Guyana Chronicle Pepper Pot E-paper 9-7-2020

SUNDAY, September 27, 2020

Son of Kairuni Village cassava bread maker, Debbie Daniels, placing freshly baked cassava bread to dry (Carl Croker photo)

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

20-year-old Tieanna Jordan

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By Naomi Parris

AVING grown up without the proverbial silver spoon in her mouth,

20-year-old Tieanna Jordan has always been a high achiever with big dreams for herself and her family.

The young, woman who recently started a career as a radio announcer, hails from a small village along the Linden Soesdkye Highway

called Kairuni, where she grew up with her parents and younger siblings.

Jordan, who is currently perusing Communications Studies at the University of Guyana, told the Pepperpot Magazine that she grew up not having much and was al-

ways satisfied with whatever h e r parents were able t o pro-

vide. This, she noted, has always given her a simple outlook on life and a greater appreciation for small gestures and things that may not seem like much in the eyes of others.

The young woman, who is a self-proclaimed introvert said, “I am a very quiet person. I was actually very shy which is something that I’m trying to get over now, I was

a very a quiet and shy person. I was never into public speaking and I love reading and I liked being with friends and family and I like meeting new people.”

While Jordan always had a knack for writing and an interest i n the

Turn to page XXII

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

The seawall area has seen a remarkable transformation, thanks to the efforts of the volunteers

Director of Solid Waste Management in Georgetown Walter Narine

By Telesha Ramnarine

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LOCAL group of volunteers, who go by the name of ‘Seawalls and Beyond’, is responsible for the remarkable transformation that the seawall area, especially in the vicinity of the Bandstand, has seen recently so far as garbage removal is concerned.

The volunteers, with a core of about 12, are supported by dozens of other Guyanese who turn out mainly on the weekends to lend a helping hand towards getting the area cleaned.

In fact, more than one hundred persons turned out last week!

The workers all volunteer their time, energy and resources because they especially love the seawall space and are frequent visitors for recreation and exercise purposes. They feel strongly about the need for the area to not only be cleaned, but restored to its pristine state.

It all started with a single person– a homeless man at that. A rake in hand, Carl Melville

got up one day and started cleaning all by himself. A few days later, Dwayne Hackett, who would later become the coordinator of the group, approached and conversed with him about the activity he was undertaking by himself.

Hackett, who dearly loves the seawall space and also wanted to do something about the deplorable state, joined Melville in cleaning.

The group grew and grew until it managed to gain the attention of several other persons and businesses – including Guyana’s First Lady, Arya Ali, who invited the group to discuss how her office can lend support.

“I was always worried about the garbage that is built up there and I thought how I can

be part of the solution, so when I saw Carl, it really touched me,” Hackett told the Pepperpot Magazine.

He took to social media to write about his experience with Carl and the post went viral.

Ever since then, the group has successfully managed to clean the entire stretch from Camp Street, all the way to the Demerara River.

“Since the beginning of August to now, we have removed about 12 to 15 dumpster loads full of trash. The stretch from Camp Street to the river is about one kilometer, and it really took a lot of work to remove all that waste that was built up there for over two years,” he reflected.

No one, it seems, takes strict responsibility for the cleaning of the seawall area – not the

The workers give of their time, energy and resources in getting the job done

Volunteers mostly come out on the weekends

Carl Melville inspired others to join his efforts when he started cleaning the seawall by himself

Mayor and City Council (M&CC), not the Ministry of Public Works, and not even the vendors who operate on the tarmac! Under the previous administration, a contract was in place for the cleaning of the area once per week, but that reportedly became insufficient.

The new minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar, however, has already been contacted on the issue by Head of the Solid Waste Management Department at M&CC Walter Narine.

“No one takes responsibility…but everyone wants to enjoy the space,” observed Hackett, adding, “You’d think the vendors out there would see the value of a beautiful space but they themselves…would not even empty the bins.”

Hackett feels that the government agencies responsible need to take up the mantle so that a sustainable solution can be found. “How long we would be able to continue doing this is a good question,” he said.

But whose responsibility is it to clean the seawall space? Hackett himself is not so sure.

In an invited comment, the Solid Waste Director clarified the issue. According to him, the laws governing the City Council make provision for land and drains, but have nothing to do with sea. “Anything, in terms of sea defence, we are not responsible. The laws border Georgetown… and Georgetown is bordered by Young Street, where TSU Compound is, straight up to Water Street coming back.”

Hence, Georgetown does not include the seawall area. “This is the responsibility of the Ministry of Public Works or the Sea Defence Unit as they would call it,” explained Narine, who said he is looking forward to tackling the seawall issues in partnership with the ministry.

So far, Narine has been assisting the volunteer group in the form of technical advice, garbage bags and skip bins. “Beginning soon, we will provide a collection system because New GPC donated 12 drums. We will clear those bins and the others.”

Narine has also contacted the Guyana Fire Service for help to wash the bandstand area, as well as Minister Indar on the possible removal of the vendors from the tarmac to ensure that the area is left for recreation and exercise purposes.

“That area has a lot of potential to become a tourism hub in Georgetown. At the end of the day, it’s Georgetown. My goal and responsibility is to address it the problem,” Narine said, even if this means that he has to personally go out on the seawall and speak to visitors about the need to take home their garbage and avoid littering.

He believes that providing such education can go a far way in dealing with the scourge of littering.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

Owner of Kayawen, Sheena Scipio, posing with a piece of jewellery from her business

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By Jared Liddell

NDIGENOUS craft has always been admired and sought after. From the paintings to the handmade pieces of jewellery and

handbags, the detailing that goes into every piece and the culture of the indigenous people that is captured in each piece have always drawn the attention of many Guyanese. Local Company Kayawen Jew-

ellery has recently joined the creative scene to share the indigenous culture through craft.

Owner of Kayawen Jewellery, Sheena Scipio, stated that she created the business after noticing that there weren’t a lot of businesses producing authentic indigenous craft and jewellery. She added that after noticing that one of her favourite pieces of jewellery came from heritage month a few years ago and it was difficult for her to find any more. She said this pushed her to find several creatives from the Rupununi and bring them together to make pieces for her business.

Scipio told the Pepperpot Magazine that in recruiting persons to be a part of her creative team, she decided to create a space for persons

in all the indigenous tribes to ensure that her business showcases the different styling and craft techniques of indigenous craft creation.

Scipio stated that the name she chose for the business Kayawen is an indigenous word that means Sky Valley. She said that in addition to being used as a channel for showcasing indigenous art, she uses her business to create jobs for the indigenous people through their utilisation of the skills they already possess.

Further, she said that while her business has picked up momentum since its launch one month ago, it wasn’t without challenges in its initial stages explaining.

“Finding people to make the jewellery was a bit difficult.

Some of them I had to invest and supply them with materials and tools. Then I had to deal with quality control, style and beauty of the product. I also wanted to ensure that all my creators used all natural products that were sustainable, as well as I had to make sure no animals were harmed for the creation of these pieces,”

she said.

Scipio stated that she believes indigenous jewellery and craft are beautiful and with the cultural meaning behind them, she believes it is something that should be shared with the rest of Guyana. She

added that she would encourage any other young creative indigenous person to “be proud of their culture” and to “be creative” in sharing their culture, and to keep pushing any idea they may have for sharing their craft.

Sheena Scipio

One of the colourful neckpieces made by Kayawen Jewellery

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

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By Alisa Lashley

N this generation the word “empowered” is defined through varying gestures. Whether it be the likes of individuals, flipping a cheque and becoming their own bosses or aiding others with the tools to do so, it is without a doubt that today’s young women have transcended the ancient norm and are becoming more innovative given the wide array of women-owned small businesses that are emerging every day.

Hailing from the minning town of Linden, one such young woman is 22-year-old Denacia Angelique Jordan, who is the owner Trendy styles _592 and the founder of the “Chic in Business” initiative. After completing her secondary education, Denacia commenced working with her aunt, who owns a variety store in Linden. After a while, she sought employment elsewhere and became a teller at Republic Bank’s Linden branch, where she would learn more about online shopping, how to use a Visa card and money management skills- all tools that would later aid her in the development of her business.

A leap of faith Growing up, Denacia expressed that she had always had a knack for business and after two years of working at the bank, she was later motivated to venture into the world of entrepreneurship.

‘As a single parent, I decided to launch my business idea in January of this year, two months before the current pandemic. After creating my business pages and working towards a smooth launch, I can vividly remember asking family and friends to share m y page via their social media p l a t forms as a

means of marketing my business, Owner of Trendy but some met styles and mdirector e w i t hof othe nly words of discour“Chic in Business” inniative, agement.

For a moDenacia Jordan ment, I was really

discouraged and I wanted to cancel this venture until things returned to normalcy. But I remembered that my mom would always say it’s better to try and fail than fail to try, so I took the leap of faith and in this has been six months of starting trendy_styles592, I honestly don’t regret the decision I made,” she articulated.

V THE ROAD TO SUCCESS Denacia described the first few months of being in business as a rocky road because of the few setbacks she endured during that period. “ I had experienced a few challenges especially when it came to clearing goods from shipping companies I previously worked with. The cost to clear goods was often times high and I would have to use my personal funds to clear items. After a while, I gained better knowledge and learnt new business tactics that help me in managing my business , in the best way I can,” she said.

Turn to Denacia futher expressed that page XXVIII now, she spends most of her time managing her business and taking

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

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HERE are numerous, well-ventilated disparities within the education sector of Guyana. It can be argued, however, that the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, and its resulting pandemic exacerbated those disparities and disadvantaged the nation’s children even further.

This past week, the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) released this year’s results for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). The results of this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) were also released, just a day before.

Yearly, the release of these results allows for a microscope to be placed over the education sector and its various components, at least while ‘story’ is still topical. The challenges hinterland and rural students face, largely due to the geographical spaces they are in, represent one of those prominent disparities.

According to Statista, a German company specialising in market and consumer data, Guyana had an internet penetration rate of 37.33 percent in 2017. What that means was that less than 40 per cent of Guyana’s population, then, had access to and were using the internet. Datareportal, an online platform which summarises third-party data to illustrate trends and provide insights, indicated that as of January 2020, 55 per cent of the population or approximately 430,000 persons were using the internet. Comparatively, the Caribbean Region has a 60 per cent internet-penetration rate, while South America has a 72 per cent rate.

The data made available did not provide a breakdown of internet penetration via geographical regions. It is well ventilated, however, that rural and hinterland communities are challenged by the lack of ICT infrastruc-

ture and services.

The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a paradigm shift in teaching and learning. Schools have been closed as part of the attempts to mitigate the spread and impact of the virus, thereby forcing novel pedagogical measures. Pedagogy in the virtual space is no longer that method of teaching that we are gradually working towards integrating into the schooling system. Virtual learning is challenging when you don’t have the infrastructure and resources to support it.

In the absence of quantitative data to guide decision analyses, I would like to present some qualitative information to further illustrate the challenges of pupils, students, and teachers in rural and hinterland communities.

A few months ago, when the CXC was still mulling over the format its examinations would take and how they would be administered, I managed to speak with two teachers in Aishalton, Region Nine, and one teacher from the Black Bush Polder, Region Six. In Region Nine, the two teachers explained that virtual learning was a challenge because students and teachers alike did not have adequate or effective smart devices to engage in learning and they did not have a fixed and dependable internet source. These challenges were compounded by the reality that many of the students attending the schools in the region hailed from satellite communities and were living in dorms, at or close to the school’s compound. With the closure of schools, back into those far-flung areas they were forced to go.

One teacher told me that she tried to organise classes via WhatsApp; she would share photographs of the work she wanted her students to complete and would collect that and review it from the students.

Aside from students not having internet access at all, many of the students were not enthused about ‘WhatsApp classes’ and

were not responsive. Instead, this teacher had to make worksheets and travelled great distances to take it to her students. But even that was a challenge, as she didn’t have enough for each student, and was forced to circulate the few she had.

In Black Bush Polder, the same lack of internet access and the need for printed worksheets were the same.

I believe that occurrences such as these undermine the education of pupils and students, and frankly, as a student myself, I would not be the least bit motivated to learn anything. Now, imagine the strain of having to write these ‘high-stakes’ examinations such as the NGSA, CSEC, and CAPE under these increasingly frustrating circumstances. It is just not fair.

While a friend and I were rejoicing this past week that our alma maters, the Stella Maris and North Georgetown Primary schools (‘de avenue’ schools) secured the top spots for the NGSA, we also recognised that fewer hinterland students occupied the top positions.

Though the information we were discussing was only the top one per cent of the country, my friend expressed her dismay at this, voicing her opinion that the COVID-19 pandemic had exacerbated those pre-existing challenges for students in the hinterland.

I am inclined to believe that this was the case, as I am not aware of any largescale intervention fostered to provide a nexus for those disparities in education.

These pupils and students will go down in history as the set of learners who wrote these ‘highstakes’ examinations under extremely disorienting and challenging times.

And for me, that, more than anything else, is what we should be proud of.

It is up to people like me who write, to highlight their plight and hope that people who can do things will foster data-driven interventions to attenuate those disparities.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

TO DEVELOP AN INNOVATIVE CREATIVE BUSINESS WITHOUT COPYRIGHT LEGISLATION IS IMPOSSIBLE

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OST of our older businesses in British Guiana go far back, with origins during the colonial era, so their entities did safely acquire their trademarks on products with international recognition.

Many of our late ‘70s – ‘80s businesses fell into the socialism period when copyright was misguidedly construed as bourgeoisie and capitalist and the lapses began. Indeed, it was the latter reference

tried in an intimate atmosphere etc. All new innovative products of the mind and skills are entitled to copyright protection.

Copyright and its detailed laws exist to protect and provide incentives to persons in the Humanities, Sciences and Arts, and to enable such persons to produce outside of constantly having to guard against plagiarism, piracy and especially in the area of the local producer who in the expansion of new work must provide production employment or waste months doing it alone, well aware that no laws over such employees exist,

realities facing us. Oil cannot or should not create a comfort zone that implies that competitiveness in every area should lapse.

Oil should ensure that human expertise is allowed to expand the latent potential of its talents and skills into new sustainable and established economic organisms. America is the pioneer of the petroleum industry, yet its economic force lies in expanding the innovativeness of its citizens. The world is always in debate about its foreign policy, but its creative industries is a potent ambassador that has found its way into the souls

and throughout the political and corporate anatomy of Guyana, he was in the majority.

The unique nature of copyright as an effective tool can be captured in the following case study: During WWII and before then, graphics played an important role as a propaganda tool, comic books, posters all that was viable then and so did copyright law. Frenchman Edmond Calvo was the artist of the cartoon series, ‘The Beast is dead,’ the Nazis were captured as wolves. It was published in two volumes in 1944-45, but not because it was an an-

to capitalism that is true with the principles of copyright. Nations of the old world traded cloth, swords and items of worth through barter and exchange of valuables, but across the trading continents of Africa, Europe and Asia. They kept secrets of weaving, metalworking and even agricultural methods within guilds and secret societies (equivalent of harsh copyright modes). Maps and knowledge of trade routes were punishable by death if illegitimately dispersed without authority. With the advent of the printing industry, laws of protection were issued in 17th century England, and then continental Europe, the first semblances towards modern copyright law emerged.

Protection by law, of ideas, whether diagrams, textual, artwork, literature, musical manuscripts, computer programme design, jewellery design, recipes, Industrial designs of products produced and

even if caught. That is the predicament of the local producer in every creative industry field.

I have a close friend who’s a jeweller.

First he’s robbed by a fashion designer, then he discovers that every jewellery concept he comes up with is pirated, even misrepresenting his name in the vicious cycle as part of his jewellery shop. I had done some work for him. When he decided to exit the skill that he had honed for years and earn in a more mundane and pedestrian field, he gave me back the sketched ideas and I sadly watched him call it a day. The same complaint is repeated in the leathercraft field; this is the only CARICOM nation where a blind eye is turned away from the local innovative industries with respect to the human parasites who plague them.

The fact is that Guyana cannot remain isolated. Old ideological ideas long redundant have to live up to the stark commercial

of nations that disagree with its geopolitical nature, and that’s a powerful achievement.

We’re new in the nation business. Small, but blessed with creative citizens. This sector must be allowed to emerge on its own platform, the excuses and past retreat modes cannot stand up to any sensible debate as we progress to the post-COVID-19 world. Guyana remains defined in the minds of its creative people but not to most of its citizens. The process that cultivates a grounded national imagination remains behind the curtain. I recall the experience of a past Education Minister who visited Japan and was enticed by a painting, to which he made pleasing comments to his host who, smiling, replied that on his visit to Guyana he was presented with the painting as a gift by the protocol officer. The minister was honest, as he later confessed on his return that he couldn’t even recognise the name of the artist. The minister was not alone,

imal-based cartoon publication meant that it was cuddly. It was as violent as the times it portrayed, and it became very popular until Disney sued him for the design of the wolf’s snouts, which he had to change. -see ‘Comic Art Propaganda. A Graphic History’ by Fredrik Stromberg. This book is necessary for anyone interested in the genre; it also requires that a good knowledge of world issues be an asset, as it highlights stereotyping, religion, sexuality, illustrated advertising and various political and social references captured in comic book and cartoon art over the 100 years.

What copyright brings into focus in the area of books, is the demand for local content in schools, edutainment and aesthetic literature for the local market and the export shelves. Either we act, or imports will define us anyway, for the imagination is a powerful force and it needs to be fed.

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By Francis Quamina Farrier

HAVE lost another long-time friend to the COVID-19 pandemic. Brilliant Guyanese-born, England-based actor Gordon Case lost his brave battle with the coronavirus and took his final bow on life’s stage, after ‘starring’ for just a little over the biblical allotted three score and 10 years of life. Today, September 27, 2020, he would have been celebrating his 72nd birthday. But instead of “Happy Birthday” greetings and congratulations, it is sad condolences to his relatives, friends and colleagues.

Gordon Case, like Jimmy Bacchus, Billy Braithwaite, Hewley Harris, Michael Gilkes, Pat Thompson and other Guyanese whom I have known for many years, have all died of complications due to COVID-19 -- a nasty and merciless killer disease which continues to take countless lives worldwide.

As of Friday September 25, there are about 32 million people infected with the virus globally and already 985,000 deaths.

The two countries with the highest number of fatalities are The United States of America with 203,000 and Brazil with 140,000 deaths. In the United Kingdom, a developed country with a population of 68 million, there are now 423,000 cases and 41,936 deaths. Sadly, a number of Guyanese residing in the UK are among the dead, including my friend and theatre colleague of over five decades, Gordon Case.

The COVID-19 hit the United Kingdom extremely hard. Even Buckingham Palace and the British House of Parliament were not spared visits from the killer disease. Fortunately, it was not successful in causing deaths in those two august English structures and both Prince Charles and Prime Minister Boris Johnson who had tested positive, regained their health. More recently,

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

the British Prime Minister expressed the view that the UK may experience a second wave of the COVID-19 virus as the winter months creep up and further lamented that the country does not have enough testing capacity at this time. However, Prime Minister Boris Johnson further stated that “500,000 tests will be

Guyanese-born celebrated British actor, Gordon Case

available daily by the end of October.”

In writing about the life and theatre career of the late Gordon Case, I find it important to mention just a little about his family background. His father, Frederick W. Case, was a former Director of Education in British Guiana (now Guyana). In fact, Frederick W. Case was the very first Guyanese to have been appointed to that high post in colonial British Guiana. Previously, only Englishmen were considered educated enough by the Colonial establishment to hold that post. Then along came F. W. Case, a most respected, revered and highly educated senior public servant in the field of education when I was in my teen years. At that time, he was already blazing a trail for the development of education in his native country from the lowest to the highest level. Frederick W. Case, was also the father of Hamley Case, a well-known businessman who was also keen in the performing arts, writing the script and producing one of Guyana’s feature films, “AGGRO SEIZEMAN” in which his brother Gordon Case played the title role. Hamley Case also served Guyana in the diplomatic service and recently retired as Guyana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK) and accredited to a few other European countries, including Iceland and Estonia.

During his long and impressive acting career in England, Gordon Case was involved in quite a number of successful theatre productions. He also graced television screens as well as the big cinema screens, appearing in a few movies; “AGGRO: SEIZEMAN” being one of the celebrated films. Shot in his native Guyana, South America, the film was directed by American Jimmy Turn to Manus. page XIX Playing the crafty and tough Alexander “Aggro” Grant in that

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

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N a previous column some time ago, I wrote about eating disorders which are serious and often overlooked mental illnesses. I will focus on Bulimia in this column, as it is a very serious disorder.

An individual with Bulimia will have periods of binging which is excessive overeating for either short or long periods of time. Someone with Bulimia feels as though they cannot control their eating. Even worse, they eat for many reasons, hunger being just one. Particularly, their eating habits are aligned with their emotions. We call this emotional eating which means they turn to food when they are upset or sad in any way.

I t means that food is their coping

mechanism just like alcohol or marijuana is to a drug user.

It is a difficult illness to understand, as while there is intense overeating, there is also the intense fears of being overweight. This fear paradoxically makes the individual eat more.

The overeater knows that guilt and shame come after a binge, but it feels like an uncontrollable compulsion; a vicious cycle.

The most dangerous thing about Bulimia is that it is the hardest eating disorder to identify. This is because most people with Bulimia are of average weight as bulimics use extreme methods of attempting to remove the food from

the body such as purging (purposely throwing up), laxatives, weight-loss pills, illegal drugs or extreme and unsafe exercise.

It is important for you all to know that throwing up or using laxatives is not an effective way to lose weight-- which is why bulimics are typically of average weight. This is because calorie absorption happens the moment food enters the mouth, so any extreme way of removing it from the body won’t even take away 50 per cent of the calories consumed.

Bulimia causes a wide range of physical and mental health issues. The excessive eating, purging or exercise can place a massive amount of stress on both the mind and body.

The daily vomiting leads to staining of the teeth, erosion or

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the enamel of teeth and even extreme tooth decay. It can also lead to inflammation and infection of the throat. The issue is, if you often throw up after eating, your body gets used to this activity and it becomes a normal bodily response to food. Which means you may not even want to throw up, but you will.

Someone with Bulimia is often dehydrated and diagnosed with ulcers or low blood pressure. In extreme cases, the dangerous Turn to activity can cause strain on our hearts, which can result in heart page XXVII palpitations, heart arrhythmia, heart attacks and even death. It

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

Kevin Williams (wearing red cap) and his friends

Focus on the Village

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By Michel Outridge

HIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the community of Kairuni which is located on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

It is between Loo Creek and Silver Hill and it is home to 420 residents, most of whom are Amerindians.

The locals of Kairuni Village came from Region One (Barima-Waini) and settled there more than 50 years ago when the highway was being built.

One of the two first settlers, Mary Bowry, still resides in the community. She and her sister were the first people to live there.

However, her sister has since passed away and Bowry is 83 years old; most of her family and relatives reside in the hillside village.

The people of Kairuni Village are coal-miners, art and craft makers, labourers, farmers, woodcutters, poultry farmers and self-employed folk with small and budding businesses.

The village runs deep from the highway way down to the Demerara River, and it has a natural feel of calm and serenity.

There is a trail that leads through the village and in the centre of the community, on a hill, there is the ballfield which

serves as a space for sports activities and other social events.

The village gives the feel of a sanctuary with trees that are plentiful and plants which complement the environment.

It is also punctuated with benabs, small, well-kept shops and houses that make the village quite picturesque.

drinking and when it doesn’t rain, they buy drinking water or use the creek water for household purposes.

They don’t have any internet connection except for data usage on their cellphones.

The village has a nursery school, while the nearest secondary school is in Linden and there is no health facility.

The closest health post is a village away in Silver Hill.

There are two churches in

Kairuni Village (Carl Croker photos)

There is a creek in Kairuni village that sits below a hill which is known for the coolest water and it is quite a scenic place to visit.

The community is one of the cleanest and the structures are well-painted and things are organised.

There is no electricity or potable water supply in this community, but residents make do with small solar panels and generators.

The people depend on rainfall for cooking and

the village.

The people do their bulk shopping in Linden and sometimes in the city since transportation is costly.

The farmer of Kairuni The Pepperpot Magazine met Kevin Williams, a farmer who was with his fellow villagers by the highway at a shop

enjoying some refreshments on a humid day.

The 50-year-old, a mild-mannered man, disclosed that life is rather good if you work and with yourself.

He added that he has been a villager for the past four years and the plot he occupies, he utilises it to plant ground provisions and vegetables and rear some ducks which he would sell to offset personal expenses.

Williams hails from the North West District, but spent most of his time in the city and on the East Bank of Demerara.

He is self-employed and is quite happy he is not working for others and does so on his own time.

“I was a captain on a fishing trawler for 17 years, so I spent a lot of time in the Atlantic Ocean and as I became more mature I wanted to work for myself, so I quit that job and retired as a farmer,” he said.

Williams would also cut wood and burn coals to sell, but described life as quiet and simple.

“Things not easy here, but you have to make it work for you; you have to do something to earn, because there are no real jobs here, you have to generate your income with a small business or farm,” he said.

At that time, he was with his dog, Katy, which he takes with him everywhere because of the wild animals that would prey on livestock and dogs.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

Focus on the Village

“The Parkway Shop”

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Alexis Spencer and her sons (Carl Croker photos)

By Michel Outridge OUNG Nicholas Klass is making use of the opportunity his father has given to him and he is in charge of running the family business, a small but well-stocked and well-kept

shop.

The shop is located just off the highway at Kairuni Village, Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

The shop is a wooden cottage-style structure with a verandah which houses a pool table and some tibisiri chairs.

Inside the shop, over the counter, they have a wide range of groceries and beverages on sale.

The little shop has just about everything that is needed in the home.

Klass, 17, who will be celebrating his 18th birth anniversary next month, said he is from Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and he was left in charge of the shop.

He is assisted by his two female cousins

been there ever since.

The small business opens from 06:00hrs to 18:00hrs daily and on weekends, it is the busiest when passers-by and others would stop in for a cold beverage or to make much-needed purchases.

“Being here, I am able to cope because I find it very interesting and I like meeting new people and since most of the residents are my relatives, I feel quite s a f e and at peace,” he said.

Some-

Nicholas Klass’ helpers, his cousins

while his father is away in the interior working as a miner.

Klass stays in living quarters that adjoin the shop and in the yard, there are toilet and washroom facilities, a bar-b-que grill and adequate sitting area with tables and chairs under the trees and a hammock too, for relaxation purposes.

The young man told the Pepperpot Magazine that the shop opened a year ago and he has

Nicholas Klass

times on weekends, Klass would return to his Tuschen home, but he likes it at Kairuni because the place is beautiful despite challenges of accessing water and electricity; they have a black tank and a generator in place to make things easier.

The shop is referred to as “The Parkway Shop” and it is a neat little well-constructed edifice that has a welcoming and cosy feel.

MAKING DO IN KAIRUNI VILLAGE Next door to this shop live Nigel Marshal and his extended family.

They have a small wooden house in which they reside and try to cope with the little they have.

T h e 48-year-old who is of ill health is unable to work and is assisted by h i s wife a n d

from the North West District and left there when he was young and relocated to various villages along the highway before he settled in Kairuni.

“Life hasn’t been kind, but we try and being ill and unable to work is not easy, but life goes on and we have to fetch water from the creek which is a mile away and we use a small solar [panel] to power a light bulb in the night,” he said.

Marshal added that there aren’t jobs in that village, so many people have to go out for work and they would utilise what they have in the community to earn.

ALEXIS SPENCER AND HER BOYS This mother of two will someday open her own small business, a bakery, since she is certified and it is her dream to have her own business.

She is a resident of Kairuni, but her hometown is Malai, Upper Demerara River, a riverine community.

The 23-year-old left her village for high school and after completion of her secondary education, she began to work.

She exited her village at age 11 and would go to her home every now and then, but it is very expensive for the boat ride to get there.

Presently, she is unable to work since she has to take care of two small children and will return to work when the children are old enough.

She was the personal assistant for a businessman who operates a large-scale importing company out of Canal #1.

Spencer currently resides Nigel Marshal, his son and with her extended family of a villager at his home 13 and was relaxing under a shed not far from her home children. after completing some chores.

The father of six would often sit by his “I just came out to get some breeze, since front door as he was that day, observing what it was a hot day with my boys, Azria, who is his son and another man were doing. two years old and Arizel, who is six months They were repairing an engine and at the old and it is our usual liming spot,” she said. same time engaged in friendly banter to pass The father of her children is away in the time. the hinterland working as a miner and she Like almost all of the villagers, he hails eagerly awaits his return.

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By Michel Outridge

Joy Ann (Carl Croker photos)

Focus on the Village

T

HE people of K a i r u n i Vi l lage are of the opinion that 22-year-old Joy Ann, who is the Village Leader will foster development within the community, thus, enhancing their lives.

She is the head of the Community Development Council (CDC) among a membership of 30 villagers, most of whom are young and they first started a group called the Kairuni Visionary Group.

This group started a year ago and they would do weekend clean-ups of the village, among other things.

According to Ann, when the group was formed they had a vision for developing the community, but had no real direction but after some consensus and analysing the needs of the people, they came together for a common cause.

She reported that their main focuses are to get a place for the youths to meet for activities; a community centre which is non-existent in the village; a better playfield for sporting activities and an ICT hub for the schoolchildren and young people to access information.

Ann added that they were given a run-down building which was the old nursery school and once renovated, they will use it for the ICT hub to accommodate computers, which they presently do not have.

Even though the village comes under the Region Four administration, they usually get more cooperation from Region 10, since it is closer in terms of transportation and other facilities such as schools.

“Our village is large with a population of 420 and there is a need for a health outpost here and this community is divided into two sections that is, uphill and downhill and [they are]separated by a bridge,” she said.

She related that her parents have a small shop and she would assist, since there are no permanent jobs in the village; her father is a farmer and a coal-miner while, her mother is a housewife, who enjoys gardening.

She has three siblings and the youngest is a spritely child named Rose, who is three years old.

Ann, who was born and raised in the village, stated that most people who reside in Kairuni are related because her grandmother and her sister were the first settlers in the community.

She disclosed that the community started developing 30 years ago when more people relocated there from Region One. Kairuni Village has a lot of young people between the ages of 25 to 10 years old and 70 per cent of the population are very young with just about six elders.

Ann told the Pepperpot Magazine that the village was called Elizabeth and a creek runs right through the community.

She admitted that they have seen some form of development, but it is slow and with a processing plant with all the fresh fruits and vegetables that grow in the village, jobs can be created for villagers.

Despite the hardships of highway living, the place is perfect for a quiet family life of sol-

itude and peace and full of nature, which is practically unspoiled.

Ann explained that to raise funds they would charge a fee of $2,000 per vendor when there is an event and the money garnered goes towards the upkeep of the village.

Cleaning of the community is done either on Wednesdays or Saturdays, and the group is working towards getting a place to have meetings.

The ballfield, she said, is used to play volleyball and cricket mostly and the youths of the village utilise it.

Although Ann was a facilitator of the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) programme in her village, she was unable to make her dream of attending the University of Guyana (UG) become a reality, because her family simply could not afford it.

She wanted to study food science to promote agriculture in her village, in order to eventually start a manufacturing and food-processing venture, since there is large-scale cassava cultivation there.

“There are a lot of things I would like to do for my village, but without money, there isn’t much I can do, but with the resources I have I am making much to foster development within this village,” she said.

Ann also functions as a counsellor among her peers and would lend a helping hand in any project within the village at any given time.

“We are really trying to enhance our lives here with what we have and if we get a little help in terms of the ICT hub, we will ensure it is used for the purpose intended, because it is essential to be informed of what’s happening within our country and farther afield,” s h e said.

Joy Ann’s home and shop in Kairuni Village Joy Ann’s sister, Rose

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By Michel Outridge

ARY Bowry and her sister were the early settlers of Kairuni Village more than 50 years ago when the Soesdyke/Linden Highway was being built.

Today, most of their families reside there in relative peace and harmony, making use of their lives and seeking opportunities to enhance their community.

The 83-year-old is taking it one day at a time these days because she has severe pains in both feet, having suffered a fall, she was injured and never fully recovered.

Bowry told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is originally from Region One but lived in Demerara River before relocating to Kairuni Village.

The mother of 12 said life wasn’t easy, but she worked in her younger days at the agriculture farm, now the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI) farm, on the highway for many years before she retired when her children were grown.

“When I came here with my sister there was nothing here, no houses, just jungle and we started living here and it later developed into a village when more people came to

settle,” she said.

Bowry said she and her sister used to farm in the creek and they were able to sell their produce to earn back in those days when the village was called Elizabeth Creek.

She resided overseas for some time and returned to her home in Kairuni, where her son and a daughter-in-law are living with her.

“I does do things for myself, but my daughter-in-law would do the cooking because I can’t stand up for long and I used a walking stick to aid me,” she said.

Bowry says she is basking in her golden years and it is the only place she wants to be -- home, that is.

DELICIOUS CASSAVA BREAD Debbie Daniels is a mother of six who lived all her life in the village and her mother, who is deceased, was one of two sisters, who were the first settlers in Kairuni.

Daniels and her family have a small business making cassava bread and pure cassava casareep, which they sell within the village to earn.

The 53-year-old cultivates her own cassava, which is used to make the cassava bread and casareep.

They have a few acres of bitter cas-

sava which they harvest every six months.

Daniels used to make the cassava bread and cassava casareep the old-fashioned way which is time-consuming and entails hard labour.

As such, her sons got an idea to make some equipment to extract the juice from the cassava and another machine to grind it.

This process is beneficial and the family business is budding, but they need a market for the cassava bread and casareep.

“All credit must go to my children; my sons came up with the idea and they spent a long time to put together the machines and today it is very useful and takes less time than usual to make cassava bread and casareep,” she said.

Daniels would make 200 pounds of cassava bread weekly, and her children would go around in the village, door to door, on their motorcycles to sell it “Well life is what you make it, because there are no jobs here and we have to make provision for ourselves by doing things that will bring in an income and it is not an easy task,” she said.

Daniels reported that the process of making cassava bread starts from harvesting, after which the skin is taken off and it

Focus on the Village

is then washed to be placed in the machine to grind.

After that, the juice is extracted, placed in storage then it is boiled; that product is used to make cassava casareep and the husk from the cassava is used to make cassava bread.

Daniels related that once the cassava bread is baked on the tawa (pan on which the cassava bread is baked over fire) over fire, it is placed in the sun to dry making it crispy, after which it is placed in a ‘salt’ bag for storage and it is well-preserved and would last a while without getting mildewed.

The mother of six stated that she lived all her life in the village, given her roots.

“I have no intention of moving because life is simple; you have to work to survive and we are doing just that,” she said.

Daniels reported that her sons made the machines to make work easier for her two years ago and everything is going well.

She disclosed that she would like to expand her business one day, but they cannot get a loan because they don’t have land titles for the land they occupy.

As such, they are making the most of what they have to earn and provide for their family.

Freshly baked cassava bread placed to be sun-dried before packaging

Cassava cultivation in Debbie Daniels’ yard (Carl Croker photos)

Village Leader Joy Ann and her grandmother, Mary Bowry

Machines used to make work easy in the making of cassava bread and casareep

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Focus on the Village

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By Michel Outridge

OMETIMES a good oasis is what some of us need to unwind and let nature relieve us of the unwanted burdens of everyday life and the ideal place to do just that is Kairuni Village.

There, Vincent Daniels has developed a lovely setting in his village to welcome anyone who needs to getaway even for a day to experience some relaxation in a hammock; adequate shade under some tibisiri benabs; a bar area and a sitting section with handmade chairs and tables.

It sits just a few minutes away from the coldest creek, a nice spot for a dip, in the village which is quite an attraction.

The 55-year-old is a surveyor by profession, but wears many hats because he is talented and can do many things which includes: promotion of culture in his community, a massage therapist, a herbal healer, a wood and gold prospector and a skilled craftsman.

Daniels would take it upon himself annually to organise and host the Amerindian Heritage celebrations, but due to COVID-19, a small ceremony was held to observe this year’s celebration.

It was held on Saturday last and local cuisine and beverages were on sale; a few villagers participated.

He is a resident of Kairuni Hilltop, an area he developed into a garden-like oasis that is so welcoming and has a very natural feel to it.

So much so, you will want to spend some time there without being interrupted by just looking at the many trees, plants and other natural things found in that environment The place is very clean and tidy and is maintained by Daniels, whose house sits just down a hill.

The father of three told the Pepperpot Magazine that life there is nice, because he has a lot of open space, fresh air and it is not crowded, and he likes the peace and quiet as is.

As such, once you visit there he will not tolerate loud and offensive behaviour and you must clean up after yourself.

Daniels has taken the time to beautify the place with lovely hand-crafted chairs and tables carved out of trunks of trees and other handicraft he skilfully made.

These hand-made craft pieces serve as a natural décor for the outdoor setting, which complements nature.

In terms of being a herbal healer, Daniels disclosed that he used to reside with his sister, who was versed in that field and he learned a lot from her over the years.

She helped him to identify many plants and trees in the environment that has healing and health benefits.

Back then, they used to live along the bank of the Demerara River before they relocated to Kairuni Village to settle.

“Plants can heal you and you have to know which to use and how to use it,” he said.

Daniels reported that he spent nine years to beautify the place which can become a tourist spot and there is enough space to accommodate both locals and tourists.

“I have plans to spruce up the creek area and make it more welcoming, so when people come they will feel good about the environment and this place,” he said.

Even though he is not a very talkative person, he has a built-in friendliness to him that draws people to his retreat.

“All are welcome here and I plan to get registered with the Tourism and Hospitality Authority for this place to become a spot for visitors; it is as nice as you can see and I want others to experience it as well,” he said.

This hilltop spot is not widely known to many people, since a small trail which is practically hidden, just off the highway, leads to this place; once you get there you will be in awe.

Vincent Daniels displaying his craft

Vincent Daniels relaxing in his hammock (Carl Croker photos)

The creek

The Kairuni Village oasis

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

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By Marissa Victoria Foster

HE Green Creatives Team has successfully made it to the final stage of the Generation Unlimited Youth Challenge 2.0 hosted in Guyana by THE United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This means that the team is officially competing with the other 88 nations around the world who are participating in the competition. During the week of August 20, they completed sample-testing of their app before they had an official launch. The app will be available in the Apple Store and Google Play Store at the end of the sample-testing. Their mentors thus far include names such as: Ms. Lyndell Danzie-Black from Cerulean Inc, Dr. Rosh Khan from Social-

The Green Thumb Creatives Team (Photo courtesy of Nareema Khan)

Rank Media and Dr. Vishnu Doerga from Action Coach.

As more resources become available they will include more mentors as well as many more features to their initiative.

They have also successfully completed 60 app-orientation sessions and have heeded all of the recommendations for future development and growth. The team members of this creative trio include: Ms. Khadidja Ba, President/ Research and Communication personnel; Ms. Nareema Khan, Public Relations and Marketing personnel and Mr. Deopaul Somwaru, App and development personnel. The team was tasked with first coming up with a solution to the problem of many youth and small business owners not knowing how to elevate themselves from having an unstructured or informal business to a formal business.

Their solution is the Green Thumb Creatives App that follows the one-stop-shop approach. The app would facilitate business and self-development coaching; provide online marketing/branding training and showcase funding opportunities for them as well. As resources become available, this list will grow exponentially. They have successfully passed the Pitch and Incubation stages and are now well on their way to do their final presentation in New York at the UN headquarters.

The committed team is now fostering relationships with the private and public sectors. The Green Thumb Creatives Team have reached out to varying ministries, including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and sport; the Ministry of Local Government as well as regional development, among others. They are also hoping to meet with the First Lady of Guyana, Arya Ali. They would like to do so by the month of October, so as to officially launch the app to all platforms.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

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T’S that time of year again when the National Grade Six Assessments and CSEC examinations results are out. It’s also that time of year when debates arise on the topic of our schooling and education system. From last week to now, there are ongoing debates in the comment sections of statuses on social media about “Which school is better?” “What school has the best systems in place?” “How undermined and neglected are certain schools in Guyana?” The list certainly goes on and on.

However, for me, one conversation stood out the most, and it’s a talk I can actively engage in because “who knows it, feels it.” Certainly, I and many others are aware of how disadvantaged schools are in rural Guyana. I was born, bred and educated in Berbice, but this conversation extends to any and every other school that can be found in less developed parts of Guyana. And yes, in my opinion, Berbice is less developed, but that’s a story for another day.

school and to have the experiences I have, but at the same time, I felt saddened at the fact that many are missing out on certain opportunities.

You can save your rebuttal of “consumerism” and “supplies exists [SIC] because of demands.”

If you do not offer and educate people on what can be available to them, then how will they ever know? If that very student I spoke to was made aware that there is an actual subject by the name of “Theatre Arts,” then wouldn’t that expand their horizon of knowledge? Wouldn’t that expand their options to choose from? Many schools in Berbice and other parts of rural Guyana do not have access to basic things such as a school counsellor, the availability of certain CSEC subjects, skilled and fully qualified teachers, comprehensive online platforms and much more. The education of children from this nation should not be gambled with and certainly should not be politicised and/or treated as a business deal.

This is a serious and pressing issue. Take it from someone who attended an “A-level” school in Berbice. The resources, activities/

Disadvantaged schools in Guyana

I attended the New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary. It is categorised as the “top” school of Berbice alongside the Berbice High School.

They’re both “A-level” schools and those inverted commas were deliberate. They’re deliberate because we were told that we are “A-level” but it barely felt that way. While Berbice is filled with brilliant minds and intellectuals, there’s only so much students can do with limited resources. I remembered having a conversation with one student from another school during an after-school lesson session. I was explaining to that student that I was in the Arts stream and that I was focused on my Theatre Arts practical at the moment for CSEC. The student turned to me and asked: “What is that?” I was dreaded. I felt privileged to be given the opportunity to attend my

events, the exposures and human capital given to other “A-level” schools in Region Four is not the same as ours here in Berbice.

No, you cannot solely blame it on the board of directors. No, you cannot blame it on the socio-economic backgrounds of students and parents. Blame it on our country’s inability to approach development, holistically. We can first start by removing the classification of schools and we can also help to remove the stigma attached to certain “low-level” schools.

There’s a lot of work to be done, but at least we can start with these few suggestions before tackling the bigger underlying issues. Everyone deserves the right to receive an education, but at the same time, everyone also deserves the right to quality education. The same can

be said for students across the length, breadth and every kilometre of Guyana—not only

those in the Georgetown/ Region Four communities.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

INTRODUCTION

HIS week, NAREI in Focus begins a series on the production of yams in Guyana.

There are several types of yam produced in Guy-

ana. The main type, Dioscorea alato, normally produces a single large tuber, often weighing from 5 kg to 10 kg (11

lbs to 22 lbs). The tubers vary in size and shape and have a brown to golden-coloured skin with white or purplish

flesh.

Another type, Dioscorea esculenta, produces a large number of small tubers that typically have numerous uneven sprouting hairs. The tubers have a much-indented shape with purplish-brown skin and white flesh.

A third type, Dioscorea cayenensis, produces tubers of varying sizes and shapes, usually with a pale yellow flesh. Post-harvest care is identical for all types of yam. Yams may suffer considerable post-harvest losses due to moisture (weight) loss, microbial decay, sprouting, and insect attack.

These losses affect both market supply

and availability of planting material. Yam tubers are harvested once a year and therefore need to be properly stored for maximum market life.

Harvest Maturity Indices Several indices can be used to determine when to harvest yams. The foliage of most types of yams begins to wilt and senesce when the tubers mature.

Therefore, harvesting should take place after a significant portion of the foliage has naturally turned yellow or dried up.

Wilted foliage is a sign of physiological maturity of the tuber.

Growth of the tuber is essentially completed several weeks prior to visible wilting. Harvesting should be completed within one or two months of wilting, otherwise, losses due to tuber rot will occur. In some

types of yams the vines do not wilt or noticeably senesce. In these types, the tubers should be harvested based on the amount of time from planting. Yams reach maturity between eight and ten months after planting, depending on the cultivar. Several randomly selected plants can be harvested at the beginning of the eighth month after planting to determine the average tuber size in the field.

HARVESTING METHODS Yam harvesting is usually done manually. A por-

tion of the soil surrounding the tuber(s) is removed prior to lifting the tubers with a spade or other suitable digging tool. Harvest carefully using tools suited to the soil type and paying attention to the depth to which the tubers penetrate. Harvesting is easier when the soil is moist and the soil texture is light.

In light soils, the tuber(s) can be slowly lifted out of the ground by pulling the main stem. In heavier soils or during the dry season, harvesting usually requires digging around the tubers to free them prior to lifting the plant or further digging. While digging and lifting, care should be taken not to injure the tubers, which are delicate and easily bruised during harvesting and handling.

The tubers should

never be thrown or dropped. Wounded tissue is an entry point for decay-causing micro-organisms. Pile harvested yams in small heaps or place directly into field crates for removal from the field. Avoid leaving the yams exposed to direct sun for longer than 30 minutes.

Ya m s s h o u l d b e graded in the field, and unmarketable, damaged, or diseased tubers should be discarded.

Damaged tubers are highly susceptible to decay, particularly if the post-harvest curing is inadequate.

Choose only healthy a n d

u n damaged tubers for curing and storage. Cotton gloves are typically worn to facilitate field cleaning of the tubers.

Sound tubers should be gently dry-brushed to remove excess soil prior to curing. The yams should be gently placed in smooth or padded field containers for transport out of the field. Transporting from the field to the packing house is best carried out using strong, well-ventilated field crates. Transporting in mesh or polypropylene sacks will increase the level of skin damage due to abrasion.

When locally made containers have sharp edges or rough inner surfaces, a thin fibreboard liner should be used to protect the tubers from damage during handling and transporting.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, September 27, 2020

Turn from page VIII

Guyana-produced movie, Gordon Case brought to bear an intelligent interpretation of the character, combining grit and intelligence into the character who repossess goods which are bought on “hire purchase” -- a part down payment followed by instalments. Those buyers who have failed to pay off in full, based on their contracts with the seller, would be subjected to the “Seizeman” turning up and repossessing the item(s). That is a sales arrangement which is still done by some business establishments in Guyana at this time. I am one of the actors in the movie who can testify to the professionalism of Gordon Case as an actor. Observing him in the lead role, other actors were exposed to genuine professionalism by Gordon Case.

“Aggro Seizeman” proved a success both as a well- produced film and also at the box office. Hamley Case has spoken about the catalyst that led to production of the movie.

“To a large extent, inspiration for making the film came from interacting with the late Len

Beharry while he was filming ‘If Wishes Were Horses.’ “ Also appearing in “Aggro Seizeman” was the beautiful and talented Miss Guyana World 1971, Nalini Moonasar, who is from Corriverton, Upper Corentyne Coast.

A younger Gordon Case

I have pleasant memories of enjoying some of the performances of Gordon Case on stage and on television in England. He played Linton in the popular TV series Empire Road. The father in The Family Man. Ian in Black Silk, among many others. Just prior to his

passing, Gordon Case was cast in a film by the celebrated African-British filmmaker Idris Elba, which proved that he was, even in his maturing years, still extremely popular with theatre and moviegoers and in demand by producers as he continued to be offered substantive roles.

At this time, it is of concern by some Guyanese in Guyana, that relatives and friends in the UK could be facing a winter of disillusionment, given the expected second surge. As such, there is the possibility of a second lockdown of the country during the latter months of 2020. However, all is not lost.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also informed the nation that in addition to the 500,000 new tests, “the results of those tests will be returned within 24 hours.” Guyanese in the UK will have to be vigilant as they continue to obey the COVID-19 protocols.

Meanwhile, here in Guyana in the past three months, the numbers of those tested positive and those who have died, have sky-rock-

eted. From single digits in April and May, Guyana, with a population of around 800,000, recorded COVID-19 cases are now 2,579 with 71 deaths as at September 25, 2020. If that is juxtaposed with Botswana in Africa, which has a population 2.3 million but only 2,130 cases and just nine deaths, that tells the story that while some developing countries are doing very well, others are not.

In more recent months, many Guyanese here at home, have let their guards down and have become careless in observing the recommended COVID-19 protocols. Many have been gathering in bars and other public places without the use of face masks and not observing the social-distancing instruction. What I would like to mention is that, thankfully, none of my relatives or friends who are here in Guyana, have tested positive or have died from COVID-19. So, I keep my fingers crossed, as I make the sign of the cross.

A Case Family Photo (Circa 1958)Gordon is at the back

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n

T glided in the sky -- the falcon, its long-spanned wings in smooth rhythm with the wind, sharp eyes on the forest below. This powerful bird seemed not to be hunting prey, but searching for something.

In the day it flew over the mountains, valleys and rivers, resting sometimes at a high vantage point until dusk. Then as night settled in, it fluttered its strong wings and flew down to the forest into the thick foliage. It tucked its head close to its chest to sleep and the hours wore on, then under the soft velvet of the night, in the embrace of the forest, an astounding scene unfolded.

The feathers of the falcon slowly vanished and an incredibly beautiful native girl stood there.

She walked slowly to a small stream and sat there for a long time, crying quietly.

“How long do I have to live with this curse?” she cried.

No one could answer because no humans were there, just the trees and the animals.

She sighed deeply, “I need to find someone to help me so I can return home.”

She had flown from a far-off land searching for something she had been told could be found in this South American land, to break the curse that entrapped her in bird form in the day; and in the dark of the night she was transformed into the girl she was.

Her sharp eyes had been watching the native hunters and farmers far below, not sure who she could reveal herself to and tell her story to help her. In the morning, as the sun rose, she spread her wings and flew up in the sky, hoping today something promising could happen. Hopes were all she had been living with since that fateful day two years ago, to now.

From her vantage point in the sky, she saw the young native hunter sitting alone on the riverbank, watching the sunset on the horizon and with a speed her breed is known for, she descended. The hunter was resting his weary body by the riverside when the reddish-orange hue of the sunset seemed to come alive as a large blue-grey bird streaked

across, like the sudden swish of an artist’s brush.

The hunter’s hands in a swift, smooth motion armed his bow and watched as the bird alighted on a rock on the opposite bank. The bird stayed still, looking at him curiously, and he lowered his hands, recognising the Peregrine falcon, the female, famed for its hunting skills.

The hunter looked at it for a while then sheathed his arrow and left the riverside for his village. That night he was restless in his sleep for in his mind, he felt there was something strange about the bird. He awoke just before the sun rose and went back to the riverside, but the bird was gone. He saw it later in the day in the sky, and at dusk once again, it came to the riverside whilst he sat there.

He felt as though it wanted to tell him something, but he couldn’t be sure and he wondered, “Is this bird a spirit form of something?”

On the fourth day at dusk, the bird flew down from the sky with such speed. It was as though it had lost control of its strong wings. It didn’t take the hunter long to realise that it was injured and he moved swiftly as the falcon hit the water, but he couldn’t go close for with an arrow protruding from one wing, its fluttering wings and sharp claws would rip him badly. He managed quickly to cut a long

branch from a nearby tree and helped the bird out of the water.

He stood looking at it, not daring to go closer, just making sure it was okay. And sitting by a tree, as dark settled in, he closed his eyes, not wanting to leave the injured b i r d alone. As the night became darker, a sound

Taken from Pinterest (Photo by Emilie Vanderlust) caused him to open his eyes and he saw something so incredible, it left him stunned.

The bird’s feathers slowly vanished and lying on the river bank with an arrow in her shoulder, was the most beautiful woman the native hunter had ever seen.

She looked at him and cried softly. “Please help me.”

He knelt by her and gingerly extracted the arrow from the shoulder. She tried not to scream, just grimacing in pain and said a little breathlessly,, “Thank you for saving

my life.”

He looked at her for a long moment then asked, “Who are you and what happened to you?”

She took a deep breath, sitting on the forest floor and told him her story.

She was the daughter of a noble family, recognised as a tribal princess. One day, a son from another noble family saw her and wanted to marry her, but she refused because he was cruel to his own people, and was involved with dark, evil forces. He became so enraged at her refusal that he had a curse put on her.

“Since that day,” she said, tears in her eyes. “This has been my life, a bird in the day and human in the night.”

“Is there a way to break this curse?” he asked.

“It has been said that on top of a high mountain in his land, there grows a small flower, its nectar so powerful, it can cast away any evil.”

“Is that why you’ve flown so far?”

She nodded and asked him, a plea in her voice, “Can you help me?”

He had felt her pain and desperation as he listened to her story and he said, “I will do whatever it takes to help you.”

He left to get a small team from his village and three days and two nights later, as she anxiously awaited his return, she heard him calling for her.

She flew down from a tall tree where she had been resting and alighted on his arm.

He had found the flower to break the curse.

One week later, after the village chief, through the Indigenous Peoples Ministry, had informed her father where she was, she waited in his village for an envoy sent to take her home.

She touched his arm and reaching up, kissed him lightly. “I will remember you always as someone special.”

“And forever in my heart, you will live,” he said in his mind, “My falcon princess.”

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E are days away from t h e launch of the much-anticipated ‘Men Across Borders’ launch on September 30.

We hosted another empowering virtual discussion with some of the other co-authors from the Men Across Borders Anthology a few nights ago. I am so proud of all the co-authors and I am expressing my gratitude again. A big thank you to Pastor Joseph Persaud, who contributed the foreword for this anthology.

Pastor Joseph Persaud lives in New York and pastors a thriving church (Liberty Church NYC) with a global reach across continents with viewership of different peoples and nationalities. He has been married for 30 years to his wife Rachel Persaud and together they have three boys. One is a young leader/ businessman, the other an aspiring physicist and the other is still in school. Pastor Joe fulfilled his theological training early in his ministry and possesses a Bachelor’s in Law and two Masters Degrees: one in International Affairs and the other in Sustainability Management/ Renewable Energy. One of his masters’ degrees is from one of the top Ivy League schools in the USA. He also runs an insurance company in New York and a global foundation with Liberty Church; it has a presence in various nations globally. He is well travelled and has been to over 25 nations and has spoken at various conferences and speaks weekly to hundreds in person and thousands online. His messages are filled with hope and inspiration; to use the setbacks as stepping stones to a better tomorrow.

One of the difficult chapters I have written is the first chapter in this anthology featuring my foster dad who died a few months ago.

Allan John was born on February 3, 1953 in Kurupukari, Guyana. He was the third child of seven others.

Allan attended the St.John the Baptist Primary School in Bartica. His expertise is

reflected in the rivers of Guyana he has traversed. It is known that this requires apt command, versatility and a sturdy hand, but these were only a small percentage of his qualities. There is unspoken beauty to the might possessed

by Allan John, but almost in equal part is the ability to move with such humility that the loudest thing about his living is the legacy he now leaves us after his passing in April 2020. What a dash he left on his tomb that reflected in his life on earth.

Cleveland Bradford is one of the best photographers I know. He created so many stunning images for me and many others over the years. He grew up in a middle-class family with meaningful values, which encouraged him to do the best he can. In his household both parents were his support, in

his lowest low and highest high. In those times art was considered only a hobby, and not a profession. For this reason, he endeavoured to source employment in areas such as accounting, banking and other seemingly gainful occupations, as these were considered the prestigious jobs. After years he took a leap of faith and started his own photography business (Eclipse Photo Studio) and the rest is history.

Ronnie Morris is an energetic humanitarian; he has donated his time, talent and production skills to numerous major charities in Barbados and beyond. These include the Haiti, Barbados Loves You event, with which he served as co-producer, which raised millions for Haiti following that country’s devastating earthquake. He also conceptualised “The Fight

Is Not Over” campaign for Barbados’ fight against HIV & AIDS, writing the theme song and executing a massive event for World AIDS Day. He has also partnered with the Barbados Vagrants and Homeless Society to donate thousands of canned food items for the homeless and the list goes on and on.

Ganesh Singh, a disability rights advocate and leader. As a direct result of his invaluable work in the Guyanese disability community, he has evolved into a disability consultant, and an expert on multiple subjects relating to disability in Guyana and as such, received many prestigious awards. A few of the awards Mr. Singh has received are: the “Commonwealth Point of Light Award” from the Queen of England (2018); National Sports Commission (NSC)

Sportsman with Disability of the year (2017); National Youth Award (2017); Caribbean Voices Community Leader for Social Change (2017); Social Worker of the Year (2016). Mr. Singh also recently acquired his Masters of Social Work (MSW) Degree with honours from the University Of Guyana (UG) and his Post-Graduate Diploma in Education from UG, also with honours. Currently, Mr. Singh serves in a number of organisations holding various portfolios both in Guyana and regionally. Mr. Singh is also the producer and presenter of two (2) radio programmes; “Disability and You” and RGI’s Disability In Focus.” Disability and you is, a weekly show, has been on air since March 2014 and RGI’s Disability In Focus, a daily show, has been on air since Jan-

uary 2015. Both shows are still being broadcasted. Mr. Singh is actively involved in sports.

One of the things I admire about these men is how well they serve. We all need to aspire to do that every day and give the world a better version of ourselves.

If you are desirous of receiving a special invite to the virtual launch, send us an email to anthologymenandwomen@gmail. com. I have one other invite for you for the 28th for the official launch for my programmes on Mastermind. com and Teachable. Email livingwithintention11@ gmail.com or WhatsApp 5163099233. Reminding you that you are your best investment as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called Life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

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Turn from page II field of Journalism, she did not exactly see herself being a radio announcer or personality given her quiet nature.

“I always wanted to be a journalist …I saw myself writing for a newspaper just focusing on the writing aspect because I also love writing,” she told the Pepperpot.

The young woman noted that she was in the process of drafting applications to send to some of the top print media houses in Guyana when a relative shared an advertisement that a popular radio station that was looking for a young, vibrant and eager broadcaster.

A LEAP OF FAITH Still very uncertain, Jordan said, “I was overthinking, what if I go and I don’t get it? And eventually my parents convinced me to just take the chance because we never know what could happen.”

On the day of the audition, Jordan related that she was the third person in line and was certain she was not going to get the job because of how timid and nervous she was.

“After I saw the other persons who came there for the audition I started to feel nervous, I was looking at the way they were dressed, the way they seemed confident and in my mind, I was like I’m not going to get this job,” she said.

Two weeks later the young woman received a call and was told she will be the newest addition to the 103.1 FM team.

A CONFIDENCE BOOST “I always look for new challenges so I didn’t back down from that one. I did a one-month training before I went on air officially. That one month [period] was a life-changing experience for me…At the end of that one month I learned to speak louder and to project my voice. That is actually how I ended up in broadcasting,” she said.

The young woman noted that since being in the broadcasting business, she has become a more confident individual, who speaks out and up a lot more.

Jordan said that being a youth herself has prompted her to use her platform to send positive messages to other young people in hopes of encouraging them to pursue riveting careers and furthering their studies for their self-development.

On her programme, “Brunch on the Coast” which is aired between to 9:00hrs 13:00hrs, Jordan shares COVID-19 updates, reminders to citizens to wear their protective gears, she even features exciting stories from across the world along with local and internal music.

The young woman noted that while she is currently working on bettering herself as a radio broadcaster, in the near future, she is hoping to become a household name in journalism across Guyana.

“I’m focusing on UG and trying to better myself as a radio announcer and I do see myself furthering my career in radio broadcasting. But if I think about a little more into the future, I want to someday be taught of as one of the best journalists in Guyana,” she said.

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CARELESS DISPOSAL OF PLASTICS IS DANGEROUS

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HE invention and widespread use of plastics has provided human beings with an accessory of life which is extraordinarily useful and cheap. Modern man regard plastics as an indispensable amenity of life.

Plastics are produced from crude oil, and as such, plastics are described as a fossil-fuel product.

Plastics provide the world with thousands of useful products, some of which have become so essential a part of human life that to remove them suddenly would diminish the quality of human life.

In commercial activity worldwide, the bags used to store, deliver and sell goods, whether they are foodstuffs or hardware are plastics. In the restaurant and food-catering business, the crockery and cutlery are usually plastic and very often, so are the furniture and decor of restaurants. Even some kitchen utensils and kitchen tools are of plastic.

Many machines are now built with plastic parts. Motor cars, for instance, have most of their interiors made of plastic.

Plastics are however not biodegradable and could survive indefinitely unlike iron or paper which, with the effluxion of time, would again be reabsorbed into the Earth’s surface. Though some effort has been made to recycle plastic waste, this is comparatively expensive, and it is only about one per cent of such waste is recycled. Such waste is not burnt, since it would pollute the atmosphere to a dangerous degree. Accordingly, plastic waste is thrown into rubbish dumps, and a good

deal of it finds its way into the rivers and oceans and along the coastline. Much of this waste derives from single-use plastics such as wrappings and bags used in commercial activity, or from the restaurant and fast-foods industry, where millions of plastic spoons, knives, forks, plates and table covers are disposed of every day.

This irresponsible disposal of plastic waste negatively affects biodiversity and upsets the balance of nature. Everything in the environment, everything in nature is in the web of life and is related to each other, though such relationships may not be immediately obvious. Trees, birds, animals, mountains and rivers, the oceans, fishes and marine animals and humankind are all linked in this web of life, and if any part of the web is wantonly harmed, it would eventually negatively affect mankind. We will give a few examples of this interdependence of the various parts of the environment.

Some years ago in New England in the United States, the apple orchards were being attacked by swarms of insects. The farmers succeeded in eliminating the insects and reaped a good crop. Next year, however, the orchards produced poor crops since the insects to pollinate the blossoms were absent, having been eliminated. Or the tourist industry being negatively affected by plastic debris washing up on the beaches with governments and hoteliers having to undertake costly ongoing clean-ups.

It is estimated that 40 per cent of the world’s oceans are covered with plastic waste and this is growing at three to four per cent per year. Since plastic is such

a buoyant material, it floats both below and above water, forming microplastics. Sea birds mistake such plastics for food, thus reducing the storage space in their stomachs, resulting in their death from starvation. Turtles mistake plastics for jellyfish and when they eat them, they choke and die. Or some times, drinking straws become lodged in their nostrils, suffocating them. Entanglement in various types of plastic waste such as abandoned nets has proved a threat to marine species and even birds. An example of this is the 40,000 fur seals which die each year from entanglement. The report of the UN Environmental Coral Reef Unit sums up this situation: “Marine plastic litter pollution is already affecting more than 800 marine species through ingestion, entanglement and habitat change.”

In confronting this enormous problem of working to save the environment from plastic waste and to protect Biodiversity, every segment of society has a part to play. The State has to take action; Industry and the Private Sector has to take action, and the individual citizen has an important part to play at the ground level. The individual citizen could help by being an Environmental Steward where he/she could volunteer to physically clean up the environment; donate funds to support the cause; lobby state authorities and educate the public. On the individual level, he/she could minimise the use of single-use plastics by a variety of activities such as using cotton shopping bags or buying reusable bottles and food containers.

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Dentine

I

T is quite common for dental practitioners to hear persons describe dental pain as an “edging” or “shocking” when they eat or drink anything sweet or sour, or when the food is hot or cold, or even with simply brushing. If you experience this, then you are among the approximately 70,000 Guyanese adults who suffer from dentine hypersensitivity.

Dentine is mineralised tissue transected from the pulp chamber (at the centre of the tooth) to enamel or cementum by minute tubules. Within the tubules are protoplasmic projections (“tentacles” of cells) with the cell body itself being located in the pulp chamber. Stimulating these cells emits only one sensation, pain.

There are currently four hypotheses of pain transmission through dentine, of which the hydrodynamic theory is the most widely accepted. According to this theory, the movement of fluids within the dentine and pulp stimulates the nerves causing pain. All external stimuli translate into hydrodynamic changes that alter the pulp equilibrium and elicit pain. So even contact with air can result in pain.

Pain can be caused by mechanical, chemical, thermal (temperature) or bacterial, stimuli. Stimulation sources may inImage Credit: Andrey Popov / Shutterstock

clude: toothbrushing, digital (finger) probing; desiccation (a blast of air); acids sweet, sour hot and cold products: and acid products from plaque bacteria.

There are varied predisposing factors to dentinal hypersensitivity but to no single cause. The tooth becomes sensitive after enamel loss or root surface exposure. Enamel loss follows mechanical wear (biting surface wear), neck abrasion or possibly tooth flexure after grinding, which fractures enamel rods chemical erosion (acid foods or stomach regurgitation), gingival recession (retracting gums) and subsequent tooth root exposure allow more rapid and extensive exposure of dentinal tubules because the cementum layer overlying the root surface is thin and easily removed.

The many causes of gingival retraction include normal ageing, chronic periodontal disease, abnormal tooth position in the dental arch, periodontal surgery, incorrect tooth brushing habits and root preparation for crowns. All of the precipitating factors allow the exposure of dental tubules, which create the condition for dentine hypersensitivity.

Treatment modalities fall into two main categories: chemical and physical. All available treatments work to differing degrees depending on the treatment and severity of the patient’s hypersensitivity. Pain is extremely subjective so that effective treatment often depends on the individual’s pain threshold.

Some desensitising agents can be used at home; others require a visit to the dentist.

Chemical desensitising agents can be sub-classified by their action: anti-inflammatory, protein precipitating and tubule blocking.

Corticosteroids, one of the many groups of chemical agents, have been used typically for their anti-inflammatory effects, but are not particularly effective.

The second group of chemical agents, the protein precipitants, includes silver nitrate and zinc chloride. Silver nitrate was widely used in the past. Unfortunately, both substances cause teeth to stain permanently and are harmful to gums and pulp. Strontium chloride and formaldehyde (in Sensodyne toothpaste) belong to the group of agents that precipitate proteins within the tubule. Other drugs used to treat the condition include calcium hydroxide, fluoride, and sodium citrate. Patients may also be treated with composites (fillings), resins varnishes, sealants, soft tissue grafts, glass ionomer cements and laser sealing of the tubules.

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Turn from page IX

can also result in difficulty becoming pregnant, miscarriages or infertility in general. The stomach lining can also be ripped in severe cases which result in numerous stomach and intestinal issues.

Bulimia is caused by (as well as causes additional) stress and major issues with self-esteem and self-confidence.

It leads to withdrawal from friends and family, but this isolation fuels the disorder.

Bulimia is also highly correlated with mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and addiction and can lead to issues such as self-harm or suicidal behaviours.

Bulimia is typically developed during adolescence and is more common among females. Anyone can develop it, but one is more likely to, if it already runs in the family. The blatant social pressures of being thin, especially for certain professions and hobbies are also triggers for this mental illness. For example, one is more likely to develop an eating disorder if they are models, dancers or swimmers etc.

There are some typical signs and symptoms that can confirm if you or a loved one has bulimia. Bulimics are often preoccupied with food and their weight-- often thinking about both throughout the day. They are uncomfortable in their own bodies and make a lot of negative comments about their appearance.

Those with this illness also like to eat alone or hide their eating and food in general, as they are typically ashamed when they eat. They are also visibly sad or guilty after eating. Some are afraid to eat in general as there is an underlying fear that they will not be able to stop.

They usually make efforts to get rid of the food almost directly after consuming it.

Some decide to take illegal drugs that tend to change our eating patterns. For example, if someone feels like binging, they may take a drug like marijuana which opens up the appetite. However, after a week-long binge, some may take a stimulant drug like cocaine, which decreases the appetite.

As with anything else, the first step is admitting that you have this problem. When you have, feel comfortable reaching out to those close to you or a professional. Extreme cases of Bulimia usually require in-patient treatment care.

Medications such as anti-depressants and anti-anxiety may be prescribed due to the high correlation of eating disorders and other mental illnesses. It is also beneficial to do counselling sessions at the same time in order to find the root of the problem, triggers that invoke the eating as well as develop healthier ways of coping.

A food journal is typically a good idea for those with bulimia. Writing down everything you have eaten, at what time, what portion along with what event occurred or what mood developed will help to identify triggers and initial reasons for binging.

This is the first step-- you can’t overcome something until you identify its pattern.

It’s the first step to developing a healthy relationship with food-- one that is not too excessive or too restrictivefind a nice balance that works for you. Remember to also balance your exercise.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you suffer from this disorder.

Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com or come in to see me at: Georgetown Public Hospital: Psychiatric Department: Monday- Friday – 08:00 hrs- 12:00hrs Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

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Turn from page V

care of her son, all while making sure she is doing all that is necessary to make her brand bigger and better. She moved from just preordering clothing to footwear, handbags, swimwear, lingerie, electronics, and cosmestics. “I also started to work on my brand content, better packaging and better customer services. I recently revamped my entire brand and I have been working on a few other business tactics so as to continue to offer my customers fashionable clothing for an affordable price but definitely products of unbelievable quality. I must say I’m still not where I desire to be, but I trust God that one day I will be . However, my desire for the future is to move from being an online based store to having an actual boutique,” the entrepreneur said.

LENDING A HELPING HAND In July of this year, the young entrepreneur launched her “Chic in Business” Initiative that is geared towards empowering and helping fellow women in business and women looking to start up a line of business. The initiative seeks to help these women to better manage their businesses and to not make the same mistakes she made when she first began . “For entrepreneurs like myself that may have started a business but lack sufficient information to properly manage and market their brands, I am using this initiative as a means of helping them. Many times persons may have a business idea in mind but lack the necessary resources to get it up and running. The initiative offers a package that supplies entrepreneurs information on vendors, shipping companies, marketing skills, finance management, amongst other necessities every business owner/potential owner needs,” she posited .

Ju Chic, Petite_Piecesgy , Bumpa’s Vintage Boutique and GALOREZ are among several business that were notably launched and /or relaunched under the aforementioned initiative.

In advising upcoming entrepreneurs Denacia noted that from her own experience research is key. She implored them to take their time and to go through all the blue prints; to have a plan and to work very hard towards it while, remembering that “dedication and determination are important and always remember that no matter how saturated the market is, one person can’t supply everyone and your business will always be unique because it embodies you.”

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THOUGH

T FOR T ODAY

Some circumstantial evidence is very strong, as when you find a trout in the milk.

HENRY DAVID THOREAU (1817-1862) Journal, 11 Nov. 1850 (pub. 1903)

SEPTEMBER 20, 2020 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student,

W

E LCOME, dear friend.

Check these useful reading reminders. Do a lot of voluntary and recommended reading. Read print whether at full speed or slowly, or even with some obliterated letters or words - this skill improves memory alertness. With all the writing you do, you need good reading to back up your caché of ideas. Reading well will help you keep your job later in life for specific jobs need greater reading confidence, and quicker and very efficient reading.

Be wise.

Love you.

THE PASSAGE Comprehending the passage The pork-knockers accepted the fact that death could cut a man off from his dreams of wealth, his friends and his family. To most of them it meant only that a man had dropped out of the carnival crowd.

Death made them uneasy but not sad, for they were born gamblers.

James Wellington had meant very little to me whilst he was alive. He had been a silent man who did his work well. Perhaps my youth died with James Wellington and some of the romantic visions I still clung to were stripped away. His death made me see myself as I was an ambitious selfish individual who had been helped by many people but who had helped no one in return.

I realised, too, that I was no better than the white man who had caused my father’s death. Learning had made us not more human, but less so. Learning had not increased our knowledge of good and evil, but intensified and made more rational and deadly, our greed for gain. I could have warned Wellington as the illiterate Woody Sam had done, and he would have heeded my warning.

I did not do so because the diamonds were rolling in.

The white man had done the same thing as I had done. But I did not have as much conscience as he had.

I would not go up and down the coast to look for Mr. Wellington’s wife and children, for in a few months’ time I would forget them.

If they had been nearby, I

would have given them all I had in the first flush of my guilt, but I was a man who went with the tide and I seldom looked back. I asked myself, “Who is the better man, the white man or me?” and I could not bear to answer the question.

[BLACK MIDAS] Something to Do 1. What was the relationship between James Wellington and the “I” narrator?

2. Describe a) the physical, and b) the social aspect of setting in the passage.

3. What does this statement mean? “The diamonds were rolling in.”

4. It is said that death to someone close affects the person in one way or another. How did the death of James Wellington affect the “I” narrator? Respond in one paragraph.

5. What does this statement mean? “I was a man who went with the tide”.

6. Give a title to the passage; and justify it.

GRAMMAR Looking at progress: how much do you know?

Choose the correct verb in each instance. Compare with your group study partners’ choices.

1. This dress, as well as my shawl and hat, (is, are) newly arrived.

2. (Was, Were) Gem looking for me at the benefit hat parade?

3. There (was, were) very few of my rivals shopping down Sherriff Street yesterday.

4. The biggest problem (is, are) the absentees from cricket practice all last week.

5. Our group (has, have) won the ‘best uniformed’ prize five times in a row.

6. News (is, are) plentiful on this new matter.

7. That evidence (doesn’t, don’t) make any difference in this case of the lost shoe.

8. Each of the eucalyptus bushes (has, have) differently shaped and colourful blossoms.

9. He is one of those workers who (is, are) always challenging authority about employment terms.

10. A number of changes (has, have) taken place since.

11. Whittaker’s attitude,

not yours, (is, are) the one thing I always criticise.

[Answers: 1. is; 2.

Was; 3. were; 4. is; 5. has; 6. is; 7. doesn’t; 8. has; 9. are; 10. have; 11. is.]

MAKING SENSE of the PASSAGE How well are you using context clues?

One of the most helpful ways to recognising new words is through context; that is, by noting the connection in which they appear in the sentence. Several kinds of context clues help the reader to determine the approximate meaning of the new word.

1. One kind of context clue is the synonym; that is a word that has approximately the same meaning as the unfamiliar word used in the sentence.

A stiletto, or dagger, hung at the middle-aged gentleman’s side.

2. Another kind of context clue is the antonym, or word with a meaning directly contrary to that of the unfamiliar word.

Unlike his excitable wife, the schoolmaster had a phlegmatic disposition.

3. Sometimes a previous word or sentence will describe a mood or a situation that gives meaning to the new word.

It was a silent and humiliated team that trudged into the locker room after the upset. Nor did the lugubrious expression on the coach’s face serve to lift their spirits.

4. Sometimes the unfamiliar word is a summary word that can be understood from the illustrations.

The new law provided for an extensive conservation programme – new dams to be built, reservoirs constructed, whole acres reforested, and crop rotation encouraged with subsidies.

5. Sometimes the meaning of a word can be inferred from the general context.

The doctor prescribed a sedative to relieve the elderly patient’s suffering.

6. Sometimes the unfamiliar word is explained by an appositive.

Krilium, a chemical soil conditioner, is derived from acrylonitrite, chemical obtained from natural gases.

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Ingredients ► 2 cups all-purpose flour ► 1 tbsp baking powder ► 1 tsp mustard powder ► ½ tsp salt ► 4 tbsp butter, cold ► 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese •► 1 cup milk ► 1/8 tsp hot pepper, finely minced (wiri wiri or scotch bonnet) ► 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water for basting

Instructions ■ Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

■ Place flour, baking powder, mustard

powder and salt in a large bowl or food processor.

■ If using food processor, add cold butter and pulse a few times unitl it resembles fine cornmeal. If you don’t have a food processor, use your hands to rub butter into flour.

■ Next, all cheese, pepper and mix well to distribute evenly.

■ Next add milk and stir just until mixture comes together.

■ Turn onto lightly floured surface and press the dough until about 1 inch thick.

■ Using a biscuit cutter(a glass will do the trick also), cut then place onto ungreased baking pan.

■ Mix egg yolk with 1 teaspoon water then brush tops of scones.

■ Place in oven and bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes.

■ Cool before serving.

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