Hundreds of students from forms three – six from secondary schools, including Vessigny Secondary School and Arima Government Secondary School, gathered at the Cheryl Greaves Auditorium on that night as they accepted the invitation to one of the greatest experiences of their lifetime.

They were not only able to have a visual representation of the text The Great Gatsby that they have been studying for the past few months (it’s a text under study in the Literatures in English Syllabus); but they get the opportunity to dress up like ‘dolls’ and ‘old sports’ of the era as they experienced a two hour long theatre in the round, cocktail party theatrical presentation directed and produced by the founder of Milwaz Productions Mr Janieka Tudor, a teacher at Bishop Anstey & Trinity College East sixth form, of Literatures in English and Communication Studies.

They got a chance to ‘live in the moment’.

Milwaz Productions specialises in educational theatre; focusing on deepening and challenging students’ powers of analysis; when given the opportunity to watch words escape pages and see actors bring words to life, therefore adding dimensions to craft almost 100 years old, yet still studied; and thus fulfilling anticipation of a literary thirsty audience.

Something powerful happens when students not only get the opportunity to view a live play but to experience all that the era offers; the music, the fashion, the language, the furniture and even the dances. Literatures in English then no longer remains attached to stigmas of tedious readings, it escapes those walls and forces it’s way into the students’ lives permitting them the opportunity to relive the past.

THE cries of persons who are differently- abled become louder as we permeate the many communities across global borders.

Women in particular who are afflicted in one way or other, are sometimes the loudest cry which may or may not fall on deaf ears.

In many jurisdictions, social equality is a rare commodity that is sometimes acquired through different means, that paints a grim picture which purports, that everyone is not entitled to it.

Establishing legal protection for the differently- abled has been at the top of the agenda for more developed nations such as the United States of America and the United Kingdom, which allows them to become more socially inclusive; however, in other parts of the world, there is a paucity of attention for this group.

The voice of the United Nation has also been part of the advocacy for social inclusion of the differently-abled as can be gleaned from the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol which was adopted on December 13, 2006 at the UN Headquarters in New York and opened for signature on March 30, 2007; this is the first comprehensive human rights treaty of the 21st century, and is the first human rights convention to be opened by regional integration organisations. The convention entered into force on May 3, 2008.

Through some of the many activities undertaken by the Int’l Women’s Resource Network both locally and regionally, a number of differently-abled women have complained of being affected constantly by social exclusion despite their equality in talent and education similar to that of their able-bodied equivalents. Some of the common challenges experienced include but are not limited to social stigmatisation, lack of vocational training facilities and associated programmes, discrimination in employment, lack of infrastructural facilities to support the conditions of the differently- abled and sexual abuse.

Effectively treating with this community requires consideration of some very key principles which state that differently-abled individuals must be given an equal opportunity like their able-bodied counterparts to perform work for which they are suitably qualified; they should be given the opportunity to accept suitable jobs with employers of their choice and most importantly, the major focus of engagement should be on their abilities and work potential and not on their disabilities.

Social inclusion of the differently-abled starts with a shift in mindset and human acceptance… remember every creed and race must have an equal place.

Social Inclusion of the Differently-Abled is one of the many social issues which will be addressed at the Conference – The Power Within: Love Your Body, Love You on January 26. Book your space now – call us at 638-1083, 268-6078 and 684-6982.

To obtain a copy of the book With Women in Mind call 283-0318 or 795-9531.

Sandrine Rattan is a Communications/ Branding Consultant/ Author and President of the International Women’s Resource Network (IWRN) Contact: thecorporatesuitett@ gmail.com or intlwomensresourcenetwork@ gmail.com

Each year, in celebrating the achievements over the last 12 months, the company recognises the employee who best exemplifies its values, by awarding the Golden Pepper.

This year’s Golden Pepper was awarded to Account Executive Keitha Oliver.

Oliver is a marketing practitioner who has worked with brands such as RBC, Caterpillar and Courts. Her career spans a variety of sectors, including retail banking, construction, pharmaceutical and FMCG. She holds a Masters in Marketing from the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business. She joined Pepper a year ago, and is responsible for several main clients in retail, hospitality and insurance markets.

Liliana Ragbir-Sookaran, team lead Client Services, said that “Keitha’s strength is that she is both empathetic and responsive to clients’ needs. She’s prepared to do whatever it takes to serve her clients and in this business, those are key traits to possess.

Her Master’s Degree and broad working experience in Marketing has allowed her to bring strong business credentials to the table.” Ragbir-Sookaran added, “Keitha gets involved in agency life. She embraces the idea that when you enjoy what you do, you do a better job.” Pepper Advertising, was earlier this year honoured with two Gold Awards at the Advertising Agencies Association of Trinidad and Tobago (AAATT

The single, “Rude Gyal” is a collaborative track done with “Drink King”, Kerry John — one part of the Millionaire Family and Pandemic Squad of which Destra Garcia is also a part, Gamba is set to show Carnival lovers that just as much she’s capable of holding her own on the reggae and dancehall circuit, she can deliver strongly when it comes to Soca.

“Rude Gyal’ was produced by Badjohn Republic – a subsidiary production team of Precision Productions that is steadfast in its approach to creating music that’s influenced by the original rhythms of TT and energised by the various elements of world music. Gamba says she was encouraged by those around her to delve hard into soca. For the most part, last year, she has marketed herself as a reggae and dancehall artiste, so this particular move means that she’ll certainly be opening herself up to many possibilities.

The song, now completed, is set for distribution to radio stations across the country, and the Caribbean, this week. “I’m excited about this. I anticipate the feedback – whichever way it goes. No matter what, I can only become stronger in the aftermath of this release,” said Gamba. She’s been working hard to claim her space in the Caribbean music industry and each time she releases new music, she knows her signature style reaches someone new.

“That’s what faith is all about.

I’ve got all the faith in the world and I know that with the right attitude in this game, the will to make the moves that are required and the talent to back it up, the sky’s the limit,” she said.

Kerry John meanwhile – her partner on the new single, is enjoying the ride of his already pronounced hit single, “Drink King”.

He anticipates that “Rude Gyal” will add to the momentum of his upcoming season and with nothing but good vibes and smiles, John is focused on the journey into Carnival 2017.

For more on Keturah Gamba, visit her social pages, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ keturahgamba.

There are over a hundred reasons for hair loss, but the most disturbing ones are those that result in permanent balding with scalp scarring.

This condition is called Cicatrical Alopecia, commonly known as scarring alopecia, which is a rare disorder that damages hair follicles, and replaces it with scar tissue – causing permanent hair loss.

Cicatricial alopecia is not a contagious disease, but it affects men and women of all ages.

There are various types of scaring alopecia, but today, we will focus on Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA), which is more common in middle-aged women of colour. CCCA has a lot of predisposing factors – from incorrect hair practices to genetics.

But the definitive cause remains unknown.

You might be wondering what common hair practices contribute to the development of such disease. Let me provide some details.

•Use of hot comb – Prior to the invention of the modern tools that are used to straighten out wavy or curly hair, there was the infamous hot comb. Yes, your hair can be silky smooth after hot combing. However, heat opens up your pores, and when you apply it on your head while combing, your follicles are more vulnerable to damage. Hence your hair becomes frizzy, dry and more prone to breakage.

•Relaxers – Although there is no scientific proof that relaxers can cause scarring alopecia, you have to consider that chemicals, especially sodium hydroxide, are very irritating to the hair follicles.

Once your hair follicles are irritated, scarring may take place. I must mention, however, that manufacturers, being aware of this, have been producing relaxers with less harsh chemicals.

It is up to you to ensure that your hairdresser is keeping up to date on your hair treatments, so that your scalp will not be over exposed to chemicals.

•Tight extensions and weaves – These hair aesthetics, if done improperly, can place your hair and scalp under constant tension that can lead to follicular inflammation.

If inflammation is prolonged, scarring is possible.

Now, with that being explained, I am sure that you will be mindful of how you style your hair on a daily basis.

But, how do you know if you are experiencing CCCA? Below are the common signs and symptoms.

•Significant increase in hair fall and breakage; •Hair loss from the crown or mid-centre area; •The follicular openings are plugged with tissue, causing the scalp to appear shiny; •Itchiness and a burning sensation in the affected area.

If you have noticed any of the symptoms above, you should consult your physician immediately to prevent exacerbation of these manifestations.

But as I have always emphasised, the best action when it comes to hair and scalp health is to contact a certified trichologist, who is specifically trained to assist you in identifying the reasons for your hair loss.

Your hair may seem less important than the other parts of your body, but its influence, especially to your body image, is just as significant. As I always say, beauty starts from within, take care of yourself and it will show from your skin to your hair.

Germaine Williams- Beckles
Doctor of Trichology (DT T?CT)
Nutrition Consultant (NC)
Motivational Speaker,
Coach, Mentor, Trichologist
Rayogee Wellness
Lifestyle
Woodbrook, Port-of- Spain, Trinidad WI
Websites:germainewilliamsbeckles.com, geesexclusive.com
Contact: 1-868-627-4659

The Glenn Mendez- trained speedster took up the running at the halfway stage of the 1100 metres event on the turf course, but juwst held on to beat a fast-finishing Thisonesforron.

The versatile Thisonesforron, winner of the Gold Cup on Boxing Day last week, broke slowly and was seen nmear the rear of the field until jockey Kerron Khelawan produced the Canadian- bred runner with a trenendous run down the straight which just failed.

Earlier, Blind Date won the co-feature Stud Farm Association Trial Stakes for locally- bred maidens over 1350 metres.

This was one of a treble for jockey Brian Boodramsingh on the day’s ten-race programme, who also landed King Ronan and Jacob’s Dream.

And it was the first of a double for trainer John O’Brien who is seeking to regain his title from arch-rival Glenn Mendez who also saddled a double on the day’s card.

Boodramsingh (B), champion jockey in 2011, 12, 13, 14, signalled his intent in regaining the title now held by Ronald “Tiger”

“I will always consider every player with a Trinidad and Tobago passport but I will always take into account what is the attitude of a player so players who show a negative attitude, they have to be double as good and prove that they have the right attitude to come back because we don’t win football matches with quality but we win football matches with commitment at this level,” Saintfiet said.

The Belgium-born head coach added: “I have to form a team that is ready to fight for their country and I am very happy to do that.” Saintfiet welcomed assistant coach Russell Latapy into his squad at Sunday’s training session at the Hasely Crawford Stadium as the team continued its preparations for the upcoming CFU Gold Cup playoff matches against Suriname on Wednesday and Haiti on Sunday at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

Latapy was named as assistant coach to Saintfiet last month and joined the team for the first time on the weekend after returning from Portugal.

“The last two or three weeks I have already had a lot of contact with Russell. Today when he came into the hotel we took some time, we came together to training in the car and we spoke a little bit abo ut my philosophy, about his ideas and about our way to work together. I am very happy that Russell is here,” Saintfiet said.

“Russell is a football man, he knows the country and he has achieved a lot as a player on top level in Europe and on the national team. He has experience also as a coach so I am very happy to add him to the technical team,” he said.

Saintfiet also spoke on the topic of Latapy’s involvement with the youth programme and how their services can be combined to benefit both.

“I think that it’s going hand in hand. I am a coach who proved in other countries not to be afraid to select 16 and 17 year old players to make their debut in the national team because on the end when we develop players, it’s to get them to the national team.

In my own country (Everton striker Romelu) Lukaku was 16 years old when he played with the national team.

So if you are a talented player, maybe not yet discovered by local teams but you are a good talent, you can also have a chance in the senior national team and I will work very closely with Russell and the other national youth coach (Brian) Williams to help the development of football and to bring young players very close to the national team,” the coach added.

Latapy earlier stated that he was looking forward to making his contribution as senior team assistant coach.

Tickets for the upcoming Gold Cup playoff matches are now on sale at all Lotto locations nationwide.

There are season tickets for the three matches costing $100 for adults and $45 for children.

Single match tickets cost $50 for adults and $20 for children

Cyrus and fellow national footballer Jomal Williams were sent home from camp after head coach Tom Saintfeit told the media the pair was smelling of alcohol after arriving to camp at the Cara Suites Hotel in Claxton Bay. Saintfeit stated, “Two players came one and a half hours too late in camp and had still a decent smell of alcohol around them.

That was Daneil Cyrus and Jomal Williams. Both were immediately sent home, back to party.” Cyrus, giving his version of what transpired on New Year’s Day, said he arrived at camp late because of a flat tyre he got in St Helena and said he was not smelling of alcohol.

Cyrus explained that when he arrived at camp he tried to clear the situation but it proved futile.

The W Connection defender explained, “I went to him (Saintfeit) and he ask me to see the flat tyre and when I was going to show him at the same time he said ‘Jomal you smell like alcohol’ and then Jomal said ‘Yes I had a drink with my family.’ And after that I don’t know if that triggered him off and he told both of us to wait out in the lobby and then he came back and said ‘thanks for everything but you could go back and party.’” Cyrus said he did not expect Saintfeit to react like that. “I was shocked because he asked me to see the flat tyre in which I was going to show him. He just went off because Jomal was kinda smelling like alcohol – it wasn’t me he was talking to. When I saw the Newsday and everyone say that both of us showed up smelling stink of alcohol I was shocked because if anybody know me, any of my friends, they know I can’t drink and I don’t drink so I don’t know where all this is coming from.

I just want my name to clear up from this because people thinking I showing up in camp drunk and I drink (alcohol). I don’t drink.” Cyrus, despite being snubbed for the upcoming Gold Cup qualifiers against Suriname on Wednesday and Haiti on Sunday, said he is still 100 percent dedicated and eager to represent the national team. “All the time the commitment is there. If they call (me) back tomorrow (I will go back). I just don’t like the fact that the coach never spoke to me about alcohol, it wasn’t me he was talking to and for him to say both players showed up in camp smelling stink of alcohol, that is wrong.

Even one of my friends posted on Facebook and say ‘if you know Cyrus and you’re his friend, Cyrus does drink one cup of something and Cyrus head start to spin.’” The defender is hoping the situation is resolved soon and he will be back in national colours.

“Once this clear up and everything, I am hoping everything works out for me and the team.

Even if he (Saintfeit) does not include me for these two games (Suriname and Haiti) I just hoping the team could qualify for the Gold Cup and I could get back on the squad as soon as possible because my heart is always with the team.” Calls to Williams’ mobile yesterday proved futile as it went straight to voicemail.

TT face Suriname tomorrow at 7 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, and then play Haiti at 5 pm at the same venue in Gold Cup qualifiers.

Among the 12 rejoicing mothers, was Lima Okeiffie, 39, who gave birth to her third child Jordyn, 14 years after the birth of her second.

Okeiffie was one of five mothers to give birth in North Trinidad on New Year’s Day. Seven other women gave birth in the Southland see story at left). The other four were Christina Sahadeo, 21, from Brazil; Vashti Rampersad from Arouca; Jeunnesse Thomas from Trincity and Kasandra McDonald from Morvant. Okeiffie, who described her daughter as a surprise, in no way appeared less thrilled about her birth. In fact, she said with no uncertainty that her entire family was excited about Jordyn’s birth.

Her first two children Raheem, 14, and Racquel, 16, Okeiffie said, were overjoyed at having a new sibling.

“They’re excited, because you know, this is the new toy,” Okeiffie said. Okieffie, who gave birth at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex in Mt Hope was not sure about when she would be released, but said she hopes it would be sometime today. Jordyn weighed in at 2,950g and was the third baby born at Mount Hope yesterday at 4.18 am.

Meanwhile, thirty-year-old Thomas welcomed her first baby at Port-of-Spain General Hospital.

Thomas’ baby girl, Cirre Thomas, weighed in at 3.16 kgs and was born at exactly 12 midnight – the dawn of the New Year. Baby Cirre was the first babe to be born in this country in 2017. “It’s a euphoric experience…

I think her grandparents have essentially every single thing planned for when she gets home.

I’ll put it this way, if I have to do it over again, I would for her. But it was a very painful experience,” Thomas said.

Thomas admitted that she had been hoping throughout her pregnancy that her daughter would be born on New Year’s Day, since for her, a New Year’s Day birth represents a new beginning. “It’s a new experience, a new journey for me.” Cirre’s birth was followed by the birth of McDonald’s son – at 12.34 am – who is yet to be named.

McDonald admitted that her son’s birth was “painful” but she would do it all over again, “in a heartbeat.” She said that her first two children – Ta’Keyah Guillaume, ten, and Javon Guillaume, four, were anxious to have their new baby brother home. Sahadeo, weary from giving birth to her first daughter Rayhanna, said it felt “nice” being a new mother. She was the first to give birth at Mt Hope at 1.12 am and her daughter weighed in at 2,565g. Rampersad, also gave birth at Mt Hope, to son Chase Emile who was born at 2.46 am.

Police said that Jameel Alambi, 37, had no chance of escaping the inferno which gutted three wooden apartments, one on top each other, in the building. The floor of each apartment was made of wood and Alambi, who lived on the top floor, is believed to have fallen from his apartment home to the one below when fire ate away the flooring. His charred, unrecognisable remains were found near the wheelchair hours after firemen doused the flames. Police sources told Newsday that when the New Year began, shortly after midnight, the sky overlooking the apartment building lit up with firework set off by persons from the Mango Rose area with a firework response from those at nearby Nelson Street. As the ‘war’ continued, sparks from the fireworks from both Mango Rose and Nelson Street ignited the wooden rafters of the apartment complex.

It is believed that the burning roof led to the floor of the top apartment igniting.

Alambi’s mother Roslyn tried her best to get her wheelchair-bound son out of the burning apartment on the third floor. When she could not, she ran out of the apartment to seek help but by then it was too late and the third-floor apartment caved in, followed by a similar collapse of the second floor apartment.

Alambi’s body was found among ruins in the ground floor apartment. His remains were taken to the Forensic Science Centre for autopsy tomorrow.

For most of December, amid the Yuletide Season, debate raged across the country over the wholesale use of fireworks not only at Christmas time but also at Divali and Independence Day much to the detriment of the health and well-being of the elderly and people’s pets.

It has been well documented that criminals use the cover of the noise of fireworks to shoot and kill rivals.

There have been calls for the banning of scratch bombs, stringent regulation on the sale of fireworks and harsher penalties for persons breaking existing laws regarding the sale of unauthorised types of fireworks, especially those containing gun powder. Investigations into Alambi’s death are continuing.