Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-paper 02-03-2019

Sunday, February 3, 2019

An ancient relic The St. Peter’s Anglican Church

Established circa 1827 (almost 200 years ago), the St. Peter’s Anglican Church stands as one of the oldest buildings on the island of Leguan. The church was established by Reverend John Tucker and is located in the community of Enterprise Village on Leguan Island. The current structure, which still holds Sunday Service for Leguan residents, is the second of two churches to be built on the site. (Photo by Delano Williams)

II

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

ESSEQUIBO

Always a part of BANKS Country that Essequibo, like the rest of “The land of many waters”, including the bottled water, Tropical Mist, remains, “BANKS country”.

I was at the recent BANKS DIH Annual Essequibo Shareholders Meeting at Airy Hall, on the Essequibo Coast, in Region Two, last Sunday, and from my own observations, the scores of BANKS DIH Shareholders who attended were displaying the kind of unity which makes for strength, especially in the face of a shameless foreign aggressor.

In declaring that “Guyana is BANKS Country”, some years ago, the management and directors, obviously included all of Essequibo, and so, for nearly 20 years, the company has been holding Annual Shareholders Branch Meetings, after the major one at the Thirst Park Headquarters in Georgetown.

These include Airy Hall on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two; Bartica on the Essequibo River, Region Seven; Linden on the Upper

Shareholders Clinton Dash of Onderneeming and Canadian-born Guyanese citizen David Goodreau of Jacklow, Pomeroon, toast BANKS DIH at Airy Hall. The Essequibo River is in the background. (Photo by F.Q. Farrier)

Bank at Bartica. The Chairman once again made a request for a suitable plot of land on which to build a larger Citizen’s Bank, since the one now in use has become too small to give the quality service to customers as desired by the Management. BANKS DIH Ltd. in its declared announcement that Guyana is “BANKS Country”, the company has also in a way, directed a strong message to Venezuela that Guyana has “A Winning Team.”

By Francis Quamina Farrier THE Bolivian Republic of Venezuela has once again been flexing its military muscle in the face of its smaller peace-loving neighbour, the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. But from all indications, the many international friends of the only English-speaking country in South America, are solidly backing-up Guyana - BANKS Country - and encouraging it to yield “not a blade of grass”, or “one carass”; lyrics from the popular Dave Martins patriotic song which also states, “Not a drop of water from the Pomeroon” River where Dave Martins was born. One of the reasons is

Elizabeth Moonsammy and Neil Dougal, two BANKS shareholders at the BANKS Branch Meeting at Bartica, last Wednesday.

The Essequibo River is one block away. (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

Demerara River, Region 10 and New Amsterdam in Region Six. In this feature article, I am reporting on the two BANKS DIH Branch Shareholders Meetings in the County of Essequibo; the one at Airy Hall was held last Sunday to a packed-to-overflowing venue of the company’s Essequibo Coast location. In his address to the shareholders in attendance, Company Chairman Clifford B. Reis, CCH, informed those present, of the increase in the value of their shares and reminded them of his advice

in the past, not to sell their shares. “The Shareholders’ Net Asset Value per share is now $40.15 per share, when compared with the 2017 Value of $34.33 per share,” he revealed. The Chairman also alluded to the Quality Awards which were bestowed on BANKS DIH products such as the 12-YearOld and 15-Year-Old XM Rums which copped the Grand Gold Medal prizes.

Focusing on the BANKS DIH management and staff as “The Winning Team”, Clifford Reis also told the company’s Essequibo Shareholders of the company’s “commitment to innovative technology, especially in the solar energy sector.” Three days later, on Wednesday last, many of the BANKS DIH Shareholders at Bartica turned up for their Annual Meeting. Bartica and all of Region Seven, is located within the large section of Essequibo claimed by Venezuela, and in asking a young shareholder who resides at the new and large Bartica Four Mile Housing Scheme what was her opinion about the situation, her response was, “No way, Venezuela.”

The Bartica shareholders were also informed of the encouraging improvements in the performances of both the BANKS DIH and its subsidiary Citizen’s

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

III

Nooten Zuil is the epitome of composure

sew really nice clothes for people. She was the seamstress for the village at one time, where she used to sew clothing for children and adults. She used to sew all sorts of uniforms, working clothes and also nice clothes for weddings and such things.”

A welder working on an exhaust in Mr. Ramdat’s workshop

EXHAUST WORKSHOP “I have been living in this village for the past 84 years – I born and grow here. I moved from one part of the village to where I am now, and here I started to run an exhaust workshop,” declared another resident, Mr. Ramdat.

He explained that now that he is getting old, he has somewhat retired from the busi-

By M Margaret Burke LIVING in a culture of a peaceful disposition is the general way of life of the people of Nooten Zuil. This is a village situated some 19 miles from the capital city of Georgetown. Its members, while mostly of East Indian ancestry, also enjoy a mixture of a wide ethnic composition, living like brothers and sisters on their land.

A very large percentage of the more than 2,000 Nooten Zuil residents have continued to live all of their lives in the village, and have all expressed contentment to continue to live there.

The beauty of the place is quite evident by the floral and other decorative plants in yards, in addition to the many types of mangoes, pomegranate and other fruit trees in every yard.

In addition, the village of Nooten Zuil has no nursery, primary or secondary school; no established church; no health centre, community centre or other institution of public operation. This, therefore, encourages the voluntary and involuntary socialising of the villagers with members of neighbouring villages and other communities, and this they do at all ages.

While the main economic activities, for many years, continue to be rice cultivation, as well as cash-crop farming, many residents of the village have been redirecting their attention to businesses such as grocery shops; vending of fruits, vegetables, fish and poultry; spare parts sales and auto repairs, among others.

OLDEST VILLAGE LADY Genevieve Machado, 94, is one of the oldest villagers alive today. She was born and grew up in the village of Nooten Zuil. She was married to Thomas Machado and from that marriage, she bore nine children, seven of whom are currently alive and take pleasure in taking care of her. She is also the grandmother of many.

Machado told the Pepperpot Magazine that her mother and father were also born in the village. She also said that she was the youngest and only girl for her parents; having had four older brothers; all of whom we born

Genevieve Machado, 94, is one of the oldest villagers alive today

and bred in the village.

Her daughter, Marilyn Bharrat, who lives at the house, just behind, told of how much of a joyful thing it is to have the opportunity to take care of her mother.

“You know the saying that once a man, twice a child. My mother is a very pleasant lady, but she knows how to give rudeness sometimes. Just like with little children, she would say ‘no’ when you tell her to do things that she does not want to do, or just because she just want to say ‘no’.

“While she has a grandson in the house with her, I come over every day to help her bathe her skin, comb her hair and do other essential things for her. I try my best to make sure that she is always alright,” Bharrat added.

She told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is comfortable to know that her mother, though alone some of the times, is always safe. This, she explained, is because her neighbours are more like family since they all live well, looking out for each other all the time.

WORKING HER HANDS Machado stated that she does not hear too well on her left ear; also that her left eye is not seeing so well at this time. She explained that she used to sew a lot of clothing for villagers and this lasted for a long time.

Her daughter added, “Mummy used to

He, however, stated that he would like to see the road, especially where he is living done over. At the same time, he would be happy to see the drains in the village dug and cleaned, especially in the areas going down to the back. Nonetheless, as older folks in the village they have no regrets since they are comfortable and at peace in the village of Nooten Zuil, he noted.

THE CHAIRMAN’S DESK Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview with Maureen Philadelphia, Chairman of the National Democratic Council (NDC) within the Grove/Haslington district, she informed the Pepperpot Magazine that the Nooten Zuil façade is cleaned by the National Drainage and Irrigation Association (NDIA) through the water users. The contractor for that project was contacted, and he advised that the excess water from the rice field is released into that main drainage and that causes the vegetation to be growing rapidly, due to the fertilizer.

She added that the Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Hon Annette Ferguson visited the Nooten Zuil community in November last year and had made a commitment to assist in getting the work done.

Because of the amount of money needed to get the road done, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the central ministry, will be contracted in order to get these things done.

She added that the street drains were however desilted last month.

Philadelphia pointed out that she visited the area, along with the councillor representMr. Ramdat, 84 -year-old villager (Photos by Delano Williams)

ness, even though he still do some things.

However, he told the Pepperpot Magazine that his sons are now doing more of the work, which gives him relief.

Ramdat said that while business is somewhat slow at the moment, he is still able to live a comfortable life, adding: “In this village, we live in peace and unity; we do not have problems because we are like family. Then I was always a farmer and so I live on what I have, plus I get my pension, so I have no problem.”

ing the area, who also made representation which was dealt with at the level of the council.

“As a matter of fact, we have embarked on a visit to constituencies and have established public days for each constituency, starting from this month. The first Monday will be for Ann’s Grove at 15:00hrs; the second Wednesday for Victoria at 15:30hrs and the third Thursday visits will be made to Nabaclis at 15:30hrs,” she stated.

IV

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Aiming for perfection

Maxi K. Williams and his multidimensional designs

By Gibron Rahim ARTISTIC design requires much of the artist. The profession is both physically and mentally demanding. This is even more so when designers extend themselves across multiple mediums, though the rewards can be both personally and professionally rewarding. Moreover, designers can use their success to uplift others as well. This is the case for Maxi K. Williams.

Maxi has over 20 years of experience as a designer. He related to the Pepperpot Magazine that, at the age of 13, he lived right next door to the Don Gomes Mash Camp on

Thomas Street. He recalled that he and a friend would look at the costumes, steelpan players and rehearsing dancers over the fence. “It caught my attention,” he said. Even before that; however, he recalled childhood trips to Merriman’s Mall with his grandparents to view the Mashramani costume and float parade. “I can remember seeing all these large costumes coming down the road and I would wonder to myself, ‘Who are those people who are making those things?’” Maxi related. At that time he did not realise that he would one day be a designer himself.

The level of artistry surrounding Mashramani captured Maxi. He noted that it has brought out his ability to design

Maxi K. Williams

for it. He started as a young apprentice in the Gomes Mash Camp at the age of 13. He would later move on to working for Gomes as an optical technician. Today, through his business Maxi K. Williams Designs Plus, Maxi not only designs for Mashramani but also creates interior décor for various events and functions, in addition to being involved in fashion design and costuming. The transition to interior décor felt natural. he told the Pepperpot Magazine. He related that he believes in God and has always been ambitious. “I’m always on that search, that seeking to find myself [and] to become something.”

Even at a tender age, Maxi wanted to do something important with his life. Being a part of Mashramani has led him to see himself as a cultural ambassador who loves his country. “At an early age I decided that I would do something to contribute,” he said. He has recognised that everyone has the ability to make a difference. “I believe that everybody has that gift and I’ve recognised that gift from God, and I keep praying and seeking and asking Him for the next best move, the next step,” Maxi affirmed. He pointed out that he could not have supported himself by remaining solely a fashion designer.

It is the quest for another outlet for his talent that would also allow him to financially support himself that led Maxi to interior decorating. He said that he always gives credit to ANSA McAl. The company supported him when he launched his own Mash band. Moreover, he noted that Troy Cadogan at ANSA McAl, was the one who encouraged him to get involved in interior decorating. “He was the first person who gave me an interior decorating job for his all-white parties and things like that,” Maxi said. From that point on he became more involved in interior decorating. He related that he feels comfortable and at ease in the area. “It just flows and I give God thanks for that.” He noted that he always says to people, “If you’re in the right place, [if] you’re doing the right job, you wouldn’t be stressed [and] you wouldn’t be worried about anything.” He added, “It comes naturally.”

Through Maxi K. Williams Designs Plus, Maxi now has the ability to extend job opportunities to others. “I have so many young people that work with me in contracts,” he said.

He noted that they do their own curtain and upholstery work for events. “I now stand back and create and look over the quality and everything, but I don’t do all the work anymore,” Maxi related. “I give other people the opportunity to learn and to work with me.”

Turn to page XIV►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

V

VI

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

A family trade One of Leguan’s few rice millers tells his story

A donkey being used to facilitate the process of drying paddy (Photos by Delano Williams)

HE was not more than 10 years old when he began helping his father at the rice mill. Lachmie Persaud Doobay and his siblings – 12 of them in all – were taught by their dad everything that the business entails. From going into the fields, planting, drying the paddy, feeding the mill - everything they were taught to do according to the “longtime system.”

Doobay, one of the few rice millers on Leguan Island, who is popularly known as ‘Coachie’, took over the business from his father, Resaul Persaud Doobay (now deceased), about 20 years ago and has been running it almost single-handedly since then.

The older Doobay was young when his close Chinese friend ‘Sue Chuk’ persuaded him to buy the business. ‘Sue Chuk’ had bought it but after a year or two, he was no longer interested. It was then that Mr. Doobay joined with his brother and cousin to make the purchase.

After about two years, Mr. Doobay’s partners left the business. He managed, though, despite being young and having a large family to care for.

The business progressed and came to be known as the ‘LP Doobay and Rajiv Doobay Rice Milling Complex’, located in Doorn Haag Village, at the back end of the island.

“I remember helping him to do everything,” Coachie recalled during an interview with this publication at his rice mill. He added: “Whenever there was a shortage in the workforce, we the children filled in…to steam paddy in the longtime system; dip paddy in the soaking tank. We had to go into the soaking tank and dip with buckets, and all these things we did at a very young age, when we were around eight, nine, or 10 years old.”

The soaking and steaming facilities that Coachie built

Turn to page XXXII ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

No place he would rather be

Herman Austin and his love for Leguan Island Austin with his wife, Lynette

married. He did whatever jobs he could pick up to make ends meet, including provision and rice farming. However, fortunate for him, he landed a job at the Revenue Office and remained there for some 35 years.

When he began his married life, there was no one quite like him. “When I was 20… in those days, life was real nice. I could have spent $1,200 to mind my whole family. Now, you can’t spend that; you have to spend about $200,000,” he joked, adding, “It was sheer rice work man; but life on the island was sweet though you know.”

Reflecting on how he met his wife, he said: “Going to sport and sport, and I meet my wife. One year after meeting her, we got married. It wasn’t hard for me to get her; it was very, very easy. I was a sport man and I was a real dancer too.”

Attempting to toot his own horn, he continued: “When they see you dancing, you pick them up. You get all the girls around the place man…You bring me back to my young days,” he laughed.

Even though he partied a lot, though, Austin would never neglect work or his family. “No, no, no…can’t neglect working at all. If you neglect working, everything done. Sporting time was after work but during work time, no sport. On the weekends we used to have dance every weekend. We had a centre there, but now it break down. Saturday night? Oh God, we sporting ‘til Sunday morning.”

He is still very close to his dear Lynette, and said it is love that kept them together for all these decades. “She’s still there; only the knees got a little weak. Love got we together up to now. Although me and my wife so old, ah still like she, you know, and we going along very nice up to now.”

Austin said his marriage had a good effect on him. “Since I got married, I changed my life up; the wild life and them thing till now. If I had continued with that life, me and my wife couldn’t live to 60 years.” Furthermore, he said all of his children turned out well.

“To be truthful, I never faced hardships you know. Leguan is a quiet place and if I leave and go to Georgetown where have more action, by the time I stay a two weeks, I want to come home. I can’t stay out because I am accustomed to this quietness. There is too much hassle in Georgetown; I ain’t like that place at all,” he said.

A typical day for Austin would see him taking an early morning shower, and then reaching for his hammock where he would spend the rest of the day, until he is ready to shower again in the afternoon and get his bed. “I got to get my papers though…ah reading ma Chronicle, Stabroek and Kaieteur.

Every day, I have to get all three.”

Austin feels that more opportunities need to be created for the youths in Leguan before they fall away to harmful practices.

“I want to teach my grandchildren to live a good life, not a wild life-smoking and ganja and these sort of things.

Although I’m so big, if I open my mouth on one of them, they got to keep quiet you know. They got to listen to me because I don’t stick nonsense at all.”

HERMAN Austin has been enjoying life on the island of Leguan for the past 81 years. There is hardly anything that he’d choose to do differently in his life; or anywhere that he’d rather be.

When he visits Georgetown on occasions, to spend time with his children and grandchildren, he wouldn’t even last a good two weeks before wanting to head home to his beloved island.

Austin, a retired revenue officer, was born and raised at Lot 9 Louisiana Village and at age 21, married Lynette Austin, now 78 years old. During their 61 years of marriage, they raised six children; three boys and three girls. As for his grandchildren, he said they were too many for him to count on the spot.

He left the Success Government School at age 16 and went to work for a bit in an interior location. One year after he returned to the island at age 20, he got

Herman Austin

VII

VIII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

‘I believe that no one is hopeless…’

Young woman dedicates her life to helping juvenile delinquents

By Gabriella Chapman

WHEN a young person is handcuffed and taken to the juvenile detention centre, people often fail to see beyond the crime the youth has been accused of committing. Most find

The children at the Sophia Juvenile Centre being treated with a movie day organised by Surujdai Mukhram

it hard to look at the factors that may have contributed to putting a child on a path to delinquency.

But Surujdai Mukhram, a 21-year-old humanitarian, believes that showering them with love and the guidance they so deserve, will lower recidivism rates, contributing to their future success and the success of their communities.

In an interview with the PepperPot Magazine, Mukhram said that delinquent acts often indicate underlying problems that need attention, such as unmet mental and physical health needs, exposure to poverty, crime and other adverse experiences, or a lack of public services and educational opportuni-

Surujdai Mukhram [centre], partnered with Dr. Steve Baul, local dentist, to host a workshop focused on maintaining good oral hygiene. The children at the Juvenile Centre were then treated to gifts including toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss

ties that facilitate positive youth development.

“Our system, however, is structured to punish the behaviours rather than to understand and treat the underlying issues the behaviours reflect. But I believe it is easier to build strong children than to mend broken men. That is the philosophy that I live by,” the young woman said.

Sharing her story of how she became a humanitarian and an advocate for youth empowerment, Mukhram said: “I was informed of the non-governmental organisation(NGO) ‘EPIC Guyana’ by a potential employer during an interview prior to my graduation in 2016. After learning of my past volunteering experience and personal goals, it was requested that I visit the Sophia Juvenile Detention Facility to speak with the girls being detained. My first month was spent doing motivational and coaching sessions with the girls. Eventually, I began talking to both boys and girls, and because of how well I connected with the children I made it my duty to continue. Over the past three years I have worked with over 300 at-risk children, aged 1017, who have been confined for charges that include accused murder, breaking-and-entering, firearm possession, etc.”

Turn to page XI►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

IX

If only animals had a voice to speak They would have represented themselves and even us while to heal fully from its wounds and trauma.

“We hope that the dog will eventually recover and find a loving, caring home,” the GSPCA stated.

REPORT OF ABUSE The police had informed the GSPCA that according to an eye witness statement the Proprietor of a Chinese restaurant

The dog now, after she received rehabilitation

By M Margaret Burke EVERY DAY animals are forced to struggle for survival, whilst many of them are neglected, beaten or simply left to die. In many cases, they are left ‘out in the cold’ with no food or water, except they find these on their own after straying about the streets. And where they might live as ‘pets’ the conditions are unhygienic and sometimes with no proper shelter or other protective elements.

Many of these animals are dogs – termed ‘man’s best friend’ in some other circles. However, while some people do claim to ‘like’ dogs and want to have them around; they create very little hope for these animals while they are kept.

The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) has over the years been expressing concerns about the manner in which some animals are treated.

The animals referred to are not just dogs, but other animals, especially horses and donkeys that are usually used to provide mainly transportation services, thus offering a means of economic activities for some people.

RESCUE FOR THE PERISHING Fortunately for some of these animals, they are found and rescued from humans being by others, given a new lease on life with the prospect of being able to experience how great life and other humans can be, while on the other hand others are exposed to severe suffering and death.

The GSPCA, as well as other international bodies in the fight to protect animals, have expressed the view that all nations must fight to protect animals from abuse; strive to secure animal rights and consciously work towards a policy that would severely punish heartless owners.

This is what the dog looked like when she was taken to the GSPCA Animal Shelter and Clinic before treatment

Just recently a dog was taken to the GSPCA and the rescuer, Rae Bobb requested that the dog be euthanised (be put to death). According to the GSPCA, the person who rescued the dog did request euthanasia because it was felt that the animal was suffering.

“But based on the assessment of the attending vet, the GSPCA made the call to refuse to euthanise and to give the dog a chance at life and healing… Today the rescued dog is alive and appearing to improve daily, although it will take a

was seen pushing the dog out of his yard. This, the GSPCA said appears to corroborate the proprietor’s claim that it was not his dog and that he was pushing the dog out of his yard to prevent it being attacked by his dogs, as had happened a few days earlier.

Turn to page XI►►►

X

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page VIII

For the past three years, Mukhram has been organising weekly engagements with the youths of the centre, bringing persons of known character - such as musicians, chefs, doctors, journalists and athletes - who have unique backstories that they draw on to inspire the children.

Some of the past guests she said, were Dr. Steve Baul- dentist at IDental DY; Deborah Ellis- Canadian children author; Mr. Alex Moore- local chef; Ms. Ariel Horatio- Headteacher, Vreedenhoop #1 Nursery School; Ms. Harris- past head teacher of Carnegie School of Home Economics; Mr. Gordon Moseley- local journalist, among others.

“Everyone who has achieved success in life has been through rejections, failures and bad times. They never gave up, and through their difficulties they found the light to shine like a diamond. So, when the children listen to the failures every speaker had to go through, it is my hope that it gives them a sense of belonging and motivates them to never give up. Hard times are what make you try twice as hard to finally succeed, so I hope they can feed off of the motivational speaker’s passion and enthusiasm,” Mukhram said.

Children need love, she said, and guidance; however, these are lacking in their lives. So once a month, the young humanitarian would plan a birthday party, where they would have singing, cake, drinks and snacks donated by ‘Value4u’.

She would also host other monthly activities such as movie days and game days.

“These are all activities that are meant to show emotional and cognitive support, love, and nurturing so as to help the children feel safe, comforted, and included in a warm, bonded relationship. These feelings of security actually increase the children’s capacity to learn and to develop mentally and physically. Additionally, I often hold creative and interactive workshops with the children promoting harmony and peace.

Some of these workshops include anger management, conflict resolution, bullying, forgiveness, etc. EPIC Guyana has also implemented remedial classes, haircuts, clothing, footwear and personal hygiene items for the children from time to time. And over the year, we have seen a reduction in aggressive and impulsive behaviour that was previously shown by the children,” Mukhram shared. “No one is hopeless, and I am particularly firm on this when it comes to youth. Even children born into disadvantaged circumstances and teens facing limited choices that threaten to continue negative cycles in their families and communities have the potential to succeed.”

When it comes to thinking about a new path for juvenile justice, Mukhram said that she believes it is essential that mandatory pathways to punishment are replaced with pathways of opportunity.

“Education and rehabilitation play a huge role in changing the lives of youth involved in the justice system.

Research and experience tell us that young offenders’ brains are still developing and are malleable to change.

We must allow them to reclaim their lives and affirm their value in our society and communities instead of locking them up, where they run out of opportunity for the rest of their lives,” said Mukhram. ◄◄◄ From page IX

The dog has been examined by two veterinarians, who were both unable to determine definitively whether the wounds on the dog were made by a dog attack or a human beating.

Additionally, the police informed the GSPCA that there was no eye witness to confirm the accusation made.

IMPRISONED CAT The GSPCA reported that the proprietor of the restaurant has also been accused of locking a cat in a cage all day. However, the proprietor explained that the cat is caged all through the day to keep it out of the restaurant during the hours of business; also to keep it out of the yard to avoid being attacked by his dogs. He says that the cat is loosed in the restaurant during the night to keep the premises free of vermin. Further, the proprietor also stated he is currently involved in a court case with the neighbour who is bringing these complaints against him.

The GSPCA, on the other hand, noted that they greatly appreciate the outpouring of concerns for the safety of animals, more so the rescue and care that was offered to the dog recently.

The association, however, cautions that while the Animal Welfare Act has been tabled in Parliament, it has not yet been enacted into law; that all animal protection laws, whether upcoming or already in effect, requires that due process must be followed and there must be evidence to support accusations.

The GSPCA expressed thanks to Mr. Bobb for rescuing this animal and bringing it to receive the medical care it so badly needed. “We appreciate and applaud the efforts being made by caring citizens, who strive to improve conditions for animals in Guyana,” the GSPCA concluded.

XI

XII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion

A strong foundation vital for young children I SEEM to be around small kids a lot for the beginning of this year and I’m absolutely enjoying it. I’ve visited Rhema Academy during this week, and I was greeted in English and Spanish and that was very impressive. The ages of children at the school range from pre-school to primary. I was not surprised because the founder, Walterine Mc Leod stands for excellence. The motto is “Sowing seeds of greatness” and I certainly observed that from interacting with the kids, and my mind constantly goes back to a Frederick Douglass quote: “It’s easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” We all have to be intentional about investing in children,whether they are our kids or not because their development determines whether our future looks great or not.

One of the things that appealed to me was that all the kids were wearing odd socks and that was because it was odd socks day. It teaches kids that it is okay to be different and it’s okay to stand out and that life is not perfect. These impressionable foundation years are crucial to a child’s development. While chatting with them, I shared one of my favourite quotes from Martin Luther King: “Not everyone can be famous, but everyone can be great because greatness is determined by service.”

I reiterated the greatness they all possess, and encouraged them to develop a mindset to serve. As I exited the school, a thought came to my mind about foundation with regards to building houses. It is advised that the foundation needs to be strong especially if you are going stories up, and I thought about the foundation of people. If we have a weak foundation and we are trying to put layers on that, you will experience difficulties but a strong foundation can withstand a gigantic mansion.

One of the things I encourage is for creative arts to play a part in that foundation. My daughter, Shonta, is a testimony of the excellent result you can have with creative arts being involved in that foundation. I’m so passionate about the creative arts and economic benefits that can be derived from that sector. That was one of the points I made when I had the opportunity to speak on Capitol Hill, last June, on the creative sector being a pillar for economic growth in the Caribbean.

I’ve always mentioned that the creative sector is not short of talent, but we are lacking the resources to make this a reality.

Turn to page XL►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XIII

XIV ◄◄◄ From page IV

Before beginning any interior decorating job, Maxi turns to God. He noted that he ensures that he puts his best effort forward, to ensure that any event he decorates for, turns out amazingly well. He works with the layout of a given space.

“You have to know where you can put what,” he said. “And it just comes naturally, I analyse the place [and] look at all these different things.” He praises God even more for the ability to

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

walk into an empty room and bring his vision for it to life.

One of Maxi’s most recent contracts involved décor for an event at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

He noted that over 350 guests were expected for the event.

He related that, when the interior decorating was completed two days before the party, the over 300 people present were excited about the décor. “And that’s where I get my joy and my inspiration from, to continue to give people an excellent job,” Maxi affirmed. He said, “If I take your job on, I am

One of Maxi’s Mashramani costume designs (All photos courtesy of Maxi K. Williams)

reliable and I will get the job done 100 per cent, to the best of my ability all the time,” and added, “And that’s how I believe my business has to run and that’s how I do my business and I see success out of it.”

Mashramani remains important to Maxi. Instead of waiting to be hired, Maxi took a different route and started up his own Mash band. He was ANSA McAl’s designer for a few years and, when the company ceased participating in the parade, it continued to support his Mash band. “For the past five or six years I’ve been one of the only designers, so far, that has their own Mash camp,” he related. He noted that he has already completed his preparations for this year’s Mashramani. All that is left is to work on the float and that will be done once the truck arrives a few days before Mashramani. “I have a small band that I would normally do comprised of about 50 persons,” he stated. He explained that the band sometimes gets bigger. ANSA McAl remains a stalwart sponsor, while Muneshwers Limited has also come onboard these last two years. “Come Mashramani, once I’m healthy and strong, I have to be there.”

This year’s band will reflect El Dorado – the story of the Amazon and the people of El Dorado, according to Maxi. He noted that he is currently working on creating costumes and outfits that are geared toward including more mature people.

“If you’re not interested in being in a band, we can still get involved by being cultural,” he said. “Get dressed up, do something on a t-shirt [or] fix up a hat and be a well dressed up spectator.” He further encouraged, “Showcase something, be a part of the celebrations, be proud.”

Maxi is working toward being the best in Guyana, the Caribbean and the world. “I want people to be able to contact me in other countries and to hire me to do their weddings,” he said. He related that he is working on being the best that he can be in this life. Lately, he has been making his own props.“Creating props makes your work look different and unique from anybody else,” Maxi pointed out. “My motto and goal in my work is transformation,” he stated. “My element of work must be transformation and quality.” He added, “I work every day to ensure that every opportunity is the best, so that I can be able to be recognised from that quality of work. And, at the end of it you will be successful at what you are doing.”

ocus F Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XV

on the Village

Life on Leguan Island

Some of the common houses that can be seen on the island

From left, APNU Councillor Derrick Singh, Assistant NDC Overseer Dulsie Singh, NDC Overseer Phadmoutee Oudit and Leguan Ranger Saheed Ayube

This week on Focus on the Village, we bring you stories from the island of Leguan, located in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara). Stories by Telesha Ramnarine and photos by Delano Williams.

THE picturesque island of Leguan on the Essequibo River is home to roughly 2,500 persons. As such, everybody knows everybody! People are generally warm, friendly and most hospitable to one another - even to visitors on the island! There are a whopping 36 villages on the island, although some are hardly populated. La Bagatelle and Maryville were touted to be the most populated villages, on what many people consider to be the front of the island. Canefield, to the east, is said to be the least populated village.

might have disagreements when it comes to elections time.

One of the major issues plaguing the island, is the migration of its young people after they would have completed their secondary education. Because the youths have very limited opportunities available to them on the island, many leave after school to further their education or seek employment. “Once they get caught up in the Georgetown situation, they don’t want to get back to the island,” Singh said.

Many of the business people in Leguan focus on selling alcohol, perhaps because such a business does well financially. But Singh believes that if such persons expand their business focus, some of the current problems facing the island may be reduced.

Fishermen at Blenheim Village

A common scene of animals being transported around the island

A horse cart selling greens from village to village

The primary mode of transportation on the island is the pedal cycle, but many persons also own motorcycles. A small group of people have vehicles; and there are taxis, buses, and horse-drawn carts that are up for hire.

Ironically, while the main religious persuasion on the island is Hinduism, there are 14 churches and one Kingdom Hall on the island, which represent more than double the number of mandirs (Hindu temples) there. There are also five mosques (Muslim places of worship) on the island. Leguan is a predominantly rice farming island, and almost every household has a fishing net (a net that is thrown out and immediately drawn in, rather than being set up and left). As such, it is difficult for families to go a day without having anything to eat.

“Everyone has their cast net; you can just jump in the trench and catch a couple of

fish or throw for shrimp. If there’s nothing in the pot, you just go in the back-dam and catch some fish or shrimp,” Saheed Ayube, a 30-year-old Leguan ranger expressed. He is quite comfortable on the island, but he told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is hoping for more employment opportunities to be opened up for youths his age, as jobs are hard to come by on the island.

“Life is good,” says Viren Chintamani, who is the Head of the Agricultural Department at the Leguan Secondary School. “You can make a living here with farming, fishing; it’s easy life. You can sleep peacefully on the island; it’s a good place to live. You can leave your door open and sleep at nights.”

Notwithstanding, Chintamani said there are a few mischief makers who might steal a fowl or some other minor item. Certain other

things are also popular on the island, such as two young lovers ‘getting away’ together.

APNU Councillor Derrick Singh, uttered similar sentiments when he noted that the island hardly has thieves. “Life is very peaceful on the island. You can sleep with your house open 24/7; you’d probably only have to worry about a dog or cat coming in your house. We don’t have stealing on the island; break and enter. Generally, life on Leguan is very, very comfortable; very nice. If you love the quiet life, Leguan is the place to be,” Singh expressed. The island is sorely in need of a mini excavator at the moment so as to aid drainage in the residential areas. A request for such an excavator had been put forward sometime now, but no response has been forthcoming.

LOSING YOUNG PEOPLE “Life is reasonably stable on the island.

Generally, people are very nice to each other,” Singh said, but even the best of friends

“Many business people only think about opening up rum shops; they don’t go further.

They look at it as the rum sells. So the young men who don’t work, or who work only in the rice fields during crop season; when the crop is out, they have nothing to do.”

In addition, the use of ganja is slowly creeping its way into the island. It has been thought that speedboat operators may need to look at having one drop off spot, after leaving Parika. Because persons ask to be dropped off at various areas on the island, it is hard for anyone to keep track of what they’re bringing to the island.

“So if you’re carrying the drugs, there’s no police check for you at these locations.

But if the speedboats come straight to the stelling where there’s a police officer, it would be easier to know who is bringing what. And the thing about the island is that if you’re a stranger, you’re easily picked out,” the councillor observed.

XVI

Transportation costs, times affect education in Leguan TEACHERS and students of the Leguan Secondary School are grateful for the initiative by the government, to provide free internet and Wi-Fi at the school that continues to boost their Information Technology Department.

Along with the island’s four nursery and four primary schools, the secondary school has a total of 138 students.

“This is a wonderful idea and we’re hoping that it can be implemented in the primary schools as well. It is very helpful to our computer lab,” head of the secondary school’s agricultural department, Viren Chintamani, told this publication.

The National Data Management Author-

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

The Leguan Secondary School

ity (NDMA) within the Ministry of Public Telecommunications provided the facilities at the school in April last year, in its drive to ensure that Guyanese have access to free internet.

In addition to the Wi-Fi being obtained at the school, two business persons have also arranged to provide internet service with signal from Parika and on the East Bank of Essequibo. The installation is done at a cost of about $40,000 and customers pay a monthly fee of $5,000.

Chintamani reported that the school has been doing well at the CSEC examinations “Sometimes we are second and third in the

region, just behind West Demerara or Zeeburg, so we are doing well,” Chintamani pointed out.

If access to transportation was not so challenging on the island, though, Chintamani feels that the students who finish their secondary education can be able to do more.

Transportation costs have been dubbed one of the heaviest expenses on the island, and for almost everything, residents would need to hire a ‘special.’

“For me personally, I can go and further my studies at the University of Guyana, if I know there will be a boat to bring me home back in the night, without having to pay a higher cost,” Chintamani expressed.

Currently, the ferry leaves Leguan at 06:00hrs for Parika and leaves Parika at 10:00hrs to return to Leguan. In the afternoon, the boat leaves Leguan at 14:00hrs or 15:00hrs for Parika, and leaves Parika for Leguan at 16:00hrs. If someone misses the ferry, the speedboat operators charge $500 a person. If the full number of persons for the boat Students of the Endeavour Primary is not achieved, then persons School directing traffic on the island would have to pay more.

More persons would pursue higher studies if transportation costs were not so high.

“When young people leave here, there’s no coming back. Let’s say you have 20 persons writing CSEC. Afterwards, you might find a mere five remaining on the island; the rest are gone. More cottage industries need to be created to keep the students,” Chintamani expressed.

“For the 15 teachers that are here, all of us are young; in our 30’s. and we still have a very far way to go. So an opportunity is not created here for another young person to come because we are all trained,” he added.

Headmaster of the Leguan Secondary School, Teekaram Persaud, travels from Wales, on the West Bank Demerara each day, and pays $3000 daily in transportation costs.

He is only hoping to be confronted with a job opportunity, so that life can become a bit easier on him.

Persaud has been in the education system for the past 21 years. He is also hoping that the relevant authorities would look into providing a house with basic facilities on the island for him.

Migration and the government’s housing drive have seen many people move to Tuschen and other areas along the West Coast.

Cricket is ‘de’ thing in Leguan RAIN in Leguan is not always welcomed by the residents, especially cricket fans who look forward to playing every Sunday on the various fields.

In fact, cricket was described as the major sport on the island by President of the Leguan Cricket Board (LCB) and Head of the Agriculture Department at the Secondary School, Viren Chintamani.

There are six functioning cricket teams on the island with an average of 30 members on each, which are all financially affiliated to the LCB. Two Over-40’s team are not functioning at the moment.

The island is also part of the Essequibo Cricket structure, where players can get to represent Essequibo and then further their careers with the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).

With the youngest player currently being 12 years old, the age range generally is from 16 to 30 years old. The more experienced men are used as team coaches and President of the Leguan Cricket Board, Viren Chintamani managers.

Some of the cricket players from Leguan

“When cricket is not being played, it’s boring on the island. There is no other activity, especially when the rain is falling. Everyone is indoors and just waiting for cricket,” Chintamani related.

Once the sun is out, the ball fields are packed every Sunday. “We’re trying to motivate young people and get them to move away from certain things, and we believe that cricket can have a posi-

tive impact on them. Everyone, from young to old, enjoys cricket on the island.”

The government has granted permission for the use of two more of its grounds for cricket.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XVII

Leguan Stelling hanging on by ‘God’s mercy’ Gov’t promises urgent action

THE Leguan Stelling is at the moment “standing on God’s mercy” with a section of it having to be cordoned off a few days ago. The contractor has since refused to disclose any information regarding the works, and residents are only hoping that such works will commence soon.

Last Monday, the low ramp on the stelling collapsed after two of the beams that support it dropped off completely. This meant

A team of Transport and Harbour Department engineers visited the island to assess the damages incurred.

“This matter is being treated with extreme urgency as materials are currently being sourced and repairs are expected to be completed within seven days. However, passengers are encouraged to use the stelling with caution as the engineers facilitate repairs to the broken piles on the low ramp. The Public

The low ramp has collapsed, which means that vehicles have to wait on the high tide before they can get on the ferry via the high ramp

Residents are concerned that since the contract was signed since last year for a new stelling, two test piles have only recently been driven

that vehicles cannot get on to the ferry, except via the high ramp.

The high ramp, though, can only be used when there is high tide, and hence this creates quite some confusion and inconvenience for residents.

The Public Infrastructure Ministry subsequently issued a statement in which it said that it taking appropriate steps to fix the said ramp.

Infrastructure Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused,” the statement said.

‘CAN’T REMEMBER’ The Pepperpot Magazine visited Kalan Maraj who received the contract for works on the stelling since last year. He walked away from the team when asked for the date that the contract was signed.

“I can’t remember that,” he said as he was leaving. He is claiming that although a contract was signed, there are still some formalities that have to be followed before the actual works can begin.

Maraj is also contending that he is still awaiting word from the Ministry of Infrastructure. “I don’t know if they’re waiting for something to happen before they do something about that stelling,” A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Councillor Derrick Singh told his publication, adding, “They installed two test piles but I don’t know when they’re going to start the actual works.”

The plan is not for the stelling to be repaired; but for a new one to be constructed.

“If you’re coming on a low tide, the first thought that would hit you when you look at it from below is that this is standing on God’s mercy. The piles are broken from the bottom

and swaying.”

Almost every day, huge trucks and other vehicles carrying animals traverse the stelling.

The boards are all loose and the sound coming from them as the vehicles pass over is horrifying.

“I don’t understand how the Tender Board issue contracts. If the engineer’s contract is $50, I think there should be a cut off of how low the contractor can go to get the work done. When you go past that mark, then you’re looking at a lot of incompetence,” Singh opined.

Although the engineer’s estimate was $452M, Maraj’s bid was around $412M, way below the estimate. “So I keep wondering, with that amount of money taken off the contract; if we would have the kind of work that we’re hoping for. I don’t know how these contracts are awarded.”

Strengthening Leguan’s seawall at Canefield ALMOST all of the roads on Leguan Island have been repaired, with the exception of those in two villages where overtopping frequently occurs.

A number of infrastructural works are also in progress at the moment. For instance, major works are being done to the seawall at Canefield Village to have it strengthened, and to reduce overtopping.

Mahase Gansham, a worker on site, who is employed

Massive works are ongoing at Canefield and other parts of Leguan at the moment

by the contractor Imran Badshaw, told this publication that the team is currently working to build back the seawall at Canefield.

“We’re working on a 200-metre road and putting back the seawall because the water runs over terribly,” Gansham said. The works were started about weeks ago, and are expected to finish in another two weeks. However, the period may have to be extended.

Mahase Gansham, a worker on site, who is employed by the contractor Imran Badshaw

Canefield Village frequently experiences overtopping

XVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Leguan Hospital serving dozens each week

The Leguan Cottage Hospital

THE Leguan Cottage Hospital sees 25 persons or more on a daily basis and some 40 to 45 patients on a clinic day.

What is more, the hospital has only one doctor working a 24/7 basis, along with six nurses.

General services are offered at the hospital, and emergency cases have to be

referred to the West Demerara Hospital. No x-ray or ultrasounds are done because the hospital has no labs.

A delivery room exists, but no deliveries can be done at the moment. The room is in a deplorable state and the ceiling, especially, is in urgent need of repairs.

The hospital stocks regular med-

ication like antibiotics, pain and pressure tablets, and has to make do with whatever drugs are sent there.

There is a doctor’s house in the same compound as the hospital, but it is in need of repairs. Authorities have said that another doctor will be posted there, once the repair works are done.

Problems arise for patients, though, when they are in need of urgent medical attention that is not available on the island. At such times, the patients must bear the cost of the transportation expenses, which essentially, puts them at the mercy of the speedboat operators who can charge as much as $13,000 to cross over to Parika.

The women of Nooten Zuil

By Shirley Thomas LOCATED on the East Coast Demerara, 18 miles away from Georgetown is the peaceful village of Nooten Zuil, huddled between Belfield to the west and Hope to the east.

Fanned by the gentle sea breeze, wafting across the Atlantic Sea coast, Nooten Zuil is known, not only for its serenity but for the peace-loving nature of its residents, constantly on the lookout for the safety of each other.

The Pepperpot Magazine on a recent visit to Nooten Zuil, was introduced to the village by a long-standing resident, Jean Tajroop, who said of the village: “It’s breezy and quiet;

cool during the day and biting cold at nights, to the extent that we have to put on sweaters.”

The community, which boasts an agricultural base and has just under 50 households, has a reputation for initially growing rice and rearing cattle throughout the years, but more recently there has been an emphasis on the growing of fruits and cash crops or kitchen garden farming. Kitchen gardening is done mostly by the females, while the men who are not otherwise self-employed, work outside of the community.

Tajroop, with a sense of pride and independence, told this publication that in the community the women grow fruits and vegetables to help pay their rates and taxes.

Parbattie Singh vending at her fish stand

Meanwhile, more evidence of the ingenuity of the women and the will to survive, was demonstrated in the story of Parbattie Singh, a mother of two who now cleans and sells various types of fish – snapper, shark, banga-mary and more, from her stand at the junction of Nooten Zuil and the East Coast highway.

Singh, who has been vending in fresh fish for the last year or so, says she buys wholesale quantities from fisherfolk at Hope Village.

She said that her husband previously worked with the crew, but business was slow and so she thought of bringing the service closer to the people and it worked well. Singh sells from snapper to butterfish, to banga-mary and it is getting bigger and better, she says.

Meanwhile, Tajroop, a mother of five, has been living in the village for just over 20 years. She has brought her children up successfully and now they have children of their own. A committed member of the Full Truth Tabernacle Church, she travels all the way to Mahaica to attend church services.

Meanwhile, residents say they have no trouble with praedial larceny involving stocks, fruits and the greens and vegetables they produce, since it is a quiet neighbourhood and people look out for each other. This is so, to the extent that on being visited by the Pepperpot Magazine there was evidence of pepper, cucumber and corrilla which had become ripe on some of the fences, until they are bursting on the vines and still not being picked by an intruder.

Nooten Zuil also has a reputation for having some of the best mechanical workshops, and spray painting and body works establishments, attracting clients from regions across the country.

Jean Jagroop. Nooten Zuil mother engaged in subsistence farming in Nooten Zuil. (Delano Williams photos)

The residents are however thankful for other essential services such as electricity, telephones and potable, water (being supplied by the Guyana Water Inc.) However, Tajroop sees the need for a community playfield, even if not a community centre as yet. She was amongst other villagers calling for a library and some safe place for their children and grandchildren to play. They are also calling for maintenance work to be done on the main road within the community which is in a poor state at this time.

“We will be thankful if our road can be repaired as soon as possible, making life comfortable for everyone,” the residents declared.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XIX

E S A FILES C T R U O C

Petition by couple for declaration of title dismissed by Judge

Appellate Court set aside ruling and ordered new trial IN 1998, Commissioner of Title Gerald Brooms dismissed a petition by Lashley Clifford Gomes and Joycelyn Carol Gomes for a declaration of title to land at First Avenue, Bartica, because he concluded that the vendor, Philip Innis, had no possessory interests to sell.

Dissatisfied with the ruling, the couple, (a husband and wife) appealed. The decision was upturned by the Guyana Court of Appeal.

However, Mr. and Ms. Gomes who had bought the possessory rights and interests of their vendor Philip Innis for $700,000 will have to face a new trial before they could lay claim to the property.

The Guyana Court of Appeal, comprising Chancellor of the Judiciary, Madam Desiree Bernard, and Justices of Appeal Mr. Nandram Kissoon and Mr. Ian Chang ruled that the Commissioner’s decision was perverse in the light of the evidence.

The Court of Appeal set aside the decision of the Commissioner of Title (or Land Court Judge) and ordered a new trial.

That court also ordered $25,000 costs for the appellants/ petitioners.

At the hearing of the appeal, the appellants were represented by Attorney-at-law, Mr. Neil Boston.

The facts of the case disclosed that the petitioners Lashley Clifford Gomes and Joycelyn, both of Lot 13 Sixth Avenue, Bartica, Essequibo, filed a petition on March 17, 1993 in the High Court seeking a Declaration of Title for Lot 58, First Avenue, Bartica.

This lot contains 0.263 of an acre and is shown on a plan

by Teeka Singh, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated October 26, 1992, on record in the Department of Lands and Surveys as plan No. 24208.

The petitioners, pursuant to an agreement of sale and purchase dated September 18, 1992, bought the possessory rights and interests of their vendor, Philip Innis for $700,000 and entered the property.

They paid a deposit of $60,000 to the vendor, and the balance was to be paid upon passing of transport.

The opposer to the petition was Mr. Michael Willock of 12 Whitwell House, Northwald Road, London, England, through his duly constituted attorney, Raymond Willison of Plaisance, East Coast Demerara.

Michael Willock was the son of Lydia Elizabeth Willock, nee Innis, who died intestate on May 14, 1991, in England.

She was the owner of the paid property, Lot 58, First Avenue, Bartica, under Transport No. 195 of April 21, 1979, and according to Philip Innis, an existing old house on the land in 1972 was owned “by me and sister Lydia E. Innis”.

But in the High Court, the Land Court judge said the issue was whether or not Philip acquired possessory right of over 12 years from 1972 to 1992, to (1) extinguish the legal title of Arsina Da Silva and of Lydia E. Innis (Transport No. 195 of 1979) and (2) override all possessory rights, if any, of Lydia E. Innis and all others. The Land Court judge had viewed as relevant facts the affidavit of Philip Innis who had said that he was 65 years old and had gone to live on property in 1972.

According to him there was a small house on the property which was owned by Arsina Da Silva.

Da Silva sold the small house to himself and Lydia Innis in 1972. Lydia Innis provided money to the purchase. She was living in England. He added, “I enlarged the building in 1972-1975; I built fence, septic tank, dug drains and planted crops, mangoes, five finger and coconut trees. All this planting began in 1973. From 1972 to present, I paid no rent to anyone for the land to Da Silva or anyone else.”

Turn to page XL►►►

By George Barclay

XX

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Treating senior citizens AS our life span increases, the exposure of aged individuals to routine dental will no doubt increase. This is of considerable importance, as people over the age of 50 not only have a large proportion of serious incapacitating and chronic non-communicable diseases, but also appear less able to tolerate various stresses and trauma inflicted

upon them.

I have no doubt in my mind that like myself, all dentists, especially those who do private practice, would agree that the thing they fear most in this profession is someone dying while undergoing treatment in their dental chair. Although dentists have been taught to dread the occurrence of either a

serious medical emergency or patient mortality during dental treatment, yet 10 per cent of all non-accidental deaths in the general population are sudden, unexpected, and frequently occur among a rather young age group.

Although not always appreciated as such, the practice of dentistry involves considerable psychologic and physiologic (physical ) stress to many patients. For instance, it has been recently demonstrated that as many as 40 per cent of patients subjected to local anaesthesia and multiple dental extractions, will have cardiac arrhythmias ( irregular heartbeats ). Obviously, the bodies of most individuals tolerate such insult very well. However, this is not always so and it poses a serious problem in patients with certain recognised diseases, the aged, and in persons taking certain types of medication.

Some form of cardiovascular ( heart and blood vessels) disease is found in a very large segment of the population with an increasing incidence in the older patient. In fact, various types of cardiovascular disorders represent the leading cause of death, thus making it by far the most important health problem in Guyana.

How is all this directly relevant to a classical visit to the dentist? This is how. Dental patients frequently are required to receive local anaesthesia prior to most regular procedures.

Every unit of local anaesthetic contains a substance whose purpose is, to ensure that the principal drug remains as long as possible in the site where the anaesthetic was deposited.

If this does not happen the numb effect would only last for a few minutes.

This substance called a vasoconstrictor is also capable of elevating the patient’s blood pressure. The sudden elevation of blood pressure can result in a stroke. The second highest cause of death by vascular (vessel) diseases is a stroke. Ischaemic heart disease, which includes myocardial infarction and angina pectoris are simply conditions in which the heart does not get sufficient blood to circulate between the cells of its muscular walls.

Although unanticipated myocardial infarction, collapse, and death are always a potential occurrence, the practicalities of day to day practice indicate that certain types of patients are especially sensitive to the stress of dental treatment.

These include individuals with congestive heart failure, angina pectoris and recent myocardial infarction. All these conditions come under the heading of ischaemic heart disease, the main cause of death from vascular disease.

Some major factors which make a patient a prospective candidate for death in the dental chair are physical inactivity (“white collar workers�), obesity ( excessive body fat), stress or aggression and inveterate smoking. These facilitate heart disease.

Patients who know they suffer from cardiovascular disease which includes high blood pressure or are on medication for any other illness should inform their dentist of these conditions before beginning treatment. Their life may literally depend on it.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XXI

Tips for a successful relationship/marriage the fights you have had- wasn’t it just you or your partner screaming the same thing over and over? People do not feel heard, as it is not common for the receiver to verbally say they

LAST week, an avid reader wrote in to discuss his marital issues with me. He said he has been married for seven years but they have been struggling for the past three, and therefore asked for my advice.

I want to start off by saying that I am not an expert on marriage. I’m not even married, but I have worked extensively with families and couples through addiction and can base my suggestions off of those experiences.

I AM about to get married myself, and so I dedicate this one to my fiancé F. Khan, with the intention of practising what I preach.

Marriage isn’t an exact science and its issues and interventions differ for everyone. However, there are some universal issues and solutions that can be applied to create, maintain or regain a healthy relationship and marriage.

I think the first thing to remember is that your marriage should be your number one priority. Many forget this during lengthy marriages or after having children.

Of course, I understand why children become a priority but the word priority has a plurality. If I had to list out an order of priorities, it would go like this: 1. Marriage. 2. Children. 3.

Other family members. 4. Work Not many people would agree but why would I say this?

Of course, this isn’t applicable to single parents but when two people are raising children, it is crucial to be doing this efficiently and healthily together. From what I have seen, it is near to impossible to raise children (the kind you would like, in the way you would like) in a toxic environment. Raising another human being is difficult but some people have an equal partner to do this with, meaning that relationship which is supposed to unburden the process should, therefore, be nurtured even more. Respect and cooperation are key. Also, keep in mind that children base the healthiness and acceptance of their own relationships based on what their parents modelled for them.

Acknowledge and accept that your partner’s needs changes over time. This is something very important that is often forgotten. Do you want the same things out of life that you did five years ago? Probably not so why would you want the same thing out of a relationship? For example, you may start out by wanting assurance of commitment which comes over time so therefore, your primary need may switch to something else. If you feel as though your partner isn’t fulfilling your current needs, you need to tell them what these are. People do not evolve the same and most importantly, they aren’t mind readers.

This brings me to a massive one; communication is absolute key. Have you ever thought about why people scream at each other? Most of the time, it isn’t out of anger but rather, simply, they do not feel heard and they want to. Think about

have received and acknowledged the information- which is really all we want.

Turn to page XXX►►►

XXII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

LEPROSY

ENDING DISCRIMINATION, STIGMA, PREJUDICE CONSUMER advocates worldwide have a special concern for persons who suffer from leprosy. Such concern is evoked not only by the terrible suffering which afflicts those infected by the disease but also because for centuries their human rights have been disregarded and they have been subjected to every type of discrimination. On the last Sunday of January when World Leprosy Day was observed worldwide, we joined with others to try to educate the public about the disease, so as to clear away the myths which have grown over it, so that the life of sufferers

could be more comfortable and they be treated with more understanding.

This year, 2019 the theme of World Leprosy Day is “Ending Discrimination, Stigma, Prejudice”. For centuries, indeed millennia, there was severe discrimination against sufferers.

It was believed until the 19th century that the disease was a curse from God and in some way, the sufferers were evil. They were therefore isolated and forced to live in leper colonies and every kind of humiliation was imposed on them. In Europe in the Middle Ages, for example, they had to have a ringing bell

attached to their bodies so that others could avoid them if they were moving about.

In addition to being a divine curse, it was believed that the disease was highly contagious and as such, people, even relatives, avoided sufferers. They were isolated and lonely and generally did not have enough to eat. The only persons who showed them any compassion were some nuns and monks who brought them food and ointments for their bodies. Buddhist monks were more caring and many devoted their lives to helping lepers. The disease disfigured the body with changes in the skin colour in various parts of the body, especially the face and hands and chest, and loss of the fingers and toes which fell away. The disease attacked the nerves and would often cause the spine to be warped and twisting the body. Often, the skin was covered with incurable sores. Sufferers would, therefore, appear to be grotesque.

It was not until the 19th century that the West discovered some treatments used in India and China. The main such treatment was chaulmoogra oil which came from Ayurvedic Medicine. These Asian treatments sometimes brought some relief and sometimes not but since there was no other treatment available, Asian treatments continued to be used until the 1940s.

Western scientists were researching into finding treatments and cures, but the first breakthrough came only in 1873, when Dr Gerhard Hansen of Norway discovered the causative agent of leprosy - Mycobacterium leprae. The effects of Dr Hansen’s discovery were so far-reaching that the disease came to be known as “Hansen’s Disease”. The term Hansen’s disease came to be widely used since the word “leper” encapsulated many prejudices. Dr Hansen’s discovery destroyed the myth that the disease was a curse from God. It was now realised that the disease was not contagious and by the 1940s three effective drugs were discovered and put into use, either separately or in combination. These drugs were Clofazimine, Rifampicin and Dapsone. Antibiotics were also effectively used in the early stages of the disease.

Today, it is widely known that leprosy or Hansen’s Disease could be cured and that it is not highly contagious. Prejudices against sufferers have largely disappeared but they survive as a strong underground current, and it is the feeling that there is something supernatural about the disease which causes many sufferers to consult `obeahmen’ first before medical doctors.

The theme of World Leprosy Day “Ending Discrimination, Stigma, Prejudice” is therefore still very relevant.

One may be infected with the disease without knowing it. One of the most common outward signs of the disease is the appearance of a patch on the skin which is slightly lighter than the colour of the rest of the body. Since Hansen’s Disease attack the nerves, that patch of skin would show no sensation if one is infected. The pinch test could be used whereby the patch of skin is pinched and then touched and if there could be no differentiation, then one may be infected.

In Guyana sufferers from the disease could obtain treatment at the Leprosy Control Clinic which is situated in the Palms compound, Brickdam, Georgetown. The Director of the Clinic is Dr. Heather Morris-Wilson who is supported by a competent team. Dr. Morris-Wilson has pointed out that though the disease could be controlled or cured, sufferers could very often be affected by grave psychiatric problems. In her own words “Persons affected with leprosy have been shown to have a higher prevalence of psychiatric problems, than the general population of patients with other diseases. Depression could reinforce feelings of social exclusion, interference with work and daily life, reduce social interaction and lead to further isolation, and in severe cases can even lead to suicide” Dr. Morris-Wilson and the Ministry of Public Health have been working in accordance with the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Leprosy Strategy 2016-2020, the operational elements being (1) Early case detection before disabilities occur with new emphasis being on child cases (2) Conducting campaigns in areas not covered by the Dermatology programme to target higher risk groups (3) Develop a national plan to ensure screening of all close contacts, especially household contacts (4) Incorporating specific interventions against stigma and discrimination due to leprosy. . .

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

‘The Business Street’ Slowly and quietly transforming into a more energetic place

Rishi Balbahadur-Singh, owner of Rishi’s Auto Repairs

By M Margaret Burke BUSINESS is not quite as usual in the village of Nooten Zuil for some of its dedicated and hardworking occupants.

The place was more known for its rice cultivation and farming of cash crops, but times continue to change.

Outside of that many of the young people continue to acquire an education, which helps them to seek employment outside of the village in the public and private sectors.

However, in the village today there is known as the ‘business street’, where many there are at least three businesses related to auto-machinery alone.

AUTO SPARES BUSINESSES At the corner of the business street, greeting villagers, as well as passersby, is the sign that introduces the Robby Auto Spares shop, which can be found a few buildings down in the street.

Owner of the spares shop, Robby Seeram is quite ably assisted by his father, Mr. Seeram, who himself is a businessman for many years. Mr. Seeram told the Pepperpot Magazine that he once owned a disco, that was located at the front of the road and which did very well as a business.

Turn to page XXXVII►►►

XXIII

XXIV

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XXV

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Reparations IF someone had told me that, before last week, that the reparations movement could be the greatest movement of the 21st century, I probably wouldn’t have an iota of belief in that. But now, I really believe this and all it took was some perspective.

One of the greatest Caribbean thinkers (at least in my opinion), Professor Sir Hilary Beckles gave a lecture in Guyana recently on “Historical Realities for redress: The adequacy of relinquishing reservations and pursuing reparations.”

Now Sir Beckles is the chairman of the CARICOM Reparations Commission (CRC) that was birthed in 2013. The body serves as a governing body to provide advice and coordinate the overall strategy, as well as national and regional activities to pursue reparations. The CARICOM action plan demands everything from a full and formal apology to monetary compensations to provisions that could help foster our social and economic development.

And reparations? Well, when you think of the word, think of repairing; it is the action of making amends for a wrong one, by providing payment or other assistance to those who have been wronged.Turning back the pages of history- the initial European exploration that led to indigenous genocide, enslavement and indentureship- you might have an inkling of what wrongs have to be made right.

During the 2017/2018 academic year, I was part of the first batch of CAPE History students to have studied the Caribbean Reparations movement. In fact, my Internal Assess-

The greatest movement of the 21st century

ment (IA) was based on this topic.

But that’s all good and well until you factor in that I was one of four students to study history, at this level, in my school. And what I can say without a shadow of a doubt is that many people do not know about the movement, and if they do know- they don’t seem to see the merits of it. This is also microcosmic of the wider lack of appreciation for our history, but that’s a rant for another time.

One of the many striking statements from the lecture was: “We are oftentimes caught at the crossroads of imaging things that we desire but we are trapped in the pragmatism of reality.”

You see, Sir Beckles was acknowledging that perhaps most Caribbean people believe that the region should just move and forget the atrocities of the past- forget our history. But as a people we ought to understand it’s more than just asking for handouts- it’s about pursuing social justice and growth while achieving economic growth.

The Caribbean is seen as part of the ‘developing world’. We’ve come to accept that and we have tried many different ways to develop ourselves. But consider the development of our former colonial masters- Britain, France, Spain and the Netherlands- were because of us. Our underdevelopment fueled their development.

On the more social side, how many of our ancestors have suffered on these systems of control? How much of our cultural heritage has been lost because our people were seen as inferior?

And if that’s in the past, why do we continue to find ourselves working overtime to build our region? Why do we still struggle with our cultural identity? We want to improve; we want each citizen to live better lives. We want to celebrate our culture and diversity. Yet, we do not want to pursue reparations? That doesn’t add up.

I believe in reparations wholeheartedly. I know for a fact that there are a myriad of issues in the Caribbean that stagnate our growth, and most (if not all) of them stem from what we faced from the colonial rulers. I just never imagined how great this movement could be.

Enslavement in the Caribbean took about 300 years before it was abolished. In 1807, the trans-Atlantic slave trade was abolished; in 1823, amelioration measures were enacted and by 1838, enslaved persons in the British Caribbean were freed. But decades later, in 1886, was the system of enslavement abolished in Cuba (part of the Spanish-speaking Caribbean).

Let’s say it took about 100 years to actually get through with wholly dismantling the system of enslavement. That excludes consideration for the racist systems that existed beyond enslavement, which, in some cases, have been perpetuated throughout the years.

Things take time. It will take time to organise ourselves and foster synergies. It will take time to show the previous colonial powers what they ought to give us back. And it will take time to make this a strong and great movement- maybe even the entire century. Sir Hilary Beckles said even if it takes 100 years, it has to happen.

But according to Sir Beckles, reparations is about ethics. And it is about social and economic growth- not one or the other, but both. It is also standing up as a point of human dignity.

“Reparations is not about standing on street corners and asking for handouts,” Sir Beckles said. “The reparations movement is the movement that will save humanity and the world.”

XXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Women on the rise The benefits of the Self Reliance and Success in Business Workshops the community… With that training, you’re more community-minded and… want to do things to see your community develop,” she said.

The rising entrepreneur developed a business plan that fits the specific needs of her community.

“This being a farming community, you find that over the years … a lot of fruit [and] vegetables come out from the community, but then when there is a [dip] in the market a lot of things just go [to] waste. So, we see this project has enabled [us] to … reduce that wastage and… have a longer shelf life for the products that come out from the farms. Our plan as a group is to do agro-processing… in the sense of non-traditional products.

That’s looking … at preserved fruits, pepper sauce, dried fine leaf thyme, jam… eddo flower, cassava flower, plantain flower, and dry fruit… as a snack,” she said.

While her business plan is still in the early stages, Ms. Nelson is not discouraged by small beginnings. She hopes that her business plan will influence villages all across Guyana. “It must be a project that… [can] stand out in Region Three, and our community benefitting and becoming self-sufficient through this project… job creation for persons within the community and through this project… it will [start] a ripple effect for other communities within Region Three and the country as a whole… The valuable lesson I learned is that you need to think big, start small, and act now… you can think big, but you don’t necessarily have to start big… You always start small and then you grow as you go along,” she said.

Ms. Nelson said that while it is good that women attend the Self-Reliance workshops, it is also important that they commit to the

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger

Managing Director of Interweave Solutions (Guyana) Incorporated, Mr. Wayne Barrow WOMEN account for a major cross-section of the population and the economic empowerment of a woman can be transformative for the society in which she lives.

Armed with business acumen learned while attending First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger’s Self Reliance and Success in Business Workshop, Ms. Claudette Nelson, a budding entrepreneur is a woman on the rise and taking her business and her

community with her. This is her story.

“I am the President of the Den Amstel Agro-processing Enterprise Project,” Ms. Nelson said. “I learned about the seminar from somebody working in the community, who was trying to get persons who were involved with business or who have some interest in community development. So, since I’ve done this workshop… it [has] helped me to be more involved within

President of the Den Amstel Agro-processing Enterprise Project, Ms. Claudette Nelson

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 the plans they make while participating. “I [would] like to encourage women that they should take part and even when they get the opportunity for the training, they should follow through with it because it better equips them… to run a successful business and also help them in their own personal development,” she said.

Expressing gratitude for the First Lady’s initiative, Ms. Nelson said, “I think, all in all, this training, this programme, by the First Lady is a great initiative I was able to benefit and I…was able to come and make a difference within my community.”

EMPOWERED WOMEN EMPOWER GUYANA The Self-Reliance and Success in Business Workshop is facilitated by Interweave Solutions (Guyana) Incorporated. Managing Director, Mr. Wayne Barrow, said that the workshop taps into its attendees’ seemingly hidden potential and that combination of potential and micro-enterprise knowledge e said, is worthy of every Guyanese.

“We’re able to identify their skill sets…

There are people who are shy. There are people who have been told throughout their whole lives that they will amount to nothing, but we ask… ‘What are you good at?’ ‘What do you like?’ ‘What makes you happy?’

These are the kinds of things that allow for dialogue… they teach themselves as a group.

They interact and the cross-fertilisation of ideas ensures that something escapes… This is not about poverty. This is about getting

Pigs on Ms. Nelson’s backyard farm happily greet visitors

people empowered. No matter what the colour of their skin or religious background; it’s all about ‘hand wash hand, mek hand come clean’. That’s essentially what this Self-Reliance programme [is]… pulling yourself up by the bootstraps,” he said.

Mr. Barrow also said that an investment in women is an investment in Guyana, as women are major contributors to the economy. “Women who control the finances are more effective spenders. The money stretches further… If your household is looking strong and successful and happy and your neighbour is following your pattern, then your community, therefore, becomes a more wholesome community. And if every community follows that example, then your nation becomes such a community…You invest in the women, you’re basically investing in the nation. They

are wise and they are committed, more so, it seems, than men,” he said.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH The First Lady praises the programme’s comprehensive approach to women’s empowerment as it encourages participants to make positive changes in their family lives and throughout their communities.

“The plus with this Self-Reliance and Success in Business Workshop is that it doesn’t only focus on the person as a business woman or man… but it helps the person say, ‘How am I functioning within my family and within my community?’ So, it’s seeing the person in a very holistic way and how they interact with the members of their family, with the members of their community and clubs… and how that impacts how they manage their

XXVII business… It looks at the person in total, rather than just the business person,” she said.

Lamenting the perceptible low self-esteem that she has found in women and girls across Guyana, Mrs. Granger is intentional about helping women recognise the true value of their contributions at home and in society.

“I think too often young girls in particular, in my experience, and some women, feel like they have to be defined by whoever is the male partner, or whoever, is the male authority figure in the house.

But it isn’t… as simple as that…I would hear a housewife say, ‘I don’t know how to do anything; I just mind the house.’ But I say you’re managing finances, you’re managing your household, your children, you’re counselling them, you’re cooking, you’re cleaning, you’re washing, you’re an economist because you’re figuring out how you’re spending your money so that you can put food on the table,” she said.

The First Lady has one message for the women of Guyana. “My message to women is you can do it. You can become financially independent, but you have to train yourselves and develop confidence in yourselves. And this is why I have the workshops,” she said.

The Office of the First Lady and the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Social Protection and other government agencies and organs, continue to ensure that women like Claudette Nelson, have the training and community support necessary to build microenterprises that boost Guyana’s growing economy.

XXVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Seamus Heaney’s Translation of ‘Beowulf’

“Beowulf, translated by Seamus Heaney, W.W. Norton and Company, 2001”

EVERY reader has a certain selection of famous, well-regarded, critically-acclaimed, enduring works of literature that the readers knows he/she must at least attempt to read – even if only for the very superficial reason of reading, to be among the rare handful of human beings who have actually finished the iconic work of literature in question. I, for example, know that I should actually read Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre,” but alas, I can never seem to bring myself to complete it.

However, I do think that I am making progress when it comes to removing famous literature from the shelf, whilst simultaneously putting away all of my reasons for not reading any of these particular books, reasons which may include everything from me not enjoying early Victorian works, to me wanting to read works written by contemporary writers of colour. The reasons vary, but ultimately, they are abandoned when I do get it into my mind to sit down with one of these books on those rare occasions.

Sometimes, I am compelled to read something for purely utilitarian or economic or social reasons. A good example of this, can be first seen when I took it upon myself to read “Beowulf,” something I had known of for a very long time but continuously kept putting away until I had to teach analysis of the poem to my high school students and, therefore, I was compelled to read it in order to properly prep myself to be able to teach them. The situation, however, was not as bad as I expected. What could have been a scenario where I was forced to read a book I disliked turned out to be one where I found myself reading a book I thought I would dislike, but instead it was actually a book that I found myself enjoying very much.

Turn to page XXXVIII►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XXIX

XXX ◄◄◄ From page XXI

Common example – you: “you do not help me with this or this and today, I had to do this on my own.” Typical response“but you do not help me with this and this and yesterday you did that”. What’s the problem there? The message hadn’t seemed to be heard. A better response would be “Yes, today I didn’t help and I should try more….however (if absolutely necessary). This would not result in a screaming match because the message was heard and accepted. We have two ears and one mouth. Simple math tells you which you should use more.

Don’t keep a tally of the mistakes. People often forget that their partner is supposed to be there to help. However, sometimes they don’t but it doesn’t mean it’s intentional. Reminding people of past mistakes does not allow them to grow or even want to.

You have to be tolerant, accepting and forgiving.

Love your partner for their strength, independence and their backbone. It’s tough to admit as its challenging to deal with, but everyone likes to be with people who stand up for themselves. However, a little contradictory but make sure that backbone can bend as it is not always possible to get your way;

compromise goes a long way as something I often hear “pride comes before a fall”.

Most couples would say one of the biggest stressors on a marriage is financial issues. There is only one solution to thisboth partners need to decide what their priorities are and be financially responsible while attempting to achieve those goals.

Stay fairly independent, as love nor marriage means possession. That person being yours does not mean they are “yours”. Every time you enforce a ‘rule’, you are reinforcing your own insecurity. For example, every time you disallow or guilt your partner into not going somewhere or to constantly spend time with you, the insecurity remains as deep down, you know that’s not what they truly wanted… and then you get upset that they look upset or distant. Do you know when true security and peace come? When they have freedom of choice and they choose you. Absolutely, everyone needs personal time which is in no way a reflection of how they feel about you or the relationship.

I read somewhere that three “A”s ruin marriages- Affairs, Addictions, and excessive Anger. These speak for itself in how their presence can put the relationship to the ultimate test. Just keep in mind, that research on affairs show that most people

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 engage in them because they are emotionally dissatisfied, not sexually. When people do not feel appreciated, they are vulnerable to those who make them feel just that.

Remember that trust is built when it is shown. Trust comes with full honesty and disclosure but it takes two people. Believe the annoying fact that honesty is a privilege. And no one has to be honest with you. They simply choose to or not and that largely depends on how well you receive the information.

If you don’t handle the truth well, how or why would you expect it? Always make sure your reaction is appropriate to the situation.

Be intimate as often as you can. This includes sex, yes, but it’s definitely not limited to it. Intimacy happens in so many different ways. I think true intimacy is in the everyday, mundane things. Forget special events or anniversaries, intimacy lies in the everyday ‘I love you’, taking time to listen about their day, waiting for them to watch your favourite show or making their favourite breakfast for no reason at all. It also couldn’t hurt to have an activity or hobby that you both like to do together. The reality is sex does decrease over time and what’s left is companionship which means you enjoy each other’s company. There should be multiple things you enjoy doing together.

Take care of your appearance. Attraction is very important in a relationship and there isn’t anything wrong with acknowledging or accepting that. Both partners should be living a healthy lifestyle- not just to look good but to feel good. Of course, no one can look good all the time but a little effort has never once hurt anyone. And people, if you want your partner to keep trying to look good, compliment them every time they try to make the effort.

Keep some things a mystery. For example, bathroom time should definitely be personal time.

Drop any previous issues or baggage that you may have.

The person you are with now is not (and will never be) the person you were with before. It’s unfair to transfer insecurities or doubts from a previous relationship on to a new one.

Have a weekly date night. This may sound trivial but you have no idea how important this is. I don’t believe when people say they do not have one night a week to dedicate to their partner. This doesn’t have to take up a full day or tons of money.

It’s just time where you tune everything and everyone else out and focus on your partner and their needs- quality time.

Divide up tasks and chores understanding that there are no gender-specific chores. When people lash out, it could simply mean they are overwhelmed. If you help each other out- with house chores, parental chores, work chores – life would be much easier and smoother for both partners….. this can work until your children are old enough, then just get them to do it.

Shower them with compliments when they deserve it (or sometimes even when they don’t). When someone is openly acknowledged and appreciated for something, they are more likely to repeat it.

I saved to the most important one for last - watch your words. We have a habit of being cruel to our partners because we feel we can get away with it. I want to say don’t say anything you wouldn’t want to hear but that’s not helpful because everyone reacts to words differently. If you are with your partner long enough, you know exactly what words will hurt and they are not to be used as weapons.

Never use absolute language. Many of us have a bad habit of overgeneralising in arguments which makes us wrong, even when we are right. For example, if you say to your partner “you ALWAYS do this” or “you NEVER do that.” That’s not inviting reconciliation, that’s a full-fledged attack that will bring about nothing but defensiveness; be specific to situations in your disagreements and point making.

A little tip- never discuss sensitive topics in public or when you’re tired, hungry or overly stressed. Honestly, most arguments can be avoided by simply wording things differently.

For example, saying “I hope we can do this later” rather than “I don’t have time right now”.

People will always have expectations and hopes of who they want their partner to be. However, you can’t let that overshadow who they are. Things will improve if you nurture your relationship and know that not every insult was intended.

There’s a famous analogy of “The Marriage Box” which discusses the misconception of people believing that marriage is a box filled with all the things they’ve hoped for - love, passion, commitment etc. However, people forget that you can only take out of a box what you have already put in. This means that at the beginning of the marriage, the box is actually empty.

Love, intimacy, friendship and loyalty - the things that people look for are not in marriage, they happen within the people in the marriage. So constantly fill up that box so you can take out when necessary.

Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs!

Always!

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Energetic performances at Region Two Dramatic Poetry and Calypso competition MUCH energy and vigour were displayed last Monday by children from various schools in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) as the Department of Education hosted its Children’s Dramatic Poetry and Calypso Competitions.

Hundreds of children and teachers flocked the Anna Regina Community Centre ground to witness the spectacular display put forward in the various competitions.

The programme commenced with brief opening remarks from the Regional Executive Officer Denis Jaikarran, who

A student from Mainstay Lake Primary performing

commended the efforts of the department for the hosting of the activity. Jaikarran said the children’s competitions are important in celebrating Mashramani in the region. He, however, told all the participants that they were all winners.

Many schools incorporated their message with the discovery of oil, in keeping with the theme “Rediscovering El Dorado”. Calls were made for persons to live in cohesion, love and unity. In various calypso pieces, they sent messages for the citizens in Guyana to live in peace. Emphasis was also placed on messages for drivers to stop speeding on the road.

The children were dressed in brightly coloured clothing depicting various Mashramani messages.

Participating in the Dramatic Competition this year, in the 5-7 Category was Huist T’Dieren Primary and Mainstay Lake Primary. In the 8-10 Category, eight primary schools participated namely Suddie, Mainstay Lake, Huist T’Dieren, Hampton Court, Taymouth Manor and C. V. Nunes, Fisher Primary and Aurora.

Turn to page XXXIX►►►

XXXI

XXXII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page VI

The ‘LP Doobay and Rajiv Doobay Rice Milling Complex

Mr. Doobay taught his children to work hard from a very tender age. “Me and my brothers can do anything; we can break and make anything. Everything in this rice mill I built myself. Even some of the machinery I built myself,” Coachie said.

Coachie and some of his siblings went to school in Georgetown but during the holidays, they would return to the island and help out with the business.

Reflecting on his father, Coachie said: “He was a person always determined to get things done, and he never gave up.”

And it is this kind of attitude that helped Coachie to continue working on the business, even though things have gotten very hard on him.

“When I started 20 years ago, things were so good. For the first 10 years, it was extremely good and you could have made a profit. But now, you’re working like a slave and making nothing. The overhead expenses are too much. Right now, we are looking at all corners to see where we can cut costs.

If we have an oversized motor here, we take it out and try to put the size that is needed to reduce the amount of current we use,”Coachie expressed.

He said that he teaches himself many things and picks up skills as he goes along with the business. “If I don’t do work myself, I don’t know how I would keep surviving because the costs are killing. We built everything locally right here,” he said.

Coachie produces ‘Dewani’ and about five other varieties of the long grain rice. “The Dewani rice is a special rice; it boils faster. The other variety doesn’t boil so quickly; doesn’t paste up,” he said.

He supplies to various supermarkets on the West Coast Demerara and also has some customers in the neighbouring Wakenaam Island. “It’s me alone here, so I can’t spread myself as much. We used to supply rice to Georgetown, but it’s hard for me to do everything.”

Coachie recalled that in times past, there were employees who would put themselves out and work to build the business.

“Today, workers are just working for the money. There is no interest. If I’m not at home, no production goes on, so I can’t spread myself out too far. In addition, numerous persons who owe money are not coming forward to pay.

Coachie would love if something can be done about fuel prices at the moment. “It’s killing us and perhaps government can look at lowering the taxes on fuel or give concessions to rice farmers or millers; some form of duty free concession for diesel. At least give us a cutoff point, be it 10,000 gallons or whatever, after which you buy at the regular gas stations.”

Continuing to reflect on the days when he just started, Coachie said: “We used to pay like $5,000 for a drum of diesel and when you check from the price that you buy paddy, to the price that you sell rice, we have that same margin now.

But then, we paid $5000 for a drum; now we paying $55,000 for a drum. When we used to buy a pair of screens for the mill, we used to pay less than $1,000. Now, we are paying $15,000. So everything went up; even a simple elevator bolt and lubricants.”

In 2015, when Guyana lost the Venezuelan market, Coachie was especially affected. He said he was left stuck with 21,000 bags of paddy. “So you’re talking about more than $20 million that went down the drain there. Those things can nail you. We had to mill the rice and sell it cheaper than what we bought the paddy for,” he said.

According to Coachie, a number of problems can be solved for him and other rice farmers if the overhead costs are reduced.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

World Wetlands Day 2019

IF you are living on the coast, chances are you are living on a wetland which has been reclaimed. This is not to say, wetlands cannot be found in all administration regions of Guyana because depending on where you are, you may be exposed to various types of wetlands. Important to note is that, wetlands are not waste lands, they have great value. Wetlands can be defined as transition zones between aquatic (water) and terrestrial (land) ecosystems. These areas are significant since they provide countless natural services, which include the important role they play in the battle against climate change.

However, while they are our natural weapons to combat this global threat, they are also vulnerable to it. World Wetlands Day is observed every year on February 02 to spread awareness about wetlands. This year, the theme for the day is “Wetlands and Climate Change.”

Turn to page XXXIV►►►

XXXIII

XXXIV

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXXIII

WETLANDS-A NATURAL REMEDY FOR CLIMATE CHANGE There are different types of wetlands, all of which have characteristics that help them to combat the effects of climate change. Wetlands exist as marshes, mangroves, floodplains, lakes, swamps and mudflat. Wetlands provide both environmental and socio-economic benefits. Some of these include: -Protection of the coastline; -Prevention of natural disasters; -Purification of water; -Provision of habitat for many species of organisms; -Provision of resources to encourage agricultural activities e.g. fishing, apiculture In addition, wetlands are important for the reduction of climate change impacts since they rapidly absorb large quantities of carbon dioxide. For instance, mangroves store 50 times more carbon than tropical forests. Additionally, mangrove forests are also used as adaptation mechanisms by protecting shorelines from sea-level rise.

CLIMATE CHANGE-A THREAT TO WETLANDS Wetlands provide a natural response to climate change impacts. At the same time, however, they are vulnerable ecosystems. For instance, with increases in global temperatures, sea-level rise and extreme weather pattern are resulting in the degradation of wetland ecosystems. With the increase in average global temperatures, it has led to the loss of many habitats resulting in extinction of many species. In addition, degradation to wetlands leads to desertification, making it impossible to use the land for agriculture. It was recorded that since 1970, we have seen a loss of 35 per cent of the world’s wetlands.

MEASURES TAKEN TO PROTECT WETLANDS The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands was first held in Iran in 1971. It is the main initiative taken to manage the use of wetlands.

Through this convention, an inter-governmental agreement was drafted which provides the structure for countries to be guided on the sustainable use and conservation of wetlands.

With the ratification of 170 countries, there are currently 2,339 Ramsar Sites around the world which are noted as Wetland of International Importance and are protected under the Treaty.

Guyana has not signed on to the Convention. However, measures are in place to manage and conserve wetlands in Guyana. One of the main focus areas is the North Rupununi, a unique ecosystem that influences Guyana’s rich biodiversity, particularly aquatic organisms. National actions are also taken to protect mangroves which are the natural guardians of our coast. You can play a role in Wetlands Conservation If we do not start recognising the importance of wetlands and conduct more researches to examine how vulnerable they are, all the wonderful services and benefits they provide will eventually disappear. Since wetlands provide numerous benefits, citizens can help in clean-up efforts, restoration and conservation of these ecosystems. In addition, it is advised that proper studies be done before reclaiming wetlands for developmental activities.. World Wetlands Day allows for us to reflect on the many services these ecosystems provide, especially as we continue to battle against climate change. In addition, World Wetlands Day calls for global awareness and education on these valuable areas.

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.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

An appreciation of the teaching profession in Guyana ‘TEACHING is the profession that creates another profession’ is perhaps the most popular quote that we hear around Teacher’s Day. Now, Teacher’s Day is in September and to think that we only seek to recognise them on this day is not exactly the right thing to do. In my life, I have many teachers not only from school but the people I have encountered. My parents, friends, acquaintances, relatives have all helped me one way or another to learn new concepts and better understand old ones.

Surrounding the news lately, a lot has been going on with schools in Guyana and I thought this piece would be necessary. The teaching profession originally sought out to ‘monitor’ children by teaching them necessary and basic education using a standard system. I wouldn’t say the system today is complex but rather is an upgrade to what previously obtained. Teachers now try to teach in a manner that accommodates most learning needs of students. An argument is placed around the fact that teachers are not responsible for any other needs apart from education. If children are expected to be with teachers for at least eight hours a day, parents should be able to trust the teacher to be a responsible and mature adult. ‘What a teacher is, is more important than what he/ she teaches.’

From Miss Shaundel Phillips at New Amsterdam Multilateral, to Miss Anita at Port Mourant Primary School and Miss Zalimoon at the Rose Hall Town Nursery School, teachers have helped to shape the character, mindset and skills that I currently have. The most impactful teachers were the ones who taught me academics through the eyes of practical real-life scenarios. I was more attentive in a class if I could’ve related to examples, if the teaching methods appealed to my senses. I do believe that not everyone is ‘fit’ to be a teacher and it should be a profession, like any other profession that must be taken seriously; seriously to the extent of recognising that they have the ability to make or break the next generation.

In my opinion, students fresh out of high school should not automatically become teachers. It’s a great way to practice your training by teaching, however, students are not ‘guinea pigs’.

The highest levels of schools would not have been as successful without teachers. We stress that education is the key to success but fail to acknowledge those who actually aid in the service of education (better salaries, recognition of hard work, etc.) While students have the ability to retain information and learn on their own, they still need proper guidance.

There may be teachers we may not get along with, perhaps some that we always disagree with. I had those experiences as well. However, it took at least one teacher to believe in me and that was the greatest gift one can ask for. I mean it with confidence, take a look at where I am today and it was mostly because of the cooperation between my parents and teachers.

Both parties should co-relate for the child’s best interest.

Hence, it is also important for parents to attend general PTA meetings and class meetings so both teacher and parent can have discussions about the child’s well-being.

Here’s a quote I found that I thought was perfect to end off today’s piece: “I used to think good teachers inspire you. Now I think I had it wrong. Good teachers inspire you; great teachers show you how to inspire yourself every day of your life. They don’t show you their magic.

They show you how to make magic of your own.”

XXXV

XXXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Rihanna Suing Dad for Using Fenty Brand Name

Rihanna (left) has filed suit against her father, Ronald Fenty (right), who uses the Fenty name in his talent and production company. ( Caribbean 360 photo)

CALIFORNIA, United States – Barbadian-born pop star Rihanna is suing her father over the use of the Fenty name in his business venture, arguing that he has misled the public and damaged her brand .

The 30-year-old singer’s dad, Ronald Fenty, has a talent and production company called Fenty Entertainment, which he says is dedicated to “developing original television programmes, motion pictures, live concerts, and record producing as well as talent”.

But according to the legal filings, the ‘What’s my Name?’ singer, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, has “absolutely no affiliation” with that company, which was founded in 2017.

In a federal lawsuit filed in Los Angeles, California yesterday, Rihanna alleges that her father and another man “have egregiously and fraudulently misrepresented to third parties and the public that their company . . . is affiliated with Rihanna, and has the authority to act on her behalf”.

She has used the Fenty name for her cosmetics line and other businesses since 2012.

The lawsuit further alleges that Fenty Entertainment attempted to book a 15-date Rihanna tour in South America, and concerts in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, without her permission.

Rihanna is seeking an injunction to stop her father using the Fenty name, as well as unspecified damages.

(Caribbean 360)

Machel Removes “Self”, Praises Others As He Unleashes G.O.A.T. He promises that this year’s Machel Monday event will be the greatest of all time, much like the music he’s unleashed on his brand new 20 track compilation, aptly entitled, GOAT. Machel Montano has evolved. His journey to this point, has undoubtedly led him along a path of self realisation and contemplative analysis of the spiritual realm.

This year, as Montano released his 44th album at the age of 45, he made it a point of connecting the dots in an effort to truly globalise the sound of Soca- the genre he said, has fed his kids.

Launching the album at The Residence lounge and bar at One Woodbrook Place on Thursday night, Montano, swamped by fans, the media and friends like Nadia Batson, Farmer Nappy, DLoxx, M1, St. Lucia’s Motto, SuperBlue, Skinny Fabulous of St. Vincent and Chutney soca artist, KI, among others, he explained that collaborations are what’s needed to take Soca music forward at this time.

The HD band boss praised the producers and songwriters who’ve worked alongside him, among them, Motto, Skinny Fabulous, Travis World, Jamesy P and Jovan James, for their dedication to the art form and their involvement in all that he has brought forward in recent time.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXIII

A worker doing some body work on a car in the Rishi’s Auto Repairs workshop

“I sold a lot of things out there, which included a variety of cooked and baked foods. I also had a lot of patrons coming to my place of business daily – people passing through going to other businesses; also people from right here in the village.

Unfortunately since the closure of that business I have been trying to do the same on the same premises with Robby’s Auto Spares, but it has not brought the same success,” he indicated.

Meanwhile, Nicky’s mechanic shop, situated right next door to Robby’s business place was also found to be very busy getting the work done. However, while workers were willing to show what they were doing, the owner was not available since he had gone out on business matters.

RISHI’S AUTO REPAIRS Rishi Balbahadur-Singh, 37, a husband and father said that he was sent to learn body work and repair trade by his father, who is now overseas.

“My father was a successful farmer who worked hard in the fields and always wanted his children to be successful; so he sent him to learn the trade from other businesses of a similar nature. I went to some places and learnt to do a number of things on the job. In the end, I felt confident to open my own business and start working on my own,” he stated.

According to Singh he is now in the auto business on his own for over five years in the business and is continuing to get better day by day, even as he has been doing a lot of work on all sorts of vehicles for different businesses.

CASH CROP AND RICE CULTIVATION Even as some of the businesses are becoming more formalised in the village, many women and men continue to do what they know best – farm in their yards, on sides of dams and in some cases at the back of the villages. In the latter case, rice cultivation is mostly done in the back of the villages, even though some amount of cash crop farming is also done there.

One farmer, Mr Ramdat explained that farming is an established and known way of life in the village; he noted that many people made their living off farming and thus created a foundation for their children to follow. Therefore, farming he said, will always be a part of the culture within this small, but quiet village of people who are unassuming, but sage in their doings.

Another resident, Marilyn Bharrat concluded, “The village is nice, the people are nice and we are all one big family. I feel very glad to be a part of this community, where my grandparents, parents, me and my children were also born…I am very thankful for my neighbours and friends all over this wonderful village.”

XXXVII

XXXVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXVIII

The first thing that I found significant about “Beowulf” was the fact that the author is unknown. I had long assumed that the epic poem had been written by someone held in high esteem, some great writer that the literary world has known and recognised for his/her greatness for centuries. However, even though the version of the text I read was translated from the Old English by Nobel Prize Laureate, Seamus Heaney, the true author of the poem has never been actually identified. I thought it interesting that a writer’s work can occupy such an important space in world history and world literature, while the writer him/herself dies and disappears into the unknown as his/her writings, like a living thing, continues to exist and thrive.

“Beowulf” as a poem chronicling the rise and fall of an epic hero, reminded me of other important epic poems found in world literature. The example that immediately comes to mind is the “Mahabharata” which is the Hindu epic, coming out of India, that, like “Beowulf” also is a tale of warrior and kings and monsters. Reading “Beowulf” made me realise that there is much value to these long, old poems – the “Mahabharata,” for example was memorised and passed down orally for many centuries because of its importance to Hinduism – which means that in order to truly recognise literature that does not only emerge from Europe where they were written by white men, we must reevaluate our entire notion of ‘good literature’ and include works that come from nonwhite, non-European societies, or we run the risk of constantly viewing only that kind of literature as the best kind of literature and, therefore, always regarding those as the classics, when there is existing work that is as strong or stronger than those that have emerged from Europe. In essence, I feel like there is no valid reason for why non-European works (such as the “Mahabharata”) cannot be regarded as beautiful, as finely written, as worthy of study and as iconic and classical as European work (such as “Beowulf”).

Something that I really got to appreciate about “Beowulf” while reading it, is the myriad of elements that it presents to us about the society in which it was written. It was a reminder of the way in which literature not only shapes our society but represents it. The pervasiveness of religion in the poem, from the way the horrid monster, Grendel, and his evil mother are connected to Cain and hell, as well as the constant allusions to God and all he has done for the Geats (the central people of the text) clearly indicate that whatever society the poem was written in clearly focused a lot of attention to the doctrine, and that Christianity and/or Judaism were important elements of the society, something that is also expressed in the constant, repeated thematic expressions of good and evil in the poem.

It is also hard to ignore the patriarchal setup of the writer’s environment as well, which also manages to make its way into the poem – as seen in the ways the women, including the noblewomen, are relegated to miniscule or empty roles that sometimes do not even have names.

In retrospect, while I did enjoy reading “Beowulf” and I did appreciate that there was much more to the story than what was portrayed in the film adaptation from the mid-2000s, the most valuable thing I got, was a lesson in how much a text takes on the life of the writer and the environment in which the writer lives. A second lesson has to do with regarding non-European literature as worthy and as good as European literature. A third lesson gained from giving in and finally reading “Beowulf,” is that we all need to give the old classics a chance, to find and unearth them, no matter how far back on the book-shelf they may be stacked and hidden from view.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXXI

A child performing during the Region Two Dramatic Poetry and Calypso competition

In the 11-13 Category, seven schools participated namely Aurora Secondary, Mainstay Lake Primary, Hampton Court Primary, Capoey Primary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Sparta Primary and Taymouth Manor Primary.

In the 14-17 Category, six Secondary schools participated including Johanna Cecilia, Anna Regina Secondary, 8th May, Aurora, Cotton Field and Charity Secondary.

Meanwhile, in the Calypso 5-7 Category three schools participated namely Tapakuma Lake Primary, Charity Primary and Mainstay Lake Primary. In the Calypso 8-10 Category, Tapakuma Lake Primary, Mainstay Lake and Aurora Primary took part.

The judges for the competition were Deodath Singh, Desiree Charles, Lavern George and Gerry Etkinson.

The competitions were held under the Mash Theme “Celebrate Mash 49 with victory in mind - Rediscovering El Dorado”.

A colourful display

XXXIX

XL

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XIX

Among other things the Land Court judge said he had found from proper inference from the evidence that the root of Philip Innis factual occupation was conditioned upon a family arrangement where a place was provided for a mother, a brother and a sister-in-law. And after the death of the mother and the sister (the provider), Philip Innis unscrupulously formed the intention to possess the property and carried out acts of possession, as for example, the sale to Braithwaite and the Gomes’.

As a consequence, Commissioner of Title Brooms dismissed the petition on the ground that Philip Innis had no possessory interests to sell.

The judgement of the Appellate Court was delivered by the Chancellor.

Among other things, the judgment agreed with the arguments by counsel for the appellants, that the decision of the Commissioner of Title was erroneous in law.

It was noted that the Commissioner of Title finding that Philip Innis did not acquire a possessory title to Lot 58 First Avenue, Bartica, was perverse in the light of the evidence led

by Philip Innis, Lashley Gomes and Joycelyn Gomes, Arthur Rhodus and Horace Shurland.

The appellants had also argued that the Commissioner of Title misdirected himself on the law relating to adverse possession and that he erred when he found that the most of Philip Innis factual occupation was conditioned upon a family arrangement where a place was provided for a mother, a brother and a sister-in-law.

It was said too that the Commissioner of Title finding that Philip Innis unscrupulously formed the intention to possess the property and carried out acts of possession after the death of the mother and sister-in-law (provider) was perverse) for the following reasons: (a) there was no evidence on which the trial judge could have so found, (b) the inference drawn by the Commissioner was erroneous and was not based on evidence before the Court.

The judgment of the Commissioner of Title (land Court judge) was set aside and a new trial was ordered.

The Appellants were given $25,000 costs. ◄◄◄ From page XII

I had a very relaxing evening in the Eucalyptus Garden at the Theatre Guild. It was a breathtaking atmosphere in the breezy garden with a glass of Moscato and great conversations. Creole Rock and Buxton Fusion with Gavin Mendonca; Michael Smith and Marlon Adams set the tone for the evening. I really enjoyed the band Collage with an amazing bunch of young people. I sat there thinking if we had more opportunities for this high level of talent. It always makes me sad when I think that we don’t have a ministry of culture anymore,and a department of culture that is doing very little.

I’m tired of constantly having to reassure the young creative that things will get better, and although I’m an optimist, my hope is dwindling. I describe Fashion Week as my third child, which probably cost me more resources than my two daughters combined, but I have no regrets. Someone who knew the behind the scenes, once asked me if I had a chance to do it all over if I would have invested in Guyana Fashion Week, and without hesitation, I said yes because adding value to lives is priceless.

I have a feeling that I will not live to see the full potential of our beloved Guyana, but, I’m trusting my grandson, Jaidyn, will experience it. I’m blessed to have a great imagination, so I can vividly see the incredible painting that can be ranked with any paintings from Leonardo Da Vinci or Pablo Picasso. I will continue to do what I can and I encourage people to do the same as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XLI

XLII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XLIII

XLIV

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XLV

XLVI

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XLVII

XLVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

XLIX

L

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

English

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Your progress in study depends also upon the display in your own study area at home.

What do you have displayed in your regular study space? What is the purpose of your display? Does it celebrate your study progress; present an attractive environment; show instructional purpose? What is it that you or even your household do to sustain your interest? Have you ever compared it to another study partners’ space?

These factors also boost study progress.

Be wise.

Love you

PERSONAL WRITING Dialogue Improve your ability to analyse your own writing. Read what your write and honestly note what aspects need attention. Endeavour to fix them urgently.

Important to note: The use of dialogue helps make writing more interesting by building up character, setting, and conflict in a story. Dialogue use is easily managed once you are familiar with the character you’re building. Dialogue punctuation is mostly dictated by why, how, what and when you want your character to speak coupled with adherence to dialogue conventions.

Should punctuation of dialogue be one aspect of your concern, take a stand and believe that its challenge is surmountable.

Begin now by a show of active interest in the

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

short passage below. Note, in the company of a study partner, why, To keep my hands from picking what, when and how its dialogue is used. and stealing, and my tongue from The general looked over at the marble clock on the mantel- evil-speaking, lying, and slandering.

PRAYER BOOK (1662) piece – the gift of the 91st Infantry on the occasion of their colonel’s promotion – and reached a decision. she went out without gloves.

“We have ten minutes,” he 5. The outdoor stage lighting was brilliant said. “Let us go for a walk.”

They went into the shattered streets; and the costume colours were vivid. there, among the hurrying pedestrians, and the EFFECTIVE SENTENCES cyclists bumping their way over the uneven From your understanding, which of the surfaces, they could talk safely as long as they following groups of words are sentences? did not display any deep emotion.

Which are fragments? Discuss, with study (C.S. Forester’s “The Hostage”) partners, what is lacking in each fragment.

Make complete sentences of the fragments.

GOOD WRITING 1. Once she “gets set,” Danna has a deadly Getting it right A careful writer works and reworks the eye for perfection.

2. Labours by the hour at a huge hammock material until he or she is happy with it.

Never and Not. Never means “not ever; at basket in her dad’s tool shed.

3. Underhand passes less easily guarded no time; not in any way.” Obviously, it is a than others. strong word.

4. The coach likes each player to have her For 49 years, Hannah Pendley has never own style, but he doesn’t encourage underhad a dissatisfied customer.

The word ‘not’ simply expresses negation. hand passing.

5. Coach Simon insists upon the ability to Do not use ‘never’ when a simple ‘not’ will pass left-handed. do.

We have ‘not’ received the award that is LAST WEEK’S GRAMMAR due from Williams’ Hardware. (Not “We SOLUTIONS never received….”)

Making verbs agree with their subjects: Samuel did not deliver the documents to us last Monday. (Not “Samuel never deliv- 1. Steve and Molino are absent. Was either here last night? 2. Small scissors are used ered ….”)

Double Negatives. Do not use two for cutting toddlers’ nails. 3. Forty-four negatives to express one negation. Errors percent of the resident students have occur most often with the negative statements their own cars. 4. Adam, as well as his step-brothers, has constructed wicker basscarcely, only, hardly, but, never, and not.

The new principal had but one suggestion kets for the fishing exhibition. 5. Weren’t Sean’s pictorial tables laid alongside Daphfor us. (Not had not but one.)

Kelly can hardly believe that we complet- ne’s zone maps on the side counters in the ed all the corsage orders on time. (Not cannot Mathematics Room? 6. Were you at the assembly? The debating club has won two hardly believe.) prizes. 7. One of the steering committee Something to Do Make the correct selections in the follow- members has been awarded a substantive contract with Stephen and Sons’. 8. The ing sentences.

1. George Gordon (never said, did not say) twin sisters were an hour late for the conwhether he would definitely be able to attend cert. Time doesn’t mean much to them.

9. It doesn’t seem right. Twenty-five the Easter festival.

2. Fernando can’t (help but worry, help thousand dollars is not too much to build an outdoor gents’ toilet. 10. There are worrying) about the rising interest rates.

3. Alisa (has, hasn’t) hardly any customer never too many conscientious workers in the church body! 11. Each of the sons was calls arranged for next week.

4. The shipping department (has, hasn’t) presented with a piece of gold jewellery.

12. Nathan Kindler is one of those people scarcely any orders backlogged.

5. Ms. London (did not say, never said) who are naturally gifted in Mathematics.

13. Jason Plumber is the only one of the that she was cancelling her service contract. wire benders who comes early to work.

PUNCTUATION MARKS 14. Clifford, not his cousins, works after The Comma Copy the following sentences. They cover school in the National Free Library. 15. all uses of the comma that we have studied. His first choice of books is language and Supply commas where you know they are communication. 16. Neither the pianists needed. Discuss papers with study partners. nor the trainer expects a stipend. 17. Her 1. Each singer musician and leader in the defected father’s whereabouts are a secret even to the family. Even her mother and group was asked to contribute a song.

2. They spoke of a government “of the grandmother haven’t been told. 18. Has anyone in your class at prayer meeting people by the people and for the people.”

3. These messages by the way arrived late lost an umbrella? 19. Some of my family members usually help me clean the garden last evening did it not?

4. The temperature was below freezing but of weed.

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019

Callaloo Soup with Crab Recipe

INGREDIENTS 12 eddo or dasheen leaves 2-3 crabs 12 oz pickled meat 8 ochroes eschalot celery garlic 2 oz shrimp (optional) 1 pt boiling water 1 tbsp butter METHOD 1 Soak and cut the pickled meat.

Scald crabs to kill them. Scrub well.

2 Strip the stalks and midrib from leaves, wash and roll them. Wash and cut up the ochroes, eschalot, celery and garlic.

3 Put all ingredients except the butter in an enamel or aluminum saucepan.

Pour on the boiling water and season with salt and pepper. Simmer until everything is soft-about 30-45 minutes. Remove crabs, swizzle thoroughly, add butter, and reheat, if liked, remove flesh from crabs and add to the callaloo before serving.

4 Serve with foo-foo, made of green plantains and hard yams.

Serves 6

LI

LII

Chronicle Pepperpot February 3, 2019