The following (24) articles give practical advice on handling varied challenges from cultural to financial, when staying on Jamaican soil. They are sourced from the Caribbean’s leading newspaper, The Gleaner’s new feature, ‘How to …’, an instruction guide giving practical advice on fixing many of those pesky problems that pop up - without paying an arm and a leg. Seize on info from Jamaica’s industry experts and become a veritable Mr or Mrs Fix-it. See more at
Jamaicans tell you HOW TO…
1. HOW TO: Take care of your household plumbing
Leaks and clogs can be annoying. Even more, leaks, in particular, are sometimes warning signs of a bigger problem. Expert Everald Bailey, a plumber for more than 20 years and owner of HiTech Plumbing, shares a few tips with readers. See full article on HOW TO: Take care of your household plumbing
2. How to …Fix faulty roofing
It would be wise to get a gardener or repair expert to tackle heights such as these. - Photos by Anthea McGibbon
As the Atlantic hurricane season advances, some Jamaicans have still neglected securing their roofs, waiting ’til the last minute to address niggling problems which might later morph into yawning catastrophes. Emphasising that maintenance is key to the prevention and control of roofing woes, Abe Kawass, a director of K’s Roofing Company Limited, shares basic tips with readers. See full article on How to… fix faulty roofing
3. How to …care used vehicles
Although stretching the budget significantly, some Jamaicans can only afford to purchase used vehicles. After acquiring the pre-owned vehicle, then comes the challenge of maintaining its beauty and performance. Former chief scrutineer of the Dover Racing Club, Neil Harvey who is currently involved in a car-building project himself, shares tips with our readers.
Errol Gayle checks the front end parts and oil.
See full article on How to … care used vehicles
4. How to… avoid food poisoning by fish
Jamaica costal waters have become polluted, placing marine life at risk. As a result, consumers of fish are also at risk. Fisherman Richard Saunders has more than 20 years experience in preparing fish for consumption. See full article on How to … avoid food poisoning by fish
5. How to … Travel downhill when driving BIG
Large vehicles such as trailers, trucks and buses can be fascinating. Teenagers, especially, sometimes see manouevring big vehicles as a test of adulthood. However, there are a few problems that one can encounter when traveling ‘big’ up or downhill. Faulty brakes can pose an even greater challenge when traveling on narrow, winding or wet and slippery hills.
Air is released from this system when when pressure is applied to the brake pedal in some trucks.
This week, expert mechanic Linton Hughes, who has been driving trucks and buses for at least 20 years, provides tips on how to handle big big vehicles in the event of a brake failure. See full article on How to … Travel downhill when driving BIG
6. How to … stay in bu$iness
FACED WITH repercussions from the global economic downturn, and high inflation and soft consumer spending on the home front, some businesses are finding it difficult to stay afloat.
Business guru, William Mahfood, managing director of Wisynco for 21 years, reveals sure-fire tips for entrepreneurial success centring on the double-pronged formula of managing and motivating. See full article on How To Stay in Bu$iness
7. How to … Look cool in Jamaica’s heat
Model Kerry-Ann Bercher’s dress-and-jacket ensemble is ideal for the working world, but she can shed the jacket for an after-work jam. - Photos by Norman Grindley/Acting Photo Editor
DRESSING IS sometimes nail-biting self-torture as you rummage through your closet trying to find that perfect pair of pants or delightful dress that will cause an eye-popping, jaw-dropping tremor on the fashion scale. Then, blank! After tossing everything aside, you realise there are so many clothes, but so few to choose from to suit Jamaica’s climate.
Expert Les Campbell, a fashion designer for more than 20 years, believes Jamaicans, across the board, tend to select wrong styles and fabric. Observing that citizens often get hooked by glitzy fashion trends in movies, he offers a few tips for dressing suitably for luncheons, the office or after-parties in the tropics. See full article on HOW TO: Look cool in Jamaica’s heat
8. HOW TO: Burnish your boots
Model Patrick James uses a lighter to melt the polish. - Photos by Norman Grindley/Acting Photo Editor
Clothes maketh the man, the adage goes, and persons generally make an extra effort to don their Sunday best, every day of the week. But, nothing spoils a glamorous ensemble like a dull or mud-splattered pair of shoes. And, there’s never a second chance to make a first impression. Who better to dish out advice on achieving the perfect sheen on your boots than a man in uniform. Brian Adams, a former cadet who, also has army-training experience, explains how to get that glistening burnish. See full article on HOW TO: Burnish your boots
9. How To …Avoid hairy headaches
Massage the shampooed head in firm, circular motions. - Photos by Patrick James
A BAD hair day can be one’s worst nightmare. Expert Kingsley Davis gives great tips today on how well-groomed hair can keep anyone happy and beautiful for a long time. See full article on HOW TO: Avoid hairy headaches
10. How To …Build a website
The quest to capture more clients drives many entrepreneurs into expanding their business horizons on the World Wide Web. According to 15-year consultant Michael Conally, building a viable website is less difficult than most persons think. Conally is CEO of a London-based media/news media company delivering IT consultancy to media organisations and company clients. The tools necessary depend on skills, budget and objectives to be achieved through the site. See full article on HOW TO: Build a website
11. Tips on publishing a book
FINALLY, MORE Jamaicans with a tale to tell are penning their thoughts. With confidence that they have written something worth putting on bookshelves, they are now ready for the challenge of publishing those thoughts.
Generally, a good publisher takes control of all stages, but with budget constraints and financial challenges, more Jamaicans go for self-publishing.
The stages – in brief – are editing, layout/design, printing and production activities, says author Diane Browne, a member for over 20 years in the Children Writers Group. After recently self-publishing her latest children’s book, The Ring and the Roaring Water, she offers quick guidelines. See full article on Tips on publishing a book
12. Picture-perfect framing
Using a mitre box to make the angle perfect.
Amateur artists face major challenges as they struggle to rise to financial freedom. With over 20 years’ experience in the art industry, Ewan McAnuff offers framing solutions to make your paintings picture perfect. Here are some cost-effective tips on making a good fist of framing your own art. See full article on HOW TO: Picture-perfect framing
13. How to … Buy or sell property
Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer
Louise D. Wright (left), senior sales consultant at D.C. Tavares-Finson, shows a project to a client, Sherica Simpson.
TIMES ARE getting harder, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to own, sell, or rent property. Louise D. Wright, senior sales consultant at D.C. Tavares-Finson real-estate company with 16 years’ experience under her belt, gives tips on buying and selling houses. See full article on HOW TO: buy and sell property
14. Surf’s up for Net rookies
USING THE Internet to access information and/or entertainment is an all-important part of many people’s daily routine - whether they are occasional users or tech junkies. However, there are thousands who are still unable to surf or browse. Derek Aarons, a Gleaner techie, gives all the advice necessary for for Internet virgins to get on the scoresheet. See full article on HOW TO: surf the net
16. Lock in natural beauty
Minka lets down her hair
There’s hardly a better expert on natural hair care than someone who has been in the business all her life. Gillian ‘Minka’ Francis, who is completing naturopathy studies, is now working on her own commercial line of products for natural hair. Minka, disappointed with the limited natural products available on the market, recently took time out to share tips with Jamaicans who choose sheer natural beauty. See full article on HOW TO: Lock in natural beauty
16. Tips on selecting a good lawyer
Attorney-at-law Jacqueline Samuels-Brown (right) discusses legal issues with Aleisha Martin. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer
FINDING A GOOD lawyer can be one of the most frustrating experiences in jamaica, especially when funds are limited. However, it’s easier than you think. Ideally, with the right research, a lawyer who can serve as a ‘legal coach’ is best. A good lawyer connects with his client right from the start. The initial contact is an excellent opportunity to get to know each other, to determine if there is a fit.
Although secondary, the personality fit is also important. The client should feel a sense of security.
The initial contact between lawyer and client is an excellent opportunity to get to know each other. After all, the lawyer will be functioning as both coach and agent.
Charles Williams, an attorney for more than 25 years, advises that clients should ask many questions, plus pay attention to the yardsticks such as chemistry and accessibility, right from the start. Williams also advises that the lawyer should be able to give an idea of the time frame involved and necessary stages for resolution the problem to be achieved.
Jacqueline Samuels-Brown, president of the Jamaican Bar Association, explains that clients need to know that they have the last word, while the lawyer advises on all possible outcomes. It is, therefore, up to the client to outline his or her desired course of action. See full article on HOW TO: Select a good lawyer
17. How to … store gold jewelry
Jewelery creations by Anna Ruth Henriques. - Contributed Photos
For years Anna Ruth Henriques has been a phenomenal multicultural artist. As an expert jewelery designer, she has hit the jackpot, attracting international exposure. Henriques, whose main clients are retail stores in the United States, offers quick tips on the care and storage of gold jewellery. See full article at
HOW TO: Store gold jewelry
18. How to - Moulding your marketing master plan
IN A recent ‘How To’ article, ‘How to stay in bu$iness’, published September 27, business guru William Mahfood identified the necessity of seamless communication for success in Jamaica. Today, Arnold ‘JJ’ Foote Jr, with 22 years of experience in the advertising and marketing industry, promotes effective communication. See full article at
HOW TO: Moulding your marketing master plan
19. How to … maintain your computer
Owning a computer comes with its fair share of risks and demands. Buying a computer is one thing; proper maintenance is another. The Gleaner’s technical support teamsters pooled their expertise to offer advice on general computer care.See full article on How to… maintain your computer
20. How to … Appetite for catering
With Christmas in the air, many parties are on the cards and persons have even pressed ahead to start planning for New Year’s celebrations. Food is an important part of holiday fete, whether it’s a ball, launch, wedding or simple party. Patricia Taylor, caterer for more than 25 years is a virtual compendium on the industry, and has developed an impressive list of clients. Today the expert on settings as diverse as weddings and camp shares tips for catering beginners caterer. See full article on HOW TO: Appetite for catering
21. HOW TO: Get jazzy with digital TV
THE RUSH is on to acquire a high-definition (HD) television, at least in the United states. Certainly, Jamaicans might follow suit shortly as they try to keep up with the digital era. Jamaica-born Andrew ‘Fergie’ Ferguson, an information technology consultant living in Pompano beach, florida, raves about the satisfaction that and HD-ready plasma monitor offers. His has a digital broadband receiver with a built-in-digital video recorder. today, Ferguson shares his expertise on the cutting-edge technology. Read full article atHOW TO: Get jazzy with digital TV.
22. HOW TO: Caring for clay ware
JAMAICANS WHO appreciate beautiful art often collect clay ware as exquisite pieces of decor for their homes and businesses. artwork also has functionality, such as vases, flower pots, cups, mugs and plates. However, vases and flower pots, because of their porosity, often sweat overnight as the water soaks into the clay. Today, Philip Supersad and David Pinto, expert ceramists for more than 25 years, share tips on how to buy and care clay ware, pottery or other ceramic craft items. See more at
How to: Caring for clay ware
Send requests, comments, features to anthea@negril.com
Attorney-at-law Jacqueline Samuels-Brown (right) discusses legal issues with Aleisha Martin. - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer
FINDING A GOOD lawyer can be one of the most frustrating experiences in jamaica, especially when funds are limited. However, it’s easier than you think. Ideally, with the right research, a lawyer who can serve as a ‘legal coach’ is best. A good lawyer connects with his client right from the start. The initial contact is an excellent opportunity to get to know each other, to determine if there is a fit.
Although secondary, the personality fit is also important. The client should feel a sense of security.
The initial contact between lawyer and client is an excellent opportunity to get to know each other. After all, the lawyer will be functioning as both coach and agent.
Charles Williams, an attorney for more than 25 years, advises that clients should ask many questions, plus pay attention to the yardsticks such as chemistry and accessibility, right from the start. Williams also advises that the lawyer should be able to give an idea of the time frame involved and necessary stages for resolution the problem to be achieved.
Jacqueline Samuels-Brown, president of the Jamaican Bar Association, explains that clients need to know that they have the last word, while the lawyer advises on all possible outcomes. It is, therefore, up to the client to outline his or her desired course of action. See full article on HOW TO: Select a good lawyer
17. How to … store gold jewelry
Jewelery creations by Anna Ruth Henriques. - Contributed Photos
For years Anna Ruth Henriques has been a phenomenal multicultural artist. As an expert jewelery designer, she has hit the jackpot, attracting international exposure. Henriques, whose main clients are retail stores in the United States, offers quick tips on the care and storage of gold jewellery. See full article at
HOW TO: Store gold jewelry
18. How to - Moulding your marketing master plan
IN A recent ‘How To’ article, ‘How to stay in bu$iness’, published September 27, business guru William Mahfood identified the necessity of seamless communication for success in Jamaica. Today, Arnold ‘JJ’ Foote Jr, with 22 years of experience in the advertising and marketing industry, promotes effective communication. See full article at
HOW TO: Moulding your marketing master plan
19. How to … maintain your computer
Owning a computer comes with its fair share of risks and demands. Buying a computer is one thing; proper maintenance is another. The Gleaner’s technical support teamsters pooled their expertise to offer advice on general computer care.See full article on How to… maintain your computer
20. How to … Appetite for catering
With Christmas in the air, many parties are on the cards and persons have even pressed ahead to start planning for New Year’s celebrations. Food is an important part of holiday fete, whether it’s a ball, launch, wedding or simple party. Patricia Taylor, caterer for more than 25 years is a virtual compendium on the industry, and has developed an impressive list of clients. Today the expert on settings as diverse as weddings and camp shares tips for catering beginners caterer. See full article on HOW TO: Appetite for catering
21. HOW TO: Get jazzy with digital TV
THE RUSH is on to acquire a high-definition (HD) television, at least in the United states. Certainly, Jamaicans might follow suit shortly as they try to keep up with the digital era. Jamaica-born Andrew ‘Fergie’ Ferguson, an information technology consultant living in Pompano beach, florida, raves about the satisfaction that and HD-ready plasma monitor offers. His has a digital broadband receiver with a built-in-digital video recorder. today, Ferguson shares his expertise on the cutting-edge technology. Read full article atHOW TO: Get jazzy with digital TV.
22. HOW TO: Caring for clay ware
JAMAICANS WHO appreciate beautiful art often collect clay ware as exquisite pieces of decor for their homes and businesses. artwork also has functionality, such as vases, flower pots, cups, mugs and plates. However, vases and flower pots, because of their porosity, often sweat overnight as the water soaks into the clay. Today, Philip Supersad and David Pinto, expert ceramists for more than 25 years, share tips on how to buy and care clay ware, pottery or other ceramic craft items. See more at
How to: Caring for clay ware
Send requests, comments, features to anthea@negril.com
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