Merry Christmas to all of our readers from the Pepperpot Magazine! We love to see the happy faces at this time. In this photo, a smiling family poses with Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo in Georgetown’s Christmas Village on Main Street. We hope you enjoy the holidays!
(Carl Croker photo)
A GUYANESE Christmas is not complete without the widely adored black cake. Atlantic Edge Insurance Brokerage Inc., as part of its Christmas activities, on December 17, hosted its first black cake competition at its David Street, Subryanville, Georgetown office.
Sharon Ramrattan, the Director of Atlantic Edge Insurance Brokerage Inc., said that this cake competition is just one of several ways in which the company is raising family awareness. Family is vital and one of the key factors in developing well-rounded people in society. Sharon also outlined a number of reasons why one should get insurance from Atlantic Edge. The purpose of insurance is to lessen financial uncertainty and make accidental loss manageable, according to Sharon.
Five teams participated in the challenge that was presented. While there were only three prizes, all of the contestants emerged as successful. These participants travelled from various regions to illustrate what traditional black cake means to them.
The competition was judged by four volunteers who not only sampled the cakes but graded each participant on presentation,
taste, texture, and density. The winner was determined by who had the most points.
Black cake is adored because of its distinctively dense texture, dark hue, and rich, powerful flavour. This treasured fruit cake, which is soaked in rum, is renowned and sought for at Christmas time, weddings, and other occasions. Its resemblance to chocolate cake may deceive many people who have never tried this dessert.
The Pepperpot Magazine spoke to the contestants to understand how they felt about the activity and how they went about conquering the traditional
rum cake, as some would say. More so, the competitors raved about how they were thrilled about the challenge.
With her Christmas tree black cake, Taralyn Harris of the East Bank of Demerara received first prize. Taralyn voiced her enthusiasm about the cake competition, stating that she just had to hop on the bandwagon and demonstrate what this lover of the great arts can bring to the table.
She also joked that she enjoys baking when she is in the mood, as many people would say about this artistic craft. Taralyn, who dislikes consuming
excessive alcohol, said she chose red wine to offset the pungent flavour.
Furthermore, in terms of appearance, she was aiming to accentuate the inherent beauty of black cake rather than conceal it behind an overwhelming amount of embellishments. Taralyn did not want to “take away from the cake,” she felt that her creation mirrored an authentic, dark Guyanese black cake. Truly showing that “the core of beauty is simplicity.”
Jacqueline Tull and Dandre Tull, a moth -
er-and-daughter duo, came in second. Dandre noted that she enjoys baking with her mother because it allows them to connect and produce delicious goodies.
Their Christmas tree
allowed this get to them. The Tull ladies travelled from Diamond, East Bank Demerara, to show their Christmas village, complete with upright Nutcrackers, merry snowmen and a vil -
black cake stood tall and proud in its vivid forest green, caressed by shimmering lights with a star on top to demonstrate that they mean business. These small business owners were ecstatic about putting together their rendition of a Guyanese Christmas.
Dandre added that the pandemic had deterred her from taking advantage of numerous possibilities, but neither her nor her mother
lage which was covered in white snow. Although this large Christmas tree black cake looks challenging, Jacqueline affirmed that it was ‘a piece of cake.’
Orla Wilson and Jasmine Ramrattan finished in third place. These friends entered the contest for the sake of festivities, but their innovative interpretation of the classic black
YOU know its Christmas time when there is a hustle and bustle of people in the streets and blaring Christmas music from music carts, and shoppers trying to get the hottest and latest deals from stores and business places in and around the city.
While some are looking forward to a glorious season this year after a two-year novel coronavirus pandemic, some are taking it easy and watching as events unfold.
The Pepperpot Magazine visited the community of Tiger Bay in Georgetown to get a feel about how residents living there feel about the hustle and bustle of Christmas this year.
Two residents, Bianca and Telsha expressed similar sentiments that when their children were much younger, they made every effort to ensure that they bought them all the niceties that Christmas has to offer. Now they have grown, they have traded those niceties to ensure that there is food on the table on Christmas morning.
According to Bianca, “I don’t really fight up for Christmas these days. Since the pandemic has ended and prices for almost every commodity has gone up, it is not so exciting as in years gone by.”
Telsha, on the other hand, told Pepperpot Magazine that it is not that she doesn’t shop amidst the skyrocketing prices, but she ensures that she gets the essentials to enjoy the Christmas holidays.
However, another resident, Victor Sobers, said that Christmas was never the same since the passing of his wife, whom he had been happily married to for 49 years.
“My wife died last year around September. It would be the same as when she was around, though I am with somebody now, she and I lived for 49 years. Together, we have 15 children. I hardly look out for Christmas, but I celebrate it because it is a Christian tradition and I am a Christian. I would never abandon the thought of Christmas, but everything is about money. Once you have money, you are okay,” Sobers told Pepperpot Magazine.
According to Sobers, there is no better country now than Guyana, whose citizens are known for their generosity and hospitality.
When Pepperpot Magazine visited, Sobers was happily plying his trade, just at the helm of the community, with his stand of biscuits, sweets, and other goodies.
He mentioned that people, particularly down the more commercialised areas like Regent Street, are shopping like crazy, as Guyanese like to say, because there is more purchasing power in their dollar, so to speak, and much more commodities to buy from vendors and store owners.
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cake surprised the judges. These women kept things simple yet stylish. Orla was overjoyed to talk about how much she loves to bake and how her kids are some of her biggest supporters.
Rabina Shivraj, another contestant, journeyed all the way from La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara, which is nestled between Blanken Burg and Windsor Forest.
Rabina was eager to discuss her passion and its source. She began baking at the tender age of 12, and every Christmas she and her cousin would prepare delights for their parents to savour. Likewise, Rabina claimed that her passion for baking inspired her to start a small business.
Tiffany Ganchand, from Hope which is tucked away on the East Coast of Demerara came to showcase her talents. Her daughter’s teacher encouraged her to exhibit her baking skills at
the competition.
Tiffany had the idea to use rum cake and sponge cake to create the classic Christmas cottage from holiday movies. Tiffany’s fantasy materialised with the addition of wreaths, Christmas
trees, candy canes, and a cheery snowman.
She created the fondant entirely from scratch using only marshmallows and icing sugar. The owner of her own culinary delight said that while initially crafting
fondant from “scratch” offered some challenges, she has now mastered her art and was prepared to dazzle everyone.
Due to their unique flavours, Guyanese Black Cake, also known as Rum Cake, and its comrade Guyanese Pepperpot are household favourites.
You know it is Christmas in Guyana when you see Guyanese scouring every nook and cranny for the best deals. In particular, Regent Street, Georgetown is all the buzz as both small and big businesses battle to offer the finest discounts. Markets are crowded with people hurrying to get their “pepperpot meat.”
Additionally, radios blazing the legendary “Christmas in Guyana” by Slingshot throughout the festive season and masquerades parading the streets, upholding our long-stand-
Christmas is different for all of us. For those with plenty, it can be a time of extravagance, filled with fancy gifts and an abundance of food. But not everyone is so lucky. Tucked away in several forgotten corners of our country, many persons oftentimes observe this festive season with the little that they have, yet, they have no choice but to make the best of it.
Sobers also noted during his interview high in praise for what he described as a better standard of living in the tenure of this administration because, as he described it, particularly as a resident of Tiger Bay, more government officials have visited and given aid to the Tiger Bay community than before.
“Now you see a lot of non-governmental organisations coming around, helping the children, helping people, even his Excellency gave aid for the people in Tiger Bay,” Sobers told Pepperpot Magazine.
Sobers also spoke about the issue of people traversing up and down one of the highly commercialised areas, and taxis not taking you because they according to him complain of wasting gas.
Commuters and shoppers alike are cashing in on the deals offered by the various business entities, particularly at this festive time of the year.
This year, the folks in Tiger Bay will, according to Sobers, enjoy a greater festive season.
ing tradition, brings it all together.
Many people experience nostalgia when they recall their parents or relatives carrying them to view homes decorated with glittering, bright lights and maybe even a Santa on the roof. Main Street, Georgetown, is always one of the main attractions, with shimmering lights hugging seasoned trees and couples and families strolling and embracing the cozy feeling.
But what would a Guyanese Christmas be without traffic congestion? Passengers cram into taxis and buses in anticipation to go buy things they do not really need.
While every nation has its unique Christmas customs, none can compare to Guyanese traditions. Our practices even attract tourists who want to experience our warm-hearted people, flamboyant celebrations, and delicious cuisine and beverages.
On Christmas morning,
Guyanese homes all over the nation may experience the same delightful aroma when the pepperpot reheats on the stove, with freshly baked bread to go with the luscious meat dish.
Christmas in Guyana is like our Thanksgiving in that it is mostly celebrated with loved ones and food.
Even before December arrives, Guyanese begin to make preparations for Christmas. Many people may actually relate to being called by their mother or grandmother to do “Christmas cleaning.”
Christmas movie marathons strengthen family bonds and present new viewpoints on life that you have never heard or witnessed before.
On that extremely special day, observing everyone around you joyful and carefree for even a brief period of time gives you a nice, fuzzy sensation inside that you cannot shake.
ALL of the hard work and long nights have eventually paid off for Anusha Doodnauth. The beautiful 21-yearold has just completed her law degree with the University of London through the Nations University and is currently basking in pure joy and feelings of accomplishment.
Anusha attended St. Gabriel’s Primary, where she topped the school for the National Grade Six Assessment before pressing on to Queen’s College. She then furthered her education at School of the Nations, where she wrote the ‘A Levels’ and achieved awards for outstanding performance in law.
After A levels, she attended the University of London to pursue her law degree. “I knew I always wanted to be in the legal field, but as I grew older, the vision of being a lawyer became clearer. My family has a business-oriented background so I saw it merging well and complementing that area of my life,” she related in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine.
Though currently involved in her family busi -
ness, she does have plans to further her studies in the near future. “It was a sense of relief after all the hard work and long nights, to now be able to acknowledge that I have achieved one of my goals of earning my LL.B. It feels very satisfying at this point in time,” she shared.
“This is something that I anticipated for so long and to be able to reach this point in my life… I feel very accomplished. Nevertheless,
Anusha Doodnauth – London University graduateI do look at it as a stepping stone and encouragement to achieve more,” she continued.
Anusha, also a trained classical dancer with the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, has been dancing for the past nine years. After so many years, dancing has become an intrinsic part of her personality.
“The lessons I’ve taken from dancing about discipline, precision and working towards a cause have transcribed themselves into my academic life as well. Preparing for a show entails so many things - understanding choreography, working with peers, knowing placements and when to react and just all around character building activities,” Anusha observed.
She’s found these skills to be very applicable in approaching her studies; from organising her study times to understanding how to react to the challenges of her field of study.
Anusha plans to continue dancing because it has become a considerable part of her life, but going forward, time management and prioritisation would have to come into play. “I understand that while dancing is close to my heart, my academic success matters more and this would entail the sacrifice of having to miss a performance or two.”
Meanwhile, Anusha said her brother has been a great inspiration throughout her studies. “He is a licensed
attorney in the USA. His zeal and openness to tackle challenges have inspired me to have the same approach not only to academics, but also to life.”
Her advice to youths would be to prioritise what’s important. There’s much good, she noted, that comes from making a plan or a list of goals and then focusing on that. “Plan your time wisely,” she urged.
“There were many dance performances I had to skip out on despite wanting to participate in them badly but I had to remind myself that dancing was just my hobby
and as much as it became my passion, my academic life needed my attention and dedication in those times,” she continued.
It’s also important, as Anusha pointed out, that persons not be too hard on themselves as time management takes time to master.
“If you can, engage yourself in an extra-curricular activity. The dancing studio is a place where I can go and have an escape from reality in my stressful times but dancing also boosted my confidence in ways that required me stepping out of my comfort zone and finding out my true potential,” she shared, adding, “As cliché as it sounds, believe in yourself; you can have a great support system but at the end of the day you still have to be able to motivate yourself. Once you have a positive outlook you will see positive results.”
MAX Massiah fully believes in the saying, “What the mind of man can conceive and believe he can achieve.” He’s seen it happen in his life where he was able to achieve his goal of becoming a professional martial artist on his own.
At 11 years old, the now 62-year-old began training in Karate. He wanted to be like Bruce Lee and become a Black Belt, so when he enlisted in the para-military National Service in 1975 in the interior, he never stopped training. By training, it meant mostly doing his own thing; being creative.
“I was noted as being probably the only ‘Pioneer’ on Kimbia who had a pair of Nunchuks, though enjoying and preferring training in privacy,” Massiah explained recently. For years, he trained in private but his ‘secret’ of being a martial artist eventually came out in 2014.
Today, about 50 years after he initially started training, he is the founder of a rapidly growing and registered system called Maxido. “I have not only earned Black belts in three styles (2nd Dan Shotokan, 3rd Dan Mixed Martial Arts, 9th Dan
MAXIDO), but ordained with ranks of Grandmaster, Sifu, and Soke (Teacher of Teachers), and produced nine Black belts,” he shared.
Massiah has trained over 300 students in Guyana, USA, Ghana, and Cuba, and 63 members of Guyana’s Special Forces. “I have begun to train the Army…I
taught him during the latter years is the late Grandmaster Stephen Michael Monasingh.
Court), and a Saxophonist known as SAXMAX. Furthermore, he is the host and producer of the popu -
respond when an attempt is made to physically harm them with their bare hands or weapons, with the defence response strictly focusing on limb dislocation and bone breakage in under four seconds. It is easily adaptable by students with no strength or size, based upon technique of application,” Massiah explained.
“The motto of MaxidoPain application for bullies - totally describes the system of shoulders and elbows being wrenched out of their sockets, and wrist and arms broken. It is especially suited for small-built females in defence against an aggressor armed with a cutlass, stick, knife, or bare-handed attack,” he continued.
“In becoming a Maxido practitioner, an automatic shield of armor is adorned, as the confidence level becomes evident in the persons characterisation, therein eliminating and significantly reducing the attraction by would-be attackers,” Massiah further related.
According to him, the females in Maxido are all very proud and have all exuded an air of confidence. Sharing just one experience, he said there is a particular female who weighs 115 pounds, and is barely over feet who confessed to being abused both physically and sexually.
At the end of acquiring her second level (Orange belt), the student related how she is 100 per cent comfortable with defending herself effectively if ever threatened in such a situation again. She also admitted that her current companion, who used to be verbally abusive, has fully ceased from that attitude due to being aware of her physically defensive capabilities.
am the recipient of 7X Hall of Fame, 4X Hall of Honor, 2X Expo Kung-Fu & Karate Masters of Martial Arts, 1 Hall of Champion Inductions, and other accolades - including the Grandmaster of the Year award by the Universal Martial Arts HallOf-Fame (India) from GM Shi Heng Chang.”
Massiah is especially grateful to the late Sensei Danny, his first teacher, and Professor Christopher Francis who witnessed his skills and nominated him for his first Hall-Of-Fame award in 2015. The last person who
The father of 10 has always wanted to become a martial artist and actor. He has done dozens of stage performances including Mori Jvon Comedy Jam, Link Show, Watch De Ride, and Uncensored. He also had roles in five movies namely Rainbow Raani, The Convert, Protection Game, Ankoko, and The Martialist.
Massiah is also a stage and screenwriter, a commercial sign artist (he produced the current sign on the Georgetown Magistrates’
lar weekly live TV Sports program called Maximum Sports Combat and Strength on NCN.
Maxido Adult Self-Defence System was specifically formulated for the elderly, females, business owners, professionals, security personnel, and law enforcement officers. Students are not taught to “fight” by throwing punches and kicks.
“Maxido is pure self-defense. Practitioners only
“The Senior Instructor of Maxido, wellknown photographer and film-maker Kojo McPherson…will testify it was that very female who inspired him to join Maxido. When he first visited the Dojo, she was in training and I told him to be physically aggressive to her. Within a few seconds he was pleading with her to let go of the painful position she placed him in. He immediately decided to be a student, lamenting the fact of such a petite woman having him under full control. All Maxido females will actually boast of the complete change of confidence and the absence of fear of physical abuse,” Massiah said.
LAST week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the countryside village of Perth Village, Branch Road, Mahaicony, to highlight the way of life of the locals.
The first resident the team encountered was Keith James, an elder of the community who is well known and well liked as he was relaxing on his verandah after completing some household chores, including cooking a pot of stewed beef and rice.
The 75-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he was a rice and cattle farmer when he was much younger, but these days he is cultivating only rice and sold all his cows years ago.
James added that his mother gave birth to him at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and he grew up in New Providence, Mahaicony, a small village located about five miles from central Mahaicony.
He reported that after the disturbances of the 1960s, he was forced to relocate to
are vast backlands utilised for farming and cattle rearing.
The elder noted that most of the locals of Perth Village are related either by blood or marriage. It is a very closeknit neighbourhood where the people are kind, cooperative and very neighbourly.
James lives alone, but he is surrounded by relatives, including his nephew, who is next door and he has a very comfortable life with a simple, daily agenda in getting things done early before taking a sip with his friends.
“We had plenty cows back in the days because I had mine plus the lady, Doris Ross, that I grew up with had too, so we reared those until I became of age and quit that kind of farming and sold the cattle,” he said.
The father of three explained that his children are all grown and they have jobs and their own lives elsewhere.
One of his children is a doctor at Fort Wellington Hospital, another a Justice
en’t in a rush to do anything since there is enough time and the only thing I does worry about is the boys in the village would come when I am not at home and pick all the mangoes from my tree. They would not even leave one behind; so I asked someone to pick them for me this time,” he said.
The resident of Perth Village told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is early due to habit and would get up around 04:00hrs and begin his cooking by dawn. He is ready to have breakfast and time to sip and chat with his friends.
“At times I would go via my bicycle to central Mahaicony where I would meet up friends and have a drink or two before returning home,” he said.
James noted that he worked hard for many years and now it is his time to enjoy his golden years as a pensioner, who served as a councillor and village leader.
He credits his longevity to eating freshly prepared
Perth Village after his grandfather swapped the land he had in New Providence.
James stated that today he is still residing on his ancestral lands and all the lands in Perth Village are privately owned and there
of the Peace in central Mahaicony and a son in Anguilla.
James has two grandchildren and his wife passed away at age 72 in 2015.
“Life is good here, quiet, breezy and just right for that rural lifestyle where we ar-
foods, using fruits from the environment, and being active.
James has some bananas and mangoes which he will take to his daughter’s shop
By Michel Outridge
LORRAINE Johney is a seamstress, and this holiday period, she is quite busy because she has some bridesmaids’ dresses to complete for a wedding on Boxing Day and another on New
Pepperpot Magazine that she relocated to her home village over a year ago and has been adjusting well.
After marriage, she left the village 24 years ago and was living at Zeskendren Village, Mahaicony and moved to her sister’s house, a year
the people of Perth are very supportive of each other and they have given tremendous support in terms of her small business as a seamstress and all the dressmaking she would do for the locals.
The seamstress has designated a section of her house
Year’s Day.
She is a resident of Perth Village, Branch Road, Mahaicony and a mother of two who is very friendly and down-to-earth but shy.
The 48-year-old told the
ago.
Her nephew lives in the upper flat of the edifice and she occupies the lower flat of the huge two-storey house.
Johney stated that she is doing quite well because
where she has her sewing machine and spends all her free time sewing based on dressmaking work she has to complete for certain times.
Being a seamstress is all about pleasing the customers
and giving them the exact fit to make a statement in the fashion industry and for them to feel extra special while attending the event they were invited to.
Johney manages her time
well and has found a way to do all her housework before sitting at the sewing machine to get outfits made according to specifications.
With some years under her belt, she has made a name
for herself because her work speaks for itself and she has amassed her clients from both within the village and ite environs.
ANGELA Burnetta, better known as ‘Aunty Angie’, is well-known in Perth Village, Branch Road, Mahaicony because she is one of the locals who is involved in the Perth/Union Burial Society and a shopkeeper.
She told the Pepperpot Magazine that the Perth/ Union Burial Society was instituted in 1930 and is still in operation to date, functioning with more 300 members with a benefit levy of $65,000 per burial.
Burnetta added that they would usually have awards ceremonies for learners who excel academically and maternity benefits per member.
She pointed out that the society was created due to poverty to assist people in the burial of their dead with a one-time pay-out of a lump sum to offset expenses.
Burnetta disclosed that they had a lot more members but a lot of people dropped out and they have some members from as far, as Essequibo.
She stated that the people of Perth Village are very resilient and when the pandemic hit Guyana, they found ways of earning from their homes by doing barbeques, takeaway lunches, and other things.
The 65-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that the village is flood-prone and
is a resident of Middle Street, Perth Village.
She is a local of Perth Village and said it is a very quiet and good place to reside because the people are very close-knit and have togetherness.
Grundall pointed out that things are usually quiet except when a function in the village happens almost every weekend.
She stated that the only newcomers in the village are those that married into the community because most of the people there have lived all their lives there and their way of life is very simple.
Grundall reported that the locals of Perth Village are Afro Guyanese, but they
most everybody in the village plants and they grow their own chickens so the feed is plentiful and whatever is in season is shared among locals or sold at a low cost.
“Around here, the people are really good and they would give you whatever they have but since they are farmers some would sell their produce right in the village to earn and that is very understandable,” she said.
Grundall disclosed that in Perth Village when people get barrels from overseas they would pack a bag and share whatever they get and
around the holidays cake and other goodies are exchanged, as well.
As a teacher, she told the Pepperpot Magazine that after schools re-opened after the two years it was closed due to the pandemic, there have been some challenges as it relates to teaching.
Grundall explained that there are a lot of slow learners and it has been trying to prepare them for exams because when they were at home, they weren’t homeschooled or didn’t participate in the online sessions.
She reported that they
have been trying their utmost to host extra lessons and promote various forms of learning to stimulate the slow learners.
Grundall told the Pepperpot Magazine that they haven’t yielded good grades and for example her son, who was hit by the pandemic since third grade wrote nine subjects and only passed four.
She added that with the resources at their disposal they have been incorporating newer ways to promote learning in the classroom.
She reported that the primary role of the Perth/Union Burial Society is to ensure monies are collected and benefits are disbursed.
Burnetta noted that they have members within the village and some who live outside the community and per member a registration fee of $100 is required.
when the rainy season sets in the water comes and goes but the mud is there to stay.
The team also met Sonia Grundall, a teacher attached to Mahaicony Secondary School for the past 17 years and is a mother of three, who
have a few East Indians and they co-exist in peace.
“Like in the countryside, you don’t have a spend like you would in the city or elsewhere because this is a place you can go over by your neighbour and get two dry coconuts and some greens to start a pot,” she said.
Grundall related that al-
By Michel Outridge
LIFE these days for Patrick Fox has taken an unlikely turn from the norm he is accustomed to, but he remains optimistic that he will be able to regain the use of his legs.
Fox is a resident of James Avenue, Perth Village, Branch Road, Mahaicony and he is one of the
normal day for him at work as a carpenter then he began experiencing some pains in the neck, which travelled to his back and he realised he would no longer walk.
Fox related that it happened quite suddenly and he was not ill as such. He had to seek immediate medical attention to be diagnosed.
The father of two stated that he was bedridden until
He explained that he has moved from having no movement in his legs to actual actions and it is a good sign and he is taking things one day at a time given his condition.
“I went from being able-bodied to not walking and it happened fast, so I could not explain what happened to me, but I can feel it. I will walk again,” he said.
locals the team met during a walkabout in the community.
The 70-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that three months ago, it was a
he acquired a wheelchair to move around and he has been doing self-therapy to move his legs and he is of the view he will be able to walk again in time.
Fox is originally from Governors Light, Mahaicony Creek and his wife is from Antigua and they married and settled in Perth Village after he acquired a
plot of land and constructed his house.
During this time, being at
home, Fox said he is reflecting on his life and he is very grateful that his wife is by his
side every step of the way.
ALTHOUGH she is not from the village, Shondell Roberston has been elected as the Overseer of the Perth/Chance Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) since 2012 and is doing her outmost to ensure her role is fulfilled to its capacity.
The NDC covers three constituencies from #40 to #10, then #10 to Chance villages and the NDC consists of six members including the Chairman Marlon McRae.
Presently the NDC office is housed on the lower flat of the Perth Burial Society and Hall building as a rental until their office which is being constructed at the Community Centre Ground is completed.
Roberston highlighted some developmental works done by the Perth/Chance NDC and of some she stated
that through their annual subvention they have allocated money for the construction of the NDC building at the playground at Broomland.
She disclosed that apart from the Perth Nursery School there isn’t any other government building in the community which is basical-
ly a farming village of rice, cash crops, livestock and poultry.
Roberston added that under their Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CCIP) they have in their employ 11 workers along with a team leader, who are responsible for the maintenance of parapets and drains in the 11 villages they cover.
She reported that their rates and taxes collection is very poor because they do not generate a lot of money to do anything as such they solely depend on the annual subvention for all projects to
enhance the villages they cover.
The NDC Overseer pointed out that the community centre ground is not operational because the ground needs land-filling and at present it is overrun by weeds and no games are played here.
She added that a pavilion needs to be constructed and the
pitch will have to be upgraded before games are played there.
Roberston reported that the boys and men in the village have been utilising an empty plot to play basketball and football.
She looks forward for the completion of the NDC building because there are many challenges renting and at first they had a bat infestation.
“We are doing what we can with the money received through the administration subvention and we are hoping to garner more money via rats and taxes collection,” she said.
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Meanwhile, Councillor Paula Morris told the Pepperpot Magazine that she has been residing in Perth Village for the past 20 years and they have always had a problem with collection of rates and taxes simply because people are not paying up.
She pointed out that with the more than 5000 population they can garner enough funds to do a lot of developmental works within the villages they cover.
Morris is of the hope things can change so they can benefit form good roads and internal streets which are very muddy and they are flood prone.
Joycelyn Charles, the elder
Joycelyn Charles is one of the elders of Perth Village, Branch road, Mahaicony and when the team visited she was trying to do some laundry to catch the bit of sunshine that day.
The 64-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is a mother of two and her daughter is living with her and she has a small shop.
She describes life in Perth Village as being fair and peaceful.
Faye Richmond was out and about that day, she had gone to a villager to buy some squash and was at the shop when the team met her
making a purchase of chicken to go home and prepare a meal.
The 67-yearold stated reported that she is a cash crop farmer but with the rains and flood she lost all her crops and is now buying vegetables because there is nothing left.
Richmond added that she has three adoptive children and she is raring some chickens and has a very simple life in Perth Village.
She is hoping for good weather to re-plant so she can earn.
FROM PAGE VI
at central Mahaicony to sell when he has a harvest.
The elder stated that he came from a family of five brothers and two sisters, two of whom have since passed away and their lives were simple because his parents were farmers who worked the land to earn.
James also makes his own coconut oil from dry coconuts on his property and he would use that oil solely for cooking and for his skin.
He would make enough to last him a while and when it is depleted, he would make another fresh batch to store.
“I don’t cook all day, I would make one meal that would last all day so I have time to do other things,” he said.
Meanwhile, while passing through Belmonte/Mahaica Market the team met a spritely licensed butcher, Seline Singhroy of North Supply, Mahaica.
The 65-year-old is an energetic person who has a very giving disposition; on some days she would give away more than she sells.
Singhroy told the Pepperpot Magazine that she became a licensed butcher more than 40 years ago and would usually sell beef at the Mahaica Market on Fridays and Saturdays, but due to the festive season she would be there from Mondays to Saturdays for the period.
The mother of two sells a pound of halall beef for only $600 and had all cuts available, including meats for the
pepperpot and curry or stew.
Singhroy told the Pepperpot Magazine that her husband was a trained teacher and back then they had very little and she came from a family of 11 siblings, so instead of going to school she had to work and became a butcher.
She co-owns the butchery with her sons, has a stall at a good spot, and provides employment for two men.
Singhroy is also a farmer of fruits and has some cows.
“Giving is part of me, so when I can I would give whatever I have to people even my customers, because we must help each other to have a better world,” she said.
FROM PAGE VII
She takes her time to get it right at the sewing machine, which makes her one of the best in her trade.
“Living here is good, the people make it worth the while and I don’t feel like I don’t fit in,” she said.
Meanwhile, the team also met Deon Ross, a poultry farmer, who was plucking some fully grown meat birds to sell to a wholesale buyer right in Perth Village, Branch Road, Mahaicony.
The 34-year-old stated that he likes being self-employed and would ensure his meat birds are fed and have enough water before he does anything else because it is his ‘bread and butter’.
Ross is a very simple man who would rear meat birds to sell. He would also do all the plucking before he takes it to the shop.
He was at the time plucking 12 full-grown chickens and had an early start that morning because he had other chores to complete.
Ross explained that he would buy the baby chickens from the hatchery in quantities that he could manage and after six to seven weeks, when they are full-term, he would sell to earn.
He also rears some ducks and creole fowls and is also a cash crop farmer who is using the land space in his backyard to plant bora, plantains, and coconuts, among other crops of fruits.
Clensford Watson, the farmer and ‘jack of all trades’
The team also encountered Clensford Watson, a local of Perth Village, Branch Road, Mahaicony, who was at that time waist-deep in a drain at Middle Street, cleaning it of weeds.
The 49-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he was doing that job for a few hours and he would be paid about $3000.
Watson is a cash crop farmer and he would also do all kinds of jobs in the community to bring in extra income.
He sells his produce right in the village and he is supported by the people, who would buy whatever is in season to prepare meals for their families.
Watson has his plot of farmlands at #10 Village and he has crops of fine thyme, bananas, plantains and cassava.
From the looks of it, he is a very hard worker who does many things to earn honestly and provide adequately for his family.
“It doesn’t matter what job you do. Once it is honest, it is alright and no one should look down on you for that,” he said.
FROM PAGE IX
He has built a wind turbine in addition to the solar he has for his house for power and he is using paddy shells mixed with dirt for moulding the many plants in his yard.
Fox is a farmer, too but has been unable to do any form of gardening for the past three months but will resume this activity when he is able.
He added that life has been good and he has been residing in Perth Village for more than 25 years.
Fox noted that he has good neighbours and the people of the community will assist in any way possible once there is a need and he is happy about their simple but good way of life.
The team also met Paula Haley, a resident of Middle Street, Perth Village and she is an indoor kind of a person who only goes out when it is absolutely necessary due to chronic
arthritis in the hips, shoulder and knees.
The 57-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that years ago she used to work filling rice and paddy bags but these days, she is unable to do any hard labour due to severe body pains.
Haley added that life in Chester Drive, Perth Village is good and she has been living there for 28 years and the people of that community are good folk.
The mother of three related that she was working at Burma Road with a contractor filling paddy bags, a manual job.
She also worked at a dryer (rice mill) in the village for many years until five years ago she was overwhelmed with pain and had to quit the job.
Haley had left the village for a while and was living in Linden but returned after being homesick and loves the peace and tranquillity of Perth Village.
She is the grandmother of six and one of her grandsons, Marcus Burke was at her home spending a few days with her.
Haley reported that if she has to go out her son-in-law would come and take her wherever she needs to go and to do her shopping in central Mahaicony and she is grateful about that.
“In this village you really don’t have to worry about nothing because the people here are really good and they would assist in any way needed and we look out for each other and it is a good place to live,” she said.
TODAY is Christmas Day and our first reaction is to wish our readers and all consumers “Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year” and our traditional and sincere commitment to “Goodwill towards all men”.
Christmas is the oldest holiday in Guyana. It was celebrated during the time of plantation slavery when slaves were given a holiday and permitted to consume as much sugar and drink as much rum as they wished. It was the one day in the year they were permitted to visit friends and relatives in other plantations, and they did so to the accompaniment of much drumming and dancing. It is believed that the post-Emancipation Masquerade Bands originated from such visiting processions.
Whatever may have been the origin of the Masquerade Bands and other suggested origins, the Bands continued
and became an integral part of the Guyanese Christmas. The large numbers of indentured immigrants who were brought to the colony in the 19th century from Madeira, China, Barbados, and India each made their contributions to the growth of the Guyanese Christmas and by the end of the 1920s, the Guyanese Christmas with its unique characteristics had evolved.
All homes became immersed in a flurry of activity with thorough house cleaning and the renewal of furniture with re-varnishing and re-polishing, resulting in the pleasant odour of varnish becoming one of the smells of Christmas. Cake making was done on the 23rd or 24th before Christmas and this involved the washing of salted butter, the “beating” of eggs, the preparation of fruits such as currants, raisins, prunes and almonds, and walnuts, the careful mixing of all
ingredients with the correct quantities of flour, sugar, and rum. Black cakes that had been prepared weeks before were ready for baking. Baking commenced in the late afternoon or evening of Christmas Eve and the pleasant odour of cake baking was one of the smells of Christmas. Christmas lunch and dinner were prepared.
Christmas carols and other Christmas music were broadcast throughout the Season and were the characteristic sound of the Guyanese Christmas. The media carried stories of Christmas. Public dances and house parties were held everywhere and live music was engaged, especially at the public dances. The exchange of Christmas cards was a charming custom until the Internet killed it. Exchange of gifts of cakes, homemade drinks and wine, jams and jellies, and local and foreign fruit were de rigueur of the
season. All homes and shops, even the smallest, were decorated with bright tinsel, artificial flowers including holly and mistletoe, and fairy lights blinking the Christmas colours of red, green, blue, and gold. The poor were always remembered and given gifts of food and even clothes. The entire society throbbed with nervous energy from the end of November and it was assumed that the joys of this national culture fest would be with us forever.
In 1966, Independence was granted to Guyana and three powerful, sudden and unexpected forces arose to destroy Christmas. These forces were different from those of Marley and Scrooge since they were more fundamental. In the first place, the government of the day made the “De-emphasising of Christmas” into national policy; then, with poor management and the rise of racial-political strife, the country fell into an abyss
in the Guyanese psyche was Christmas that it managed to survive this tsunami of destructive forces.
It survived in a much-weakened form with most of its traditions shorn away and these could only now be recalled nostalgically. Gone are the many masquerade bands, the exchange of Christmas cards and gifts of homemade cakes and drinks and fruit, the public dances and numerous house parties, and the overwhelming feeling of joyousness that enveloped the society at this Season.
The Guyanese Christmas is, however beginning to reemerge but in a different, though still recognisable form. Cakes are mostly
stronger each year. With Guyana being an oil-producing country, many Guyanese from the Diaspora are returning and many of the old customs are being resuscitated. Decorations are beginning to be as lavish as formerly and remembering the poor is on the upsurge. Gift-giving is no longer homemade products but is largely replaced by imported confections and various manufactured items. Christmas is beginning to resemble that of the urban developed countries and many think that this is inevitable as Guyana, as a wealthy oil-rich country, begins to enter the club of the modern developed world.
of economic disaster with imports almost ceasing; and disastrous economic hardship combined with the growth of authoritarianism engendered hopelessness which caused more than half the population to emigrate from the country. The society fell into disarray and the remaining population’s sole concern was survival. But so deeply rooted
ordered from patisseries, aerated drinks and reconstituted fruit juices have replaced the homemade, cocktail parties have largely replaced house parties, families come together for reunions since so many of them live elsewhere, and so on.
Christmas is now in good health and is growing
Many are however convinced that the “folksy”, personalised ethos of the old Guyana Christmas could never be effaced and will be quietly synthesized into the ‘developed- country’ style. But all Guyanese believe Christmas will never disappear from Guyana and grow stronger.
JOHN ‘Slingshot’ Drepaul gave us the iconic song “Christmas in Guyana”a tune that you probably heard at least 10 times in the past week if you’re in Guyana. Because of the time I spent documenting some of the ‘Guyanese things’ at Christmas, I think Slingshot’s song encapsulates much of what is part of a quintessential Guyanese Christmas.
I must admit that right at the beginning of this column, I’m writing it with an immense amount of bias. All my life, I’ve loved Christmas time. I loved the decorations, the untouchable goodies on
lights across my room. In between that labour of love (or possibly what I’ve been indoctrinated into doing), I heard a group of people singing Christmas songs outside our complex. The Guyanese in me did not hesitate to peep through my curtains and what I saw was a sizable group of men and women dressed in Santa hats, singing outside our gate. The ‘fastness’ consumed me and I went outside to ask what they were doing. A neighbour explained that they were simply carolling, and it was their last night of doing so this year.
I don’t know what celebrations are unique to every
more “Christmassy” Guyanese things that I know and love. And again, I was reminded of these this past week. You see, I wanted to curate a photo story of sorts of what Christmas time in Guyana is like. I captured photos of the fairy lights and decorations on buildings and in open spaces; even in a minibus! Naturally, I also found myself walking down Regent Street, Georgetown, with my camera in hand. Our bodies were pressed against each as people hurriedly sought their new curtains and tableware. I myself bought new mats and household items (perhaps, again, the Christmas indoctrination!).
my family’s kitchen table, and all of the gifts (which were, more often than not, tons of books ready to excite my overactive imagination). Despite the back-aching labour that must be done (even now that I live alone!) and the possibly problematic consumerist frenzy, Christmas time has always brought me some inexplicable joy and hope for the new year.
A lot of my happy feelings about Christmas are linked to the over-the-top but seriously important ways we celebrate Christmas in Guyana. And I only realised that when I attempted to write this column.
This year, before writing this column, I cleaned every nook and cranny of my apartment. I changed my curtains and bedsheets and hung fairy
community across Guyana, but I do recall growing up in Success, on the East Coast of Demerara, and eagerly awaiting the group of Christmas carollers. My mother would take off our house lights and leave only the fairy lights on at night and while we sat in the hammock outside or stayed inside munching on pringles or marshmallows, we would eagerly await the sound of a metal spoon beating a milk tin. You heard that distinctive sound before any of the carollers’ voices singing foreign Christmas songs in our Guyanese creole. Then and now, just the act of singing Christmas songs for people was a joyful thing. Never once did the singing make me cringe or feel offended in any way.
Beyond this, there are
I also found myself craving pepperpot ever so oftenthough I am a pescatarian! The inaugural Pepperpot festival, I think, was a fantastic way of celebrating this national dish and ushering in the Christmas season. Fortunately for me, it meant that I found new places to get my ‘veggie pepperpot’ (yes, it is a thing and yes, it is delicious!). Pepperpot is just one of the beloved Christmas dishes here and though I do get it year-round at a nearby food shop, the importance that we attach to Pepperpot (and other dishes/ delicacies) at Christmas adds another layer of uniqueness to the season, for me.
I think it is important to appreciate these little things and so much that help to make Christmas time in Guyana a unique, joyous one. I feel a sense of pride knowing that we battle cultural erasure every day, but some things endure the test of time.
Despite the foregoing, I’d like to use these last few lines to acknowledge that as joyous and festive as the season may be, it is a difficult time for many. And it is hard not to spare a thought for those going through trying times and unable to enjoy the festive season as best as they might want to. So, I end this week’s column by sending love and light, for what it’s worth, and my best wishes for 2023.
ANNA stared in awe at the huge Christmas tree in the mall decorated with gold lights, multi-coloured ornaments, and garlands. At the top of the tree was a glittering golden star and she gasped, marveling at how incredibly beautiful it was. In her little heart was the joy and wonderful feeling this blessed season brings.
“Anna,” her father was calling, “C’mon.”
She ran to him and took his hand, elated he had taken a day off from work so they could go Christmas shopping. She also wanted to see Santa Claus because she had a special secret wish to tell him.
“Ho, ho, ho!” Santa greeted her, “What’s your name, little girl?”
“I’m Anna,” she said, then whispered, “I have a special wish.”
“Okay,” Santa whispered back, “What’s your wish?”
She handed him a note and he smiled a bit uncertain as he read it. The child had asked for a special miracle for her Christmas gift.
She wanted a mother.
Anna had been only four years old when her mother was called away to the Lord’s home, leaving her alone with her father. They had always celebrated the Christmas holidays together, but her mother’s absence had left a void. It was never the same, not without that refreshing scent in the house, her radiant smile, and her cheerful voice.
The little girl, now eight years old, wanted her own little family with someone like the mother she had lost. She knew her father was still sad and though he had gone out on dates sometimes, he still seemed lonely.
“How do I find her?” the child had wondered, and everywhere she went; church, supermarket, movies, park, her little heart could not recognise anyone.
So this Christmas, she decided to ask Santa.
That night, her father kissed her good night, “Sweet dreams, my little princess.”
“Good night, daddy,” she said with a sweet smile.
Her father looked at her sleeping face, sadness in his eyes. It was so hard still to deal with the loss of his wife and now his child craving for a mother’s love.
The school’s Christmas concert was two weeks away and Anna was busy with rehearsals for she was singing with the choir and doing a solo, but Mrs. Farier, the music teacher, unexpectedly fell ill with just four days left to the big night. No one else could be found to take her place at such short notice and it was getting close to the panic time for the children and their parents.
But it was Christmas, a season when magical things do happen.
A pianist friend of one of the teachers on vacation from the Netherlands offered to help.
It was a chilly morning and the children had gathered in the music room, not sure if they would be able to perform in the concert, when a mellow voice said from the door, “Good morning, children.”
Standing at the door was a stunningly beautiful woman with lustrous dark brown hair and a simple and casual outlook.
“Good morning,” they said in unison.
“My name is Arianna, and I’m your volunteer music
I HAVE so many great memories of Christmas, especially during my childhood. We did not have much, but we were contented with what we had with joy in our hearts. I invited some people to share their experiences of their most memorable Christmas. I reached out to some of my friends to find out what their fondest memories are at this time of year.
Cianna is from my hometown Bartica, and I saw her grow from a baby. I admire all the characters in her Christmas story.
“Christmas 1996 is the last I would say that left a lasting impression in my life. Breakfast is traditional garlic pork, pickle onion, or pepper pot with homemade bread or cakes from the night before. We usually decorated early because the family feast was most important. I remember my Grandmother Zita and Aunts Jackie and Minette in the kitchen with our traditional stuffed whole chicken, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, fruit salad, and raisin or vegetable rice.
My father came last, as usual, with my stepmother Sandra Sookdeo at the time.
Cousins galore as we were responsible for setting up the fruit salad with condensed milk and decoratively arranging the platters with garnish. But most important was a little corner that I use now for onion and garlic (smiling) with nuts, apples, grapes, and sweets (Cayenne bananas for grannie as they were her favourite, were always there).
We waited until sometimes two or three for my Grandfather, James Persaud, to come home to cut the chicken and for anyone to eat lunch.
It wasn’t a demand as anyone can eat at any time. I remember the smaller kids taking a small meal but for me. My food tasted better when he took it out. It was a time for everyone to put aside their differences for the
day and eat together. Prayers first of course, because discipline was very high on my Grampie’s values, right next to “your word is your bond” and truth always comes out.
I remember wanting a football badly that year, but dad got me a chess set at the insistence of Aunty Sandra. I was disappointed on Christmas Day, but she assured me that a sharp mind is the best weapon for a girl.
I was my grandfather’s favourite and usually saved to buy my gifts. But that year, I got everyone something useful.
My disappointment didn’t slip with him when we opened gifts because I smiled and accepted graciously. He was like that, always observing.
My father taught me chess and I played by myself after that. But by the next day, ‘gramps’ got me two footballs (red and orange). I will never forget that sound of the ball (doof!) off of the concrete wall. He taught me to dodge, breathe and run. But most importantly, he taught me that day that you will fall hard but getting up is hardest.”
I went across to our southern Caribbean neighbour and Jamilia’s story about her father made me wish I had one of those father-daughter moments.
“My father and I were estranged for the first 17 years of my life. I didn’t know he existed or who he was because, as far as I knew, my stepfather was my father. When I finally met my dad, I learned so much about myself because, in so many ways, I was his mirror. We shared a love of travel, culture, and subculture.
Our first Christmas was
an unwelcome adventure, for me at least. To have an epic Christmas with him, I flew from New York to Atlanta in the middle of a snowstorm. Amidst the flight delays and crowds of stranded passengers, I remember being afraid
with him for 17 years! I approached the airline representative forlorn and frustrated, expecting her to say, “Sorry, ma’am, the flight is booked up,” and she did. A million thoughts rushed through my head, why didn’t my father
deep conversations against the backdrop of Atlanta’s Peach Tree Street. We zipped around Atlanta on his Vesper, had the most amazing food, and drank impeccable wine. We shopped while my father updated me on the ‘scene’ in Atlanta and as always, he gave salient advice.
My father and I have had so many other adventures since then, Tokyo one September, Venice and Paris on New Year’s Day another year, and endless other jaunts around the United States of America. With every trip, I got to know him better and was present in who I am. Every piece of advice has been a building block in my character.
My father is no longer with us and I’m often reminded of our various adventures, all the wisdom he has imparted, and the impact of our first Christmas.”
I met father Andre Marie Aboudi in Abidjan and I am happy he shared an experience from that part of the world.
“My first Christmas in a non-Catholic country occurred on December 25, 2000, in Ulan Bator, Mongolia. Coming from a country where liturgically and socially, Christmas celebrations are very significant and largely celebrated, my first Christmas in Ulan Bator was relatively calm. The only external sign was that it snowed heavily, and everywhere was sparkling white. I enjoyed the snow cotton buds on the little pine trees on the streets, but the surroundings were tranquil. Towards 9:00 am, while I was walking to church, I started seeing people going to their different occupations. I arrived at the church with just a handful of foreigners and a few Mongolians. It was a beautiful celebration but nothing compared to my country. After the festival, I came home, and at this moment, it dawned on me that I was in a non-Catholic country and started appreciating a different way of celebrating Christmas from how I am used to celebrating. I have celebrated more than 18 Christmas in the same country and region. Christmas is, therefore, the celebration of joy.”
to board the plane and equally afraid that I won’t get a flight.
Magically I was the last to get on to the last connection to North Carolina, which meant that if I missed the last flight from North Carolina to Atlanta, I was stuck there for Christmas.
As I exited the plane and entered the Charlotte, North Carolina Airport, I was overwhelmed and sad. I was so angry because I was only able to see my father once a year after not having time
come to see me in New York?
I love New York. He knows that. My thoughts were interrupted by the representative’s southern American accent. “Ma’am, great news, we were able to get you on this flight.” I was ecstatic!
I arrived in Atlanta at 11:00 pm that night, just in time for Christmas. It was the best Christmas ever! I realised, as is my father’s way, he curated something beautiful. My father planned a trip filled with visits to the Atlanta botanical gardens and
“I spent my first Christmas in a remote village near Ulaanbaatar City in Mongolia. With children well dressed and full of joy to receive gifts, one of them came closer to me and asked if I had seen Jesus and what his message was to the children of their village. I answered Jesus wants children to be happy and always friends with one another. Then he took one chocolate he received, gave it to me, and said this is my gift for Jesus and you.”
Sister Lucille Munchie also shared her story.
I met Professor Samuel Oheneba Dornyo in Ghana and we were seated at the same table when I received my award and we had the opportunity for great conversations. He shared an inspiring Christmas experience with us.
“Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and creating special memories with loved ones. For me, having the best Christmas as a particularly memorable holiday means a lot as it marks another Christmas without my wife, who passed away 14 years ago. However, this is also the first Christmas that I celebrate with my newfound love and our combined family of six children.
On Christmas Eve, we
IT is a rare occasion that a weekly columnist has the opportunity to wish a whole country Happy Holidays on the actual day of the holiday. I hope that everyone who is celebrating is having the day they wanted to manifest and one which lived up to their desired expectations, one that I truly believe we all deserve.
While I’m aware we do not all celebrate this holiday, I feel it is still a special time when people are generally nicer and feel a little more relaxed.
Christmas Day has always been my second favourite day of the year (a close second to my birthday). Most importantly, how I feel about it and what I enjoy the most have evolved and grown as I have over the years. When I was a child, nothing made me happier than to see the gifts pile up under the tree, like most, I’m sure. Now, I get less than a quarter of the presents I once did, but the same excitement comes from the simplest of things. I feel genuinely happy when I hear my sister sing her favourite carols, I feel instant joy when I see Christmas decorations and I get almost too excited when I smell Pepperpot and Christmas cookies.
As we age, we start to realise what is truly important and it is almost always the little things and the people in our lives. For the lucky ones, family traditions come out at Christmas. Whether it is opening presents while eating breakfast together, watching ‘Home Alone’ or carolling together, family traditions unite all generations and create memories that strengthen the family unit. This tends to happen as most people are in a better mood during this holiday season. I am certain that I smile and laugh more at Christmas than at any other time of the year. This is great as my research shows that a good, hearty laugh lowers blood pressure and stress while increasing mood and general immune system functioning.
The season also encourages socialisation. We actually see most of our friends and family face to face rather than on a screen.
I also love Christmas as it keeps me in the now. Very often, when I’m out having a good time, I tend to think of what
I have to do or what I could or should be doing. I notice that I do not feel that way during the holidays; I enjoy my time off, every conversation and the present moment- and you can too!
As importantly, Christmas encourages generosity, gratitude, kindness and forgiveness. You do not have to conduct scientific studies to derive the conclusion that giving and receiving gifts come with an emotional high. Even if we forget receiving for a second, the selfless act of giving strongly correlates with happiness and has overpowering benefits. We all know that feeling of giving someone special a gift that we know they will love. I believe that money cannot buy happiness unless you spend it on other people. Kindness and giving are contagious. When we give, we aren’t only giving to the immediate recipient, but we are creating a ripple effect of kindness and generosity that may reach even hundreds of other people whom we have not yet met. I also love Christmas because I know charity increases during this period. Be a part of that chain!
I believe that we all want to feel happy, loved and at peace and what better time to push for that than now, when the feelings of joy and appreciation are almost everywhere we look – the decorations, the joyful words and the songs streaming through our radios and television. Do your best to remain positive and hopeful today as of all days, today is one to believe in miracles.
I would also like to acknowledge those suffering from mental health issues and are not in the ‘Christmas Spirit’ today. As much as I love the holidays, I am aware of the added stress, pressure and overindulgence that may negatively
has a sweet voice, you’ve got to meet her.”
teacher.”
“Hooray!” everyone cheered.
She had a warm, lovely smile, light dancing in her soft brown eyes and Anna felt her heart exulting with joy.
“Oh my gosh,” she gasped quietly, “Is she the one?”
She stayed calm, focusing on her rehearsal, and by the end of the class session, she was sure Arianna was the one.
She could hardly wait to get home to tell her father, breathless in her excitement. He held her gently by the shoulders, “Whoa, whoa, take a deep breath and speak slowly.”
“She’s very beautiful and
“Okay, she sounds like a nice person,” the father said in a casual tone, not wanting to add to his daughter’s excitement, “But she and I are strangers to each other and she may not find me interesting.”
“You are a handsome and nice guy. Why shouldn’t she be?”
“Well, she could be married.”
“There’s no ring on her finger.”
“She could have a boyfriend.”
“Well, maybe, but you could at least try,” she urged him, “Please.”
“Okay,” he said with a sigh, “Anything for you.”
Arianna was at the piano
rehearsing with the choir when Anna’s father stopped by.
“Hello,” he said apologetically, “Sorry to interrupt, just checking to see how my little girl is doing.”
“And who is…?” she was about to ask when Anna raised her hand.
“Hi, Dad!”
Arianna smiled and said, “She’s doing great.”
Anna’s father nodded, smiling casually with just that hint of charm, and for that short moment, as they looked at each other, something happened that the child had wished for. On the last day before the Christmas concert, as the session ended and the children began to leave, Anna hesitated, wanting to say something to the teacher but
not knowing how to.
Arianna noticed the child’s hesitancy and called her, “Anna, is there something on your mind you would like to talk about?”
“Yes, Miss.”
She took a deep breath and asked, “Would you like to marry my father?”
Arianna looked at her taken back by surprise, and for a moment, she was speechless.
“What?”
“I don’t have a mom and I asked Santa for a mom for Christmas so when you came, I knew it was you.”
Arianna felt touched by the child’s words and she said with an understanding smile and a tinge of regret, “I am sorry for the loss of your mother, but I really don’t know your father well.”
“He’s a nice guy and he thinks you’re very beautiful.”
“Well that’s nice to know,” Arianna said with a little laugh, “So hear’s what,
influence many.
If you feel this way, I want you to know that you’re not alone and I hope this piece can provide some sort of relief and maybe even joy.
Happy Holidays Everyone! Thanking you for reading.
we have a concert to do and maybe we will talk about this later.”
Anna felt happy that she might get her wish but she did not see Arianna after the concert.
It was the day before Christmas Eve when Arianna stopped by to say, she couldn’t stay for Christmas. Her family wanted her to return home because of a proposal from a business magnate’s son they needed to discuss with her. Anna felt the joy in her heart melt and tears rolled down her cheeks. On Christmas morning, she did not rush down the stairs to see what Santa had brought for her but stayed huddled in bed, a broken-hearted child.
Her father tried to cheer her up, “Don’t you want to see what Santa brought for you?”
“No.”
“I think you should.”
He lifted her up in his
arms and told her to close her eyes as he took her down the stairs.
He put her down gently and said, “Now open your eyes.”
There by the Christmas tree was the most beautiful gift Anna could have wanted – dark hair, a lovely smile, and a light in her eyes.
“Merry Christmas, Anna,” Arianna said.
“You didn’t leave!” Anna squealed in delight and ran to her to hug her.
“I don’t know how,” Arianna said, hugging the little girl, “But I was overcome by a strong feeling in my heart, not to leave, and I thought I’d get to know your father a little more.”
He smiled and the look he shared with Arianna spoke more than words could.
Anna felt like the happiest girl in the world for she had gotten her Christmas gift, wrapped in love.
THE cosmic concept that established the matriarchal sacredness and the mother of God concept rests with the ancient astronomers/ astrologers of Khemet, (or Greek -Egypt). They had over sentries devised a cosmic language, recorded in Hieroglyphs and also in art that embodied their research and conclusions. Their ancient observations of the Solstices. Concluded that the predominant legend of divine birth revolved around the myth of the sky Goddess, Nut: Without further complex details, “the mythology of the sky goddess giving birth to Ra, catalyzed both timekeeping and calendar development, endowed the concept of divine royalty, and instituted the matrilineal inheritance of the throne.”
See-ASTRONOMY before the telescope: that practice of Royal Matriarchal lineage was also common throughout most of pre-colonial Africa. It is further understood why Miriam (Mary) was the focus of and is inseparable in the pageantry of the Christmas story, the innocent and protective motherhood. But also the entourage of the Three Kings- ( based on what we have learned of the ancient world, no three Kings, garbed in rich silks and jewellery, would have survived a mile outside on any walled kingdom or survived Herod’s anger, so they were well accompanied on their journey by columns of armed protection, enough to temper hostility to their message) the ‘Wise’ men were guided by a telling mystic star; the
three Kings, reached the child with their symbolic gifts, in a home with his mother and father, and with their army departed safely. But it was children, the infant males of Bethlehem as the saga unfolded, who paid the price of their prophetic summary.
Christmas in our Caribbean world, for the coupled family, or the bachelor, with a visiting lady, is navigated by the woman, if you walk the streets of our townships or Georgetown during shopping days, it is the female who is managing what and when which holiday need
is to be filled, directing at home where and how male prowess is to be applied. You can hide, brother, but you have to go home to the chore conversation, and as I was warned as a young man, it is not healthy to be averse to the cook, and Christmas is a high-tension mood swing;
advise, yield, or reason towards compromise, because it’s a wiser posture. Twenty-five years ago, some stores sold toys as a significant shopping department. Today, home accessories are the dominant features. Somehow, the forced contribution of the infant sons of Bethlehem is lost in the current Christmas dialogue, and with them, the nurturing of the imagination of the ‘child.’ Nothing is wrong with home appliances.
As a child, I was aware of home appliances. There was not that wide variation then. They represented Christmas food and music among the expectations of new home holiday-bought appliances.
But there was also the formable ‘Coal Pot’ Christmas was an effort to construct a home Menu that was not in throughout the year. Pepper Pot, baked chicken, black, fruit, sponge cake, and the works, including homemade Sorrel Ginger Beer and homemade Bread, were symbols of Christmas. But the ultimate thrill to the young, was the gifts from various sources, under the Christmas tree.
The Christmas tree must never be treated as casual. We must wake up to the symbolism of the Christmas tree. All or most cultures before the construct of this celebration ‘the Mass of Christ,’ did adhere to a sacred ‘Tree of Life’. It is our ancient reverence to the protection, sustenance, and gifts of healing that nature has given us.
We do things that span the 3 million years from primate to Human Sapiens evolution or adjusted creation because our genes and memories
do transcend the man-made doctrines that twist and with divisive temerity abuse the profound to justify self-serving cravings; The tree of Life represented by ‘The Christmas Tree’ in its symbolic presence is crowned by a Cosmic Star, and at its root, rest Gifts. Does it have to be artificial and store-bought? The answer is no. Any tree in your protection can be the symbolic ‘Tree of Life’ once you understand the significance and respect for nature’s blessings and the part that trees have played towards ‘being’ responsible for our planetary existence. There are arguments that Christianity was used to enslave us. Of course, its true; modern churches are also known to enslave their congregation towards the enrichment of the few most religions were used to suppress, along racial, gender, and thoroughly imposing spiritual, mental and economic bondage on dumb masses of believers, the godless political-isms are no better.
Therefore, it is necessary to explore and question rather than construct a self-made cell within the prisons we can identify, start with the timeline of the prison you can identify, and make your first evaluation. The inspiration will follow towards the next exploration. But recognize in the construct of Christmas what are the innate pulses that are touched and sensitized beyond mundane commercialism that can bring your family closer to face the challenges; before all of us. And so, a good Christmas to creatures all.
THE holiday season is also known as the season of giving. The holidays are that time of the year when the majority of us are busy with work, shopping for Christmas gifts, going to church, and even giving back to others in our community. It’s Christmas Day and we can finally breathe (right after cooked lunch)—after a long and hefty season of responsibilities and work. We’ve given so much of ourselves to the people and things around us during the holidays that sometimes I think many of us (including myself) forget that we also need to give to ourselves as well. If you’ve been a regular reader of my column piece, by now you’d know how important self-care and reflection are for me. With that in mind, how many of you actually bought a gift for yourself? Did you say something kind to yourself lately? Did you acknowledge how productive you’ve been during the holidays?
The idea that we need to give so much of ourselves and what we have to others is a bit far-fetched for some and there’s no limit. I think it’s important that boundaries are maintained—even during the season of giving. I love the idea that we should give freely and have open arms. While I agree that it shouldn’t only be for a season, I also believe that we must always remember that the “self” comes first. As we reflect on the busy season we endured, I know many of us are beyond tired; we didn’t get to rest as we should have because we neglected our rest and sleep schedule. I know many of us probably refused to stick to our budgets because we overspent on gifts for others. I know many of us are even feeling burnt out because we didn’t take time to slow down and relax for a bit before moving on to the next task after completing one.
Read a book, watch Christmas movies, buy your favourite makeup products, bake your favourite recipes, visit a spa—do what you must to spend time with yourself and take care of YOU. As you reflect on how much of yourself
you’ve given away this holiday—I hope next holiday you remember to give a little of yourself; to yourself, as well. Merry Christmas! From myself and my family to you and yours!
As I mentioned in my previous column, holiday burnout is a major issue for many people around this time. It’s great that we can give our time, energy, love, and even gifts to others during this season of giving, but what sense does it make if you neglect yourself in the process—only to suffer the consequences later? Hence, it’s important that we learn to what extent we can give and stick to that quota. We learn our limits, where the line can be drawn, and stick to it. For many compassionate beings, having a limit to how much we can give and what we can to do help others can be a hard thing to do. Nonetheless, it’s very important that we know what those limitations are and be sure to follow suit when need be. Learn to give yourself a little break, a pat on the back, or even a present that you’ve been eyeing for some time. The phrase; “self-care is not selfish” is one thing that I’ve had to come to terms with throughout the years. You can simultaneously help others while helping yourself as well. Don’t neglect one for the other.
FROM
attend a joyful gospel musical night at our church. The sound of uplifting music fills
the air and brings a sense of peace and happiness to my heart. We sing carols and perform a variety of gospel numbers deep into the night,
and it’s a truly uplifting and inspirational experience.
On Christmas Day, we gather at our church for a special celebration. The
grilling of catfish and all the trimmings with various accompaniments - Banku, potato crisps, yam chipstakes place. We enjoyed this
delicious feast together. It is a joy to be surrounded by church family always and to share in the festive spirit.
Lest I leave you in the
dust, I am surprised at home celebrating my birthday with a special breakfast and homemade goodies - pies, pancakes, toast, oats, and custards for dessert - amidst the stylings of one saxophonist who, dare I say, could herald angels. My children and newfound love serenade me with my favourite songs with the most amazing voices and harmonies. I am grateful to have my new family by my side. We spend the rest of the day chatting and playing games, and it is a truly special and memorable occasion.
As the evening draws to a close, I can’t help but feel grateful for the love and support of my family, current and new. Despite the challenges and heartache of losing my wife, I am blessed to have found a woman who has joined me as a wife and mother to our children. She has brought joy and happiness into my life, and I am grateful for the special memories we have created together already this holiday season while looking forward to many more ahead!”
I lived in Barbados for five years but only spent two Christmases there. It is nice to get a perspective from Barbados and my friend Kofi.
Here is one last story from him:
“Christmas for me growing up in Barbados was filled with family tradition.
My grandmother is oldschool and she picked down the entire house and cleaned every drawer, every knob and every crevice. Then on Christmas Eve, we were on the timer; everything had the be fixed and in place by 9:00 pm so that we could all get ready for Midnight Mass. Our entire family attended church and it was a wonderful feeling.
The most exhilarating feeling though was waking up on Christmas morning to the smell of ham, turkey and fruit cake. Our family is large, so the gifts formed a mini mountain under the Christmas tree and everyone was smiling and happy.
Just as the house was refreshed for Christmas.... our spirits were refreshed, our family spirits were rejuvenated and we were ready to take on the upcoming year.”
Dear Student,
Welcome dear friend. Even though this is a wonderful time of the year, beware of the abandonment of study. Play some; study some. Get out in the fresh air for your health’s sake; gather new ideas and experiences for short stories, and explanatory and descriptive essays; and have a general comprehension of the world you live in. Meet new and interesting people for this and the season ahead when you, by yourself, will be under examination. Be wise.
Merry Christmas.
THE PASSAGE
Read the passage very carefully. There are characteristic about it that you may need to employ in your paragraphs. Respond to the questions below. They are based on what the passage is about.
And that was last Thursday. Tonight is Tuesday. Tonight is Tuesday and my homework’s done, and I darned some stockings that didn’t really need it, and I worked a crossword puzzle and I listened to the radio, and now I am just sitting. I’m just sitting because I can’t think of anything else to do. I can’t think of anything, anything but snowflakes and ice skates and yellow moons and Thursday night. The telephone is sitting on the corner table with its old black face turned to the wall so I can’t see its leer. I don’t even jump when it rings any more. My heart still prays, but my mind just laughs. Outside the night is still, so still I think I’ll go crazy, and the white snow all dirtied and smoked into grayness and the wind is blowing the arc light so it throws weird, waving shadows from the trees onto the lawn – like thin, starved arms begging for I don’t know what. And so I’m just sitting here and I’m not feeling anything; I’m not even sad, because all of a sudden I know. All of a sudden I know. I can sit here now forever and laugh and laugh while the tears run salty in the corners of my mouth. For all of a sudden I know what the stars knew all the time – he’ll never, never call – never.
(“Sixteen” by Maureen Daly)
Even though most paragraphs you read today in books and magazines are not developed by any single method, today’s passage shows that a paragraph can have a regular pattern, especially in exposition. Pay attention to its structure.
Think about the methods you have learned about and employed in paragraph writing during your course of study. They are of many kinds - as many as there are good writers and purposes
for writing.
You would have paid rapt attention to paragraphs developed (1) by examples, (2) by details, (3) by explanation of cause, (4) by contrast, (5) by comparison, (6) by repetition, and (7) by definition. Now follow what you are asked to do next.
1. Look carefully at the passage above. Assess its structure, and then tell what type of development it illustrates. Give your observation in well-structured and related sentences.
2. Write three paragraphs on the life of a family member you know very well, an author of whose novels you have enjoyed, or an historical figure. Try to use a different type of development in each paragraph. You are permitted to use a type that is not developed by any single method. Indicate which type each is.
3. Revise a paper that you are writing or have recently written for classwork. Secure variety by using different types of paragraph development.
The sound of words, as well as their meanings, can contribute to effective description. Sound patterns include rhythm, meter, rhyme, alliteration, assonance, onomatopoeia, and parallelism. Effective writers use these sound devices in prose description, as well as in poetry. You too can learn to use them better as you write with the aim to self-express beautifully.
Writers use description for many purposes: for example, to express feelings, to persuade an audience to act or think in a certain way, or to inform an audience. This kind of writing appears everywhere good writers are. It appears in poetry, as well as in novels, short stories, biographies, news stories, letters, and ads.
You should remember the prewriting stage where you look for a focus for your description. Let these helpful hints awaken you:
* Think of a familiar person, place, or thing.
* Choose a subject you can observe directly.
* Limit your subject to one that you can cover in a
few paragraphs.
Decide if your purpose is to write a subjective (first-person; informal, personal) or an objective description (third-person; formal, businesslike). Also consider your audience.
(1) How much do they already know about your subject?
(2) What background information may they need?
(3) Will you have to define any unfamiliar terms?
Summarise your planning.
Consider specific details. (1) sensory: appeal to sight, sound, taste, touch, smell; (2) factual: can be measured or checked;
(3) figures of speech: simile, metaphor, personification.
Organise your details to make sense. (1) spatial order: arranging details the way you see them;
(2) order of importance: putting the most important details either first or last; and
(3) order of impression: starting with the most prominent detail and moving on to other details in the order that they impress you.
Something to Do
1. Try catching your audience by starting your essay with a startling detail. Make your focus clear and set the tone by the end of your first paragraph.
2. Write without stopping but bear in mind the following criteria to evaluate your details. Remember sensory, factual, and your detail’s contribution to a single overall impression.
3. Set writing aside for some desired time then, with fresh eyes, evaluate and revise.
Look at your choice of words (diction), vivid parts of speech; cross out vague, nondescriptive words; examine your figures of speech clichés, overworked expressions; also examine connotations, etc.
4. Read last week’s descriptive passage to refresh your mind about what good descriptive writing looks and feels like.
5. Let someone of knowledge and interest read and give feedback. Remember not to keep finished products to yourself. Practice makes good writers.
“It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.”
quotes
BEING a dentist for 17 years convinces me that it is likely that Christmas is the worst time of the year for Government dental practitioners. I say this because during this festive season there will be a ten percent increase in caries among the population. GuySuCo officials can attest to the additional amount of sugar that is usually sold during December.
Certainly, this sugar is destined to be the cause of the excruciating pain of acute toothache that will attack hundreds of persons during this time. The situation is made worse due to the general lapse in maintaining oral hygiene concomitant with the disruption in routine personal activities.
Cakes, candies (sweets), jellies, chocolates, and dried fruits are among the most carcinogenic (decay-causing)
The proverbial sweet tooth of human beings has resulted in tooth decay being the most common disease apart from the common cold. Christmas is a time when this sweet tooth
becomes evident.
Best wishes for the Season and may your Holidays be free from toothache!
foods in existence. At Christmas, they are consumed indiscriminately. Despite what you may believe, there is a direct relationship between oral health and the food composition.
Tooth decay is an ongoing process. The process begins with plaque, a sticky, colourless layer of harmful bacteria that is certainly forming in your mouth.
Certain bacteria found in plaque use the sugars you eat (especially ordinary table sugar) to form acids. Plaque holds these acids against the tooth surface. Each time acid is produced, that is, every time you eat, it attacks the tooth enamel for about 20 minutes. After repeated acid attacks, the enamel is broken down and becomes decayed. A cavity is formed.
Decay eventually progresses toward the centre of the tooth. If the decay is not treated and it reaches the pulp (nerve), an abscess forms at the root end. When this happens, the tooth becomes painful. At this point, root canal treatment (endodontic) treatment is indicated. Without treatment, the tooth will have to be extracted.
How do you know if you already have dental cavities? If your answer is yes to the following questions, then chances are you do.
1. Is a tooth sensitive to heat, cold or sweet?
2. Is it painful when you chew?
3. Is the swelling or drainage at or below the gum line?
4. Are there any brown or darker spots on the tooth?
5. Do you have persistent pain in your mouth or the sinus region?
If any of these signs are present, see a dentist without delay. A dental examination will determine whether you have caries and what must be done to repair the damage. If decay is present, dental treatment is the only way to keep it from robbing you of a tooth.
In China, the most populated country in the world, tooth decay is the least prevalent because each Chinese consumes less than five pounds of sugar every year. On the other hand, in Australia, Cuba, Great Britain, and the USA, each citizen utilizes over 100 pounds of sugar each year. About 30 percent consist of sweets of which 80 percent are flavored with chocolate. As a matter of fact, there are more than 40,000 sweet-making machines in the US alone.
