Guyana Chronicle E-Paper PepperPot 02-23-2019

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

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[From the archives of the Guyana Graphic: Published on February 25, 1970] THE birth of the first Republic Day baby took place at the Georgetown Hospital.

It was disclosed that of the 25 babies born in Georgetown on Republic Day,24 were born at the Georgetown Hospital, while the other baby was born at the Davis

Memorial Hospital.

An official of the Georgetown Hospital said that Norma London of Princes Street, Lodge, gave birth to the first baby at 12:03am on Republic Day. The baby which was born in Ward Five of the Maternity Block of the hospital, weighed seven pounds eight ounces. She is the fourth child

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

of the family.

At 12:05am, Frances Byrne, 40, of Zes Kenderen, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, gave birth to her second child at the Davis Memorial Hospital. At the time of birth, the child, a boy, weighed eight pounds eight ounces.

Mr Cyril Plummer, Administrator of the

Georgetown Hospital and Dr. Harold Gates, Superintendent of the Davis Memorial Hospital, presented packages to the mothers of babies born on Republic Day. The packages, which were donated

by Zwitsal representatives and De Caires Brothers, contained milk, vitamin tablets and other items.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

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years after the Cooperative

50

Republic was envisioned

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APPY Mashramani Guyana!

Today is a Sunday unlike any other. Today, the streets will be filled with people having a good time, because hey, it’s a celebration after hard work. What is even more spectacular (yes, even more than the extra holiday tomorrow), is that today, Guyana observed its 50th year as a Cooperative Republic.

Before the past few months, when I started reading more about the genesis of the Cooperative Republic, I will admit, I was ignorant of this. For me, it was always just a mere shift to a system of governance where the people and their elected representatives of a country, including an executive President, held the power. That is true of a Republic, but Guyana came to be more than a Republic, the country transformed into a Cooperative Republic.

Gaining independence was one thing, but in August 1969, Guyana’s political leaders agreed that for this country to pursue a development trajectory that was inclusive of all Guyanese- no matter class, creed, race or otherwise-the country would become this Cooperative Republic.

The “Cooperative” concretised the imperative of “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”, wherein each Guyanese was responsible for adding to the collective development of the country. This wasn’t an attempt to forge the elusive national unity by virtue of attempting to forget the differences that exist in Guyana’s myriad of social groups (a predisposition I once believed in). Instead, it recognised that each person, though different, could contribute to Guyana in their own meaningful way.

It was a vision outlined to usher in economic viability

for Guyanese. It is no secret that political power is inextricably linked to economic power. And it is no secret that even with independence, the ‘small man’ was not going to be able to fully participate in the decision-making process.

With this system, however, a higher degree of agency was afforded to the small Guyanese.

In so doing, a third sector of the economy was opened up. In addition to the public (government) and private sectors, the cooperative sector emerged. Now, let’s add some context here for the cooperative sector. Perhaps the most well-known, historical example of this was the village movement. The formerly enslaved Africans pooled their meagrely wages together and bought plantations from the white colonial masters. These plantations were later developed into villages and communities, which still stand tall today.

“In the first decade or so after 1970, hundreds of cooperative societies were established in Guyana in such sectors as small- and medium-scale farming, agro-processing, consumer marketing, and the transportation sector and a number of national institutions were created to support them,” Permanent Representative of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana to UN, Ambassador Rudolph M. Ten-Pow related, last February.

These national institutions included a Cooperative Bank, the Guyana National Cooperative Bank, which provided capital to cooperative societies. Additionally, he reminded that in 1973, the Kuru Kuru Cooperative College, which was established to strengthen the cooperative movement by providing inter-disciplinary outreach and extension programs that

addressed the business aspects of cooperatives, including organization, financing, management, and marketing.

Legislation was also enacted to provide a conducive environment for this landscape.

However, he did relate that the role of cooperatives in Guyana was not insusceptible to the negative economic impact of declining sugar prices, and a general decline in the local economy, thus, the cooperative sector contracted and was never brought back to that peak it was at then.

Guyana is the only country in the world where the development model of ‘cooperativism’ is captured in the official name of our country.

It was a noble and novel undertaking 50 years ago but was never fully realised.

50 years later, the legacy of what once was and what could have been should still linger at the back of our heads. At a time when Guyana has only just begun lifting oil from beneath its shores and is set to be quite the wealthy country, at least on a per capita basis, it is critical to consider this developmental pathway once envisioned.

The creation of a Cooperative Republic had its groundings in the prevailing socialist ethos of the day. It advocated for the creation of a more egalitarian society. The merits of a socialist system and the capitalist system can be argued all day, but what is inarguable, in my opinion, is the need for Guyanese to remember this vision of being Cooperative. Internecine strife has stunted this country’s growth, and I am personally fed up with this, man. This Golden Jubilee really, really presents us with the opportunity to ‘Reflect, Celebrate and Transform.

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► Tips for surviving long-distance relationships

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RECEIVED an email from an avid reader who claims to be in a long-distance relationship which is causing significant stress.

Having been in one myself in the past, I understand the pain and strain it can cause.

I’m going to share some tips that worked for me and my partner, hoping that it will work for you as well.

Many people believe that long-distance relationships won’t and don’t work. A lot of people even discourage them or refuse to participate in them.

However, there are many things one can do to prove this belief wrong.

I’m not necessarily saying it’s going to be easy but what is really? We have to work hard for everything we want in life; love being no different.

relationship. Believe me, you cannot live harmoniously together until you learn how to be apart. Being apart increases healthy communication and intimacy. There is a famous quote which says “I would rather be here, far away from you, but feeling really close, rather than close to you but feeling really far away”.

Also, just as importantly, look at it as an opportunity for you to grow as an individual. There is a huge personal benefit of cultivating your own friendships and interests. Not only is it personally beneficial but it also brings more to your relationship.

There needs to be mutual respect and trust in any relationship but this is especially important in a long-distance one. How do you handle this? Set some ground rules that manage

other, nothing breaks trust and respect faster than lies.

Be honest about your feelings and what’s going on in your life.

Don’t have too rigid of a communication schedule. This might work for some people but it did not work for me. You speak when you can or speak only when you want. There is nothing more useless and hurtful than a forced conversation.

Create a bucket list together- things that you will do next time you see each other. This is healthy to identify shared interests as well as gives you both something to look forward to. However, even though you have a list of things you want to do together, do not put your own life on hold. No doubt that distance requires sacrifice but too much causes re-

People can feel sad and lonely in these types of relationships but with technology these days, it saves us from these feelings.

Even if you don’t have access to the newest technology or even the internet, it is still workable.

To me, distance makes the simplest things the sweetest. Daily messages, letters and calls suddenly mean so much. People think you have to be in constant conversation to make this type of relationship work but you don’t, you simply have to have the right conversations every time you have the chance.

You can view this as an opportunity for your

your expectations. This does not mean to control the other person- what they do or where they go but rather, let them know what you need to feel emotionally satisfied.

Try to communicate creatively- there are so many ways to do this, phone, texts, email, social media or my favourite, old-time written letters and postcards. Mix it up and keep things interesting.

Do things together, watch the same movie at the same time, read the same books, play online games, play games over the phone – you can still spend quality time from a distance.

Stay honest with each

sentment.

Finally and most importantly, stay confident and positive in your relationship. Positive energy creates positive outcomes.

Insecurity will ruin all the work you’ve already committed to putting in. If you or your partner didn’t want to be in the relationship, you wouldn’t be. Gratitude for the relationship also makes the distance easier – practise this every day.

One more thing- make sure you always say good morning and good night.

Even if you don’t talk for the rest of the day, it’s always nice starting and ending your day with love.

Thank you for reading and please continue to

send your topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. If

you would like to book a private appointment

with me, please text or WhatsApp 623-0433.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

Welcome to Blairmont Village

A peaceful place of hard-working people

By Michel Outridge

HIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited Blairmont Village, West Bank Berbice,which is home to mostly sugar workers, a handful of fishermen and cash-crop farmers.

Blairmont is sandwiched between Ithaca and Rosignol villages, with the latter being the central point for business.

Blairmont is divided into four settlements, that and a housing scheme, Zorg-enHoop.

The community has many shops and restaurants, a Mandir, a Mosque and several churches.

Cash crops produced

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Ameer Khan

from Blairmont are sold to wholesalers and are also retailed at the Rosignol Market.

Blairmont has a population of about 2,400 residents of predominantly Indo-Guyanese and a few Afro-Guyanese and it is home of the Blairmont Sugar Estate, which employs most of the villagers.

Blairmont Sugar Estate is one of three surviving sugar estates and the people of Blairmont depend heavily on it for their livelihoods.

Upon entering the Blairmont Sugar Estate main access road, the Pepperpot Magazine encountered a group of men-employees of the estate.

Ameer Khan was part of the group attached to the “Spray Gang” and it was just approaching midday when they made their way out of the cane fields after spraying various chemicals to prevent weeds from growing on the cane lands.

The 29-year-old explained that they are usually

divided into groups of seven and they go into the vast cane fields owned by the estate and with the use of different chemicals, they walk through the cane beds and spray.

He added that they gain access to the cane fields via the sideline dams and most days they start early before the place gets hot and try to finish their task by noon.

Khan reported that all chemicals are mixed in the cane fields and depending on the weed growth, they would spray adequately.

The father of one related that they had covered 21 acres that day and are paid weekly.

Khan is from Cotton Tree, a few villages away and would commute via the estate trucks which would transport them daily to and from their homes to the estate.

“We work different locations within the estate’s cultivation and we would have our meals before we start spraying, because we

have to maintain safe practices to safeguard ourselves,” he said.

The sugar worker stated that they are provided annually with all safety gears, including suits, gloves, long boots, hats, respirators, goggles, face masks and umbrellas.

Khan reported that the “Spray Gang” work is not easy, but he does it anyway, because being married he has to provide for his family, even if it entails hard manual labour.

He is one of many sugar workers who would come from nearby villages for work in the community of Blairmont, alongside villagers.

Khan, however, explained that not all sugar workers are cane-cutters and it is not degrading work; in fact, they are a group of skilled workers who perform certain tasks and collectively, they produce sugar from locally grown cane.

The Blairmont Police Station

Focus on the Village

The “Spray Gang” attached to the Blairmont Sugar Estate (Carl Croker photos)

The Blairmont Magistrate’s Court

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

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Blairmont is a good place to raise a family Sandy Dalana with his motorcycle

Cane fields in Blairmont

Nadia Bissoondial at her sewing machine (Carl Croker photos)

Blairmont Sugar Estate

on you,”

By Michel Outridge

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ADIA Bissoondial is a housewife, but she has a part-time job as a seamstress, which she does from the verandah of her house in Blairmont.

This resident moved to Blairmont 24 years ago when she got married and settled in the community where she developed her sewing skill.

That skill has proven to be very useful and it is an additional income to her household and she has a wide customer base, even people from surrounding villages would visit to utilise her expertise.

“Life in Blairmont is okay, but life is how you live it; it can be hard or it can be easy, that depends

she said.

The 48-year-old told the team that she doesn’t waste time and is always doing something to occupy her time.

“I have been sewing for about 10 years after I inherited a sewing machine, the old-time Singer brand, the pedal one and it was on that one I started to sew and to date, I am still using this old-fashioned sewing machine,” she said.

Bissoondial related that if you take care of things they last and she is keen on taking care of her sewing machine, which she is certain will last years to come.

Bissoondial told the team that her husband is a sugar worker at the Blairmont Sugar Estate.

The mother of one reported that she is originally from Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara and has adopted the quiet life in Blairmont and she had to make little or no change at all.

“This sewing work is not steady work because it depends on the pockets of people and when they don’t have money things are at a standstill; and then some people prefer to purchase ready-made clothes,” she said.

Bissoondial told the Pepperpot Magazine that she would get more alteration jobs than actual sewing.

This resident said having a part-time job is based on time management and she would complete her chores early, after which she would prepare break-

fas t and lunch in one cooking session then late in the afternoon she would cook something for dinner.

The team also met Sandy Dalana, an elderly resident, who retired from the Blairmont Sugar Estate after many years of being a boiler operator.

This friendly man stated that he is from Number One Settlement, Blairmont and was on his way home on his motorcycle from the masjid.

The father of four added that he started to work with Guysuco since the days of Booker Tate and after the sugar industry was nationalised and taken over by the government, they were given house lots.

He was one of the early settlers when Guysuco gave out house lots to sugar workers and he was happy to grab the opportunity to construct a house for his family.

“I used to operate the boiler which was used to generate steam for sugar production and it did that for 40 years, after which I took early retirement and I am now enjoying my golden years,” he said.

Dalana however, is advocating better roads for his community; it was observed that the main access road is teeming with potholes and the main wooden bridge has deteriorated and needs some repairs.

“We don’t mind if we get some street lights too, because it’s dark in the night and my wife usually quarrel on me not to ride my motorcycle when it gets late, because of the state of the road,” he said.

Dalana added, however, that Blairmont is indeed a good place to raise a family.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

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Focus on the Village

The ingenious people Pamela Persaud

of Blairmont Village

g , offerin 6:00hrs 1 to n s a r 0h na d om 07:0 lls, chan r a f b d n g g ta s lourie, e ing her h as pho by open c y u ets. te s ta s k asonabl snac but and swe , e s e d it s a u Pamela Persaud’s vegetable u c m o , all re s is p e e s b g m r s a a o e a r h h tr e h s by is t suc bev shade house anaged and she e cold l Marke tionery c o s m m r e n f o e is s n ig k r s o s il s o o s c M l R ine rw o ha t by the of suga the bus ld at the s ena als o t l ts ju s a e e , e S k th y r c r a d o to te plants ing eet the p outside the fac She sta t and all en resid ed to m e is t ic b s h r s s p a ig a ) r h e ld d n stand he ca . ate she wou cale. e at the m that s s in the ormal. ally loc a e m n i ic k te t s g ta a e r te t e e s th a r h mall ld s ge the t th on a lar e has a s e spend (the par tate. f three to described life utridge h h s s o s k O E r c d l id r e o w n e a a a o s th D h g h o d the ee Su d aud The m

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2013 a s a relia (PROPE ade house prod provide started in roduces mostly t e c h je h S s o r p le which p that the vegetab related itiative, d in u a e s r th e f P re part o . rmers a a f f edlings o l u f ttuce se le d n a i pak cho

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Bibi Selena at her roadside stand (Carl Croker photos)

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

We are proud of our Village

Ayube Ahmed Bacchus Tajmool

Sugar workers on their way home in Blairmont (Carl Croker photos)

By Michel Outridge

SSISTANT Vice-chairman of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) Ayube Ahmed Bacchus Tajmool, who took the time off to engage the Pepperpot Magazine, highlighted happenings in the community.

He is a resident of Zorg-en-Hoop, a housing scheme within Blairmont which was established in the 1970s and it was divided into four settlements.

Blairmont is home to predominantly Indo-Guyanese and is the home of the Blairmont Sugar Estate, which comes under Guyana Sugar Corporation (Guysuco).

Tajmool reported that residents depend heavily on the estate, which is considered the backbone of the community and all the lands are owned by Guysuco, except house lots.

He said that the estate has lots of skilled professionals, some of whom are highly qualified and who have received

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Focus on the Village

formal training from Guysuco’s Port Mourant Training School. He explained that the Port Mourant Training School has produced fitter machinists, instrument machinists, electricians, and sugar boiler operators, among others.

Tajmool added that Guysuco also sends workers to the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) to be ably qualified as agriculturists and he was one of those persons who benefitted.

He specialises in crop management and was employed at Blairmont Sugar Estate for 32 years before he parted ways with the estate.

Today, this Blairmont resident has a small business where he cultivates 30 acres of land and has cash crops of eschalot, lettuce, celery, pak choi, cabbage and bora.

Tajmool has wholesale buyers and also supplies five restaurants within the community.

He disclosed that Zorg-en-Hoop has 476 residents, while the entire Blairmont village has about 2,400 villagers.

The 55-year-old stated that there isn’t much land space, so residents do not rear livestock on a large scale.

Tajmool explained that recently he was overseas where he spent about five weeks and there life is different.

“There, you have to earn to spend, but here we can plant and do other things to bring in an income and still live a humble and comfortable life,” he said.

He reported that today, agriculture has taken a different turn because the young people don’t want to plant; the older folk did it and it provided for their families.

Tajmool has lots of shops, schools, garbage collection by the NDC tractor and trailer and other services, so many don’t have to leave the village unless they have other business to conduct.

He related that with Rosignol being a business hub with malls, a market, banks and other businesses, the residents of Blairmont utilise the services there rather than make the journey to the city or New Amsterdam.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

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Focus on the Village

Friendly faces in Blairmont

Shameer Mohamed (Carl Croker photos)

Kenroy James Indal Persaud

The Sideline Dam, Blairmont

The NDC building

By Michel Outridge

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HE team also met Shameer Mohamed, who resides close to the

Sideline Dam at the Blairmont koker. Mohammed was on his way home from Rosignol, where his wife has a small business.

He told the Pepperpot Magazine that he has been living in Blairmont for the past 25 years and it was through marriage that he

came to the community and started a family.

Mohamed added that his wife is from the community and she has a store at Rosignol and he would assist in managing that small business.

The father of one related that the people of Blairmont are hardworking folk, most of whom do hard labour at the nearby estate.

The Pepperpot Magazine spoke to Kenroy James, who is the Team Leader for the Blairmont Community Enhancement Workers.

At the time he was at the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (RDC) building, where he was tasked with handing over cheques to workers.

James said the project has 18 workers, who are divided into three sections, such as Blairmont, Shieldstown and Ithaca, where they are responsible for clearing and cleaning

drainage and irrigation.

He stated the project has been in progress for the past 14 years and they would get an annual grant to pay workers.

“This is a new experience for me because I haven’t done this type of job before, so I get to interact with a lot of people, assist people, as well as I am learning at the same time,” he said.

James related that it is always good to keep one’s community clean and he is pleased to be a part of the Community Enhancement Project.

The team interacted with Indal Persaud, who was just about to go to work at the estate, but took a few minutes off to have a chat.

The 53-year-old stated that things are not always easy for him because when the crop is out every 13 to 14 weeks, he has to look for alternative ways to

source an income.

He explained that the estate would operate based on its crops, so it would operate for 19 to 20 weeks then it goes into ‘out-ofcrop’ season and he would only get four days of work.

Persaud added that he is on a shift system, that is, he works the 14:00hrs23:00hrs shift and is attached to the Mill Dock.

He is tasked with loading the cane from punts to the factory and it is hard manual labour.

The father of five told the Pepperpot Magazine that the estate had not been operating for the past six weeks and they recently re-started; as such, he is happy because he depends on his salary to provide for his family.

He pointed out that Blairmont is one of the three surviving estates.

The others are Albion and Uitvlugt.

One of two kokers in Blairmont

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

What does home

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mean to you?

OME- a four-letter word that is so common yet resonates differently with everyone. It might be unbelievable to think that I can write an entire piece on such a word but there is much more to this word than we can possibly imagine.

If we ask the question: “what does home mean to you?” then the most common answer we’ll receive is exactly what you might be thinking right now; home is a place that you live. Yes, home is oftentimes the place we dwell and live in. It is a welcoming house where we make unforgettable memories with our loved ones.

It can be the room we love so dearly; the room that is plastered with posters, picture frames and colour schemes of our personalities and distinctive tastes. While that is the standardised version of what home is, I’d like to focus my writing a bit more on the ‘not so talked about’ ideas of what home is to us.

The idea of home can also be a place of bitter taste on the tongue for some. For some, the idea of ‘home’ is far-fetched and not worth the time to even think about because of what it reminds them of. Home, for some, is a place where chaos and dysfunction shake hands.

Or, perhaps ‘home’ is a place of sadness or guilt.

Sadly enough, not everyone manages to make great memories in four walls amongst the people you cherish the most. In fact, some people have to share the place they call home with people they can’t even stand to look at or speak. I am not a family counsellor but what I will say is that those ideas of ‘home’ need to stop.

As I was sitting in a family counselling class at UG, I was listening to my

lecturer talk on the topic of ethnicity and family therapy. She stressed on the point; “a normal family does not equate to a healthy family”. Her point is valid as she suggested that what we deem as ‘normal’ might just be a factor based on our environment and that does not equate to the union being a healthy one.

I have mentioned the general idea of home but me, being the deep thinker that I am, I prefer to also elaborate a bit more on other ideas of home.

For instance, home can also be a person. Home can be the arms of the person you feel the safest and closest to. Home can also be your family and friends, despite actually living in a house per se. Some people might disagree that a home is actually a house and I will agree with them. Traditional nomads (people who constantly move from one place to another) will also share this sentiment. Home to some is not the physicality of a building or structure, it is an emotional sentiment shared with others.

As I sat to write this piece my mind also led me to another heartbreaking question; “What do people who live on the streets call home?”. I reminisced on the many times I have seen the destitute curling up in a cardboard box with little to no physical attachments to call their own. What or who is their home then, at that moment? I have also thought about foster children who move from house to house throughout their childhood as well as, people who are simply running away from or running towards something better; or for better opportunities in an entirely different country.

All of these people might have different answers but I am sure they all will share the same sentiment of emotional points of

view of home-- which isn’t that different from many of us. For me, if my parents are to one day magically disappear then my house simply wouldn’t be my home anymore and it’ll be safe to call me homeless. Simply put, my parents are my home. The old saying, “home is where the heart is” literally resonates with me.

Whatever or whoever your home is, I hope you hold onto the meaning and feeling of it tightly. I am glad you have somewhere or someone that you go to when you’re feeling unsafe and uncomfortable. Our homes, no matter what our definitions may be, keeps us safe from the world.

Otherwise, we would not have called them; ‘home’. If by chance you are yet to find your home or you believe homes are temporary and your meaning of them changes as you grow then that is okay.

No matter what home is to you, I know that your heart rushes and urges to get back to it after a long vacation or even a long day, the way mine urges to get back home to my parents and our cozy house. They are my haven; they are my home. What does home mean to you?

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

‘

NORMAL People’ is a story about many things – education, class, mental health.

More than anything else, however, it is a story about love. As with all love stories, the author, Sally Rooney, relies on two central characters who are drawn to each other and then subsequently pulled away. This is repeated where they are moving to and from each other whilst battling many different elements within their society as they try to achieve that state of being, where everything falls into place, at last, so that they can be together.

Rooney’s novel is set in Ireland and focuses on a wealthy, but initially unpopular, high school girl who has a relationship with the poor, but extremely well-loved, son of her housekeeper. This magnetic duo, though connected on the cerebral level, lead different lives, one where Marianne wants to be loved, but, due to her abused upbringing, she seems to feel unworthy on some level, while Connell, with his many friends and popularity in high school, refuses to publicly acknowledge his attraction and relationship to Marianne. Therefore, the two are forced into a strange mutualistic state, where they are sexually and emotionally gratified by being with each other in secret, yet, they are both unable to get what they want even more than that, which is

the same relationship itself, but without the demands and shame that come with secrecy.

This setup is interesting because it introduces us to the complexity of the main players. Marianne and Connell are not mindless stock characters stuck in a tale of star-crossed love. They come across as real human beings, with layers to their personalities and ways of thinking. Marianne is a great student and a nice person, but the fact that she gives in to everyone around her, including her brother who physically assaults her constantly, and Connell himself who has sex with her and tells her he loves her and yet refuses to publicly acknowledge her makes Marianne both a heroine that we want to be happy as well as a sad character who has been lost to tragedy.

Connell, similarly, is a star athlete, popular with both the guys and the girls at his school, has a close relationship with his mom, and comes across as a good guy, particularly in the fact that he shows love to Marianne, and yet his initial callousness towards her, the fact that he makes her sneak in and out of his house so she is not seen, or the fact that he asks another girl to their school dance, are factors relating to his identity that cannot be overlooked.

Such complexity makes the reader question whether this is why the novel is called ‘Normal People,’ because it focuses on specific

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NSPIRED by the uncanny, the unorthodox, social dynamics, the cultural architecture of our society, the texture and tones of our indigenous identity, whether through music, fashion or poetry, artist and art educator Ancel Daniel pursues themes on cultural identity. Her interest rests in the idea of branding and how cultural pollination has changed the face of the region. She is influenced by her Guyanese cultural heritage.

However, it has been slightly altered through her interaction with the European and American contemporary art world. “The question was, how do I bridge the gap between my world and theirs, in terms of art language and cultural representation. Hence, my old way of making art evolved, yet I remained true to my indigenous aesthetics,” she stated.

Ancel Daniel nee Boston, The Caribbean Bread Basket, Terracotta pottery, Installation, 2012

Ancel Daniel nee Boston is an Associate Degree tutor at the Barbados Community College, Barbados. She has a background in Ceramic and Painting. Her initial career path is quite peculiar for an artist. Ancel trained as a nurse at the St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital and worked in that capacity for eleven years. In 2007 she resigned from nursing and taught for one year at the Achievers’ Academy Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara. It was there that her love for educating others blossomed. In that same year, she began formal art training at the E.R Burrowes School of Art. However, it wasn’t until 2012 that she completed her diploma. In 2015 Ancel gained a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from The Barbados Community College. She later earned her Master’s degree in Fine Arts from University of Arts London, Chelsea College of Arts

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FROM PAGE xvi ← in 2018. Ancel shared that “The artist’s role is to weave an idea into the fabric of society; to pose questions that would stimulate thought and initiate dialogue. The artist can impact society negatively or positively depending on his or her creative ideas and objectives, especially when the concept is on issues such as religion, politics, social norms, culture and gender.”

Ancel works within her academic space to create her conceptual ideas. She believes that students should see their tutor at work because it provides a source of motivation. As a former art educator, I can attest to this fact. Not only does working alongside students motivate them but it also helps them to develop the attitude of research which in turn helps them to build a solid body of work. Ancel stated that “I believe the artist is the voice of reckoning, the light on the issue, therefore reading before attempting to create is vital.”

views. Most importantly, lead by example. Some may argue that our environment may not be as inviting as Ancel’s, assuming that hers is /was inviting! There is no doubt that our local art program has much room for development. However, education and innovation are the keys to success. As art educators, remember that you are first of all an artist and that artists create.

Ancel shares her dissatisfaction within the art world.

She is aware of cliques, where vital information as to how to get to someplace in one’s development is kept tight-lipped and shared only within familiar space. There is also the lack of governmental financial support for visual art education so that we artists can keep abreast with the moving art world outside of our demographics. While she is very appreciative of her foundation training in Guyana, she noted that she was not fully prepared for her studies abroad.

Some studio equipment was new to her because it was

Ancel Daniel nee Boston, Modern Sensitivity to Cultural History (a look at Caribbean Carnival), mixed media, installation, 2018

There is an upcoming art exhibition of teachers and students later this year. As they prepare, I want to encourage them to remain dedicated to the art process. The works that will be presented should tackle subjects in the global conversation. Teacher, treat your students like the professional artists you are training them to become.

Encourage them to explore the art process, instead of focusing exclusively on a single subject. Encourage them to seek information through books and inter-

not available here. According to Ancel. She got a rude awakening. “The question posed to me was how do I create futuristic art, then again, what is futuristic art?

This sent me to the libraries, galleries and museums, to gather information. I kept a journal and this helped me to develop and speak the European art language, yet I stayed true to my identity as a South America Guyanese/ Caribbean artist.”

As you examine Ancel’s work, you notice the evolution of style and technique.

However, she has managed to maintain her Caribbean identity. In closing, she said “I have seen images of exhibitions via social Media from Castellani House, Art Gallery, it was superb.

The works are Indigenous to the space, with a strong representation of roots and culture, and this is what the art world outside of the region is curious about.

However, the question always is, how do we make our conversation global?”

Ancel Daniel nee Boston, The Caribbean Bush Doctor and Modernity, Clay Sculpture, Installation, 2015

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characters and their failings, their indecision, their major flaws, that might be perceived as being removed from ‘normalcy.’ But maybe this is ironic, considering that such complexity actually only enhances their humanness, their ‘normalness,’ because there are more people that are bad at relationships, more people that are arrogant, more people that expect to be hurt, that allow themselves to be hurt than there are people who do not. Marianne and Connell are normal, not despite their flaws, but, rather, because of their flaws. That is just an unfortunate reality about people – most of us are messed up. That, simply, is the norm.

Marianne and Connell’s relationship, though initially very toxic, is as addictive to the reader as those two are to each other. Only about one-third of the novel is focused on their high school life. Rooney’s focus on the couple is not just limited to the teenage years. Before we even get to the midway point of the text, Marianne and Connell are going to the same college, where their relationship has gotten even more complicated and their roles within their new social circle have been completely turned around.

Marianne flourishes at college, coming out of her shell and establishing new relationships and friendships that

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transform her, at least outwardly and socially, into a figure that her awkward teenage self would probably not recognise. Connell, meanwhile, struggles to fit in and flounders, becoming depressed and isolated with only Marianne to rely on as the life he once knew is whisked away from him. This reversal of sorts between Marianne and Connell is a compelling part of the book because it allows us to see how much of a person’s personality is determined by their environment. If you take away Connell’s status and friends, what do you have left? If you remove Marianne from her abusive home and take away her loneliness, what do you have left? More importantly, how well do these two, pared down to their true selves, fit together, if they do fit together at all?

The push and pull that exists between Marianne and Connell are really how the rest of the novel unfolds. No matter how far Marianne goes, no matter if Connell is in a relationship with someone else, the two are always drawn back to each other somehow, only to fail again and drift apart before circling back to one another’s arms. Indeed, this technique might be the oldest with regards to love stories. After all, what is a love story but a journey in which

two lovers try to find their way to each other, whether physically, spiritually, or emotionally, despite the obstacles in their way? Although Marianne and Connell’s journey weaves a narrative out of the back and forth, Rooney’s stands apart because there is no part of the novel where the reader feels as if he/she knows what is going to happen.

This, compounded with the creation of such complex characters, leaves us wanting more. We never know whether Marianne or Connell will truly end up together, and that is what keeps us going on and on, page after page. We want them to be together, but we also believe they might be better apart. We wish they could have a happy life together, but have we really forgiven them for things done and said in the past? Are they the best for each other? These are the kinds of questions that the novel forces us to confront.

‘Normal People,’ with its unique portrayal of love might not be the story for people who devour pulpy romantic novels, nor is it the novel for people who despise romance in literature. This book is for those people who believe that love can bring the utmost joy, and welcome it into their lives knowing that that love also comes with a tremendous amount of pain.

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Twenty in 2020 ....

FROM PAGE xxi ←

By Francis Quamina Farrier

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URING the past few weeks I have been wondering what would be the topic of my Pepperpot Feature Article of today - February 23, 2020 - Guyana’s 50th Republic Anniversary. Just a few days ago I concluded my wandering thoughts and decided to fo-

cus on the bright faces and minds of those Guyanese who are now age 20, and who will be voting for the very first time in national general elections. I have also decided to respectfully pass on some elderly advice to first-time voters; the kind of advice I received when I was a first-time voter.

To first-time voters, I would let them know that back in colonial British Gui-

ana, one could not have voted at general elections unless one was a property owner.

One had to own house and land. In other words, ordinary poor people did not have a franchise and were not entitled to vote. So, many of our ancestors were really not full citizens as we are today. Then came what was known as “Adult Suffrage,” which gave voting rights to all adults 21 years and older.

Previously a filthy, grassy, muddy speedboat landing at Supenaam, Region Two, this facility has recently been upgraded (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

That was subsequently reduced to 18 years and older. So here you are 18 and older and ready to vote at the March 2 general elections. I have heard some youths pose the question, “Wuh is me one vote?” Well, if 10,000 youths say the same thing and fail to exercise their franchise, then the outcome of the elections would be very different. I have also heard some youths say, “Me ain’t able wid dem long lines.” Well, even though voters are encouraged to go out and vote early, those who do not relish standing in long lines during the early hours of Elections Day, could be advised of another option. Go to the polling place just after midday when the lines become somewhat shorter.

As the days and weeks of 2020 come and go, as month by month this leap year leaps to December 31, I urge youngsters to make mental or written notes of what they would like our beautiful Guyana to achieve by the time it is Jubilee Year 2070 - 50 years in the future. Now, I am not telling youngsters to do something which I did not do when Guyana became a republic back in 1970. I had dreams and expectations for Guyana 50 years ago. Some of the things which I had hoped for were bridges across the Demerara and Berbice rivers; those were Where Henry Muttoo grew up

ACHIEVED. A road from New Amsterdam, going south to Kimbia and on to Kwakwani, then a bridge over the Berbice River at that location, with the road continuing north through Ituni and on to Linden. That was PARTLY ACHIEVED. I also wished for the “Cheddi Jagan Highway” from Parika on the East Bank of Essequibo going 55 miles due south to Riversview, with a bridge across the Essequibo River to Agatash, and a road north-bound into Bartica. That was NOT ACHIEVED. Now here is another big dream of mine, which is to see a superhighway winding through the forests for 111 miles from Bartica to Mahdia. Well, that has certainly NOT BEEN ACHIEVED, even though so much gold, diamonds, timber, stone etc. have been extracted from that area of the country. I longed to see paved streets at Lethem in Region Nine. Hurrah, as that was ACHIEVED. My other hinterland dream was for paved streets at Mahdia. ACHIEVED. Better and more professional service by the Disciplined Servicesthis is a sad disappointment: NOT ACHIEVED. There are so many instances of members of the Disciplined Forces who have committed various crimes; some very serious. I happen to have been a victim of police rogue behaviour. However, mention must be made that there are ranks who have made their forces proud, going above and beyond the call of duty.

Yes, there are many disappointments in what I had hoped for when Guyana became a republic 50 years ago. Since I will be long gone at the time of Guyana’s republic centenary, I urge the youths of today to dream dreams and to do what-

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Introducing ‘Psychological First Aid’

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LTHOUGH the healthcare sector in Guyana has been making improvements in the provision of healthcare services overall, there are gaps which remain that need to be filled. One of the areas in desperate need for more funding and increased service provision is mental health and well-being.

Recognising the need for urgent intervention, Ian Harris, a psychotherapist, created HEMS. HEMS is the only organisation in Guyana where citizens can receive “psychological first aid.” Harris holds a Degree in Communications from the University of Guyana; he is a trained wilderness first responder and basic life support instructor.

HEMS is now in its second year, having been established in late 2018. The facility is operated by former emergency services personnel who are trained to counsel and advise those suffering from mental health concerns. Affected individuals can contact the team via their hotline where “psychological first aid” is administered to the affected individual. Following the initial conversation, affected individuals can begin the process of getting help through relevant and appropriate interventions.

Harris created HEMS because he noticed the gap i n t h e m a rket for Guyanese suffering from mental health conditions.

“Many persons suffer from some form of mental illhealth. You may suffer from low mood, anxiety, depression, or you may just have depression, which without the

Ian Harris – HEMS founder

proper interventions could lead to suicidal thoughts or ideation,” Harris said.

He noted, “There are many challenges affecting society right now; if you are a millennial and you spend more than half an hour on social media, you could be suffering from what is known as social isolation which basically means that as a millennial you are the most connected, but you are also the loneliest. One of the mental health challenges you are likely to face is social isolation which can lead to anxiety and depression.” He further went on to note the added stresses young people might face when making the transition from school to the work environment. Harris said that many millennials simply “Aren’t prepared for it and they need to be mentally prepared for that transition and most have difficulty adjusting to it...There are a lot of young persons battling with anxiety and depression issues; until HEMS came into play there was no avenue for them to turn to get some help. Young people often feel like there is something going on with me and I don’t want to talk to persons, because they might think that I am tripping

─ HEMS by Ian Harris

and so they suffer in silence.” He continued, “With the creation of HEMS, I wanted persons to become aware that it is an organisation that exists to listen to you and meet your needs and inspire you to talk with someone.

You are able to understand why you are suffering from whatever mental illness, and it doesn’t mean that you are mad. It means that you are suffering from an issue that could be reversed, depending on the intervention.

For example, social isolation is an issue that nobody is talking about in Guyana, but there is extensive research on how social isolation impacts young people. Sixty

percent of Guyana’s population is under 25; that’s an extremely young population, but most times we are not aware of what is going on with them.”

Although there continues to be a certain stigma surrounding mental health, Harris is adamant that it should not affect persons’ ability to get help. “This is our second year and I have taken a deliberate approach to be very militant about saving lives affected by mental health. Issues are occurring on a daily basis every sec-

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Introducing ‘Psychological First ...← FROM PAGE xxiii

ond of the day. There are many persons living lives in a world of hopelessness and that relates to how they see themselves and how they see the world.

A lot of young people see themselves as hopeless, he said/. “Unfortunately, until HEMS there was no known agency that has the facility to deal with such circumstances. We are attempting to reverse that so they know that what they are suffering is not a situation that cannot be changed; it could be reversed with the right intervention. From my interactions with many young persons, mental health is a big issue for them but it is taboo, so they are reluctant to speak about it. I want to reach out to those persons and say that it is okay to talk and that help is nearby.”

Mental health also has an effect on one’s ability to form and maintain good relationships, especially interpersonal domestic relationships.

HEMS offers couples therapy. It is primarily a service designed to work with couples who are having difficulty relating to each other, Harris said. “Many times there are many triggers that come up in the relationship that results in some form of verbal exchange that could turn violent.

Through therapy, they could have those matters resolved. Couples should call to indicate that they are a couple having challenges. Most interventions would take about five counselling sessions,” he said, adding, “We could deal with anxiety issues where the person doesn’t trust the other. Anxiety has a devastating effect on the body. By having a third

party sit-down with you to look at the challenges you are having, through psychological first aid, we could identify what the issues are and find a way to have those issues resolved so as a couple you could learn how to communicate with each other and how to respond well to each other to solve problems.” Harris further went on to state that “if you’re prepared to spend close to $2 million dollars for a wedding and prior to that wedding you are still having a number of issues that are minor, but could become major, as in life-threatening or life-changing, then it makes sense to speak to a psychotherapist. Say we’re having challenges with communication, my other half understanding me clearly as an individual and my needs, you have to take some time to find out how those needs can be met so that, as a couple, you become synergised and can work together to achieve common goals and common objectives without going into a zone of conflict and arguments, depression and suicidal thoughts.”

Harris asserted that “as psychotherapists- we are aware of the needs of millennials; it is easy to identify the issues and to find prudent and pragmatic ways to make sure that when they come out of these sessions, they can feel satisfied and can live meaningful and comfortable lives.”

HEMS also offers a service to emergency services personnel who can contact them via the hotline to discuss their mental health concerns. The HEMS hotline is (592) 503 0443.

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FROM PAGE xviii ←

WROTE about young people last week and this week I feel convicted to do the same. The Love Revolution is part of the Living with Intention Tour and our mission continues. Last week I shared a message from Richard Ishmael Secondary School and we have a message from Kayla Khaleel, who attends Peter’s Hall Primary.

What is love ?

According to goodtherapy.org, love is a complex set of emotions, behaviours and beliefs associated with strong feelings of affection, protectiveness, warmth and respect for another person.

Example A person may say that he/she loves their dog, loves God, love their school, etc.

Love is considered to be a positive and a negative emotion.

Do you agree with that?

While the positive aspects of love are glorified, the negative impacts are now coming to the forefront... this is evident when we open the newspapers or listen to the news; always a love-hate, bitter-sweet ending for our greatest resource.

And even more crucial, the culture that is now prevalent in our schools. Quite a number of persons show prejudicial and discriminatory feelings towards one’s culture, customs and beliefs, which leads to school fights and confrontations among teachers and parents.

Now we have phones replacing books, knives are replacing pens and pencils; the internet is interfering with our minds and cognition.

Albert Einstein told us long ago a wise truth: that is the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.

How can we show love and thus have a revolution?

- foster cooperation - avoid name-calling and labelling - be proactive when it comes to social ills.

- be influential, be a role model - maintain respect, regardless - have tolerance for individuals who hold varying cultures, backgrounds, beliefs, customs, etc.

- encourage meaningful relationships - engage in communication - remember to say meaningful but simple words such as thank you, please, excuse me, etc.

- instil morals and values in our children - have workshops with parents or guardians on child-rearing and the ethical practices needed to have a well-rounded child -work hands-on to eradicate bullying and violence in schools, communities and the country as a whole.

I hope my garden of peace, love and understanding fills your heart and gives you joy, happiness and great ambience” I love to give the chance to young people to express themselves because that gives us a guage as to the directio in which they are headed. We recently completed the third MODEL IMAGE –Fashion the future you.

What was special about this class is how vocal and interactive young men were vocal and interactive. I am so fortunate to have a front-row seat to the transformation of these future leaders. One of the young men said, “This programme not only teaches me how to be

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uyanese have been hard at work for the past 50 years, pushing this nation toward higher heights of development. In fact, in the past year alone, Guyana has become a world class adventure tourism destination, a global giant in biodiversity, and an oil-producing nation.

What better time to celebrate our growth and development than during the ‘Golden Jubilee’ celebration of Republic Day, the 50th Anniversary of Guyana’s final step toward national freedom and true cultural identity. This edition of Government in Action explores the historical significance of Republic Day and the Mashramani celebration, a fitting cultural counterpart Dr. Nigel Gravesande, of this turning point in Guyana’s history.

Registrar of the University of Guyana 50 YEARS AND COUNTING Ms. Clementine Marshall, a member of the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), attended the first Mashramani celebration in Linden. Ms. Marshall reminisced on her first Republic Day and recounted the events.

“I think Mashramani over the years, [has] always been fantastic, always fantastic.

I know it originated in Linden and I remember being in Linden for the very first Mashramani …

When you [stood] up at Wismar and you cross over… and you look at the [connecting] bridge and you see all these flags and the music and people gyrating and people dancing… In those days you were not afraid of picking up friends…. It was a jolly time... I’m still saying hail up to ‘Mash’. Hail up to ‘Mash’! I plan to enjoy myself at this Mashramani. Fifty years! [Because] I know I will be somewhere else in the next 50 years,” she said.

Ms. Marshall is excited to see Guyanese who have been living abroad out on the ‘Mash’ route, cheering on the revellers.

“Now that it’s in Georgetown, it makes us very happy

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Golden J Embracing na to have Mashramani here. The organisers and GovernGuyana?

I said…

Ms.the Debbie Argyle created the I want to do some rice bags and sugar bags…

Guyana especially for to be functionable? Half the time the rice ment, especially, we want to [say] thanks for b r i ncandle, g i n g but is it going ‘Mash’, this wonderful holiday, [to a place] the ‘Golden where Jubilee’ 50thbag… disintegrates…. I said, you know what, persons who are living overseas could come Republic Day celebration fabric, denim… and I ran from there and that is back [and participate]. I know persons who how this collection was born… One of the things are living overseas who are very happy to about upcycled fashion, it’s always one of a come back for ‘Mash’. They’re happy to be kind. You’ll never find a design that always back in Guyana for anything… looks the same. You’ll never get but ‘Mash’, 50 years of the same colour [of] jeans to Karen time…

RepublicMrs. is a special patch. You’ll never get the shows ComeBrathwaite out to Mashramani! lines of the jeans to fall in [the off her upcycled Ms. Clementine Let’s enjoy ‘Mash’!

Fifty years! same] spot… So, it’s fabric and it’s Marshall, draped in a We’redenim goingdesigns: to enj o y upcycled but the creation is one of a a necklace and banner of Guyanese ourselves!

C o m e kind,” she said. bracelet. She sees flags. Ms. Marshall t o Ms. Braithwaite’s creativity her upcycled fashattended the very first proves that any Guyanese can ion is her personal Mashramni in Linden, make their own unique contricontribution to the Upper Demerara-Berbice ‘green Guyana’ (Region Ten) in 1970 butions to anycreated nationalthe moveMs. Debbie Argyle initiative ment.

She feels especially Guyana candle, especially for honoured to be able to50th offer her the ‘Golden Jubilee’ Republic Daythis celebration upcycled fashion during ‘Golden Jubilee’ celebration.

“We have to remember our ancestors had a reason why they chose such an … event for Durban us to celebrate to remember that we’re now a Republic.

Park! Be on the To be a part of this 50th is an honour because… I hope I ‘Mash’Mrs. route!

Get will live to see the next Jubilee but there’s no guarantee. I’m Karen it Brathwaite on!” she said. happy to be a Guyanese and be able to say let us upcycle. Let shows off her Karen upcycledus promote a ‘green’ Ms. Guyana in honour and celebration of our Ms. Clementine Dr. Nigel Gravesande, a B rdenim a i t h wdesigns: a i t e , ancestors and in Marshall, celebrationdraped of thisin Jubilee.

To be a part of it is Registrar of the a necklace and fun, the laughter,banner of Guyanese Fashion Designer of Kosthe music, the joy, the taste of different foods.

University of Guyana bracelet.

She sees flags.

Marshall mic Vibes is using Mashramani It’s an exciting time for Ms. us and I’m embracing it,” she said. her upcycled fashvery first from the Mahaica to showcase her designs, which Ms. Debbieattended Argyle, the representative ion is her personal Mashramni in Linden, she says will helpcontribution to promote to a the Women’s Group, along with her colleagues, designed a special Upper Demerara-Berbice ‘green’ Guyana. home-made candle to celebrate 50th Republic Day. ‘green Guyana’ (Region Ten) inGuyana’s 1970 “President Granger spoke about the ‘green’ “It means a lot to us. As soon as January steps out… this initiative Guyana initiative [and] I was like, bingo! And then in my ‘Mash’ feeling is in us. You feel this revived spirit with us. mind, I said how can I contribute, as a designer, to the ‘green’ We know we have to start making [products] to come up at Scene from Mash season 2020 (Courtesy of the Department of Public Information)

Scene from Mash season 2020 (Courtesy of the Department of Public Information)

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Jubilee: ational unity the Expo… the ‘Mash’ candle [is] the flag. We made [it] last Dr. Gravesande listed a few important questions Guyanese Amerindians… with the… descendants of slaves and then the week… Around this time… we feel happy. We mix to- should consider while reflecting on the significance of indentured servants that came, some from India, some from gether. We have this joyous spirit with us… We have Republic Day: Have we embraced the national in- Portugal, some from China, all fusing their cultural traditions a lot of foreigners in here… and I feel good about stitutions that gave us a sense of identity? in a rich, authentic, Guyanese experience,” he said. it because people can come home and enjoy themHave we worked hard to transform the Dr. Gravesande added that during this elections season, selves… Some people haven’t come here for ages Guyanese economy for the benefit of our Mashramani is a fitting reminder of Guyana’s unique ability and they feel happy among their family and people? How have we considered the to overcome ethnic, cultural, and religious divides for the sake friends,” she said. challenges and the com- of national unity.

Ms. Argyle offered some advice plexities facing a small “And what must happen in 2020, at a period in which we for foreigners celebrating Mashnation operating in a vi- are at the threshold of critical and important General Elections ramani for the first time: “Let them cious global environment? is that Guyanese mustArgyle use the opportunity, Ms. Debbie created theirrespective of politGuyana candle, come down to Durban Park here and How are we responding to ical or racial divide, to comeespecially together as for an independent nation, the Jubilee’and 50th pick up some token[s] that they can take t h e future, especially proud of our‘Golden cultural heritage embrace that diversified back for their family and get this energetic a t the beginculturalRepublic experienceDay in ancelebration authentic, genuine manner. That is spirit before Saturday,” she said. one of the single most important elements that can lead to Ms. Debbie Argyle created the greater cohesion at a time where the ugly and unfortunate Guyana candle, especially for THE HARD WORK OF OUR ripples of potential divide exist and culture can help to the ‘Golden Jubilee’ 50th Republic Day celebration FORE-PARENTS bring that harmonisation,” he said.

Mashramani is an Arawak word Dr. Gravesande hopes that Guyanese that describes a celebration after hard work will use this day to launch our country Mrs. Karen Brathwaite shows or a job well done. Guyanese must not forget the into the future described in the motto. off her upcycled Ms. Clementine historical significance of the celebration, the birth “Republic Day 2020 must be used as Dr. Nigel Gravesande, denim designs: Marshall, drapedan in a of Guyana as a Republic. Registrar of the University Registrar of the affirmation of that independence and a necklace and banner of Guyanese University of Guyana of Guyana, Dr. Nigel while explaining ningofthe sovereignty that we cherish as we pursue a Mrs.Gravesande, Karen bracelet. She sees flags. Ms. Marshall Republic Day’sBrathwaite historical significance, said at that time ‘Decade of D e path of development, a path that is cognisant shows her upcycled fashattended the very first off her Ms. Clementine in history, Guyana still upcycled faced the heavy weight of colonialism, velopment’? of the global and domestic challenges that ion is her personal Mashramni in Linden, designs: draped in“At a increasing racialdenim political divides, and territorial Marshall, disputes with the end of we have to confront. But I’m confident as a contribution to the Upper Demerara-Berbice a necklace and banner of Guyanese Venezuela. every crop in the united people with a common cause and ‘green Guyana’ (Region Ten) in 1970 bracelet. sees we assume ourflags.

Ms. Marshall initiative “That is the context She in which Republican British West Inin the words expressed in our motto; one her upcycled fashthe very first status but it marked, in my respectful view, the attended final stride in dies… the plantocpeople, one nation, with a healthy and ion is her personal Mashramni in Linden, a long process; a journey from Independence, a journey that racy allowed the slaves to formidable destiny, that [we] will bring benefits contribution to the Upper Demerara-Berbice began with the emancipation of slaves in 1834, when our Ten) fore in have to our people if [we] embrace the notion and vision of ‘green Guyana’ (Region 1970 a celebration in which they parents overthrew…initiative the most inhuman system in the history of could rejoice, in which they could unity as [described in] the [motto,]” he said. humanity… Delinking from that colonial past, political inde- demonstrate their cultural tradition Guyanese, you have earned your right to celebrate. pendence, sovereignty, making decisions that were in the best in song, dance, art… The crop is over This year, with our celebration, we honour the sacrifices interest of Guyana became one of those most profound national and there’s a time for celebration.

And therefore, and hard work of our fore parents who laid for us the agendas that was to be embraced by all Guyanese irrespective the cultural element… Mashramani, is extremely unique to foundation of freedom, independence, unity, and a true of socio, cultural, political, or racial divide,” he said.

Guyana… Here we have a fusion of six peoples, the Indigenous cultural identity.

This young lady reciting the legend of Kanaima, an Amerindian folklore, during an Evening of National Songs, Poetry, Stories and Dance hosted at the National Cultural Centre on Tuesday, February 18

A troupe of dancers performing during an Evening of National Songs, Poetry, Stories and Dance hosted at the National Cultural Centre on Tuesday, February 18

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GUYANA-VENEZUELA CONTROVERSY COMES BEFORE ICJ MARCH 23

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E revisit the Guyana-Venezuela Border Controversy because it is an issue of the greatest importance to the very existence of Guyana but which is something that has been almost omitted from the media because of its inundation with writings on electoral politics.

The Controversy is coming before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the last week of March and is an issue which touches the lives of all Guyanese. In this offering, we will briefly recount the narrative of Controversy to the present: In the last quarter of the 19th century, Venezuela encouraged by the Munroe Doctrine which declared that the United States will oppose the founding of any new European colonies in the Americas or the expansion of the already established colonies, claimed most of the colony of British Guiana. The United States championed Venezuela’s claim against Britain and relations between these two English-speaking countries became very tense until there was even talk of war. Eventually, it was decided to refer the matter to International Arbitration.

At the Arbitration, Venezuela was represented by the United States. Both sides were represented by the best lawyers of the time and the judges or Arbitrators were equally respected for their legal acumen and integrity.

The work of the Arbitration was thorough. The National Archives of Spain, Holland and Britain were meticulously searched and the documentation recovered was voluminous. Britain’s claim was territory to the mouth of the Orinoco River and most of the present Venezuelan province of Guayana while Venezuela claimed all of British Guiana except Berbice.

The Arbitrators made their award in 1899. Britain (British Guiana) lost its claim to the territory to the mouth of the Orinoco River and its claims in what is now the Venezuelan province of Guayana while the Essequibo two-thirds of British Guiana was confirmed as belonging to Britain.

The Venezuelans were jubilant at the Award and celebrated it as a victory. They even issued postage stamps commemorating their victory.

After the Award, a joint team of Venezuelan and British surveyors painstakingly demarcated the boundary of British Guiana which was

recognised by Venezuela and internationally.

Then after 63 years, just as Britain was about to grant Independence to Guyana Venezuela rejected the Arbitral Award and claimed two-thirds of Guyana’s territory. Several motivations have been suggested for Venezuela’s action but it is clear that they did not wish Guyana to be granted Independence at that time and threatened not to recognise the new state. Britain was however determined to grant Independence and to meet Venezuela’s objections, a Mixed Commission of Britain, Venezuela and Guyana was established in 1966 to work towards the settlement of the Controversy. Guyana was then granted its Independence.

The Mixed Commission deliberated for four years (1966 - 1970) without result.

And for the next half-a-century, Guyana tried to bring closure to the issue: There was the 12-year Moratorium (1970-1982); the seven-year Process of Consultation (1983-1990); then the 27-year Good Offices Process under the aegis of the Secretary General of the United Nations (1990-2017).

If the Good Offices Process failed to bring about a solution to the Controversy, then the Secretary General was charged to identify any other methodology. The Secretary General ruled that it should be referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Guyana accepted the Secretary General’s ruling but Venezuela claimed that the Secretary General had no authority to make such a ruling and that the ICJ could not hear the case. The ICJ invited Venezuela to prove its contention, giving it half-a-year to do so until November 2019. Venezuela made no appearance or submissions.

During this period of seeking a solution, Venezuela took a number of hostile and harassing actions against Guyana: There was always a continuous threat to attack Guyana with its very superior military and such hostile activity included seizure of Ankoko island from Guyana (1966); instigating the Rupununi Rebellion to dismember the state of Guyana (1969); the Leoni Decree when Venezuela attempted to seize Guyana’s territorial sea (1968); assault on Eteringbang outpost (1970). After many other threats such as overflying Guyana’s territory and sabre rattling on the borders, they finally decided to hamper Guyana’s Oil and

Gas exploration by the seizure of seismic vessels Technics Perdana in early 2018 and Ranaform Tethys in December 2018.

The Controversy will come before the ICJ in the

last week of March when the Court will decide whether it has the authority to hear the case. Guyana’s filing seeks to obtain from the Court a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral

Award which established the boundaries between Guyana and Venezuela remains valid.

Both Government and Opposition have pledged themselves to support Guyana’s position in unity.

The settlement of the Controversy will be in both Venezuela and Guyana’s interest and would allow the two countries to cooperate and grow stronger in friendship to their mutual interest.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

Celebrate with less waste

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HAT comes to mind when you think about Mashramani? I guess fun, colours, costumes, music and of course food. One of the very sad realities is that after these celebrations, the ground is usually littered with garbage, many of which are single-use plastic items. Therefore, as we celebrate our 50th Republic anniversary dubbed Mashramani 2020, let’s reduce the use of disposable items, especially single-use plastic food boxes, cups, plates, straws, spoons, bottles etc. As we celebrate, let’s remember to be responsible not only in the disposal of waste but also in items we choose to use.

Remember - Our environment says a lot about us and when the party is over, our environment will still be here. Let’s look at some ideas to reduce waste as we celebrate – “Guyana Together; Reflect, Celebrate and Transform.”

ON THE ROUTE * Avoid the use of plastic plates, cups, forks and spoons, use re-usable paper plates, cups and take utensils from home, it will save you money. This is just as convenient and reduces waste in a big way. * Take a garbage bag along with your picnic bag and place your disposables into it. * Dispose of food wrappers in a bin or in your picnic garbage bag. * Either dispose of picnic garbage bag into bins provided OR take it home with you to your household bin. After all, you brought the stuff with you – so you can easily take it home again, only this time it would be much lighter!! * Take a reusable water bottle or container on route, avoid purchasing bottles of water. * Make fresh fruit juice from home, take it in reusable bottles. * If you must, buy large, drink bottles rather than lots of small ones -this means less waste and is cheaper.

IN THE KITCHEN * Collect excess oil and grease during this holiday cooking and cleaning in containers. Never pour oil and grease down the sink, and avoid using hot water to wash the grease away from substances. * Plan meals to avoid cooking excess food. Save any leftovers in re-useable containers for later or give to others in need. * Use reusable bags when shopping; avoid accepting single-use plastic bags. * Avoid washing food scraps such as chicken and fish bones, potato peels and celery down the drain. * Compost kitchen food scraps e.g. fruit and vegetable wastes (no meat or grease).

AT THE PARTY * Use, re-useable crockery (cups, plates, soup bowls) and cutlery (knives, forks, spoons). This saves money and reduces garbage in a big way. * Rent party furnishings rather than buying things you will only use once a year. * Choose cloth napkins and picnic blankets over the disposable type, it’s more elegant and durable. * Use rags to clean-up not paper towels.

Let’s avoid/reduce single-use plastics this Mash!

Happy 50th Republic anniversary to all Guyanese!

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Battling bad breath

HANCES are you have never been thrown out of anywhere for having bad breath, but I know a few husbands who have been banished to the couch. Bad breath is bad news for relationships.

Some people start seeing really nice guys or girls and while things were looking pretty good for them, unfortunately, they were not smelling too good.

What is bad breath anyway? It is the result of odour-causing bacteria that create waste materials in the mouth. Food particles get trapped in the creases and grooves and especially on the fissures of the tongue, and become nutrition for bacteria. And when these bacteria feed, they release gaseous waste products that cause foul-smelling odours known as volatile sulfur compounds. The odour of these gases is similar to that of rotten eggs. You probably know what that smells like!

We all have bad breath sometimes. There are two types of bad breath-transitionary and chronic. Transitionary bad breath is short-lasting and usually comes from eating foods such as garlic or onions. It can also be just a case of morning breath.

As we sleep, saliva production is decreased and this allows bacteria to proliferate;the result is morning breath. Chronic bad breath is the long-lasting type that makes people wince. I like to refer to this as the “ long-term relationship killer” and this is also called halitosis.

Let us look at common factors that can lead to both types of bad breath. If you do not remove all the tiny bits of food from your mouth and between your teeth through proper brushing and flossing, bad breath can result. Also, if you have gingivitis or gum disease, you will harbour much more bacteria than usual. If you do not scrape your tongue properly, the film of bacteria in all the little crevices of your tongue can produce an unpleasant smell. Up to 90 percent of bad breath comes from the back of your tongue! In addition to the normal accumulation of bacteria found here, millions of people suffer from post-nasal drip, sometimes without being aware of it. The mucus that drips down onto the back of the tongue is broken down by your mouth’s bacteria, causing even more odour.

Also called xerostomia, dry mouth results from lack of saliva because of age, medication, or loss of salivary glands from surgery or radiation therapy. Aside from causing bad breath, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, because saliva flow helps clean and shield the mouth and teeth. Overthe-counter artificial saliva replacement, a manmade version of what your mouth normally produces, help some patients.

Hundreds of medications, especially for diabetes, can cause dry mouth. As mentioned, you can buy artificial saliva that can help keep your mouth lubricated, or you can chew sugar-free gum.

When you diet, your body goes into survival mode called ketosis. Stomach fluids called ketones are produced when you fast or diet, giving off an odour that is not quite the same as the usual bad-breath smell, which results from just bacteria.

Smoking is also a major culprit because it dries out the mouth and leaves a foul-smelling residue. Alcohol also dries out your mouth and prevents saliva from keeping bacteria in check. A small percentage of bad-breath offenders are suffering from a serious sickness, such as liver problems, cancer, lung abscess, or tonsillitis. When all else fails to indicate a cause for bad breath, you should consult a physician.

Finally, having bad breath is not like having body odour. You cannot just take a shower and change your clothes and it goes away. It requires consultation with your dentist, diligent oral care and a change in lifestyle.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

February 23, 2020

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student,

H

appy New Year!

Thanks, God A l m i g h t y, f o r spared life. So,

your CXC examinations are now upon you and you are as focused as you have practised yourself to be.

Now, the best of performance ever under examination conditions is wished

for you. For those still with bothersome thoughts, say to yourself “Stop.” Reinforce this command with any physical movement and try to be consistent with it. Be wise; turn around negative

self-statements. Let perseverance continue to be your watchword.

Love you.

IMPROVING YOUR WRITING Third Person Description The guard came to the prison shoe-shop, where Jimmy Valentine was assiduously stitching uppers, and escorted him to the front office. There the warden handed Jimmy his pardon, which had been signed that morning by the governor.

Jimmy took it in a tired kind of way. He had served nearly ten months for a four-year sentence. He had expected to stay only about three months, at the longest. When a man with as many friends on the outside as Jimmy Valentine had, is received in the “stir,” it is hardly worthwhile to cut his hair.

“Now Valentine,” said the warden, “you’ll go out in the morning. Brace up, and make a man of yourself.

You’re not a bad fellow at heart. Stop cracking safes, and live straight.”

“Me?” said Jimmy, in surprise. “Why, I never cracked a safe in my life.”

“Oh, no,” laughed the warden. “Of course not.

Let’s see, now. How was it you happened to get sent up on that Springfield job?” ….

“Take him back, Cronin,” smiled the warden, “and fix him up with outgoing clothes.

Unlock him at seven in the morning, and let him come to the bullpen.

Better think over my advice, Valentine.” …. …. Valentine, 9762, was chronicled on the books “Pardoned by Governor,” and Mr. James Valentine walked out into the sunshine. …. …. Jimmy headed straight for a restaurant [after being attended to next morning]. From there he proceeded leisurely to the depot and boarded his train. Three hours set him down in a little town near the state line. He went to the café of one Mike Dolan and shook hands with Mike, who was alone behind the bar.

“Sorry we couldn’t make it sooner, Jimmy, me boy,” said Mike. “But we had that protest from Springfield to buck against, and the governor nearly baulked. Feeling all right?”

“Fine,” said Jimmy. “Got my key?” ….

He got his key and went upstairs. ….

Pulling out from against the wall a folding-bed, Jimmy slid back a panel in the wall and dragged out a dust-covered suitcase. He opened this and gazed fondly at the finest set of burglar’s tools in the East. It was a complete set, made of specially tempered steel, the latest designs in drills, punches, braces and bits, jimmies, clamps, ad augers, with two or three novelties invented by Jimmy himself, in which he took pride. ….

(Taken from “A Retrieved Reformation” by O. Henry) LOOKING AT THE STORY 1. Writer’s language Use: Pondering Points A.. There are some key points alluded to by the writer. In each case, to what idea can you see the writer directing the reader’s thoughts? a) “there the guard handed Jimmy his pardon” b) “He had expected to stay only about three months, at the longest.” c) “Brace up; and make a man of yourself.” d) “Me?” said Jimmy in surprise. “Why, I never cracked a safe in my life.” e) “Valentine, 9762, was chronicled on the books “Pardoned by Governor,” f) “two or three novelties invented by Jimmy himself, in which he took pride.”

B.. a) What details in the story reveal it is from an earlier time? b) Based upon Jimmy’s attitude, do you predict he will take the warden’s advice? Why or why not? c) Complete the abridged story by working on the plot to make Jimmy turn his life around for the better by experiencing a worthwhile friendship.

2. Literary Analysis: Plot Plot is the sequence of related events. Identify the following story parts: a) Exposition: Find basic information about the characters and situation. b) Conflict: Identify the struggle between opposing forces. c) Rising Action: What events increase the tension? d) Climax: Find the high point (the point at which the eventual outcome will be revealed). e) Falling Action: Can you find events that follow the climax? f) Resolution: Is the outcome recorded here?

3. Story Prediction:

Reader Interest When we speak about story prediction, we speak about making informed guesses about what will happen next based on the story details and our own experience. All predictions should be supported by clues that hint at what will happen next.

Read stories sensitively; it is then you will notice that they may include details that could support predictions of more than one outcome. Some stories keep you guessing in order to hold your interest and to build suspense.

As you pursue good writing, you will eventually inculcate the skill of holding reader interest and building suspense.

READING Reading for Details Before the mid-1800s, most families sewed clothes by hand. It took about fourteen hours to sew one shirt.

Then, in 1845, Elias Howe invented his sewing machine.

By 1877, there were halfa-million sewing machines in the United States. With a sewing machine, a person could make a shirt in only one hour. Clothes could now be mass-produced and sold in stores.

Some people think the telephone, or the gasoline engine is the invention that most changed people’s lives.

I think the sewing machine is the most important because it freed people from the endless drudgery of sewing and gave ordinary people choices in what to wear. Free time and pride in their appearance gave people more confidence and more opportunities to achieve their dreams.

Questions 1. What kind of details establishes the author’s purpose in the first paragraph of the passage?

A.. facts B.. reasons C.. images D.. characters 2. What is the author’s main purpose in the first paragraph?

A.. to entertain B.. to inform C.. to complain D.. to persuade 3. What do you determine is the author’s purpose in the second paragraph?

A.. to entertain B.. to inform C.. to complain D.. to persuade.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― February 23, 2020

Tamarind Punch

Ingredients √ 1 bottle tamarind syrup √ 1/2 pt water √ 1/4 pt rim √ sugar to taste (if necessary) √ dash of bitters √ 2 bottles cream soda √ pieces of ice

Instructions ■ Mix the syrup, water, and rum.

■ Add sugar, if necessary, and a dash of bitters.

■ Immediately before serving, add ■ cream soda.

■ Add a solid piece of ice and serve.

■ Makes 6-8 glasses

guyanesepride.com

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