FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019 ICONarchives.etypeservices.com/heat123/Magazine267303/... · 2019. 3. 21. ·...

ISSUE 732FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019

WHO IS LEIGHPHILLIPS?

CAFA FASHIONSHOW

ZULU BANDPOP-UP

WARMWELCOMEFOR ROYALS

ICONBRANCKERHONOURED

$1

http://heatbarbados.com

2 • FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019 HEAT

FRANK Collymore Hallhas always been avenue which is

synonymous withworld-class produc-tions and thisrecord of excel-lence continuedon Sunday withthe staging ofHarrisonCollege’sMosaic –‘Trailblazers’.

This sixth edition washosted under the patronage ofSir Ken Hewitt.The school placesheavy emphasis on excelling in bothacademics and the artsand is committed to beingpioneers in all spheres.Mosaic has become a staple inthe school’s calendar of events and is used to fund both the music and sports programmes within the renownedinstitution.

There was something magical aboutthis production and from the first note ofthe backing band there was a definite airof class. The band, with John Roett at thehelm, meshed seasoned instrumentalistswith some of their more youthful coun-terparts incorporating select student musicians. This spellbinding combinationcovered a range of genres as the first

section was dedicated to song-writers from ‘Kolij’. Keeping

in tandem with AyoBurrowes’ assurance

that the committee ofthe Parent TeacherAssociation remained deter-mined to ensurethat mosaic re-mained fresh andexciting, it wasevident that thisobjective wasachieved with the full cast of tal-ented performers.

Every audiencemember found

something to excitethem regardless of

their musical taste,with the eclectic range

of songs. Harmoni Haynes,in pristine white, was breath-

taking both visually and vocallywith her rendition of Shontelle Layne’sinternational hit ‘Impossible’.

An energetic performance of Layne’s‘Colours’ was provided by the trio ofMikel Gooding, Mequissa Baptiste andRenice Bonnett. Their appearance wasmade even more dynamic by the fluiddance moves of Riddim Tribe. A sensualvibe was added by the husband and wifeduo of vocalist Dionne and saxophonistNicholas Timothy with ‘We’re NotFriends Anymore’.

CONT’D on next page

Kolij TrailblazersDionneTimothy

AlixCage

Harmoni Haynes

The steel pan playersentertained duringthe intermission.

FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019 • 3HEAT

CONT’D from previous page

Ayanna John was in full diva mode with her fierydelivery of ‘Hey Lovee’, which was complete withdance moves. Komi Barrow added some reggaeflavour as he paid homage to ‘Spice’ with ‘Rastaman’.Smokey Burke, who was in attendance, was amongthe ‘trailblazers’ and he was honoured as Alix Cagebelted out his ‘Help Me Love’.

Other outstanding artistes included Tavia Drakes,Raanan Hackett and Simon Pipe. The dancers of the Barbados Dance Project brought finesse to theproduction, with the Harrison College School Choir

added to themelting pot

of talent.(ST)

Outstanding performances

SimonPipe

MikelGooding

Riddim Tribe

AyannaJohn

MequissaBaptiste

DonHendrix

“Don’t allow the past to hold the pen thatwrites your future”

Local author Keisha Rock believes that these wordsare critical to any person who may be fearful ofmaking mistakes, holding on to the past and movingboldly into the future.

She recently officially launched the book,“Releasing the Past – Building Beauty fromBrokenness”, a journey which she said beganapproximately five years ago after jokingly telling herfriends that the way her life was going she shouldwrite a book. “I put it aside and then when I wasinvolved in a John Maxwell Mastermind Study (15Invaluable Laws of Growth) in 2017, I was challengedto complete it. During the Mastermind we wereencouraged to pursue the things we had beenprocrastinating about for some time or that we werefearful to pursue. We were encouraged to make boldmoves and not excuses.”

Coming out of a conversation with a friend thepowerful quote: “Don’t allow the past to hold the penthat writes your future” was born. “This quote wasprinted on shirts as my group encouraged me to makeit a brand. The quote is also it became the foundationof the book.”

A past student of the Alexandra School and teacherof the Sharon Primary School, she says the process ofpublishing was not particularly difficult. Having mether publisher (Shaniqua Howell of Shelev Publishing)at the Kingdom Arts Festival – LEAD Lounge inAugust, the process was completed quickly and byNovember the book was available on Amazon inpaperback and the Kindle version.

She cautions that not releasing one’s past can stiflegrowth and cause emotional and psychologicalissues. “For one’s peace of mind and mental well-being, releasing the past is the best option.”

The 36-year old believes that persons that arehaving or have had challenges and difficult situationsto deal with that their past does not define them andtheir present situation does not have to be their finaldestination. “With God on our side we can walk inpurpose and passionately pursue the things He haspre-destined us to do.”

Keisha believes that anyone who has encounteredany challenge in life can relate to the book. “I havehad positive feedback from both males and females,young persons and more mature individuals whohave read the book.”

She said the book has been well-received. “I amtruly thankful for the support. When you put yourselfin a vulnerable position and become transparent youcan never predict the outcome. However, I amdefinitely pleased about the positive feedback andwords of encouragement I’ve received to date.”

Keisha used the opportunity to thank all thosepersons who assisted through prayer,encouragement and support. “My church family,blood relatives and mentors played integral roles inthe process. However, without Almighty God, I amnothing and there would not be a book to speak

about.”The first-time author says she has already

started writing another book, this timelooking at how women are impacted bythe absence of biological fathers in thehome.

The book “Releasing the Past –Building Beauty fromBrokenness” can be purchaseddirectly from the author or onAmazon.


Author Keisha Rocksays her new bookteaches the importanceof releasing the past forone’s peace of mind andmental well-being.

Local author: Release the past

Aselect group of students at theSharon Primary School in St.Thomas, have been dubbed the

Sharon Environmental Avengers andtheir job is to lead by example, inensuring that the environment there iskept litter free and is indeed pleasing tothe eye.

During the installation ceremony heldrecently at the school, Principal PamelaSmall-Williams noted that theenvironmental initiative started with anidea from three seven to eight year oldboys.

“On Thursday November 2017, threeseven to eight year old boys namely,Jeighon Williams, Razario Connell andJared Padmore expressed their desire tocommence a litter free campaign at theschool.

After permission was obtained fromthe parents, nothing seemed moreattractive to the boys after lunch, thantheir goal – a litter free environment.Today, this has evolved into anEnvironmental Avengers Club, with MissMaxine Walker as the coordinator,” theprincipal explained.

“While the benefits of creating andmaintaining a healthy schoolenvironment must be understood, thereality of children at the tender ages of

seven to nine who understand theimportance of a sustainable hygienicenvironment and are motivated toorganise themselves to assist in such atangible way, is quite remarkable” sheadded.

During the installation ceremony, theboys and girls in the Club received theircertificates from Minister of theEnvironment and NationalBeautification, Trevor Prescod asMinister of People Empowerment andElder Affairs, Cynthia Forde, who servesas the Parliamentary Representative forSt. Thomas, looked on in support.

Minister Prescod stressed that he isdepending on the Sharon EnvironmentalAvengers and youth in general in schoolsto spread the word about the need tobetter take care of the environmental, sothat the adults can catch on.

“What you are doing here is creating anew culture, not only at the schools, but aculture that you will take through thephysical environment in which youreside and you can start to influence yourparents, your neighbours, other childrenin the community, because what we wantto do ultimately, is to have the cleanestand the most beautiful country in theCaribbean, coming out of Barbados andyou are the (pioneers) who will take the

initiative in doing that,” he stated.“And I want you to help me to do that,

because if it is not done, I will have tobring strict legislation, because people

must learn how important hygiene is,having these sanitary conditions aroundus,” the Minister further commented(RSM)


SharonEnvironmentalAvengers Club

launched

The Sharon Environmental Avengers following the installation.

Principal of Sharon Primary School, Pamela Small-Williams.

APP creation for mobile devices has proven to be alucrative market for programmers and tech enthusi-asts since the invention of the modern smartphone.Almost every year, we hear about multi-billion dollartech companies such as Apple and Google, makinglarge investments into small tech startups and newpopular apps. It’s not been that long ago sinceFacebook, the giant American social networking serv-ice company, purchased the popular WhatsApp pro-gram for a cool US $19 billion dollars.

Local entrepreneur and Digital Media Manager andconsultant, Allyson Benn, saw the need for having aplatform for the listing of reviews of local serviceproviders all in one place for the benefit of the enduser. This idea gave birth to what is now known as theCulpepper app.

Recently, she came in at second position in Project X;an entrepreneurship program sponsored by Bitt – thecompany behind the region’s first digital payment plat-form – as well as the Barbados EntrepreneurshipFoundation.

In speaking to Heat about her experience, she shedsome light on how her idea for the application firstbegan.

“I tried to look for a service to remove an old fridgefrom a client’s home. It ended up with me having toask my entire friends’ list online to aid in the task. ThenI realized, we have access to only non-indigenous re-view platforms which don’t cater to our culture here in

Barbados.”The Project X competition was not originally on her

radar but, taking a leap of faith, she decided to bite thebullet in order to receive some much needed feedback.

“Project X was a competition I entered on a whim.The networking I did there was invaluable and I gothonest, unbiased feedback about Culpepper’s func-tions by people who don’t actually know me, so theyare not invested in my ego.”

Here in Barbados, locals often move slowly onto newways of interacting with technology. Benn is aware ofthis fact, and so far has relied on word of mouth andsome online marketing to spread the word about hernew product.

“I’m quite patient when it comes to people andtrends around technology. There’s a lot of pressure onus to use this app or the next. I want people to comfort-ably integrate the app into their life experiences andI’m patient enough to see them moving slowly andsteadily into it.”

Benn has already released the app to select businessowners around the island to gauge their feedbackabout the product and make important changes beforethe final version of the product is released on theGoogle Playstore to a much wider audience. For thoseinterested in keeping up with Culpepper’s progress,you can check out First Legacy Presents’ YouTube pagewhich will add update videos about the app as the in-terface grows. (SB)


Culpepper app aimsto bring local touchto popular service

Initial stages of the Culpepper interface.

Allyson Benn.

TWO of this island’s reigning monarchs are ready todefend their top spots even in the face of the newstructure of the calypso competitions.

Joining Chief Executive Officer of the NationalCultural Foundation Carol Roberts-Reifer on stage atthe Sponsors Launch last week, reigning calypsomonarch Anderson ‘Blood’ Armstrong said with onesong now between a contestant and first place, impactwas the name of the game.

“You got to come and you got to come good. Yoursong on that night, there is no back-up so it has to beimpactful. It has to impact the crowd, it has to impactthe judges and has to leave something that showswhen you leave that stage, it is undeniable that youare the winner,” he said.

The Pic-O-De-Crop competition no longer carries asemi-final, but 16 calypsonians will be selected duringjudging nights in the tents to go up against themonarch at Kensington Oval on August 2.

In addition, the winner has the option to choose be-tween a Nissan X-Trail or $100,000 cash from CourtesyGarage.

Meanwhile, the Party and Sweet Soca competitionswill now merge for the Soca Monarch at the NationalBotanical Gardens in Waterford, St. Michael on July 28.

Party Monarch Michael ‘Mikey” Mercer told thosegathered at Illaro Court that “I ready” for the day intonight event, which will see the winner driving home aMazda BT 50 from McEnearney Quality Inc.

“I think this is going to be a very, very interestingchange. I am interested in seeing the criteria whereyou judge a power soca song and a sweet soca songagainst one another. I am looking forward to that,” hesaid, before revealing his intention to also vie for Pic-O-De-Crop crown this year. (JMB)

Monarchsready torumble


&DOO�XV�DW��WR�FROOHFW�\RXU�SUL]H

7KH�:LQQLQJ�1XPEHUV�IRU�LVVXH�0DUFK��WK��0DUFK��VW��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

MINISTER of Agriculture and Food Security, IndarWeir says his ministry is working assiduously to fullydevelop the local coconut industry.

He made the comments as he delivered remarkslastSunday morning at the Calvary TempleCommunity Church at Groves, St. Philip, where hejoined the congregation to celebrate the 2019 sugar har-vest. According to the Minister, as part of that coconuteffort, several coconut vendors have already receivedtraining in the safe and healthy handling of coconuts.This, he said, was done in collaboration with theCaribbean Agricultural Research and DevelopmentInstitute (CARDI) and the Ministry of Health andWellness.

Moreover, he revealed that as they seek to boost theindustry, his ministry has purchased as many as 6000high yielding dwarf coconut varieties from Brazil. Heexplained these coconut trees which are currently atthe nursery stage, will soon be available for purchaseby interest persons and are expected to bear fruitwithin a period of three to four years. The Agricultureand Food Security Minister explained that this is a ben-efit, as it is a shorter time period than the general cyclefor coconut trees which is usually five to six years.Minister Weir made the remarks as he said the coconutinitiative is put one of the steps being taken by his min-istry, to help effect a transformation in the agriculturalsector in this country.

The work in the area of coconuts has been facilitatedthrough a project financed by the European Unionthrough the European Development Fund. Barbadoswas the last of several countries in the region to get in-volved in that four-year coconut project, which came toan end last year and was geared towards enhancingfarming productivity, business capacity and the com-petitiveness of small scale farmers and entreprisesalong the coconut value chain. Last December at aCARDI Day event Katja Svensson, ProgrammeManager, Regional Cooperation and Trade –Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Barbados,the Eastern Caribbean States, the OECS and CARI-COM/CARIFORUM said that through the 11th EDF, asecond project, spanning five years, with a budget ofsix million euros, is expected to build on the initialproject and further develop the regional coconut indus-try. (JRT)

DO you know your responsibilities as a consumer whenit comes to returning items? While a store may offer acredit note for returned items, it is important for you tounderstand when it is acceptable for the store to do so.

Where an item is defective and the business informsyou that you may only return the item for a credit note,then that business has misled you about your rights.Misleading consumers in this manner is a breach of theConsumer Protection Act, CAP.326D. In addition, underthe Consumer Guarantees Act, which is administeredby the Office of Public Counsel, consumers are entitledto repair or replacement of the item, or a refund.

However, if an item is not defective and you simplywant to return it because you have changed your mind,although the business is not obligated to, a credit notecan be offered for a future purchase.

Remember consumers, shop around in order to getthe best price and quality for your money.

If you have any questions, email us at [email protected],call us at 424-0260 or visit us online at www.ftc.gov.bborwww.facebook.com/BarbadosFairTradingCommission.You may also visit our offices at ‘Good Hope’, GreenHill, St. Michael

Let’s get it right consumers

Coconutpush By Krystal Penny Bowen

IF you want to be great, serve under God!This passionate message was given by Apostolic

Administrator of Diocese of Bridgetown, the Most Rev.Dr. Charles Jason Gordon, during the 120th anniversaryof the dedication of St. Patrick’s Roman CatholicChurch last Sunday.

To a church with standing room only, Dr. Gordon con-tinued, saying that the culture Barbadians are living inis a “new paganism” and there is a need for a “newPatrick” in this time to bring a message of hope to thepeople.

“(This is needed for) a people whose imagination isfilled with worldliness, where the Gospel and the mes-sages of the Cross no longer have a central base in thehearts, minds, and imagination of so many of our peo-ple,” said Dr. Gordon.

Church and Catholics resilient The Chief Celebrant preached that the purpose of the

church is not to have nice buildings, but to house a peo-ple whose life is given to God. He reminded the congre-gation of the history of the church when, in the past inEngland it was illegal to be Catholic, and in Barbadosthe challenges of proclaiming one’s faith. He noted theconstruction of the church in 1840, destruction by fire inJune 1897 and it being rebuilt in 1899.

“(This) speaks to a resilient people, a people whowere not going to be pushed back because the circum-

stances were not in their favour,” said the Most Rev. Dr.Charles Jason Gordon, a situation that arises partly be-cause the bright light of Jesus Christ is not shining outof us by our example and how we are living.

He added that on the 120th anniversary, this was awonderful time to consider the journey; the move fromslavery to freedom that each one of us is invited to. Heasked the church if they wanted to be religious when itis convenient or do they want to belong completely toGod. He noted that the answer was found in the Wordof God.

“The joy of the Gospel will bring conversion to thehearts of the people and their imagination about how(they) will face the darkness that (they) are living in andmake it out of that darkness, the wonderful, resplendentlight that is Jesus Christ, himself,” said the Most Rev. Dr.Charles Jason Gordon.

In his message from the Diocese, the Most Rev. Dr.Charles Jason Gordon said that the “church is a beaconof hope and a symbol of faith and commitment in spiteof many obstacles”.

At the end of the service, in the presence of HerExcellency Dame Sandra Mason, Governor General ofBarbados, Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, PrimeMinister of Barbados and members of her Cabinet, theMost Rev. Dr. Charles Jason Gordon and Father VibertStephens unveiled a painting created by renowned localartist, Coral Bernadine. This artwork represented theparishes in Barbados and the existing Catholic churches.

Barbadians told: Serveunder God to be great

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.ftc.gov.bb

http://www.facebook.com/BarbadosFairTradingCommission


By Shamar Blunt

International Francophonie Day wascelebrated in fine style this week asthe Alliance Française of Barbados

in collaboration with the HighCommissioner of Canada, HerExcellency Marie Legault, hosted an intimate cocktail reception on thegrounds of the Barbados Museum recently. The special day ofInternational Francophonie, is a celebration of the French language and culture, and occurs annually in March in over 70 countries and member states around the world.

This year, the theme for the specialday, when translated to English, is “InFrench please”. This slogan is for thesupport of French speakers around theworld, to use the language morecreatively in the formation of newwords, such as that which is alreadybeing done with the English languageby its native speakers.

During her address to patrons,Legault conveyed how important itwas to French speakers around the

world to embrace the language and aidin its constant development withchanging technologies.

“Very often in this new world of science and technology, when we createnew words, they tend to be born inEnglish. [Mrs. Louise Mushikiwabo]Secretary General of La Francophonie,is using the theme of this year to basically say ‘let’s translate thosewords, let’s be creative’. We can alsocreate new words in French to translatethis new economy [and] this new technology. Francophonie Day is about inclusiveness [for] more than 300 million French speakers around theworld and those of us in Barbados whowould love to discover [more] aboutthis language and help enrich theFrench everyday thanks to the culturaldiversity.”

Director of the local AllianceFrancaise, Stanislas Riener, spoke of thegreat support the French language hasreceived all across the Caribbean andgave his thanks to the facilitators whoaided in such efforts.

CONT’D on Next Page

InternationalFrancophonie Day

Celebrations

Director of the local Alliance Francaise, Stanislas Riener.

Canadian High Commissioner (right) Marie Legault, sharing a light moment with guests.


CONT’D from Previous Page

“Our Caribbean space is a space ofyouth; the dynamic, creative and inno-vative youth who deserve encourage-ment to succeed… I cannot talk aboutFrancophonism without acknowledg-ing the actors who keep it alive in theCaribbean and here in Barbados. I’dlike to salute the determination ofFrench teachers in Barbados… I wantto compliment the principal and thosewho understand the importance in foreign languages at a young age.

Offering great French programmes forthe young ones. I would like to alsocongratulate the students, especiallythe adults who are stepping up to thechallenge of learning French and proving it’s never too late to start learn-ing.”

The reception was followed by thefilm “La Grande Séduction”, whichcentres around the story about a smallfishing village, Saint-Marie-La-Mauderne, and its residents’ comedicbid to seduce a doctor to take up full-time residency on the island.

French teachers earn respect

Persons from the Canada and French fraternities who came joined in on the celebrations.

One of the guests sampling the roasted pork on display.

Patrons being served a smoked salmon hors d'oeuvre.


CHIC style and fashion was the order for theevening on Friday, as the Caribbean FineArt (CaFA) Fair held its annual Caribbean

Fashion Show. The event saw the creative designerminds from several Caribbean countries bringingtheir signature creations to display for the intimateaudience gathered.

Designers included Marlene Millon-Desvignes ofIMAT’s Creations (Martinique), Deisha Dare(Trinidad &Tobago), Lana Wilson (Barbados), AndreaL. O’Neale (Barbados), Cherin White (Barbados),Marva Forde (Barbados), and Alice Martin(Barbados).

cont’d on page 11

CaFA CaribbeanFashion Show

From the Cherin Whitebeach collection.

Casual wear by AndreWatson.


FASHION from page 10Marlene Millon-Desvignes opened the

night with her selection of pieces in-spired heavily by African heritage, withmany of the dresses using strong earthlycolours and throwbacks to outfits whichwould have been seen in black societiesin the years gone by.

Cherin White’s casual beach weartheme was a flourish of colour and atti-tude that would appeal nicely to theyoung adult market. The crocheted topsfor the ladies added to the vibe the piecesbrought of being modern and stillclassy for any potential buyers.

Other designers such as

Andre Watson, showcased some trueAfrican influenced colours to his casualwear. With major emphasis on colourblocking with a modern twist, we lookforward to seeing more of his works in

the future.The Caribbean fashion show wasone of the highlights of the

weekend of activities that was plannedby this year's CaFA committee. For nextyear's iteration we should expect to seean even bigger showing of Caribbeanfashion that can not only hold it’s onlylocally, but around the region andabroad.

Caribbean Designers impress

Designs by AndreWatson.

Beach wear byCherin White.

From the CherinWhite beach collec-tion.


BARBADOS continued its long andtreasured history of hostingdistinguished guests and members ofthe Royal Family as Tuesday was noexception. His Royal Highness thePrince of Wales and The Duchess ofCornwall were treated to a variety ofevents yesterday as the island put on ashow.

First on the agenda was a visit to theHead of State, Governor General DameSandra Mason at Government House.This was followed by a wreath layingceremony at National Heroes Square.Their Royal Highnesses then met withPrime Minister Mia Mottley at herParliament office, where they werepresented with gifts. These giftsincluded toiletries made from Sargassumseaweed, tooth powder and rum.

The Royals then made their waythrough Bridgetown to the NidheSynagogue for a tour before His RoyalHighness, Prince Charles toured the BDFMedical Facility at the GarrisonSavannah, then the Soroptimist Villagein Eden Lodge. The Duchess of Cornwalltook part in a Women of the Worldmeeting at Ilaro Court, before touringthe Maria Holder Diabetes Centre andthe Derrick Smith Vocational Centre inLears St. Michael.

The Royals ended the evening with theGovernor General’s Reception atGovernment House.

Warmwelcomefor theRoyals

ABOVE: Prime MInisterMia Amor Mottley(second from left) makinga presentation to HisRoyal Highness thePrince of Wales and TheDuchess of Cornwallyesterday at Parliament.

LEFT: His RoyalHighness the Prince ofWales (left) chattingwith Governor GeneralDame Sandra Masonduring a courtesy call atGovernment House onthe morning.

Security was in place on the day.

FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019 •13HEAT

After weeks of preparation, stu-dents of both primary and second-ary schools will be showcasing

their diverse musical abilities at the 2019edition of the Schools’ Music Festival.

The project, which is an initiative of theMinistry of Education, Technological andVocational Training, was recently re-vamped. In a departure from previousyears, the competitive element has beeneliminated. This move was to ensure thatmore students felt comfortable being in-volved in the process without the elementof judgement. The step was lauded bymany of the music teachers and as a result an increased level of participationhas been recorded.

This display of talent, which is slated totake to the stage on Sunday 24th March atthe Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, willstart at 5pm with a preshow. The produc-tion includes students drawn from boththe primary and secondary level. Patronswho attend the showcase will not only enjoy superb vocals from both indi-viduals and choirs, but they will also beentertained by talented musicians highlighting their skills on a variety of instruments.

Each participant making an appearancewas handpicked by established membersof the local entertainment landscape whoall have their varied strengths. They in-cluded vocalists Glen Benjamin,Stephanie Chase and John Yarde, as wellas artiste manager Sonia Mullins. Aftertwo rounds of auditions some familiarfaces emerged, however, some new tal-ents have also been unearthed. The widecross section of students representing anarray of schools have undergone six de-velopmental workshops.

Lisa Howell, the workshop coordinatorand performance coach for this edition

would like to see theworkshops being contin-ued long-term. She be-lieves, “The educationalsystem can be built froma programme such asthis to allow the arts tobe more exposed and tohave a better system inplace.”

The organisershave beenadopting aholistic ap-proach.Althoughmany ofthe partici-pants ex-hibited rawtalent, thereis still a needto hone thatnatural ability. Tothis end studentshave not only been work-ing with the crème de la crème of thelocal music industry, but also key person-nel. The training was extensive, and thebudding artistes had the chance to workwith fitness instructor Janelle Butcher,who showed them importance of staminaand endurance in their performance.Media training was explored by TeshiaHinds and the importance of their imagewas a point of focus with Candis Broomeand Greg Williams. The charges wereprivy to an empowerment session withveteran performer Alison Hinds.Vocalists underwent training sessionswith vocal coaches including Lisa Howellof Sing Vocal Arts Studios, Marlon Legallof the Marlon Legall Voice Project andAndrew Lokey who has been instrumen-

tal in the development St Leonard’s Boys’choir. Gospel artiste Mya Daniel hosted asession with the primary school partici-pants. The instrumentalist coaches in-cluded Lowrey Worrell, FarakhanStephens, Ashlee Tang, Kris Clarke and

Mylon Clarke.In addition to the junior performers,

local ambassadors from the recently concluded Schools’ Anti-ViolenceCampaign, Mole, Peter Ram, Faith andPhilip 7 are slated to make an appear-

Both primary and secondary schools attended the developmental workshops.

Pianist from The Alleyne School. INSET: Vocal Coach Andrew Lokey .

Instrumentalists rehearsing for the showcase.

Schools’Music Festivalthis weekend


EVERY YEAR the Parent Teachers’ Associationof Harrison College sets a high bar, with notonly the caliber of talent which is showcased

but also the seamless production of their two-dayMosaic series. On Sunday their gala event was purebliss for music lovers when they dedicated part oftheir production to music guru Nicholas Brancker.

The musical genius of Brancker was celebrated inthe second half of the show, with fellow musician JohnRoett bringing some refreshing arrangements to someof Branker’s more prolific hits. It was an eclectic mix ofartistes who brought their ‘A game’ to play homage tothe icon. There was a perfect mix of youth andexperience and a fitting example of this was the duetwith Mequissa Baptiste and seasoned performerCindy Legall. It was a nostalgic trip down memorylane with Cindy’s surprise appearance, who was abandmate of Branker in their Second Avenue days.She joined Mequissa for ‘Since You Came In’.

Most of the island’s musical stalwarts appeared inthis segment. Gabby, who provided a disclaimer thathe was not in good voice, was still able to render atouching rendition of a bluesy version of ‘Emmerton’.Edwin Yearwood thrilled with ‘Voice in my Head’ and‘Pump Me Up’ while Alison Hinds was pleasing with‘Bazodee’ and a snippet of ‘Roll’. Reigning Pic-O-de-Crop Calypso Monarch was in fine form with‘Plumber’. Included in this cohobbolopot of talent wasAdrian Greene who molded some of Branker’spopular song titles in a thought provoking spokenpiece. Red Plastic Bag was the closing performer forthe evening and he was brilliant. He thoroughlyengaged the audience with ‘Something’s Happening’and ‘Hallelujah’.

Cont’d on Page 15

Icon Nicholas Brancker honouredNicholas Branckermade sure to ‘knock’everyone in the band.

Anthony‘Gabby’Carter.

EdwinYearwood.

ChereseRichards.


Cont’d from Page 14

Video tributes were interspersed throughout the musical performances and theanecdotal stories gave insights into Brancker as a person. Attendees were keptentertained by accounts from Brancker’s mother, children, closest friends andfellow musicians, including the internationally renowned Eddy Grant.

At the urgings of Master of Ceremonies for the evening, Gaynelle Marshall, theman of the hour came to say a few words. But in true measure of the person thathe is, he personally acknowledged every individual in the band before starting.What followed was a witty recap of the significance music played in his life. Heexpressed, “Part of the strength of character that I have inherited from my fatherand my mother and the ones that came from before them is that I was inspired bythe negative.” He acknowledged that everybody in his class wanted to be alawyer, doctor or engineer, however he conceded, “I had to prove a point. If I amgoing to be the person to dive out on this limb I have to make it work.” Herevealed, “I was driven inspirationally by those who supported me andnegatively by those who didn’t, the results were the same.” (ST)

Video tributes& personalinsights

Adrian Greene.

Alison Hinds.

TC.


By Shamar Blunt

WITH a life devoted to music, family, andfollowing her passions, Ashleigh 'Leigh'Phillips is not slowing down, she is only get-ting started. Over the years, the Honey Jamveteran has seen her singing career expandfar beyond our Barbados market, with op-portunities to sing abroad in Canada andelsewhere, in the pursuit of her dreams toreach the very top of where her talents cantake her. This week, she sat down with Heatto talk about her career and what we can ex-pect from her in the coming months.

Q. FOR THOSE WHO ARE OUTOF THE KNOW, WHO EXACTLYIS LEIGH PHILLIPS

A. I am a 28 year old singer-songwriter. Istarted writing from the age of 12 and got mystart in music after returning from universityand working in Toronto in 2015 by doing theHoney Jam program, and since then, it’sbeen kind of a rollercoaster. I was not alwaysgoing to do music; I did my degree actuallyin International Development studies andSpanish at York University. So music is notwhat I always thought I would do, but it’s al-ways been a passion of mine.

Q. IS IT SAFE TO SAY YOURPREFERRED GENRE OF MUSIC ISJAZZ? ALSO, GIVE US AN IDEAON HOW YOU DEVELOPEDYOUR LOVE FOR THE ARTFORM.

A. That’s not entirely correct. I have a Jazztone vocally, which is why I lean towardsJazz, but the truth is I love everything. You’llhear the Jazz element through my vocal tech-nique, you’ll hear R&B, and you’ll hear reg-gae influences and also pop. I developed thelove for all these genres from my sister; I useto listen to all of her music when she was notat home. I kind of use to sneak into her roomand listen to all of her CDs. It was betweenthat and also what my parents use to play inthe house. My parents used to listen to a lotof Billy Holiday, Nina Simone and I kind ofgrew up hearing Jazz from Miles Davis. Iwould not box myself into saying I’m anartist who prefers one genre; I’m a song-writer who has the advantage of being ableto pen in any genre I feel like expressing my-self in. I also grew up singing in churchchoirs, so that definitely influenced a lot ofmy vocal techniques.

Q. IN A PREVIOUS TALK WITHUS, YOU MENTIONED YOUR UP-COMING ALBUM, CAN YOUGIVE US MORE INSIGHT ONTHE DEVELOPMENT OF THISNEW BODY OF WORK ANDWHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT TOHEAR FROM THE RELEASELATER THIS YEAR?

A. The album is going to be released thissummer, and it’s going to be titled “Queen”.It’s an 8 track project; originally last year itwas going to be called Palm Trees but as it’sbeen developed over time, we figured Queen

would have been a better representation ofthe themes that will be covered on thealbum. It’s going to be a fusion of genres, soyou will hear some Jazz, Reggae, a little bit ofHouse, some Pop, so it will appeal to a widerange of audiences. The album, which willinclude both local and regional featured[artists] is being done by Mad Mixy ofDiverse Hit Studios in St Philip. Itshall cover a range of topics ofwhat it takes to be a queen;being self-confident, love, andlife with passion. It shall be aninsight on my life now andhow I see myself going for-ward. No matter what hap-pens, you have to know whoyou are, and for me, I’m aQueen. In the coming monthswe shall be releasing contentfrom the project, so look outfor that.

Q. WHAT IN-SPIRES YOU TOGET BEHIND THEMICROPHONE?

A. Ah I hate to be thatcliché person, but I justlove music. I definitelywas that kid who annoyedeveryone in the housemaking the most noise allthe time. Everyone wassleeping and I’d be inkitchen singing away my life.I could not imagine not singingnow. Just being true to myself iswhat inspires me

Q. WHAT IS IT YOUENJOY DOING THATHAS NOTHING TO DOWITH YOUR MUSICALGIFT?

A. That would be the beach,and I also read a lot, like a lot. Ilove cooking and spendingtime with my family especiallymy nieces and nephews.

Q. WHAT FOOD ISYOUR GUILTY PLEAS-URE?

A. Lemon anything. Lemonade,lemon flavored cupcakes; putlemon flavored food in front of meand I’m good.

Q. WHAT PARTS OFBAJAN CULTURE HASMOST INFLUENCEDYOUR MUSIC?

A. The language and the accent. Iuse slang that are definitely Bajan inmy tracks. In my latest release,Coconut Oil, I drop the whole ac-cent in the track. You will definitelybe seeing a lot of that Caribbean andBajan coming through in the newalbum.

Who is Leigh Phillips


��.((3�<285�&23<�2)�+($7�:,7+�<285�/8&.<��180%(5�

�:LQQLQJ�QXPEHUV�ZLOO�EH�SXEOLVKHG�LQ�WKH�IROORZLQJ�)ULGD\¶V�(GLWLRQ�

��&$//�+($7�$7��72�&2//(&7�<285�35,=(

��.((3�&+(&.,1*�($&+�:((.�)25�025(�&+$1&(6�72�*(7�/8&.<�

��:,11(56�0867�&/$,0�7+(,5�35,=(6�:,7+,1��'$<6�$)7(5�'$7(�2)�38%/,&$7,21�

�IVL�aW]�PI^M�I�KPIVKM�\W�

I�XZQbM�M^MZa�.ZQLIa�_Q\P


ZULU International has long set itself apart asone of the premier costume bands for the CropOver season. ‘Welcome to Paradise’ is the themefor this year’s band and focused on keepingtheir brand innovative they hosted a virtuallaunch on their social media platforms. This wasfollowed by a pop-up costume viewing andpromotion on Saturday evening at the SheratonMall.

When asked about why this venuewas chosen, Aundre Wharton,General Manager of the bandshared, “It’s the best location for awide cross section of the population.It wasn’t necessarily only aboutshowcasing to potential customers

but endearing the culture and thefestival to the younger generationthat would have been present also.”This location was a smart choice bythe organisers of the band since theycaptured the audience of persons whomay not have traditionally opted toattend a band launch.

Continued on Next Page

‘Welcometo Paradise’‘Welcometo Paradise’

Crystallised designed by David Dewer.


Continued from Previous Page

A mini carnival vibe was created as thecostumed models snaked their wayalong the packed halls of the mall thatliterally has it all. Preceded by a rhythmictuk band, agile Mother Sally andacrobatic shaggy bears, the modelscaptivated their audience with theirseductive, bright hued pieces. Manyclamoured for their cameras to capture

the spectacle and the magnificentcostumes. Sections include ‘Andromeda’designed by Kirk Thomas, ‘Sandaled’designed by King Kreative while DavidDewer was credited with creating ‘CityLights’, ‘Crystallised’ and ‘SunkenTreasure’. Their all-female section, whichwas a hit in previous years, has beenmaintained in the 2019 instalment of theband and patrons who enjoyed thatexperience can chose from ‘City Lights’

or ‘Andromeda’.Management of the band has taken a

more strategic approach to developingthe Zulu VIP experience. At the top oftheir list is impeccable customer servicewith a package that promises spectacularcostumes, firm and friendly security,ample drinks and food and the hottestDJs from around the Caribbean, all withthe goal of providing the “Greatest timeon the road”.

Zulu International has big things plansfor the season and have partnered withIcebox Entertainment from Trinidad andTobago to do a Foreday Morning Jam onAugust 3rd. This package includespremium drinks and the choice of ashirt/monokini. ‘Jamparked’ promises tohave all the key ingredients for an epicJ’ouvert party. It will be full of vibes withan abundance of paint, water andpowder. (ST)

Andromeda

CityLights

Sandaleddesignedby KingKreative.

SunkenTreasure

One of themale options.Sheraton was transformed into a mini carnival.

Mini carnival vibe takes over Mall


TAKE a little time to enjoy this tea!

Excitement is building for the releaseof a new book titled “Ladies Who Punch:The Explosive Inside Story of The View”.Written by Variety’s New York bureauchief Ramin Setoodeh, the project takesan inside look into ABC’s long-runningdaytime talk show.

Lucky for pop culture fans, many current and former co-hosts agreed to participate in the project. And yes,they’re ready to talk.

In a new excerpt from the book firstposted by Vulture, Jenny McCarthyopens up about her experience as the11th co-host on the show.

And although she only appeared forone season between 2013-2014, that doesn’t mean Jenny has little to share.We’re taking a look at just some of hershocking claims that may just become the next “Hot Topic”.

1. Gone Too Soon: Jenny’s arrival to thetalk show came on the heels of ElisabethHasselbeck leaving the show. Accordingto Jenny, some producers wished the outspoken republican had stayed at thetable longer. “They did try to change me. They wanted Elisabeth back, and I

wasn’t Elisabeth. I would literally havemeetings before the show of them tryingto input opinions in me to go againstWhoopi,” she claimed. “I was going towork crying. I couldn’t be myself. Everyday I went home and I was miserable. Itreally was the most miserable I’ve beenon a job in my twenty-five years of showbusiness.”

2. How Do I Look? It’s no secret thatthe ladies of The View have some help inthe fashion department, thanks to stylistsand glam squads. But according to Jenny,Barbara was always much more curiousto see what she was wearing. “Barbarawould check out what I was wearing. Ifshe didn’t agree with it, or it didn’t com-plement her outfit, I had to change,” TheMasked Singer judge shared. “Mind you,she doesn’t look at anyone’s clothes butmine. There were times when she’d saychange, and she’d make people run outand get that dress in her size. I was ahuman Barbie doll.”

3. Family Feud: If you ever wonderedif Barbara Walters and Whoopi Goldberggot along away from the cameras, wemay have an answer. “The table reminds me a little bit of Survivor. There

was a war between Barbara and Whoopiabout Barbara wanting to moderate. Thisis one of the reasons I decided not to allywith Whoopi,” Jenny explained in thebook. “It broke my heart when Barbarawould shuffle to Whoopi and say, ‘Can Imoderate please?’ And Whoopi wouldsay no.”

4. Bad Reviews: Jenny became a real-life “Hot Topic” when she released herbook “Louder Than Words: A Mother’sJourney in Healing Autism”. In the book,Jenny argued that vaccines weakenedher son’s immune system and possiblytriggered his autism. It’s a claim Barbarastrongly disagreed with, according to theauthor. “I walked into her dressing roomand she blew up at me,” Jenny recalledwhen visiting as a guest. “She wasscreaming, ‘How dare you say this! Thatautism can be cured?’ My knees wereshaking. I remember my whole body wasshaking… This lasted for about sevenminutes. Finally, someone pulled me outof the room. I went back to my dressingroom, not knowing what the f--k to do.One of my heroes just chewed me a newa--hole, and I’m going on live TV.”

5. A Better Offer: According to Ramin,

Jennypur-

sued anopportunity

with CBS for herown daytime show that would be filmedin Chicago where she lived with her son.One of her concerns, however, was thatshe would become another celebrity witha flop in the afternoon. “I would ratherbe on a show that’s established,” she toldherself. Ultimately, she went with ABC.And if the network couldn’t have gottenJenny, comedian Ali Wentworth was another option.

5 shocking claimsfrom Jenny McCarthy

– about Barbara Walters and The View

Jenny McCarthyon The View.

JESSICA SIMPSON and husband EricJohnson have welcomed their third

child together. The 38-year-old fashiondesigner gave birth to daughter Birdie

Mae Johnson on Tuesday in LosAngeles. Baby Birdie, who weighed

10 lbs., 13 oz., joins brother Ace Knute,5, and sister Maxwell Drew, 6.

The former pop singer announced shewas expecting in September, over a yearafter saying she was done having kids.

“This little baby girl will make us afamily of five,” she exclaimed. “We

couldn’t be happier to announce this precious blessing of life.”

Simpson didn’t have the easiest preg-nancy the third time around, which she

documented on social media. Earlierthis month, she returned home after

spending a week in the hospital for bronchitis, her fourth time in

two months.“Coughing with Birdie has been a

crazy painful journey,” she exclaimed.“I am slowly getting healthier everyday. Baby girl was monitored and is

doing amazing!”The Dukes of Hazzard actress also

had severe acid reflux.And incredibly swollen ankles.

But it was all worth it. As for themoniker of Simpson and Johnson’s newlittle girl, “Birdie is a family name” onthe singer’s side, according to People.

Well wishes have been pouring in onsocial media for the new family of five.“Welcome to the world Baby Birdie!!!!”

Busy Philipps commented.

JessicaSimpson gives

birth todaughter BirdieCORY BOOKER didn’t expect his

“boo”, Rosario Dawson, to go publicwith their secret romance.

“She was visiting me in D.C., andthen she left for the airport and got am-bushed,” the New Jersey senator and2020 Democratic presidential hopefulsaid on Wednesday’s Ellen DeGeneresShow. “I suddenly get this little videofrom her saying, ‘I got TMZed,’” refer-ring to the website that has paparazzistaked out at airports. “‘I don’t havemakeup on.’ This and this and that.…But it was wonderful.”

Booker, 49, admitted that as their “re-lationship grows, it’s difficult” becausea lot of attention will be paid to it – ashe makes his bid for the White House.But she’s worth it.

“She’s just an incredible humanbeing,” he gushed about the 39-year-oldSin City actress. “She is just a deeplysoulful person and has taught me a lot of lessons about love already.Sometimes you show your greateststrength when you make yourself vulnerable.”

He continued, “She has a nurturingspirit that has made me more coura-geous, not just in love that I project andwant to see in our country, but I thinkeven in our own personal relationships– to love more fearlessly.”

He ended by saying, “I am very, very blessed to be with somebody whomakes me a better person.”

DeGeneres offered to officiate theirwedding if he becomes president and they wed while he’s in the WhiteHouse. “So you’re saying if Rosario andI get there, wait?” he replied. “Don’t do

the marriage before January 2021?”Dawson spilled the beans about the

romance last week Thursday at ReaganNational Airport in Arlington, Va. “I amjust grateful to be with someone that Irespect and love and admire so much,”she told the paparazzi without breakingher stride. She added that Bookerwould be an incredible president andshowed off a Booker campaign buttonshe had on her purse.

Dawson – who is raising the teendaughter she adopted in 2014, Lola –has appeared in a slew of movies dur-ing her career, which began after shewas discovered outside her New YorkCity apartment building and cast in1995’s Kids. She can next be seen inNetflix’s romantic comedy SomeoneGreat, out in April, followed byZombieland: Double Tap, which will bereleased in October.

Cory Booker says Rosario Dawson revealed theirsecret romance because she ‘got ambushed’

Cory Booker and Rosario Dawson.


LEE DANIELS is once again addressingthe scandal and drama surrounding theEmpire star Jussie Smollett.

The show’s writer and creator up-loaded an Instagram video onWednesday night just hours before themost recent episode aired. Apparently, ithad some details in it regardingSmollett’s character that seem a bit less-than-coincidental. In his video, Danielscandidly discussed his feelings (afterbrushing his teeth) about everything thathas transpired over the past few weeksand months regarding Smollett and thespeedy 180 that occurred after his Jan. 29attack, which he is suspected of orches-trating.

Daniels talked about the emotionalwave that has taken over himself and theentire Empire cast. The show is currentlyin its fifth season and he compared the re-cent weeks to “a freaking roller coaster.”He told the camera, “We – me and mycast – have experienced pain, and anger,and sadness and frustration, and we re-ally don’t know how to deal with it.”

The 59-year-old expressed to theEmpire and Star fans that what hap-pened on tonight’s episodes was made“prior to the incident.” He assured, “Thisis not what the show was made for.”

Daniels then opened up about theshow’s meaning and what he hoped itwould symbolize for the country.

“This show was made to bringAmerica together,” he said. “To talkabout the atrocities right now on thestreets.”

Daniels wrote in his caption that he

was “finally ok!!!” to talk about it.Although he never mentioned Smollettby name, it was abundantly clear that theactor and the frenzy surrounding his casewere the central part of his message.

In the early hours of Jan. 29 in Chicago,Smollett was hospitalized after two menallegedly attacked him, sprayed him witha chemical and tied a noose around hisneck while yelling homophobic andracist slurs. It later came out that thesemen supposedly yelled, “MAGA coun-try!” in the middle of it. Police were look-ing into it as a “possible hate crime.”

Days later, two brothers were arrestedas suspects and then released. Smollett’scase took a major turn on Feb. 16 whenthe Chicago Police Department said theyhad “shifted the trajectory of the investi-gation” and it happened one day afterthe brothers were released. Many outletsreported around that time that Smollettallegedly paid the brothers, OlabinjoOsundairo and Abimbola Osundairo,$3,500 beforehand and then allegedlypromised $500 more after.

On Feb. 20, Smollett was “officiallyclassified as a suspect” and then arrestedone day later on charges of disorderlyconduct for filing a false police report.He was then released on a $100,000 bondand went back to the Empire set.

Smollett’s attorneys said in a state-ment at the time, “Like any other citizen,Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption ofinnocence, particularly when there hasbeen an investigation like this one whereinformation, both true and false, has beenrepeatedly leaked. Given these circum-

stances, we intend to conduct a thoroughinvestigation and to mount an aggressivedefense.”

The 36-year-old actor was indicted on16 felony counts by a grand jury andpleaded not guilty.

After Smollett was released from jail,Chicago Police Superintendent EddieJohnson said in a press conference thatthe actor orchestrated it all “because hewas dissatisfied with his salary, so heconcocted a story about being attacked.”

Smollett’s attorney refuted, “Jussieadamantly maintains his innocence evenif law enforcement has robbed him ofthat presumption.”

At first, the show and network saidSmollett’s character Jamal Lyon wouldnot be written off the show. However,Empire’s executive producers Daniels,Danny Strong, Brett Mahoney, BrianGrazer, Sanaa Hamri, Francie Calfo andDennis Hammer released a statement onFeb. 22 about his future on the popularseries.

“Jussie has been an important memberof our EMPIRE family for the past fiveyears and we care about him deeply.While these allegations are very disturb-ing, we are placing our trust in the legalsystem as the process plays out,” thestatement read. “We are also aware of theeffects of this process on the cast andcrew members who work on our showand to avoid further disruption on set,we have decided to remove the role of‘Jamal’ from the final two episodes of theseason.”

A few weeks later, Empire’s executive

producer Brett Mahoney explained toEntertainment Weekly why it was a “dif-ficult decision” to make.

“It was a very difficult decision, but Ithink in terms of allowing the cast andthe crew to really get the work donewithout a great deal of disruption interms of the day-to-day and the stress ofthe day-to-day, and, in addition, allowingJussie the time to really deal with whathe’s been confronted with and allow himthe time to focus and prepare his case,this seems like the logical decision tomake,” Mahoney said.

Empire Creator Lee Daniels addresses‘pain and anger’ amid Smollett scandal

WENDY WILLIAMS has revealed thatshe’s been living in a sober house.

The 54-year-old talk show host openedup to her viewers on Tuesday’s episodeof The Wendy Williams Show. She toldher fans that she wanted to be truthfuland share her story with them.

“So, you know me for being a verytruthful and open person, and I’ve gotmore to the story for you,” Williams saidduring her show as she held back tears.“You know, Kevin, Kevin and I have theHunter Foundation for the good of thepeople, and we recently launched our888-5Hunter number for those of youcaught up in the struggle of addiction.”

“Well, for some time now, and eventoday and beyond, I have been living ina sober house,” Williams continued.“When you see me come to work,glammed up, right after the show I goacross the street, I do my Pilates. I toldyou, two hours a day or like to take careof my body. And you know I’ve had astruggle with cocaine in my past. And I

never went to a place to get the treat-ment. I don’t know how, except God wassitting on my shoulder and I juststopped.”

“But there are people in your family –it might be you – you have been strug-gling. And I want you to know more ofthe story,” she went on to tell her view-ers, talking directly into the camera.“So, this is my autobiographical story,and I’m living it. I’m telling you this.After I go to the Pilates, I go to severalmeetings all around town in the Tri-statearea. And I see my brothers and sisterscaught up in their addiction and lookingfor help. They don’t know I’m Wendy.They don’t care I’m Wendy. There’s noautographs, there is no nothing. It’s thebrothers and sisters caught up in thestruggle. It’s been really interesting. Thisride.”

Williams then shared that only herhusband, Kevin Hunter, and son, KevinHunter Jr., knew about this.

“Not my parents, nobody. Nobody

knew,” she revealed. “Because I look soglamorous out here.”

“After I finished my appointments,seeing my brothers and sisters, breakingbread, I am driven by my 24-hour sobercoach back to the home that I live in herein the Tri-state with a bunch of smellyboys who have become my family,”Williams shared with her fans. “Theyhog the TV and watch soccer, we talkand read and talk and read and then Iget bored with them. Doors locked by10:00 p.m. Lights out by 10:00 p.m. So I

go to my room, and I stare at the ceilingand I fall asleep to wake up and comeback here to see you. So that is mytruth.”

“And, um... If you – I know, either youare calling me crazy or the bravestwoman you know. I don’t care. If you orsomeone you know – our HunterFoundation just launched last week,”she informed viewers.

It was just weeks ago that Williamsmade an emotional return to her talkshow after a two-month absence.

Tearful WendyWilliams revealsshe’s living in assober house

Wendy Willams during her reveal.

Wendy Willams during her reveal.


Kathy Harper-Hall was recognisedon Saturday night by the BarbadosBoxing Association (BBA) for her

long and unbroken service over the past 42 years.

The BBA held their awards ceremonyat the Embassy of the ArgentineRepublic to Barbados and Harper-Hallwas the lone recipient of the Special 40th Anniversary Award, which wasoriginally scheduled to be presented in 2017 but had to be delayed.

Harper-Hall is the longest servingmember of the BBA, joining threemonths after the organisation wasformed, initially to produce minutesafter the duly elected secretary was hospitalised.

She acted as secretary and then waselected at the following annual generalmeeting, and has served in one form or

the other continuously over 42 years. She has been vice president, secretary,

assistant secretary, treasurer, committeemember, delegate at internationalCongresses, chairman of theAssociation’s tournament and develop-ment sub-committees and worked as thegeneral events coordinator.

Harper-Hall has also served across theEnglish, French and Dutch speakingCaribbean.

She was a founding member of theCaribbean Amateur Boxing Associationwhere she served for 22 years, afterwhich the international body decided tono longer recognise any other body thanthe Continental Bureaus and thus theCaribbean Championships were nolonger possible.

However she was instrumental in getting the Caribbean Development

Boxing tournament going in 2015.Two other long-standing members

who served the BBA for over 30 years –James Marshall and Anthony Jones –were also honoured and bestowed withHonorary Life Membership to the BBAas well as a special service award.

Two of Barbados current leading boxers, Kimberley Gittens and Jabali Breedy, carried off the top performers awards for female and male respectively.

Gittens won bronze at CAC in July2018 in Colombia and also reached thequarter-finals at the CommonwealthGames.

Breedy competed at CAC andCommonwealth Games and both arecharting their path to the Olympics in Tokyo 2020.

Three of the Association’s past top

performers were also recognised and they were Shawn Terry Cox, Junior Greenidge and AndersonEmmanuel.

The youth and junior awards went to Rashawn Holder and Tyree Weekes-Haynes.

Other awardees on the night were:Officials awards – Aubrey Blackett

and Trevor Rowe.

Special Awards – Rowena Walcott,Erskine Simmons, Samuel King (posthumous) and Ria Goodman (media).

Service Awards – Gary Bowen, JoyceBowen, Oliver Marshall, Kelvin Nowell.

Appreciation Award – Ralph Johnson,Barbados Olympic Association.

(CG)

BBBBAA aawwaarrddss lloonngg--ssttaannddiinnggmmeemmbbeerrss,, ttoopp ppeerrffoorrmmeerrss

Argentine Ambassador his Excellency Gustavo Pandiani (left) presents Ralph Johnson with his appreciation Award.

President of the BBA Richard Atwell presents Anthony Jones with his Special Service Award.

Youth and Junior Awardees Tyree Weekes-Haynes (left) and Rashawn Holder. Barbados top female boxer Kimberly Gittens (right) poses

with the Argentine Ambassador Gustavo Pandiani.


Akintunde Hall won the silvermedal in his division of themen’s 200 metres race at the

Dubai Police Sports Club Stadium. It was the men’s turn on day two of theathletics competition of the SpecialOlympics World Games 2019.

He clocked 29:07 seconds, bringingthe Barbados medals total to three.Abbygaile Mayers and Tiffany Branchwon a gold medal each the previousday.

Akintunde’s teammate, TysonBrowne, was also in this race, but didnot finish among the medalists. The 200 metres is an unfamiliar distance for

Tyson, who was only entered in thisevent after his arrival in Abu Dhabi. His time was 30.41seconds, and he captured a fourth place ribbon. He’smore comfortable at the longer 400m and 800m distances. However hegave it his all, exemplifying the SpecialOlympics athletes’ oath, “Let me win,but if I cannot win, let me be brave inthe attempt.”

Both Akintunde and Tyson will compete in the men’s 100 metres later in the Games, but this time in different races. See all the Barbados team reports and results at www.specialolympicsbarbados.org.

Hall adds Silver to Medals haulfor Barbados

From left to right: Head Coach Roger Dyall; athlete Akintunde Hall; athlete Tyson Browne: Assistant Coach Janita Austin.

Barbados athletes Akintunde Hall (left) and Tyson Browne (right).

http://www.specialolympicsbarbados.org


BAYLEY’S Primary Schoolascended to the throne atthe Boys’ 2019 National

Primary Schools’ AthleticsChampionships (NAPSAC);while St. Giles’ Primary suc-cessfully defended the Girls’crown on Tuesday at the UsainBolt Sports Complex.

As expected at the smooth andefficiently run NAPSAC, the ex-hilarating final day of racing sawthe curtain close with a bang.The finish at the top was not aclose one however as Bayley’sand St. Giles’ were the clear vic-tors with 124 and 135 points re-spectively, winning by over 25points in each case.

Bayley’s kept ahead of AllSaints who finished in secondplace with 95 points and St.George Primary in third on 83points. In fourth was defendingBoys’ champions St. AlbansPrimary with a total of 71 points;and rounding out the top fivewas West Terrace Primary with69 points.

Battling their way to secondplace in the Girls’ was Bayley’swith 84 points, third went toCharles F. Broome on 64; andtied for fourth with 54 pointsapiece were Wesley Hall Schoolsand St. Lucy Primary.

The day never saw the defend-ing champions challenged, especially with the Applewhaites– Tia and Tania – taking apart thefield together.

Tia Applewhaite was unbeatenon the day and copped theVictrix Ludorum crown with 30points. She shared the title withthe U-11 division championKenisha Straughn of St.Stephen’s Primary and U-9champion Aaliyah Goodridge ofWesley Hall Schools who alsohad a perfect finals.

Tia Applewhaite started hertitle run with gold in the U-13Girls’ Long Jump with a mark of4.67 metres. After that was the U-13 Girls’ 100m sprint. She had tofight to the end against her sister

CONT’D on Page 25

Bayley’s takeBoys’ title at NAPSAC

St Giles’ Primary defends Girls’ crown

Bayley's Primary School peaked when it counted and are the 2019 NAPSAC Boys’ Champions.

St. Giles’ Primary School, the 2019 Girls’ NAPSAC champions.


CONT’D from Page 24

Tania for the win. The two were theonly finishers crossing the line in under13 seconds. Tia stopped the clock in 12.94,while Tania ran 12.99 seconds. To finishher quest for an unbeaten day Tia againhad to hold on a fast finishing Kadia Rockof St. Stephen’s Primary. Rock finished in26.82 seconds; just behind Applewhaitewith a time of 26.76.

Kenisha Straughn was a force to bereckoned with. She won the U-11 Girls’300m in 46.88 seconds, came from behindto win the 100m in 14.15 and then sealedthe deal with a powerful run in the 200m,clocking 28.93 seconds. AaliyahGoodridge of Wesley Hall Schools mayhave been the smallest of the three Victrixwinners but she was equal to the task.Winning the U-9 Girls’ 80m, 100m and150m in times of 12.24, 15.25 and 23.39seconds respectively, Goodridge was toogood for the rest.

Victor Ludorum Zachary Wall of St.George Primary was the sole holder of

the Victor Ludorum honours with 28points. By the time he rounded the bendin the 300m, he was already motoringalone with the field trailing. He crossedthe line in a record 43.34 seconds, remov-ing his old time of 44.15 seconds. Againhe stamped his authority in the champi-onship when he equalled another record,this time in the U-11 Boys 200m. His timeof 26.81 seconds equalled Raheem Taitt-Best’s time from way back in 2011. JaquonBlackman-Gittens of Reynold Weekeswas the only bringer of bad news forWall. Blackman-Gittens had the betterlean at the tape to capture gold in 13.18seconds, leaving second place for Wall in13.23.

R’Jai Gittens of Reynold Weekes wasthe U-13 Boys’ champion with 23 points,winning the 100m in 13.39 seconds butdown the order in fifth place in theCricket Ball Throw. Gittens’ last hurrahwas placing second in the 200m in 27 sec-onds. Jamarion Mapp of Elliott Belgravewas the gold medalist in the 200m with atime of 26.70. Mapp also was uncatchable

in the U-13 Boys’ 400m in a another sub-minute finish of 59.76 seconds.

With 20 points, Kaiya Warner-Franklinof Charles F. Broome lifted the U-7Girls’title with 20 points. She won the 50mdash in 8.84 seconds and the StandingBroad Jump with a leap of 1.54m. AllSaints Primary’s Shaqoun Brathwaite wasthe U-7 Boys’ champ with 12 points, cap-turing silver in the U-7 Boys’ Tennis BallThrow and was fifth in the StandingBroad Jump.

Ashlyn Simmons of Eden LodgePrimary was the only other athlete to cap-ture an individual record. She started thefinal day of the championships by break-ing her own record of 1:41.08 from earlierin the season with a time of 1:40.75 min-utes. The other records to be broken wereby the champions. Bayley’s U-9 Boys’4x100m Relay team broke the 1:00.73 timewith an effort of 1:00.02 minutes. TheApplewaites helped St. Giles smash theOpen Girls’ 800m Sprint Medley recordof 2:00.04 minutes when they ran 1:58.46.

(AS)

Record breaking St. Giles’ Open Girls 800m Sprint Medley – (From left) AmiraClarke, Tia Applewhaite, Katonia Douglas and Tania Applewhaite.

FEMALE POINTS1. St. Giles GIL – 1352. Bayley’s Primary BAY - 843. Charles F Broome CFB – 644. Wesley Hall School WHS - 544. St. Lucy Primary SLUCY – 546. St. Stephen’s Primary STPP - 537. West Terrace Primary School – 528. Christ Church Girls CCG – 469. Eden Lodge ELPS – 4310. Hillaby Turners Hall HTHP – 3910. All Saints Primary ASP – 3910. Wilkie Cumberbatch WCP – 3913. Hindsbury Primary HINDS – 3614. Good Shepherd Primary GSP – 3415. A Dacosta Edwards ADE – 2115. Luther Thorne Memorial LTMP – 2115. Selah Primary SELAH – 2118. Mount Tabor Primary MTP – 2019. Blackman and Gollop BG – 1620. St. Judes Primary SJUDE – 1521. Gordon Greenidge Primary GGP – 15

MALE POINTS1. Bayley’s Primary BAY – 1242. All Saints Primary ASP – 953. St. George Primary SGP – 834. St. Albans Primary SAP – 715. West Terrace Primary WTPS – 696. St. Cyprian’s Boys’ School SCBS – 637. Reynold Weekes Primary RWP – 508. Milton Lynch Primary MLP – 499. Luther Thorne Memorial LTMP – 4610. Elliott Belgrave Primary EBP – 4211. Good Shepherd Primary GSP – 4112. Hillaby Turners Hall HTHP – 3313. Eden Lodge Primary ELPS – 3014. Vauxhall Primary VPS – 2615. St. Judes Primary SJUDE – 2216. St. Paul’s Primary PAUL – 2116. St. Giles’ Primary GIL – 2116. Wesley Hall Schools WHS – 2119. St. Stephen’s Primary STPP – 2019. Hilda Skeene Primary HSP – 2021. St. Gabriel’s SGA – 14

DIVISION CHAMPIONS5-6 FemaleKaiya Warner-Franklin CFB – 20Kalia Curwen WTPS – 10Nya Chefoon CFB – 10

5-6 MaleShaqoun Brathwaite ASP – 12Jaedan Hinds-Grazette WCP – 11Dimitri Hippolyte SAP – 10Amir Quimby HSP – 10

7-8 FemaleAaliyah Goodridge WHS – 30Makayla Griffith SLUCY – 24Tianna Burke BAY – 20

7-8 MaleShai Thorne BAY – 25Kato Morris VPS – 21Shakobi Gittens BAY – 18

9-10 FemaleKenisha Straughn STPP – 30Alexis Mascoll HINDS – 21Shakayra Gaskin BAY – 14

9-10 MaleZachary Wall SGP – 28Jaquon Blackman-Gittens RWP – 24Aidan Moore SCBS – 21Nathan Cumberbatch GIL – 21

11-12 FemaleTia Applewhaite GIL – 30Ashlyn Simmons ELPS – 23Aniya Nurse HTHP 20

11-12 MaleR’Jai Gittens RWP – 23Jamarion Mapp EBP – 20Isaiah Marshall SAP – 20

Victrix Ludorums (From left) Kenisha Straughn of St.Stephen’s Primary, Tia Applewhaite of St. Giles’ Primaryand Aaliyah Goodridge of Wesley Hall Schools.

Record-breaking final dayAshlyn Simmons of Eden LodgePrimary broke the Open Girls 600mrecord yesterday.

Victor Ludorum Zachary Wall broke two records on the day, theU-11 Boys’ 200m and here in the 300m.

NAPSAC FINAL

Key Indicators Men’s mental health is not often

spoken about in the media. In reality,emotions and the expression of thesefeelings are often centered aroundwomen and can be exaggerated inpopular culture and society. But men’shealth is important and one mentalhealth problem which affects many isdepression.

According to the National Institute ofMental Health, depression is a disorderwhich is displayed differently bywomen and men. In men, signs ofdepression can be seen through theiranger and aggression towards families,friends and medical professionals.Another important element to note isthat men are less likely to talk abouttheir feelings as they think they will beperceived as ”weak” or ”effeminate”.They are also less likely to seek help fortheir depression.

Symptoms of Depression Depression can affect people of any

age. These symptoms include anger,irritability, or aggressiveness, feeling ofanxious, restless, or “on the edge”, loss

of interest in work, family, or once-pleasurable activities, problems withsexual desire and performance, feelingsad, “empty,” flat, or hopeless, poorconcentration, fatigue, insomnia,physical aches, a craving for alcohol ordrugs and withdrawal from family andfriends.

The causes linked to depression caninclude genetic factors, environmentalstress and illness. There are severalcategories of depression includingpsychotic depression, seasonal effectivedisorder, persistent depression disorder,minor depression and bipolar disorder.

Treatment Medication can be prescribed for men

with depression (although they haveharsh side effects) but there are othertreatments as well. These includepsychotherapy, which can help menwork through their emotions andspecific situations in their lives.

It is important to reach out to theindividual when the symptoms aresevere as untreated depression can leadto substance abuse and possiblysuicide.

In the early stages of colorectal cancer,there are no symptoms. If you are aheavy smoker, you are risk of having

the disease increases by thirty percent.This disease is not as known as breast,ovarian or prostate cancer but it is onewhich should not be ignored.

What is Colorectal Cancer? According to the American Cancer

Society, ”Colorectal cancer is a cancerthat starts in the colon or the rectum.These cancers can also be named coloncancer or rectal cancer.” Its genesisoccurs with polyps which can be foundon the lining of the rectum or colon.There are two types, Adenomatouspolyps (adenomas) and Hyperplasticpolyps and inflammatory polyps.The first one adenomatous polyps can sometimes change intocancer.

Other factors which may cause someconcern are the size of the polyps (largerthan 1 cm), if there are more than twoand if there is the presence of dysplasiawhich can show abnormal cells. Cancercan spread from the polyps to the wallsinto blood vessels and lymph nodes.

There are five types of cancer the mostcommon called ”Adenocarcinomas makeup about 96 percent of colorectalcancers.” The others, carcinoid tumors,gastrointestinal stromal tumours,lymphomas and sarcomas are lesscommon.

Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer There are several risk factors for this

type of cancer. It includes being older(over 50), being overweight, physicalinactivity, a diet rich in red meat, cookingmeat at high temperatures, being achronic smoker and using alcohol. Also ifyou have a history or a family history of

polyps, inflammatory bowel disease,Jews of Eastern European descent orAfrican descent, working late shifts arealso risks as well.

Get Tested The American Cancer Society noted

that with early detection, there is a ninetypercent chance of surviving the disease.

Symptoms include change in your bowelhabits, including diarrhea or constipationor a change in the consistency of yourstool, that lasts longer than four weeks,rectal bleeding or blood in your stool,persistent abdominal discomfort, such ascramps, gas or pain, a feeling that yourbowel does not empty completely,weakness or fatigue and unexplained

weight loss.

Make Lifestyle Changes The risk of getting this cancer can be

reduced by making lifestyle changes. Eatmore fibre, fruits and vegetables, drinkalcohol in moderation, exercise regularlyand maintaining a healthy weight canhave specific benefits.


According to the American Cancer Society, ”Colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum.

Men’s mental health is not often spoken about in the media.

What you should know about colorectal cancer

Depression in men

Can you imagine dying fromstarvation and not even knowingit? Unfortunately, this was the fate

of a young cuvier beaked whale that diedin the Davao Gulf of the Philippines onSaturday, March 16.

The researchers found more thaneighty (80 pounds) of plastic in thestomach of the animal. It was reported byForbes magazine that the stomachcontents included “including 16 ricesacks, 4 banana plantation-style bags andmultiple shopping bags” and it was themost plastic seen inside of a whale.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg;plastics are breaking down in ourenvironment as seen in the film, “APlastic Ocean” and it is killing birds andother wildlife. Some scientists and NGOs,(World Health Organisation) are findingmicroplastics (90 percent) in top brands ofbottled water and it is also reported in tapwater.

The Situation In Barbados April 1, Government will be banning

the importation, retail, sale and use ofpetro-based single-use plastic (plasticmade from petroleum) will no longer beallowed in Barbados. Minister ofMaritime Affairs and the Blue Economy,Kirk Humphrey also indicated “ thatJanuary 1, 2020, there will be a ban on allpetro-based plastic bags, with theexemption of those used for the packaging ofpharmaceuticals/medicines, hygiene andthe preservation of food.”

Some businesses which supplycontainers and other plastic materialshave started to reduce the importation ofplastics. They have focused on paper,glass and more organic materials. Butthere are other plastics that creep its way

into our homes and eventually ourlandfills and oceans. These are thepackaging wrappers on pharmaceuticals,boxed items (packing peanuts), plasticsfrom cleaning, food items and those onetime use produce bags.

It Starts With the ManufacturersBig global companies who use plastics

to package their goods must make thechange. In Barbados and other territorieswhich import most of their goods, the

true solution is to foster an environmentwhere we produce more natural andorganic packaging for the foods andproducts that we use and limit thenumber of items which use significantvolumes of non-recyclable or non-reusable plastics.

Our Behaviour Must Change We live in a society where people will

leave an area with an empty trash can todispose of their garbage on the highways

and sidewalks. These articles of garbagecreate a home for vermin and disease aswell as pollute our air and sea. Harsherpenalties are needed for people who litterand dump garbage, educationprogrammes should be mandatory in theschools for parents, teachers and childrenon the consequences of dumping andlittering.

The change can only happen if wemake the decision to adjust ourdestructive behaviours.


By Krystal Penny Bowen

SUCCESS is defined as “a person orthing that achieves desired aims orattains prosperity”. However, I wouldargue that success is not linear, or asingular goal or a collective of goals, it isa lifelong work, it takes time, it takespersistence and it takes discipline.

A successful life means successfulliving. You practice it everyday andaround everyone. It will take having apositive outlook on your situation even ifit does not appear that way at themoment. Author Tom Corley, anaccountant and financial planner,surveyed 233 wealthy individuals,mostly self-made millionaires, on theirdaily habits. He wrote a book called“Change Your Habits, Change Your Life”and these were some of the keytakeaways. Avoiding Time Wasters

It may seem difficult at first but it isimportant if you desire to be a successfulindividual. There are go getters and thereare people who make it their business towaste your time. This could be in theform of sharing videos which do not helpwith your development, gossiping aboutyour family, friends or celebrities,

weighing you down with unimportantfacts, drama and information. You do notneed it. Alternatively , seek outenvironments of enlightenment, peoplewho spend their time creating andthinking about ways to make the worldbetter.

Exercise, Eat Well, Get Adequate Sleep

Successful people know that they musttake care of their mind and body so theycan be the best at what they do.

Ensure that you exercise daily or often,eat a well balanced diet, high in fibre,whole grains and fruits and vegetables.Limit your intake of processed foods andfats while drinking plenty of water. Sleepis another ingredient to working at youroptimum. The body must be able torepair itself and the brain is most activeat these times.

Read More In Corley’s book, more than 80 percent

of successful people read often. Theyconsumed books which dealt with selfimprovement, biographies and history.

Pursue Your Goals and Have Multiple Incomes

Your personal goals whether long orshort term should always be a priority.Learning a new skill, how to speakSpanish, learning to cook ,it is a fun wayof continuing your development andenriching your abilities. It could evenbecome another venture for you in the

future. Most successful people have atleast three sources of income. This couldbe in the form of investmentopportunities or real estate. The aim ofthis is to insulate yourself from ruin ifthere is a downward shift in theeconomy.

Successful people know that they must take care of their mind and body so theycan be the best at what they do.

Moving towards a plastic free society

Some businesses which supply containers and other plastic materials have started to reduce the importation of plastics.

Habits ofsuccessful people

NEW ZEALANDERS are gathering to thump chests,stomp feet and stick out their tongues -- staging im-promptu performances of the haka war dance to showsolidarity with a Muslim community shattered by themass shooting in Christchurch.

Kiwis ranging from heavily tattooed bikers to businessexecutives, children and the elderly have lined up to per-form the intimidating ceremonial dance which beginswith fierce chants roughly translated as "I Live! I Die!"

As the country struggles to respond to the horrifictragedy, it was perhaps inevitable that many would turnto the haka -- a dance whose origins lie with the indige-nous Maori community but which has become a globalsymbol of New Zealand as the battle cry of its nationalrugby team, the All Blacks.

The aggressive ritual and threatening histrionics mayseem out of step with the sombre atmosphere grippingthe nation after Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australianand avowed white supremacist, allegedly gunned down50 Muslims during prayers last Friday..

But the haka is not only meant to intimidate, but alsoto mourn, melding both hostility and beauty into an out-pouring of true emotion, said Te Kahautu Maxwell, aprofessor of Maori at Waikato University.

"Haka is used for death and mourning. It is an integralpart of the Maori mourning process. Haka is used toshow love and compassion. Haka is used to uplift thespirits of bereaved families," Maxwell said.

With their eyes bulging while bellowing out the rit-ual's loud rallying cries, tattooed members of one ofNew Zealand's biggest criminal biker gangs joined withlocal children to channel that emotion through a haka forrelatives of the dead gathered near Christchurch hospitalthis week.

Other haka performances have burst forth acrossChristchurch and elsewhere in the country as well as inAustralia, where large communities of New Zealanderslive.

The haka stirs strong emotions in shooting survivorKawthar Abulaban.

She was in Christchurch's Al Noor mosque when theshooting erupted, eventually escaping through the backdoor.

In the days since, she has repeatedly watched videosof the haka performances staged in response to the mas-sacre, welling up each time.

"Because you can feel it when you see them. You feel it,it touches your heart. Every time I see it I cry, it meanstoo much,” she said.

According to Maori legend, the haka originated at thebeginning of time as a gift from Tanerore, the son ofTama-nuira, the sun god.

"Just as heat haze shimmers on a hot summer's day, inthe haka all parts of the body shake from the crown tothe soles of one's feet," Maxwell said, describing the in-tended meaning behind the dance's movements.

Lisa Tumahai, who heads the Ngai Tahu, the mainMaori iwi, or tribe, on New Zealand's South Island, saidit was a natural reaction by Kiwis looking to show sup-port for their Muslim neighbours.

"No matter how angry or scared we are feeling at themoment, we must come together as one strong commu-

nity to show care and compassion for those who madeAotearoa their home and who have now lost preciousloved ones," she said.

Aotearoa, or "land of the long white cloud", is theMaori name for New Zealand.

Schools, Maori tribes and sports teams will each havetheir own haka, and the version performed by the AllBlacks, called "Ka mate, Ka mate", tells of a 19th-centurywarrior, Te Rauparaha, who hid in a food storage pit toescape his enemies.

The opening life-and-death chant reflects TeRauparaha pondering his fate.

Maxwell said the haka reflected the overwhelmingsadness following the massacre, as Kiwis grapple withthe "fact we have been invaded and this terrible act hasbeen committed on our shores."

Maxwell added that as Muslim victims came underfire last week, "you can imagine they were thinking 'am Igoing to live? am I going to die?'"


WHEN Afghan refugee Abdul Aziz saw a man bran-dishing a gun outside his mosque in Christchurch, heran towards the attacker armed with the only weaponhe could find -- a hand-held credit card machine.

Seven people were killed when a white supremaciststormed Linwood Masjid -- the second mosque he at-tacked on Friday -- as worshippers knelt to pray.

But the death toll could have been much higher if notfor the heroic actions of Aziz, an Australian citizen,whose efforts to distract and chase the gunman awayhave attracted widespread praise.

"You don't have much time to think, whatever youthink of, you just do it, you know," Aziz told AFP, brush-ing off the "hero" tag as local Muslims gathered to thankhim for saving relatives and friends.

"I just wanted to save as much lives as I could, even ifI lose my life."

Aziz and his four sons were worshipping at themosque when they heard the loud cracks of gunfire out-side the building.

Initially thinking someone was setting off firecrackers,Aziz became suspicious and ran out of the mosque,grabbing a small credit card processing device.

Outside, he was stunned to find an armed man wear-ing military-style fatigues.

"At first, I didn't know if he was the good guy or thebad guy. But when he started swearing, I knew he wasnot the good guy," he said.

Aziz hurled the machine at Tarrant and then ducked

between cars as the self-confessed fascist unleashed abarrage of shots at him.

Aziz then heard one of his sons call out, "Daddy,please come back inside!"

Unhurt, he picked up an empty shotgun the gunmanhad discarded and shouted "come on here" repeatedlyin an effort to draw him away from his sons and theother worshippers.

"When he see the gun in my hands, I don't know whathappened, he dropped the gun and I chased him withmy own gun... I managed to throw the gun on his carand smash the car window, and I could see he was a bitfrightened."

The 48-year-old kept chasing the attacker as he spedoff in his car. The gunman was apprehended by twoarmed police officers soon afterwards.

Aziz returned to the mosque where he was met byscenes of carnage. Dead bodies were strewn around themosque, among them his close friends.

"When I close my eyes, I still see bodies everywhere,"he said. "We are all still in shock, but what can you do.You cannot bring them back."

Then came another shock.Aziz said police who arrived after the shooting

blocked him from re-entering the mosque, thinking hemight have been the gunman as he was seen earlierwith the weapon.

"For a long time, I didn't know if my kids were aliveor dead or injured because I couldn't go inside the

mosque," Aziz said. He later found out all his sons hadsurvived.

Aziz arrived in Australia as a child refugee. He livedin Sydney for almost three decades before moving toChristchurch two-and-a-half years ago.

He says he has nothing but contempt for the attacker."A lot of people tell him he is a gunman. But... a man

never hurts anybody. He is not a man -- he is a coward,"Aziz said.

He said he was overwhelmed by the outpouring ofsupport from his neighbours after the attacks.

"There's very nice people around here. When I wenthome last night, my wife told me all the neighbours,they sent flowers... cards, foods, cakes. They showed alltheir love.

"That's why I love New Zealand – you won't get thatsort of love and that sort of respect anywhere."

Hero refugee chasedgunman away from New Zealand mosque

Abdul Aziz

Using haka to heal after attacks

Kiwis – from tattooed bikers to school students – have lined up to perform the intimidating ceremonial dance.


COMICS…COMICS…COMICS…COMICS…COMICS


ARIES (March 21-April 19). Arguments over jointfinances are draining. You're tired of going over thesame old ground. Talking to a money manager canbe helpful. Fights about money are power struggles.Having an objective third party will allow you andyour partner to find some common ground. If you'resingle, a source of unearned income will end.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Don't neglect your bestfriend or romantic partner. Although you have a greatdeal on your mind, it's important to be sensitive to theneeds of others. When you're fearful about the future,it helps to come to the aid of your nearest and dearest.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). It's important to fulfilwork responsibilities. Neglecting certain duties willcreate serious problems for colleagues. Do your bestto cross everything off your 'To Do' list, even if itmeans staying late. Your diligence will be rewardedin the form of a raise or promotion. It may feel likeyour contributions aren't noticed, but they are.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You've been having awonderful time, but duty is calling. Get back tobusiness, even if it creates an initial wrench. A hard-working friend will be happy to get you back ontrack. When your spirits droop, look in their direction.Their calm assurance will inspire you to do better.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Domestic responsibilities arewearing on your nerves. You're starting to feel likeyour home is a prison. When this happens, you mustget a change of scenery. Ask a trusted friend or relativeto assume your responsibilities while you take a shorttrip out of town.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Your views aren'tsuperior to anyone else's. By practicing tolerance forother people's ideas, you'll save yourself a great dealof stress. It's difficult to find consensus in thesedivisive times. That doesn't mean it's impossible toreach common ground.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Irresponsible spendingwill create more trouble than it's worth. Practicefinancial restraint so you can cover necessaryexpenses. A generous relative who appreciates yoursensible behaviour may buy some supplies for you.These stores will sustain you through this economicpinch.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You're not asindispensable as you think. Instead of acting likeyou're the most important person in the Universe,find ways to be of service. Your humble attitude willattract the respect of neighbours and relatives. Don'tbe surprised when your helpful attitude attracts smallgifts of appreciation.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Indulging inescapist tendencies won't solve a problem. You havean opportunity to improve your financial situation,but it requires taking practical steps. Send out a slewof job applications, practice your interviewing skillsand assemble an impressive portfolio.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Don't ask a friend topull strings on your behalf. This request will makethem feel awkward and uncomfortable. It's better togo through official channels, even though it will takemore time than you'd like. There are worse fates thanhaving to fill out complicated forms.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Using your influencefor selfish reasons will create resentment. It's best towait in line with everyone else. When you do have achance to assert your power, do it on behalf of peoplewith less power. This will make you a trusted figureat work who is able to produce impressive results. It'seasy to get help when others know you are in theircorner.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Just because you feelstrongly about an issue doesn't mean other peopleshould. Resist the temptation to convert your nearestand dearest. By showing respect for their beliefs,they'll show you the same courtesy.

HOROSCOPES‘Five Things You Probably Didn’t Know About...’

1. He received a prestigious honor from Time magazineJames Corden got a pretty big nod from Time magazine in2016 when he was named one of the 30 most influentialpeople on the internet! His Carpool Karaoke segmentshave racked up more than a billion views on YouTube.James explained to Deadline how they came up with theconcept. "We understood that for our show to reach thebiggest audience it can, we have to embrace the internet,"he said.

2. He's a married manSorry ladies, but he's taken! James Corden met Julia Careyback in 2010 when they were introduced by his formerroommate, Dominic Cooper. They ended up tying the knottwo years later in September 2012.

3. He's also a proud fatherJames Corden has three children with wife Julia Carey: sonMax, 6, daughter Carey, 3, and another daughter, who wasborn in December 2017. He moved his young family fromEngland to Los Angeles in 2014 after taking over hostingduties on "The Late Late Show" and asked pal DavidBeckham for tips on how to raise children in Californiawhile maintaining their British sensibilities!

4. He has a surprising middle nameA fun fact about James Corden? You'd never be able toguess his middle name! The hilarious host's middlemoniker is traditionally a woman's name -- Kimberly. Butthere's a sweet reason behind it. "Literally every man in myfamily has it – it's a tradition," he once told Heat magazine.

5. He's not a hosting newbieHe's no stranger to hosting award shows! In June 2016,James Corden hosted the Tony Awards in New York City,the first time he took on presenting duties for an Americanaward show. But before that, he frequently hosted the Brits,the British version of the Grammys.

James Corden – is an English actor, comedian, and television host


......SSTTRRAANNGGEE BBUUTT TTRRUUEE......

BRITISH scientists have joined the raceto produce meat grown in the lab ratherthan reared on the hoof.

Scientists at the University of Bath havegrown animal cells on blades of grass, in astep towards cultured meat.

If the process can be reproduced on anindustrial scale, meat lovers might oneday be tucking into a slaughter-freesupply of “bacon”.

The researchers say the UK can movethe field forward through its expertise inmedicine and engineering.

Lab-based meat products are not yet onsale, though a US company, Just, has saidits chicken nuggets, grown from cellstaken from the feather of chicken that isstill alive, will soon be in a fewrestaurants.

Chemical engineer Dr. Marianne Ellis,of the University of Bath, sees culturedmeat as “an alternative protein source tofeed the world”. Cultured pig cells arebeing grown in her laboratory, whichcould one day lead to bacon raisedentirely off the hoof.

In the future, you would take a biopsyfrom a pig, isolate stem (master) cells,grow more cells, then put them into abioreactor to massively expand them, sayspostgraduate student Nick Shorten ofAberystwyth University.

“And the pig’s still alive and happy andyou get lots of bacon at the end.”

To replicate the taste and texture of

bacon will take years of research. Forstructure, the cells must be grown on ascaffold.

At Bath, they’re experimenting withsomething that’s entirely natural – grass.They’re growing rodent cells, which arecheap and easy to use, on scaffolds ofgrass, as a proof of principle.

“The idea was to essentially, rather thanfeeding a cow grass and then us eating themeat – why don’t we, in quotation marks,‘feed our cells grass’,” says Scott Allan, apostgraduate student in chemicalengineering.

“We use it as a scaffold for them to growon – and we then have an edible scaffoldthat can be incorporated into the finalproduct.”

The end product would be pure muscletissue – basically, lean mince, rather thansomething with the taste and texture of achop or steak, which means adding fatcells and connective cells to give it “a bitmore taste”.

For cultured meat to be availablewidely in the future, cells will need to begrown on a very large scale in acommercial facility.

“What we’re doing here is looking todesign bioreactors, and the bioprocessaround the bioreactors, to grow musclecells on a large scale that is economicaland safe and high quality, so we cansupply the muscle cells as cultured meatsto as many people as want it,” says Dr.

Ellis.She envisages taking “primary cells”

from a living or recently slaughteredanimal, or using a population of“immortalised” cells, that will keep ondividing. “Which means that you don’tkill any animals; you have this immortalcell that can be used forever.”

Slaughter-free meat is clearly a bigselling point. Cultured meat might also beof interest to meat lovers who areconcerned about the environmentalproblems that come with livestockproduction.

Richard Parr is managing director forEurope of The Good Food Institute, a non-profit group that promotes alternatives tothe products of conventional agriculture.

He says cell-based meat has thepotential to use much less land and water,produce less carbon dioxide, spare billionsof animals from immense pain andsuffering, and help fight anti-microbialresistance and food contamination.

“It’s also a massive commercialopportunity, which companies,universities and governments shouldseize the opportunity to support andinvest in,” he argues.

According to Marianne Ellis, mostanalysis seems to suggest a significantreduction in greenhouse gases, land useand water use for cultured meat, while theimplications for energy use are less clear.

One recent study found lab-grown meatcould actually be worse for the climatethan conventional meat – although theresearch did not look at water and landuse.

“Cultured meat might be one of thesepromising alternatives to reduceagricultural emissions but until we getmore production data we can’tautomatically assume that for the timebeing,” says the author of the paper, JohnLynch of the University of Oxford.

The researchers at Bath see a futurewhere cultured meat exists alongsidetraditional agriculture.

Illtud Dunsford, co-founder withMarianne Ellis of the biotech start-upCellular Agriculture, comes from a longline of farmers in Wales and is anadvocate of traditional agriculture, butsays there will be a need in the future tomanage farmland for nature, with cattleplaying a role, albeit in much smallernumbers.

“In my little farm in West Wales, ideallywhat I’d like to see is that we kept a rangeof very, very traditional native breeds oflivestock on a very, very small scale to anexceptionally high welfare standard.

“The by-product from their use as aland management tool – whether that’s inclearing land or restoring grasslands –would be the harvesting of cells for theculturing of cell-based meats.”

Lab-grown meat is not expected to beavailable widely for at least five years. Itremains to be seen whether people willwant to eat it, but surveys in the UKsuggest 20% would eat it, 40% wouldn’tand the rest are undecided, with youngergenerations, urbanites and wealthierpeople more open to the idea.

Chris Bryant, a psychologist at theUniversity of Bath, says the three majorconcerns are to do with price, taste, andnaturalness and the related issue of safety.

The third is most difficult to address, hesays, based on “the naturalistic fallacy”,where people reason that natural thingsare good and unnatural things are bad.

Ultimately, then, it will be consumerswho will be the judge of the success orfailure of lab-grown meat.

UK scientists growing ‘bacon’ in labs

ARTIFICIAL

MEAT?Illtud Dunsford is both a farmer and a biotech entrepreneur

You can reduce your carbon foodprint by cutting down on red meats such as beef and lamb.

HEAT is published by HEAT Publications Ltd., Fontabelle, St. Michael. Telephone 228–HEAT OR 467-2092/93

FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019 ICONarchives.etypeservices.com/heat123/Magazine267303/... · 2019. 3. 21. ·...

Documents

Transcript of FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2019 ICONarchives.etypeservices.com/heat123/Magazine267303/... · 2019. 3. 21. ·...