Guyana Chronicle E-Paper PepperPot 10-06-2019

Sunday, October 6, 2019

Breast Cancer does not affect just women GCF’s Bibi Hassan wants men and women to get screened GCF’s founder, Bibi Hassan decorates a tree on Camp Street (Carl Croker photo)

II

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

The forever changing times

By Francis Quamina Farrier

AS Guyana is about to make a quantum leap ‘From Rags to Riches’, let us take a glance in the rearview mirror of our country’s history and some of the things we no longer do, or do differently.

Throughout history, things have changed in every society in the world, and Guyana is no different. So let us juxtapose the past with the present; the young with the matured and the present with the future. As we proceed, let us make every effort not to be lamenting about “The Good old Days”, or about the way the older generation did things differently than the way of the present generation. Let

us agree to look only at some of the things we did in British Guiana, if you were already around at that time, and which are no longer done in Guyana or done differently. So let us get things going.

When last have you seen a Goat Race in Guyana? Just in case you are too young to recall, yes, there used to be many exciting goat racing events in Guyana. The last one I saw was at the Georgetown Cricket Club Ground in Georgetown. It was very entertaining and showed that even if the goats were fast on their four legs the human runners who guided them from behind with cords attached to the goats, had to be equally fast on their two legs. Cooperation - as in “The Cooperative

Young skaters on the Merriman Mall in Georgetown in 2018 (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

Republic of Guyana”. The People and the Government need to be equally fast together at whatever are the National Objectives.

This example in no way suggests that one or the other are goats. The Big Deal right now is “Oil and Gas”; something which we had some knowledge of, way back in colonial times. Since I was a young fellow, there was talk that British Guiana has oil and that if we tapped into our oil wells, Venezuela will have much less since the Guiana basin is much lower and the oil will keep running down to us. It has taken over 70 years for us to begin exploration and extraction and find our place in the economic sun.

Well, here we are with EXXONMOBIL about to commence extracting. Have you ever taken a quiet moment and wondered what Guyana would be like by the year 2045? I have already put out an open suggestion that there should be an official Essay Writing Competition for students of Primary and Secondary Schools. The topic should be, “In what way would you like to see the oil and gas revenue spent for the first five years?”

Now, forward to the past; When last have you enjoyed a Dog Show? I mean a real dog show with prizes up for grabs. Will Dog Shows, like Hat Shows, be held in Guyana again? At those shows, owners would bring their four-legged companions to vie for the Top Prizes in keenly contested “Doggie Beauty Pageants”. If you are too young to have experienced such shows and how keen were the competitions, then just think of human Beauty Pageants and how keenly contested they are. Oh, for those “Doggie Competitions” of times gone by! My own favourite doggie was owned by Justice Horace Mitchell of the Guyana High Court. There he used to be, not judging, but having his beautiful dog judged.

And when last have you seen a cross-country race? Especially one in which marathon greats such as Moses Dwarka and Harry Prowell from the lower East Coast Demerara ran cross-country bare-feet? The two champions were working-class young East Indian men who were celebrities from Backdam to Brickdam. Great Guyanese athletes who dominated the long-distance cross-country tracks as they brought joy into the lives of their admirers. So when last was there a dray cart race in Guyana, when the stakes were high and the popularity was even higher? The last dray cart race I witnessed was many years ago. It was an illegal event on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown. The races were started at the western end of Homestretch Avenue, at the 1763 Monument and concluded at the National Cultural Centre - the entire length of Homestretch Avenue.

That last dray cart race, which was on a Sunday morning, came to an abrupt end compliments of the police. Still very vivid in my mind is one dray cart with about a dozen men and five boys going by, probably heading for Campbellville. All onboard were looking very angry and dejected. There was something in the faces of those men; anger and humiliation combined. A few days after that never-forgotten Sunday morning, I took my observation to a powerful government official of the day, recommending that Dray Cart Racing should be considered as a National Sport and worthy of LEGAL Status. I had previously garnered the opinions of some dray cart operators who were on Lombard Street. They suggested that all the necessary safety measures could be

Eighteen-year-old Francis Q. Farrier skating on the Water Street pavement in Georgetown from Fogarty’s to Bookers (Guyana Stores) - (Photo from 1956) put in place for professional dray cart racing.

Homestretch Avenue could be closed off to regular traffic for a specific period to allow the racers to enjoy their simple lives as well as entertainment for citizens and visitors. It was even recommended that the competing horses be given medical checks before entering the races. “Dray cart Racing could be a Tourist attraction,” said one of the men.

Another popular sport back in the day was Boxing, which seems to be a waning sport here in Guyana in more recent years. But back in the day, there were many great Guyanese Boxers such as Cliff Anderson who brought glory to British Guiana as he fought in his native country and foreign places. Cliff Anderson was adored by his thousands of fans.

He was a gentleman boxer, and I say this from knowing him personally. The National Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown bears his name. Now let us discuss river swims which were very popular in this the “Land of Many Waters”. A high percentage of citizens of British Guiana swam. Almost everyone who lives at Bartica is a swimmer and swim where the waters of the Mazaruni and Essequibo River meet. In Georgetown, there used to be those who swam across the Demerara River from Georgetown to Vreeden-Hoop which is just about one mile wide. I once swam across the Demerara River- from Wismar to Mackenzie, which is just about 100 yards wide at that point.

To add a little personal boast; very few Guyanese have swum the Essequibo River as I have been fortunate to have done; from Suddie at the mouth of that mighty river, to Bartica 50 miles further south and as far south as Gunn’s Strip where the Wai Wai Nation of Indigenous Guyanese reside and which is hundreds of miles from the mouth of the Turn to page III ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Breast Cancer does not affect just women

III

–– GCF’s Bibi Hassan wants men and women to get screened

By Wendella Davidson

BREAST cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer in women. Global statistics show that about one in every eight females is likely to get breast cancer at some point.

While it is rare in men (one in every 1,000 men will develop the disease), Founder of the Guyana Cancer Foundation (GCF), Bibi Hassan encourages both men and women to get screened.

The good news is most persons can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram is the screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually during the month of October when several organisations, like the GCF, seek to further, raise awareness about breast cancer and the importance of being tested to individuals, families and communities.

The GCF, WHICH was registered in 2016, is located at Lot 9 Sheriff Street & Third Avenue, Subryanville. It is a non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) that is committed to raising funds and providing initiatives to help in the battle against cancer. Speaking with the Pepperpot Magazine, the founder said that some 14 years ago she joined the campaign in the fight against cancer while serving as the treasurer of the Avon Community Health Fund.

But she got the impetus to intensify the fight when in 2013 her mother was diagnosed with Stage Two breast cancer and Bibi Hassan was daily by her side as the caregiver. Her mom is now cancer-free but Bibi Hassan continues to relentlessly carry on the fight.

Committed to the cause, the GCF has

Founder of the Guyana Cancer Foundation (GCF) Bibi Saeedah Akhtar Hassan organised several fund-raising events and volunteer services, targeting low income and uninsured area communities. Through the volunteer services, they have been offering clinical breast examination, cervical cancer/ HPV screening, glucose and cholesterol testing and free counselling, prostate cancer screening, blood pressure, and group sessions for cancer survivors and fighters.

Through early detection, education, awareness and free screening the GCF has been providing help and inspiring hope in

those affected by cancer and too, seeking to reintegrate cancer survivors back into society while also widening support system in respective communities.

The GCF, during its outreaches, collaborates with the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Medical Relief Council and Cheddi Jagan Dental Centre, and with assistance from volunteer doctors and nurse, have seen countless persons suffering from a range of illnesses such as colon, breast, brain throat, prostate and

cervical and brain cancer.

Also during the outreaches, some persons have been given referrals to the Guyana Cancer Institute or the Oncology Department at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for further medical attention.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2019, Hassan encourages both men and women to get screened. The GCF will in addition to participating in the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT’s `Pinktober’ active, also continue its routine outreaches and screening.

On Thursday the GCF held its annual tree wrapping exercise, which saw its members and volunteers, decorating all of the trees lining the Camp Street Avenue, between Lamaha and Church Streets with pink sashes emblazoned with the words `Get Screened for Cancer Today’. Today, a church service is scheduled to be held at Christ Church, followed by No Bra Day on October 13, in support of both men and women who have lost their breast from cancer. October 18 will be observed as International Day of Wear it Pink, and on the same day will also celebrate National Mammography Day. As the name of the latter observance suggests, Hassan says she is in the process of collaborating with the Dr Balwant Singh Hospital to have about 100 persons tested on that day. Persons desirous of benefitting from the service will, however, need to make contact with the GCF. On Saturday, October 26, 2019, the GCF with its members and 23 cancer survivors will participate in the popular `Pinktober’ 5k or 10k Cancer Walk and Run, an activity that will see hundreds of persons, some with children in tow, undertaking the distance in recognition of cancer awareness.

The forever changing ... ►►► From page II

Essequibo River.

There was a time when skating was very popular in Georgetown during my teen years.

It was so popular that a skating rink was constructed on what was later known as Merriman Mall, named for Georgetown Mayor Claude Merriman who founded the Merriman Funeral Home. That Skating Rink was for the use by the young skaters of Georgetown, myself included, who skated on pavements all over the city. That (former) Skating Rink is located between Church Street and North Road, and Orange Walk and Cummings Street in Georgetown. In more recent years, that skating rink is being used as an extension of the Bourda Market where fruits and vegetables are sold. Some of the present-day skaters of Georgetown use the paved section of the Merriman Mall between Cummings and Light Streets.

By-the-Way, we no longer say, “By-

the-Way”. We say “BTW”. Well, we type that on our Facebook messages. Remember, life is about CHANGE, such as the way we now ‘tow’ on a bicycle seated astride on the bar with each leg on the opposite side. When last have you seen someone riding a bicycle at night with a headlight or a taillight as was the case during Colonial Times, when the need for such accessories on a bicycle was mandatory and the Law? Yes, there is constant and no one has a light on their bicycles at night, for to do so one would be considered a nuisance. Consider Climate Change too, for example. Elders here in Guyana can tell you that it NEVER rained in British Guiana during the month of August. NEVER, since it was the month for school outings, Sunday School picnics and boat outings. Those elders can tell you that 53 years ago, British Guiana became politically independent and changed to Guyana. They may even go on to tell you how there were an extended discussion and

Public Transportation in British Guiana before the minibuses replaced them in Guyana. debate about the change in the spelling of the word “Guiana” to “Guyana”. There was the change from trains and large wooden buses, to the swifter minibuses for general public transportation.

One can now cross the Demerara and Berbice Rivers by large bridges and not only by ferry boats.

CHANGE There are hundreds of ongoing changes

in our Beautiful Guyana since Independence; some are welcomed while others are not.

However, there are those things which are as perennial as the grass and should never change.

Good manners. Love and respect for our fellow citizens. Being patriotic and dedicating our energies towards the happiness and prosperity of our beautiful Guyana; Our Motherland.

IV

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Visual Arts Expressions

The differently-abled students displaying their paintings “TO draw, you must close your eyes and sing.” Pablo Picasso.

THIS quote resonated with me after I had the privilege of working with differently-abled students just over a week ago. On September 27, 2019, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Unit and the Special Education Needs (SEN) Unit of the Ministry of Education hosted a day of Visual Arts Expressions for students with disabilities. I worked along with three trained art teachers to facilitate the painting exercise. With the assistance of the teachers from the various institutions, which included the Unit for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Diamond Special Needs School, the Beterverwagting SEN Centre, Schoonord Learning Centre for Diverse Needs, Resource Unit for SEN Learners Linden, and the David Rose Special School, we worked with 29 students. I supervised the works of seven students, three of whom were blind and the remaining four had varying disabilities.

There was one student who has left a lasting impression on me. Her name is

Angelisa and she is legally blind. Angelisa loves to sing and listen to music.

Despite her inability to see, Angelisa was quite enthusiastic about completing the assigned task. I introduced her to the donkey easel by asking if she knew anything about horses or donkeys. She responded in the negative. Then it hit me she had never felt or seen a horse. Oh, the little things we take for granted! My task was harder than I had anticipated. I continued introduction of the materials by allowing her to feel each object, hoping she would be able to identify them.

She felt the 50x60cm canvas and to my surprise, said it was small. As she felt the foam stickers, she was able to identify the letters quickly, but it was my job to identify the objects. As an artist, it’s hard for me to imagine myself drawing with my eyes closed, yet I expected these children to do it. Quite ironic.

While reflecting, I understood why there was some degree of panic when the teachers who accompanied the students, realised that it was a painting exercise. One teacher approached me and asked: “How do you expect the

blind students to paint?” I responded with certainty: “they will paint.” I then explained that they would be using a collage technique to add texture to their paintings, thus including an element of touch. This was easier said than done. And the experience humbled me. I found myself saying: “you should see your work,” then being flooded with guilt because it seemed so insensitive. Angelisa just smiled. I guess she realised that this was a whole new experience for me.

As an artist, my work isn’t complete until I say it is, and here I was looking at a blind child’s work and having the audacity to tell her when her painting was finished.

At one point I told Angelisa that her painting was complete. I then came up with what I thought was a brilliant idea.

We would put her handprint on the painting. But my girl Angelisa wanted more. She wanted her signature on the painting. Like every other artist, her signature meant that she was the creator of the painting. She asked: “if I write my name with a pencil, will I feel it?” I

naively responded “yes.” But after she wrote the first letter of her name, she realised that she couldn’t feel the letter.

It was at that moment I realised how priceless the gift of sight is. I managed to redeem myself by using foam to cut the letters of her name and she pasted them on the canvas. After her name was placed on the canvas, I could tell by her reaction that she was satisfied, and so was I. The day of Visual Arts Expression for the differently-abled was quite a rewarding experience for me. Differently-abled emphasises the fact that many people with disabilities are quite capable of accomplishing various tasks.

However, their method may be different, and it may also take longer than people without disability. Types of disability include blindness, low vision, hearing impairment, locomotor disability, mental retardation and mental illness.

The day of visual arts expression for the differently-abled was a brilliant initiative. I commend the team within the Ministry of Education for this activity.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

V

Headaches and dental-related pain WHAT most people, physicians included, do not realise is that a tremendous number of headaches are related to the teeth.

In my experience as a dental surgeon, as much as about 85 percent of all head pain has been directly attributable to problems in the teeth and jaw, especially when new fillings, new dentures or crowns are placed- and is readily alleviated with dental treatment.

Headaches have practically become a national pastime; they are the seventh leading complaint in outpatient medical care in Guyana. During the past year, nearly 90 percent of men and 95 percent of women have had at least one headache. An estimated 120,000 Guyanese suffer some form of severe headache; they make tens of thousands of outpatient visits to physicians every year for this condition. Thousands suffer from migraine – about 12 percent of our population.

When a friend told me that she had been getting headaches nearly every day for several years, I immediately suspected a problem with her teeth. Sure enough her wisdom teeth

were impacted. Since she never had specific problems with them, she did not know that they needed to come out. And once they were removed? You guessed it – 99 percent of her headaches have completely vanished.

She does still report an occasional headache, but we have both concluded that once her three kids are a bit older, those will probably miraculously vanish!

The result of stress, tension headaches are the most common, afflicting as many as 75 percent of all headache sufferers. Ninety percent of all adults have had a tension headache, says the American Council for Headaches.

Tension headaches are usually a steady ache rather than a throbbing pain; they affect both sides of the head. I believe psychological factors have been greatly overemphasised as a cause of tension headaches.

You might think that the only way to treat a tension headache would be to reduce the amount of tension or learn how to “relax” more, but that is not always possible or even easily accomplished. It is also not only the answer.

Many times, people under stress will clench or grind their teeth, which is frequently the result of a misaligned bite. As a result, the tension headache is almost always accompanied by spasms of the muscles which help to open and close the jaw. To evaluate whether the headaches are bite-related, a small mould can be made fitting over the upper front teeth, which the patient wears for several days. Often, the headaches stop entirely or diminish greatly. It is then known that a dentist can go ahead and make minor, but important adjustments to reshape the teeth so the patient can have long-lasting relief. When the bite is corrected, the strain is taken off the muscles which are free to relax and heal, while the patient continues to feel better and better.

TMD – formerly known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint) syndrome is simply a dramatic extension of the classic tension headache. It is named for the Temporomandibular joint which is in front of the ear where the lower jaw rests on the skull bone socket.

Often related to clenching and misaligned bite, over time the TMD syndrome can result

in extreme spasms and trauma to the muscles not only in the jaw but down the neck and shoulders. In many cases, even the back muscles are affected.

Between the top of the lower jaw, called the condyle, and the skull is a cartilaginous disc. This serves as a cushion as on condyle moves forward and down when the mouth is opening. If this gets displaced slightly, there will occur a click or pop upon opening the mouth; sometimes the jaw may even lock.

Some symptoms of TMD include dizziness, headaches, migraines, facial pain, tooth pain, pain down the arms into the fingers, lack of jaw opening, and pain upon jaw movement, ringing in the ears, grinding of the teeth and chronic neck and backache.

Since the site the of Temporomandibular Joint is at the intersection of three major energy meridians relating to the stomach, endocrine system and small intestines, relief of TMD can spark a tremendous healing process in the whole body, relieving symptoms like stomach problems, chest pains and cold extremities.

Staying focused and driven Chavez Edwards and following his dream of becoming a Medex

By MARISSA V. FOSTER

CHAVEZ Edwards was born in a small Indigenous community called Kaburi, Cuyuni-Mazaruni, (Region Seven), located 72 miles from Bartica.

The son of two humble parents from the Akawaio and Patamona tribes, at the time of Chavez’s birth he was the eighth child in the family.

Due to his father’s work, his family moved from Kaburi to Kamarang within the same region—he was about the age of four at this time. Growing up in the highland regions of our beautiful country was quite fun and exciting. You manage to live a simple, healthy and satisfying life as expressed by Chavez. Farming, fishing and hunting were all parts of their everyday life and all these activities were under the full supervision of his conscientious parents.

His parents played an important role in ensuring

that each of their children had a well-rounded educational background. During his time in secondary school, Chavez realized that he developed a passion to care for those in need. He could not bear having to see his friends or classmates not feeling well.

As such, he would offer to accompany them along with the house parent to seek medical care at the health post.

This, of course, was allowed because of his many leadership posts held during that time. His many visits to the health facility invoked an interest in the study of why diseases happen the way they do and how that affects the functions of the human body.

Being there for someone in need can make a difference in peoples’ lives, by helping to alleviate pain and suffering.

It makes Chavez feel quite grateful, he said.

There are not many job opportunities in his community. After completing his

secondary education in 2004, with passes in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) he volunteered his services as a teacher at the secondary school for a few months—awaiting response from the Teaching Service Commission which came shortly after. During his two years as a teacher, he worked between Kamarang Primary School and Waramadong Secondary School. Yet still, during his time teaching, he yearned to be in the medical field. Chavez filled two application forms; one for the Registered Nurse programme and one for the Medex Training programme in mid-2006.

Deservingly, his application was successful for the Medex programme. In September 2006, Chavez resigned as a teacher to pursue his dream in the medical field. This programme was first of its kind and was called “the new pathway” which catered for students out of secondary

school with passes in five subjects and had no medical background. For the next four years, Chavez underwent rigorous training at the Medex Training School in Georgetown. This pilot programme saw 26 students completing the programme and graduated in 2010.

After graduation, he was sent back home to serve. He worked at the Bartica Hospital and the Bartica Health Centre for one year, then for the next four years at the Waramadong Health Post in Waramadong. After completing his contractual agreement, he decided to venture out further, this time in the private sector from 20162018. During that period, his job made him travel out of his beloved community of Kamarang. Chavez was still determined and wanted to expand his horizons, accepting a new working environment and challenges, he left the private sector in August 2018

to take up the post as Medex at the University of Guyana, Berbice Campus, Tain.

This post is where he still serves presently. Working as a Medex for him included challenges of travelling, gaining insight into the different culture and practices of the Guyanese population and learning to accept how diverse we are as a people.

The English language is not his ‘mother-tongue’ and he is still learning to speak and write properly and by practice, he will eventually overcome that challenge, he said. Chavez is still holding on to his dream of one day becoming a medical doctor.

He realised that his journey to where he what he wants to accomplish is not done. The hurdles of his journey thus far have been a lot and quite tough but at the same time, they made him resolute. If by chance there is a scholarship available, by the government or not, he will gladly accept

Medex of the University of Guyana Berbice Campus, Chavez Edwards so he can move to the next step in his career and further his self-development.

This young man with a passion for medical care will always encourage people like himself, who came from humble beginnings to always take their education seriously! Chavez explained that you should also, “listen to your parents and elders who offer guidance and encouragement; Turn to page VIII►►►

VI

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Alva sets his goals high The road to becoming a seasoned journalist

By Wendella Davidson EDUCATION was key in Alva Solomon’s household while growing up, and today he holds the same principles as a family man, even as he sets his goal to one day hold a managerial position at his present workplace and to manage his own business.

Alva was born in the city but with both his parents, Malcolm and Valerie Solomon being teachers at Mabaruma, he grew up at Hosororo Hill in the North West District.

He also attended the Hosororo Primary up to Primary Three, now renamed Grade Five.

When his parents travelled to the city to further their studies, he travelled with them as he was the eldest of three children. He began his education in the city by attending the Tucville Primary School where his mother was then attached, while his father taught at the Campbellville Secondary School.

His younger siblings, Morris and Vaughn, remained in Mabaruma with their paternal grandmother.

Alva recalled initially finding the relocation to the city difficult for him to adjust to the way of life of the people, the culture, and food. It took him about two months to settle in, stating that the hardest adjustment was for him to attend school as he was shy and nervous.

Being young, he had two chances to write the Common Entrance Examination now called the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). At his first sitting, he was placed at Central High School, but according to him, his parent allowed him to re-sit the exam in 1995, which saw him being awarded a place at Queen’s College (QC).

The achievement was quite a surprise for both him and his family, for while they expected him to do well, they did not expect Queen’s College from a child transferring from a hinterland school to the city in such a short space of time.

Alva continued at QC until the Sixth Form, where he wrote and was successful at the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) exam.

While taking a one-year break from serious studies, Alva said he took the opportunity to perfect his skills in one of his hobbies --cooking. He however had difficulty preparing stews and curry.

By then, too, his family who had shared accommodation with a relative when they

Alva riding along the roadway at Annai

moved to the city, was able to move into an apartment of their own and, were also able to send for his two younger siblings. When Morris and Vaughn later wrote the National Grade Six Examination, they were awarded Saint Stanislaus and Bishop’s High Schools, respectively.

Morris is now an engineer and Vaughn, a chemist.

ADVANCING HIS CAREER Alva, who during the break had completed a number of computer courses, was back into the work mode and had applied to a number of companies.

He landed a job as an air traffic control assistant at the then Civil Aviation Department and also functioned as an aeronautical

and creative mind, posited that his interest in local and international news helped him to become a rounded journalist in just under five years, adding that Stabroek News having discovered his potential, exposed him to every beat area and the job allowed him to do a lot of travelling.

He remembered with just nine months in the newsroom at Stabroek News, he travelled to Belgium in western Europe to participate in an agriculture and rural affairs conference that attracted participants who were experts in the field of agriculture; that made him feel honoured.

Alva is of mixed ancestry-- Indian, Amerindian and Chinese through paternal links and African through his maternal lineage in the villages of Buxton and Victoria. He

Alva Solomon, Online Editor/Assistant Editor at the Guyana Chronicle

Alva Testing his skills with an arrow and bow at Wowetta Village in the North Rupununi information officer.

Alva opined that maybe being exposed to travelling in aircraft from a tender age-- as the fastest mode out of the hinterland was by aircraft-- was the reason he developed an interest in aviation.

He said as a young man with an urge to continue studying, he enrolled and began classes in Public Management. He subsequently got married and the family increased with the birth of a son, but Alva said he found it difficult to juggle his job, studying and family life due to his working hours, so after five years he parted ways with the Civil Aviation Department.

In the meantime, he utilised his time helping out on the family farm on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

JOURNALISM With a penchant for writing, which he developed while attending Queen’s.

College, Alva said he applied for a job at Stabroek News as a proofreader, which he opined would have given him enough time with his young family.

He recalled the editor-in-chief testing his writing skill in the newsroom by sending him on his first assignment: the launch of a snackette by the Mother’s Union and when the story was published with his byline, Alva said he probably talked about it for almost a week. “ I was elated, having gotten a story published in the newspapers with my byline, I must have spoken about it for almost a week, “ he said.

Alva who says he has an imaginative

stated that the family also inherited the Carib, Warrau and Arawak tribes in Region One (Barima-Waini).

Alva said it was because of his knowledge of the Indigenous peoples’ way of life and culture being familiar with the region that he was able to bring the people of the hinterland to the city through his many village stories.

But he said, while all of the travelling and interaction in the interior was newsworthy and beneficial, unfortunately, it took a serious toll on his family life, so he called it quits and returned to studying. A worst-case scenario he recalled was a terrifying incident involving his daughter, who was just about five years old at the time. There was a protest at the village of Agricola that saw some people burning tyres and blocking the main road.

Residing at Farm Village, he was trapped in the city and spent the night at his mother’s residence in South Ruimveldt, while his family, daughter included, viewed the entire scene on television.

The following day Alva said he visited his daughter at the Peter’s Hall Primary School where she was a student to ensure that she was okay. However, later in the day, someone who knew the family saw the daughter walking home by herself and called him.

The child had explained that she was fearful of being left stranded on the road.

EXPLORING FURTHER Upon leaving Stabroek News, Alva worked as a freelance journalist with Demerara Waves, an online news outfit whilst reading for a Diploma then a Degree in Communication Studies at the Univer-

sity of Guyana. He also helped out on the family farm.

In 2015, Alva began working with the Guyana Chronicle where presently he holds the position of Online Editor/Assistant Editor, where he was again able to report extensively on hinterland affairs, including acts of injustice against Indigenous peoples.

It was through Alva’s investigative insights that in 2016 the Venezuelan migrant issue at the remote Indigenous villages of Whitewater, and the cross-border trading at Gagah Landing were revealed.

With the intervention of the government in 2018, Gagah Landing has been upgraded from a deserted place with malnourished-looking people with no food and water to a small village.

It was while at Aishalton, an Indigenous village in the Rupununi savannah, some 60 miles South-east of Lethem, for the launch of Radio Aishalton, that Alva’s thirst peaked to learn some of the Indigenous languages, none of which he can speak.

Radio Aishalton, which is powered by solar energy, seeks to bridge the communication divide between the peoples of the hinterland, Alva recalled being impressed when the nine languages of the Indigenous peoples were celebrated at the launch, with nine persons speaking in the language of their respective tribe.

He credited the government through President Granger’s 5Bs initiative, which allows students of the hinterland to fully develop their potential, thus allowing them to perform better.

On this note, he reminded that hinterland students made their mark at the 2019 Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC). Within the field of top performers is a young boy who hails from Karaburi Primary School in Region One (Barima-Waini).

There is too, the Hinterland Scholarship Initiative which was developed to assist and motivate students to realise their educational, social and cultural potential, with students from the hinterland being provided with assistance to further their education.

Additionally, there is the recently commissioned $186M-plus Tertiary Students Dormitory, which seeks to reduce the disparities between the hinterland and coastland through education.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

VII

The pink month of October WHILE some people may be preparing for Halloween or others may be busy with mid-semester projects and even the ‘Virgo-Libra’ season for birthdays—the month of October is also well known as being the month of pink! That’s

right, if you didn’t know, October is known as the Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast cancer is perhaps the most popular cancer in women and as such, this month is used to either educate others on the signs

and cause/effects of breast cancer, raise funds for research and cancer organisations or to help give a sense of hope to existing breast cancer patients. Also, in the third week of October, it is known as Male Breast Cancer Week. Although it is

rare, it is still important that we include it the month’s activities.

You must do monthly or even weekly breast self-examinations on our breasts to understand and know what it feels like. By doing so, we become familiar with it and if by chance there are any changes, drastic or not, we’ll be able to recognise them.

Any new lump on the breast or armpits, change in size or shape, sudden ingrowth of nipples, irritation/rashes/ scaly skin or discharge from nipples may all be signs of breast cancer and should be checked out by a doctor -- ASAP. While it is currently impossible to say what the actual causes of breast cancer or any cancer may be, there are still a few factors that we should take into considerations as it relates to the likelihood of it happening. 1. Age: eight in 10 women over the age of 50 years develop breast cancer and as such, should do regular screenings and check-ups with their doctors. 2. Family history of breast cancer: having two

Staying focused ... ►►► From page V

be persistent in completing task undertaken; be humble and never forget where you have come from. I will forever be proud to be an Indigenous [person], it means that we too like other persons in the land have a voice, a voice that speaks of conservation, a language that identifies who we are; a history that needs to be shared with the rest of the world, we are a people who are strong will and determined. Staying humble has helped me a long way.”

He hopes his story and journey can inspire and be a motivation for all other Indigenous children living on the outskirts of the coast of Guyana. Nothing is impossible, not even for an Indigenous!

Chavez Edwards and his father (from the Akawaio tribe) and his mother (from the Patamona tribe).

or more close family members (sister, mother, aunt, daughter, grandmother) with breast or ovarian cancer increases your chances of having it too. 3. Hormones: sometimes, the female hormone known as oestrogen can stimulate the growth of cancer cells. If by chance your body is exposed to a high level of this hormone, your chances may slightly increase. It is also important to note that using the contraceptive pill may increase your chance of breast cancer, but its effect stops after 10 years of not using the pill. 4. Unhealthy physical lifestyle: being obese, overweight and using excessive amounts of alcohol may also increase your risks of having breast cancer.

Now that you are aware of all the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, what will you do? Can you prevent it from happening?

Maybe you can. You can firstly start by having frequent mammograms (medical breast examinations), especially when you’re over the age of 40. Also, maintaining a healthy diet and less intake of alcohol, breastfeeding your child/ children and even mastectomies are ways of preventing breast cancer. Knowing someone close who has breast cancer and as well as living with it can be challenging alike. Take a trusted friend or professional worker, communicate/network with other persons who may have or know someone with breast cancer as well, do as much personal research as you can about the topic and most importantly, prioritise time and love/care

for yourself. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is no stranger to us Guyanese.

Initiatives such as ‘Pinktober’ launched in 2017 by the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company, breast cancer talks done by the Ministry of Public Health, or even as simple as wearing a pink ribbon in every day of October helps to raise awareness and give hope to all affected.

The ribbon for breast cancer has its own meaning to all. For some it may be a reminder of the struggle of overcoming breast cancer, for others it may mean a symbol of loss for a loved one and it may even hold the meaning of hope. Whatever the case may be, I sure hope all you reading this join in wearing a pink ribbon to show your support to those affected. I also want breast cancer survivors to remember that this does not make you less female, especially those with mastectomies done—it should not affect your sexual, physical and even emotional thoughts of yourself. Be sure to join hands with those affected by breast cancer this month through programmes and events that might be happening near you. “A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows it is on the journey that she will become strong” words beautifully pieced together by Luke Easter.

As we celebrate this month of pink—may we support the fighters, admire the survivors, honour the taken and most importantly, never give up on HOPE!

ocus F VIII

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

on the Village

Unity-Lancaster, the villages of farmers and fishermen

By Michel Outridge

THIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the sleepy villages of Unity and Lancaster – often considered as one village because of their proximity -- which are located on the East Coast Demerara.

Located at the mouth of the Mahaica River, Unity- Lancaster is home to about 2,000 residents, who are mostly farmers and fishermen.

The people there reside in these Sisters’ villages as one big family and most are very accommodating and friendly.

The Mahaica river provides water for farming. The Mahaica Hospital, which includes Guyana’s only leprosy institution,

He pointed out that the country life is good. At age 69, he pays taxes and the drains in the village are maintained and the roads are in good condition still.

The Pepperpot Magazine also met Thribhawan Persaud, who is back in Guyana for the past six months, and was enjoying the cool Atlantic breeze from his mother’s verandah.

He is back home after spending 38 years abroad, is here to stay and has gotten used to the quiet country life.

“From then to now, I see a lot of changes but there is room for improvement. Guyana is home so I am here to relax. I love my country and am here for the ‘good life’,” Persaud said.

Now retired, he stated that when he left Guyana he was a schoolboy. He went into accounting overseas and related that

it is good to be back.

Persaud stated that there is need for the utility company to visit Unity and clear the vines that have overgrown the utility light and transmission lines.

He explained that a crew was there and chopped the weeds that were hanging at the bottom of the pole but the top is still overrun with vines and is blocking the light bulb there.

Meanwhile, Indroutie Narine, Persaud’s mother, was born and lived in Unity Village all her life.

The 80-year-old is similar to an ‘energizer’ battery she keeps going because she is accustomed to hard work.

She operates a shop at her home and would go to the city once a week to purchase groceries to stock up the shelves in

Resident of Lancaster, Seenauth Denpargh waiting on his son at the roadside (Carl Croker photos)

Thribhawan Persaud, a resident of Unity

Indroutie Narine

is located on the outskirts of the villages.

This rural community is noted for being the birthplace of both Shivnarine Chanderpaul, former captain of the West Indies Cricket team; Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, former President of Guyana; and Colin Croft, another talented cricketer. Guyanese cricketers the Arjune brothers also come from this community.

The late Sir David Rose was a resident and a housing scheme was named in his honour.

The Pepperpot Magazine caught up with a Lancaster resident, Seenauth Denpargh, who was sitting on a boulder by the roadside, awaiting the arrival of his son who was tasked with transporting him to another location to conduct some business.

Denpargh had visited the Unity-Lancaster Health Centre for his clinic appointment and was taking shade from the roasting sunshine.

He is a security guard at Unity ICT building and describes life as being ‘up and down’ but good because he is employed.

This resident added that a handful of young people work in offices and would journey to the city daily.

The utility pole in front of Persaud’s house that needs clearing

her shop.

“I work hard and still at it today because if you sit down and do nothing you will get sick and I want to enjoy what is left of my life and it is very simple, you have to work to live comfortably,” she said.

Her husband passed away when her son was just six years old and at the same location her parents had a small shop selling wedding products and vehicles.

Narine said she however, renovated the house and opened a shop to keep her busy during the day and when the Pepperpot Magazine visited she was in the kitchen preparing some achar.

At her age, she still does her own cooking, household chores and tends to customers plus still has the time for a friendly chat.

Narine’s day starts at 04:00hrs, when she would engage in prayers then some chores after which she would open her shop at quarter to six but by 17:00hrs she would close up the shop and take rest early.

“I like my life here, it is very simple,” she said.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

IX

‘Aunty Bootie’ and her homemade snacks 53 years of serving schoolchildren

By Michel Outridge

DHARAMDAI Ramrattan, better known as “Aunty Bootie,” has been providing healthy and tasty snacks for schoolchildren for the past 53 years at the Gibson Primary School, Unity Village, East Coast Demerara.

This kind, mild-mannered and endearing woman is a mother figure and a role model to the children.

She never overcharges them and even if they are short of cash, she would gift them snacks daily.

Aunty Bootie told the Pepperpot Magazine that she started selling at

band’s income.

The 71-year-old said at first when she started selling she used to be ashamed to come out with her bags to go sell, but now she likes her job, since it is honest and it provides for herself and ailing husband.

This outgoing woman resides at Sir David Rose Housing Scheme and is now the sole bread-winner for her home, since her spouse is ill.

The mother of four added that even though things are a bit slow in terms of sales, she “makes do,” because it is her job to provide a good service to the children.

“Children, who passed

that nature and convenient for the children to make purchases.

About three years ago, a member of a religious organisation visited her and volunteered to make her a new stand, since the one she had needed repairs; she however declined and the woman kept insisting, so she later agreed.

Aunty Bootie explained that she used to sell in the school compound, but she was asked to exit some years ago and took her small business outside.

“Even if the children don‘t have enough money or anybody can come here and get something to eat, because that’s how I am, Gibson Primary School in Unity Village, East Coast Demerara (Carl Croker photos) starts at 01:00hrs when she would prepare snacks for sale. She would then cook a meal, do chores and then get ready for school and would go home at about 15:30hrs daily.

“It’s been years my husband can’t see too well and cannot work, so I have to support him, but he does assist me in washing the clothes and other things,” she said.

Aunty Bootie told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is comfortable with her life, but the only problem are the pains in both knees.

She would even journey to Berbice to visit a doctor for treatment.

“The doctor’s fee ain’t easy so there goes my pension and then I have to pay $3,000 per week for the taxi to and from my house to the school, five days per

week,” she said.

Aunty Bootie, however, boasts that she has the shiniest pots and pans in her neighbourhood and takes pride in keeping her environment and house clean.

She is one of the friendliest and nicest persons one can meet and is described as a fixture at the Gibson Primary School in Unity Village.

Aunty Bootie at her small roadside stand the school at 21 years old when she left her home village of Enmore after marriage and came to live in Lancaster.

She related that the marriage life was new to her and she started a family, eventually bearing four children who are now all grown up with their own families. At that time, the new mother began to sell to supplement her hus-

through the Gibson Primary School and migrated, would return and come and look for me, saying ‘Aunty Bootie you still selling here!’ and they would be so glad to see me,” she said.

Aunty Bootie has a wooden stand near the Gibson Primary School at Unity Village, just off the Public Road and it is a good spot for business of

very giving,” she said.

Aunty Bootie believes in principles and she would often entertain passers-by and villagers daily under her stand for a quick chat.

She makes pholurie, cassava balls, potato balls and egg balls and has confectionery and a few toys, as well.

Aunty Bootie related that her day usually

Aunty Bootie tending to a schoolboy at her stand

X

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

The Unity-Lancaster Health Centre A reliable and professional health care service to residents

By Michel Outridge

THE Unity-Lancaster Health Centre is the primary health care facility which serves residents of seven villages along the East Coast corridor.

Dr Alicia Waldron is the doctor in charge there and has been at the location for the past seven months; from all appearances, she enjoys her role at the facility.

At the time the Pepperpot Magazine visited, she was tending to patients by performing triage services on an elderly woman who has diabetes and hypertension.

Dr Waldron seems at ease and didn’t look tired and even though it was way past her lunch period, she was still at it.

She told the Pepperpot Magazine that Unity-Lancaster Health Centre has another doctor who was on leave, a Medex, two nurses, a cleaner, a pharmacy assistant and a handyman.

“Different days, different amount of patients pass through this facility, because we have clinic days but on a typical day, we see about 50 patients since we serve residents from seven villages on this side,” she said.

Dr Waldron added that they would see more patients who are suffering from diabetes and hypertension and seasonal illnesses and since there are several schools close by, from time to time they have some minor accidents and treat some schoolchildren with cuts and bruises.

Nursing Assistant Shuneza Rodrigues

She related that serious cases that are out of their reach are either referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPGHC) or the Mahaicony Hospital, which is a few miles away.

antenatal clinic and in the afternoon they have an adolescent antenatal clinic. On Fridays they have neonatal admissions and in the afternoon home visits are done.

Nursing Assistant Shuneza Rodrigues

Dr Alicia Waldron, the doctor in charge at the centre

The Unity-Lancaster health centre (Carl Croker photos) Dr. Waldron told the Pepperpot Magazine that the Unity-Lancaster Health Centre offers a wide range of services from Monday to Friday, from 08:00hrs to 16:30hrs.

She disclosed that on Mondays they have chronic diseases clinic in the morning, while in the afternoon they have an out-patient clinic for dressings.

On Tuesdays, she said they have a Paediatric Clinic and out-patient clinic during the afternoon; on Wednesdays the chronic diseases clinic is conducted and dressings clinic in the afternoon.

As for Thursdays, they have adult

told the Pepperpot Magazine that they try to see all their patients in good time, thereby limiting the waiting time to see the doctors on duty.

She stated that they also have the services of the community health worker on board and they work as a team to administer the relevant medicines to patients, some of whom are elderly.

Dr Alicia Waldron tending to a patient

Inside the Unity-Lancaster health centre

Even though Rodrigues is from Melanie Damishana, it was clear she didn’t mind the commute, because she was comfortable working in a team-oriented environment under the guidance of the competent Dr Waldron.

The Pepperpot Magazine spoke to several patients, all of whom did not have any complaints about the service and they were awaiting their turn to see Dr Waldron.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XI

The friendly faces of Unity-Lancaster

By Michel Outridge

CYRIL Singh is a resident of Unity Village and is a security guard at nights and a farmer during the day.

He has been residing there since 1985, has been a bachelor since the age of 15 and is well versed in the kitchen, where he

His home and surroundings were notably clean and comfortable and he said that’s how he likes to keep it and he has a good life in the countryside village of Unity.

Singh was, however, upset that the high tides caused the canal to overtop slightly and flooded his yard, which damaged his

Melchior Hinds

Cyril Singh

prepares his meals on the fireside.

Singh, 61, has a kitchen garden of bora, calaloo, boulanger, eschallot, ochro, corilla, and passion fruit.

He explained that fellow villagers would buy his produce which he plants on a small scale; he also has eight goats.

Singh added that he is the father of two and, having been single for so long, he manages his time and can get some rest before going to his night job.

crop of bora, but said he will re-plant.

“Dis a one nice place fuh live, but you have to work hard to live a good life because most people here are either farmers or fishermen and that entails very hard labour,” he said.

In Unity Village, Singh reported that they have good roads, a good cricket ground, a health centre, a kindergarten, schools and many shops.

“Unity means togetherness and we are such a people here; we live nice and as a

Cyril Singh’s kitchen garden of calaloo

big family,” Singh said.

Meanwhile, Narine Singh is a wellknown resident who is the Justice of Peace, Commissioner of Oaths and Affidavits and constantly entertains visitors, who conduct business at his place.

The 78-year-old is still able-bodied and is active in his garden, doing chores and

abuse among the young people in the village and there is a need to address the problem.

But besides that, Unity-Lancaster is a quiet place to live a good life where the day starts early and ends very late at nights.

“Development of the village is slow but sure and we have seen the cleaning of drains and canals within this community over the years,” he said.

He related that Unity is a place where people live off the sea and land, grow what they eat and fish. He was born and grew up there and has made something of his life and wish the youths can adopt the same culture of hard work to become useful members in society.

The Pepperpot Magazine also met Melchior Hinds, who operates the vulcanising shop on the Unity Public Road and is familiar with the residents.

He has been there for the past six years and has developed a good relationship with residents, to whom he said he would gift his fresh-caught fish, garden fruits and vegetables.

Hinds said although he is from the city, he likes the countryside life where everything is in ‘slow motion.’

Narine Singh, Justice of the Peace of He added that the good fruits and vegeUnity Village tables come from Unity-Lancaster villages and the people are very welcoming and tending to his livestock. warm to visitors.

The retired headmaster of Gibson Pri When the Pepperpot Magazine visited mary School said he was also a councillor Hinds he was relaxing under a shed which and has a bit of knowledge about Unity serves as his work area and two of four Village. kittens he rescued were sleeping on chairs The father of two added that there are after being fed.

350 house lots in Unity and mostly East “A man abandoned them in an old Indians reside there with a few Africans, car by the roadside and I went and got some Spanish and a handful of Indigenous them and took them in and now they are folk. my company and we are happy here,” Narine reported that there is substance he said.

One of the well-paved roads in the community (Carl Croker photos)

XII

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

An oasis for weary travellers

By Michel Outridge

K& K Service Station, located at Lot 1 Plantation Unity, East Coast Demerara, is a business established more than eight years ago and which employs about 30 villagers while servicing people passing through.

According to its Manager Rondie Williams, the entity is privately owned by the Nauths, who are Guyanese residing overseas and they have made significant contributions to the development of this

who reside on the East Coast corridor.

K& K Service Station has the interest of the people in mind and is always trying to provide a satisfactory service for customers.

Williams told the Pepperpot Magazine that the establishment also has a convenient store and the kitchen area which houses a snackette.

He disclosed that the place attracts a lot of people passing through and it is the ideal spot where one can get a cold bev-

venient store are opened from 05:30hrs to up until 00:30hrs on Sundays, but closes earlier during the week.

“This is a point where people stop to recharge so to speak, be it gasoline, or a snack or to buy oil for their vehicle, because it is a place where you can get a variety of things under one roof and it is also affordable,” he said.

Williams added that villagers can make use of the late openings at nights and would make their necessary purchases,

never closes. They have implemented a shift system for pump attendants, who are form the village.

Williams explained that they don’t have a long commute and they can get home easily after a late shift.

The business offers free air for travellers and it has a restroom and comfortable gazebos with tables and chairs; these provide the perfect spot for a meal or a quick snack for those passing through.

“The people of this

Rondie Williams, Manager of K & K Service Station

K & K Service Station at Unity Village (Carl Croker photos) country.

The Nauths also operate H. Nauth and Sons Civil Engineering Contractors business and also employs dozens of people

erage, a coffee, burgers, roti, duck, chicken, mutton curries, fries, chips, ice cream and many more foods.

The kitchen and con-

because they are opened late when the corner shops close.

He stated that the gas station operates on a 24hour basis, as such, it

village are very cooperative and supportive of this business, because we have close relations and we also give back to the community in many

ways, because we aid the development of the people and village,” he said.

He explained that for this Navratri season (a Hindu festival), they

will sponsor nights at the Mandir in which the entire village can come out and enjoy a delicious seven-curry meal and other goodies.

Williams related that donations are also made to schools and other organisations within the village.

The manager, however, would like an ICT hub for schoolchildren and a gym.

He reported that they are in the process of expanding and a pharmacy will be added to their services with an in-house, qualified pharmacist.

Williams stated that residents made the request and they want to fulfil such a request, all for their convenience.

He noted that K & K Gas Station also has a section for Lotto Blast Games, which serves as a recreational park.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

International Natural Disaster Reduction Day

LAST weekend, the Director General of the Civil Defense Commission (CDC) issued a warning about high tides with the possibility of flooding on the West Coast of Demerara.

Scores of photos and videos shared on social media highlighted the extent of damage to homes, and even the Parika Stelling and Stabroek Market area in Georgetown.

The UN General Assembly called for the International Day for Disaster Reduction in 1989 as a way to promote a global culture of risk-awareness and disaster reduction. That includes disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness. It was originally celebrated on the second Wednesday of October (Resolution 44/236, 22 December 1989), but after two decades the UN General Assembly formally designated 13 October as the annual date (Resolution 64/200, 21 December 2009).

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Reduction The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 (Sendai Framework) is the first major agreement of the post-2015 development agenda, with seven targets and four priorities for action. It was endorsed by the UN General Assembly following the 2015 Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR).

The Framework is a 15-year, voluntary, non-binding agreement which recognises that the State has the primary role to reduce disaster risk, but that responsibility should be shared with other stakeholders including local government, the private sector and other stakeholders. It aims for the following outcome: The substantial reduction of disaster risk and losses in lives, livelihoods and health and in the economic, physical, social, cultural

and environmental assets of persons, businesses, communities and countries.

THE SEVEN GLOBAL TARGETS (a) Substantially reduce global disaster mortality by 2030, aiming to lower average per 100,000 global

mortality rate in the decade 20202030 compared to the period 20052015; (b) Substantially reduce the number of affected people globally by 2030, aiming to lower average global figure per 100,000 in the decade 2020 -2030 compared to the period 2005-2015; (c) Reduce direct disaster economic loss in relation to the global gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030; (d) Substantially reduce disaster damage to critical infrastructure and disruption of basic services, among them health and educational facilities, including through developing their resilience by 2030; (e) Substantially increase the number of countries with national and local disaster risk reduction strategies by

XIII

2020; (f) Substantially enhance international cooperation in developing countries through adequate and sustainable support to complement their national actions for implementation of this Framework by 2030; and (g) Substantially increase the availability of and access to

multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information and assessments to the people by 2030.

THE CIVIL DEFENSE COMMISSION IN GUYANA The CDC was established in 1982 to create plans and conduct operations to deal with all types of disasters in Guyana. By 1985, a comprehensive National Disaster Preparedness Plan was documented and implemented. In September 2001, Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) for the National Emergency Operations Centre were upgraded to meet new challenges posed by worsening domestic and international disasters.

Today, the CDC’s mandate is to coordinate and monitor Disaster Risk Management and Comprehensive Disaster Management in Guyana; identify, analyse and map hazards and conduct related research into their effects and develop appropriate responses; collaborate with Ministries and Departments of Government, national and Regional Democratic Councils, local communities, statutory bodies, private sector entities, non-governmental organisations and faith-based organisations having functions related to, or having aims or objectives related to those of the Commission; develop and maintain

a database on disaster-related information including climate change and other new and emerging threats and to ensure access to the database by stakeholders In the context of its mandate, the CDC’ s mission is, to reduce loss of life, damage to property and improve the quality of life in Guyana by leading, coordinating and supporting the nation in the development and enhancement of a comprehensive disaster risk management system, involving preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery.* We all have a role to play in disaster risk management. For natural hazards such as the elements of nature, while we can’t prevent those, we can reduce the impact by being properly prepared; * Adhere to warning messages issued by public authorities, * Adhere to building codes and national standards; * Have an emergency plan and equipment for your home, work and business; * Remove any obstacles can exacerbate the problem; * Have clear signage; * Always maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Additionally, be cognizant of man-made hazards and do what is necessary to protect yourself, family and your property.

https://www.unisdr.org/we/campaign/iddr http://guyanachronicle. com/2018/06/24/the-civil-defence-commission* 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.

XIV

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

What is necessary for a competitive art & literature-based edutainment and adventure cultural industries business THIS article is written on request, for a need-to-know area of professionals.

The term Art and Literature-based Edutainment/Adventure as mentioned in the heading covers Comic Books, novels, plays, movies, games and all the ‘Brand’ merchandise that go with it. It begins with the requisite talent and skill, better, a combination of artistic and literary skills. A combination that drives a specific way of interpreting things, that culminates in a passionate disturbance that demands expression, but embraces it with the understanding, that no serious career is easy to build. All this means is that you have to like what you want to do, despite the nays and jeers of the multitude, within and without.

From the time you begin to write a story and add art to it for public consumption. It is out of your private space. Your Art must cover sequences, be lateral but still be three dimensional. Your characters must be consistent, anatomy convincing, light and shadows must not contradict, foreshortening mastered, and you need a camera, know how to use it, and money to pay models to capture the expressions that your story contains. You also have to have a dictionary, student’s companion, first aid in English and a copy of Alsop’s dictionary of Caribbean usage. For example, if your story is in the 1970s, research the period; how they dressed, how the backdrop locations looked, etc.

By now you have spent money on bookcases, drawing books, a drawing table, D-T Lamp and all the Lomography pencils, dip pens, inks and stuff, and a solid stash of reference books, computer, scanner, printer, ups, APC strips, software and externals. By the way, I must warn, that you need period research books because google sites will inform as well as misguide you. Those sites are best suited to selectors versed in the atmosphere and imagery of what they’re looking for, because in the creative field for every t10 doers there are 2,000 critics who will terminate your name and brand, by the way with all the above, possibly over $1.5M in tangible assets, you can and should put a value of hours spent by you on projects, but you will have to subsidise yourself, because you haven’t earned a cent as yet, so keep your not too exciting day job and if young enough, implore mom and dad, mom especially, for your formative career studio space accommodation at home.

Open an account at the bank, register your business, design a letterhead. Please don’t look to the internet for ideas towards these items, everything on the Net is out there by someone who owns it. In the search for busi-

ness, especially what my past friend Hector Stoute called ‘Pot Boilers’ a letterhead might not get you a gig, but it will attract attention faster than a plain letter. Why the Bank? Because we have not developed the museums, nor are there archives of records and pictures in most, Transport & Harbours, GAC, The City Council among other public entities, you are bound to traverse the internet for past literature and related sources.

You cannot on the completion of your creative piece copyright it in Guyana just yet, your only other option is the Library of Congress in Washington, so money orders for copyright and postage by UPS or FedEx are part of the criteria. Copyright is important.

There are people in prominent social and financial positions who will attempt to steal your intellectual property. Most of your business relationships will prefer to issue you with a cheque, and it adds favourably to your loan options later. Your local development of any creative project will not project you to great financial rewards, because of the reading market that is capable of buying is small.

There are no distributors of goods in the CARICOM network. I’ll deal with

that in a while, and the local public infrastructure nor most businesses in Guyana do not understand Cultural Industries, because of its tenets which do require a special type of re-education and attitude to familiarise with a ‘value’ awareness and the unique trade procedures and economics that Guyana does not have ready concept or application templates for.

The local publishing will replace some of what is consumed from creative birth, to copyrighting, and eventually to the printer. This will, however, launch your product into the minds of citizens, and we have always had a cadre of aware citizens ahead of our systems.

The other reality is maintaining studio capacity, unlike public workers who take for granted the right to requisition Printer inks, papers, new computers and software and replacements of everything. This is on your budget; consider yourself a pioneer.

Grind your teeth and lobby, lobby, lobby.

We now have a subvention to the Cultural Industries that didn’t even exist, long before Independence. Systems have to be developed in the public system to embrace the creative

industries and proposals have to come from we who are the producers.

The possibility to reach the wider world market is finance-driven, private collaborations can speed it up, so you need to self educate yourself on Contracts, Agreements, Licensing as against work for Hire, sums in lieu of royalties, and signing contracts that specify ‘We own all we print. By signing this agreement all rights including published copyrights are transferred to us’. Read everything before signing, yes, you have to buy more books.

You need a significant stash to get on the market. The veins of the market are the book distributors, from an old copy from Diamond distributors, they take 45 percent of your cover price ( it’s worth it, based on the leverage they initially offer you) but you get returns after 90 days, which means if it’s a trilogy you’re publishing. You need to have a financing arrangement in the background. It’s worth it because your product may initiate a niche market and pivot you into real rewards.

I do hope this will help. You know the saying, “Faint hearts don’t win real ladies” and it applies to every human endeavour.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XV

FILES E S A C COURT Accused appealed convictions – alibis were not put to jury

By George Barclay

Appellate Court affirmed convictions, sentences

IN 1967 the Guyana Court of Appeal affirmed the convictions and sentences of appellants, robbery accused Carlton Adams and James Lawrence, despite allegations that the trial judge erred by not putting the appellants’ alibis to the jury.

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

The facts of the case disclosed that one man was robbed by one of the appellants as he was about to enter a shop.

Two constables who were on duty in plainclothes at a nearby corner were attracted by shouts of “thief” and saw when one of the appellants joined the other, who had a bicycle and the two of them rode away.

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

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

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

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

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

“The appellants were charged with robbery with violence. A witness gave evidence that as he was about to enter a shop in Regent Street, one of the accused attacked and robbed him. This witness chased that accused and saw him join the other accused who was waiting on a bicycle at Regent and Alexander Streets.

was that the men arrested, were the men who were pursued from Alexander and Regent Streets.

Both accused gave sworn evidence.

One said that he had shopped that morning at the material time with his mother in the market. After concluding his purchase he walked to Light and North Streets, where he was arrested.

The other accused said he was sent to Robb Street to do some work about 1;15 p.m. He went there and made enquiries at the first house between Light & Cummings Streets and was sent farther down Robb Street. While walking in Robb Street he was arrested.

The two accused rode away and were pursued a considerable distance by this witness. Unknown to the participants of this incident, two police constables on duty in plainclothes were standing at the corner of Alexander and Regent Streets, Attracted by shouts of “Thief” they saw one of the accused join the other accused and saw them both ride away. They followed on a motorcycle and caught up with them some distance from the starting point. As the policemen approached the two accused, the later abandoned their cycle and ran into a nearby yard; the police followed.

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

One accused called two witnesses to support his alibi.

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

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

In delivering the judgment of the court, GOMES C.J. said (1961-1962), 4, W.I.R. 277, at p. 278): “Where the defence of alibi is set up,

the requirement for an adequate direction to be given by the judge to the jury is of such an elementary nature that it should not require constant repetition.

The fundamental principle is that before a jury can return a verdict of guilty, they must feel sure that the prosecution has discharged the onus of establishing the guilt of the accused.

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

“The main reason why that further direction or reminder is required to be be given is that, where an accused person gives evidence or calls witnesses, or does both of those things in support of his alibi, the jury is confronted with two opposed versions which are created by the presentation of evidence, the truth or falsity of which can be tested and be determined by them. In such event, a jury, in the absence of further direction, might think that if they reject the alibi, they must or can only accept the version put forward by the prosecution.

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

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

by GOMES, C .j.

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

XVI

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

What is a stroke?

MY column last week on Alzheimer’s has prompted another individual to share their family’s story about taking care of a relative who had suffered a stroke. At the time, they did not understand what was happening or even knew much about strokes. I decided to talk about it today as they are very common and more importantly they are sudden, so knowledge and preparation are key.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to parts of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. When this happens, brain cells begin to die. It is considered a medical emergency and immediate treatment is necessary as early action can minimise brain damage and additional potential complications.

There are three different kinds of strokes, which are caused by different events. An ischemic stroke is caused by a blocked artery and accounts for about 80% of strokes.

They occur when the arteries to your brain become narrowed or blocked, causing severely reduced blood flow. The most com-

mon ischemic strokes include: Thrombotic stroke, when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one of the arteries that supply blood to your brain and Embolic stroke, when a blood

clot or other debris forms away from your brain — commonly in your heart — and is swept through your bloodstream to lodge in narrower brain arteries.

A hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a burst or leaking blood vessel. There are also a few types of these which include Intracerebral haemorrhage, when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and spills into the surrounding brain tissue, damaging brain cells and Subarachnoid haemorrhage, when an artery on or near the surface of your brain bursts and spills into the space between the surface of your brain and your skull. This bleeding is often signalled by a sudden, severe headache.

Finally, a Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain from a clot or debris. This one causes the least damage and is very rarely permanent. It is typically known as a mini-stroke but not to take lightly as it is a risk factor for other larger and more dangerous strokes.

Many factors may increase the risk of a stroke. There are lifestyle risk factors such as physical inactivity, being over-weight or heavy alcohol or drug use. This means that eating well, sleeping well and exercise can prevent the possibility of a stroke. There are medical risk factors such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, cardiovascular disease or any heart issues. There is also a genetic component based on first-rate relatives. There are a few other things that make one more at risk, such as age, race and sex. For example, being over the age of 55, Afro- Guyanese and male are characteristics that make one more likely to have a stroke.

Signs of a stroke Individuals who are experiencing strokes will have trouble speaking or understanding what is being said around them. They may be confused and tend to slur their words if they try to speak. There may be trouble with vision in one or both eyes.

Paralysis is also common in parts of the body such as the face, arms or legs. A lot of the time, this just happens on one side of the body. This, of course, causes issues with balance and coordination. Sudden and severe headaches are also common which can be accompanied by nausea or vomiting.

There is a simple but effective ‘FAST’ test to see if someone around you may be having a stroke.

· Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one

side of the face droop or fall? · Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Or is one arm unable to rise? · Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his or her speech slurred or strange? · Time. If you observe any of these signs, take them to the nearest health centre immediately.

Some permanent complications and disabilities may come with a stroke. These include paralysis or loss of muscle movement, difficulty swallowing, difficulty with language, including speaking or understanding speech, reading, or writing. There may also be permanent memory loss or judgement and reasoning difficulties. There may be re-occurring pain or strange sensations throughout the body, especially the parts directly that had been affected by the stroke. Finally, there may be some emotional problems such as difficulty controlling their emotions, or they may develop mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.

So, based on what we know so far, there are a few preventative measures that we all can take to prevent a stroke. Again, eating well, sleeping well and exercise are key. Control high blood pressure (hypertension) - this is one of the most important things you can do to avoid a stroke. Watch and try to lower your cholesterol levels - eating less saturated fat and trans –fats as these may reduce the plaque in your arteries. Manage stress with healthy coping skills – no cigarettes, alcohol or any other hard drugs.

It is possible to recover from a stroke, depending on the severity of it. The impact of the stroke depends on the area of the brain involved and the amount of tissue that is damaged. After emergency treatment, stroke care focuses on helping the individual recover as much function as possible and return to independent living.

The success of this depends upon the underlying health of the patient and the severity of the stroke. Rehabilitation may take weeks or months but it is possible with the right help and support.

Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com.

Suicide Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444 or 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XVII

Paying attention to development of sports

IN the Caribbean, sports play a unique role in the development of our human capital and I believe that we ought to direct more focus towards developing this sector.

I was sitting in my class for Caribbean Civilisation this past week, and as my tutor was discussing the development of cultural diversity in the Caribbean, she mentioned cricket in the Caribbean. As Caribbean people, whether we like cricket or not, it is irrefutable that cricket has an indelible role in our history and more so our post-colonial history. My tutor alluded to the glorious days of West Indies cricket when we beat our colonisers at their own game and clinched the first and second world cup titles. While nowadays we may not be in those glory days, I believe that cricket (and by extension, any sport) brings out this fervent sense of pride in each of us.

Just as the West Indies did then, any success or development in sports is one which we can find ourselves celebrating. Take the Guyana Amazon Warriors for example. Now, the Warriors are dubbed ‘the bridesmaids’ of the

W

Caribbean Premier League (CPL) because we made it to the finals four times, but we have never won. This year, however, we’ve been on an incredible winning streak and it makes us seem as though we might finally bring the title home. In fact, as I write this, the team has just clinched their eighth consecutive win for this season. What makes this even more remarkable, is that this eighth consecutive win means that the team has the record for the highest number of consecutive victories in the CPL. Now, the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) are arguably our strongest rivals in this tournament. For myself and the other Guyanese students here in Trinidad, whether we like cricket or not, we are going to ‘pump’ (as the Trinis say), because we have that sense of national pride embedded in us. On campus, after we beat the TKR last Monday, a Guyanese girl ran out on campus (yes, at 11pm) with her Golden Arrowhead-- to pump!

Aside from cricket, when Usain Bolt earned the title of the world’s fastest man, we celebrated him as one of our own. And more recently in the athletics realm, we’ve celebrated Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce’s dominance as

our own as well.

Sports provide us with more than just an avenue to celebrate talent, however. Perhaps more importantly, it provides some leeway for young people to develop. This semester alone two young Guyanese tennis players Heimraj Rasul and Priyanna Ramdhani were offered scholarships to study abroad, due to their prowess in the sport. Last year, golden girl Chantoba Bright from Linden copped a scholarship herself due to her prowess in sports as well.

Furthermore, as emphasised in an article published by the International Olympic Committee in 2009, sports have a myriad of functions. According to this article, sports can help to bridge cultural and ethnic divides; create jobs and businesses; promote tolerance and non-discrimination; reinforce social integration; and advocate healthy lifestyles.

The Olympics provide a great illustration of these roles. There are scores of countries and hundreds of persons coming together in one space to try to represent their countries as best as they possibly can. And in a time when migration has become a very contentious

conversation, even though it should appeal to basic humanitarian values, recall that there was even a delegation of refugees recently.

“Through sports development, we can achieve wider human development goals,” the article posited.

Cognisant of this, I think many countries, including Caribbean countries, have begun working towards developing this sector. In Jamaica and Barbados, there has been much emphasis on investing in infrastructure, programmes and sports persons for years now.

At my orientation a few weeks ago, I learnt that even here in Trinidad at the University of the West Indies (UWI), a faculty dedicated specifically to sports has been developed.

I don’t believe we are at that stage of sports development in Guyana. Rather, it is my opinion that we are still in the stage of trying to promote sports in a more structured way.

But, I hope that Guyana can start directing more attention to developing sports as a productive sector and an avenue for social development, because there are many benefits to be derived from this.

A blogger with a deep passion for social work

RITING is an art which allows persons to express their thoughts and share wisdom and advice with

readers.

Twenty-two-year-old, Aravinda Moonsammy has been using his writing skills to address social issues which are affecting young people.

The young blogger created his social media page, “Arvin’s blog” to spread awareness about social issues and social ills.

“I also created it to help Guyanese youth attain a state of wellbeing in which they can realise their own potential… my personal experience with domestic violence inspired me to become an advocate for domestic violence,” said Moonsammy.

His mission is to create more awareness through education and helping persons to recognise the early signs of domestic violence.

From a tender age, Moonsammy observed cases of domestic violence and that allowed him to stand tall and address the social ill.

“Domestic violence is a very real issue that affects one in three women in Guyana, according to the National Coalition against Domestic Violence. Because of my passion for the topic, I created my own NGO in Guyana called The Purple Rose

Foundation,” said Moonsammy.

Along with the assistance of eight young people, Moonsammy is putting in the work so that the foundation could be officially launched in December.

“This was something i always wanted to do and finally it’s happening… the NGO’s mission is to rebuild a strong foundation of values for our young people and future generations where violence is replaced with responsible communication and human dignity,” he said.

He intends to continue building resilience through advocacy, community education, public policy, technical assistance and training, and resource sharing and research.

He said the foundation will offer support services, education, advocacy and leadership, all to shape a violence-free future for families across Guyana.

Moonsammy’s passion for volunteering stemmed from networking and interacting with professional organisations.

Through those organisations he worked with his peers to address common issues.

He has been working closely with Rotaract New Amsterdam. In 2018 he had the opportunity to represent the club as the 2018-2019 Community Service Director.

He has been able to execute over fifteen community service projects throughout the Region.

The young advocate was awarded best community service projects award from Rotaract for serving as the Community Service Director.

“As I continue my journey I want to break stereotypes and I want to go where no man or woman has gone before and it might be a scary path, and it might be a path that no one takes, but at least it’ll be just me,” said an enthusiastic Moonsammy.

He has been empowering himself through education. The young advocate studied at the Nations University and also with the Oxford Home Study College.

Although his schedule seems to be very packed, the young advocate said he has space to follow his dream of becoming a flight attendant one day.

When asked what keeps him going, Moonsammy said his family is biggest source of motivation and inspiration.

His advice for persons with similar aspirations was to swap any negative thoughts with positive ones and stay focused on the present.

“Don’t let negative things from the past affect your present-day happiness.

Whatever occurred in the past cannot be altered and you should let it go and move on. Negative experiences and emotions are part of human experience.

It is good to accept them and learn from them,” said Moonsammy.

Aravinda Moonsammy

Education

XVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

an entitlement for all Guyanese

EDUCATION is the tool that Guyana’s children will use to transform this nation.

President David Granger has led the Government of Guyana in restoring the entitlement of every child to free nursery, primary, and secondary education and the right of every Guyanese to access education and training opportunities.

Throughout the month of September, Guyana observed Education Month, which culminated with the Ministry of Education’s inaugural Education Expo on September 30. In the presence of hundreds of school children, President Granger expressed his vision for Education in Guyana.

THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION “Education is central to your lives, your families, to your communities, and to the country and National Education Month is the most important celebration we could have in the entire calendar year,” the Head of State said.

President Granger explained that the students have a constitutional right to education.

“I believe that education is an entitlement.

It is there and it has been there for 30 years in our Constitution and I vow that from next year, we are going to reintroduce that entitlement so that every child in Guyana is entitled, not only to free nursery, primary, and secondary education, but also, if you’re qualified, you’ll be entitled to free tertiary education as well. So, you don’t have to migrate. You don’t have to go away. We are going to build a first-class education system. Every Guyanese child will be educated on all four levels, nursery, primary, secondary, and tertiary at State expense. It is your entitlement,” he said.

The Government of Guyana this year has allocated a further $52 billion toward education, an increase of 64 per cent since taking office in 2015. This, President Granger said,

Ms. Makeda Williams, Soesdyke Night School participant.

Ms. Monerva Cadogan, Linden Night School participant. national development’, the Minister said that the Ministry is focused on facilitating the development of critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, digital technology skills in Guyana’s students. This, she said is being done through curriculum reform, initiatives that level education accessibility between hinterland and coastland, the implementation of the use of technology in the classroom, and the implementation of programmes related to Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sector in preparation of the nation’s changing economic reality.

Minister Henry urged the students to take advantage of the services provided by the Ministry in order to become the transformative leaders of Guyana’s future.

“You are our future leaders. It is our

President David Granger addressing hundreds of students and teachers at the inaugural Education Expo held at Durban Park on September 30th. is proof that he intends to make good on these promise as a Government of a good life for all promises.

Guyanese. Consequently, it is with confidence “Students of Guyana, these are not empty that I put before you… the irrefutable fact that promises. This is a plan to make sure that you education in Guyana is moving forward,” the get the best education that is available in the Minister of Education said.

Caribbean… I wish I was young again like In keeping with this year’s theme for you to take advantage of these opportunities Education Month, ‘Education: the key to that we are opening up. Today we haven’t come here to give you a history lesson about what happened in the past. Today, we’ve come here to tell you about the future. Today we’ve come to tell you that Guyana is a great place to be and Guyanese are great people and you will inherit a great future,” he said.

While the Ministry of Education has received a financial boost for its initiatives and programmes, Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry, made it clear that the Ministry is committed to making sure that all of Guyana’s students are educated in whatever field they want to pursue. This, the Minister said, will ensure Guyanese can live the good life.

“Undoubtedly, education is the most important tool that symbolises growth in any nation. Education lessens the challenges you will face in life. The more knowledge you gain, the more opportunities will open up to allow you to achieve better possibilities in career and personal growth. I can assure you that the Ministry of Education and the Government of Guyana is committed to providing educational opportunities for all Bishops’ High School students enjoying the Education Expo. sectors of society, thereby delivering on our

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

desire to provide an education sector designed to allow each of you to reach your full potential. I urge you, every boy and every girl to take full advantage of the services that we are providing and I ask that you become leaders of skill, knowledge, and ethics, so that you could make us proud as Guyanese,” she said.

TARGETING MARGINALISED GROUPS Some marginalised sectors of society overcome diverse challenges to access education. Sadly, Guyana’s school aged children are forced to leave the school environment for various reasons, many of them having little to do with poor academic performance.

The Department of Youth within the Ministry of Social Cohesion is combatting this unfortunate phenomenon through its Night School initiative. The Night Schools have

XIX

School students see over 50 per cent passes with grades one to three.

Ms. Makeda Williams and Ms. Monerva Cadogan were able to exercise their entitlement to secondary education, earning their Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) by attending a Night School.

“At first, I was nervous because… [I’m] a young person surrounded by older folks.

You’re expected to be respectful and carry yourself in a [certain] manner… but they were amazing. They are now my family. I can say honestly because everyone I see is like… my brother, my sister. The coordinator is like a father. So, anybody I see I would tell them [the Soesdyke Night School] is a good place to go if you want to finish CXC if you haven’t,” Ms. Williams said.

Her passion for education was rekindled.

Ms. Williams proceeded to recount her learning experience before speaking about her future plans.

President David Granger shares a laugh with Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry at the Education Expo.

Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) trainee teachers at the Education Expo. given school aged, out-of-school aged, and adult learners a second chance at attaining an education. Senior Research Planning and Development Officer at the Department of Youth, Ms. Adeti De Jesus explains.

“The night school programme was conceptualised in 2015 after visiting several communities and recognising that… a lot of young people out there, they do not have five subjects inclusive of Maths and English. A number of young people… were dropping out of school without even attempting to write the CXC subjects and persons who wrote the CXC subjects were not successful in gaining the five subjects. So, we saw the need for such a program to empower young people because as you know, you need five subjects in order to transition to higher learning, for example, the University of Guyana… In order to be employed, persons are asking, employers require… that you have CXC,” she said.

The programme, which started in 2016 with only three Night Schools, has not only been able to open three additional facilities, but has also seated students at CXC examinations every year. Every year, the Night

“I used to go to a secondary school in Georgetown, from my opinion I didn’t really understand how they taught but when I went there, they broke it down to the simplest, to atoms I should say, the smallest particles that you can understand… That helped me to get into sixth form. St Joseph’s High accepted me and I see myself, after sixth form, going into University and possibly being a future teacher or author,” she said.

Ms. Williams was inspired and encouraged to pursue CSEC at the Night School by her own mother, Ms. Melissa Giles, who also successfully participated in the initiative.

“My mother started the Night School late August in the year 2017 and from seeing her going there and the way she was able to help and advise me... motivated me more, I was like Mom, I’m not ready to write CXC this year… She said alright, she can’t afford to send me to school all the time in town, that’s difficult since it’s her alone, so she moved me to the Night School actually and that was awesome. She helped me in areas I didn’t understand… and everything else, she helped motivate me and in the year 2018 she passed

three of four subjects and this year… she [rewrote] the one she failed along I think with four others… and she passed all,” she said.

Ms. Cadogan, a single mother, credits the Night School for her newfound ability to redirect her career.

“Going back to school has always been something that I wanted to do, I dropped out of school when I was 15, close to 16 years old and I always longed for the opportunity to get some CXC subjects... It was extremely challenging because I work in the mornings from 6-10 and then I went home, I deal with my kids and I deal with the kids at home… I would go in a corner and study so I could gain knowledge to become successful… The Night School brought

me from not having any qualifications, so now I am proudly the holder of three CXC subjects and I am currently applying at the Guyana Police Force and I would like to see myself becoming a public prosecutor in the future,” she said.

A number of Ministries and Government Agencies have come alongside the Ministry of Education to provide education and training opportunities for the people of Guyana. Education remains a top priority on the State’s agenda.

President Granger and the Government of Guyana are truly committed to arming the next generation with the knowledge and skills need to transform Guyana and the lives of all Guyanese.

Students of Stella Maris Primary and other primary school children at the Ministry of Education organised Education Expo which was held on September 30th at Durban Park.

XX

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

S E U N E V E R IL O F O T N E M T S E V IN COULD ACHIEVE THE ‘GUYANA AGRICULTURAL REVOLUTION’

IN Guyana’s history, there have been two pervading myths or traditions -- Guyana being the City of Gold or El Dorado-- and the other, Guyana being the food basket of the Caribbean.

The first myth has materialised not merely because Guyana produces El Dorado, the unchallenged best golden rum in the world, but more seriously because Guyana has been producing large quantities of gold with large deposits awaiting exploitation. The other tradition or myth of Guyana being the food basket of the Caribbean gave a brief indication of its reality when, during World War II, Guyana’s rice and ground provisions held off famine from the Caribbean islands.

The time has now come for Guyana to become the food basket of the Caribbean and supply its USD 5 billion food imports.

Becoming the food basket of the Caribbean would provide Guyana with complete food security and would give food security to the Caribbean as well. The Caribbean has always been a Region which lacked food security and two historical examples will illustrate this: the Caribbean islands-- and in particular the British islands-depended on food imports from the British colonies in North America. When the American War of Independence erupted, the American colonies’ food exports to the Caribbean were almost ended and the Caribbean suffered great distress.

Second example: after Emancipation and the emigration of a large proportion of the plantation owners and managers, food imports to Guyana were gravely curtailed and the freedmen had to fend for themselves and were forced to live on ground provisions and breadfruit; even this monotonous and slender food supply was sometimes affected by lack of rainfall and drought conditions.

Now, with the oil revenues, the Agricultural Revolution could be seen on the horizon. The great investments which agriculture required to be modernised, expanded and to increase production and productivity are now becoming available and Guyana is at the threshold of becoming the food basket of the Caribbean and satisfying the Region’s food imports of USD 5 billion.

During April last, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)’s Assistant Director General Dr Julio Berdegue visited Guyana because the “FAO wished to strengthen ties and collaborate with Guyana, given the unique role Guyana can play in agricultural development.” The “unique role” to which

Dr Berdegue was referring was explained as: “The Caribbean faces the enormous problem of a food import bill which has been growing every year for the past 30 to 35 years. Right now, the Caribbean is spending USD 4.5 billion per year to buy food that can be grown in the sub-region. .and this will address the huge problem of food security and safety in the Caribbean Region.”

To take advantage of this USD 5 billion Caribbean agricultural market, an agricultural improvement plan has to be formulated which would encompass introducing modern agricultural methods, different varieties, modern agricultural technologies and training. This investment in agriculture would derive from oil revenues. The new profitability, wealth and prestige which would be generated by agriculture would once again encourage young people to again enter the industry. Sugar and rice which have been the agricultural and indeed the economic backbone of the country for the last two centuries will also be revived into new prosperity.

A burgeoning and profitable agriculture sector will inevitably birth value-added industries, some of the basic ones being, for example, rice wines, cereals and confectionery, various types of flours and oils. Many of these products could be exported to the niche markets of the developed countries.

The large off-shore petroleum mining industry will certainly be disturbing the fish habitats as happened in Trinidad, but this may be remedied in several ways such as inshore fish farming or relocating stocks.

Successful efforts to preserve and save the fishing industry will depend on oil revenues being invested early in the industry.

The issue of climate change should never be placed on the backburner, but must be addressed since the Caribbean Region, by 2030, will move to 1.5 degrees in higher temperature. This may imply relocating or growing crops elsewhere in the country.

The new petroleum industry should not be allowed to dominate the thinking of policymakers to the disadvantage of agriculture.

The petroleum industry is a finite one and will diminish as deposits become exhausted as happened in Trinidad. Agriculture, on the other hand, is self-generating and would always be providing food and employment.

Dr Berdegue’s advice is timely and relevant: “Oil and gas and agriculture can live togeth-

er. . . We need modern regularisation and modern technologies to manage the space to make these different economic activities coexist in a less stressful and more mutually reinforcing situation.”

XXI

If agriculture captures the Caribbean import food market, provides the Region with food security and at the same time expands its exports to other countries, Guyana’s prosperity would be ensured.

XXII

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

NAREI’s Charity Plant Nursery THIS week NAREI in Focus will promote the Charity Plant Nursery.

This facility is strategically situated at Lot 12 Amazon, Charity Public Road, Region Two to satisfy the needs of farmers on the Essequibo Coast and certain Region One communities such as Moruca.

Through this nursery, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute ensures that other crop farmers operating in

Pomeroon also have access to quality planting materials. Currently, there are 10,000 seedlings including soursop, Carambola, passion fruit, pomegranate, cherry, rough lemon, and sugar apple in stock for sale.

From Monday to Friday, the nursery’s supervisor, three labourers and two security personnel provide quality customer service.

The 1,500ft nursery is always neat and clean.

The plants are well taken care of.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XXIII

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Observations on teaching old books to young people I FIND it very ironic that many young people of today find it so difficult to engage with any literature that was written before the 20th Century.

The irony exists on two levels. The first has to do with the fact various literary eras (Victorian, Medieval, et.) are a part of the origins of what we write and study today in the modern world, and there is much to learn about current literature by looking back at where it came from, how it developed, and who its main proponents were.

Pre-20th Century literature, for this very reason, forms an important basis for many literature/writing curriculums in universities and schools all across the world. One of my favourite books of all time, “Wuthering Heights,” the only novel by Emily Bronte, is a sensual and sensational read, a novel that is brilliantly written, a miraculous work of art, and yet, there are many people in the world who would refuse to read it on the grounds that it is an ‘old’ book and, therefore, somehow too difficult to engage with.

The second bit of irony that I associate with young people not wanting to read old books is that many young people are religious, subscribing to religious norms, beliefs, and expectations that have been preserved for thousands of years as literature, stored in books. I will never be able to comprehend how people will wholeheartedly read from the Bible or the Gita or the Quran while refusing to pick up anything by Dante or Homer or Wilde. In a way, there is as much to learn from reading books about the world we live in, with characters and situations faced by people just like us, as much, in fact, as there is to learn from the religious texts.

The grudging demeanour that manifests itself whenever young people are confronted with old literature can be easily witnessed in most classrooms. Introduce them to Shakespeare or Christina Rosetti and there will undoubtedly be a loud groan or some seemingly compulsive comment about why only boring books are studied in school and why can’t there ever be anything fun, like “The Hunger Games” on the syllabus. It is both an endearing as well as hilarious moment in the classroom that I always think back on weeks after this initial introduction, after the students have been sucked into the text. I do not doubt that the issue English teachers suffer with the most is the one that has to do with making students interested in reading those books published pre-20th Century. Currently, I am teaching Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter,” a classic that was published in 1850 – so I do understand the struggle of having students engage with a novel that might seem, at first, to be far removed from their lives, their environment, and their experiences.

I think the first thing that needs to be conquered when students are working with a text is the language barrier. Writers from different periods use language in different ways. This is reflected in the Old English of “Beowulf” or the Shakespearean dialect of the Bard, or even the way Hawthorne uses long, flowing sentences, dense with

help to resolve modern day issues. After the connections are made and students become more interested, then revealing to them the purpose of literature becomes important. This is where students are able to move from being able to read a specific kind of literature (overcoming the language barrier) to enjoying the reading of such literature (being able to relate to the text) and then, finally, to understanding how to use the literature in real life (knowing the importance of the literature). The question now becomes, how can old literature help to solve modern problems? For example, how might Shakespeare’s poetry help in the championing of LGBTQIA+ rights?

What might Charles Dickens “David Cop-

“The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Penguin Classics imagery and meaning. Unpacking a linguistic style from what they are used to can be difficult for students – but it is a situation that they definitely need to overcome, because, to understand the story they need to understand the language in which that story is written. Whether it by using a side-byside translation or teaching students how to break apart long sentences to capture the meaning so it can be distilled into a few words, there is no doubt that getting students over the language hurdle is the first step towards making students enjoy old works of literature.

The barrier also has to do with the fact that students are, in the initial stages, usually unable to relate to or connect themselves to the characters or scenarios presented in a work of literature that was written hundreds of years ago. Because they are unable to relate, they are (unsurprisingly) unable to become invested in or care about the work of literature. Step two, therefore, is showing students how to make those necessary connections between themselves and the book – and rest assured that the connections are always there, since literature is about the human condition and truth and love, all themes which transcend time. So, when reading about Hester Prynne being shamed at the scaffold for having a child out of wedlock in “The Scarlet Letter,” the student may, at first, be resistant towards this conservative Puritan society, but if it is pointed out that slut-shaming, the poisonous intersection between church and state, and regressive roles for women, are all themes which exist in both the novel and the modern world in which the students live, then the story will altogether become more interesting.

The third and final step has to do with showing students how an old story can

perfield” have to tell us about modern day class divisions by highlighting class divisions in Industrial-era London? How might Joseph Conrad’s “The Heart of Darkness” suggest about how little the treatment of native peoples have changed throughout the years? The insights earned, the analysis made, and knowledge gained through such interrogation is what constitutes literary study – and without it, reading is an exercise in seeking entertainment through words, which is enough for some people, but for students it should not be. Older books have a wealth of knowledge to offer to the young people of today.

The onus is on them to reach out and take it.

XXIV

Being honoured with the High Achievers Award

MANY people may not know how shy and introverted I was in my younger days. It was not easy but I had to find a way to build my self-esteem and gain the confidence to be the best possible me.

Many times I doubted myself and I know I am not alone. I am a testimony of what is possible when you have faith, determination, focus and self-discipline. Thank you Wilma

Mulcare for honouring me with the HIGH ACHIEVERS AWARD in Florida.

The list of things I still need to achieve is long but I am thankful for an organisation to acknowledge that I am doing things no matter what.

I am sharing this award with all the people who don’t believe that they are enough and are struggling to feel comfortable outside their comfort zones. As the bible said “Stand firm on your

shaky legs”.

The Mulcare Award Extravaganza was a very classy event and my collection was a hit. Wilma hails from the Caribbean and has been living in the United States for decades and has mastered her craft which placed her at the top of her game. She is the vice president for the Women Association, created a beauty care line and people request her consultancy service because her

expertise has enhanced and nurtured many business and organisations. She decided to create the line because as she communicated with her Clients there were a lot of questions to be answered addressing their beauty needs and hair, skincare, make-up artistry. “I felt fashion is a great part of complimenting hair and makeup and people in the industry should be acknowledged more. I always admired people who go above and beyond to accomplish their goals, needed to be recognized,” she said.

Dr Dupree opened with a power prayer. Dr. M. Tina has 25+ years experience as a Professional Speaker, is Author of five books, creator of other resources for personal and professional growth and development.

She is lovingly known internationally as “The Chicken Lady” because of 12 years’ experience as a corporate representative for a major fast-food restaurant chain.

She is a phenomenal woman with amazing track records from mentoring hundreds of you women. We are working on our sixth book and had a great discussion about how important it is to tell your stories. The ever so graceful Charlene Holloway Meriedy narrated the evening’s showcase with sophistication and eloquence. All of the collections were captivating and suitable for every body type.

Every time I receive an award as an acknowledgement of the contribution I made to the fashion industry,

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion it reminds of what is really important in life. Although fashion and the beauty industries earn billions of dollars, some people, especially in the Caribbean, still regard them as frivolous and superficial.

I always engaged people in a conversation regarding the creative sector to get various opinions and a few days later, I had an interesting conversation with some much older women at lunch at the Miami Shores Country Club.

Personally, I was always conscious and intentional not to be distracted by the negatives. My involvement in the industry had to be beyond the runway and I used the fashion platform to bring at-

tention to things that affect us and find possible solutions.

Thank you to all the persons who believe and encouraged me especially my mom Claudia Gibson John and Award Willing photographer Scott Oliver.

One of the events we created was style mission because style has no purpose if there is no meaning.

Style has no value if there is no mandate and style has no soul if there is no mission. We have not had this event for a few years but it is back and I will amplify more on that in my next column as we continue this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

Pic by Award Willing photographer Scott Oliver.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XXV

XXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XXVII

XXVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XXIX

XXX

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XXXI

XXXII

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

XXXIII

English

XXXIV

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

STUDY SUCCESS

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Dear Student, It is a very good thing to begin to revise for your examination even from this day. Many students do not see the necessity to bother about topics or anything relating to examinations almost twelve months away, but a closer look at your present classroom performance will tell you now is the time to start. It is never too early to begin; revision can continue until very close to your examinations.

Avoid stress. Be wise.

Love you.

GRAMMAR It seems necessary that we look further into agreement of subject and verb. Because of the expediency, it is good to treat the three main causes of error in subject/verb agreement.

They are now listed for your convenience.

1. Mistaking a singular subject for a

plural and vice versa.

2. Failing to identify the true subject and making the verb agree with an apparent subject instead.

3. Treating the subject as singular in one place and as plural in another.

1. Singulars Mistaken for Plurals (and vice versa) a) ‘A pair of’ is singular. ? A pair of pliers was found near the broken fence. BUT ? Rubber-handled pliers are used by electricians. b) Some multiple subjects are singular. When sentence sense makes one of the elements in a multiple subject appear subordinate, then the subject is singular. ?The chief medical officer with his assistants is starting the investigation.

BUT ? The chief medical officer and his assistants are starting the investigation. c) ? The original land title, together with a forged copy, was put up as evidence. ? The prankster’s brother, as well as his sisters, was locked up for a couple

of years.

2. Finding the True Subject Most often finding the true subject is made difficult beUnder the bludgeonings of chance cause of ‘attraction.’ There are My head is bloddy, but unbowed. sentences with plural nouns or I am the master of my fate: pronouns standing between the I am the captain of my soul. true subject and its verb. This WILLIAM E. HENLEY (1849-1903) verb is often made plural when Invictus. In Mem. R.T.H.B. Pub. 1888 the true subject is singular because the writer is misguided by the plural noun or pronoun and probably gather information in note standing nearby. form. Choose basic characteristics like Here are examples of correctly where it lives, how it moves about, written sentences. Their true subjects what it eats, how it produces its young, are all collective nouns. and even how long it survives. Choose a) The blue box of Easter eggs sit- important points about its relations ting on the table was sent for. with dwellers who share the space; b) A collection of his paintings is record benefits and challenges. Is the now on display at the new museum. mammal a friend or foe; does it provide c) The herd of cows was led off to food, transportation, medicine, clothing, graze in the adjoining field. house-building material; is it inspiration Here is one other sentence. It is for making more effective weapons of correct. Its true subject is not a collec- protection. Include its guile, and some tive noun wherein lies the difficulty for lesser-known but need-to-know inforsome students. mation as story enhancers. d) The phrasing of some manual But there are other requisite skills instructions is easily misunderstood by you need to have up your sleeve besides ill-prepared trainees. that of information-gathering. You 3. Treating the Subject as Singular need word power for coining full and in One Place and as Plural in Another: interesting sentences with apt descripA case of collective nouns tions to capture your reader’s imagiThe collective noun can be used nation. Also, you need to write with a in a singular or plural sense according rhythm or tempo to keep expectations to the need of the writer. rising towards the crescendo.

If the subject is a group named by After all is put into place and your a collective noun as a whole - as one handiwork is done, read carefully thing - treat it as a singular sense and make necessary corrections only. a) The dining room suite has been unused for nearly twelve years and its SOMETHING TO DO chances of being eaten into by termites 1. Write an interesting story are very high. which features great interaction b) The jury has decided that the between a mammal in its natural accused is guilty. OR The jury has environment and the people who decided that it has found the accused dwell there too. Try to interweave guilty as charged. little-known but need-to-know inIf the writer is thinking about formation to further your reader’s separate individual objects that make up knowledge about both creature and the group named by the collective noun, dwellers. then the noun must be treated as plural.

2. Make each of the following For example: Occasional bouts of sentences below more interesting by loud comments and a steady stream of changing the words in bold type into washroom users indicated to the pro- something more descriptive. You and moters that the audience were restless. your study partners are permitted to NOTE: Consistency is the watch- change the sentence structure without word as this last example will indicate. changing the original meaning.

The singularity or plurality of a. In Africa baboons are now a great the collective noun subject affects threat to crops where the leopard has subsequent pronouns and possessive been killed off. adjectives as well as the verb(s). All b. Several studies in the field told the parts of speech must be treated in much about chimpanzees. the same way. Try to be consistent c. There has always been unknown always when using collective nouns. things about the seals on Antarctica whose remains have been found 20-30 IMPROVING WRITING miles from the coast and 2,000 feet up What good writing entails the glaciers.

You need to write a story featuring d. The pig in its natural state will a mammal of any known forest or land eat roots and stalks just the same with feature? All right; choose your creature leaves or fruits.

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019

Beef Patties Ingredients 1 lb ground beef 2 tsp canola oil 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 small onion, chopped 1 tbsp chopped thyme, 1 tsp finely chopped hot pepper 3 scallion, chopped 1 tsp black pepper salt to taste 1 egg yolk 1 tsp water 2/3 cup cold butter, cut into pieces 2/3 cup shortening 4 cups all purpose flour 3/4 cup water Instructions In a pot over a medium fire heat 2 tsp of canola oil. Saute onions and garlic until tender, add meat, thyme,diced pepper, black pepper, salt.

Cook for about 5 mins stirring to make sure meat doesn’t clump. Add 1/4 cup of water and cook for about 20 minutes, until the beef is tender.

Add scallion and cook for 2 mins. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

To make the pastry, in a large bowl add flour, butter and shortening and using your fingers rub the butter and shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice cold water and mix to form a soft dough. Form pastry into a disk then wrap with cling wrap then place into the fridge for 30 minutes.

To make the patties, roll pastry on a well floured surface and cut into 4 inch circles. Place pastry circle in tartlet pan. Dough should come all the way up the sides.

Place enough beef mixture to fill, do not overstuff.

In a small bowl mix egg yolk and water with a fork.

Baste the edges of the pastry with the egg wash then cover with another 4 inch circle of pastry and press edges together with a fork.

Brush tops with egg wash, prick with a fork and bake in a 375 degree oven for 20 mins or until golden brown.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing from tartlet pan and allow to cool before serving. jehancancook.com

XXXV

XXXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot October 6, 2019