Pepperpot epaper 12 18 2016

E.R. Braithwaite; my mentor and friend XIII â–ş Page

Author and Diplomat, E.R. Braithwaite strikes a pose with Writer, Francis Quamina Farrier

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

AKTFF fulfilling its mandate with pride

By Frederick Halley WITH the Christmas season fast approaching, the Aditya Kids Trust Fund Foundation (AKTFF), managed mainly by three Toronto-based Guyanese, is once again focusing on its annual seasonal Santa Claus parades which take place in Essequibo and Berbice.

Plans are already in place for the parade in Wakenaam, which is usually done around the entire island on Saturday, December 17 while the Bush Lot-to-Ithaca version is set for the following day.

During the parades, goodies, including toys, clothes, school supplies and sweets, are being distributed to children, while hampers, strollers and bicycles, among other items, also form part of the give-aways.

Co-founder of AKTFF, Narchand “Archie” Mohan, who hails from Cotton Tree Village, West Coast Berbice, pointed out that the foundation, which is situated at Bath Village, was formed several years ago, with the name originating from one of its beneficiaries who unfortunately passed away while undergoing heart surgery in India.

According to Mohan, the child’s death

further energized him and a board of directors, who at present include two other Canadian-based Guyanese in Wakenaam-residents Tyron Madramootoo and Prem Punwassie, who hails from Port Mourant, to help needy residents in Bath and other outlying villages.

The local directors are popular Guyanese cricket commentator Inderjeet Persaud, who is also a school teacher, and top Banks DIH executive Shabir Hussain.

Throughout the years, the non-profit organization has been helping underprivileged children with medical expenses, and has also been involved in a number of other social activities, operating under the motto “Investing in Our Future by Helping Kids.”

Mohan, who is also the long-standing president of Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club, which competes in the Scarborough Cricket Association Premiere League here, disclosed that AKTFF raises funds mainly through donations and social events here in Canada, and uses the proceeds to help the sick and less fortunate.

Apart from the give-outs at the parades, Mohan also emphasized, each month a senior citizen is identified to recieve a hamper,

Graduating students from a recent computer class

compliments of Madramootoo, while AKTFF also loans wheelchairs to residents in the area at no cost to the individuals.

The day-to-day activities of AKTFF are taken care of by a staff of five, supervised

by Lilly Beharry, with the building boasting a library and resource centre which cater for computer classes for all ages during the day, free of cost, while there are also extra les-

Part of last year’s Santa Claus parade

sons for children writing the Grade Six and CSEC examinations, and these are conducted from Monday to Saturday.

During the August holidays, AKTFF also holds summer classes for both adults and children, and these are followed by a graduation ceremony.

A proud Mohan, who said he has no intention of parting ways with AKTF, is of the belief that while many children were born into poverty, they should be given every opportunity to live and succeed in this world.

Meanwhile, Mohan has expressed sincere thanks to all those who have made contributions over the years to the AKTFF, including the Rosignol branch of Republic Bank for its annual contribution. He is also calling on would-be donors to come forward and make donations. These donations can be made directly to the AKTFF headquarters at Bath, the three overseas directors – Mohan (416854-3816); Madramootoo (647-299-4890) and Punwassie (416-881-3379).

Mohan also had special praise for former Region Five chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth, who he said assisted the foundation greatly during his term in office.

Wilbert Benjamin Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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Berbician

– unending love for cycling continues

Flashback: Coach of the Flying Ace Cycle Club, Randolph Roberts (left), receiving sponsorship package from CEO of the Benjamin’s Sports Store, Wilbert Benjamin

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada - When Berbician Wilbert Benjamin left the shores of his homeland Guyana in 1992, the former national cyclist was bent on maintaining his love for the sport which had become part and parcel of his family.

Hailing from Fyrish, Corentyne Berbice, and now residing in Toronto, Canada, Benjamin’s father, elder brother and uncle were all cyclists of some stature, so it wasn’t by coincidence he quickly got initiated into the sport.

While Benjamin still competes periodically, he’s the proud owner of Benjamin Sports Sales & Services, which specialises in providing all brands of racing cycles and accessories, plus repairs and services.

This business was established in Toronto in 1998, one year after Benjamin took up residence here after spending five years in Montserrat following his migration from Guyana in 1992.

Still harbouring a love for his hometown, Benjamin went a step further with the opening of “Benjamin Sports” at Fyrish in 2012.

The well stocked sports store, which is being managed by his brother Gary, includes all makes of racing cycles and accessories --frames, wheel, bells, brakes, helmets, chains, pedals, seats, among other things.

Fitness equipment, including treadmills, are also part of the store’s stock, as Benjamin is a firm believer in fitness and opined that it should be an integral part of Guyanese daily lives.

A major difference in the two stores is while the one in Toronto caters mainly for cycling, the Fyrish entity sells a variety of sports equipment, which includes cricket and soccer gear.

True to form, the opening was christened by the staging of a grand cycle race.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle in his store here and intermittently interrupted by customers, Benjamin recalled his feats at the schools national championships in Guyana, when he rode away with three consecutive national school titles in the late 80s.

Benjamin also pointed to his fine performances in several junior championships where he, along with his older brother Gary, carted off titles still rides occasionally in the veteran category. According to him, few in the Ancient County wanted to compete against the “deadly” combination during the 80s and early 90s. The younger Benjamin had also donned national colours at the Inter-Guiana and Carifta Games.

During his stint at the senior level, Benjamin represented Guyana at the Pan American and Texaco Games in the early 90s.

Migration did not deter his efforts to continue in cycling,and according to him, he was crowned the B Class Champion for three consecutive weekends, while also finishing among the top riders in what was then termed the Mid-West classic (road circuit) in Missassauga, Ontario. Benjamin also participated in the then popular Ride For Heart 75-kilometre road race, a charity event which served as a practice ride for upcoming events.

However, business commitments have hampered his seen his participation dwindle, although he pointed out that retirement is a distant thought.

Still a staunch member of the Flying Ace Cycle Club (FACC), Benjamin has been a consistent contributor, both financially and otherwise, assisting several up and coming young cyclists in the process, and also villagers in the community. Over the years, Benjamin has been providing uniforms to the FACC, which has been in existence for more than 30 years.

According to Benjamin, his aim is not only to assist cyclists and the people of Berbice, but all of Guyana, moreso the persons who helped him along the way. He also wants the young cyclists to have all the latest equipment available at reasonable cost.

Wilbert Benjamin competing during his heyday

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Christmas and Christmas symbols IN this Season of Christmas, we see a great number of Christmas symbols but most young people are not aware of their meanings. This is especially true of the throngs of consumers who shop in the downtown stores or attend the many social functions where there are Christmas trees and other decorations.

We will give you the meanings of some of the most usual symbols:-We often see "Christmas" spelled "Xmas" but always pronounced "Christmas". The reason for this is that the Greek letter pronounced "Chi" represents "Christ" and "Chi" closely resembles an X in Roman script. Accordingly, the X in Xmas represents "Christ"; thus we

pronounce it "Christmas and not X-mas.

The colours which are used in Christmas decorations are mostly green, gold, red and blue. The greens are found in the Fir (Christmas trees), holly and mistletoe. The gold, red and blue are found in the other decorations. Green has been inherited from the pre-Christian religions of Northern Europe in which the Fir tree, holly and mistletoe were used to represent the Deity and as symbols of prosperity, protection and good luck. Gold represented the Sun and Light and were part of worship of all the ancient religions such as Hinduism. This colour was adopted by the Christian religion and given a Christian meaning as was Red which rep-

resented the blood of Jesus and blue which was associated with Jesus' mother Mary.

Blue also represented the sky and Heaven.

December 25 was a symbol of Jesus' birthday. Jesus was not born on 25th December, but 25th December was chosen by the Church in the fourth century to celebrate Jesus' birth anniversary. The reason for the choice of 25th December was that 23rd December, the Winter Solstice, was the shortest day in the year. After the 23rd, the days gradually became brighter and longer since the Sun became more prominent. December 25 corresponded with the Roman festival of Saturnalia and the Teutonic (northern European) festival of Yule, both of which marked the Winter Solstice. 25th December, Christmas, thus removed any conflicts with Saturnalia and Yule of the older religions and absorbed many of their customs and symbols.

One of the most ubiquitous symbols of Christmas is Father Christmas or Santa Claus. Santa Claus derives from Saint Nicholas who was a Greek bishop of the city of Myra in Asia Minor in the fourth century.

St. Nicholas was famous for his love and care of children, his generosity and freely giving gifts, especially to children. There are many stories of his miracles and his goodness. He became a legend over the centuries and representations of him dressed in his mitre and red bishop's robes gradually evolved into the present Santa Claus. America played the major role in the creation of the modern Santa Claus. His reindeer and sleigh full of gifts developed simultaneously since one of St Nicholas' attributes was that he could fly.

The coloured and golden balls which decorate Christmas trees and other places in homes represent the balls of gold which St. Nicholas threw into the home of a young woman who needed a dowry so that she could be married. And the stockings were among the favourite places he placed children's gifts.

The poinsettia flower with its large red floppy petals and its green leaves is used in Christmas decorations both as bunches of flowers and as pictoral representations. It

is one of the favourites on Christmas cards.

It blooms at Christmastime. There are two versions of how the flower received its name: the first is that it was named after the French nobleman dePoincy who explored the West Indies in the 17th century and the other is that it was named after the 19th century American Poinsett who brought it from Mexico to the US. The Christmas Star which is usually of silver is very widely used in decorations.

It represents the Star of Bethlehem which guided the Magi, the three Wise Men, to the place Jesus was born so that they could give him the gifts they had brought. Not to overstep the size limit of this article, we will mention only two other symbols: The red and white Candy Cane is found in all Christmas confectionery assortments and is a favourite of children. The curved handle

of the cane represents the shepherds' crook or staff since the shepherds were present on the night of Jesus' birth. If the cane is turned downwards, it becomes a J representing Jesus.

The other symbol is the silver bell.

From medaeval times the biggest bell in the churches was rung to welcome the birth of Jesus and in the 19th century, carolers walked with small bells to enliven their singing. The silver bell in addition to being part of decorations. is celebrated in some of the most loved Christmas songs.

Literature Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Sylvia Plath’s

“Mirror”

(Sylvia Plath 1932 - 1963)

AS we move into a season of attending a myriad of parties and gatherings, there is an implement found in every house that we will be resorting to just before we step out for each event: the mirror. They might seem simple, but mirrors have always been important to the literary world. They have always occupied a special place in literature, particularly due to their presentation in novels.

The Mirror of Erised in the Harry Potter series or the mirror in Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass are good examples, but we can go even further back to the myths of ancient Greece and find the story of Narcissus staring at his own reflection in the river; and in that story a different kind of mirror is to be found, offering insight into who the person staring into the mirror truly is. Of course, those are all examples that come from the genre of fantasy. But there are many suitable examples of mirrors being used in contemporary fiction in a variety of genres. One of the most famous mirrors in literature comes from a poem, unsurprisingly called “Mirror”, that was written by the American poet Sylvia Plath.

Plath’s “Mirror” is interesting because the persona of the poem is a mirror. Therefore, everything that is said in the poem, everything that is relayed to us, is told from the perspective of, and through the voice of, the mirror.

This reminds us of the old adage: “What if walls could talk?” Based on the speaker in plath’s poem, it does seem as if pondering on what could be learned if mirrors could talk has as much worth, as the things they would say would be quite stimulating and illuminating.

The poem begins with the mirror describing itself as “silver and exact” and without preconceptions. It says: “Whatever I see I swallow immediately / Just as it is, unmisted by love

or dislike.” These opening lines highlight the ability of mirrors to reflect what they see exactly as it is – which is something that becomes more important later on in the poem. The word “swallow” is used not only to further enhance the personification of the mirror, but might also be to hint at the ability of mirrors to lure people in; of mirrors being able to consume, in a sense, the individual who constantly stares into them, or, in other words, the individual who is obsessed with how he/she looks. Indeed, when the mirror in the poem refers to itself as “the eye” of a god, it is not completely lost on the reader as to why the mirror would consider itself to have so much power.

While the first half of the poem is used to establish the position of power the mirror occupies, the second part of the poem focuses on the relationship between the mirror and the woman who owns and uses the mirror. Harping back to Narcissus and the vanity that resulted in his doom, the mirror compares itself to a lake, noting how the woman is leaning over it and “searching my reaches for what she really is.” When the mirror tells us of the woman’s reaction when it reflects her body (there are “tears and an agitation of hands), we instantly get the impression that the poem is not merely some fun, witty verse in which the mirror is the speaker, but it is a commentary on themes that include truth and illusion, as well as youth and old age.

The woman in the poem has given the mirror the power it possesses, a power that is the same power that it has over her. The closing lines of the poem, where the mirror claims that “In me she has drowned a young girl, and in me an old woman / Rises towards her day after, like a terrible fish” summarizes the core issues in the poem and emphasizes the circular manner in which, day after day, the woman goes

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By Subraj Singh

to the mirror seeking comfort, hoping to see herself as she wishes to see herself, and instead only finds misery when the mirror, playing its part, shows her the truth, as she is, old and not young and beautiful as she once was.

“Mirror” contains a moral lesson, and it is one that fits well into this time of the year, when dressing up and cavorting around at social gatherings will become the norm for a few weeks. However, the end-of-year

season is meant to signal two particularly important events that we often choose not to remember: the end of another year in our lives and the passing of time. So, the face you see in the mirror this year will not be the same one you see in the years to come and therefore it is of utmost importance to not instill more relevance than necessary to that which lies on the outside, that which is temporary.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Decorations from paper and cardboard CHRISTMAS is only a week away! For those of you who are late decorators and may have missed our articles in the previous weeks, this week we present to you simple decorations that can be made from those old stacks of newspaper or cardboard you may still have lying around.

1. NEWSPAPER ORNAMENT Creating a newspaper ornament to hang on the tree or by itself is a very easy task. Simply bunch together a few sheets to create a ball, then cut out strips of even length and roll them tightly into rolls. Ensure you tape or glue the ends so that they do not unravel. Then glue each roll onto the ball you created to form the complete ornament.

2. TOILET PAPER WREATH Toilet paper rolls are an item you probably never thought could be used to create something wonderful, but they can! Instead of throwing out those toilet paper and paper towel rolls after you’ve finished using them, this Christmas create wreaths with them. To begin, cut about 2 inch sections from the rolls.Paint the outside and inside of each section that has been cut. Put together five pieces to create a flower. Make as many flowers as you would like, so that your wreath can be as large as you would like it to be Create a circle with the flowers you have made to form the wreath. Of course, you can accessorise your wreath with beads, ribbons, etc.

3. PAPER CHRISTMAS TREE Create a table-top Christmas tree from

those stacks of newspaper that you will probably never use again. For this, you’ll need a chopstick, cardboard and an abundance of newspaper. Cut about 11 different sized squares using newspaper. You’ll need copious amounts of each size. Run the chopstick through the cardboard to create a base to place the newspaper, then stack the newspaper squares, placing the larger ones at the bottom, placing them in different angles to create the effect shown in the diagram.

As we enjoy the bliss of Christmas, we once again encourage all to be mindful of the impact their actions have on the environment during this season of goodwill.

If you do choose

to create these wonderful decorations, remember you can store them safely to reuse them for many years to come. For more ideas on reusable decorations, log on to: http://www.lifehack.org/326403/ green-5-diy-christmas-decorations-using-recycling-materials http://sugarandshimmer.blogspot. com/2010/11/ m y - n e w s p a per-christmas-tree. html Happy Holidays!!!

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

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

VII

Thumb sucking LIKE many parents, you may be concerned about your child’s thumb sucking, finger sucking or pacifier (“comforter”) use. You may wonder if it is harmful, at what age it should stop, or what could happen if your child does not stop.

You can rest assured that sucking is one of an infant’s natural reflexes. They begin to suck on their thumbs or other fingers as pacifiers while they are still in the womb.

Infants and young children may suck on thumbs, other fingers, pacifiers and other objects. It makes them feel secure and happy, and it helps them learn about their world.

Placing a thumb or another finger in the mouth provides some children with a sense of security during difficult periods, such as

when they are separated from their parents, surrounded by strangers, or in an unfamiliar environment. Since thumb sucking is relaxing, it also may help induce sleep. For this reason, young children may suck their thumbs in the evening or at other times when they are tired.

Prolonged thumb sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and the alignment of teeth. By prolonged I mean in excess of five years old.

The habit can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth. In such cases the dentist will have to use a palate expander if orthodontic treatment is eventually required.

Children who rest their thumbs passively in their mouths are less likely to experience

difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs. When an active thump sucker removes his or her thumb, a popping sound is often heard. Some aggressive thumb suckers may also cause problems with their primary (baby) teeth.

Pacifiers can affect the teeth in essentially the same way as does sucking on fingers and thumbs. However, pacifier use often is an easier habit to break. The same can be said of rare cases whereby the child continues to suck his or her mother’s breast even after his or her fourth birthday. If you offer an infant a pacifier, use a clean one always.

Never dip a pacifier in sugar, honey or other sweeteners before giving it to an infant.

Most children stop sucking their thumbs or other fingers on their own between the ages of two and four. The behaviour lessens gradually during this period, as children spend more of their waking hours exploring their surroundings. Peer pressure also causes many school-aged children to stop placing their fingers in their mouths. If a child does

not stop on his or her own, parents should discourage the habit after four years. However, excessive pressure to stop can do more harm than good.

Parents need to consider the following: 1.Instead of scolding the child for thumb sucking, offer praise for not doing so.

2.Children often suck their fingers when feeling insecure. Focus on correcting the cause of the anxiety and comfort the child.

3.Reward the child when he or she avoids thumb sucking during a difficult period, such as being separated from family members.

The dentist also can encourage the child to stop sucking his or her thumb, and explain what could happen to teeth if the habit continues. I even show the child pictures.

If these approaches do not work, remind your child of the habit by bandaging the thumb or putting the hand in a sock at night. As a last resort, there are many techniques and methods used by dentists to break the habit.

folklore

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

By Neil Primus

A creepy tale from Victoria Mr. Joe Barlow, a village elder and amateur historian of Victoria, shared this strange story with me. It is a true story.

During the nineteen fifties, the village of Victoria was well managed by a nine-member council. They were all elected by the villagers, and ensured that the area was always kept spic and span. The Lady Sendall Park which was located in the village had been somewhat neglected and had gradually been overrun by weed and bushes. To rectify this obvious blemish in the pleasant community, the elders consulted with the head teacher of the village’s school, Mr. S.A. Truman, and requested that the students be allowed to help in the clearing of the facility.

This exercise would help to instill in them the value of preserving historic sites.

The idea was accepted, and a day was earmarked for the special activity. On the appointed day, the students arrived with cutlasses, rakes, hoes and scythes. Soon the project was on the way, with the able supervision of the teachers. It was work only; no liming. Grass and weeds were slashed, small plants cut and tossed onto a pile to be burnt later. After hours of hard work, the park was cleared of all the bushes and weed, and the students were dismissed and sent home.

After a wonderful day of work and co-operation, the village of Victoria expected to relax and savour the completion of the restoration of the park. This was not to be.

Victoria was destined for a chilling incident that same night.

Weeks prior to the Sendall Park project, a stranger moved into the village and took up residence. Word got around that the man was an Old Higue. Rumour had it that he had sucked a baby in the nearby village of Nabaclis. After the family discovered that their child had been sucked, they journeyed to Dutch Guiana and obtained a ‘Portion’ which would aid them in trapping the blood sucker.

The ‘Portion’ was buried in their front

yard. This would serve two purposes; protect the home and catch the culprit. Unfortunately and unknown to them their dogs dug up the ‘Portion’ and destroyed it. With nothing to deter it, the Old Higue struck again. When the family realized what had taken place they hurried back to Dutch Guiana for help or

have been mingling undetected among them.

The blind, dumb, deaf, lame, old, young and dotish thronged the village to get the sweet vibes.

Suddenly as if possessed, the man began to talk and shout at the top of his voice. His first revelation was that there were at least seventy more Old Higues between Spencer

a refund.

“De Old Higue come again!” they complained.

“Sorry I can’t do anything. It’s the dog’s fault.” They were told.

They pleaded and begged until their consultant relented.

“Okay. I will let the Old Higue talk out his secret. Everyone will know that he is a blood sucker. Added to this, he will also reveal the names of any or all other Old Higues in the village.”

Now, the ‘talk out’ night happened to be the same night of the Sendall Park Clean-up.

What a fiasco that turned out to be.

Residents of the lower East Coast flocked to Victoria by any and all means. Donkey and horse carts, cycles, motor cycles, cars and pedestrians streamed into the small community. One look at the huge crowd left you in no doubt that even the dead must

Board and Kingston Street. This would roughly work out to one in every five homes.

Shock and horror permeated the night.

People were terrified, angry and out for blood. Before he could start calling names, the assault began. His house was hit by a barrage of stones, bottles, bricks and other handy objects. The sound of the sudden attack as the objects smashed against the roof, walls, doors and windows was nothing but spectacular. Many were doing it out of self preservation, because they did not want their names or the names of relatives disclosed.

Their crude attempt to shut him up and force him out of his refuge worked, but not as they expected. In the ensuing melee, the besieged man slipped through the back fence and fled. The bloodthirsty crowd surged forward and gave chase.

They pursued him onto the public road, closing fast. The man headed west, so did his

tormentors. Throughout that period in British Guiana, British troops were stationed in our country. One such group was stationed at Belfield and Public Road, at a club owned

by Escape Joyce. Thinking that the loud, angry crowd meant riot, they went swiftly into action and headed straight for the oncoming trouble.

By now the man was exhausted from the chase and constant assault of missiles. In desperation, he sought refuge in Mrs. Persaud’s yard, which is located next to what is now Guy oil Station. That was a big mistake, one he would forever regret.

Living in the same yard was Gwana Seed a big, strong Victorian.

He had recently become the dad of a nine-daysold baby. He and his girl, Julia Gouveia, were both pleased and proud parents.

Well, when the fugitive rushed into the yard, Gwana Seed recognized him immediately. The protective dad flew into violent action in order to protect his baby.

Before the angry crowd could get their hands on the man, Gwana snatched up a piece of flat iron and proceeded to beat the man ruthlessly. It was only the timely and firm intervention of the British soldiers that saved the life of the accused blood sucker.

The man - battered and bloody - and Gwana were both handed over to the police.

The accused was set free and Gwana was charged with assault and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Only the timely evidence of the British Army Captain prevented him from going to jail. Apparently the ‘good soldier’ saw the fugitive assaulting Gwana with successive punches “One! Two! One! Two! One! Two!” which triggered the attack by Gwana.

As for the fugitive (Old Higue), he was exiled from Victoria and his home at Lot 12 abandoned. Even his canoe was left to rot in the trench. The man moved to the safer environs of the city, and became the State Executioner.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Hello Everyone, I hope this week has treated you well.

As I mentioned last week, I would like to speak about coping strategies today. Why? Because every one of us has daily as well as long-term stressors. If you feel that you do not experience any kind of stress, please see my email below and tell me how you do it!

Stress comes from every angle in life. We have work stress, school stress, family and relationship stress, financial stress- just to name a few. We now have added stress in the upcoming weeks because of the holidays. We have to see family and others that we might not like; we have to buy presents for people that we might not want or afford to buy for; we have to serve food and drinks to people who never serve us.

How do we deal with this? Some people deal with it rather unhealthily – we scream at people, give up and take to our beds, use heavy amount of drugs/alcohol etc. Well, what if I told you there were healthy and productive ways to deal with this large amounts of stress? Would you even believe me? Have a read!

So, what is stress? It’s one of those words we use constantly but is actually difficult to define and describe. Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain caused by difficult or unusual circumstances. Stress severely impacts both our mental and physical health. Levels as well as reasons for stress differ between men and women. Studies show that men become more stressed when it comes to their careers while women become more stressed based on interpersonal relationships. I realise that sounds outdated and sexist but it’s a fact. I’d like to think it’s because women are just more natural caregivers and there is nothing wrong with that.

However, our ability to cope with stressors are exactly the same.

What are some simple ways to deal with stress?

Reduce your load – there is always so much to be done that we feel needs to be done right away. Try delegating, better time management and writing fixed and realistic schedules to follow.

Understand that making mistakes is normal and sometimes necessary – learn from them rather than resenting them. Find someone you can trust and confide in them. Finally and most importantly, develop and maintain healthy coping strategies. The worst part is stress is not only caused by negative events. A wedding, new job, re-location and even the birth of a child causes high stress levels. This is what makes coping skills so important.

WHAT IS COPING? Coping refers to our individual ability to deal with stressful situations. It is our beliefs, thoughts and actions that allow us to be honest with ourselves about what we feel and need. Heathy coping allows us to overcome obstacles, accept and deal with setbacks, be adaptive to any changes around us and be generally happier. We cannot always control what people say or do to upset us or what general situations arise. However, we do have complete control over its effects on us and how we deal with it.

Developing coping mechanisms is quite difficult as emotions that arise when we are upset are very powerful. They tend to cloud our judgement, decision making and even creative abilities- all very much needed to handle a stressful situation. While of course it is better to start developing healthy coping strategies early, it is never too late to learn them.

There are two major types of coping strategies – which ever one is used depends on the individual. The first is problem focused strategy where the individual focuses on the problem itself that may cause stress. For example, if a husband has to relocate (when he does not want to) as his wife received a promotion, he will focus on the problem itself- moving and how to cope with that. He will analyse the situation, what exactly he does not like about it and work on it. If he does not like that he has to leave his hobbies behind, he will try to find similar ones in his new location.

The second is emotion-focused strategy where the individual focuses on their emotions that the problem/stress has elicited. For example, if the aforementioned husband is sad, angry and resentful for this relocation, he will focus on strategies that handle his feelings of distress. He won’t avoid or deny his feelings, he will choose to do relaxation/breathing exercises; he will do the things that make him happy; he will talk to his wife or a professional.

I have always been partial to Emotion focused strategy as I am an emotional person. This means that at times, I let my

emotions guide me and get the better of me. I am also a firm believer in the saying “Life is 90% what happens to us and 10% how we react to it.”

Now, are all coping strategies helpful and good? No, there are many unhealthy coping methods that many of us use daily. Some are short –term and maladaptive which means they are successful in reducing stress for a short period of time but end up causing additional stress in the long run. The most common of this is heavy drug/alcohol use. How many times do we give or receive the phone call “I’ve had a bad day- let’s take a drink.” I can’t even count how many of these conversations I have been a part of but I do recognise that it’s unhealthy and counterproductive.

There is also making others feel badly about themselves, excessive working and avoidance, nail biting, over or under eating, isolation, self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

It might not be completely our fault as our coping methods depend on quite a few things – our biology, our personality and our social environment. As an example, some of us choose to drink when stressed as that is the social norm in Guyana. However, that doesn’t exactly make it right. A complete change can be started by one individual.

So, what are some examples of good coping skills?

These of course depend on the individual. What relaxes, calms or excites you may not work for many others. If you have never thought about things that may work for you, here is a list.

Try one or try them all! ► Exercise- any form- dancing, team sports, punching bags, bicycles. This is not about weight loss but rather releasing positive endorphins. ► Keep a feelings journal. Writing is so therapeutic. ► Educate yourself- read about everything! For fun, even. ► Become artistic – draw, paint, colour, create or simply listen to music . ► Watch light hearted movies/ T.V shows- we get enough drama from real life. ► Be social with the right people. Keep good and positive people around. ► Spend quality time with yourself. Really get to know and love who you are! ► Practise good self-care. This means taking the time to do things that make you feel good about yourself. This can be anything from reading to doing your nails/hair. When we are

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confident and feel good on the outside- we tend to also internalise these feelings. ► Try breathing techniques. ► When you have a lot to do, write to do lists to visualize productivity by ticking off what you have done. ► Create and stick to a budget every day. Monetary issues causes a lot of stress. ► Create a list of things you ‘want’ vs need’. This brings out appreciation. ► Build confidence, gratitude, positivity/ optimism. ► Set new and realistic goals for yourself. ► Volunteer! Gain a sense of purpose and satisfaction by helping others. ► Practise forgiveness. This is for you- not anyone else. ► Focus on your religious/ spirituality practises (if you have any) ► Learn to walk away. When you are overly stressed or angry – take some personal space. Unfortunately for us, problems do not just disappear. They will be there for us to tackle when we are ready to do so.

- Find someone you can trust and confide in them. It is okay if you feel you cannot cope on your own. Seeking professional help also counts as healthy coping. This helps you to become stronger (not weaker) when dealing with future stressors and challenging situations.

For which ever one you decide to try, make a note of whether it worked for you or it did not. If it didn’t, that’s okay- just try something else. If it does work, it takes much practise to make it a regular exercise. For example, if you’re used to taking a drink when you are stressed but are now trying to get exercise instead, it will take weeks of practising for that to become natural. Keep it up!

Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Or come in to see me at: Georgetown Public Hospital: Psychiatric Department: Monday- Friday – 8am- 12pm Woodlands Hospital: Outpatient Department Drug and Alcohol group meetings - Mondays 4:15 Good mental health group meetings- Wednesdays 4:15 Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

How to start your own

LAST week I wrote about the importance of collecting art and why everyone should start as soon as they’re financially able. This week I wanted to provide a few tips on how to start the collection process for those who might be interested, but feel a bit overwhelmed or intimidated by the idea. Rest assured that anyone could start collecting art as long as they are committed to doing the necessary research and they understand that a collection doesn’t happen overnight.

First of all, it’s important to understand the fundamental difference between casually buying art and collecting art. The casual buyer acts on impulse, meaning that there isn’t really any serious consideration given to the purchase besides their initial emotional connection/ response to the artwork in question. That person isn’t thinking about the overall narrative of their collection or even assessing how that purchase would fit in with their existing works of art. These, however, are all things the serious collector must take into consideration. The serious collector understands that “the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.”

With the Christmas season upon us, it’s a great time to buy art, as most artists would’ve reduced prices in their end-of-year studio sales. What’s even better is that Christmas bonus you earned could be put towards making a deposit on that work of art you’ve wanted for a while now. You’ll also most likely have a wider range of options to choose from, as the artist would’ve been making work all year long. Although as an artist I would obviously encourage everyone to buy art year round, as a modest collector myself I understand the limitations of working within a budget. And so whenever someone asks me about the best time of the year to buy art I would always say December. The collector has more spending power and the artist is trying to clear out the studio to make room for new works in the new year. Everyone walks away a winner.

START WITH WHAT YOU LIKE As I mentioned in the last article, a good place to start is with what you like. This would provide a solid enough foundation for you to gradually build your fine art collection. Think about what you would like your collection to communicate to viewers. Understand that you’re not merely a collector. Your role, in many ways, mirrors that of the artist. While they’re using their own art to communicate a message to the viewer, you’re using their art together with works from other artists to make an even greater statement about something that is dear to you.

Whether you choose to collect landscape paintings from the 60s and 70s, contemporary abstract portraits or indigenous pottery, the choice is yours and yours alone to make. Just

ensure that the theme is something you can envision yourself still being passionate about years later and that there is room for expansion.

DO YOUR RESEARCH Now that you’ve figured out the general aesthetic of the art you’re hoping to collect, what next? What follows is crucial to your acquisition process. At this point you should commit to spending a significant amount of time doing some research (yes, it’s that serious). If you’re very new to art then you should familiarize yourself with the art terms, styles, techniques etc. You don’t want to be “that person” who doesn’t know head from tail about anything.

Ask around about local art practitioners. Most of us are really not that hard to find. Check their websites, social media accounts, or any platform that would allow you to see the work they’re producing. Before you consider collecting their work, it’s important to understand what fuels their productions. Check for artists' statements or any text that serves to give the viewer a better understanding of what the artist is trying to communicate, what inspired the work and a general idea of how the work was intended to be read.

VISIT ART EXHIBITIONS It should go without saying that if you’re looking to

collect art then visiting art exhibitions should be a priority in your schedule. It’s always a good idea to go early so that you can preview the exhibition before other collectors start scooping up pieces that you might’ve had your eyes on. Visiting art exhibitions is also a great way to meet creative practitioners, writers, curators and other collectors who could give you some helpful tips about collecting art and even put you on to emerging artists whose works you should consider.

ASK QUESTIONS You could never ask too many questions and very rarely could you ask stupid questions. If you’re considering adding a work of art to your collection, then in addition to asking about the price you should also ask about framing (if the piece is unframed), shipping (if you are overseas) and delivery (if you are local). You should also ask about previous owners if you’re not buying directly from an artist and about the history of the piece (if it won any awards or was shown in major exhibitions as these can increase it’s value). Be sure to ask if the piece is an original or a print and if they intend to make prints of the piece in question. This is especially important if you want the pieces in your collection to have as much value as possible in the future.

MAKE ROOM AND ORGANIZE ACCORDINGLY It’s important to consider the space that will house your collection. The last thing you want is to have a huge collection locked away in your garage. In the more modern parts of the world, collectors have the option of housing parts of their collection in temperature controlled storage bonds. While I doubt we have this option here in Guyana, it wouldn’t hurt to ask the relevant persons a question or two. Just remember that the unit must be temperature controlled as extreme heat or cold can severely damage your art. But for those of us who don’t have that option, it is crucial that you study the available wall space in order to make the most of it. You may have to rearrange some items for a better fit whenever you make a significant addition to your collection, so be prepared to put in some muscle work! You will also find that some works of art “speak” to others much more effectively when arranged in a particular manner, so pay close attention to how the works relate to each other.

And finally, keep everything. Receipts, documents, certificates of authenticity or anything that proves you are the owner of the work of art should be held on to for obvious reasons.

With that said, I hope I was able to provide some useful tips on how to get your collection started. All the best on your journey as a collector!

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

The Sparkle Continues GLITTER can be a messy situation, and may create another problem. Glitter bombs and their nuclear fallout can end up on the cheeks, in the crease of the under-eye, on the nose, and everywhere.

It's also very difficult to remove, especially if you try

to dust it off, only to find it creeping up again next week on some part of your skin's surface.

The best ways to avoid or lessen the fallout, and all collusions of glitter's nuclear warheads, you'll need some ingredients and products to help counter the intensity of the debris. ● Eye Shadow Guard: An eye shadow guard is a tissue textured product made to fit directly under the eye. It captures fallout from under the eye, which helps with an easy clean up. ● Scotch Tape: It does the same work as an eye shadow guard, obviously! However the Scotch takes it up a notch.

It can remove stubborn excessive glitter from skin.

Using the press-and-pull notion, apply pressure on tape with its adhesive side on the desired area, then gently peel tape away from skin. Repeat as many times as needed. ● Body Oils: Body oils are

a great mixing medium for covering large quantities of body surfaces. ● Glitter glues: believe it or leave it, but there are specific products on the market designed for glitter eye and lip makeup. Someone has the glitter-obsessed in mind.

Those products are similar

to eye primers, and can be considered primers, however they possess an advanced adhesive quality, are often waterproof, and last longer. ● Petroleum jelly: Another product to help hold glitter in place. ● Water-based mixing mediums: Whenever dealing with the delicate eye area, never use any product that's alcohol-based. Stick with the water-based mixing mediums to apply more advanced looks as glitter liner, glitter decals, and glitter designs.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT GLITTERS When purchasing glitter, always, always, always choose cosmetic grade glitter, especially for the face. It may not be as easy to remove glitter that's cosmetic grade.

However, it's less abrasive and less irritable to sensitive skin. Cosmetic grade glitters are usually found among reputable brands:

Mary Kay, MUE, MAC, Eye Like Makeup by Kerry, Sugarpill and others. Remember to read the labels of your products, and ensure that it's cosmetic grade glitter or shimmer before applying.

You don't want to scratch your corneas with a knockoff craft product, which eventually causes severe damage to the delicate eye area.

GO BEYOND GOLD Glitters come in many shades, tones, and hues. The right shade matters if you want to sparkle. It's better to choose bright hues, multicoloured and prismatic shades, mirroring chrome metallics blend well with any eyeshadow shade.

If you're adventurous you can even try mixing your glitters or matching them with eyeshadow tones of a different spectrum. Maybe a bold royal blue paired with a silver to give a holographic effect. Be unique and allow your individuality to shine through. It's always best to test your tones, and once you gravitate towards an image

of your liking, it's best to choose that one. You can't fool Mother Nature, and though being expressive might seem childish, impish or immature, kids aren't easily tricked. Channel your inner child, free yourself and wear as much glitter as you want.

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BE-YOU-TIFUL Frost your fabulous look this season, and don't be afraid of the glam! Glitter makeup and shimmery shades are great ways to amp up any holiday look. It exudes your luminaries and captures the star within you. Be true to yourself, and be radiant inside and out.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

E.R. Braithwaite; Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

my mentor and friend

By Francis Quamina Farrier

Former World War Two Military Officer, Educator, Author and Diplomat, E.R. Braithwaite, has been a Mentor and friend of mine for over fifty years. We met when he was on his very first visit to Guyana, after gaining international acclaim with his first published book, "To Sir, With Love."

Our meeting came about when, as a rising star at the Theatre Guild of Guyana, I produced a Cultural Show, at which he was the Special Honoured Guest. He enjoyed the show very much and invited me to meet with him later. From thereon, we became very good friends, and he mentored me as a young upcoming Cultural person. One of the things he insisted that I do, is always to make my writing universally understandable. Never to produce sub-standard material.

Sometime after our initial meeting, he surprised me with an offer. "Would you like to go to Canada and pursue a Study Course in Theatre and Journalism?" he asked me.

That was an offer I just could not refuse. So off I went to the Banff School of Fine Arts, the University of Alberta, Canada.

It was an intensive Summer course, in 1969, and all paid for by E.R. Braithwaite, air fare and all. I have to say that what I learnt during that course, has stood me in very good stead, ever since.

Over the decades, and especially when he served as Guyana's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, we kept in touch by letter. We also saw each other whenever I visited New York, or when he visited Guyana. On one occasion, he visited me at my Robb Street, Georgetown home. The prtincipal purpose was to have the opportunity to taste my wife, Patricia's, cooking. He loved it, because it was genuine Guyanese cuisine. We also were in each other's company while I was studying at the Middlesex University in London, England.

And on every occasion, he would give me sound advice about my hopes and dreams. I know, as a matter of fact, that my view of people must never be about what power or money they have, and I can clearly recall his calm response to a Guyanese who wanted to know how rich he was. "That doesn't matter" he respectfully responded. "It's what I can do to make the lives of others better. That is what it's all about."

When "Ted", (that's what close friends called him), migrated from England to the USA, we remained in touch. I visited him at his Manhattan, New York City apartment on a few occasions. On one occasion, he graciously hosted a Guyanese friend of mine, Teacher, Poet and Songwriter, Basil Rodrigues, who hailed from the Moruca, and who was visiting New York for the very first time. As fellow educators, they had much to chat about.

Ted wanted to know more about the Education System in the Rupununi where "Teacher Basil" was functioning for many years.

In more recent years.

Braithwaite relocated to Washington, DC, where he was a Professor at Howard University. During those more recent years we continued to keep in touch. I need not say that we were always happy to be in each other's company.

So when his 100th Birthday was approaching, I asked his permission to approach the Guyana Government to have him as their Guest, in the Land of his birth. Not only was E.R. Braithwaite a guest of the Guyana Government, but he was the Patron of the Inter-Guiana Games that year, 2012.

During what turned out to be his last visit to Guyana, he was presented with the National Award of the Cacique Crown Of Honour (CCH).

The presentation was made by

XIII President Donald Ramotar, at the Presidential Secretariat in Georgetown. "Sir" was also the Special Guest of Honour at a staging of "To Sir, With Love A Guyanese Version" by Mosa Telford at the National Cultural Centre. Before the play began, a video message by Academy Award Winning Hollywood actor, Sidney Poitier, who played the role of Braithwaite, in the Film version of "To Sir, With Love", was played on a large screen inside the National Cultural Centre.

My most recent meeting with my Mentor and Friend, Dr. Eustace Ricardo Braithwaite, CCH, was on Thursday July 21, 2016. It was at his Washington, DC apartment. We left the apartment together and were driven to the National Mall. I was going to the nearby Museum of the American Indian. As I got out of the car, I waved him "good-bye". That turned out to be by final good-bye to my Mentor and Friend, E.R. Braithwaite.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Cultural practices for coconut PRIOR to 2007, many coconut farms in the Caribbean were left abandoned for several years because of negative marketing and high incidents of pests and diseas-

es. Recently, due to increased market demand for coconut products, many farmers are desperately trying to rehabilitate their farms and/or cultivate new areas.

In these efforts, they require improved varieties and knowledge of good agricultural practices and integrated pest management.

Cultural practices are necessary for the coconut plant to realize its optimum potential in terms of production and productivity.

Coconut palms can grow in various environments, although certain ecological conditions limit their growth. Several agro-climatic factors affect productivity, including altitude, rainfall, temperature, relative humidity, wind, solar radiation, day length and soil type, including its physical and chemical properties.

Altitude affects coconut production and oil content: higher the elevation, the lower the temperature will be. Optimum altitudes

satisfactorily at temperatures less than 18°C. Regions that are subject to frequent stormy conditions and hurricanes are not suitable for growing the coconut palm.

Dwarf palms are generally less resistant than the Tall ones to strong winds, because of the former’s shallower root system. Trees are most at risk from uprooting at 3 – 5 years old, since the root system is less well-developed than the above-ground biomass.

Coconut is grown under different soil types, such as loamy, lateritic, coastal sandy, alluvial, clayey and reclaimed soils of marshy lowlands. The ideal soil conditions for better growth and performance of the palm are loose well-drained soils about 50 - 100cm deep, with good water-holding

are below 400m at latitudes between 30° N and 30° S, but coconut plants can grow well up to an elevation of 900m at this same range of latitudes. Trees that grow at elevations above 500m produce a thin endosperm and low oil.

Rainfall distribution also plays a key role in determining coconut growth and production. Rainfall should be at least 130mm per month. Coconut palms thrive well under an evenly distributed annual rainfall ranging from 1,000mm to 3,000 mm. A suitable annual rainfall ranges from 1200 to 2500 mm. As the tree stores little moisture and has no tap roots, it is not suited for regions with long and pronounced dry spells, during which the water table is considerably reduced. A water table that is too high and remains stagnant over long periods is also harmful to the palm. When rainfall drops below 1,000mm per year or distribution is uneven, coconuts can grow successfully only when irrigated.

For optimum growth and maximum yield, the mean annual temperature should be approximately 27°C with a diurnal variation of 6°C to 7°C and a relative humidity at 80 - 90%. An average ambient temperature of 27°C is good (less than 20°C and more than 34°C is not suitable). When the average monthly minimum temperature is less than 18°C, growth is reduced and female flowers abort. However, some varieties may produce

capacity, a pH ranging of 5.2 - 8.0, presence of water table within 3m, and absence of rock or any hard substratum within 2m of the surface. Production is limited by shallow and compacted soils, heavy clays, waterlogging and drought.

Site layout, land preparation and planting are influenced by the choice of the farming system to be employed, such as monoculture, intercropping, or mixed farming. Ideally, the land should be completely cleared, ensuring minimal disturbance of the topsoil layer. Compacted soils should be ploughed and rotovated to provide adequate drainage.

Shallow soils with underlying hard rock, low-lying areas subject to water stagnation and clayey soils are to be avoided. Raised, cambered beds should be established in areas prone to waterlogging, but movement of subsoil unto the top of the cambered beds can provide an unsuitable chemical environment.

Field borders should be established along with fence lines, access roads, bridges, crossings, main drains, and channels, ponds or wells for irrigation and other infrastructure. Proper supply of moisture through irrigation should be ensured before planting. Also, planting should coincide with the onset of rainfall.

The selection of the appropriate planting system is influenced by varieties, type of farming system (monocrop or intercrop), climatic and soil conditions.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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SCORES of children in the Lethem area were last weekend feted by the owners of Touchdown Bar & Lounge, situated at Airport Road, Lethem.

According to proprietor Vishal Mohan, who resides in Toronto and is also the head of Mohan Contracting Guyana Inc in Canada, his wife Reema, son Kisan and business partner Carl Methuram were on hand to give out the goodies to the appreciative parents and children.

Mohan pointed out that the children also enjoyed playing on the trampoline, and were all given free lunches, Christmas gifts and bags from Santa Claus.

Mohan, who was born at Cotton Tree Village, West Coast Berbice, migrated to Canada in 1982, but has never forgotten his roots.

According to Mohan, he has been an established businessman for more than ten years. “I have established a successful

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

s id k m e th e L to r e e h Xmas c

business in the security industry, which is still growing,” he said.

Being an industrious individual, Mohan wasn’t content to just remain in the security business in Canada, but was bent on making another dream a success, hence the establishment of the 747 Bar & Lounge.

“I saw a possible way forward. I always wanted to provide Guyana with an upscale bar (of the type) that you would find in Canada. Georgetown has a few, but Lethem doesn’t have any, so (I thought) why not bring that awesome party experience to the residents of Lethem?”

The 747 Touchdown Bar & Lounge currently employs a staff of seven, each playing an important role in the success

of the establishment. And according to Mohan, the feedback from Lethem residents has been phenomenal.

“It’s a new and fresh experience to them, and they have embraced us with open arms. And for us, their satisfaction is our top priority. We have come a long way in a short time, but the journey has now begun, and we have thought it best to give back to the community.”

Vishal Mohan is expressing sincere thanks to everyone who has been supporting the upscale entity and also ensuring his life-long dream becomes a reality. Lethem lies on the Takutu River, which forms the border with Brazil. It is opposite the Brazilian town of Bonfim, and is the main commercial centre of the Rupununi savannah.

Another section of the kids about to collect their gifts

Several children waiting to receive their goodies

Mohan’s son Kishan assisted Santa Claus in handing out the gifts

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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Digicel #Gifted Kids Christmas Cheers Alpha Children’s Home and a special treat is in store for the kids in the Kingston community which is home to Digicel.

This initiative will be spread across the Caribbean and Central America in all of Digicel’s 32 markets. Through the Gifted Kids – Christmas Cheer, Digicel’s employees will bring the love and joy of the festive season to kids by feting and treating them

CENTRAL to their #GetGifted campaign is giving back to children across the country with the Gifted Kids initiative. During the month of December, Digicel has been visiting several Special Needs schools and institutions to spread Christmas Cheer.

Digicel kicked off their #GiftedKids Christmas Cheer on December 8th with a visit to the Jasso Nursery and Tuschen Deaf Academy on the West Coast of Demerara and East Bank Essequibo respectively. They took Christmas goodies which Santa and the staff of Digicel shared with the children. On December 9 and 14 they visited the Linden Resource Unit for the Blind and David Rose Special School to share more Christmas Cheer. Digicel will continue their #GiftedKids

Christmas Cheers throughout the month of December with visits to St. John’s Bosco Boys Oprhange, The Hararuni Girls home,

to toys and a host of entertaining activities.

“This holiday, it’s all about playing with the notion of being gifted – from being gifted by Usain Bolt’s Christmas song to gifting our customers with better products and services or gifting kids with the most memorable Christmas” –said Jacqueline James, Head of Marketing for Digicel Guyana.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

New Year’s Eve ...is a night of sophistication THE time when men and women don their most elegantly fashionable gear and appear more graceful than ever!

On December 31 this year ladies and gentlemen will grace affairs, from red carpet dinners to cocktail receptions and someone is shopping for something outstanding that will transfigure them before the eyes of their partner, family, friends and patrons of a similar affair.

While many search the racks of upscale boutiques, some

would never want to look across the room and see their duplicate other, the same dress upon another woman.

So, this week Pepperpot Magazine brings a selection of unique creations from Guyana’s fashion icon Michelle Cole, which can be ordered on Facebook.com/colefacts.

Next week we will bring you additional fashions from two other Guyanese designers – fashions for men, and fashions for women!

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

The jubilee drama festival

By Francis Quamina Farrier

hard viewing, analyzing, and then deciding on the merits of each presentation, many times late into the night, and making their decisions, as to which will go forward into the finals. And finally, those judges had the arduous task of deciding who will be awarded the various prizes up for grabs, including the lucrative monetary

MAYBE we should refer to tonight's Show at the National Cultural Centre, as "The Night of the Stars". This is the Award Ceremony of this Jubilee Year National Drama Festival, which takes place tonight, after weeks of Preliminary and Finals Sessions at the National Cultural Centre, the Theatre Guild Playhouse and other rural and hinterland venues.

It is the culmination of weeks and months of hard work by all involved. The young playwrights who wrote new plays; The directors who had to fashion both the new and older plays into worthy stage productions, to be d blows out a gun an adjudicated by an A bride pulls ridegroom, and the B away the gay experienced panel of auds pl ap audience professional Drama Judges.

The actors who prizes, which will be worked so hard learn- ing their lines and presented at tonight's Jubilee rehearsing and bringing their characters to Year Awards Ceremony. life, to impress both judges and audiences, Because of past misinon the various stages, in Georgetown and formation, Chief Judge, Al elsewhere. The judges who worked really Creighton, informed the Au-

Night of the Stars

dience at the opening night of the finals, on Sunday November 20, 2016, that this new series of National Drama Festivals, commenced in 2012, and that there were previous National Drama Festivals in past times. It is not widely known that there were National Drama Festivals here in British Guiana, way back in the colonial era. There were also the Sugar Estates Drama

Another of th e scenes in so shocking suicide me of the play s

Festivals, which were held every other year.

I should also mention that I won Best Actor at the 1965 National Drama Festival, playing the Chorus in the play ANTIGONE, by the French playwright, Jean Anouilh.

At that 1965 National Drama Festival, a group from Buxton won the Best Play prize in the Youth category with the play "The Promised Land" by Sydney King (Eusi Kwayana). It would also be appropriate for me to mention that Yvonne Harewood-Benn, then a teacher at the Watooka Nursery School in Linden, won Best Supporting Actress a few years later, at a National Drama Festival. That was before she became a Minister of Government and very influential in the day-to-day operations of the Guyana Chronicle.

While there were some great productions this year, with very inspirational subjects at this year's National Drama Festival, there was a very worrying element for many who attended the various sessions, at the National Cultural Centre. Many paTurn to page XXVI ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

XXI

A Trip up the

Essequibo River

By Vishani Ragobeer AS A PART of the Tourism Month celebrations in Guyana for the month of November, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) treated a few media personnel to trips within Guyana in an attempt to promote DESTINATION GUYANA. So, in exchange for a day-long trip up the Essequibo River, where I visited Old Dutch forts, a pretty beach, a mining town, a fancy resort, and a really cool but dangerous waterfall, here I am, recounting my virgin travel experience to you.

In the beginning, I was seated in a bus with about 12 other random people, all excited for the trip while I had absolutely no clue where I was going except that I was going on a tour “up the Essequibo River”, and that I might be visiting Fort Island and Fort Kyk-over-al.

We travelled over to West Demerara, and here I was expecting to arrive at the Parika stelling but the driver decided to make a detour and we ended up at ‘Roed- en- Rust’.

Guess who was unaware that there was even such a place, let alone be outfitted with its own stelling and a fleet of ‘jet boats’ (bigger, enclosed speedboats).

When I got into the jet boat, our captain and tour guide, Vincent, said that our first stop would be at Fort Island, which was just 15 minutes away. During this time, he elaborated that the Essequibo accommodates more that 300 islands and spans about 630 miles in length. He also explained that the first island that we passed was Hog Island and that was the largest island in the Essequibo River- large enough to encompass Barbados a few times. Pretty cool, right? ● FORT ISLAND: When Fort Island was in sight, I immediately recognized the claybrick structure as Fort Zeelandia and its cannons overlooking the river. As a Social Studies and Caribbean History student, I read about Fort Island and Fort Zeelandia, but this place was so much more than I expected.

First of all, the island wasn’t just a tourist attraction, it was a community filled with people happily residing here unbothered by the busy city life. There were even special facilities here, such as a health centre, a

Fellow tourists gather at the Baracari Waterfalls

The 1744 Fort Zeelandia

My short-lived experience on the beach ended with a few other tourists playing hop-scotch on the beach while a few of us scribbled our names in the sand. ● BARTICA: I left Saxacalli not knowing where I was heading to next. Now imagine my surprise when I found out that I was heading to Bartica. That’s right- the little city girl heading to the ‘Gateway of the Interior’.

Upon arrival at the Bartica stelling, Vincent told us that due to our schedule, we could only spend about 30 minutes here.

Naturally, I walked around the area immediately after the stelling, taking photos Arrival at the busy Bartica stelling

nursery and primary school, and more houses than I ever imagined- all catering for the population of about 100.

On the path to Fort Zeelandia, I got insight about living life on this island when I saw the daughter of the island’s medic cutting a sugar-cane and a young man and his father fishing in the trenches.

At Fort Zeelandia itself, however, I busied myself with taking lots of photos and I decided to ‘explore’ the fort. Inside the fort, there were holes which I assumed were once peepholes for spotting oncoming enemy ships and spaces to position the cannons to attack these enemy ships. It was pretty cool imagining a battle way back then, around 1744, when this fort was constructed, but I didn’t have too much time to entertain my imagination thoughts because the pungent smell of bat guano was getting to me.

On the opposite side of the island was the Court of Policy, which was once a facility that sold slaves, a court and a church. Now it has been transformed into a Dutch historical museum, and has three tombs of two Dutch officials and an infant.

GTA President Indranauth Haralsingh,who accompanied us on this trip, highlighted that about 80- 90 persons visited the island every Saturday and Sunday as a part of the Tourism Month activities. ● SAXACALLI BEACH: After we left Fort Island, I found myself

surrounded by an endless amount of water spotted with the green shades of the many islands. Vincent told us that we would be stopping at Saxacalli Beach next to stretch our legs for a bit.

Saxacalli is actually an Arawak settlement but the beach is frequented because of its seclusion and breath-taking beauty. I say beauty as a vast understatement because the view was just so much more. Imagine the murky waters of the Essequibo river washing the mildly golden sand of the beach and then the surrounding lush green trees with a single yellow- flowered tree in their midst.

and observing the newly-established ‘town’.

I guess the GTA president had other plans for us media folk however; plans that would soon cost us.

He took us to ‘Palm Spring’ Hotel in Bartica, because this hotel had copped the award for Tourism Investment at the 2016 Tourism Awards Ceremony which was held just the night before my trip.

While at Palm Spring, we decided to speak with the owner, Ramcharan BoodTurn to page XXII ►►►

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hoo, and his reputed wife, Rehana Rahim and peruse the entire facility. We were also refreshed with a few light beverages.

Alas! 30 minutes at Bartica became about an hour, and soon calls from our boatmates were made demanding our return.

Subtly put, when we arrived back at our boat, we were rebuked for our tardiness. ● ARUWAI: Honestly, I feel the only reason we were told off for being tardy back in Bartica was that it meant less time at Aruwai. Yes, I said Aruwai.

Guess who also had no clue they were going to end up at Aruwai for lunch? Surprise! It was me!

We had our lunch and we were allowed to use the pools. But you know, since I had no clue I was gonna be here, I didn’t pack extra clothes. So while most people were off enjoying themselves in and around the pool, I spent my time exploring the resort.

I managed to climb up to the highest corridor (truthfully, I don’t know if I was allowed to do this) and I just admired the view. Aruwai took up an entire island and was surrounded by other islands, but perhaps the most interesting part of being here was the weather.

The mid-afternoon sun was beating down, but somehow the rain was also pouring. I’ve seen this happen before, but here it was happening so often at short intervals. It was… magical? ● BARACARI: We left Aruwai and had one last stop to make. We were visiting Baracari, a waterfall I never knew existed, but one I will never forget. Did I mention that both Aruwai and Baracari were southwest of Bartica and were located at the confluence of the Cuyuni, Mazaruni and Essequibo rivers?

Baracari happened to be one of the islands across from Aruwai, but to get to the waterfall a lot of intensive trekking had to be done.

A man and his son fishing in a trench on Fort Island

Playing hop-scotch on Saxacalli Beach

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016 The scenic Saxacalli beach

There was a short uphill climb that was required before arriving at a stream.

For someone susceptible to being clumsy, crossing this stream was a Herculean task because it required exceptional talent to skip across a few wet rocks in the stream without falling. Luckily for me, I didn’t fall… at least not as yet.

After few more minutes of trekking in a marshy area, however, I finally heard the sound of cascading water- the waterfall.

Turns out the cascading water and I had something in common… we were both fond of falling. Let me explain.

When I arrived at the falls, I noticed it was a pretty short falls, about 10/15 feet in height, and everyone was rushing to get as close to the falls as possible to take out their photos. But I was always an ambitious youth, so I decided to climb to the top of the falls (there was a concrete staircase to the right of the falls).

But no, my ambition did not stop there.

I decided to step over onto the top of the falls itself (mind you, the rain was falling at this point) but to get there I had to leap over some wet rocks. Here I believe I learned that you must never jump across wet rocks covered in running water while

the rain is falling. Why? Because the rain and the water wouldn’t be the only things falling.

With a bruised knee, I left Baracari and we all headed back to Roed-en-Rust. I’d like to end by saying that we had an uneventful boat-ride back, but no boating trip would be complete without a little mal-functioning.

About 10 minutes after we left Baracari, Vincent stopped the jetboat and went to the back to inspect the engines. I wasn’t the least bit worried, until Vincent asked his helper for a ‘spanner ’and he replied by saying that they didn’t have one. I got a little worried here, but I didn’t let it show. Soon enough, our boat was fully functional again, and we journeyed back to Roed-en-Rust.

On this journey back, many persons slept away because of the overwhelming experience of visiting Guyana in just one day, while others found it difficult to control their bladder motions, but we all made it back safe and sound and the rest is history.

This trip up the Essequibo opened my eyes to the raw beauty of my country and its untapped potential. Permit me to say that although I haven’t travelled many places, there is one thing I can attest toGUYANA NICE BAD!

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

First Lady hosts Senior Citizens Luncheon ‒ hopes for it to become a State House tradition

All smiles as they await the treat Real close friends

Awaiting the 'goodies'

FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra, Granger Friday honoured over 200 senior citizens across Guyana at a Luncheon and gift distribution event on the lawns of State House, the second such event since the current administration took office.

In her remarks to the women, Mrs. Granger expressed how heartened she was to be hosting the event for the second time around. “I think we could do this as a tradition; bring seniors from homes in and around Georgetown. I am happy that I could do a little bit to help them to enjoy the Christmas season… I always think we must honour our seniors, who have given so much and have worked so hard. So this is in honour of them and I’m very happy to be able to do something like this. I hope it becomes a State House tradition long after I am Turn to page XXIV ►►►

First Lady cracks a joke

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gone from here,” Mrs. Granger said.

The First Lady further thanked the staff of the Ministry of the Presidency, the Guyana Defence Force and the staff of Office of the First Lady, for their contribution towards the organising of the successful event.

The attendees, who all seemed in high spirits, spoke highly of the First Lady and her passion for assisting senior citizens across Guyana. According to Ms. Leila Prashad and Ms. June-ann DaSilva, who proudly represented the Holy Family Homestead on Vlissengen Road, they are appreciative of the initiative, since the First Lady not only places

her focus on children but also on the elderly.

Ms. Walterine Cox, Ms. Claudette Garndison and Ms. Florence Joe, members of the Bachelor Adventure’s Wesleyan Church were filled with words of excitement and commended Mrs. Granger for once again bringing them out of their comfort zones to enjoy the luncheon.

Senior citizens from Regions, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10 braved the weather to attend the luncheon. Organisations represented included the Salvation Army, Bachelors Adventure Wesleyan Church, Dharm Shala, New Amsterdam, Holy Family Homestead, St. Joseph Home – Ladies of Charity, the Lutheran Church and The Palms.

Making sure everything is all right

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Aries The focus shifts from outside to inside as you wind down from a fast-paced weekend. The Moon steps into industrious Virgo today, and you are busy meeting obligations rather than putting on a show. Although you understand that everyone is preoccupied with their own concerns, it's annoying when your accomplishments aren't recognized. Don't let a lack of praise darken your day. However, an evening connection between dreamy Neptune and the inspirational Sagittarius Sun gives you a cosmic permission slip to escape to fantasyland after your work is don Taurus The saturation setting on life seems to have been turned down so everything appears in muted tones. Although it's not quite as cheery as you might prefer for the holiday season, it's a welcome change of pace when the Moon moves into fellow earth sign, virtuous Virgo. Tackling practical chores like meal prep, list making, and gift wrapping before the week starts makes the tasks more enjoyable. Do your busy work earlier in the day, because tonight you're going to want to lose yourself in a captivating book or movie and cosy in with the ones you love.

Gemini The switch from outbound energy to inbound energy sets the scene today. Bring your ideas home and opt for a quiet mix of rest and work. You may be slightly irritated if no one immediately compliments your sparkly decorations or delicious cookies, but at the end of the day all your effort won't go unnoticed. Thankfully, a whimsical Sun-Neptune connection stimulates your creativity and offers a spiritual respite right when you need it most.

Cancer Time is ticking and you know it is wise to turn your attention to your never-ending todo list. As the holiday season unfurls, there are plenty of details to keep you hopping, so let the meticulous Virgo Moon facilitate some planning in your downtime. Don't take it personally if someone is clueless to the amount of work you're putting in -- do it for your own joyful satisfaction, instead. Others are probably trying to tackle just as much, if not more than you. Attacking your goals in bite-size pieces allows you to savour the true message of the season.

Leo There's somewhat of an energetic letdown from the weekend high as you pivot your focus to your finances and immediate goals. Sorting out your holiday budget is much easier with the help of the discerning Virgo Moon's presence in your 2nd House of Money. Attending to fiscal matters may not be your typical fun activity for a Sunday afternoon, but don't let the numbers drag you down. Finish your financial due diligence early and there will still be time for a peaceful interlude tonight before another busy week begins.

Virgo It's almost like the cosmic music has changed to something that better suits your natural rhythm. As the evocative Moon moves into your conscientious sign, you're able to hit the proverbial reset button and put all your personal affairs in order before the weekend is over. Nevertheless, it's prudent to accomplish as much as possible before nightfall. The surreal Neptune-Sun connection lends itself more to whimsy and less to practicality, making it a perfect night for dreaming your way to sleep.

Libra The pace slows today as rest and self-reflection become top priority. The perceptive Virgo Moon slips into your 12th House of Secrets, helping you to clean out the cobwebs that have gathered in your subconscious mind over the past month. Take stock of where your dreams lose touch with reality and visualize a path joining the two worlds. Make the most of the enchanting magic of an otherworldly Sun-Neptune connection by letting your imagination colour in the details of your future.

Scorpio You're walking on the path of purpose since your energy is aligned with your goals and ambitions; but today you are being asked to utilize a more focused and practical approach. You have your checklist in hand and a clear idea of where you want to be in the future, but what direction will you take to get there? The methodical Virgo Moon can help you build a staircase to your destiny by breaking down spiritual goals into actionable steps. Dreams don't work unless you do.

Sagittarius Whether you like it or not, details exist for a reason and it's important to examine them on a regular basis. The precise Virgo Moon calls your attention to the smaller pieces of the puzzle today, helping you sort through them to find the information you need without cluttering your mind unnecessarily. Your specialty may be envisioning the bigger picture, but you can't ignore the logistics of creating it. The more you learn, the more you grow.

Capricorn Your focus shifts to a plethora of practical considerations now that the fun of the weekend is wrapping up. The Moon's entry into fellow earth sign Virgo highlights your 9th House of Travel, making this the perfect time to finalize holiday plans. However, not all travel is physical, and you may find yourself embarking on an excursion through your vivid imagination when an enchanting Neptune-Sun contact blurs the line between fiction and fact. Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote, "A single dream is more powerful than a thousand realities."

Aquarius The high-energy weekend is winding down and your thoughts move from personal affairs of the heart to material concerns. The pragmatic Virgo Moon brings up the topic of "yours, mine and ours," so try to keep your facts straight as you sort out the details. This relationship work can be tedious and doesn't necessarily evoke fanfare, but it's worth it to iron out the little things now so they don't tangle you up later. Talk more, stress less.

Pisces There is a distinct change in the air as you begin to reconsider how you can best support those closest to you. The dutiful Virgo Moon's natural inclination is to help and serve; Luna's shining presence in your 7th House of Relationships encourages you to be more conscientious of the needs of others. However, it is best to give freely without expectation if you truly want to receive anything of value in return.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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trons were very alarmed and shocked at the level of violence in many of the plays. Domestic Violence with no salvation on the horizon. Senseless shootings without a plausible cause. The sex act simulated with vigorous abandonment.

Rapes and Suicides played out with raw reality and without any hope for the victims. For example, in none of those plays which had so much of the dark underbelly of our society, was any reference made to the Suicide HotLine, and other organisations which are a part of our society, and working so hard to reduce the incidents of suicide, which are so rampant in Guyana, at this time.

Let me give you the plot of one of the plays I am referring to. An Indian husband and father, along with his Chinese wife and mother of two teens, relocate from Bartica to Georgetown. Before the action of the play hardly gets underway, the teenage daughter is raped at her new school.

The rape is organized by some of the other female students, who brought their stud boyfriends to carry out the brutal attack; all played out, even with pre-teens in the audience.

The teenage son becomes involved with narcotics, and ends up at the New Opportunity Corps Correctional Centre.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Then as the plot of that play develops, the audience is informed that the father has an outside woman, and Raw, brutal domestic violence played out on stage to a laughing the wife has an outside man. All hell breaks loose, and audience a family goes tumbling down into a bottomless abyss; the quintessential Dysfunctional Guyanese Family on display, without any hope of salvation. The play ends with the depressed teenage daughter, putting a gun to her head, and blowing out her brain. Where she got the gun from is still a mystery to many in the audience that night. As she falls to the floor, the lights go out and the audience, including some mature women, go in rapturous laughter and applause.

Many of those who attended the sessions at this year's National Drama Festival, expressed concern at the preponderance of violence in so many of the plays, with many instances when there was the use of a gun. In one of the plays, a bride who is about to exchange marriage vows, is shocked when a gay objector at the wedding ceremony, announces loudly that the bridegroom is his ma Festival, is that out of Sophia, Georgetown, where there lover. So the bride extracts a gun and shoots dead, the man is so much gun violence, came a wonderful little comedy she was just about to marry. My question is this: which bride play, which was enacted by four to 14-year-old actors. There takes a gun to her wedding? was no gunplay whatsoever in that beautifully produced and "The enigma to all of the gun violence at this year's Dra- performed comedy. Such clean, fun entertainment out of troubled Sophia!"

Of course, there will be those who will defend these "true-to-life", elements in plays which hold up a mirror to society. Plays such as those which are referred to in our sister CARICOM country, Jamaica, as "Crutch Theatre."

However, the other side of the argument, is that it is very unprofessional and irresponsible for any serious and professional playwright, to hold up the mirror only to the dark under-belly of society, where violence and vulgarity abound, and not give an inkling of that proverbial silver lining behind the dark cloud. Playwrights should have at least one positive character in their dark plot in the play. As is known, the job of a playwright is to take the rough diamond of society, carefully cut and polish it, before inserting it into a ring.

Our playwrights need to know the basic rudiments of their craft. They need to try and give sound and plausible reasons behind the behavour of their characters. Some members of the audiences have criticized the play which opened with a vicious rape scene, and another play which ended with a rape victim who shoots herself dead. Guyana is a country still struggling with a serious suicide problem; a country which is regarded as the "Suicide Capital of the world". A country which, nonetheless, has a Suicide Hotline, which unfortunately, is never referred to in any of the plays, at this National Drama Festival, 2016!

On the opening night of the finals of the National Drama Festival, at the National Cultural Centre, Chief Judge, Al Creighton, in addressing the audience, alluded to the Code of Conduct of the Drama Festival, and stated that offending groups will face penalties. At that opening night, the Minister of Government responsible for Culture, Hon. Nicolette Henry, M.P., promised her ministry's continuing support for the National Drama Festival. A representative of DIGICEL, which is an important financial sponsor of the National Drama Festival, also promised her company's continuing support.

Having stated most of the above, it would be remiss of me not to mention that there were quite a number of very inspirational plays. There was also some comedy plays with clean fun, suitable for Family audiences. Then there were those dramatic plays with clean, positive scenarios. "The Healing", which was staged by a Group from St. Cuthbert's Mission on the Upper Mahaica River, is a good example. It tells the story of a distraught father who does all within his power, to have his very sick daughter healed. The Indigenous culture and costumes were all to the education of the audience; edutainment at its brilliant best. Then there were the classics; Frank Pilgrim's "Miriamy", Ronald Hollingsworth's "Till Ah Find a Place", Barrington Braithwaite's "The Legend of the Silk Cotton Tree", (Trinidadian) Freddie Kissoon's "Doo Doo" and my own "The Slave and the Scroll."

So tonight, all roads will lead to the National Cultural Centre, for the Night of the Stars. There will be many winners - Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress. Best Director. Best new play. Best production and on and on. Of course, there will be those who would not receive any Awards for their efforts, except the reward of doing something which brought them and their audiences, lots of pleasure, lots of entertainment, and also lots of edutainment. After all, when I won the best Actor Prize back in 1965, the trophy and the Best wishes of admiring audiences were all we got, but which we treasure over the decades. If you doubt me, then ask former Best Supporting Actress of decades ago, Yvonne Harewood-Benn, who still has the joy of participating and winning, warm in her heart.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016 THE Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot Magazine welcomes its newest columnist – Events Manager Natalya Thomas.

Creativity and a drive for perfection outline Natalya’s professional ways, even as she launches Aone Events with the aim of generating “meaningful results by connecting ideas and audiences” through events management.

Making a further step in connecting ideas and audiences, Thomas begins her new drive today through a column titled “Let’s talk events”, published in the Sunday Chronicle’s ‘Pepperpot’ Magazine.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aone Events, the

qualified young entrepreneur says she “wants to change the way the world views events and marketing.”

The weekly column, titled ‘Let’s talk events’, is one which offers tips for planning various kinds of events.

“How to improve your events, how to cut cost in planning event, how to select an event planner, how to choose colours in planning your events - and its significance, budgeting (and) what to expect from your events planner” are some of the areas to be covered in the series.

Thomas has been for years coordinating events, including gala dinners, seminars, conferences, company meetings, corporate hospitality, incentive programs, fundraisers, private parties, product launches and major pageants. She has been for two years Executive Operations Coordinator of the Miss World Guyana pageant.

Her advertising and consultancy services include planning and execution of promotions, advertising, graphic designing, monthly reporting system, social media management, corporate branding and rebranding. She is also a Marketing and Public Relations Consultant.

Thomas was born on October 16, 1990 and also has a passion for fashion and designing. Sketching silhouettes was a childhood hobby, and in 2012 she took up the challenge and emerged ‘model search’ winner of the Model Search and Designers Portfolio by Sonia Noel’s Guyana Fashion Week.

She is also one of the two designers who collaborated to produce “duo collection,” a Caribbean shoe and clothing design company.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

EPIC Guyana gives a helping hand LAST FRIDAY, EPIC Guyana in partnership with Impressions donated school supplies to the St. Christopher Nursery School in Stevedore Housing Scheme, North Ruimveldt.

Sixty eight students in the first-year nursery received crayons, multi colored pencils, erasers, sharpeners and pencil cases.

Their faces were filled with joy as they ran around, excited to be receiving the small presents. Ms. Jinelle Washington received the donation on behalf of the nursery school and expressed her gratitude to the organization.

As EPIC Guyana continues to roll out its various youth empowerment and community enhancement initiatives, it thanked Impressions and the other corporate and private donors who assist in making these initiatives a reality.

Pictured are the St. Christopher first year nursery schoolers. Behind them, on the left is Surujdai Mukhram (EPIC Guyana Program Coordinator) and on the right is Ms. Jinelle Washington (St. Christopher Teacher)

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Yahoo Suffers Major Data Breach Deja Vu YAHOO on Wednesday revealed that Net bandits stole data associated with 1 billion of its user accounts -- one of the largest data breaches in Internet history.

The theft, which occurred in August 2013, is distinct from the theft disclosed earlier this fall, in which 500 million accounts were compromised, Yahoo CISO Bob Lord explained.

Stolen information may include names, email addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, hashed passwords using MD5 encryption -- and in some cases, encrypted or unencrypted security questions and answers, according to Lord.

An unauthorized third party accessed the code Yahoo uses to create cookies, he noted. Access to that code allowed attackers to compromise accounts with forged cookies.

In response to this latest discovery, Yahoo is taking steps to secure the accounts of affected users and invalidate forged cookies, said Lord, as well as to harden its systems against similar attacks.

MORE DATA NICKED This latest breach at Yahoo appears worse than the previous one not only because is it bigger, but also because more-sensitive information was stolen.

"More information was released than just usernames and passwords," explained Rami Essaid CEO of Distil Networks.

"The bad guys are getting a more holistic look at these users," he told TechNewsWorld.

The weakly encrypted or plaintext security questions in particular could be problematic, because the answers to those questions don't change from site to site.

"You can change your passwords, but you only have one mother's maiden name and one birth date," Essaid noted.

VERIZON DEAL How this latest data breach could affect the US$4.8 billion sale of Yahoo to Verizon is unknown. However, after news of the first breach made headlines, Verizon sought to lop $1 billion from the original purchase price, according to reports.

As with the previous Yahoo data breach, Verizon's official reaction to the latest theft was brusque.

"As we've said all along, we will evaluate the situation as Yahoo continues its investigation," the company said in a statement provided to the E-Commerce Times by spokesperson Rich Young. "We will review the impact of this new development before reaching any final conclusions. We have no additional comment at this time."

Companies buy other companies for any number of reasons -- their customer lists, their technology or their talent, among other things -- observed RedSeal CEO Ray Rothrock.

"If Verizon was buying Yahoo for its customers, this is a bad deal," he told the E-Commerce Times.

MERGER DOWNSIDE If Verizon expected to merge its customer databases with Yahoo's, it might think twice about that now.

"It's likely Verizon will avoid merging databases," said Peter Martini, president of Iboss. "That will impact the value of the acquisition, since a good portion of that value was for Yahoo's customer database."

In addition, many Yahoo customers may avoid using the company's services because of the breach.

"If they see a large exodus of customers, it will further impact the value of the company," Martini told the E-Commerce Times.

Worse yet, Verizon doesn't know if there is more bad news down the road, added Mark Graff, CEO of Tellagraff.

"They've had these breaches and have not been able to fix them," he told the E-Commerce Times. "Why should we believe the intruders still aren't there? Why should we think there's not another shoe to drop?"

GO TO GMAIL Whether the Verizon-Yahoo deal is completed or not, it's likely to influence many future mergers and acquisitions, noted Shuman Ghosemajumder, CTO of Shape Security.

"The deal will serve as the archetype for the need for thorough security-related due diligence by acquirers in the future," he told the E-Commerce Times.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Gates Spearheads $1B Clean Tech Effort

ONE year after a powerhouse group of technology executives and venture capital icons met to form the Breakthrough Energy Coalition, the group, led by Microsoft founder Bill Gates, has launched a US$1 billion investment fund to support clean energy startups around the world.

The Breakthrough Energy Fund, chaired by Gates, is designed to jumpstart an entire new generation of entrepreneurs developing radical new approaches to providing reliable and low-cost energy, with zero carbon emissions as the end goal.

Institutional partners, including the University of California, will help generate research ideas. Strategic partners, including Southern Co. and others, will help the group with regulatory issues, and figure out which companies have the most promise.

In addition to Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Breakthrough Energy Coalition's board members include John Arnold, co-chair of the Laura and John Arnold Foundation; John Doerr, chair of Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield & Byers; and Vinod Khosla, founder of Khosla Ventures.

STAR POWER Other leading members include Jack Ma, executive chairman of Alibaba Group; Mukesh Ambani, chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries; Hasso Plattner, cofounder of SAP; Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon; and Reid Hoffman, founder of LinkedIn. Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg recently joined the investor group, bringing the membership to 21, Gates said.

"Breakthrough technologies ... have the potential to be one of the best investment opportunities of the 21st century," Doerr said earlier this week, in a conference call with reporters.

The fund will invest in a wide variety of companies -- storage, transportation, agricultural, electrical generation and industrial, among others. The fund will offer a range of financing, from seed capital to early stage investment and capitalization.

The fund will take advantage of a lot of lessons learned about financing clean energy companies, and apply those lessons to the new venture, Doerr said.

The fund will emphasize taking a "long, patient view" toward investment, in order to give companies enough time to properly develop, Khosla said during the conference call.

The fund will be able to handle seven-, eight- and nine-figure investments, Arnold added, and it will focus on revolutionary versus evolutionary investments -- that is, those designed to push aggressively toward significant emission reductions.

"While there might be long-term business gains, I personally believe that this is part of [Gates'] philanthropic work to improve overall human conditions, particularly for the next generation," observed Farah Saeed, principal consultant at Frost & Sullivan.

"Also, there is the attraction of using technology to resolve existing issues around improving affordability and vast availability of clean energy," she told TechNewsWorld.

DOE SUPPORT U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz hailed the launch of the new fund as a breakthrough that will help push the U.S. into greater standing in the clean energy field, and he warned against the dangers of rolling back this progress.

"Because of the United States' longstanding commitment to technology innovation, we have a head start on developing next generation clean-energy technologies," Moniz said. "However, if the United States chooses to back away from a redoubled commitment to innovation, it will be American entrepreneurs, manufacturers and workers who will be put at competitive disadvantage in developing breakthrough technologies and creating jobs."

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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English 2016-12-18

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, It is true of examinations that different levels demand more specialist knowledge, understanding and expertise as the student moves up through them. But even if examinations become more technical and abstract in ideas and concepts, require greater specialisation, and demand more use of jargon, they do not become more difficult. Examinations are of great and awful challenge only to the unprepared and inexperienced.

Study well.

Love you.

THE PASSAGE Comprehend this simple passage in quick time.

“All right, Your Honour. I will tell you exactly what hap-

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

The sublime and the ridiculous are often so nearly related, that it is difficult to class them separately.

TOM PAINE (1737-1809) The Crisis pt.ii (1795), p.20

pened as best I can recall, without holding back.”

The witness, Simon Butterscotch, shifted in his seat and continued his testimony: “You see, I called the police as soon as my mother, Seta, told me the car keys were gone. It was a strange day from the beginning, really. Something woke me up at 05:00 hours – much, much earlier than usual. I looked out the window and saw my car in the driveway. That surprised me, because the night before my mother asked me if she could borrow my car for the next day. Her car had broken down last week. So I gave her my keys and said ‘Sure – I get a bus ride to work anyway.’ My car wasn’t supposed to be in my driveway because my mother is a packer and on her present shift she leaves at five in the morning! When I went downstairs, I took one look at my car. That’s when I saw the windshield broken on the driver’s side. I called my mother to ask her whether she knew what had happened. My mother

said her shift had been changed and she hadn’t taken the car yet. Then she realised the keys were not where she left them.”

Something to Do 1. Who was Simon Butterscotch telling his experience? a) a neighbour c) a lawyer b) his mother d) a magistrate 2. “Without holding anything back” means: a) without telling all c) without keeping all b) telling everything back d) telling something back 3. “A strange day” means: a) a dressed up day c) a single day b) a unknown day d) a not-normal day 4. Point out the sequence of events in the testimony. i) Simon saw the broken windshield. ii) Simon’s mother’s car broke down. iii) Simon called the police. iv) Simon’s mother asked to borrow his car. v) Simon’s mother said she had not taken the car. vi) Simon’s mother said she realised the keys were missing. vii) Simon went downstairs to look at the car. viii) Something woke Simon early. a) i), ii), viii), v), vi), iii), iv), vii) b) v), vi), viii), iii), i), ii), iv), vii) c) vi), iii), viii), iv), ii), vii), i), v) d) ii), iv), i), vi), iii), vii), v), viii) GRAMMAR A look at managing phrases A word about phrases: Phrases are groups of two or more related words that add information to different parts of the sentence.

Many phrases have predicates, but they do not have subjects and predicates as sentences and clauses have.

Today we name four types of phrases: prepositional, participial, gerund, and infinitive. We however, deal with only two of them: participial and gerund.

Participial Phrases Participial phrases are those that consist of a past or present participle, its object and any modifiers.

Reminder: Past participles are verbs usually ending in –ed.

Present participles are verbs always ending in –ing.

Participial phrases are used as adjectives only. played like a butterfly inspired by his downfall sprang from the thicket sweating like a donkey suckling their offspring winging from a length of web Examples of participial phrases in sentences: The labourer sweating like a donkey is the sick boy’s father. (sweating like a donkey acts as an adjective; modifies labourer) Wild pigs, suckling their young, came from up the mountains. (suckling their young acts as an adjective; modifies wild pigs) Gerund Phrases Note: A gerund, a verbal noun, can be used like any other noun. It may have adjective modifiers. Fast riding is good exercise. (“fast,” is the modifier) The gerund keeps certain verbal characteristics; that is, it may have complements and adverbial modifiers.

Cleaning plastic is a tedious task. (plastic, object of Cleaning) Eating quickly causes a sick stomach. (quickly, modifier of Eating) Note: A gerund phrase is made up of a gerund and its complements or modifiers. In the examples above, Cleaning plastic and Eating quickly are gerund phrases.

Gerunds and present participles look exactly alike.

The phrases in the two sentences below contain the same wording as two examples used above under Participial Phrases.

Sweating like a donkey was the only way the trainees could prove they had good stamina.

(Sweating like a donkey acts as a noun; used as the subject of the sentence.)

All mammals like suckling their young.

(Suckling their young acts as a noun; used as direct object.)

Reminder once again: Gerund phrases are always used as nouns and participial phrases are always used as adjectives.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 18, 2016

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Dijon Chicken Baked Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 1 tablespoon cold water • 1/2 cup white sugar • 1/2 cup soy sauce • 1/4 cup cider vinegar • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper • 12 skinless chicken thighs

"Chicken breasts with a Dijon mustard/white wine sauce, coated with bread crumbs and baked to perfection - with the skins on! The French flair and flavors make this dish simply 'magnifique'!"

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in chicken breast halves, with skin • 2 teaspoons salt • 2 tablespoons butter • 3 cloves garlic, chopped • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard • 2 tablespoons white wine • 2 cups seasoned dry bread crumbs Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175

degrees C).

2. Season chicken with salt. In a small saucepan, sauté butter, garlic, mustard, and wine together for 3 to 4 minutes over medium low heat; spread mixture over chicken.

3. Place bread crumbs in a shallow dish or bowl and dredge chicken in crumbs, leaving skins on. Place coated chicken pieces in a lightly greased baking dish.

4. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Directions

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the cornstarch, cold water, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger and ground black pepper. Let simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and bubbles.

2. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

3. Place chicken pieces in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Brush chicken with the sauce. Turn pieces over, and brush again.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Turn pieces over, and bake for another 30 minutes, until no longer pink and juices run clear. Brush with sauce every 10 minutes during cooking.

Roast Sticky Chicken-Rotisserie Style "Ever wish you could get that restaurant-style rotisserie chicken at home? Well, with minimal preparation and about 5 hours' cooking time you can!

Ingredients

• 4 teaspoons salt • 2 teaspoons paprika • 1 teaspoon onion powder • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • 1 teaspoon white pepper • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder • 2 onions, quartered • 2 (4 pound) whole chickens 1. In a small bowl, mix together salt, paprika, onion powder, thyme, white pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Remove and discard giblets from chicken. Rinse chicken cavity, and pat dry with paper towel. Rub each chicken inside and out with spice mixture. Place 1 onion into the cavity of each chicken. Place chickens in a resealable bag or double wrap with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, or at least 4 to 6 hours.

2. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C).

3. Place chickens in a roasting pan. Bake uncovered for 5 hours, to a minimum internal temperature of 180 degrees F (85 degrees C). Let the chickens stand for 10 minutes before carving.

Pork Chops with Raspberry Sauce "Succulent herbed boneless pork loin chops paired with a tangy raspberry sauce ... heaven on a plate!

Ingredients degrees C). In a small bowl, combine • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed crushed thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.

• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage, crushed Rub evenly over pork chops.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt 2. Melt butter and olive oil in a nonstick • 1/4 teaspoon pepper skillet. Cook pork chops for 4 to 5 min• 4 (4 ounce) boneless pork loin chops utes on each side, turning once. Remove • 1 tablespoon butter from skillet and keep warm in preheated • 1 tablespoon olive oil oven.

• 1/4 cup seedless raspberry jam 3. In the skillet, combine raspberry jam, • 2 tablespoons orange juice orange juice, and vinegar. Bring to a boil, • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until sauce • 4 sprigs fresh thyme (optional) is reduced to desired consistency (sauce will thicken as it cools). Spoon sauce in Directions a pool onto a serving plate, and top with 1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees F (95 pork chops. Garnish with sprigs of thyme.