persaud, a doctoral candidate at York University who has done extensive research on mental illness in Guyana, highlighted the inadequacies of one recent government initiative. One of the most frequently used suicide methods in the country is the ingestion of pesticide. As many people are farmers, pesticides are readily available and contribute significantly to the high suicide rate. In response, the government distributed storage cabinets with locks to farmers who won a lottery, with the aim of limiting accessibility and encouraging safe usage. In the initial stage, 10 farmers received cabinets, with the total number distributed said to be only 150. “That is not suicide prevention. That is not proactive, that is reactive,” says Persaud. “We need to think twice about our knee-jerk responses.”
NECESSARY STEPS Restricting access to potentially lethal means, such as firearms, ropes or poisons, is a necessary part of prevention, but is not of itself sufficient. Effective suicide prevention involves intervention on an individual level – psychologically and physiologically – and also in the wider community. In Guyana, Persaud notes the power-
symptoms can be interpreted certain ways by religious leaders.” The Guyana Foundation, a private philanthropic institution tackling Guyana’s social problems, has taken on the problem of suicide at the ground level. Anthony Autar, the managing director, spoke about the multiple ways in which the foundation has approached suicide prevention. The foundation has reached out to police, family and survivors in rural areas to educate them about suicide and
With fewer than 10 full-time psychiatrists in the country, a shortage of social workers or psychologists and no operating crisis hotline, there are limited options for those seeking help ful effect of stigma and the importance of grassroots intervention. Mental illness is misunderstood in the country, with symptoms often mistakenly attributed to witchcraft (known locally as obeah). Communities often ostracise sufferers, and on occasion have physically assaulted them, at times with the endorsement of religious leaders, who are highly respected figures. “Guyana is a place where most people live in villages and rural areas, so those who people tend to reach out to are religious leaders,” says Persaud. “In some ways religious leaders become first responders.” Taking into account Guyana’s specific culture with religion, she says, “we have to take into consideration the way mental health
suicidal behaviour. In addition, it conducted training sessions in Georgetown, the country’s capital, for religious leaders, social workers and representatives from NGOs. It also launched an information campaign in local newspapers to challenge misconceptions about mental illness. The foundation is currently trying to partner with international agencies, such as those in Canada, to route calls from those in need to crisis lines abroad. “Guyana just doesn’t have the capacity,” says Autar, “so we’re doing our best to become creative in seeking solutions.” They’re seeing success. Autar reports that large companies are requesting more information on suicidal behaviour
and intervention for their employees. When the foundation offered to connect citizens with mental illness to professionals, they received 50 phone calls in a fortnight. “It shows that people are recognising they can get help and are willing to reach out,” says Autar. MULTI-SECTORAL APPROACH Persaud herself encourages a multi-sectoral approach, saying: “The medical community needs to be actively involved, the church needs to be actively involved, community members need to be actively involved.” In a sentiment echoed by professionals worldwide, Persaud says a comprehensive approach should apply not only to Guyana: “The problem is cross-cultural. We can’t call certain countries advanced just because they use the medical model.” In the Region overall, the issue is gaining attention. The Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) has recognised suicide as a major problem, and is focusing special efforts on raising awareness and implementing changes in government policy and in public health services. Between 2010 and 2013, PAHO launched Region-wide initiatives to address treatment gaps in mental health, and has integrated mental health in its strategic plan for 2014 to 2019. Efforts have seen some success. According to a report released in 2014, only six countries and territories in the Region do not have mental health policies established. (Simultaneously, much work remains to be done, as only eight countries have established targeted, upto-date mental health laws.) While top-down interventions are beginning to show results, with psychiatric care moving from psychiatric hospitals to communities and more legislative action on mental health, most Caribbean countries are still struggling to fight the stigma of mental illness at grassroots level. (Source: The UK Guardian)
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BY 2020, MOBILE NETWORKS WILL BE VIRTUALLY OMNIPRESENT WITH network speeds jumping up, we may all end up mobile data hogs. Each month, the average smartphone in South America consumes 2.1 gigabytes, or the equivalent of about 10 hours of streaming video. By 2020, that usage could rise nearly six-fold to 11 GB a month.
Jacquard. Project Jacquard is an effort to invisibly incorporate computers into objects, materials, and clothing. Everyday items such as sweaters, jackets, and furniture will be turned into interactive surfaces that can be used as trackpads, buttons and more. The objects will receive information directly from the surface of the material used to build them, eliminating the need for bulky plastic or metal parts. The objects will then transmit information to a nearby smartphone or computer using low-powered Wi-Fi. In order to give everyday objects computing power, Project Jacquard engineers had to weave conductive yarns into common textiles. The yarn created for Project Jacquard combines ultra-thin metallic alloys and common synthetic yarn such as cotton, polyester or silk. The end result is a fabric that’s strong enough to be used in common pieces of clothing and home interior items. The yarn is meant to be indistinguishable from common household fabrics. Creating a conductive textile material was only half of the equation. Project Jacquard engineers also created complimentary computers that are meant to power any textile-based wearable. The computer components created by the Jacquard team are no bigger than the size of a button, and they’re capable of capturing touch interactions and various gestures. The commands received by the sensor would be wirelessly transmitted to a mobile phone or other device within range.This isn’t the first time we’ve seen conductive material woven into fabrics. But Google wants to help make such products less of a novelty and more common. In order to do that, the company will be partnering with fashion brands to integrate useful wearable computing into fashionable clothing. Google announced that the first partner in Project Jacquard is Levis. To learn more about Project Jacquard, check out the video below.
This immense growth in advanced mobile technology and data usage, driven by a surge in mobile connectivity and smartphone uptake, will make today’s big data revolution feel like the arrival of a floppy disk. While scores of companies are concerning themselves with connecting everything from t-shirts to washing machines, smartphones will still make up the lion’s share of data usage. Smartphones will make up 80% of all global mobile data. The numbers of smartphones users are also expected to jump over 6 billion subscriptions.
YOUR WIRELESS INTERNET COULD POWER YOUR FUTURE DEVICES Wi-Fi allows us to connect to the Internet by transmitting data through the air itself, but what if it could be used to power our devices wirelessly as well? Scientists at the University of Washington are currently working to make it happen. PoWiFi, short for power over Wi-Fi, tricks routers into sending out a constant signal that’s captured and converted into DC power by a harvester. Wi-Fi already transmits a small amount of power to carry data, up to 1 watt by FCC guidelines, compared to the 5 watt output of a typical Android or iPhone charger. This technology captures that power that’s already being sent, and puts it to work.
GOOGLE & LEVI’S ARE WEAVING COMPUTERS INTO YOUR CLOTHES Google’s Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) group is one of the most exciting divisions of any major technology company: It’s where Project Ara, Google’s modular phone experiment, and Project Tango, Google’s 3D-mapping tool, were born and are continuing to be incubated. Now, Google is shooting for the moon with another big idea—Project
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
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JIVONSKI THORNE XXII
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
A musical tidal wave set to engulf universally
By Alex Wayne
G
U YA N A i s known for her lush tropical jungle, sprawling pastures, abundant waters and happy people. But, over the years, our country has become quite popular universally for producing some of the most talented musicians. A few years ago, an extremely young and gifted singer came on the scene and shocked audiences with his vocal versatility and natural ‘onstage finesse’. His voice drips like liquid honey, and his notes and ranges are quite astounding for a singer
who has not yet attained the ripe era of ‘developed teenaged journey’. WHO IS HE? Growing up in the small village of Craig, East Bank Demerara, he was just like any ordinary child who found a passion for a sport, a favourite cartoon character, playing a video game, or who even wanted to be like his icon. He is the youngest of eight, and from a tender age has had a passion for dancing. He liked listening to all types of music, and was always fascinated by Jumo Primo (a member of the popular duo X2 of Guyana).
He even first danced on stage to the song ‘Tick Tock’, which was done by the X2 artistes. But nobody knew that the passion of this little one would lead to him becoming the next ‘big thing’ in Guyana. This vibrant little lad, a Michael Jackson fanatic, is one of the reasons why anyone should think twice about ever giving up on their ambitions. A s he w as alw ays outgoing with his older sisters, they all came to notice that he has more inside of him than he was showing. It came to the forefront some time ago, when they were at Cinderella Records, one of the
many recording studios in Guyana, and discovered that not only was he a really good listener, but he also had a fantastic voice. They had never thought that he was so talented, and this discovery automatically brought him attention. Wanting to become a superstar was always his dream, and he is one of the few young people who are willing to work for what he wants. His talents were later recognised by Jumo Primo, who recommended that Kross Kolor Records was the ideal place for him. His parents took the advice, and when he met the manager of the record company, he auditioned and was gladly accepted as part of the Kross Kolor family. His dream is now on its way to becoming a reality, and he is truly a hard worker who just never gives up. If you think that an elevenyear-old can’t make it, then you have never met
Jivonski Thorne reproduces raw vocal talent from the tropics Jivonski Thorne. He is currently the youngest artiste signed to the Kross Kolor Label, and is also the youngest performing artiste in Guyana. He is, moreover, the reigning winner of the 2010 Cellink Kids Stage Competition, the first of its kind. He is one little man with a whole lot of attitude; and when it comes to performing, he does it with ease and confidence. He is a very fast learner, and is very promising to work with. He has already recorded his first two singles, ‘Too Young’ and ‘Hello’, which are making waves in the Guyanese music industry, along with his signature performance which mimics the moves of the late great Michael Jackson, from whom he
gained all of his inspiration. His mind is already made up, and he aspires to become a musician. With more songs and videos on the way, this young man is ready to take his career to the next level. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “children are our future leaders”; well, they are, and you’re about to learn of someone who contributes to making this statement true. Here is a child who is respectful; is never too tired to work; and is always willing, always smiling, and always making you believe that anything is possible. Born on the 3rd of January, Jivonski Thorne was created to perform.
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
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Hazardous Waste Management I
N 2000, a suite of four ‘Pollu-
quantity, concentration, physical, chemi-
tion Prevention’ Regulations
cal or infectious characteristics may pose
developed by the Environmental
a health hazard.The lists of hazardous
Protection Agency (EPA) became en-
waste focused on by the Agency to be
forceable. One of these Regulationsis
controlled are:
the Hazardous Wastes Management Regulations which is intended to aid
Wastes from the production and
preparation of pharmaceutical products;
in the control of hazardous discharges
Waste Oils;
whether on land or into the air and
Used Lead Acid Batteries;
and medicines; and
publication. A copy of the objection will
Wastes from the production,
be sent to the applicant who will then sub-
formulation and use of biocides and phy-
mit an application for an Environmental
to-pharmaceuticals.
Authorisation. The EPA will consider
Environmental Authorisation
these objections when deciding to grant
Since the year 2000, any operator of a
the Environmental Authorisation.
facility that generates, stores, transports, disposes or treats hazardous wastes must
A facility that stores or generates
write and submit a “notice of activity” to
hazardous wastes in quantities less than 100kg per month; acute hazard-
water ways.
ous wastes in quantities less than 1 kg
TheEPAhas also created guidelines to
per month; or accumulates up to 1000
increase the public awareness and under-
kg of hazardous wastes on site does not
standing of the proper way of handling,
need to apply for an Environmental
disposing, treating and storing of hazard-
Authorization from the EPA.
ous wastes.It is important to understand that hazardous wastes are both dangerous
WARNING!!
to human health and the environment
Hazardous Waste is dangerous to our
and if not dealt with correctly can have
health and the environment. Always en-
detrimental impacts.
sure you read labels carefully and follow
The Hazardous Wastes Regulations
the safety precautions before using any
(2000) were created to protect human
substance. It can save your life!
health and the environment from the
Persons are advised to call the EPA
adverse effects of pollution from very
on 225-5467-9 ext 240 or245 for more
dangerous substances. Therefore, once
information.
the Agency becomes aware that persons are generating, handling, storing or transporting hazardous substances
You can share your ideas and ques-
in an improper manner, the Hazardous
tions by sending letters to: ‘Our Earth,
Waste Management Regulations will be enforced and can result in penalties
Asbestos;
by way ofa fine, imprisonment or clo-
Clinical wastes from medical
sure of facilities. Hazardous waste is waste or a combination of wastes which, because of its
care in hospitals, medical centers and clinics;
Waste pharmaceuticals, drugs
Our Environment’, C/O EIT Division, the EPA. The EPA will publish the notice
Environmental Protection Agency,
at least twice in a daily newspaper. Mem-
Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGE-
bers of the public can make objections
TOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@
at least 60 days after the date of the last
gmail.com
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Woman with EIGHT FOOT waist says:
‘Men don’t fancy skinny girls’ Mikel Ruffinelli with husband Reggie Brooks
A
woman who holds the record for having an ‘eight foot’ waist, says “men don’t fancy skinny girls” and she’s happy as she is. Mikel Ruffinelli appeared on the TLC documentary World’s Biggest Hips and said: “I rather be this size and happy, with me loving me, than to be skinny, that size, and be unhappy.” Her husband, Reggie, loves his wife at the size she is and agrees with her jokingly saying: “I tell people all the time: I have a license to work with heavy equipment.” Mikel said that she believes: “Men don’t fancy skinny girls, they like an hourglass figure. I think it’s very feminine to have curves. It makes us womanly, it makes us beautiful.” The four women who appear in the show were crowned winners of the world’s widest hips - with a combined circumference of a
whopping 27ft. Voluptuous ladies Mikel, Denise, Marlena and Claudia, say they couldn’t be happier with their sizeable saddlebags, despite their daily struggles to get about. Curvesome Mikel Ruffinelli, 42, who currently holds the world record for the biggest hips, measures in at a well-rounded eight foot. The mum-of-four, from Los Angeles, loves her womanly shape and husband Reggie worships her statuesque form. Proud Mikel said: “I’m extreme, I have an extreme physique. I love my curves, I love my hips and I love my assets.” But with the visual perks come the physical drawbacks and Mikel is forced to side-shuffle around her house to avoid getting stuck in corridors and even struggles to fit in the shower. (Excerpts taken from a Natalie Corner and Sarah Ridley article in the UK Mirror)
Mikel Ruffinelli, and her family
‘Those Hips!’: Mikel Ruffinelli sits on a chair
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
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Lorenzo Tsoi
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
- A hard-working and irreplaceable son and brother By Telesha Ramnarine
Lorenzo Malcolm Tsoi
LORENZO Malcolm Tsoi is quite a hard-working young man whose number one priority is his family and caring for their needs. Thus, he toils for a full eight hours each day at Builder’s Lumber Yard to earn his dollars. The 21-year-old Lorenzo, who was born to Malcolm and Ratirani ‘Rita’ Hardeen and raised at North East La Penitence, in Georgetown, has two brothers Leonardo and Luke and a sister, Gianna. He attended Stella Maris Nursery School before pressing on to North Georgetown Primary and Campbellville Secondary. Growing up, Lorenzo thought about becoming
a pilot, joining the army, and developing his skills to make video games. But circumstances did not allow him to go in any of those directions so he decided to take whatever job was available to him. LOADS OF WOOD Lorenzo worked at Toolsie Persaud Limited and Narine’s Liquor Store before gaining employment at Builder’s Lumber Yard on Lombard Street. Currently a porter here, this is by no means an easy job. In addition to loading and offloading trucks of wood, Lorenzo helps in the cutting and measuring. He explained that on certain days after reaching his workplace at Lombard Street, he and others then make their way to the sawmill at Friendship, on the East Bank Demerara where they continue the hard work. “Truckloads of wood come to the sawmill and we
With his little sister Gianna have to pack it. Up there is hard work. We have to go up, collect the wood and load it on a truck. My work is hard. I like it but it is hard,” he said in an interview with the Chronicle a few days ago. Lorenzo can name a number of species of wood due to his experience and diligence on the job. “I
could name about 20 species of wood off hand. Some school children come from time to time for samples. At first, I was confined to just a few species of wood but at Builder’s, they deal ► Continued
on page XXVII
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
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World’s oldest cat dies in her sleep - aged 27 years, two months and nine days
By Christopher Bucktin, (UK Mirror) THE world’s oldest domestic cat has died. ‘Tiffany Two’ passed away in her sleep aged 27 years, two months and nine days. The feisty feline lost her ninth life while in her sleep, cuddled up next to her longtime owner in San Diego, California. Sharron Voorhees paid £6 for the shorthaired black and orange tortoiseshell when she bought her from a pet store at six weeks old. She named her after a previous cat she had which died in the 1970s. “She spent her last days laying either on the deck or down in the yard,” Sharron said. “She used to sleep right next to me every night. “But in recent months she slept in the middle of the staircase, or, most recently, she had taken up residence on the dog’s huge pillow-bed in the living room. “But that night she slept next to me on her heated pad. And that is where she passed.” “I feel okay about everything,” she added. “I did have a long time with her and I feel
the end was as perfect as it can be without morbidity. She just loved me to pieces and was clearly devoted to me.” Tiffany Two was born on March 13, 1988 and was crowned the oldest living cat by the Guinness Book of World Records in October 2014, just seven months before her passing. Although she was a world record holder, she fell short of the title of the oldest cat ever. That crown is still held by Cream Puff from Austin, Texas, who was born on August 3, 1967, and lived until the age of 38 years and three days. A spokesman for Guinness World records said: “We are very saddened to hear that Tiffany Two, the holder of oldest cat living record, has passed away in her sleep at the age of 27 years two months 20 days.” “We are currently investigating and verifying the potential successors for the oldest living cat title and will announce this once we’re in a position to do so. “We welcome applications for this title.” Anyone believing they now may own the world’s oldest living cat can lodge their claim at www.guinnessworldrecords.com
Rest in purrs: The world’s oldest pet cat Tiffany Two has died
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Lorenzo Tsoi
► From
on page XXIV
Lorenzo and his family with many types so I have learned the differences.” MY FIRST PRIORITY Lorenzo sometimes ask himself whether he wants to do this type of work for the rest of his life and finds that his real intention is to press on and move forward. But he modestly acknowledged: “I know I have people depending on
me. Sometimes I ask myself if this is what I want to do for the rest of my life but I can’t do anything better right now. It keeps food on the table. I have already programmed my mind that
family and their needs as his first priority. “I take time out to spend with my brothers; they are so cool and are my only friends. I try to teach them the right thing also. My mother and I both help them
With his mom, Rita this is what I have to do.” This does not mean, however, that he will not take steps to improve his lot in life. “I have plans to go back to school. I want to write at least five subjects at CXC and then I want to get into the agriculture field.” Lorenzo said ever since he started dealing with lumber, he has developed an appreciation for the Guyana Forestry Commission and his intention is to someday gain employment there or with a similar Agency or firm. “I have plans to improve myself but I am making use of my circumstances; working with whatever is available at this time. Only recently I was thinking to go to NAREI and other agricultural institutions to do a few courses,” he related. Presently, Lorenzo said he refuses to waste his hardearned money as he sees his
with their school work,” he explained. Furthermore, he said he ensures that he play with his siblings, and also discipline them when necessary. Lorenzo came in for much praise from his mom Rita who told the Chronicle that her son sometimes mean more to her than a husband. In fact, she said some of the things that he cares for in the home are things that some husbands would not even do. “He is very quiet and easy going but don’t mess with his family or you are gonna get it. He’s very hard working and he puts his family first. He wants nothing fancy. He is not a fancy guy. He doesn’t party, he’s just at home. When he goes out is when the family goes out. That’s him. He’s there for us,” the proud mom said.
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
South Africa Lion Park death:
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Game of Thrones editor savaged to death - she had wound her window down for a closer look at the beast before it pounced and mauled her By Alison Smith-Squire WHEN a lioness approached the car in front during a day out at a safari park, Ben Govender grabbed his camera for an unmissable photo opportunity The animal wandered over, put its paws on the side of the car and peered in at tourist Katherine Chappell, who had wound her window down for a close-up encounter. But what Ben saw next will haunt him for the rest of his life. Within seconds, Katherine, 29, was dead after the beast lunged at her without warning and tore a chunk out of her shoulder. Horrified Ben, 38, said: “It was terrifying. After the first bite the lioness retreated from the car with blood dripping from her mouth and paw. “We all thought she was done and didn’t like what she’d just bitten. But like someone in a temper that wasn’t satisfied in a fight, she leaped back into the car and mauled the passenger. The rangers came running in and the two lions ran off but the lioness had half
the passenger’s shoulder in her mouth. And it was too late to do anything to save her.” Katherine, from Rye, New York, was a successful video editor whose credits included the hugely popular TV series ‘Game of Thrones’. She was visiting Gauteng Lion Park, in Johannesberg, South Africa, on Monday last. Ben, an engineer who lives nearby, was also there with his mum, sister and two friends over from India. “We decided to show our friends a local spot where they could see real lions in a wild setting,” he recalled. “The SUV in front of us stopped next to two lions and the driver rolled down his window. “The passenger did the same, I presume to get a photo. The male lion didn’t seem very interested by this and the lioness didn’t seem bothered either. She got up very lazily and stretched out her body. Then suddenly without ► Continued on page XXX
M A U L E D TO D E AT H : American Game of Thrones special effects editor Katherine Chappell
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Game of Thrones editor ... ► From
on page XXIX
Seconds from death: Katherine Chappell just as the lion attacked
warning she stood up at the window.” He went on: “At first it just looked like an amazing shot of a lion stood up at
the window. The lion can only have had its head in that window for around 15 seconds. At that moment the tourist was face to face with one of the most ferocious, incredible and magnificent animals. But then the lioness lunged and we saw the driver diving into the passenger seat and punching at the lioness.” Ben said it looked like the driver had no chance of speeding off or closing the window. Devastated, he added: “The lioness was just too powerful. It was extremely fast – all over in a matter of a couple of minutes. “And all we could do was hoot the horn for help.” By the time the gamekeepers arrived Katherine, known to pals as Katie, was dead. Tour guide Pierre Potgieter, 66, who was driving the 4x4, has told how he tried to save his passenger during the “worst experience of his life”. Pierre, who suffered a heart attack and was left with injuries to his arms as he tried to fight off the lioness, claimed “cowardly staff” would not help and accused the ambulance of taking too long to arrive.
But Ben said: “Her face was torn apart, the right side of her chest was gone. Nothing could have been done to save that woman.” Ben’s family were offered
next.” Katherine, who posted a snap of her and Stephen Fry on Instagram, was in South Africa as a conservation volunteer. Paying tribute on
HORRIFIC: Katherine Chappell, 29 (at right) who was mauled to death, with her sister Lauren Chappell counselling after their ordeal. He said: “I thought I had videoed it but in the shock of what happened I found I had pressed the wrong button and ended up with just the one photo. “It looked almost innocent – a photo of this beautiful lion stretched out, standing up like that against the car. No one could have imagined what would happen
Facebook, her sister Jennifer wrote: “Katie was a brilliant, kind, adventurous and high spirited woman. She was very much loved and shared her love for life with those she met.” Her death is the third attack in four months at the park, which boasts of “super close-up views” of the animals on its website. (Uk Mirror)
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
CONSUMER CONCERNS
Pat Dial
Unpunctuality by Public Officers
M
OST members of the public, at one time or another, have to visit governmental or semi-governmental offices to effectuate business. The usual time of work is from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. but in most offices there is no officer present at 8.00 a.m. and they mostly cease work long before 4.00 p.m. And the telephones are very often left untended resulting in the public being unable to make contact with the office. Even when members of the public are lucky to meet an officer, they could nonchalantly be told “come again tomorrow”! Many of the persons who visit government offices are the old and the weak and they go there at great pain and sacrifice and could barely afford their bus fares. Others are persons who have taken time-off from their jobs with limited time and cannot expect supervisors to allow them time-off repeatedly. These unnecessary hardships caused to the public by unpunctuality and insensitivity are unacceptable This culture of unpunctuality was not always a characteristic of Guyanese government offices. There was a time when the public were attended to at 8.00 a.m and even after 4.00 p.m. and administration was more orderly and productive. Restoring the culture of punctuality is not an insuperable task since it was very much a part of our ethos. Many experienced senior administrators feel that the culture of unpunctuality has become so deeply engrained that to attempt to change or remove it would result in sullen resentment and resistance and that even supervisors and colleagues may not support them. This culture of unpunctuality and insensitivity in government offices has to be eliminated if we are to enjoy a more friendly and efficient administration. A few suggestions which could be considered in this regard are: (i) An intensive awareness programme of the necessity of punctuality and positively addressing the public’s problems should be carried out in every Government office. (ii) Ministers of Government must emphatically identify themselves with the programe. (iii) Managers/supervisors must themselves set the example of punctuality so as to be able to effectuate it for the staff as a whole. (iv) Methods of checking on workers’ arrival and departure such as the resuscitation of Time Books could be introduced immediately. (**Consumer complaints: patdial26@ gmail.com)
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Fujitsu unveils incredible iris-scanning smartphone which opens up when you eye it up FUJITSU has unveiled a new smartphone which can be unlocked with little more than a lingering glance. The snappily-named ‘Arrows NX F-04G’ invites owners to engage in a short staring competition rather than typing in a password. To unlock the phone, all owners need to do is hold the
smartphone’s gaze for 0.6 seconds. The Arrow uses technology called Iris Passport, which “eliminates the need for inputting passwords or patterns”. This super-smart functionality can even be used within apps, with iris scans used to open password-protected websites in the phone’s web browser. The new mobile is the first to use eyeball-scanning tech, following in the footsteps of Apple’s iPhone 5S, which can be unlocked with a fingerprint scanner. In a statement, Fujitsu said: “Many people carry their
Eye-phone is the first to work by scanning its owner’s peepers - but will customers feel comfy staring out a mobile? smartphone with them everywhere they go, and these smartphones are used in a variety of situations throughout an individual’s daily life. “After carefully identifying the necessary elements of a smartphone that help deliver a more enjoyable lifestyle, Fujitsu equipped the Arrows NX F-04G with iris authentication, a feature that saves time and is easy to use.” Aside from its iris-scanner, the Arrows functions much like any other high-end smartphone, with a beefy, long life battery and a 21 megapixel camera. Sadly, anyone who is eyeing up the new smartphone may have to wait a while to buy one, because it’s only available in Japan at the moment. (UK Mirror)
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
20-year-old invents ingenious system to rid ocean of trash By Olivia Solon A 20-year-old Dutch man has invented an enormous machine that can help the ocean “clean itself”. Boyan Slat plans to create enormous floating barriers in tidal locations around the globe to capture some of the eight MILLION tons of plastic that are dumped in oceans each year. He’s created a non-profit organisation called Ocean Cleanup to build the barriers, which will be launched from 2016. The storm-resistant floating booms collect rubbish for easy disposal - without harming wildlife below. The first one - which at 1,981 metres will be the longest floating structure ever put in the ocean - will be deployed near the Japanese Island of Tsushima. In August, the non-profit organization will also send a load of boats to the area between Hawaii and California in order to make a high resolution map of all of the
The Ocean Cleanup, founded by Dutchman Boyan Slat Great Pacific Garbage Patch - an enormous island of rubbish. (UK Mirror)
Deployment will become longest floating structure in world history
The Ocean Clean Up
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
SALVAGE H & CREATE – DIYs, beauty and fashion tips
ELLO everyone! Having a manicure and pedicure done at a salon creates one of the best feelings; but when does being pampered ever not create those feelings? But when time and money are limited, your next best bet is a good old fashioned DIY ‘pedi’ and ‘mani’. Below are a few steps that should help you complete a good old fashioned ‘pedi’ and ‘mani’.
with Raveena Mangal
STEP 1: Start with a clean canvas Before you start, make sure your finger and toe nails are polish-free, using a remover. Do you have hard-to-remove glitter polish on; or perhaps several layers of polish? A simple and effective removal trick is to soak a cotton pad in nail polish remover and then wrap the pad and nail in aluminum foil to prevent evaporation of the
remover. Wait a few minutes, and twist, rubbing the polish off. STEP 2: Find your shape Next, use clippers and/or a file to gently shape your nails to your desired length and shape. Next, smooth the surface of your nails with a buffing block (this will also remove ugly yellow stains we all get from wearing too much dark polish!). Follow up with the smooth buffing side for a high shine! A quick DIY way to clean your nails is by rubbing a little lime or lemon juice across and beneath your nails for a few minutes, to quickly remove dirt and stains. STEP 3: Soak and scrub Soak hands for two to three minutes and feet for five minutes in warm water, or you may do so for an even longer period if you can! Now, time to exfoliate! Pay special attention to heels and knuckles. For an easy at-home fix, mix one tablespoon of sugar with one tablespoon of baby oil, petroleum jelly or coconut oil, and gently scrub and massage away the dead, dry cells. This leaves your skin feeling like silk. Rinse and pat dry. Before moving on to step four, swipe the nail beds with polish remover to remove any oil and moisturizer. The key to long lasting polish is su► Continued on page XXXVI
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
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Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
SALVAGE & CREATE ► From page XXXIV per clean nails! BONUS! Can’t open your nail polish because the lid is stuck to the bottle? Don’t use your teeth! To unstick a bottle of polish, you only need to drop it in some warm water. STEP 4: Do it like a pro Apply a base coat of nail polish to smooth any ridges and create an even surface for your colour. One thin coat will do it! Paint one or two thin layers of polish on your nails, allowing your colour to dry completely between each coat. To do it like the professionals, swipe the polish down the centre of the nail first, then on each side. The key is to make the layers of polish as thin as possible, which will aid in longevity and help the polish dry more quickly.
BONUS! Take a piece of stiff paper and cut a few half circles out of the edge. Don’t worry about making them perfect. Place the first finger you are going to polish into the half-circle that fits it best, inserting the card just slightly under the edge of your short nail. Even if your nail is shorter than short, you can make this happen painlessly. Now paint the surface of your nail, without getting it all over your skin. STEP 5: Shine on, then don’t touch anything Always apply a top coat; besides adding a great shine, it smoothes away flaws. Just one coat is all you will need. To quickly refresh your mani/pedi throughout the week, add another layer of top coat. It makes a huge difference. Next, just sit back and give your nails a chance to dry.
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ARIES - There’s nothing wrong with this week that a little social planning can’t set to rights. Although you may encounter resistance from a friend, or even a love interest, discussion could help find a creative solution. Later, misgivings can give way to a light-hearted and joyous tone. Feelings of perfectionism may heighten on Sunday. Try to see the best in yourself and others without too many expectations. Friendly vibes can make this a fun time for all. TAURUS - The desire to splurge could be the reason your shopping list keeps getting longer. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on Tuesday could coincide with a strong temptation to purchase a big-ticket item you’ve coveted for some time. Don’t immediately go for it. Wait a few days and see how you feel about it then. The move of Venus into Leo is excellent for entertaining or hosting guests in the coming weeks. It seems you’re going to be busy on the home front - in a good way. GEMINI - Conversations lead to productive encounters along with opportunities to get involved in creative projects. Take it easy on Tuesday, though, as intense feelings could stir up issues involving your sweetheart. This isn’t the time to make snap decisions or say anything you could regret later. The rest of the week seems delightfully upbeat, bringing encounters that inspire and delight. Sizzling chemistry may endear you to someone very quickly. The weekend brings a chance for all-out indulgence. CANCER - You’re at that time of year when it’s good to relax and recharge. Use this chance to tune in to your heart’s desire and tune out the world’s distractions. As Venus moves into Leo you’ll be more in touch with your core values, which might help you make a key decision. Even so, it helps to pace yourself, particularly if you’re busy professionally or socially. You’ll get more done if you lighten your schedule and focus on what needs to be done. LEO - Translate restless urges into plans that can pave the way to a better future! A part of you may be looking for something new, fresh, and exciting in life. Moving in new circles and networking with key people could have a positive influence on your well-being and happiness. Venus dancing into your sign might encourage you to change your style of dress or hair, giving you a glowing new image. If it boosts your confidence, go for it! VIRGO - Career matters come very much to the fore, with this week’s alignment excellent for networking with the right people, getting advice, researching your options, and getting your face known in the right places. You’ll benefit from listening to your intuition, too, as it could be a crucial factor in finding the right job for you or hooking up with someone who turns out to be on your wavelength as well as fantastic company. Make time to have fun. LIBRA - Find something to celebrate this week, as the active influences can make for a memorable time. A focus on relationships suggests that being a team player could be more useful than working alone. Plus, when Venus glides into Leo a romantic bond could deepen as a result of one or two fabulous dates. You may be inspired to make travel plans over the weekend. Any innovative ideas that can expand your horizons should be considered, too. It’s time to have fun! SCORPIO - Business matters seem to go well this week, with the wheels of commerce turning in your favour. You might pick up a few tips by hanging out with others who are experts at closing deals and making money. If you’re already an expert, consider teaching others how it’s done, as it could be a lucrative source of income. If you enjoy theatre and drama, you’ll do well on stage, or you could excel in general by making the most of your natural charisma. SAGITTARIUS - Don’t be so serious about life that you forget how playful your true nature can be when encouraged. If you’ve had a lot of responsibilities to contend with lately, it might be time to relax and seek some fun. The Full Moon in your sign on Tuesday is perfect for parties and celebrations. With the current alignment, you may be champing at the bit in anticipation of travel adventures and other opportunities to explore. CAPRICORN - Though creative conflict could show up, the motivation to make a start on an idea you’ve been mulling over should bring results. Don’t let doubts about your ability prevent you from going ahead. The move of Venus into Leo might be enough to chase away doubts, boosting your confidence and enthusiasm and helping you get ahead. Success happens when you take that first baby step and keep going. You’ll also benefit from a chance to relax and recharge. AQUARIUS - Your curiosity is piqued, enticing you to consider dating if you’ve been out of the loop for a while. You’re in your element this week and eager to enjoy the pleasures of life. Even so, you might want to lighten your schedule around the time of the Full Moon in Sagittarius. As feelings could run high, it would help to ease off the accelerator and go with the flow. Later, social opportunities look especially encouraging, with a chance of a delightful meeting. PISCES - This week career and job prospects may be on your mind,
along with parental concerns and home-based projects. Take advantage of opportunities to solicit opinions, as there could be a lot to discuss. In addition, the temptation to indulge could show up as a result of Venus moving into Leo on Friday. If you’re eager to keep off the pounds, you may want to step up your workout routine or make notes to yourself to persevere with your diet.
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CXC
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
For it is your business, when the wall next door catches fire. HORACE 65-8 B.C.
STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Suppose one of your real problems is the reluctance to revise. Get started on the right foothold. Construct a study list subject by subject, topic by sub-topic and go over the list adding labels to each item to show a degree of interest, understanding/ knowledge, ease or difficulty, urgency or usefulness at the time of assessment. Start attending immediately to those heavily labelled items and pursue your list until very close to the examination. Study wisely. Love you.
LIGHT READING First Excerpt At the beginning of the month, after my mother had been to the town to buy her stock, the house was full of sacks and crates. There were sacks of rice, sacks of sugar and sacks of flour. There were crates of sardines and pilchards, of corned beef and yellow soap. There were rolls of bright cotton cloth, tins of cooking oil and drums of kerosene. The store and my mother’s bedroom were crowded with boxes, and the room where I slept with the older boys housed the overflow of my mother’s wares. One night I found there was no room for all of us to put down our mats and I was soon crowded out by the bigger ones. I wandered around looking for a place to sleep. My father was working on his books in his sitting room, my mother and her girls were cooking in the kitchen, the little ones were asleep and the bigger boys playing cards in their room. I felt very alone, and I began to like the feeling. I stood on the veranda and watched clouds moving across the face of the moon so that the night grew brighter and darker. A night-bird flew past me and rested in a tall tree. I found myself saying, “Alone, up high, like a bird.” The words, and the idea, sounded wonderful to me and I repeated them again and again. In my mother’s room was a pile of sacks of rice, rising almost to the ceiling. I climbed to the top of it and found there was just enough room for me to sit without bumping my head. I lay down and felt wonderful, alone, up high like a bird. But I could not sleep and gradually I began to be afraid. The shadows moved and took on strange shapes. The leaves of a tree, moved by the breeze, slid round the edge of the window frame, like boneless fingers. I wished my mother would come to bed. I wished that I had made a fuss and brought my father out of his sitting-room to insist that I was given room in the bedroom with the boys. I tried repeating my words to myself but they had lost their magic. However, eventually, I must have fallen into an uneasy sleep, although it seemed to me that I still lay awake on my high bed watching the shadows. I looked towards the door and saw it opening slowly. I was gripped by terror. I tried to scream but no sound came. I tried to move but my limbs were dead. A man came into the room, closed the door silently and turned towards me. He had no face. With a tremendous effort I screamed, and woke up to hear a small harsh sound coming from my throat. There was no man there. I stumbled and slid down from the pile of sacks, whimpering with fear, and hurled myself across the room and out on to the veranda. My father’s lamp still burned in the sitting-room, my mother and the girls still
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
English
worked and chattered in the kitchen. I had only slept for a few minutes. All my wish to be alone vanished. I wanted nothing but human company. I began to cross the compound to go to the kitchen but before I reached there I heard my mother call out, “Look (Francis Selormey’s “T, a witch!”he Narrow Path”) Something to Do Get hold of a friend and study partner and search the passage for The following paragraphs/ portions: a) One that gives background information - why is its content called background? b) Portion(s) that build up the story to its climax - what short sentences / phrases are effectively used? and yet, c) What is the last paragraph doing/ telling you? Another Passage Quick Starts Homemade appetisers are one of life’s simple pleasures. As a start to a meal, a little something to nibble on while relaxing with family or friends, or centre stage for a buffet, a good appetiser brings with it the promise of more delicious bites and fun to come. Deli counters and freezer cases are filled with ready-to-serve morsels, but as hectic as life is, I refuse to give up that special feeling that comes from preparing my own sometimes. The recipes in this chapter are proof that delicious does not have to be difficult or time-consuming. When you start with a plump rotisserie chicken, you can serve everything from casual Eight-Layer Dip with Spicy Chicken or more elegant Stuffed Mushrooms Alfredo with a minimum of time and effort. Appetisers should be fast and fun. Who has time to spend endless hours fussing over little gems and arranging them just so on a platter? When you choose from this section, you have exciting flavours that can quickly offer something scrumptious to nibble on while chatting, sipping a cool drink, or anticipating a main course. Many of the recipes can be prepared ahead of time, and tips are included for even easier serving. Remember these delectable bites for a special occasion or make an everyday occasion special by reaching for the rotisserie chicken to start things off just right. With the time you save, you may even have a few minutes to fuss with how they look on the platter. (Carla Fitzgerald Williams’s “Rotisserie Chicken to the Rescue!”)
About the Passage
This passage from a cookbook says things to new cooks and those learning to entertain, and maybe others who need reminding about some timely ideas. This passage sets out to challenge your handling of another kind of language use – the language of the kitchen.
What to Do
Give the meaning of the following words and phrases. If there are terms familiar to you, then it would be a good thing to go outside the passage to other cookbooks to have further discussion and examples to enlighten study partners who are not so grounded this way. a) homemade appetisers b) a little something
f) plump rotisserie chicken g) appetisers should be fast and fun
c) centre stage for a buffet
h) something scrumptious
d) that special feeling
i) anticipating a main course
e) recipes
j) delectable bites
k) make an everyday occasion very special
Chronicle Pepperpot June 7, 2015
Introducing Arya’s Fresh-cut…
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Taking Guyanese supermarket isles by storm - finding the freshest and most conveniently packaged vegetables By Raveena Mangal TIME there was when the bustling marketplace was where consumers would go to get their supplies of fresh organic vegetables. Not so anymore! The team at Arya’s Fresh-Cut -– Farm Fresh, Healthy Living -– is changing people’s perceptions of the vegetables available at supermarkets. The initiative has its genesis in the increased production and consequent consumption of fruits and vegetables in Guyana and the Caribbean region over the past several years. This rising consumer demand has also come with greater awareness of food safety, quality, and increased need for convenience and efficient service. In response to these demands, Arya’s Fresh Cut Produce was established. The company assures that the safety and quality of wholesome fresh-cut produce necessitates the selection of high quality horticultural produce for processing, and the implementation of good practice during processing operations, in order to maintain product quality and assure final product safety. Thus far, Arya’s Fresh-Cut line of produce includes cabbage (chopped); karela (corailla) - cut and cleaned; bell peppers (sweet pepper); passion fruit; ochro; wiri-wiri peppers; boulangers; pumpkins and tomatoes. Uncommon produce such as basil, mint leaves, ginger, oregano, cilantro and dried thyme are also grown. The owner of the company happily disclosed that some of its biggest hits on the market are fresh mixed veggies. The chowmein mix (bora, carrot & cabbage), fried rice mix (bora & carrot), as well as the seasoning mix (celery, parsley, oregano and basil) has been receiving rave reviews for convenience, freshness, nutrition, safety, and the eating experience. Apart from presenting the consumer with a range of options in a single package, fresh-cuts reduce wastage at the household level, since the produce is often already peeled and are always cleaned. Additionally, the clear packaging allows the opportunity to readily assess the quality of the produce being purchased. Owner and manager of the company, Diane Persaud, said Arya’s Produce is geared to provide convenience in a package. “You don’t have to worry about getting spoiled produce, or damaged produce, or muddy/unclean produce. All Arya’s produce are hand-selected, graded and triple-washed, with the final wash being a high oxygen wash which removes all organic matter, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc. This is the hallmark of the production line, which ensures that the highest quality gets into the hands of the consumer,” she explained. The business is supported by trained technical personnel with over 15 years’ experience in the agricultural sector in Guyana and in the Region. “We feel a sense of pride as Guyanese to know that we can offer consumers here and even abroad a quality produce that can meet the highest standards”, she noted. Diane disclosed that Arya’s Fresh Co is using only local produce grown in Guyana by Guyanese. “It is a joy to hand-select every tomato or passion fruit or mint leaf and put it into that beautiful package, knowing that whoever picks it up at the supermarket will thoroughly enjoy its freshness,” she declared. The operation has already created jobs for some dedicated young ladies, who are not only assured of a livelihood, but wish to see that Guyanese get the best quality fresh produce. And Ms Persaud said: “it’s not always good to send the best produce to foreign countries and leave second and third grade quality for those that live here. We will -- I am sure we will -- change this. I believe that everyone should have a taste of the
highest quality, and that is what we do”. She encouraged persons who are keen on safe, wholesome, healthy fresh foods to check out this line of produce in the supermarkets of Survival and Bounty (Kitty, Bourda and Grove); at Rossignol Butchery and
at Ashmins, to experience the freshness and convenience of Arya’s Fresh Cut Produce. Arya’s additionally does orders for special occasions, and can be contacted on aryafreshco@gmail. com and Tel: 592-610-0528.
Fidal Bassier - one of Guyana’s most admired photographers
By Shivanie Sugrim AMIDST last year’s Mashramani celebrations, a distinctive photo of a vagrant was taken and uploaded on Facebook, where it went viral on every social media network in Guyana. Thereafter, more exceptional photos began to appear on the walls of Facebook and Instagram. It is not often that we encounter in Guyana innovative and distinctive photographers who would influence us by delivering messages through tiny details and emotions captured within photos. Fidal Bassier, founder and owner of ‘55 Photography’, is no stranger to us, as he has distinctly climbed his way up the ladder to becoming one of Guyana’s most prominent and most admired photographers. Inspired by his father, who was once a “picture-take-outer” back in the days, Fidal would sit and scan through all his work, and try to imitate him. Thereafter, he began learning the art of photography, and his quest for knowledge eventually turned into a hobby; he enjoyed doing photography whenever he got the chance to do it. This hobby was lengthened when his daughters entered his already-perfect marriage. From that moment, he began to understand the importance and value of capturing the girls as they mature. “The girls never liked posing for long periods, so I learnt to observe and capture them in the moment; and in a way I think that helped me with wedding photography. Over the years, I found that I really enjoyed taking portraits, and that eventually got me into wedding photography,” the enthusiastic father and thriving photographer disclosed. As evident from his photos, weddings are his forte. From only a few online
courses coupled with home practice and observations from talented local photographers, Fidal has made a dynamic arrival into Guyana’s wedding photography industry. His first paid wedding assignment was in 2010, after praises of his work were pervasive. Armed with his DSLR camera from the brands of Canon and Nikon, a confident Fidal would walk into a wedding and would leave everyone dumbfounded as he makes his way into the crowd to capture the perfect set of photos. Weddings are very unpredictable, so, in mastering the issue of ‘light’, Fidal says: “I enjoy shooting with whatever natural light is available as I find this a bit more pleasing. Using multiple flashes and video lights takes a bit of skill and time to get it just right, and you usually don’t have that much time at weddings to setup lights. The bride and groom are always on the move.” The biggest challenge he has faced in shooting
Fidal
The award winning photo taken by Fidal Bassier that went viral. The vagrant’s eyes are sad and lost, the rough texture of his hair and beard jump out of the photo. The bleak colour of his clothing and his hair texture really contrast with the vibrancy in the background. wedding pictures is not hav- laxed and happy in front of ing enough space to move the camera, the location is around to capture important secondary. moments, added to eager Several photographers wedding guests who would fill the list of role models; want to capture their own among them are Cliff Mautphotos. ner, Jerry Ghionis, Steve McMost photographers Curry, and Bruce Davidson. think highly of ‘Photoshop’ At the moment, Fidal in the final assessment of is networking with other their images. Fidal, on the photographers and taking other hand, deems it as not online courses to further entirely important unless a educate himself on the art of client specifically requests photography. something. He is also involved with At the moment, however, a group on Facebook called he is using ‘Abobe Light- ‘Guyana Photographers’. room’ to help sort and pro- They run challenges, compecess images for his clients. titions, organize photo-walks This goes to show that he is and other activities, so that a natural in editing photos, photographers can meet up as no high-tech software is and share information with being used. anyone who is interested His ideal wedding shoot -- hobbyist or professional. place would be anywhere This, he noted, is his way of that is spacious; for instance, helping in the development a play field or a hall. How- of Guyana’s photography ever, he has learnt overtime industry. that once the couple is reHis ‘This is it’ moment sharing a moment with his daughter is still in the making, as he is currently learning new things in this business. Asked what sets him apart from other photographers, he disclosed that he is uncertain, but added: “I just try to capture images that mean something, and I’ve been fortunate enough to have clients who are happy with the work I produce.” Holding a strong vision for this industry in Guyana, the talented photographer noted that photographers should network more, share information, and work on establishing a photography society since Guyana posits a lot of talented photographers who, if they work together, can definitely raise the standard and value of photography.
The unique work of Fidal Bassier