Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-paper 03-10-2019

Sunday, March 10, 2019 Diana Dolphin, owner of Enchanted Gardens – Floral Arts, is a stay at home mom who has turned her hobby into a business. She specialises in children’s hair accessories.

She is one of the many female entrepreneurs who showcased her skills at the Women in Business Expo which was held on March 2-3 (Samuel Maughn Photo)

Women in Business Expo A stepping stone for progress

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

Guyanese flying the friendly skies with Caribbean Airlines

By Francis Quamina Farrier

might even be snoring in their beautiful sanitised condition.

The voice of the Captain on the PA system interrupts your BEFORE Caribbean Airlines flew into the friendly skies doze. Instructions are given that the aircraft is about to land of the wide blue yonder, there was the British West Indies at Piarco International Airport. Many more instructions are Airways (BWIA). Back in the day, BWIA was regarded as given by the pilot and a cabin attendant. However, there is the analogy of, “But Will It Arrive?”. Fun was poked at one vital piece of information that is withheld, which is that that airline on the streets of Guyana and even on the Theyou are about to face one of the most terrible on-the-ground atre Guild stage with the popular Brink Shows because of turbulence; a yet-to-be-explained security check, by some the constant late arrivals of BWIA flights. very arrogant and unprofessional security personnel. HowevDuring that period of the 1970s and 1980s, Guyanese comer, still having the feeling of being a very sanitised traveller, plained bitterly about being treated very shabbily by BWIA, you deplane and proceed into the impressive Piarco Terminal even though the airline regularly stated that Guyana was its Building. You find yourself in a line. Oh, No! You have to most profitable route and source of income. Nonetheless, be subjected to another security check. “But, I’m sanitised!” shabby treatment of the Guyanese passengers never relented. you say to yourself. But you are powerless in the face of the “BWIA continued to bite the hands which fed their coffers powerful forces at that security checkpoint at Piarco, who at handsomely and made their bottom line very impressive year times are very obnoxious. after year,” said one veteran BWIA customer.

You begin to feel extremely stressed out. You get an There have been many horror stories; especially during instant headache. Some of your fellow sanitised passengers the period of the Guyanese traders with their red, white and accept the situation; probably singing inwardly, “Do woh blue jumbo bags. That was a period when there were many yoh waan’ wid meh”. Other passengers grumble. A few like foreign goods banned from Guyana; a time when foreign curmyself, voice that this security check is absolute nonsense. rency was not available for the ordinary citizen; a time when Some of the security personnel threaten to have vocal pasthe Guyana dollar was no longer accepted in the Caribbean sengers arrested and locked up. The sanitising by the TSA at as it used to be. the JFK International Airport means nothing to those Trinidad It is not so well-known that the Guyanese traders suffered security personnel. You either comply with the Trinidadian many hardships at the Piarco International Airport in Trinidad.

Security or risk being arrested and thrown into jail. After all, Many of them claimed that some Customs Officers and some you are in a sovereign state. You ask a question and are told Farrier at the Caribbean Airlines Check-In at the Piarco Security Officers at the Piarco International Airport would that the security is of Caribbean Airlines. You are puzzled in International Airport, Trinidad on February 11, 2019. blatantly steal their goods. When they protested, they were your sanitised condition. threatened with arrest and imprisonment. “It wasn’t easy,” You know that you and other law-abiding citizens are ena former trader told me. “We were at their mercy. And they couraged by international security that, “If you see something, After waiting in a designated area, where you remain say something.” Yet, here you are being treated shabbily by were merciless.” Meanwhile, the airline - BWIA- which profsanitised, you hear an announcement on the PA System to security. ited so much from their regular travels, never stepped forward with a conscience, or moral obligation, to say a word on their board the CAL aircraft. You enter the sanitised aircraft. You In order to garner some sense out of this amazing controbehalf. The traders were on their own. They were treated like take your designated seat. You get a series of instructions as to versy, I decided to interview a very Senior Officer of Caribbewhat you should do, and shouldn’t do during the flight, should an Airlines in Georgetown. The gentleman expressed concern.

“Children of a Lesser God”.

Let’s now fast-forward, from the demise of BWIA to the the aircraft experience any challenge. The plane is pushed out He listened graciously to the concern of CAL passengers birth of Caribbean Airlines (CAL), which was actually just from the gate. The Captain comes on the plane’s PA system which I related to him and offered some sympathy. He then a change of name from BWIA to CAL. Guyanese travellers and welcomes you on board, giving you a few more necessary suggested that I speak with a senior CAL operative in Triniwere promised and expected better treatment as paying cus- safety instructions. You remain pure and sanitised. Just before dad, even sending an e-letter of introduction; and so I fly over tomers. Their support of CAL was similar to their support of the plane takes off, you are given a few more instructions such to Trinidad - on CAL, of course. However, just before that trip BWIA. So, was the service improved? Most regulars with as to turn off your cell phone and other electronic equipment. to Trinidad, I mingled in the crowd at the promotional Fete whom I spoke were not ready to respond in the affirmative. As a law-abiding person, you comply. You are then told to which CAL staged one evening under the Stabroek Market The majority of the complaints are about the treatment CAL “Sit back, relax and enjoy the flight.”

Tower in Georgetown. Among the audience were some govThe voice of the Captain is heard once again, instructing ernment officials. Over in Trinidad, I found it more possible to gives - or doesn’t give, to their “Valued Customers”, when on the ground. The in-flight service gained fairly high marks. the Cabin Attendants to take up position for take-off. Shortly have my meeting with the CAL Management representative, thereafter you hear the power of the aircraft’s engines as the on the phone. The voice sounded more like a recording. No Since 9/11 - one of the saddest days in aviation history - plane speeds along the runway and lifts up, up into the wide genuine apologies or promise to make the Piarco experience there has been a quantum leap in terms of security checks of blue yonder, heading for Piarco in Trinidad. You fly for over for the Guyanese passengers of Caribbean Airlines any better. passengers boarding commercial aircraft worldwide. Since it four hours in that sanitised aircraft cabin. You remain sani- I later spoke with about a dozen security operatives at differwas in New York that most people were killed on 9/11, let’s tised since the TSA security check at the JFK International ent areas of the Piarco International Airport and the majority look at the following, at Terminal Four of the JFK Internation- Airport. There is no way that you could become contaminated of them expressed the view that it was America which was al Airport: You have just completed checking-in at Caribbean as you are now flying at over 30,00 feet in the friendly skies ordering that second security check.

Airlines and are now about to interact with the professional above the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean sea. During the In an online survey, I garnered the following comments: TSA personnel at the Security Check Point. You have already flight, the Captain comes on the PA system and alerts you that Don: “That should be an issue for the (Guyana) Ministry removed your headwear, your coat, your belt and your shoes. there will be some turbulence and advises you to fasten your of Foreign Affairs to look into.”

You have also emptied your pockets and placed everything seatbelt. You willingly comply and shortly after experience a Dencol: “Guyanese need their own Government-run in the rectangular plastic bins. You go into the X-Ray device bit of bouncing around for a few minutes, which then comes airline again.” with your arms above your head as instructed. You step out to an end. Later, you are served some tasty snacks by the Brian: “It is one of the most ridiculous Immigration stunts. and you are patted down by one of the TSA officers. You are professional Cabin Attendants. All is well. You are flying It makes no sense to me.” then waved on as someone who is sanitised and considered CAL in one of its sanitised aircraft. You doze off. Piarco Pansy: “They stole money from my brother. He has the by some of the toughest security personnel on the planet, as International Airport in Trinidad gets closer and closer. You receipt.” Carmen: “On my last trip, they were horrible on our being safe to board a commercial aircraft. You are sanitised. remain sanitised in your slumber - so too your neighbour, who layover in Trinidad.”

And Hilton: “Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has no b...s to address this which has been going on for years.”

The Guyana Airways Corporation (GAC) jet aircraft which operated So, who will look into this puzzling situation? non-stop flights from Guyana to Miami, New York and Toronto.

The Trinidad and Tobago government? The Guyana government? CARICOM? Caribbean Airlines Management? Or will this situation grow and fester into infinity? However, there is a call by a growing number of Guyanese that the now-defunct Guyana Airways Corporation (GAC), should be back and flying the friendly skies for the benefit of the law-abiding and paying Guyanese travellers who are sanitised by professional security personnel every time they present themselves at an international airport security location.

Women in Business Expo Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

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A stepping stone for progress

Leisa Gibson showcasing her naturally made hair and body products at Women in Business Expo 2019 (Photos by Samuel Maughn) Meet the outgoing Debbie Argyle. She and the women from the Mahaica Women’s Group make scented candles and craft work. Their candles are now sold in the Guyana Shop.

Professional psychologist turned Chef, Debbie Houston is living her dream. She provides an array of food services at Glitzy Glamour Cakes, Culinary School and Event Planning.

By Svetlana Marshall WHEN Leisa Gibson participated in the country’s first ever Women in Business Expo in 2016, it was indeed a leap of faith.

She had one product, a 4oz natural hair and scalp conditioner that she exhibited but as the Founder and Publisher of Leaders in Heels, Kasia Gospos once said, “Amazing things happen when women help other women.”

It was not long after showcasing her product at the Women in Business Expo that Gibson started to reap the benefits of participating in the phenomenal venture. It had created a platform for her to promote her business – Leisa Salon n Beauty Supplies, network with other businesses and engage investors. And with a special push from Sonia Noel- the founder of the expo, family and friends, Gibson watched her business expand rapidly over the past four years.

This year when she joined the more than 50 exhibitors at the 2019 Women in Business Expo at the Pegasus Hotel on March 2-3, Gibson marketed not just one product but more than five – a combination of natural air and body care products. “[We featured] our natural hair and scalp conditioner – a natural product that replaces your Vaseline. It has no petroleum,” Gibson told the Pepperpot Magazine as she held a 4oz container while pointing to the fact that it now comes in four sizes – 2oz, 4oz and 8oz. Added to that, she now manufactures several types of handmade soap. “We have honey and oats, activated charcoal and turmeric, turmeric by itself and activated charcoal by itself,” she detailed.

All of her products are approved by the

Food and Drugs Department, and with a license to manufacture in hand, Gibson gets to sell her products in the Guyana Store. To date, her products attract other customers in the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

“Being a part of Women in Business Expo for the past four years has been great for us, we have seen growth and we thank God for Dr. Sonia Noel and the way he has been using her to promote women in business,” Gibson testified.

ALONG WAY Debbie Argyle journeyed to the city from Mahaica to participate in the Women in Business Expo for the third time. In her words, she represents a “bunch of women” from the Mahaica Women’s Group, who continue to use the expo as a platform to promote their scented candles and craft and reach new markets.

Through the group, this group of women empowers other women – many of them single parents and cash crop farmers. “We teach them lifelong skills, and show them how those skills can make a daily living for them and their children,” Argyle explained. Every year, since their first participation in 2016, Argyle and her colleagues from the Mahaica Women’s Group look forward to the Women in Business Expo and the exposure it brings.

“We were making the candles but we weren’t getting the candles to sell. I went to visit Ms. Sonia, we came to the first expo in 2016 and we had a breakthrough. Right now we are supplying the Guyana Shop, and we have steady customers.” The team of women is now eyeing markets in the Caribbean and the U.S.

Miranda Bernard hails from St. Cuthbert’s Mission. A single parent mother, Bernard uses the skills taught to her by her parents to make an array of straw products.

THIRD TIME’S A CHARM Proprietor of Harmony Inn, Carolyn Caesar Murray was a third-time participant at the expo. She and her husband offer well-furnished comfortable and luxurious rooms at affordable prices at three locations. The Hotel and Guest House Industry is a competitive one, but through the years, Murray has learnt to stay ahead of the game. “We compete in this saturated market, I would say, based on quality and price,” Murray said. According to her, customers get value for their money and benefit from personalized services.

“Ninety per cent of our customers are referral and that is testament to the good job that we are doing and the value for money we are offering. We continue to come up with innovative and creative ways to rise above our challenges,” the entrepreneur said.

Pointing to the other exhibitors, Murray said manning a business is not a walk in the park; it is difficult but rewarding at the same time. The expo, she explained, better equips women for success.

“It is thorough, why because it is not like you just come and put your stuff here. There are events leading up to the expo where she [Sonia Noel] teaches you how to use technology to push your business; how to dress for success; how to market your brand, market your businesses so persons coming from different places. Some of these women have been here for the first year and they have had the opportunity to redefine their products,” Murray explained.

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY For young entrepreneur, Diana Dolphin

Trotman the opportunity to network with business women from across Guyana and further afield was indeed a blessing.

“Being a part of this expo has opened my eyes to a lot of different things. Seeing the other women doing things make me want to step up my game and do much more. The feedback and encouragement I got for them was just heartwarming and I am truly encouraged,” the 31-year-old proprietor of Enchanted Gardens – Floral Arts told the Pepperpot Magazine.

Trotman specialises in children’s headbands, embroidery purses and home décor.

Approximately three years ago, she turned her hobby into a business.

Debbie Houston – the owner of Glitzy Glamour Cakes, Culinary School and Event Planning, was also among the exhibitors. The certified psychologist turned Chef is living her passion. According to her, being the part of the expo was a major push. Houston said while she had a presence on social media, she was not reaching a lot of people, and the expo has opened a window of opportunity to extend her reach. “[On the first day] I introduced the organic whole wheat bread which is strictly, no white flour, honey and molasses, and it started selling even as I was setting up. [The second day] everything sold out,” she reported.

The Scrubshub, Trails and Treasures, David Creative Designs and Anna Ultra Beauty Salon were among the other more than 50 exhibitors. Women in Business Expo was held on March 2nd and 3rd under the theme “Think equal build smart innovate for change.” It continues to be an impactful venture for Guyanese women from all walks of life.

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

Phenomenal Woman

By Shirley Thomas Kudos for Phenomenal Woman Helena Maud Mc Allister HELENA Maud Mac Allister, who is, perhaps, the only known centenarian in Guyana to have served in the position of Managing Director of her family business at the age 102, will, on April 15 be celebrating her 105th birth anniversary.

Mrs. Mc Allistair also successfully chronicled and published the Helena Maud Mc Allister Autobiography - “A Century with Jesus,” at age 102 as well. The book was

released at her birthday celebration that year at the Pegasus Hotel.

Greetings on International Women’s Day As the world observed International Women’s Day on March 8, Mrs Mc Allistair who at this ripe old age is still gifted with good functioning mental faculties is extending greetings to the women of Guyana.

Edited by her son, Dr. Godfrey Mc Allister residing in the United States of America, the message dictated by an educationist for decades reads thus: “On this International Women’s Day, I encourage every woman to make the best

use of the best education you can get. Make use of the strength that God has given you.

Specialise in excellence in everything you do. Let your value be known and let your influence be felt. Invest heavily in the children you bear and make sure that you train them up in the way they should go so that the world tomorrow will be better than it is today. Stand up for your rights and use your influence, and along with your inherent value, to negotiate the best possible deals for yourselves. And most of all, give God the glory, for it is in Him and through Him that we are all that we are and that we will become the best that He designed us to be ….

A word of caution for parents: It is our responsibility as adults and as Godly parents to keep our worldly words, sights and activities as far away from us and our children as possible. Happy International Women’s Day!” THE GOAL OF IWD International Women’s Day was the brainchild of the United Nations and speaks to Women and Gender Equality: “ It is the Charter of the United Nations, signed in 1945, and was the first international agreement to affirm the principle of equality between women and men. Since then, the UN has helped create a historic legacy of internationally agreed strategies, standards, programmes and goals to advance the status of women worldwide.

In this regard, the life of Mrs. Mc Allister mirrors the purpose and intent of what IWD set out to achieve since she was always gainfully employed, working as an equal partner with her husband, whilst doing an incredible job at working to promote the empowerment and educational development of women.

Mrs. Mc Allister, fondly referred to as Aunt Maud, is the wife of the late Hilton Mc Allister, founder of the former ‘Mac’s Secretarial School’, located at Lot 208 Duncan Street, Newtown, Georgetown. She has a proud record of being the matriarch of a family-owned business that has actively contributed to the academic moulding of hundreds of the nation’s youth for decades, through what was initially the Mac’s Secretarial School, located on Duncan Street, Campbellville.

For more than 50 years, the privately owned institution – with Hilton Mc Allister at the helm, has churned out hundreds of students who were all well rounded academically. When Hilton married Helena soon after leaving his job at the Palms Geriatric Home in 1942, the couple ventured into teaching, coaching six young ladies to become typists and stenographers and also helping them in Home Economics. That initial venture bloomed and blossomed and was the beginning of what was to become a thriving educational venture.

The institution provided tuition at various levels: Kindergarten; Secretarial School; Day High School and Day Commercial School among others before finally setting up the ‘Day High School’, housed at the Frolic Hall at Robb and Light Streets, Bourda, which offered coaching for students to the level of Junior and Senior Cambridge Examinations.

With Hilton Mc Allister as Manager, the late Hugh Desmond Hoyte – also the former President of Guyana, functioned as Principal for many years. The Mc Allisters’ only daughter, Ruth was Assistant Principal and her brothers Godfrey and Hilton (Jnr) worked as lecturers.

Mrs. Mc Allister served as Managing Director of her family business until the age of 102

KINDERGARTEN AND BEYOND Known for his visionary qualities, Hilton ironically and regrettably lost his vision to glaucoma and transitioned in 2008. To his credit, he succeeded in making a considerable impact in the education sector in a private capacity. Aunt Maud recalls their venture into the delivery of higher education was a huge success and grew from strength to strength through the years. Many benefitted from the school’s well-delivered and innovative academic programmes. One such person is Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, who was a student of the school and later joined the teaching staff. And so too, was Ms. Anne Green, former Chief Probation and Welfare Officer.

Following her husband’s death, Mc Allister diversified and ventured, quite successfully so – into the Apartment rental business, overseeing the rental of a three-storey apartment building in Newtown. That facility was registered as a business entity under the name of: Mac’s Housing and Facilities. It initially housed the popular Mac’s Secretarial School.

To date, the business continues to do well, under the management of the centenarian ably assisted by her daughter Ruth and an efficient full-time paid secretary.

At 105, her mental faculties are average: She has good hearing, fairly good sight; and makes her way (assisted) up and down three flights of stairs to conduct Bible Studies on the lower flat of her apartment building. A devout member of the Christian Brethren Church, she also attends weekly Church Service at other parishes.

Though the business would have had its challenges, there were occasions to celebrate, one of the greatest being the introduction of computer technology on the education curriculum locally. She also recalled, with some degree of sadness, the devastating blow they were dealt, when four of their computers were destroyed at ‘one blow’, due to technical difficulties. But indefatigably, they managed to overcome and years later opened up an Internet Café, through which means, she was able to provide a further educational service for the youths of Campbellville.

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

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SRHR Adventures launches Parushi Club in Buxton Aimed at empowering and educating adolescent girls within communities

Members of Parushi Club along with members of SRHR Adventurers

By M Margaret Burke THE Buxton Health Centre was converted into a new and dynamic club as members of the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) group embarked on the establishment of a new project, “The Parushi Club”, which is seeking to transform the lives of girls into dynamic young women.

The programme which commenced at 14:30hres at the health centre had 57 persons in attendance, 40 of whom were girls within the adolescent ages.

‘Parushi’ is the Akawaio word for ladies and the club was founded by SRHR to carry out mentorship and awareness programmes that seek to engage young women within the ages of 10 to 19 from the Buxton/Friendship community and surrounding villages. Further, it aims to teach adolescent females about their bodies, while enhancing awareness of sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Ramona Chanderballi, Motivational speaker of the SRHR stated that Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) is the concept of human rights that are applied to sexThe First Inspirational Segment was done by guest Ms. Ramona Chanderbali, Cardiac Sonographer attached to the GPHC

uality and reproduction. It is a combination of four fields that in some contexts are more or less distinct from each other, but less so or not at all in other contexts.

“The troubling rate of unwanted pregnancies, adolescent pregnancies and domestic violence are social ill that continue to plague the regions of Guyana. Thus, through this programme young ladies will be motivated by self-awareness sessions.

These sessions will be facilitated by community resource individuals, government agencies and members of the SRHR Adventures team,” she explained.

The project will last for three months, ending in May 2019, with sessions being held every Saturday and Sunday. At the same time a method of random sampling will be used to select

female adolescents from the community.

PROJECT JUSTIFICATION President of SRHR, Dr. Patricee Douglas, told the Pepperpot Magazine that in today’s society a project of such nature is a vital one, since it seeks not only to impart knowledge into the lives of young ladies concerning their reproductive health and other important aspects that exists in life, but also serves to enhance their abilities to make wise decisions about such, all while building skills, supporting each other and adding value to their community.

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

The female ‘Postman’ The name remains the same, but the profession has been transformed

At centre is Manager in Charge of Post Offices in Guyana, Donnette Heywood flanked

by Public Relations Officer Ag,Tiffani Ferrel (Right) and ‘Postman II’, Lashana Harcourt at the GPOC Board Room.

A female ‘postman’ delivering mail

By Shirley Thomas LONG ago, the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) was a male-dominated environment, but over the last decade or so, the establishment has witnessed a steady influx of female postal delivery clerks - all broadly described as ‘Post Men’ – irrespective of gender.

This is so, to the extent that there is now

a scarcity of male mail-delivery persons with 80 percent female ‘Post Men’ employed at the GPOC as compared to 20 percent male.

And incredibly, this can augur well for the success for the meaning and intent of International Women’s Day which promotes the empowerment of women so that they can be placed side by side with men in the work environment.

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

VII

Heading M&CC’s Public Health Department

Is young and capable Dr Suzette Reynolds ment with the City Council, but she didn’t mind serving in an ‘acting’ position from time to time. In fact, she was the acting health director for the entire year of 2018, leading up to her appointment in September.

“It wasn’t my burning desire to be where I am, but I saw the need for somebody to be here; for somebody to be committed and honest; to be the calm in the storm, and I think I have the potential to do it,” Suzette expressed during an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine a few days ago.

With a number of “fresh” ideas in hand, she believes that it is necessary for officers to be up to date with the times.

Dr. Suzette Alana Reynolds

By Telesha Ramnarine MEET Dr Suzette Alana Reynolds who has officially been heading the Public Health Department of the Mayor and City Council over the past six months. While she came and met seasoned persons on the job whom she was now expected to guide, Suzette was all prepared and ready to take on the task.

The challenges are there for her to cope with, and Suzette well understands the difficulties that come along with working in a political climate, but the upbringing she’d received turned her into an individual who now acts with maturity beyond her years.

Initially, Suzette, 32, wasn’t so thrilled to take up employ-

Suzette does her best to balance her family life with her professional responsibilities

“The trend is that if you don’t get up to date with the times, you get left behind. What I see is that a lot of senior officers are well experienced, but they’re set in a determined way as to how they want to execute things. They do not look to the newer approach, the one that is acceptable by the wider population. In terms of flexibility, there is not a lot there. I think I am a little more flexible. I don’t want to brag, but I think I can insert myself in a lot more things and bring more to the Council.”

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

Emerging from darkness with ‘Silver Linings’

Young writer launches first book of poetry

By Gibron Rahim

IT IS undeniable that Guyana is home to writers of immense talent. The often unsung works these writers produce inspire and awe while provoking thought and discussion. These pieces may also be inspirational. This is the case with “Silver Linings”, poet Maryam Jameela Haniff’s recently released book of poems.

The Pepperpot Magazine spoke with Maryam to learn more about the inspiration behind Silver Linings. She related that she was homeschooled when she was younger. During that period of time she was exposed to the works of poets such as Robert Frost, Robert Louis Stevenson, Christina Rossetti and Emily Dickinson. Maryam explained that she loves to read. It is a love that developed from her father’s reading to her when she was younger. “After I started reading poetry I

just tried my hand at it and it just became a part of me.”

Silver Linings is focused on upliftment, motivation and dreams, according to Maryam. “The main theme is the title ‘Silver Linings’,” she related. “It’s basically to see the good in everything and choosing to see the light instead of drowning in the darkness.” Silver Linings was released on the launch day of the recently concluded 2019 Women in Business Expo. Maryam noted that the poems in Silver Linings were not written with the goal of creating a collection of poems in mind. “I’ve been writing since I was eight,” she related. She explained that she has been writing on the different life experiences she has had from that time to the present. “I just decided to do this compilation of poems written throughout the years.”

Publication of her work has been a dream of Maryam’s.

The theme of positivity that permeates Silver Linings was very important to her. As she further elaborated, “I chose

this theme because I know that the world is hard and people need upliftment, people need encouragement, people need to see the light so I chose Maryam Jameela Haniff this topic.”

Silver Linings has garnered a good response thus far. Maryam noted that people who like to read and those who are familiar with her work have responded positively to it.

Deciding on which poems to include in Silver Linings was a process for Maryam. She told the Pepperpot Magazine that she had to browse through the entire collection of poems she had written up to that point. “I had to go through them and choose the ones that fall under the theme of positivity and dreams,” she explained. Maryam had to put herself in the shoes of her potential readers, questioning what she as a reader would need if she was drowning in darkness or not feeling her best on a given day. She asked herself the question, “What would I want to read that would help me feel optimistic and want to get ready for the day?”

The positive message of Silver Linings has personal significance to Maryam. She related that she knows what it is like to not feel one’s best. “I know that everyone experiences it,” she said. “Even if they’re not open about it, everyone experiences it sometime in their life.” Poetry has been a great help for Maryam. She recalled that there have been numerous occasions where she has felt relieved after writing a piece.

“Sometimes, even if I don’t write, I would read poetry from other poets and it would help,” Maryam affirmed. “That’s why I’m hoping that when people read my work it would help them.” Indeed, the dedication in Silver Linings reads, “Dedicated to all those who are seeking light in this dark world.”

Maryam’s aspirations do not end with Silver Linings.

She produces other works through her brand “Emjay”. She explained that she used the initials “MJ” from her first and middle names to create the name Emjay for her brand. She has created magnets and stickers with short quotes from Silver Linings. She noted that she is also currently working on getting keyrings with quotes done as well. The aim, she said, is to feel a sense of refreshment after reading the quotes. “To have these words around you would help,” she said.

Through Emjay, Maryam is also offering a personalised poetry service. She explained that she would start with the letters of the name of the subject of the poem. “You would tell me some stuff about you and I would make a unique poem for you only,” she related. “And I would do the artwork and print it out on a card or [if] you want it framed,” she added.

She explained that the idea for personalised poems using the letters of one’s name came about from her research on poetic forms. After she began writing, Maryam looked into various poetic forms. She was inspired to try the acrostic poetic form, beginning with her own name.

The use of the acrostic allows for the personalised pieces Maryam writes to be especially unique to the people they are written for. “People like that so I offered it because I like to write and it would make people happy,” she said.

Those who read of Silver Linings can expect to feel renewed after completing it, according to Maryam. “They would feel a sense of more confidence, they would feel brave [and] they would want to go after their dreams,” she stated. “And they would want to grow out of whatever darkness they’re going through, if they are.” If not, they would have the strength to forgive and move on and encourage other people to empower love and kindness over negative emotions, she said. And there are more books of poetry in Maryam’s future. “People have been asking for children’s poetry so I think that’s the next step.”

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

Vivaanta

By M Margaret Burke VIVAANTA Ayurvedic Spa and Hair Salon has recently been introduced into the Guyanese market. The investors, who are originally from India, established a Trinidad-based company – the Aryanveda Ayurvedic Spa and Salon since 2011 and are now expanding their services in Guyana.

“My father, Nitin Mehra, was always in the export and import industry, doing business in many parts of the world. At the same time, I belong to a background of mechatronics engineering [a combination of mechanical and electrical systems and computer sciences]. However, my mother, Sunaina Mehra focused her studies in beauty and Ayurvedic treatments since she always had a burning desire to recapture the ancient heritage,” said Mr. Karan Mehra, who is also one of the directors of the company. The other director is Nitin Mehra.

He told the Pepperpot Magazine that his mother’s interest in her type of business caught the collective attention of him and his father, thus making it into the large business that it is today.

He further explained that they branched off to the Caribbean, specifically Trinidad in 2011, where they still continue to receive an

pany can contribute to the economic well-being of Guyana because they are bringing to this country about 15 years of experience in this area of work and intend to engage the services of 35 staff members from the commencement of the company.

“At the start our staff will be about 10 – 15 Indians and the 20 or more Guyanese, making it a total of 35 staff members. It is hoped that we will eventually expand to about 100 staff members as we expand,” he stated.

He disclosed that as a company they are optimistic that they will do well mainly because of their unique value offerings, as The Vivaanta Ayurvedic Spa and Salon, 3 Church Street, Georgetown

overwhelming response. “We are known for our herbal therapies. Many of our therapies are aimed at retaining youthful beauty and health. And so we have now commenced offering our services in the Guyanese market, where we plan to give of our best,” Karan said.

He added that even though there are other hair salons in Guyana, he believes that the services they are about to offer will be quite different mainly because everything is under one roof.

Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest holistic ‘whole-body’ healing systems, which was developed more than 3,000 years ago in India. It is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Its main goal is to promote good health; not fight disease.

But treatments may be geared toward specific health problems.

ECONOMIC WELL-BEING Karan said that he believes that his com-

well as good health, wellness, beauty and improved self-esteem services that they will continually offer.

Vivaanta, he says, combines health, beauty and hair in one for the ultimate experience at one place; stating that the company has created a perfect fusion between age-old therapies and modern spa technology, creating a fusion of Asian, Western and Indian Ayurvedic treatments.

GROWING POPULARITY “Ayurveda is often described as one of the most ancient therapeutic sciences,” he said, noting that the growing popularity of Ayurveda has made it the first choice of treatment for the people of all generation at present. The reach of Indian Ayurveda is now global; every part of the world is accepting it due to its effectiveness. It is the only science, which talks about absolute health. Ayurveda is different from all other sciences, which has made it so popular,” Karan said.

He added that Vivaanta is the pioneer and

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A one-stop Ayurvedic health and beauty spa

leader of herbal care in Guyana, adding that the company has brought India’s Ayurvedic tradition to Guyana. “We are introducing a totally new concept of ‘care and cure’. We have looked ahead, towards newer challenges, incorporating the latest techniques and introducing unique innovations. Our natural instincts and foresight have always led us to the next frontier, with our finger on the pulse of international demands.”

Karan concluded: “We look forward to the industrial and economic growth of the country. Industrial development has had an important role in the economic growth of many countries. Technological change and innovations are essential sources of structural change. One of the driving forces for structural change is the change in domestic

and international demand… we aim to give the best possible experience to our clients by consistently improving communication, motivating each other to achieve our goals, advancing on all levels, giving back to our community, innovating through new products and services, never settling for less than excellence and evolving as individuals and as a company.”

VIVAANTA Ayurvedic Spa and Hair Salon held its opening ceremony at its Church Street location on Saturday. It will be offering a wide range of products and treatments to renew the body and mind.

Some of these services include hair treatment, threading, skin care, body treatment, massage therapy, facials, nail care, laser treatment and much more.

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

10-year-old girl battling cancer loses lower leg

By Tracey Khan HOW would you cope if you lost one of your leg at a young age?

Well, this is the reality that 10-year-old Brianna Nelson has to live with for the rest of her life as she fights to stay alive.

Most children her age are happy and healthy, as they prepare to transition to their teenage years, but Briana has to come to grips with the fact that she had to amputate her lower leg.

Despite this and other challenges, she is pursuing her education at the Cumberland Primary School in Canje, Berbice.

She was diagnosed with Sarcoma cancer last year and immediately after, doctors had to amputate one of her feet in an effort

to save her life, but she is still not out of the woods.

Her 29-year-old mother, Amanda Prince, who works as a cleaner at Cumberland Secondary said her daughter is currently, “undergoing radiation therapy in Georgetown so she will be due for a full body check-up soon to see how that treatment has helped.”

In 2018, Briana’s heel began to swell and hurt uncontrollably. She was taken to the hospital repeatedly and doctors told the family she was suffering from a fracture.

Further tests at the Georgetown Public Hospital revealed the dreadful news. Her grandmother Sharon Blair spoke of the emotional and financial toll cancer is taking on her family.

“It is not easy, because some days when she come home and sleeping and you watch at her and remember she was born with two foot and now you got to watch a child with one and a half foot, it is very hard and tears come to our eyes often,” her grandmother said. “But she is making out okay she is very brave even though one and two time she would come home and say that the children does trouble she and take away the clutch. We does normal tell she don’t bother with them and life goes on its not like she put the sickness on she self. We want the best for her because she’s an intelligent child and by the chemo that she take it drop she back a little in school because over six months she was in and out because of the pain she is experiencing.”

Brianna said there are days that she does not feel like attending school but understands that her education is important and she wants to make her family proud.

Persons who would like to help the family can call 617-8245 or 3277528.

Little Brianna adjusting to her new way of life

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

More bora farmers in Ruby Backdam are embracing new production technologies

THERE is a growing interest and enthusiasm in the production of bora among farmers in Ruby Backdam, East Bank Essequibo, as new yield-enhancing and soil fertility-improving technologies are being introduced to them by the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

Last year, the agriculture agency introduced rhizobium to the farmers. This is a nitrogen-fixing bacteria that have a symbiotic effect in both soil and seed.

NAREI’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Oudho Homenauth said that rhizobium is an important soil bacteria that has the ability to make the atmospheric nitrogen available to the plants.

The atmosphere is abundant in Nitrogen but it cannot be utilized directly by the plants. Nitrogen has to be converted into ammonia before it can be used by the plants. Rhizobia are soil bacteria that have the ability to do just that - convert nitrogen into ammonia.

Dr. Homenauth said that the bacteria multiply and form nodules attached to the plant roots of leguminous plants such as peas, bora and beans. The nitrogen-fixing bacteria are useful not only for the leguminous plants but also help increase soil fertility for all plants.

“Once the plant obtains its nitrogen through nitrogen fixation, there is no need to apply nitrogen and you will have a reduction in the cost of production, you have better yields in terms of both quality and quantity,” NAREI’s boss said while adding that the rhizobia are environmentally friendly.

This technology will now be transferred to bora farmers throughout Guyana with the help of NAREI’s extension officers.

The institute’s CEO visited some of the farmers last week who have introduced rhizobia and was left amused with the response received. Some of them described the new technology as a miracle and said that their production cost has been reduced.

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The Arts

THIS is not an article I would have to write in most CARICOM nations outside of Guyana; but I must reiterate this in my country for the obvious reasons that revolve around the people I have been exposed to that have gravitated to politics, and to administrative power, ushering a tremendous decline over the past 30 years in creative thinking and innovative consciousness. These forces still have an influence on unlearned minds today, declaring that though most special aptitudes of appreciation are not distributed by nature as multiple gifts, one can pursue and cultivate an interest and value for areas of human achievement and endeavours that we may never endeavour to have an in-depth understanding of.

And there are those who are isolated, their yearnings repressed by those lightless ones who wield authority and control over their social environment, but by constructing a public discourse, they too can recognise that they can sidestep the mental prisons and awake and understand.

The commissioning by government of The Valerie Rodway House, by all means, should have made the headlines; her picture plastered on the front page of our newspapers.

The works of this woman are pure inspiration. Because of her and others, Guyana has a voice of melodies that celebrate our national ethos. The Valerie Rodway House should envelop the many talents who both wrote and committed to music our national songs so that our young can understand that though the distasteful hovers about and around us, that presence is not truly all we are. Our national, folk and concert musicians and composers have all been kept from the active consciousness of would-be young composers and musicians and the population as a whole, because of the insertion of the most simple, mundane and destructive administrative clique to preside over the national psyche since independence. This is where the most bizarre and outlandish metamorphosis of values and the cultural being of the nation would occur.

This current act in the name of Valerie Rodway indicates a resuscitation of what is natural and significant and inspiring in the timeline of our young nation.

The first significant talent accompanied by the use of fire is art. This ability to allow the mind to roam and explore and extract from nature’s art store the simple but precise tools to capture their environment and other strange undefined imagery on stone that still baffle their descendants – uswith swift clarifications, and with stone was the designed forerunner of the cities, temples and thrones that we call civilisation, Nimrod’s legacy.

Much of ancient man’s environment was enveloped by frescos, murals and the iconography of Gods and Devils.

No column, no temple existed devoid of art. When it came to the first development of writing, Hieroglyphs, Meroitic, Cuneiform, linear Elamite and the calligraphy alphabets that followed, all were captured in artistic renderings, and with them came the first dip pens and brushes, executed with elegant flair, but with a display of the master’s arrogance.

The illuminated medieval manuscripts of the early Christian monks that followed the illustrated Ethiopian sacred renderings, all that we reach for, to define civilisation and sophistication is bordered by the arts. We will never know and I stand to be corrected on any statement on the following, as to what creative currents did Einstein- a passionate violinist via his musical meditations- attract for clarity towards his quest to fully expound and define special relativity.

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The first keepers of the human archives of existence

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World “HOW to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” is the final installation in the animated trilogy that presents the now famous Viking-inspired storyline where humans and dragons coexist. This film, written and directed by Dean DeBlois, follows a tradition set early on, where the previous films in the series came out and announced themselves

of being of a very high standard. “The Hidden World” follows in this same vein, with the movie highlighting the most noteworthy thing about the particular franchise in the way it turned out to be extremely well-designed, playing out exactly the way a computer-animated Viking saga is supposed to play out – flashing with vibrant co-

“How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World,” Universal Pictures, 2019 – Image via: IMDB

lours, bursting with intricate artwork, and peopled by characters and beasts who are so majestic, outlandish, grand, evil, kind, and spectacular that they can only exist in myth, or onscreen. Importantly, the films in the “How to Train Your Dragon” series always manage to appeal to the viewers’ emotions (both adults and kids), so much so that I do believe that this is the only trilogy that I can think of where the audience may actually cry during each one of the three films that make up the trilogy.

Our hero, Hiccup, has replaced his father as leader of the Viking people of Berk, following the events of the second film where his father, Stoick, passed away as his mother, the fierce dragon-protector, Valka, was found again. In the movie, Hiccup and his fiancée, Astrid, as well as his friends, Gobber, Snotlout, Fishlegs, Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and Eret come together to recognise that the dragons of Berk are not entirely protected because the massive horde of dragons that have accumulated in the area have made them more vulnerable because their location is so well-known to dragon-hunters. Hiccup establishes that the safest place for the dragons is the mythical and unknown location called The Hidden World, and he sets out on a quest with the rest of Berk to find this land where the dragons will be with their own kind, free and at peace.

A movie like this requires a terrible villain, and while one may immediately consider such a persona to be wild and fierce and deadly, it is quite through that the opposite can be equally terrifying. Grimmel the Grisly is the dragon hunter responsible for the decimation of the Night Fury population (of which Hiccup’s black dragon, Toothless, is one), and in his quest to hunt the breed to extinction, he sets off on his own journey to kill Toothless.

Grimmel is a wily villain, and it is remarkable that his characterisation, with its cunning and sinewy kind of evil, with its smirking lips and oily personality traits, comes across so well in the film, which, I suppose, is a testament to how far we have come in terms of animation. He makes a worthwhile villain to a worthwhile hero in this film.

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Lent and Mental Health TODAY I’d like to talk about Lent and how it could actually benefit our mental health.

Lent is the period- just over six weeks- leading up to Easter, a Christian holiday.

It began this past Wednesday, called Ash Wednesday, where ashes are taken on the forehead to mark the beginning of Lent. Lent is about sacrifice, about confessing any failings, seeking and receiving forgiveness and making a decision to live healthier. Traditionally, this was about fasting without food or water to mark the days between Jesus’s death and the moment they discovered an empty tomb. Just shy of one thousand years later, an international agreement of the season came to be - 40 days (plus Sunday’s, although some exclude Sunday’s) - the length of time Jesus was believed to be wandering the desert. However, it has evolved to simply giving up something that you would deem a sacrifice.

Tradition required that all one’s favourite foods be eaten on Tuesday in preparation for fasting. This has evolved to Pancake Tuesday. I should mention that it’s called Lent based on its old English meaning which is to “lengthen”. It signifies the time of the year (after winter) when the days begin to get longer.

I’ve decided this year that I will give up alcohol, something that will actually be quite difficult for me. Not that I have an issue with alcohol or over drinking but I’m the kind of person to unwind with a glass of wine after a stressful day.

I’m the kind that feels more at ease in crowds with some alcohol in me. So to me, this is a sacrifice and I’m excited about the countless benefits that will come along with it.

Lent is a period of reflection and self- discipline and that alone has numerous mental health benefits. The whole point is to rid self- denial and acknowledge any shortcomings that may not be beneficial to you - physically or mentally. Whether you are religious or not, Lent is the perfect time to take a look at our lives and make some adjustments.

Many of us try this at New Years, thinking we have been lucky enough to see a new year and therefore, it can be considered a clean slate. However, I am going to guess that many of you have already disregarded at least one of your New Year’s Resolution. It’s not that you’re weak, many people don’t continue resolutions and here’s why. New Year’s Resolutions are typically common and too vague such as saving money or losing weight. Also, there is not often a specific time frame to work with or to stick to. However, lent is about choosing something specific with a realistic time frame to work with.

It’s not so long of a time that it leaves us overwhelmed but it’s long enough to ensure serious behaviour changes and create new habits.

If you have decided to try but not yet sure what to give up, it’s not too late and I can give some recommendations based on what can help both your physical and mental health.

Fast food or soft drinks - this one is easy to see why, as they both reduce energy and positive mood while increasing weight and therefore the possibility of physical health issues such as cardiovascular issues.

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Are male rape jokes really funny?

THERE is a popular trend that we may not even know was popular until I mention it. In my opinion, we became immune and desensitised to the trend of male rape or sexual assault jokes. Do the jail jokes/ soap dropping jokes ring a bell? In Guyana, there are mentions of this almost every time someone gets convicted and is sent off to prison. One is only left to wonder why do we take heed and protest against female sexual assault even in the form of jokes and it’s not the same for men.

In countless television shows, especially in comedy series and movies, they use these jokes over and over again.

Even cartoon shows that are meant to be for children, pass these jokes off in a lighter fashion. Perhaps, it stems from the patriarchal pressure for men to be quiet and not show emotions. Somehow it’s okay for men, especially those who are vulnerable to be sexually assaulted and not speak up and against it. These jokes are more than just for laughs, it is the sickening thought of society finding humour in the disgusting acts of sexual assault, rape, oppression and patriarchy. Men are also trapped in a system that is so-called designed for them; a system designed for the standard and stereotypical version of a man, that is. Gay men, men who speak out against abuse, male feminists, male rape/sexual assault victims are all examples of the types of men who are forced to be trapped as a result of oppression.

In the era of the ‘Me too Movement,’ it hardly seems as if men are taken seriously with their cases of sexual abuse. Hypocritical are we not? To think that because men are abusers of women in these #metoo cases, we often do not pay attention to any man who is abused by another man. In fact, it’s a bit funny to society to emasculate a man because we see men as strong and unstoppable in nature, it’s weird and automatically humorous to see him fold.

I highly recommend a video called ‘Sexual Assault of Men Played for Laughs’ that was created by the YouTube page ‘Pop Culture Detective’. It’ll further continue the discussion on this disheartening topic amongst us. In fact, it was this very video that inspired me to write this piece. The narrator of the video simply said, “When Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart or Adam Sandler or any other famous comedian amplifies dismissive and toxic ideas about rape in their comedy routines, it’s not meant to raise awareness and it’s certainly not designed to hold up a mirror and give voice to rape survivors.

They’re acting out these rape jokes because it’s an easy way to get cheap laughs. The price of those laughs is the further trivialisation of rape in a culture that already doesn’t take survivors seriously.”

If you or anyone you know was/is a victim of sexual abuse, please contact the nearest police station, hospital or social work organization for help.

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page V

to the empowerment of women. It would also ease all other environmental problems we face-the rapid shrinkage of soil, fresh water, forests, fisheries, wildlife, oil reserves and the looming food crisis,” Dr. Douglas disclosed.

She enlightened that research from the London School of Economics stated that contraception is almost five (5) times cheaper as a means of preventing climate change than conventional green technologies (Lancet, 2009). Adding that no longer should the fact that SRH is a very important aspect of the lives of women be ignored.

INVEST IN OUR GIRLS – SAVE OUR PLANET “Instead we should be smart and invest in our girls’ education about their sexual and reproductive health, and they will in turn make wiser decisions that may just save our planet, since the decisions of our girls about family formation in terms of size and spacing of such will influence future population growth rates and affect the health and welfare of families.

Therefore, we must keep in mind that education and family planning are two human rights that of tremendous importance to life, especially that of women and our girls, and this may just be a key in leading Guyana towards a sustainable and

Another section of the girls at the launch of the Parushi Club

It is well known, she said, that gaining knowledge can change our lives, and this is exactly what this project sets out to do, change and empower the lives of thirty young ladies residing in the village of Ann’s Grove, which is one that has a significant rate of adolescent pregnancy.

She added that with such a project the issue of empowerment will be dealt with at the foundational level by educating, bringing awareness and highlighting better life choices to the young ladies, which would benefit them in the long run.

WOMEN’S ROLE “Often times the powerful role women can play in dealing with environmental issues such as climate change are often ignored. But it is our belief that by investing in educating our girls about their sexual and reproductive health more specifically the use of contraceptives and family planning to avoid unwanted and unplanned pregnancy can have a positive impact on climate change.

“From several studies conducted it was seen that population growth is tied to climate change, and Braun 2009 stated in his article that ‘Family planning should be seen as one of the primary methods of emission reductions.’ He went on to further explain that, ‘Total emissions depend on the number of emitters as well as their individual carbon tonnage,’ This part of the solution is so easy and so cheap and would bring other social and economic benefits from health and education ◄◄◄ From page XV

Recently, a friend explained to me that from next year the world that instructs our microcosm will begin a process to remove terrestrial analogue TV transmissions to be replaced with digital, which translate to the reality and that by 2022 all analogue towers will be useless. I am not a tech pro, but I’m paying attention because the possibilities and downside are not yet clarified. Why is this in a column on the arts?

Simple, since 80 percent of our TV content is captured by towers, if many of our TV stations are unable to afford the adjustments then they are out of business. As such, the lack of the development of ‘Quality Local Content’ translates to us, creative people. Have the TV stations asked GRA to put aside part, say, a two percent of their license and tax payments toward the development of local content? The answer is a resounding NO! A friend, Leslie Gil,l told me that the only complete consistent Local Content on TV is death announcements and this is not exactly sarcasm, and there is the local news, and that’s about it for dramatic entertainment that is none existent, because to produce a state of the art production of even a three-part one-hour-each episode, work has to be done to have distribution beyond Guyana, which means we have to be part of the group that are legitimate engaging recipients of other peoples’ work. The old cinema owners (casually dismissed)- if they were still alive, would have an idea of the distribution networks then that can point to the new people and how it’s done today.

Without copyright laws, enforced that local content is not going to get off the ground. The Valerie Rodway House is a symbolic act and one that signals the blinking of eyes towards an awakening.

XIX green economy,” Dr. Douglas urged.

DELIVERABLES AND OUTCOMES Essentially, the SRHR project is aimed at ensuring that girls and young women are taught about their bodies and their sexual and reproductive systems. At the same time it is also directed at improving the knowledge of continuum of care in maternal and newborn child health of girls and young women.

With these aims as part of the SRHR’s agenda, they are also looking at the improvement of the knowledge, skills and attitudes towards money and financial decision-making of girls; while teaching the girls and young women to be able to look after themselves and others for whom they are responsible, such as friends and their family.

It is expected that coming out of what was imparted to the girls and young women of the Parushi Club, there will be increased contraception knowledge of by participants; delayed first pregnancies and prevention of second pregnancies in all participants by getting all sexually active members on birth control before the programme ends. Also, there will be an increase in self-awareness and self-esteem in all participants, Dr. Douglas posited.

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FILES E S A C COURT

Accused appealed convictions – Alibi was not put to jury

By George Barclay

Appellate Court affirmed convictions & sentences IN 1967 the Guyana Court of Appeal affirmed the convictions and sentences of Appellants robbery accused Carlton Adams & James Lawrence despite allegations that the trial judge erred by not putting the alibi defence to the jury.

Dismissing the Appeal, and affirming the conviction and sentence the Guyana Court of Appeal, constituted

by Chancellor of the Judiciary Mr. Kenneth Stoby and Justices of Appeal Mr. Percival Cummings and Mr. Victor Crane held that : “It is not necessary for the trial judge to give a special direction as he must in respect to certain other defences such as provocation, self-defence and drunkenness, etc.”

The facts of the case disclosed that one man was robbed by one of the appellants as he was about to enter a shop. Two constables who were on duty in plain clothes at a nearby corner were attracted by shouts of “thief” and saw when one of the appellants joined the other one , who had a bicycle , and the two of them rode away.

The two constables gave chase and subsequently apprehended the appellants who, at their trial , gave sworn evidence testifying that they were somewhere else : one said he was shopping, whilst the other said he was making enquiries about work.

Jn his summing up, the trial judge directed the jury on the burden of proof and on the standard of proof but at no time did he specifically explain that the defence was an alibi or give any specific direction regarding the alibis.

On appeal against conviction and sentence the Appellate Court held (i) an alibi, as such , is not a defence , and accordingly, there is no evidential burden cast upon the accused ; (2) where an alibi has been set up, as here, then it is not necessary for the trial judge to give a special direction as he must where certain defences such as provocation, self-defence , drunkenness, etc. raised, once he makes it quite clear that the jury must be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the accused committed the offence charged . If this is not done , then the accused is entitled to the benefit of any reasonable doubt.

Mr. Desmond Christian represented the appellants, while Senior Crown Counsel, Mr. W. G. Persaud appeared for the respondent.

Delivering the judgment of the Guyana Court of Appeal, Chancellor Stoby said, “This appeal, which was admirably argued by Mr. Christian for the appellants, raises once again the question of what is the proper direction to be given to a jury when the accused’s answer to the charge is an alibi.

“The appellants were charged with robbery with violence . A witness gave evidence that as he was about to enter a shop in Regent Street one of the accused attacked and robbed him.. This witness chased that accused and saw him joined the other accused who was waiting on a bicycle at Rsgent and Alexander Streets. The two accused rode away and were pursued for a considerable distance by this witness. Unknown to the participants of this incident , two police constables on duty in plain clothes were standing at the corner of Alexander and Regent Streets, Attracted by shouts of “Thief” they saw one of the accused join the other accused and saw them both ride away. They followed on a motor cycle and caught up with them some distance from the starting point . As the policemen approached the two accused, the later abandoned their cycle and ran into a nearby yard . The Police followed .

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The main cause of tooth loss palate. If possible use tartar control toothpaste.

It should be noted that toothpaste is not necessary to maintain good oral health. Finally, rinsing the mouth vigorously with plain water helps to keep down the bac-

IT IS well established that gum disease in its advanced state is the leading cause of tooth loss worldwide. It is this disease that is responsible for a significant portion of the toothless grins that we see so frequently. It is the same disease that contributes so greatly to the tens of thousands of denture existing mouths of our compatriots.

For some indiscernible reason, nature has decided that the most devastating diseases of humans do not generally present notable warning signs. Among the numerous are cancer, AIDS, glaucoma and gum disease. For example, this happens to seven out of every ten Guyanese adults who have natural teeth. You are brushing your teeth and when you rinse and spit, you see blood. No big deal, you think to yourself; after all, nothing is hurting and it happens all the time anyway.

Well, it is time to think again. You are very likely to be suffering from the worse dental disease in the books. Bleeding gums is a major sign of periodontal disease, chronic gingivitis or periodontitis. All these high sounding words simply denote the condition we know common as gum disease.

Gingivitis is inflammation, swelling and bleeding of the gum tissue caused by bacteria that naturally coats everyone’s teeth. The bacteria form a sticky, whitish film on the teeth called plaque. If the plaque is not properly removed every day, the bacteria produce poisons that irritate the gums and make them red, swollen and likely to bleed easily.

Eventually, the poisons destroy the gum tissue causing it to separate from the tooth and form pockets. The pockets hold more bacteria and detach even further. This stage of the disease cannot be reversed and it can destroy the bone and soft tissue that support the teeth. This is why they shake excessively and have to be extracted.

Most gingivitis results from poor oral hygiene. Incidentally, the cases of gingivitis which do not come as a consequence of poor oral hygiene may cause as a result of AIDS. Gingivitis usually develops due to not brushing and flossing correctly or sufficiently and not having teeth professionally cleaned regularly.

Other factors may increase the risk of developing gingivitis. These include stress, hormonal imbalances like pregnancy, menstruation and the changing hormones of adolescence.

Some diseases such as diabetes and drugs like Dilantin (used to treat fits) can cause gingivitis flare-ups. Even habitually breathing through the mouth, which tends to dry out the gums and cause overgrowth of the gum tissue, can enhance the chance of one acquiring gingivitis.

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and it is completely curable. The damage caused by gum disease, on the other hand, cannot be repaired. How can you avoid gingivitis?

Use the Dental One-in-One Rule, also known as the Rule of Thoroughness. Each tooth should be cleaned (brushed and flossed) for a period of one minute every 24 hours.

Find a routine and stick to it. Start at one spot in the mouth each time and work around the mouth the same way each time. It will help to be consistent and prevent missing tooth surfaces. Remember to brush the tongue, gums and

teria population as a temporary measure in the absence of brushing.

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XVI

Another element that viewers need to watch out for when going to see this film is the astounding animation that is found in the film – it literally takes one’s breath away when because of how rich and lush and well-infused with colour the entire production is. The dragons themselves are one thing – some long and lean, others short and stout, some with two heads, some with more, some in silvery white, others in dazzling combinations of purple and gold and red and indigo – but it is the animation of the locales that is truly spellbinding, whether the dragons are playfully chasing each through storm-stained clouds, or whether the ships of Berk are speeding away from danger on the surface of the blue ocean, or whether it is in the Hidden World, where the dragons dwell in a massive space of glowing stones and whirling lights. Spectacle is not enough of a word to begin to describe what this film’s artwork is like.

The music of “The Hidden World,” by the fantastic John Powell, like the music of its predecessors is also of a high standard, invoking both the sublime and awe-inspiring beauty of the world in which the story exists. With certain types of tales, one can always expect a certain kind of music, and with this particular film, that definitely happens as the epic, orchestral kind of tone does come through. However, Powell’s music manages to move beyond merely representing the genre of the epic and manages to integrate itself into the smaller, more emotional moments of the film, which makes those little moments become epic in themselves with the addition of the music, and that, somehow, manages to make all the difference in the film, especially when it comes to making the audience relate, on an emotional level, to what they are watching. In short, the music is responsible for the tears as much as the writing, the voice performances, the animation, or any other element of the film, if not more so.

The film is bolstered by strong acting performances, especially from Jay Baruchel as Hiccup, America Ferrera as Astrid, F. Murray Abraham as Grimmel, and Kristen Wiig as Ruffnut. However, the true star is undoubtedly the seamlessly drawn animation which gives life to the whole story, but also brings to the fore, the most important aspect of the film, which is Hiccup’s relationship with Toothless. In “The Hidden World,” there is pain and heartache, such as in the wonderful battle in the climax where Grimmel captures Toothless in a high-stakes and dizzying display of artwork, but the film also presents moments of staggering beauty, such as the scenes where Toothless encounters and tries to impress the Light Fury. The great thing is the way in which both the beautiful and the sorrowful are presented, in such splendor and wonder, that without a warning, quick as the flap of a dragon’s wing, either one can make the audience start to tear up in the theatre, and that, to me, is the mark of a good film. ◄◄◄ From page XVII

Alcohol – the health benefits range from physical such as improve liver function to mental including lowering the risk of depression and other illnesses. This will also improve your general way of life – such as your relationships, self-view and levels of productivity and efficiency.

Cigarettes- we all know the physical health benefits that come with this but did you know that those who smoke are less likely to exercise, sleep well and focus for long periods of time- all things that affect mental health. Social Media- I would say this is one of the hardest and the one with the biggest effect on our mental health. Social media almost promotes and encourages low self-esteem, self- hatred, loss of productivity and so much more.

Procrastination – believe it or not, this is something that you can actually give up. Benjamin Franklin said ‘Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.’ He was on to something because procrastination brings about or increase already existing stress and anxiety.

If you are worried about staying strong during Lent, I would advise that you use the wise principle of Alcoholics Anonymous – one day at a time; focusing on all 40 days at once will be overwhelming. When you have cravings, stop what you’re doing and acknowledge them. Remind yourself of its normality and experience the average 20 minutes that they last for. Humans are now spoilt by instant gratification but it doesn’t mean we have to give in to the urges. I want you all to understand that craving is simply your mind and body encouraging you to repeat an activity that once brought them ‘feel good’ chemicals and the more you give them, the more they will crave it. However, if and when you stop, you can train the brain to crave other, healthier things. Good luck everyone - sacrifice brings strength and resilience Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Or come in to see me at: Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs!

Always!

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Heavy medical costs can be avoided TODAY in Guyana the greater part of the population trust in and would use only Western Medicine which is practised and offered at all the hospitals and health centres. This contrasts with the mode of treating the sick in the 19th century when there were few Western-trained doctors or hospital facilities in the country. Today if anyone suffers from a cold or influenza or other common ailments like measles, indigestion or diarrhoea, that person would immediately consult a doctor. Many people would go to Private Hospitals where the consultation fees and other medical costs are very expensive but they incur such expense which they could ill afford because they are conditioned to think that if they did not seek such help, it could result in serious repercussions.

This is especially true of children and babies, where at the least discomfiture they suffer, parents are usually overcome with fear that worse is to come and they consult doctors. This contrasts with the situation in the 19th century where there was less fear and more knowledge of common ailments and most families used a variety of home-remedies quite effectively.

Until after World War II, the vast majority of Guyanese did not depend on doctors or hospitals when they suffered common or minor disorders. If they suffered from ailments which required surgery such as appendicitis or broken or fractured bones, they would consult a doctor or go to a hospital. they treated most common ailments at home.

Sometimes they would consult a trained nurse who would often do the procedures which only doctors do today. (There were many nurses practising privately, many of them returnees from America). There were also a number of chemists and druggists who practised privately and who owned drug stores. Most importantly, all mothers knew how to treat their babies and children and such knowledge was propagated by the nurses, the druggists but more especially by housewives among themselves. Further, books on home nursing and first aid were widely available and most families would have one or two of these.

In every home, no matter how humble it may be, there was always an area which was converted into a sick room which was kept spotlessly clean and smelt of a disinfectant usually, Jays Fluid, and of Bay Rum or Limacol. Bay Rum was the Barbadian equivalent of Limacol. The medications kept at home were the usual basic ones used at the hospitals. The home nursing tradition throughout the West Indies was influenced by the teachings of Florence Nightingale.

During World War I, Sulphur drugs were discovered and put into universal use.

Patients began to treat themselves and the sick room culture gradually faded away.

Just at this time, a large number of OTC medications became available and this also led patients to treat themselves. Just at this time, also, doctors began to prescribe the patent drugs sold by drug stores (OTC- over the counter drugs) and moved away from prescriptions which had to be compounded

by a druggist.

During World War II, Penicillin and later on a number of other antibiotics were discovered. Anti-biotics was one of the greatest discoveries of Western Medicine and was used for most ailments. Though anti-biotics were strictly prescription drugs, many persons acquired them without prescription resulting in many persons developing immunities from misuse. At all Government-controlled institutions hospital treatment, consultation and provision of drugs used for the more common ailments are free. This system of Socialist Medicine is a boon to the population. Unfortunately, one has to wait for fairly long periods for consultations and treatments at the Governmental health institutions; these institutions also do not have the equipment to do certain tests or enough equipment for certain procedures such as dialysis. These deficiencies of the Public Health system have led to the growth of a number of Private Hospitals.

These Private Hospitals provide a generally good service but their charges are extremely high since profit-making seems to be their main focus. The majority of patients who use the Private Hospitals do so because they had been unable to use the Public Hospitals for a number of reasons since the charges with which they are faced demand very great financial sacrifice and could impoverish many people.

Consumers and other members of the public could avoid being burdened with heavy medical costs by first, keeping one’s self in good health by eating properly, exercising, and avoiding stress by realising that both future and past do not exist and only concentrating on the present. There are a number of books on good health easily available as well as many sites on the Internet. Second, use well-tried home remedies, knowledge of which could be easily obtained from numerous publications on home treatments and first aid and also from the Internet. Third, use the Public Hospitals whenever possible since they are free. The Georgetown Public Hospital is being computerised and greater orderliness is being instituted ensuring that there is quicker access to doctors and treatment.

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#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

International Women’s Day! THIS year’s observance of International Women’s Day is organised under the theme: “Balance for Better.” It calls for gender balance in income equality, in leadership, in safety and health, in education and really, in all areas of life.

In Guyana, the concept of women championing their rights is nothing new. Kilkenny (1991) acknowledged that since 1946, Janet Jagan and Winifred Gaskin formed the Women’s Political and Economic Organisation (WPEO) as part of their efforts to ensure the political education and organisation of women in British Guiana and to promote their economic welfare and political and social emancipation.

These were women that championed the rights and development of women and struggled to include the demographic into the country’s political leadership- who later became part of the two major political parties with Jagan even becoming President of Guyana in 1997.

And Cecelia McAlmont (2001) noted that since 1946, women have been involved in political leadership- albeit fewer than menbut this number has been increasing during each cycle of Parliament. In fact, following the most recent regional and general

elections in 2015, Women in National Parliament index had rated that Guyana’s female representation was ahead of many countries in the world. Here, Guyana recorded 34 percent female representation.

But while it is all good and well-meaning to encourage women to ascend to these leadership positions, it must also be acknowledged the negative side of this.

Cecelia McAlmont (2011), in her study of the participation of Guyanese women in politics in Parliament before 1992, noted: “... women tended to be appointed to “social ministries” relating to health, welfare, education, culture, sports, and women’s affairs. These meetings dealt with traditional feminine issues but had little clout.”

Even to date, we can see that this has continued. Female largely occupy positions in these ministerial positions. There are some cases that stand out, for e.g., Ministers Annette Ferguson and Simona Broomes hold ministerial positions in the Public Infrastructure and Natural Resources Ministries respectively. Even though they are only the junior ministers here, they are at the helm of traditionally male industries.

And it goes without saying that I will acknowledge the historic 102 women in the

current United States Congress, as well, when talking about women in leadership.

I am utterly in awe of so many of those women- particularly the ‘Fresh(wo)men’ like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. But while the world celebrates their election and accomplishments in this regard, we must also recognise the microaggressive behaviours that they are constantly faced with- I mean just look at how Ocasio-Cortez was called out for a fairly normal video of her dancing as a college student.

This is microcosmic of the wider situation of women in leadership; women are held to a higher standard and are afforded less freedom to make mistakes.

What is important for me, in understanding the gendered dynamics of women in leadership, is that appreciation of the institutional knowledge women possess as a marginalised demographic. I believe that they are able to lead better because they understand what it is like to have less yet, in many cases, do more.

Whether it is receiving less pay, fewer opportunities or on the flip side, more discrimination, I truly believe that women bring insight into these issues to the table.

At home, we are not short of amazing female trailblazers and champions. And that

extends far beyond political participation.

In fact, I’ll say that in Guyana and the Caribbean, the concept of women having less and doing more is truly illustrated. Women have unique roles to play in this society and one of my favourite points of reference when talking about women in the Caribbean is Edith Clarke’s “My mother who fathered me”.

The title of the study encapsulates the reality in the Caribbean. Women have been the head of the household; they have been the providers and caregivers. And while in the traditional family system the males have been at the head of the household, in the Caribbean a great majority of the families are headed by women. Of course, this is owed to those plantation experiences that created a pervasive situation of male absenteeism, but the bottom line is that we have a society that is built upon women- working doubly hard.

And in pushing for ‘balance’ in the local context, I think it becomes imperative to consider all of these factors. Women have been agitating for their rights and involvement locally for a very long time- even in light of the microaggressions they might endure. And more than that, women have been the foundation of society and ought to be given greater recognition.

On a journey Julianna to heal women Clay SHE’S a Numerologist by profes sion; she teaches metaphysics, health and holistic healing, Vedic astrology and focuses on physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing.

“I basically empower women by teaching them about their spiritual selves as well as their mental and physical selves,” Julianna Clay told the Pepperpot.

She shared her philosophy, which is: “We are spiritual beings as well as physical beings.”

And for her, it is important to recognise this. But a lot of persons, according to her, only focus on the physical aspect of things, but do not necessarily work on their mental and spiritual sides.

To remedy this, she has been trying to spread spiritual healing, in her own ways.

About eight months ago, she formed her ‘Queen’s Lounge’ on Facebook. It’s a private group, that’s free for all women and it is something that she guards fiercely. She also has a men’s group- King’s Lounge- where she provides healing to males.

Clay explained that she formed this group because she was living in the UK for a while and had toured all over the world, and it was there that she met different women who she managed to connect with.

“They depend on me for my word and

judgement, whether with a health issue or emotional one… Every day I would have received over 20 emails from women, so I just decided to group them into a space,” the woman explained.

“The groups are not new to me, I formed a Whatsapp group a few years ago but we got too grown for that and so we changed to Facebook…Networking is my thing; getting people together and teaching people effectively and telling them how to heal themselves from the inside, out and not from the outside, in, is important,” she said. “He who looks on the outside dreams, but he who looks on the inside awakens.”

Business-wise, she is a spiritual teacher and healer. Her business page is Divinity 101.

She gives spiritual classes to help persons become the best versions of themselves.

“Right now I am especially healing Guyanese and Guyanese women… from their inside out in their mind,” the woman explained.

“By helping them to know themselves, it will help them to eradicate certain things- like domestic violence.”

In fact, eradicating domestic violence is one of the major reasons she endeavoured in this regard. She stressed that domestic violence is a problem in Guyana and there needs to be a greater effort directed to combat this.

Playing her part in the fight, Clay said: “I plan on healing their minds and their spirits.”

She also has a radio programme- the ‘One Love’ show- on 96.1 FM on Thursdays and Sundays, from 18:00 hours to 19:00 hours.

She shared that she aims to spread the good vibes here.

Moving forward, she also indicated that she is working on building her website where she can have her own platform and where she would be able to share her services.

She plans on introducing chakra healing and cleansing, Rekhi healing, spa services and couple compatibility programmes. She also plans on hosting various fundraising events, trade fairs, spa dates and a sip and shop events- all in an attempt to empower women and Guyanese.

In this regard, she will also craft her ‘Sisterhood Experience’ tour where women can meet every quarter and discuss issues related to women while being surrounded by nature.

In fact, she opined that nature is the greatest teacher and that by being together, people can learn much from each other. According to her, it does not matter about age, class or creed, all persons are similar in some way.

As she continues her journey of spreading these good vibes, she urged all- especially women- to remember: “Even your darkest day has a role to play in the sacred process of blooming.”

She also stressed that persons “trust their journey” and remember that they are not as

alone as they think.

To get in touch with her, you can easily find her on Facebook: Judah Benjamin.

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Women of Guyana International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8 every year, is a day dedicated in celebration of the triumphs of ordinary women around the world and to bring to the forefront, the socio, economic, and political matters that infringe on their rights.

In this edition of Government in Action, we explore the meaning of womanhood, as defined by five Guyanese women, as they strive to see the emergence of a gender inclusive and balanced Guyana.

DEFINING WOMANHOOD Ms. Nonadai, Market Vendor: “Being a woman means a lot of things. You have to be responsible. You have to focus on your dreams. You have to be self-conscious and think about the future” Ms. Adrianna Chappelle, Translator: “I am a mother of three wonderful kids…

Andres, Telisha, and Adane. My profession is translating. My first language is Spanish so, since I had that asset, I just went into the translating field… I’ve always [thought] about being a woman as a very hard task…

I define myself as a bird with a broken wing that had to learn how to fly… You know, most people [see] women as this fragile something… [They say,] ‘She can’t do this and she can’t do that’ when [women] are like a bomb. You don’t know a woman’s full potential when you see [her]. She could be walking in heels, but you don’t know if she does construction work. She could be all delicate but you don’t know what she’s been through. That’s the thing with women. I think women’s day should be every day because when a man can up and just leave, a woman has to stay.”

Dr. Ruth Benjamin-Huntley, Medical Practitioner: “I believe that being a woman is a really blessed experience. God has made me a woman and… my faith has helped me

It has helped me to fulfil part of that purpose, first as a helpmate to my husband and a helper to people in general.”

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger.

to define my estate in a deeper manner. I also believe that it has… empowered me to fulfil

Ms. Adrianna Chappelle and her son, Adane strike the International Women’s Day pose for gender balance. The pose symbolises the leveling of the scale, creating true equality between men and women.

my role, to understand that there is a purpose to why God made me and all women, women.

WOMEN AT WORK Over the years, women have shattered glass ceilings in almost every field, some of which are still dominated by males, and often times while juggling the management of a household. These women cite the hard work and varied sources of inspiration that fuel their drive for success.

Ms. Amna Ally, Minister of Social Protection: “I started my political career since I was age 14… It started with my father who was then an active politician, insisting that I have to be involved in politics and so I took my cue from that. I got involved with the [People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR),] the Young Socialist Movement… and I worked my way up to right where I am today.”

Ms. Nonadai: “I [have been] selling here [Bourda Market in Georgetown] for about 50 years… I was just nine years when I came with my mother and I’m 61 now. I enjoy it. It wasn’t easy [at] first. It was hard. Some days you don’t even get a meal, but [in] the long run, you enjoy it because as you get [older] the work gets easier.”

Ms. Maxine Graham, Deputy Commissioner of Operations: “In my younger days going to school I always… admired the discipline of the police force and I always had a passion for serving my country… So, I said I will make the police force my career because I have a passion for serving my country and actually doing work for people… In my profession, I [have] done a degree in social work and I’m completing my masters in social work and that tells you that I have a passion for dealing with social issues and dealing with people generally. I’m a people person.”

Ms. Tiffiney Tyrrell-Hunter and her daughter, Tenifa strike the International Women’s Day pose for gender balance. The pose symbolises the leveling of the scale, creating true equality between men and women.

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Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Ms. Maxine Graham.

Dr. Benjamin-Huntley: “Believe it or not, when I was a young teenager, I saw a movie… and in that movie, there was a young doctor. He was male and I was impressed with his attitude with his patients. He was young. He was married. He had a young family, but he showed a heart of compassion.

He understood what he was dealing with. It really reached my heart and I said to myself, I would like to be a doctor, and I would like to be a doctor like that.”

M s. Nonadai and Ms. Chappelle have prioritised the care of their children and credited their stable upbringing of their children as the driving force behind their success.

Ms. Nonadai: “[Women] should know who they are and what they really want in life.

They should focus on their dreams; what they want and work [toward] it. You have to work for whatever you need in this life. It doesn’t come easy. You have to work on it… [My children] mean a lot to me… That is why I’m working so hard. They mean a lot. As a woman [when] you have children you have to look out for them. [Even if] they don’t look out for you, you have to look out for your children.”

Ms. Chappelle: “Every time I look at them [my children], each step that they go through, I tell myself I cannot give up because if I give up… they [will] go through the cycle that I went through and that’s not what I want. I want them to have a better future and I owe them. They don’t owe me anything. I owe them. For bringing them in the world, I owe them a future… I always tell myself you have to be good. Today, it’s a bad day, but you get up tomorrow, you comb your hair, you put on your makeup, you put on your fancy shoes, you walk [on] the road like nothing happened and you do it because they deserve it and because you deserve it as well as a mother.

You deserve it as a person.”

GENDER PARITY: A NATIONAL PRIORITY Since taking Office in 2015, President David Granger and his Administration prioritised gender parity, a stance that is deliberately reflected in the appointment of ministerial positions and the selection of National

away from home for me... I learned with [Ms. Clonel Samuels-Boston (Coordinator of WAD)] how to be grateful for the little things [that] you have… So, with WAD, yes, I’ve learned to be confident, to stand up for my rights as a woman, and to say that yes, I can do this. Anything that a man can do, I can do… [Change] has to start from the small ones, not just the big ones… We have to start with the younger ones. Target schools, target the small ones at home.”

Ms. Makeiza Larose and her son, Omali strike the International Women’s Day pose for gender balance. The pose symbolises the leveling of the scale, creating true equality between men and women.

Awardees. This year, Dr. Benjamin-Huntley will be counted among the national award recipients.

Dr. Benjamin Huntley: “Of course, I was elated. I was so thankful… When I got the phone call, it was given to me before I got the official announcement so, I was told to keep it quiet… Oh, was it difficult to zip my lip, but I kept it quiet until it became official… It feels awesome… I’m so thankful that the country of Guyana has honoured me because… I’m not from Guyana. I’m from Jamaica, but I’ve always felt it my duty and responsibility to serve wherever I am as best as I can and it was no different here. I was so welcomed. I was so in love with Guyanese that it wasn’t a challenge to serve them so I’m thankful that they have sought to reward me this way.”

Minister Ally: “We have an Acting Chancellor who is a woman. We have a Chief Justice [Ag] who is a woman. You have many women who are frontliners in the political scenario. So, women in Guyana they have much to be proud of.”

Deputy Commissioner Graham: “I find that there is no difference between a male and a female. It is the Guyana Police Force as a whole and it’s what you want to make out of the organisation… Coming into the organisation, even though there [are] more males than females, there is scope [for] a woman if you want to be a part of it… If you choose to… go out and work in the field, work at stations and get that experience [or] work on the patrol, all of these things will build your capacity and make you a strong woman.”

President Granger has said that the Government is working assiduously, through the Ministry of Social Protection and through women’s organisations, to ensure that true gender parity is achieved in Guyana. Ms. Chappelle has been a beneficiary of one such programme, implemented by the Women Across Differences (WAD), for several years since becoming a teen mother. She strongly feels that the empowerment of women should begin as early as possible.

Ms. Chappelle: “[WAD] is like home

WOMAN TO WOMAN: A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT Dr. Benjamin-Huntley: “I would like to encourage [women] to be very thankful that they’re made women. That’s a special calling from God and regardless of where you may be, professional, home, [or] working on the street, whatever you’re doing, you’re still a woman. Go forward with certain grace. Begin to recognise inside of you, that God has made you for a purpose.”

Ms. Nonadai: “I think all women should get up and work and think for themselves.

They should be independent. Don’t depend on anybody and life will be much better.”

International Women’s Day Message from First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger “Sisters, let us live the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day celebration. Think equal, so that we will accept no less than equal status in our homes, our workplaces, our clubs, our communities. Build smart. Seize every opportunity for relevant training and development so that we continuously move forward and upward, sharing and building on the skills we acquire. Innovate for change. Refuse to be defined by others.

Rather, think outside the box and never be afraid to choose new paths for our social and economic growth and development.

The struggle continues. Happy International Women’s Day, my sisters of Guyana.”

The Government of Guyana is behind women, all women and will continue to push programmes and support organisations that elevate women from every strata of society until the scales are balanced in favour of a future that is female.

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International Day of Forests Guyana has a vast forest which covers more than three-quarters of its landmass and contains numerous tree species. Additionally, Guyana has a very low deforestation rate which is often used as an excuse for mismanagement of forest resources. However, our forest provides invaluable services and the importance of protecting and conserving our enormous forest resources cannot be over-emphasised. Therefore, Guyana will be joining the

rest of the world on Thursday, March 21, 2019, in celebrating this very important and diverse ecosystem; the forest.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FORESTS March 21 has been designated as the “International Day of Forests” by the UN General Assembly. The goal of this observance is to help us to appreciate the importance of forests and of trees to our world and to raise awareness of the threats.

Each year a theme is selected to highlight a specific area of interest; this year’s theme, ‘Forests and Education’ seeks to raise awareness on how sustainably managed forests provide a wide array of contributions in this area. Therefore, education is vital for the proper management of the forest.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FORESTS Forests not only provide livelihoods for more than 1.7 billion people and over 2000 indigenous cultures; they provide more than 50 percent of the shelter for species such as insects and animals. They also balance out the levels of oxygen and CO2 in the environment; protect the watersheds which supply fresh water to rivers; provide food for a variety of insects, mammals, birds and reptiles and can cool the air in urban areas by as much as 2 to 8 degrees Celsius.

WHY SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED? Over 32 million acres of forests are lost with every passing year. This removes vital habitats for numerous plant and animal species, lowers carbon dioxide absorption and oxygen production, and increases the world’s collective carbon footprint. In fact, almost as much CO2 is emitted during deforestation efforts as is by the world transportation industry. Forests still cover around 30 percent of Earth’s land mass, but these important natural resources are shrinking day by day.

The most common pressures causing deforestation and severe forest degradation are agriculture, unsustainable forest management, mining, infrastructure projects and increased fire incidence and intensity. These are all issues which can be addressed with proper management of the forest.

GUYANA AND THE EUROPEAN UNION PARTNERING TO STRENGTHEN FOREST MANAGEMENT Guyana and the European Union (EU), supported by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), in 2018 inked a forest agreement EU-FLEGT/VPA to help to ensure that Guyana’s forests are valued, managed and conserved now and for future generations. This agreement which started years prior is held as historic and now sets an example for the Caribbean Region as the first VPA in a Caribbean country.

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Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel

... Inspiring lives through fashion

Our young ladies should be a priority

I am enjoying Women History Month more than any year I can remember. It started with very energetic young ladies from ten schools at the Theatre Guild for the Living with Intention Youth Forum which was free for the students. Then the Women in Business Expo and INSPIRE YOU event was hosted on March 2-3. What gave me even more energy is the messages received from the exhibitors, patrons, students and teachers after the event on how the event impacted their lives. One headteacher called with great excitement in her voice “Miss Noel your name is ringing in my school and the children want the date for the next event,” she said.

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Boxing fraternity, relatives and friends say goodbye to ‘Len’ Beckles

By Wendella Davidson

CLOSE relatives, friends and boxing fraternity paid their last respects to the late Claude Lennox Beckles, former super lightweight champion of Guyana, on March 1 at a simple yet solemn ceremony to celebrate his life at the Sandy’s Funeral Home, Chapel Street, Lodge.

His body was later interred at the Le Repentir cemetery Beckles, familiarly called “Len”, who was born on October 12, 1942, and had etched a name for himself in the annals of Guyana’s boxing history in the 60s, died recently in Trinidad and Tobago where he resided with his wife, Joy. He was 77.

Among those at the service to celebrate Beckles’s life were his wife; Steve Ninvalle, President of the Guyana Boxing As-

The body of the late Lennox Beckles being borne out of the Sandy’s Funeral Home on Chapel Street, Lodge

sociation/Chairman of the AIBA Youth Commission; former Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green and a number of local boxing pundits, including Keith Bazilio aka “Buckilo”.

Chase-Green offered a tribute on behalf of the Guyana Boxing Board, while a message from Las Vegas-based Brian Muller, a former national boxer who fought against Beckles during the latter’s heyday and lost, was read by his eldest daughter Kelly-An. Muller recalled, at age 14 becoming mesmerised with Beckles’ boxing skills and eventually introducing himself to the boxer and later becoming a boxer himself, while serving in the Guyana Defence Force, with Beckles as the coach.

Ironically, Beckles fought his last fight on May 27, 1979, against Muller.

Beckles’ boxing career spanned some 19 years beginning in 1960 during which time he chalked up a total of 45 fights, which included 34 wins and seven knockouts. Though regarded as a junior welterweight, Beckles also fought in the welterweight and junior middleweight divisions. His first fight was against David Ralph at the GFC ground.

As a pugilist, Beckles ventured into the top classes of his division and made Guyana proud, especially when he fought then Jamaican and Commonwealth champion, Bunny Grant, here in 1967. The fight, which was held at the GFC Ground, was declared a draw. Also in 1967, Beckles fought and lost to Venezuelan Carlos Hernandez.

In 1968, Beckles fought Jose Napoles, a legend in international boxing, for a World Championship title. He lost that fight which was staged in Mexico.

Beckles, during his heyday, also fought against local boxers Ivelaw Stephenson, Caesar Barrow, and Vernon Lewis, American Eddie Perkins and John Cooke for the British and Commonwealth titles in England but lost on points. He, however, returned to beat him in a rematch.

He was also credited for imparting a lot of his boxing skills to some then young pugilists.

The GBBC, in a statement following the news of Beckles’ passing, said it “deeply mourns the loss of arguably, one of the most gifted fighters who has ever graced our land.”

Beckles’ ring craft was similar in style to that of ‘Sugar’ Ray Leonard, Pernell ‘Sweet Pea’ Whitaker and Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather and, had in common with these famous fighters, blistering hand speed and the best footwork ever seen from a Guyanese fighter.

“Lennox Beckles epitomised boxing’s nickname ‘the sweet science’. His mastery of the craft attracted hundreds of spectators every time he fought and he was truly ‘poetry in motion’. His extraordinary skill was a source of great national pride to Guyanese boxing enthusiasts and his exploits left an indelible legacy which helped to lay the foundation for the champions who followed.”

The statement concluded: “The Board deeply regrets the passing of this extraordinary talent and son of the soil who passed quietly in Trinidad where he was residing. He will be remembered as an honoured and cherished member of the Guyanese boxing fraternity”.

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXVIII

The VPA enables the forestry sector to continue to contribute to the national green economy while maintaining low deforestation rates and most importantly safeguard Guyana’s unique patrimony for future generations to come. Further, the Guyana Forestry Commission house the Secretariat and is the focal point for EU-FLEGT. More so, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has received funding under the FAO-EU FLEGT Programme to execute the project, “Providing Capacity Building Assistance to Community Forest Organisations (CFOs) on the on the Environmental Authorisation process in Guyana.” This project will utilise awareness and capacity building as a means of supporting Forest Operators on the process involved in obtaining an Environmental Authorisation in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act, Cap 20:05, Laws of Guyana and the EUFLEGT-VPA legality definition (Annex11).

This initiative involves a series of exploratory

meetings in all relevant Administrative Regions followed by workshops with the identified stakeholders. To this end, 69 CFOs are targeted for this project with the goal of having 70 percent of CFO operations permitted by the end of the project. To date, the Agency has completed capacity building workshops with CFOs and other interest groups in Regions 1, 2, 7, 9 and 10. Participants were equipped with the requisite knowledge and resources to become authorised and ensure their practices are sustainable with is congruent with the theme for this year’s observance.

Join in the celebrations and do your part to care for our forest and secure the present and future generations.

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email us at eit.epaguyana@ gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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After a chase which involved entering into various yards and out on to various streets, one accused was apprehended by one policeman at the corner of Light and North Streets and the other at Light and Robb Streets. The policemen and the two accused were always within their vision and the effect of their evidence was that the men arrested , were. the men who were chased from Alexander and Regent Streets..

Both accused gave sworn evidence.. One said that he had shopped that morning at the material time with his mother in the market.

After concluding his purchase he walked to Light and North Streets, where he was arrested .

The other accused said he was sent to Robb Street to do some work about 1;15 p.m.

He went there and made enquiries at the first house between Light & Cummings Streets

and was sent further down Robb Street.

While walking in Robb Street he was arrested.

One accused called two witnesses to support his alibi.

According to the Chancellor, in his summing-up the judge directed the jury on the burden of proof and the standard of proof, but at no time did he specifically explain that the defence was an alibi or give a specific direction regarding a alibi. He did, however, deal very fully with the defence in language which will be referred to hereafter.

He also said that counsel for the appellants in submitting that the convictions should be quashed for non-direction, amounting to misdirection , referred to R. v. Maraj (i), where it was contended that the trial judge erred in not giving to the jury the direction that ought to be given where a defence of alibi is setup.

In delivering the Judgment of the court, GOMES C.J. said (1961-1962), 4,

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W.I.R. 277, at p. 278): “Where the defence of alibi is set up, the requirement for an adequate direction to be given by the judge to the jury is of such an elementary nature that it should not require constant repetition. The fundamental principle is that before a jury can return a verdict of guilty , they must feel sure that the prosecution has discharged the onus of establishing the guilt of the accused.

“Where an alibi is set up as a defence, not only does that onus remain on the prosecution , but the trial judge is required to go a step further and direct the jury that, even if they reject or do not believe the defence of alibi , they must nevertheless, still consider whether the prosecution has proved all the ingredients of the charge that must be established before they can convict.

“The main reason why that further direction or reminder is required to be be given is that, where an accused person gives evidence on calls witneses, or does both of those things, in support of his alibi, the jury is confronted with two diametrically opposed versions which are created by the presentation of evidence, the truth or falsity

of which can be tested and be determined by them . In such event, a jury, in the absence of the further direction, might think that if they reject the alibi, they must or can only accept the version put forward , by the prosecution.

“That situation, however does not arise where no evidence in support of an alibi is given by the defence or otherwise appears, as is the case here, and the trial judge was therefore not required to give to the jury the further direction mentioned above.”

According to the Chancellor, counsel for the appellant had argued that the appellant had not only given sworn evidence of their alibis but had called witnesses and consequently the case came equally within the rule laid down by GOMES, C .j.

After dismissing the appeal and affirming the convictions and sentence Chancellor Stoby said that while accepting that in certain circumstances a judge should follow the pattern laid down by GOMES C. J., he noted that the reason why in some cases a judge ought to give a special direction in respect of an alibi is solely to make sure that the jury approach the consideration of a verdict in the correct way.

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XIV

One farmer, Kapil Deo Rampersaud said that it is his second crop using the bacteria and the result is tremendous. “Would you believe only one dose of fertilizer I put on the crop since I planted and every day I am picking bora for the past week. My plant doesn’t have any bacteria, any fungus and we don’t have to use much fertilizer so we don’t have so much expense like before.”

Rampersaud said that in his first pick, he had bora that was longer than him. “Usually, we would have yellow leaves at the bottom of the plant but not now. The leaves are green, green.”

Other farmers, Sahadeo Baldeo called “Sudesh” and Deodat Seeodat have shared similar sentiments. They said that they have been getting better quality bora with the use of the bacteria and the crop is also growing fast.

These farmers are being assisted by NAREI’s technical staff, Talita Bristol Razack.

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page VI

But, “Call us what you will, conditions are right and the pay is good. We are treated with no less dignity than our male counterparts and contrary to what persons might think, training is offered and so there’s scope for promotion or upward mobility. ” This is the view expressed by Lashana Harcourt, a proud Postman II, employed at the Ogle Post Office, East Coast Demerara.

Lashana has been employed with the GPOC, covered by the United Postal Union, for the last several years and finds her job interesting. Despite a few challenges such as attacks by dogs, whose owners fail to keep them behind locked gates and flooding of vulnerable areas around Georgetown whenever it rains heavily, for the average Postman, they are able to cope. “In fact, I’d say that a good day is when you can go out in good weather and have 100 percent of your mail delivered. Then we know that we are providing the kind of service that is expected of us, and that’s a good feeling,” she told the Pepperpot Magazine.

And testament to the veracity of her claim about training and the scope for upward mobility, is the fact that the person who now holds the portfolio of Area Manager and Manager in Charge of Post Offices around Georgetown, Donnette Heywood along with Public Relations Officer (Ag), Tiffani Ferrell who also spoke with the Pepperpot Magazine, both entered the Corporation as a mere ‘Postman’ several years ago. But they applied themselves with diligence, hard work, stellar academic performance and the determination to succeed, making it to the top.

The surge of female appointments to the 64 odd post offices around Guyana began around the 1980s, with Donna Alleyne being the first admission. On admission to the GPOC, Postmen do not perform exclusively the job of distributing mail, Ferrel outlined, but are trained in the various aspects of the corporation’s operations and specific types of mail, such as Express, Overseas, Ordinary, Registered Mail, filling the Pillar Pox and Customer Notification, among others.

Asked about qualification requirements, wages and working conditions for ‘Postmen’, Heywood said that applicants need to have a minimum qualification of five Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects. They are paid an attractive salary per month and depending on competence displayed they may be given further training which will place them in a good position for promotion.

As far as possible, the corporation ensures that working conditions are right and that protective clothing is made available to the employees. The package includes trousers and tops; a hat to offer protection against the sun; a bag in which to carry the mail, a motorcycle (provided free of cost ) for males and bicycle for females. Meanwhile, women who are pregnant on the job are not allowed to ride bicycles, but in their best interest are encouraged to walk- which is considered the safer means of conducting their jobs, Heywood said. Umbrellas are optional and not a part of the package.

Meanwhile, rights to time off and maternity confinement are honoured as any other public servant.

When asked why more young men who have graduated from school and are seeking employment are not taking up postal jobs, the response was that with the ongoing need for young soldiers and policemen, a now-female-dominated environment would not be their first option.

Albeit, the officials expressed concern about the practice whereby residents leave their dogs unchained, resulting in vicious attacks being made on postal workers.

“Even the dogs that are usually found wandering about the place are a threat to postal workers, and it is known that dogs generally do not like postal workers and so the minute they see them they begin snapping,” one officer observed. They recalled that on numerous occasions, ‘Postmen’ were viciously attacked by dogs and had to be taken to hospital for treatment. This development has led to the GPOC launching a ‘Mail Box’ campaign, urging citizens to make use of mailboxes which could be accessed from outside the gates.

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page VII

Suzette serves in a more administrative capacity at the moment in that she oversees four different sections of the municipality being the municipal daycare services, food and hygiene and the abattoir, environmental health and vector control, and the maternal and child health clinic. “My job is to ensure that those systems are running efficiently. The heads of those sections will report to me and we plan together to tackle challenging areas.”

NO OTHER CAREER CHOICE Suzette was born and raised at Charity, Essequibo, to parents Juliet Boyce, a retired teacher, and now deceased Rudolph Reynolds, who was a doctor by profession.

After attending Charity nursery and primary schools, she secured a place at the Anna Regina Multilateral School right there in Essequibo and then pressed on to the University of Guyana where she started to pursue a degree in biology.

Due to circumstances, Suzette could not continue down this route and hence opted to start a degree in pharmacy. “ After much convincing, her mom allowed her to participate in the Cuban scholarship programme that the government provided and hence she was able to complete her medical degree in Cuba.

Suzette feels that her interest in medicine and becoming a doctor was sparked while spending time with her father and seeing him do his job. “In my childhood, I always showed a lot of inclination in being like he is.

Most girls normally like to mirror their father and I was the same. At the age of three, I was told I called a number of big words. I was always tagging along behind him,” she fondly recalls.

At around age six, she received her first plastic doctor set which was preserved well into her adult life because she cared for it so well. “It was a great symbol of my childhood and I eventually fell into the exact profession that I wanted. I never envisioned myself in any other career choice. Being a doctor was always my passion.”

PARENTS – ‘DO NOT LIMIT YOUR CHILDREN’ Suzette is grateful for the upbringing she receives and is glad that her mom never placed a limit on her. she believes that children should be allowed to go in whichever direction they wish, choosing to do the job that they best prefer. Otherwise, she pointed out how they can

At just 32 years old, Suzette is heading the M&CC’s Public Health Department

end up with a job that is both frustrating and burdensome.

“Some parents feel that if their children do not fit into that profile as the ideal doctor or lawyer or engineer or some other top flying position, it’s not good enough.

But that’s where they’re wrong because they discourage the children and they end up being nothing at all.”

Suzette feels that if parents show confidence in their children, they will be helping them to reach their true potential. “Once you believe in your children, they can go to the heights you can’t even imagine.

“When I graduated from medical school, I made the ‘Dean’s list’ with distinction, equivalent to a GPA of 4.87 which was mine when I graduated. It just shows that once you like what you do, you will excel at it.”

Suzette is married to Dabria Marcus and is the mother to two-year-old Celia. “Celia is everything. The thing about being a parent versus being a professional; it’s challenging of course, but in medicine, we always get the chance to see other people receiving their bundle of joy and starting their families. So when it’s our turn, the joy abounds. There’s no other like it,” Suzette expressed.

“Everything in your professional life doesn’t make sense unless you can have a child of your own and actually see the value and meaning of life. It gives you that amount of happiness. It’s always studying and dedicating your energies to someone else or being the caregiver to someone else that you’re not related to. So when you get a chance to call somebody your own, it’s a completely different feeling,” she continued.

Suzette does her best to balance her family life with her professional responsibilities. “I give it my best.

I’m usually the last to go to bed and the first to wake up. My husband helps a lot and that’s a great asset.”

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Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXIX

Teachers and children got emotional with stories resonating with their lives. The words “next level for business” and “best year so far” were used by many of the exhibitors.All the speakers received messages from students sharing what they took away and changes they plan to make. One student sent me a pic holding the bookmark they received before going into the venue.

She commended me on my fashion and the difference I am making in society. One teacher said, “Don’t ever stop because our girls need this.”

My mentor John Maxwell said you judge the success of an event by the positive impact it had on people so we can say these events were certainly successful.

When I conceptualised this new forum to add to the list of events, I thought it would be a great idea to collaborate with the youth department. I called the Director of Youth with a high level of enthusiasm to discuss the possibility of a partnership. I got her email sent a letter with the details and asked if the department can assist with a backdrop. I followed up with a message indicating the letter was sent. I received “Noted” and never heard from her to this day. A few days before the event Ramps Logistics sponsored the backdrop. We need to use every opportunity to empower our young people and encourage them to be in an environment that will contribute to their growth.

On International Women’s Day it was an honour to be the guest speaker at St Stanislaus College and again the energy was contagious interacting with the kids.

I did promise this week to continue with the thank yous because I could not have done it alone.

Big thank you to Dr. Paloma Mohammed and her board for partnering with for the venue Thanks to our partners: Ramps Logistics, Integrated Security Services, Ministry of Business, Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Ministry of Public Telecommunications CONTRIBUTORS : Ming’s Products and Services Small Business Bureau, Starr Party Rentals, E Networks 96.1 Voice. FM 93.1 Real FM Icon Media.World Dignity Inc., Metro office supplies, New GPC, Pollo Tropical, Royal Castle, Cara Lodge and king suites SPECIAL MENTION: Hon. Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson, Hon. Minister of Public Telecommunications, Ms. Catherine Hughes, Hon. Minister of Business, Mr. Dominic Gaskin, Hon. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. Ms. Mikiko Tanaka, Danielle John, Trevor Gobin, Jamal Phang, Elizebeth Chan, Lucria Rambalak, Carolyn Murray, Shiv Dindyal, Roger Parent Stanley Ming ,Apostle Claude and Pastor Carol Brooks, Pastor Frank Corbin, Mandy Isaacs, Palm Court , Amrita Rivas-Pierre, Terrence Campbell, We Own Space, Kenneth Parris, Cleadon Brummell ,Veronica Glenn, Nick Boyer, Pastor Denise Harris, Mark Archer, Joan Ramlogan, Mr. Robert Badal, Mr. Montenegro, Kaieteur News Guyana Chronicle, Malika Ramsey, Ariane Mangar ,Nadia French, Paper Craft, Lennox Cush , Duke Lodge, Wendy Hermonstine, Adam Harris ,Nigel Willams, Bhisham Mohamed, Global Printing ,Lite 104.1 FM ,Guyana Chronicle, Kaieteur News ,Guyana Times Nightly News ,News Room. HJTV ,NCN, Merrano Isaacs ,WR Reaz, Eric Phillips, Savitre Sharma, Jasmaine Payne, Nadia French, Avia Maria Lindie, Seroj Mudlier, Hilda Bournes, Dr. Safeeya Mohammed, Christine Neblett, Shamane Headley, Dr. Latoya Gooding ,Ruth Wilson, Derrick Cummings, Pheadra Williams, Namela Schultz, Roshini Boodhoo Persaud, Shawn Heytemeyer ,Joseph Saunders,Dr. Colleen Bovell ,Carlos Montenegro, Joan Ramlogan , Keron Noble, Impressions, Kevin Victorine, Kerwin Bollers,Simone Dowding ,Jean Ann Harry ,Walterine Mc leod Nateica Garaway,Vijoya Taylor , Ruth Wilson ,Renata Burnet , Mike Cummings Management and staff of Pegasus , Nizam S Hussain, Khalid Jabbar ,Christine Neblette , Zulfikar Ally, Cloyette Harris Stoute ,Claudette Rogers ,Alexander Correia, Rennanne Hodge, Ruqayyah Boyer, speakers ,Volunteers, Models , Patrons & management and staff at the Pegasus . A big thank you to everyone who assisted in making INSPIRE YOU & EXPO 2019 a reality.

Let the celebration continue as we celebrate Women History Month.

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English

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, As you continue to prepare examination type questions, continue to recognise key words. Key word recognition techniques ensure that you do proper reading and note exactly what questions are asking.

Misreading of questions is a very unhealthy habit. Do not take it into the examination

room. When there, do a careful assessment of questions. This will help you find those which are quite possible for you to answer in keeping with your correct perception of them. Be wise.

Love you.

GOOD WRITING Using dialogue The eviction crew works thoroughly, re-

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

lentlessly. A coffee table sails out of the house, lands in the yard and breaks a led.

A man, Sir, should keep his “Stop it,” the owner screams.

“I will call the police ... this is friendship in constant repair. criminal. You must pay for this.”

SAMUEL JOHNSON He struggles with the hired hands, three convict-type bullies.

(1709-1784) 1755 “You have broken my table, you … you …”

The irritated mother threw out the dead rat, We will fix that,” the landlord and then screamed. says from a distance. “Soon as you pay.”

Correct: “You have no right to raise the rent,” the The irritated mother threw out the dead rat, tenant complains. “No right at all.” Dressed only in a vest and pair of ragged trousers the and then screamed.

Incorrect: bank clerk looks pathetically comical. They The irritated mother, and her next door must have caught him in bed.

“You know how much tax I have to pay neighbour are good housekeepers.

Correct: today?” the landlord argues. “And the price The irritated mother and her next door of water … and the price of electricity … and neighbour are good housekeepers. the cost of fuel to come here and collect? Then If two main clauses are not part of a you talk of right, huh. The price of food?” series, do not use a comma alone to join them.

“I also eat,” the bank clerk complains.

“That is your problem,” the landlord Remember to add a coordinating conjunction shrugs. “Everyone else is paying the new or use a semicolon.

Incorrect: rent,” his hands sweep round to indicate the The Guyana national flag is green, white, stupefied onlookers and the double-locked gold, black and red, the Guyana national bird doors.

When characters speak: There are rules is the Canje Pheasant.

Correct: that govern what is to be done when characters The Guyana national flag is green, white, speak, and the story moves on.

1. The characters’ exact language should gold, black and red, and the Guyana national be in quotes, and the reader should know bird is the Canje Pheasant.

Correct: who is speaking. Especially when there is a The Guyana national flag is green, white, dialogue scene with a lot of information being gold, black and red; the Guyana national bird passed on.

2. Each speaker gets his or her own para- is the Canje Pheasant.

A comma should not be used between graph; a return and indent. This mimics real a subject and its verb or between a verb and conversation, indicating pauses and so forth.

Example: “You have broken my table, you its complement.

Incorrect: . . . you . . .”

What the principal thought fit to do, was “We will fix that,” the landlord says from beyond the deputy. a distance. “Soon as you pay.”

Correct: 3. Always use a comma at the end even if What the principal thought fit to do was the line of dialogue sounds like a sentence, and beyond the deputy. punctuation always inside quotation marks.

Incorrect: Example: “She sorts out her garbage,” For my show and tell I will bring, my picobserved Desiree.

4. Punctuation must always be inside tures, four drawings, and some boutonnieres.

Correct: quotation marks: Gregory said, “I wish I had For my show and tell I will bring my picaccepted her wedding invitation.” tures, four drawings, and some boutonnieres.

“What’s wrong with you?” he asked.

What to Do: Each item contains one or 5. Use “said,” “he said,” “she said,” and variations, but not too much. Do not make more examples of incorrect comma usage. variations too repetitious. Use these ascrip- You may need to delete commas, use a semitions/ credits/ tags at the start of quotes, in the colon in place of a comma, or add a co-ordimiddle, or at the end. Do not overuse tags. nating conjunction with the comma.

1. The enormous diversity among flowers, They get in the way of the reader’s understanding about who is speaking. Observe that makes them one of nature’s most delightful a comma is used after an ascription (She said,) creations.

2. Flowers come in all different sizes, and when introducing a quote.

6. If the character is not tied to the quote, have spectacular colours.

3. Some flowers are fragile and easily then the quote is a sentence and the action is broken, others are sturdy. a new sentence.

4. What some nature lovers do not know, Example: Desiree finished her sorting. is that flowers play a great role in pollination.

“There it is.”

5. Some well-known flowers are, orchid, 7. If you show who is talking in the middle of a quote, then the whole statement is one pea blossom, peony, poinsettia, protea, sunflower and heather. sentence.

6. On August 23 1963 there was an imExample: “Can you imagine,” he said, “all portant civil rights march in Washington the churches in the neighbourhood marching D.C. The march was led by Dr. Martin together . . .?”

Luther King Jr. who was a church leader The Comma and a political activist. Dr. King believed Misuse of Commas Do not use a comma before a conjunc- in nonviolent protest and put his beliefs tion that connects a compound predicate or into practice. He organised a boycott of the segregated bus system of Montgomery compound subject.

Alabama in December 1955.

Incorrect:

Chronicle Pepperpot March 10, 2019

Tilapia Fried in Vinegar Sauce

INGREDIENTS 2 lbs Tilapia, Cut in slices 1 Lemon or Lime 1/2 pt Olive Oil 2 Large Onions, cut in rings 1/4 pt Vinegar 2 Clove Garlic 1/2 Green Pepper, sliced 2 Hot Peppers 2 Bay Leaves METHOD FOR PREPARING Remove the Tilapia skin, then wash preferably with lemon, if not then use lime.

Now season the fish, and then lightly dip in flour.

Fry in olive oil and then remove from pan.

Next, fry the onion rings lightly on low heat.

While frying the onion rings add vinegar, garlic, hot peppers, green pepper and bay leaves.

Lastly, add the fried Tilapia and cook for about 5 minutes.

This Tilapia recipe serves about 8 and can be served hot or cold, depending of your preference.

Correction: We apologise for an error made in last week’s edition in which the recipe listed “black eyed peas or soy beans” instead of channa

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