Guyana_Chronicle_Pepperpot_26_06_2022

A day in Plegt Anker Village Plegt Anker is a small countryside village located in East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne). The village is also called Heidelburg and was a Dutch-owned plantation of cocoa, sugar cane and coffee. Located 18 miles down a long road from New Amsterdam, residents say life in this small village is peaceful. In this photo, residents are seen paddling along a drainage canal located in the community (Delano Williams photo)

Sunday, June 26, 2022

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

Drug Demand Reduction Unit working ‘tirelessly’

AS the world today (July 26) observes International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, local authorities are paying increased attention to emerging and trending drugs that people are opting for over the traditional ones like alcohol, tobacco and marijuana, to name a few.

Most troubling to them, though, are the mental health effects of indulging in substance abuse.

The Ministry of Health’s Drug Demand Reduction Unit, located on Quamina Street, in Georgetown, is using the opportunity on ‘World Drug Day’, under the theme, “Addressing Drug Challenges in Health and Humanitarian Crisis”, to promote awareness of the dire situation that exists locally, and to help current sufferers and those who would have recovered but need help maintaining their stance.

--to address increasing use of synthetic drugs

Drug Demand Reduction Unit, Project Director, Dr. Travis Freeman

In 1987, the United Nations General Assembly made an ambitious and bold step to designate June 26 as the day when the world turns attention towards raising awareness of the global drug problem.

National Drug Treatment

Master Trainer Mr. Wayne Hunte believes that drug use disorder is a resulting condition which is a progressive brain disease with biological, psychological and social consequences. “Treatment of this disorder must, therefore, take a multi-dimensional From left are: Project Director Dr. Travis Freeman, Drug Prevention Officer Avril Brand, and National Drug Treatment Master Trainer Wayne Hunte

approach requiring a trained and competent workforce,” he said in a comment to Pepperpot Magazine.

The Unit that Hunte is a part of is led by Project Director Dr. Travis Freeman,

with Ms. Avril Brand as Drug Prevention Officer. The trio develops programmes, policies, and services to reduce the incidences or the prevalence of people using drugs.

“This Unit **tries to re-

duce the demand for psychoactive substances, which are any substances or drugs used to change one’s perception, behaviour, or attitude. These drugs would include tobacco, alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, along with synthetic drugs that are trending now such as Methamphetamine, ecstasy, etc.” Dr. Freeman told this publication in an interview recently.

Over the years, the Unit has been working primarily in prevention and has created a lot of material geared towards drug education, even dating back to the years you’d see the slogan “Say no to Drugs” on exercise books. Even as it continues with mass media campaigns, the Unit is now coupling the prevention aspect of its work with advancing its treatment and rehabilitation programme.

This may very well result in the training of two internationally certified batches of drug treatment specialists before the end of the year. “This will build the workforce that deals with persons affected with substance use disorder.

We’re supporting both the adult and juvenile drug courts which are promoting alternaSEE PAGE V

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

‘We Are Gutsy’

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Focusing on building character development, assisting children practically

OVERSEAS-based Guyanese Janice Hall left Guyana many moons ago but never for a second forgot about her country and its people. “I’m Guyanese at heart,” she says. Determined to make a difference in the lives of children here, she finally found the right time, four years ago, to pursue We Are GUTSY Inc., a

zine a few days ago. She’s currently on a visit to Guyana to distribute tablets to children in various schools and to launch a website with resource materials that cater not only to children, but to their parents and teachers as well.

Hall, who is from Albouystown and then later Alberttown, recognised that even as her parents did the

Directors and Educators of We Are GUTSY, Inc. From left are: Neil Bacchus, Janice Hall, Carla Meertens, Lourdeth Ferguson, Deanna Butters and Burnell Mingo

Not-for-Profit Organisation registered in New Jersey, USA. “I really feel that if someone can assist, they should,” Hall told Pepperpot Maga-

best for her as a child, other well-meaning individuals also helped to shape her character. In fact, without such persons, she feels that life would have been very differ-

From Left: Head Teacher Dawn Collins, Janice Hall, Carlette Morrison, Temeaka Joseph, Larenza Hernandez, Renate Perry discussing teaching character development skills at Stella Maris Primary

ent for her today.

“It’s always at the back of my mind that there are a number of children who may never have the opportunity to be nurtured into responsible adults. I’ve made mistakes in life and I have always been able to pull myself out of it, but for those children who don’t have the opportunity, I would like to help them in some way,” she shared.

Even as her organisation heavily focuses on building character development, it seeks to help children in practical ways. In one of its most recent initiatives, a fund-raising activity was organised in which it managed to raise US$10,000 that Hall said they used to purchase the tablets. She has so far identified six schools to benefit from the initiative and is seeking to go through the Ministry of Education to further her initiatives.

The website, to be launched tomorrow (July 27), will serve as the central platform for the educators involved with We Are GUTSY, and will be called The GUTSY Backyard. The educators will have a place where they can feel free to interact with one another, as well as the GUTSY Trainers, in sharing their successes and challenges, offering solutions, and developing creative ideas to integrate into their professional practice.

Here, they will have access to a variety of supports built into the website that will constantly be growing.

Explaining more about the initiative, she said: “We have developed a website which the students in the schools, their parents and

Founder of We Are Gutsy Inc., Janice Hall

Ms Hall found the right time to register ‘We are Gutsy’ back in 2018

An event to raise funds for purchase of the tablets

teachers will be able to access resource materials. We hope to engage the families in the

seeks to transform lives and strengthen communities by improving civility through character development and ethical leadership.

Apart from Hall, the founder and President of the Board of Directors, the team comprises directors and trainers who develop curricula for children and caregivers, including educators and parents in Guyana. It includes Dr Dana Mason, Lead Trainer; Dr Aileen Castro, Trainer; Dr Trevin London, Trainer; Renate Perry, Trainer (Grade 5 teacher, Stella Maris Guyana); Larenza Hernandez, Trainer (lecturer, CPCE & Preparatory level teacher, Stella Maris Guyana); Dr. Rose October, Trainer/Social Worker; Dr Mylissa Bauman, Adviser Curriculum Development; and Dr Ruth Cum-

programme. In July, we start virtually with the teachers and parents, and then we return in August with train-

ers, who are highly qualified teachers. We hope to engage as many schools as possible.”

Hall, a realtor, volunteers her time and efforts along with a Board of Directors; all funds raised go towards their mission in Guyana. “We are self-funded, meaning that we are volunteers; this is our labour of love. But we’re hoping other organisations will join us so we can do even more.”

Committed to contributing to the improvement of the life trajectories and outcomes for children living in Guyana, We Are GUTSY, Inc. is an official member of the Character Counts Coalition housed at Drake University, Iowa - a global initiative that

mings, Adviser, Curriculum Development.

We Are GUTSY implemented a summer programme in Guyana during August 2019 in collaboration with educators, social workers, caregivers, and volunteers with a focus on youths. Since then, the team has utilised every opportunity to engage virtually with its audiences in Guyana, including over 100 teachers in Region Four in a two-day workshop.

The team seeks to align with the Education Ministry’s Education Sector Plan 2021-2025, to enhance tolerance and modernise the education system.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

Guyana’s first Online Health App augurs well for health sector

THE issue of health is, of course, a major concern to all Guyanese, but more importantly, its accessibility is of prime importance.

In May this year, a group of medical practitioners led

by Dr Kofi Dalrymple, a Guyana-born physician, launched the Telehealth Organisation App-the first of its kind- which is aimed at ensuring easy accessibility to health providers countrywide.

The Pepperpot Magazine sat down with Dr Dalrymple as he shared his perspective and impression of the venture.

“Our company is focused on increasing access to care.

We want people to be able to access health care, regardless of where they are…In this country, access to care can be a challenge. If you live in certain areas, access to get to a doctor can also be very challenging if you don’t feel

Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony

like you want to leave your home and go to an emergency room of a hospital, particularly during COVID. A lot of people prefer to stay

home,”Dalrymple told the Pepperpot Magazine.

He stressed that his company plays a vital part in establishing that connection

Dr Kofi and team

Rhonda Lee Dalrymple

with people to healthcare providers from any mobile device or computer connected to the internet.

He explained that momentum is now picking up since the app was recently launched.

“We have seen a number of patients lined up and we have seen a number of doctors signed up as well on the app already. It therefore means that if they get sick and they need the services, they are ready to jump on the app and use the services,” Dr Dalrymple added during his interview.

The Guyanese physician made the point that almost everyone uses social media platforms to shop and do business.Therefore, something as vital as healthcare should also be accessible via your phone.

He also noted that the application covers various health services; physiotherapy, psychological health services and a whole lot more.

In acknowledging the Government of Guyana’s commitment to such services being offered in Guyana, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony lauded the initiative.

“On behalf of His Excellency and the Government of Guyana, I would like to extend congratulations to the team at On Call on the launching of their Telehealth Application. We look forward to working with you as we improve health care delivery in Guyana,” Minister Anthony told the gathering at the App’s official launch on May 29.

Dr Dalrymple could not help but stress the importance and the focal point of the

health application, noting that his company is in the planning stage and is focusing primarily on making a wide range of services available to the Guyanese community.

“The other major aspect of this is to [ensure] that people can get an electronic prescription. A doctor can write a prescription online, submit to the application and it goes directly to a pharmacy, and the patient can go and get what they need for their illness,” Dr Dalrymple noted during his interview.

Those who do not have access to a mobile device can potentially still access the services, he added.

“We are working with the Guyana Telephone Telegraph Company (GTT) to establish a zero-rated service. That simply means that if you do not have access to a data service or Wi-Fi connection, you can still access the application by simply just going directly to the application. This is similar to if one does not have credit in his phone, but can still access emergency services such as 911 or 912 or GTT customer services,” the Guyanese physician added during his interview.

Dr Dalrymple expressed his gratitude to President Irfaan Ali and the Honourable Dr Frank Anthony for their support in making the initiative possible. He explained that his company is increasing access to care in Guyana and urged Guyanese to join their mission and use the Health First App: app. haealthfirst.gy.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

Pioneers who brought Taste of Guyana to Canada…

Hundreds bid farewell to Lynette Sue-Kam-Ling

HUNDREDS turned out at the Highland Funeral Home in Markham, Ontario, Canada last Monday to pay their final respects to Lynette Sue-Kam-Ling, who, along with her late husband, Norman Augustus have left a rich legacy behind; one that their children and other relatives will do well to emulate.

The late Sues were seen as pioneers who brought a taste of Guyana to Canada with the production of salara,

mithai, beef patties, cheese rolls, pine tarts, plait bread, tennis rolls and other foods that reminded them of home.

Glowing tributes were the order of the day as the children, grandchildren and other relatives recalled the role Lynette played in the success of the popular Norman Sue Bakery, and also in the moulding of her family.

Lynette, who died on Saturday, June 11, turned 71 on March 31 last.

A Condolence Motion,

which was moved by Toronto’s Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson, and seconded by Mayor John Tory said the members of the Toronto City Council were saddened to learn of the passing of Lynette Kim-Sue-Lam. According to the Motion, “Lynette was also a significant force for good in the community. She helped recent immigrants to integrate into their new environment, and offered

The five children: From left are: Nadia, Natasha, Norman Jnr, Norma (Kim), and Nashenka

brochure and was titled, “Letters to Grandma”, showcased the love they (the grandchildren) had for their dearly departed grandmother.

Tributes were also paid by the five children (Kim, Natasha, Nadia, Nashenka and Norman Jnr.,) while Kim, the eldest of the five, rendered a solo, The Way We Were, made popular by Barbara Streisand.

Monday’s officiating priest was Father Raymond So, while GuyaThe late Lynette Sue-Kam- nese Martin James provided musical renditions, Ling among them hymns that Lynette treasured. some of them jobs. She also Following the moving supported many charities, including community or- service, was the entombganisations such as Guyana ment, at Memorial GarChristian Charities, The Ca- dens, North York, Ontario, ribbean Children’s Founda- while a reception was held tion, and Lions International, at Queens Banquet Hall, in Scarborough. among others.

Norman Sue Bakery still “The members of Toronto City Council request that stands as a beacon among the City Clerk convey to the many Guyanese business Lynette’s family our deepest enterprises in Toronto, and sympathy on her passing, and during a previous interview, our enduring gratitude for her daughters Kim and Natasha, contributions to her commu- who took over the reins when their father died, pointed out nity and our city.”

A special page, which that not only has their busiformed part of the funeral ness become a legacy, but so

has the name, Norman Sue. “It’s not only a name; it’s a home, it’s a community.

It’s not only Guyanese, not only West Indian, it’s international.

“We grew up in the business,” said Kim, the eldest sibling. She remembered her father as a man who touched many lives, cared less about material things, and one’s colour or religion didn’t matter to him.”

Lynette, who hails from the Pomeroon, was also a tower of strength in the business, before and after the passing of her husband.

The business started in 1976, a few years after the family migrated to Canada, and is currently situated on Ellesmere Road, near Midland Avenue, Scarborough.

Norman Augustus SueKam-Ling was born in 1947 in Georgetown, Guyana, to a father born in China, and a mother whose parents had emigrated from India.

The late Sue, who died at age 66, lived in Georgetown and Linden, Upper Demerara, before migrating to Canada in 1971.

Drug Demand Reduction...

FROM PAGE II tives to sentencing, and we intend to strengthen these institutions working with us,” Dr. Freeman shared.

With roughly 120 persons receiving rehabilitative services annually following drug use, he said the Unit has been working tirelessly to address the increasing use of synthetic drugs over the traditional ones, and also the fact that they are being used

among adolescents and the young adult population.

“Seldom would you find a person begins to use drugs at age 40; it takes place in their teens and pre-teen years, so we feel that if we were to address those two target populations and prevent them from even starting to use, we will be able to lower the incidents of people misusing the substances,” Dr. Freeman offered.

Mental Health Issues Dr. Freeman noted that substance misuse can lead to substance use disorder or mental health issues. “Studies would have shown that seven out of 10 persons, once you would have misused a substance in your younger years, you would develop a mental health issue as an adult. And these issues can include depression, anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis, etc.”

The Unit wants to target at least 20 schools per year

An educational session being conducted by National Drug Treatment Master Trainer Wayne Hunte

The intention, he said, is for these substances not to become social norms, as has already happened in the case of alcohol. “Every social event or activity there is alcohol being served; it could even be a christening or a baby’s birthday and there would be alcohol served for the adults.”

The Unit wants to target at least 20 schools a year, both in the private and public system, in its bid to help youngsters decide against the path of substance use.

It works along closely with key stakeholders like the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) under the Ministry of Home Affairs,

Ministry of Education, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, and Non-Governmental Organisations like Salvation Army, Phoenix Recovery Project and Life Reform. Their international partners include UNICEF, PAHO/WHO, and CICAD/ OAS.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

The locals of the ‘sleepy village’ of Plegt Anker depend heavily on farming to earn

LAST week the Pepperpot Magazine journeyed over land to visit the small countryside village of Plegt Anker, East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne) to highlight the way of life of the locals.

Plegt Anker is an agriculture-based village and almost everyone is a farmer, as farming is the main source of income.

Plegt Anker is 18 miles from New Amsterdam, and it is located between Zorg en Vlyt and Johannesburg villages.

Plegt Anker is also called Heidelburg. It was a plantation that had crops of cocoa, sugar cane and coffee and it was owned by the Dutch.

That plantation was transformed when a health centre was added in 2019 and a building was constructed to house learners of the nursery and primary levels.

Plegt Anker Village also has a mandir, a ball field, two churches, a shallow well which has a pipe that is utilised by the people to full drinking water and three small shops.

The locals depend on rainfall for drinking and cooking,

or they would buy bottled water from New Amsterdam.

The village is developing.

However, there is no potable water supply, no electricity, landline phones and just the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub at the health centre.

The cell phone networks are not reliable and the main access road needs upgrading.

There are about 16 houses in Plegt Anker Village with just about 150 residents.

There is no secondary school. The nearest secondary school is in New Amsterdam.

The sluice in the village

considering the state of the road.

Cows grazing in Plegt Anker Village

There is no minibus service plying this route and to hire a vehicle is very costly

Some of the villagers have their own vehicles while others have to take public trans-

Ready, set, go – residents of Plegt Anker Village paddling in the canal (Delano Williams)

portation by way of hiring a car or canter to take out their produce.

The locals, most of whom lived all their lives in the village, are mostly cash crop farmers who rear cows, sheep, chickens, goats and creole fowls.

Plegt Anker Village is home of high-quality, sweet pumpkins that are produced on a large scale.

The people of this village also produce potatoes, ground provisions, plantains, bananas, coconuts, watermelons, tomatoes, peppers, boulanger, pak choi, calaloo, citrus, and bora among other crops.

The backlands area in this village is used for cultivation and it is quite vast, which is ideal for the locals, whose main source of income is farming.

There are no strangers in Plegt Anker Village, East Bank Berbice, so visitors are spotted immediately and it is a very safe village.

Plegt Anker Village is a breezy place with lots of wide-open spaces, and vast farmlands that go as far as the eye can see, and it also has a forested section that is uninhabited.

A drainage canal separates the two sides of this community where there is one main access road that takes you to the last village, Jermina.

The locals depend heavily on farming to earn and even the women are also involved in large-scale farming and would sell their produce at the New Amsterdam Market, 18 miles away.

The villagers are simple, hardworking folk that toil from dusk to dawn and they hardly ever have a day-off or time to engage in social activities.

The villagers are of the opinion that if the main access road is upgraded, they will be able to foster development since it is the only way to travel in that section of the country.

The locals believe that a good road will enable a ‘farm to table’ method and they will be able to transport their produce in good time to the market to sell.

The drainage canal in Plegt Anker Village

A section of the asphalted main access road

The Plegt Anker Primary/ Nursery School

The small village mandir

The deplorable section of the main access road

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

Eking out a living in Plegt Anker Village

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Azad Mohamed tending to the sluice

By Michel Outridge RAMLALL Rajmonie is a native of Plegt Anker Village, East Bank Berbice and he is a farmer who also has a small shop in the community.

Rajmonie related that he used to rear cows, but he got rid of them and was only farming these days.

He reported that the last flood, earlier this year, caused his crops to perish in flood waters and the heavy rainfall

Mohamed told the Pepperpot Magazine that he has a kitchen garden, and he would hardly have to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, which saves him a lot.

He has the yard space to do some farming, and he

Home/shop of Ramlall Rajmonie (Delano Williams photos)

Home and yard of Azad Mohamed

The 60-year-old has lived all his life in the village and he grew up at a house across the road from where he currently resides.

When he was of age, he married, built his own house, and raised his two children right in that house.

Rajmonie reported that he had just reached home after shopping for essentials for the shop in New Amsterdam and he would make that trip on Mondays and Fridays every week to stock the shelves.

He has one of three small shops in the village, and he provides a reliable service.

The father of two cultivates crops in three locations and he would sell his produce at New Amsterdam Market whenever he has a harvest.

was also taking a toll on his farm.

“Despite the challenges of living so far away, at least this village is quiet and I like it here,” he said.

He is, however, hopeful that they will soon benefit from an upgraded road and the basic infrastructure to enhance their lives.

Azad Mohamed, the sluice operator Azad Mohamed lives at the edge of Plegt Anker Village, near the koker and he has been the sluice attendant for the past 21 years.

Not having to travel for work was good for this father of five, whose children are all school-aged.

would plant cash crops during the day and keep an eye on the tide and rainfall to ensure the sluice was opened and closed when it should.

The 42-year-old added that his wife was ill and was a stay-at-home mom, and he would do many things in and around the home to assist.

He has a well-kept yard with lovely flowers and plants, which light up the environment with many bright colours, and his farm was purely organic.

Mohamed has been living in the village since he was 19 years old and he was one of three residents in the community of Zorg en Vlyt.

His neighbours are far off but it is a very peaceful place to reside.

Mohamed has made his surroundings clean and comfortable and even constructed a swing and a table with a chair under a tree outside his home for his children to play and have a relaxation spot.

“I like living here even though we have a lot of hardships but it is home for me and the best part is I do not have to pay any transportation to go to work. My job is attending to the sluice and it is just outside my house, a stone throw

away,” he said.

The sluice operator stated that his only challenge is when it rains and the tide is high, the doors of the sluice become heavy and it is difficult to roll up manually, but he would get assistance from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

Mohamed reported that life in that village was slow and it is a sleepy village.

Though his house was the only one in that part of the

community, he did not mind at all since it was quite safe.

He would get around on his motorcycle, the fastest mode of transportation in the village due to the deplorable condition of the main access road, the only way to get in and out of the community.

Mohamed reported that there was no public transportation system in that village and hiring a taxi was very costly.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

The farmers of Plegt Anker Village are doing their utmost to produce

By Michel Outridge BUDRAM Tambarin is a resident of Plegt Anker Village, East Bank Berbice. He is a simple man who is a ‘jack of all trades’: a farmer, a mechanic and even a handyman around the house doing what needs to be done daily.

T h e 5 2 - y e a r- o l d doesn’t complain and is contented with life as is. Being a farmer is hard work, but he doesn’t mind because he is self-employed and can work at his own convenience.

That day when the team visited the village, Tambarin was in the process of fixing a motorcycle, a task he was familiar with.

“If I can fix my vehicle or motorcycle, I will do it, but if it is something I cannot handle, only then I take it to the workshop for the specialised mechanic to do the job,” he said.

He has been a resident of Plegt Anker Village for the past 20 years. He relocated from a small village along that road so his children could go to a nearby school within

Home of Bahakan Abraham

Budram Tambarin fixing his motorcycle at his home

Budram Tambarin (Delano Williams)

walking distance.

“I had a house a few villages away, but the distance for my children to go to school was very far and I wanted them to benefit from an education, so I had to move closer to a school. I left that house, a sibling is there renting it, and he is also a farmer,” he said.

Tambarin stated that life in that part of the country was not very bright but fair as a farmer, who is a father of four

and grandfather of one.

He added that his wife was also a farmer, and she had her own cultivation aback of their house while he did his farming elsewhere.

With the children grown, he has the time to do many things and he takes his time in whatever he has to do to earn.

Tambarin told the Pepperpot Magazine that the rain was too much for his crops, and he was presently operating at a

loss due to the flooding of the farmlands, but he was trying to cope with what was left.

He was, however, pleased with the government’s cash grant, which will enable him to re-start his farm, and he was promised some chickens which he will rear to make a living.

The farmer added that he would journey to New Amsterdam market to sell his produce, and he was cultivating 50 acres of ground provisions, plantains and bananas.

His wife has her farm of three acres cultivating cash crops and citrus.

“I like this village, but we need the basic things such as potable water, electricity and landlines plus a better road.

With these things will improve for us living here because we have to leave this village and

go to New Amsterdam to buy drinking water, that is, 18 miles away and you see the condition of this access road, the only way in and out,’ he said.

Bahakan Abraham, the elderly farmer Bahakan Abraham is 69 years old and he is still going strong as a farmer and a family-oriented man.

Abraham told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is originally from Good Faith, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, his mom’s village, but they relocated when his father acquired farmlands in Plegt Anker Village, East Bank Berbice.

He came to Plegt Anker Village as a nine-day-old baby and has been living there ever since, a place he likes very much since all his 10 children were born there.

Abraham disclosed that on May 13 this year, he celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary and it was a good time for himself and his wife, Lillie Sanicharie, who is very supportive of him.

The elder is also a farmer and has crops of ground provisions, pine, plantains and bananas in the backlands of the village.

Abraham stated that his parents have since moved away, and three of his five siblings also died. He explained that his only sister was shot and killed years ago, leaving behind four children.

He is the grandfather of 48 and great grandfather of 15, and of his 10 children, one has since passed away.

Abraham said he was very happy because he is surrounded by his children and their families.

Bahakan Abraham

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

From nothing to something

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The story of a successful farmer

By Michel Outridge TOTARAM Tamby had very little to nothing when he started out life on his own and today, he is a successful farmer with his own house and farm, earning at his own pace.

Being a farmer for more than 25 years, Tamby is a very patient man who is versed in the ‘know-how’ of farming and his main crop is pumpkins.

“I started out life with nothing when I got married, then I built a little camp with pieces of wood and zinc and lived until I could do better,” he said.

Tamby added that his father passed away when he was a boy and he is a native of Plegt Anker Village, a place he has lived all his life and feels comfortable; so much so he will not relocate.

“Farming is the only thing I know about since I small. I grew up in that line of work, so it is ingrained in me and I am making a living farming, a humble type of work that requires patience and knowledge,” he said.

Tamby stated that when he got married, he wasn’t successful and made a lot of sacrifices to give his family a better life of comfort.

He had a small shack-like camp, which was probably 10 by 16 feet in size and after the birth of his first child, he knew he could no longer live in such a place.

Tamby saved up and built a modest house and his children had their own bedrooms and life began to look much better after he upgraded to a bigger house.

The farmer related that when his children were at school,

The home of Totaram Tamby

Totaram Tamby displaying the pumpkins he harvested recently Delano Williams photos)

he and his wife used mattock and planted bora which he sold and managed to save $80,000.

The money he used to buy a lawnmower and expand his farm to pumpkins. He then began sending his spouse to the city to do the shopping, while he concentrated on cultivating the land.

Tamby explained that he changed his life a lot after he realised his children were growing up and he needed to become a good role model, so they could pattern themselves after the lessons he taught them.

He quit drinking and staying out late with friends and became an ideal father and it was a good decision, he explained.

“I prefer to live off the land, plant, sell the produce and whatever I don’t sell I can eat, so this way I can never go hungry,” he said.

Tamby reported that he gets worried only when his kitchen doesn’t have salt, rice and other essentials for cooking.

Today, Tamby and his sons do the farming while his wife goes to the New Amsterdam Market to sell the produce.

Tamby disclosed that he cannot read nor write well, because he did not go far in school and exited the school system quite young because of poverty. He admitted that he uses commonsense to calculate his money earned from farming.

The 54-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he has seven acres of citrus and cash crops and he would sell

his pumpkins to wholesale buyers, who export the pumpkins, which are of high quality and would last an entire month after harvesting.

Tamby related that neighbours are supposed to be your closest family and he would try to be cordial, but isn’t a very social person because he would rather spend his time on the farm tending to crops.

His sibling lives next door and other family members also reside in the community.

The father of three added that his sons have their own farmlands and crops, but often they would assist him on his farm, and only when he has a good harvest he would employ one or two men from the village.

“My best friend is my cutlass, because when you achieve things, it doesn’t sit well with some people, so for less trouble I would keep my distance and mind my own business. Hardly anyone would come and sit and talk with you when you get certain things and you don’t mix up a lot,” he said.

Tamby told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is, however, grateful for the cash grant of $100,000, which was given by the current administration.

In the last flood, which happened earlier this year, he was affected and lost crops, but was able to re-plant to earn.

Even though he used to rear cows, he had to do away with them because it was becoming a problem for his neighbours.

The only thing is, he misses the fresh cow’s milk but is coping.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

The Plegt Anker Health Centre and Primary/Nursery School Fulfilling their mandates to society

By Michel Outridge THE April 3, 2019, opening of the Plegt Anker Health Centre at Plegt Anker Village, East Bank Berbice, it saves the locals a lot for healthcare.

Community Health Worker Sarita Mohan told the Pepperpot Magazine that some of the services offered include maternal and child health; dressings; family planning; home visits; chronic diseases clinics and a general outpatient service.

some more from the nearby villages.

The most cases they have are from farming accidents, seasonal illnesses, hypertension and diabetes.

“I grew up here and saw the need for a health centre because being this far away from New Amsterdam I knew how challenging it was to get out there for medical attention, so I wanted to serve the community and ensure people get the services they need to preserve good health,” she said.

Inside the Resource Room at Plegt Anker School

The Plegt Anker Health Centre provides free healthcare on weekdays to the people of this village as well as the surrounding villages.

Mohan stated that being a small farming village, they see about 140 patients from Plegt Anker itself and

Plegt Anker Health Centre has four staffers: a community health worker, a clinic attendant, a nursing assistant and a visiting doctor who is there on Mondays.

Before the $14 million Plegt Anker Health Centre was commissioned, the

Nurse Sarita Mohan with a patient

Headteacher Oshelle Welch

nearest health facility was at Brothers Village, miles away.

Plegt Anker Health Centre has a shed with a waiting area, a triage section, the doctor’s room, dressing room, washroom facilities, the nurses’ room and a children-friendly area.

It is a well-kept, clean facility that provides a reliable service to the community, and it is conveniently located next door to the Nursery and Primary School.

The Plegt Anker Health Centre is outfitted with an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub and the village locals would visit to use the internet daily.

The medical professionals at Plegt Anker Health Centre have good relations with the

Plegt Anker Primary/ Nursery School

villagers, so the atmosphere is relaxed and pleasing.

The Plegt Anker Health Centre (Delano Williams photos)

The Plegt Nursery/ Primary School Just next door is the Primary/Nursery School building, a neat environment and clean building with a playground.

The headteacher at the school is Oshelle Welch, who has been a teacher for the past 22 years, and she hails from Glasgow Village, also on the East Bank of Berbice.

For Welch, the commute is tiring, considering the state of the road, but she does it anyway because she loves the humble profession of teaching.

She was promoted to headteacher in 2014, and she aims to equip learners with basic knowledge in preparation for secondary school.

Education course subjects are taught at the public school, which houses both the nursery and primary school by the teachers, some of whom are

from Plegt Anker Village.

The mother of three told the Pepperpot Magazine that the school has a resource room that both learners and villagers utilise, and they have a good rapport with both the locals and parents.

The senior educator related that it is indeed a privilege to serve the community, and she is there to ensure that all learners realise their full potential.

She stated that learners and their parents can access the Resource Room at the school for social activities in celebration of national holidays and other school-related gatherings.

The resource room is equipped with books and other learning materials, but lacks an internet-ready computer for research and other education-related use.

Welch told the Pepperpot Magazine that with the health centre next door they have access to the facility in the event of any medical emergencies, and that is a good thing.

“I like the quietness of the village, the people are cooperative and neighbourly, and it is a very safe place to work because the locals are very hardworking, simple, down-to-earth folk, who are committed to their daily activities of farming and do not waste time,” she said.

The Plegt Anker Nursery School has on its roll 12 pupils, while at the primary level, they have 31 pupils enrolled.

The most important resource that is needed at the school is the internet and reliable electricity, which will significantly boost their capacity to engage learners.

At present, there is no internet or landline phone at the school. Electricity is sourced from a small solar panel which is insufficient.

Plegt Anker Village is a far-flung community which is located about 18 miles from New Amsterdam, and it is tucked away deep down the main access road, which is punctuated with potholes.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

Dining with Eagles

WE are celebrating the last Sunday in the first half of the year. I celebrated Father’s Day with fathers from all walks of life. ‘The Remember We Care Organization’ hosted a lovely brunch, and they invited fathers from the Holy Rosary Church and the senior homes around town.

The selection of music set the tone and the guys were singing and shaking to the music. Can you imagine the memories that were surfacing? They organised a wonderful programme that included a dance, songs and comedy by Jumbie Jones that entertained the appreciative audience. I was impressed by a spoken word piece by Donald Gunraj, who was seated at my table. The use of words and the rhythm were in sync. Donald shared his desire to publish his many poems one day, and I promised to assist him in achieving his goal.

The food was delicious and I think it was not only the ingredients but the love that was deposited from Dacia Blackmore and team. I observed how enthusiastic they were about making this day special. Keon was a pro at barbequing the chicken and I already booked him for my next barbeque. I played Bingo after 35 years and it was fun. The first guy that won was excited to have an additional hamper added to the one that everyone got.

I admire when a group of people decide to raise funds to make a difference where it is most needed.

It certainly was a weekend with lots of food, but the event I am referring to was much more than the food. Dining with Eagles was an event I hosted for the ladies who grew through

disappoint. We had a cocktail hour before dinner for the ladies to get to know each other. They met virtually during the programmes, but many were meeting in person for the first time. I love my friend Phillipa Morrish for many reasons, and one is her willingness to share her knowledge.

She dropped some valuable nuggets that the ladies appreciated.

my personal development programmes.

The eagle is my favourite bird, and I am fortunate to experience these ladies soaring to greater heights amidst the challenges. The eagle is the only bird that loves the storm. When clouds gather, the eagles get excited. The eagle uses the wings of the storm to rise and is pushed up higher. The eagle uses the pressure of the raging storm to soar over the clouds and glide.

When an eagle sees prey- even a rodent from a distance, he narrows his focus on it and sets out to get it. No matter the obstacle, the eagle will not move his focus from the prey until he grabs it. This lesson teaches us to have a vision and remain focused no matter what the obstacle is and you will succeed.

The highlight of the weekend was the training for Business Dining Etiquette. At this weekend’s event, the ladies were encouraged to dress out of their comfort zone, and they did not

Tips on etiquette I am sure you must have heard some advice to enter the room with confidence, even if you are late.

The old adage “you’ll never have a second chance to make a first impression” applies to business dining as well.

Other good lessons to remember include: Eat something before going to a business lunch or dinner. Never go hungry, or inadvertently, you may give the wrong impression. Discuss business matters before or after dining. Do not do so during the meal unless you are the guest and the host initiates such a conversation.

Never take away “doggie bags” from a business meal. You may do so at social functions, but skip the temptation even if you ate very little.

Do hold your beverage in your left hand. This prevents a cold handshake from having to move your beverage glass from your right to left hand.

Try to avoid eating and drinking at the same time, as one hand should be free for meeting and greeting. Either rest the beverage or snack on a table, but do not hold both at the same time while meeting others.

Never take anything from a platter and place it directly into your mouth; regardless of how bite-sized it might be on the platter. Take a napkin or saucer on which to place your hors d’oeuvres before eating. Do limit your reach to one or two pieces; even if it is your favourite snack.

Table etiquette The first course was soup and I shared just a few tips she shared and you will have to enSEE PAGE XXV roll in the course for the entire

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

The genetic implant of Colonialism

THE raising of a flag was considered, and believed in, by most of us, including yours truly, to mean that we were independent as a nation; that we possessed the right to pursue a path beneficial, first, to those whose birthright lies within our borders. But with time, observation, and experience, we came to realise that nation-building is far more than raising a flag, singing a new national anthem, and changing the names of a few streets.

Independence is an internal process that develops over time, and must include mental bridges built and recognised to develop the assuring awareness that we have achieved the new bridges through our own efforts.

Notwithstanding, we must also reconcile with the best, in our rational interest, of the very colonial experience. They didn’t get everything wrong, measuring the benefits, and the outweighing flaws.

There is a study that touches on the relationship between genes and culture, from individualism to social sensitivity, that cultural experiences are replicated in genes. The culture of colonisation, no doubt, did not only cultivate the necessary inferiority complexes of dependency at both an active and subconscious mental level; it ingrained a tepidness towards discussing what is not popular to be applied from within, rather than questions of curiosity and encouragement, in a discussion of pros and cons. It is quick to close doors to ideas where examples do not locally exist.

I can recall, as a teenager, hearing arguments between adults about whether we can produce ‘Salt Fish’ locally to replace the imported ‘Cod and Smoke Herring’. Independence, as a force, proceeded, and local salt fish is now here as if it were always here. But there is always a need for innovative encouragement. For example, it did take, with the cooperation of our Carnegie School of Home Economics, several editions of ‘What’s Cooking in Guyana’, and the need for income resulting from the economic loss of thousands of jobs as a result of computerisation.

Changes in merchant marine shipping and the absence of

new labour-intensive employment launched a new wave of street-food providers to the satisfy familiar tastes of hungry couples and bachelors, from mettem, cook-up with fried fish, roti and curry, soups etc.

But the struggle now lies in the ability to recognise that guilds have to be facilitated for the guidance of expertise that can create new frontiers of employment. Whatever is focused on must have a market beyond Guyana, and meet the required standards.

Some time ago, I did an article on a Campbellville resident, who I knew while working at “chilren propaty”, as The Guyana Rice Board was nicknamed.

INCREDIBLY TALENTED Daniel, (for privacy sake, I have not used his real name), is an incredible industrial designer. He was featured in the Chronicle about 40 years before, so I did it again after visiting where his father (Nature Boy) lived in Campbellville Housing

Scheme to locate him. He had another idea in the making, so I published his talent in this column, and went even further to find out from an engineer if there was a Guild or such locally that he could talk to. I was told no.

The greater problem lay in that he could not even patent his designs; this is the bigger issue. I did promise to make some further inquiries, but my own issues got in the way. I saw him recently. After he called out to me, I was doubly embarrassed that I didn’t live up to my promise, but he had a brush cutter, and, based on the demands of living, had joined this crowded service business. This was my second embarrassment and disappointment; not of his action, but instead that he had to make this choice to survive, regardless of his talents.

The classic caricature of the colonial was pointed out to me by a close adult relative. In my mind, the caricature was mad; I couldn’t define madness by any other terminology, if you behaved a certain out-of-order way. That’s how young folks interpreted things back then. None of the mental health differentiations known today was part of our vocabulary in the late sixties. The man’s nickname was ‘Walker the N*****’, and he had two smooth bricks in his hands, and a fierce look in his eyes. I was told that his rage at our becoming independent resulted in his condition. I don’t know if this was true, or if this was the only complaint he had, but he did shout, “British!

We are British people! Long live the Queen!”

I saw him later in my teenage years. He was still reminding passersby that we are “British people.” He’d lived at the Palms then. Change doesn’t come easy. Many others had and have replicas and forms of ‘Walker the N*****’ within. Because this character is no doubt multifaceted, as the character of the ‘Briga Bobby’ became the post-independence equivalent of ‘Walker’. We can only struggle to understand, through observation, and understand the contradictions, then side-step and walk the most logical path in the jungle of nations towards practical, self-serving Independence.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

How to successfully and healthily end a relationship AH, break-ups… We’ve all been there, and what fun they are! Many (if not most) of us have broken up with people, and have been broken up with. However, how many of them have been constructive, and allowed for healthy healing and resilience? Yes, there is a good way to end a relationship, even if it is not something that either partner truly wants.

When a relationship ends,

ship they wanted and put a lot of effort into maintaining is now finished.

Many people give advice on how to overcome a breakup, but how to actually do it is not often discussed. This is equally as important, as a good and healthy break-up can minimise pain and unnecessary issues. You may think that there could be no ‘good break-up’, but this is one that is done with respect, resolutions and clarity.

accordingly. For example, if they are typically emotional and need support, then a respectful break-up in private may be best. If they tend to become aggressive, and you have some fear, a public place may be better. If there is a choice, breaking up in person is always a better option to ensure the relationship is ended with dignity.

Be clear about your reasons for wanting to end the relationship, as it provides

many people hurt, including both parties’ family and mutual friends. All the more reason to do it the right way.

You may be thinking about breaking up, but wondering if it’s the right thing.

Common signs that a relationship may not be the healthiest are a lack of respect and trust, a misalignment of true values and life goals, a continuous pattern of breaking and making up and any form of abuse: Verbal, emotional, physical or sexual.

When we fall in love, we often assume it will last forever, but, sadly, these days, even when you say or sign forever, it doesn’t mean forever. Many believe that the one who initiates the break-up is cruel, or does not feel any hurt, but that’s almost never the case. The person who is broken up with usually gets more sympathy and emotional support from mutual friends.

Still, it is important to keep in mind that the one ending the relationship isn’t immune to pain; they are also dealing with the fact that a relation-

The first thing to do is to ensure that breaking up with this person is truly what you want. There is nothing crueller than being unsure, with a back-and-forth attitude, when someone else’s feelings are involved. It is important to end the relationship when you realise it is what you want.

The question of “when did you know you want this?” will come up, and it is a lot less painful to the other person, if the answer doesn’t imply that you have been wasting their time and not appreciating their efforts for a long time.

Choose the right time and place to do it. There may never be a ‘right’ time to break up with someone, but there is definitely a wrong time.

Be mindful of what else is going on in your partner’s life.

For example, did they just experience a serious loss? If so, waiting would be better.

Regarding the place, you will need to anticipate the conversation, based on the relationship and demeanour of your partner, and choose

closure for you both. Be honest, but understand that honesty does not have to equate to brutality, and every little detail. For example, if you think your partner lacks ambition, or they would not be able to give you the life you want, you can say, “I do not believe our long-term goals align.”

You do not have to devalue the other person.

Take responsibility for your decision; acknowledge that this is what you want, rather than blaming it on circumstances or your partner.

Use the word ‘I’. The breakup is your choice, based on your emotions, so acknowledge and take responsibility for it.

Do not offer false hope, or make false promises. During break-ups, too many people, in order to make it easier, say things like, “I just think its best we take some space,” or “Maybe one day we will get back together,” when they do not mean this at all. This is cruel to do, and will result in conflict later when the other party realises it isn’t true.

Don’t ask to be friends right away; this does depend on the relationship, and how long it took place, but a clean break for a while is the best option, as it allows

both parties the space to suitably move forward. Also, the truth is that if friendship was a genuine part of the relationship, it wouldn’t be hard to get back after the

appropriate space and time.

Do not give in to any protests or requests to rethink your decision; if you SEE PAGE XXIII

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

WORLD RAINFOREST DAY – THE TIME IS NOW

GUYANA is known worldwide for its almost pristine and vast rainforest cover.

These ecosystems host an equally impressive array of plants and animals, a high percentage of which can be found only here in the ‘land of many waters’. Without a doubt, our rainforests are more valuable than ever in a world plagued by the ravaging effects of climate change. Forests also provide other benefits that are not only essential to the people of Guyana but to

the world.

Other benefits of having standing tropical rainforests include: * Repository for medicinal and other scientific and cultural research; * Opportunities for eco-tourism and nature-based income generation activities; * Provision and purification of freshwater; and * Protection against drought, floods, and erosion.

Facts on Guyana’s rainforest

* Approximately 85 percent of its total land area is covered by forest (18.5 million hectares), the second-highest proportion in the world behind Suriname; * Forests in Guyana can be classified as rainforest (36 percent), montane forest (35 percent), swamp and marsh (15 percent), dry evergreen (7 percent), seasonal forest (6 percent), and mangrove forest (1 percent); * In 2012, Guyana recorded a deforestation rate of less than 1 percent; and

* Four of Guyana’s five protected areas are found in its rainforests.

World Rainforest Day Founded in 2017 by Rainforest Partnership, World Rainforest Day, celebrated annually on June 22, recognises standing, healthy forests as one of the most powerful and cost-effective climate change mitigation tools

we have – and creates a global movement to protect and restore them.

With the abundance and variety of valuable plants and animals, their importance to the global climate, and the alarming rate of forest cover loss, it is no wonder that the theme for this year is ‘The Time is Now’.

The time is now indeed for governments, corporations, and individuals to take action SEE PAGE XXIV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

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With oil boom, poverty alleviation must be key

POVERTY alleviation should be the central focus of any leader but should be of particular concern in countries where there are significant gaps in the distribution of wealth and the ability of people to meet their basic needs.

As Guyana undergoes rapid transformation, consistently recording significant economic growth, poverty alleviation should remain the country’s primary concern to curtail the widening of inequalities.

With successes in oil exploration and production offshore, and the subsequent accumulation of substantial profits, there has been a widespread perception that people’s quality of living should be improved. Part of that means alleviating poverty from at least a third (using conservative figures) of the population.

So far, the provision of various cash grants/ transfers has, perhaps, been among the more visible and tangible efforts at cushioning the exacerbated economic impact of external shocks- that is, challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and later, the Ukraine- Russia crisis. And while scores of economies around the globe struggled with those challenges, Guyana has been able to boast that rapid development in-country, largely attributed to the nascent oil and gas sector and its spinoff developments- placed it in a secure position.

There are several benefits one would expect from cash transfers- particularly when significant price hikes are gripping people’s pockets. In the first instance, people have more disposable income to supplement their spending. Additionally, research has found that such cash transfers may lead to an improvement in people’s psychological state and they can help stimulate production and trade (because with more money to spend, people may want more things).

I suppose, from the government’s point of view, providing cash grants is a wise investment because people are expected to spend that money back in the local economy. In doing so, money circulates within the economy, stimulating business activity, generating taxes and helping to meet some of the people’s needs.

A $25,000 grant, for example, might not seem like a huge amount at the household level, but when the total sum is distributed, it represents a sizable reinjection into the local economy.

Those macroeconomic considerations aside, however, I believe that such short-term measures must only complementnot overshadow or replace- more systemic efforts at poverty alleviation.

To the government’s credit, there is evidence of such efforts and plans. In agriculture, for example, single mothers are targetted for dairy production plans, and young people appear integrally involved in the ongoing youth agriculture and entrepreneurship initiative. These initiatives will help empower vulnerable groups of people, enabling them to generate income for themselves and meaningfully contribute to Guyana’s development.

There have been various efforts at offering much-needed skills training to people, be it from the Human Services, Education or Public Service Ministries. Skill improvements allow people to become gainfully employed or if taken further, create entrepreneurial ventures. Underpinning these efforts is the intention to empower people and help them take care of themselves instead of solely providing welfare support.

Undoubtedly, these efforts are great, and President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently told a gathering of members of the Guyanese diaspora in Los Angeles, California, that his focus will be directed toward people who are empowered and can gain a secured income. While that is a noble promise itself, he assured the gathering that his government has a much larger plan for poverty alleviation.

Until poverty is eradicated, I don’t think any suite of measures, projects, or programmes implemented will ever be enough. But I hope that emphasis will be placed on ensuring that the people most affected- vulnerable women, children and minority groups like our indigenous people and the LGBTQ+ community- are primary considerations.

An important need, too, at least in my opinion, is the application of data-driven monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

This could help to answer pertinent questions and strengthen interventions for the future. For example -- How did people

really benefit? How can those interventions be improved? Was there a disproportionate impact of a problem on one group of people, thereby requiring additional focus?

Guyana, perhaps now more than ever, is uniquely positioned to exploit its resources to help improve the lives of all its people-hopefully doing so without irreparably harming the

environment (but that’s another column). I hope that this oil boom is not squandered and that the large sums of cash expected will be used wisely.

If you would like to discuss this column or any of my previous writings, please feel free to contact me via email: vish14ragobeer@gmail.com

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

ANNE

SHE walked down the dusty road, the little girl who was once fair, her skin now sunburnt, her sandals worn, and a straw basket on her arm. The mid-August sun seemed hotter today than yesterday, and the turn in the road seemed further away, torture for her tired feet.

A huge almond tree, like a landmark, stood at the turn,

its sprawling branches offering some shelter from the sun and the rain.

Anne sat down wearily in the shade, kicking off her sandals and resting her feet on the soft, fallen leaves. It was where she always stopped on the days she had to go to the market.

The cherries she had taken to the market had all been sold and so it would be until the bearing season was over.

Then it would be the guavas, mangoes and genip seasons, the unending hard work, stealing from her one beautiful thing of life, childhood.

Anne closed her eyes, two tears trickling down her cheeks and she whispered, her little heart aching, “Where are you, dear brothers? Please come for me; I want to go home.”

The car crash four years ago had shattered their lives, losing their mother and father at such young ages. It hadn’t rained that night, nor was it late as they drove home but their father, always a careful driver, could not have stopped the speeding car that crashed into them. The devastating news that night was the worst three young children could have heard as they huddled together crying.

That tragedy brought a heart-breaking change in their young lives. None of their relatives wanted three additional children in their homes for too long, so they were shuttled around, a continuous disruption in their lives. So, it was no surprise when a decision was made at a family gathering to send them to an orphanage.

A beautiful little family suffering because of a tragedy caused one fateful night by a reckless driver.

The comfort of their own home, the love and care of a mother and father, they missed so much. The ache in their heart so deep, that they could cry no more.

One year had passed for the little girl before a foster home was found for her and as she left the orphanage on a gloomy afternoon, her young heart grieving, she asked herself quietly, “Where have you gone, brothers and where am I going?”

The family who had given her a home had seemed kind and caring but it wasn’t long before the little girl realised she was more of a servant than a part of the family. She was not allowed to dine with them, was not taken on outings, given hand-me-down clothing to wear and no haircare for her long, curly hair.

“I was my mother’s princess,” she cried silently, “I had pretty dresses, nice shoes and beautiful hairstyles.”

Anne missed her love and care so much, their beautiful little home, the birds in the bird bath in the garden and her pet rabbit. “ W h e r e a r e y o u , n o w, C u d d l e s ? ” s h e w o n d e r e d s a d l y, “ I s a n y o n e t a k i n g c a r e o f y o u ? ” She got up, her short rest over, and picking up her basket, she continued on her way home. She couldn’t be late, not any day.

That night, like every other night, she tumbled into bed, tired from the afternoon chores, too tired to read any of her books.

In two different foster homes, two young boys lay in bed, sleepless as their minds worried for their little sister.

“We will find you one day, Anne.”

And in a sports bar in the city, a young man sat alone, forlorn; his mind burdened with regrets.

“How do I make amends for my wrongs?”

He had been given no jail time for causing death by dangerous driving, just a fine, and had his driver’s licence suspended for six months.

But despite all his family’s money and influence, he could not free his mind from the guilt he felt on seeing the children’s tearful images on the News channels.

“How can I help them?” he had wondered.

One night in her dreams, Anne heard the most loving voice saying, “Your brothers will find you, my little princess, and you’ll be happy again, just a little more time.”

Anne awoke the following day, a smile on her face and joy in her heart. She now had something wonderful to look forward to and said nothing to anyone, just waiting for that day.

The guava season in the meanwhile began and she walked to the market with her straw basket. On the busiest day that was Saturday, she slipped a piece of paper into the bags of her customers. On the paper were sketches of her brothers with the words, “Please find my brothers.”

It was a brilliant idea from SEE PAGE XXV the little girl.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

XVII

It is a human right to seek safety- even in Guyana JUNE 20 was World Refugee Day and, according to the United Nations, “World Refugee Day is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight and to recognise their resilience in rebuilding their lives.”.

As of May 2022, over 100 million people were forcibly displaced or moved worldwide. About half of that figure are children. The UN Refugee Agency’s theme for World Refugee Day this year is, “Whoever. Wherever. Whenever. Everyone has the right to safety.” While I’m sure there were a few informational postings or information sharing surrounding refugees on said day, I certainly didn’t come across any. As such, I wanted to dedicate this week’s piece to a topic that is talked about but not talked about enough. Perhaps, the first thing that comes to mind when one hears that word is citizens of countries like Afghanistan trying to seek asylum in the United States or Canada.

Or, perhaps, the Ukrainians fleeing to nearby countries after Russia invaded their homeland.

Refugees, their issues and the call to action are far more complex than that. In fact, we don’t even need to look that far and wide to find examples of who refugees are or why they had to make the choices they did.

It is a human right to seek safety. No matter who they are, they should be able to do so without being afraid and should be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Refugees come from all over the world. They are different shades of colours, from different ethnicities and races, and they may have their own cultures and beliefs. Refugees often flee their homelands to avoid the threat of war, violence or persecution. As such, they deserve to be protected. They may also flee their homelands due to natural disasters. They deserve to feel safe —like every other human being with rights. The entire concept of this is safety. I know what most of you are thinking. You’re wondering about the many refugees or new citizens from various other countries we currently have in Guyana. You’re probably worried about who they are or if they may pose a threat to you or your loved ones. The truth is, if the shoe was on the other foot, I am sure you would want them and their country to allow you to be protected and feel safe as well.

I think we should be honoured that our country is seen as a safe haven for other human beings. While geographically, borders exist to separate countries. I think, morally, we must assess and evaluate what it means to be a country with the ability to help other human beings in need. Seeking safety in other countries means seeking asylum, seeking safe access, receiving no pushbacks or returning to their country, and they shouldn’t face any discrimination or hostility. People would not have been vulnerable in pleading to stay in an unknown land if they weren’t desperate to flee in the first place. To be a refugee is the opposite of cowardice. It is courageous and is a badge of strength.

If Guyana really is the safe haven we portray it to be— then we ought to start acting like it by first changing our misconceptions and discriminatory behaviour towards those who seek safety in our land. ‘Refugee’ is a word we use to describe the displaced. We need to understand that behind that word are faces of women, men and children running away from the one place they thought was their haven. Only then will we understand the importance of having enough compassion to allow them to share our land as their newfound haven.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 26, 2022

GNBS’ APPROVAL OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES OBLIGATORY SELLERS in the markets and shops, over the centuries, have been known to exploit consumers by giving them less than the correct weights and measurements of the goods purchased and this form of theft has been forbidden in the ethical codes of all religions.

Governments have tried by various means to control this abuse by sellers and to protect the consumers. In Guyana, this responsibility has been entrusted to the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS). The GNBS administers the Weights and Measures Act and addresses matters such as the imperial and metric systems of measurements and the accuracy of the mechanisms used for measurements. The most popular of such mechanisms are scales.

The GNBS is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the scales used by sellers are accurate and accordingly, sellers, by law, have to register their scales with the GNBS who calibrates them. Unfortunately, the GNBS, like most such enforcing bodies worldwide, does not have enough resources to ensure the consumers are protected in all circumstances. For example, a seller may have two scales, a GNBS registered one and one which is doctored to short weight the buyer.

When the GNBS inspector visits his establishment, the seller would produce the registered scale. But there are other kinds of subterfuges.

Recently, for example, the GNBS issued an advisory to vendors, shopkeepers and other retailers to discontinue their use of unregistered dial scales. These dial scales which many retailers have taken to using were designed for domestic use and their mechanisms are easily damaged from continuous and commercial usage and a damaged scale would inevitably short weight the purchaser.

In the final analysis, it should always be kept in mind that the consumer or purchaser has to make the necessary effort to ensure that he receives value for money. In the first place, purchasers should immediately examine the goods purchased and this will give him a good idea if the goods purchased are of correct weights/measures. If there is suspicion that there is a short measurement, the purchaser must challenge immediately. Or one could challenge the scale the seller is using and demand to see the GNBS’s stamp.

In the markets, if a seller has his goods at inordinately cheap prices, then it is quite likely his scales have been doctored or the goods are SEE PAGE XXIII

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GNBS’ APPROVAL OF WEIGHTS ...

FROM PAGE XVIII expired. The buyer could take his complaint directly to the GNBS since they are entrusted with the supervision of the country’s weights and measures. In the alternative, he may contact the Guyana Consumers Association, the Competition and Consumers Commission or the Consumer Division of the Ministry of Business headed by Ms Cheryl Tinnis.

Over the years, the GNBS has been urging vendors and other retailers to use the recommended metric devices and these include the metric red equal arm scales, the metric platform scales, electronic scales or the dial salter scales which have been approved by GNBS. Metric scales are a security for the future since, by law, the weights and measures of Guyana are already metric and it is only a matter of time before the law is enforced. Use of metric measurements has become imperative, not merely because they are more convenient and efficient, but because Guyana, with its oil resources, is fast-moving on to the international stage which has already gone metric.

Use of accurate metric measurements would also be insurance for the survival of vendors and retailers, since, except they could hold the trust of purchasers, customers will go to the supermarkets where the measurements are generally accurate.

It would therefore be in the long term interests of retailers and customers as well to use accurate scales stamped by GNBS.

How to successfully and ...

FROM PAGE XIII

are having a conversation about what your partner can do to improve, that’s one thing. If you have decided to end the relationship, that is another, and there is no point in delaying the inevitable.

Set clear boundaries. For example, do you want or need to stay in contact for anything? Are there mutual events that either should agree to avoid? Do you want to stop having access to their social media? When you build a life with someone and need to separate, there is typically a lot of logistics involved during the break-up. These vary, based on whether you live together or have children, but all these things need to be discussed at that time to avoid future conflict, and hurtful surprises.

Show sympathy and listen to what they have to say in return. This does not mean you change your mind, but simply shows understanding that you acknowledge that they are coming from a different place, with a different perspective that just needs to be validated. Provide any reasonable closure they may ask for.

Lastly, and most importantly for them, if you see them moving on, please let them. I see it often where someone ends the relationship, but cannot handle it when their ex-partner seems to be okay and moving on. It tends to hurt their pride, so they go back and ask to try again.

When you have completed the task of ending the relationship, take the time to invest in yourself, and identify who you are as a single person, as identities tend to get lost after being in a relationship for a long time. Only start dating other people when you are genuinely ready; do not do it to dull the pain.

If the pain is making you regret the relationship altogether, remember that relationships help us to learn. Whether short or long-lasting, relationships allow us recognise ourselves, and personal boundaries; how to patiently compromise, co-habitat, and to practise accountability to another person.

It’s hard not to see the beauty in that, even if it doesn’t end the way you had hoped.

Thank you for reading, and please continue to send suggested topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com

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WORLD RAINFOREST DAY...

FROM PAGE XIV

to reverse the trends of biodiversity loss and unsustainable use of forest resources.

Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy presents a clear pathway for harnessing payments for the services provided by forests, while low-impact mining and forestry are conducted. The Joint Agreement with the Kingdom of Norway has seen a robust Monitoring and Verification System, which over the years has shown record low deforestation rates.

Sources You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@ gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Dining with ...

training. If I am having soup, as the first course, my soup spoon would be on the right side of the table knife. If a small fork is in the soup spoon,that is an indicator that some sort of seafood cocktail would be served before the soup course.

A mild lemon sorbet might be served before the soup course if the first course is a shrimp cocktail. This is called a palate cleanser. Soup served in a two- handled cup can be drunk from the cup. Soup served in a bowl should never be lifted off the table.

These teachings can prevent you from embarrassing yourself and build your confidence. The ladies were also sharing with each how much they enjoyed applying the information immediately.

I am sure the readers found this content useful. Big thank you to Phillipa and Esan (Hardball) for capturing these invaluable life experiences. We have several programmes available for your development, and I challenge you to stop procrastinating and join us on this growth vehicle. If you WhatsApp (684-8129) between 16:00hrs on Sunday to 16:00hrs on Monday, you will only be required to pay 50 percent as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY. FROM PAGE XI

ANNE...

FROM PAGE XVI

That message on the sketch will now travel and one may find itself in the

right hands.

Three weeks later, a maid working for a wealthy family found the child’s sketch in one of her shopping bags. She went to the patio where the lady of the house was relaxing and said, “Ma’am, I think you might want to see this.”

The lady was the mother of the young man whose reckless driving had caused the death of the children’s parents.

Fate does have a way of creating new life stories.

After over a month of putting the sketch of her brothers in customers’ bags and not getting any responses from anyone, the little girl thought sadly, “Maybe no one knows them.”

As she sat there in the market pondering what next she could do, Dusty, a stray kitten curled up at her feet, she heard a familiar voice call her name, then another.

“Anne.”

She gasped and spun around, almost stepping on Dusty, her heart racing, the guavas falling from her hands. Her brothers stood there, overjoyed at seeing their little sister, who was once a fair princess in their home, now a sunburnt fruit vendor. She cried and ran to them and they held her in their arms, crying too, overwhelmed with emotion. Now, after four long years, they were seeing each other again.“I prayed every day to be with you again,” she cried. “I want to go home, to our home ”. “Yes, the three of you would be going back to your own home,” a strange lady and young man who had been standing just behind the boys said, “And you will be given the best care, education and security as you grow up.”

Anne looked at her through her tears, not quite understanding.

“Who is she?” she asked quietly.

“It’s quite a long story,” her eldest brother explained, “They caused something special to be taken from us, so they have used their influence to reunite us and will continue to assist us in life.”

“No more foster homes,” her second brother said, playfully ruffling her curly locks, “And it’s all thanks to you.”

She laughed a little, thrilled and happy that they were going back home as a little family, prayers answered. She picked up Dusty and asked, “Can I take her with me?”

“Of course,” everyone answered and Dusty meowed ‘Thanks’.

The lady looked at her son standing quietly there, tears in his eyes and she said, “This will help you to find peace within yourself as you can help them through life.

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THOUGHT FOR TODAY The rainbow comes and And lovely is the ro goes, se.

WILLIAM WORD S W ORTH (1770-1850) Ode. Intimations of Immortality (1807) ii

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June 26, 2022 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome dear friend.

Are you examination-ready?

What is one year ahead if mismanaging time will deplete returns? Study your examination adroitly to successfully sit for it. Do your

writing skills need enhancing? Yes. Is your cache of tid-bits for exciting, solid short stories chuck-full? Not certain. Can you adequately refute or defend a standpoint, coin good summaries and letters, and read comprehensively? Not confident yet.

See? Keep your competencies fortified. Acknowledge, and improve on your weaknesses. Be wise.

Love you.

THE PASSAGE The Story of a Great River From its source in the mountains between Sierra Leone and Guinea to its delta in Eastern Nigeria the mighty Niger will have travelled some 4,000 kilometres through many countries and some of the most varied scenery in the world.

From the high mountains around Futa Jallon through the dense forests of Guinea it flows, gaining in size from many tributaries. Its waters create the fertile plains of the Mali Republic before reaching the desert regions beyond Timbuktu whence it turns south-eastwards to flow between the republics of Niger and Benin.

It is here that it enters Nigeria, that great African state and, more than half its journey over, is put to work. Vast hydro-electric plants provide for the needs of Nigeria’s millions and for the industry of this huge country. Here, too, irrigation schemes, fed by its waters, assist in food production and its use, with specifically designed vessels, to facilitate travel, trade and the transport of goods. And everywhere there are fishermen casting their nets.

At Lokoja, where the Niger is joined by its greatest tributary, the Benue, it turns sharply southwards to flow majestically past Onitsha and presently to form its vast delta. This delta, hot and humid, is a place of great rain forests, mangrove swamps and a network of waterways taking the Niger at last to the sea. Here, too, and in the sea offshore, are the oil-fields which make Nigeria one of the main oil producers of the Commonwealth of Nations.

1. Where is the source of the Niger?

2. Name FOUR towns on its banks.

3. Through which countries does it pass?

4. In which country is its delta?

5. In your own words describe a delta. 6. In your own words describe a mangrove.

7. What is opposite in direction to south-east?

8. What confluence occurs at Lokoja?

9. Write short answers on the following: dense forests, gaining in size, hydro-electric plants, irrigation schemes, rain forests, network of waterways, offshore.

IMPROVING WRITING An initial look at the paragraph structure Basic definition of a paragraph is that it is a block of writing that contains three parts: 1) A beginning – the topic sentence which gives the topic and the direction or pathway the writer is taking the topic.

2) A middle - supporting details (at least three developed ones). The points that help the topic sentence to expand, explain, prove, testify; give statistics or experiences – anything that helps the reader to follow what the opening sentence is saying.

3) Concluding sentence – which can be a restatement of the topic sentence in some cases. In others it can have a natural ending (no restated first sentence).

Be informed of this: Properly constructed paragraphs make your work readable and improves your score. Good construction also makes your points stronger. Correct organisation of points helps greater reader interest. Well-tailored paragraphs are what teachers and examiners are looking for in your compositions.

Let us look at the paragraph in the above passage that begins with: “It is here that the Niger ...”

It is here that it enters Nigeria, that great African state and, more than half its journey over, is put to work. Vast hydro-electric plants provide for the needs of Nigeria’s millions and for the industry of this huge country. Here, too, irrigation schemes, fed by its waters, assist in food production and its use, with specifically designed vessels, to facilitate travel, trade and the transport of goods. And everywhere there are fishermen casting their nets.

1) What is the paragraph topic and the way it is being look at by the writer?

2) Say how the paragraph is developed. What expanded supporting ideas are used?

3) What is the concluding sentence saying? Does it introduce a new idea? Does it restate the topic sentence, or does it end naturally?

4) What can you informedly say about the paragraph’s length?

5) Can you detect the order of support? Is the writer swinging the support details any which way? How is it done?

6) Can you see how articulate or coherent the presentation is? What is meant by ‘coherent’ or ‘articulate’?

7) Do you see a complete picture of what the paragraph is about? Give a synopsis of the paragraph.

READING COMPREHENSION Paragraph meaning Directions. Read each paragraph below. Decide which of the numbered words or phrases below the paragraph is best for each blank. Look at the answer spaces at the right.

Circle the number which is the same number as the word(s) you have chosen.

In the 1830’s in the United States, a new type of daily press was born. Led by Benjamin Day’s New York Sun and James Gordon Bennett’s New York Herald, A) _____ began to publish police court and crime stories, human interest stories, and much other local news. The Herald, under B) _____ was often accused of pure sensationalism by its enemies, for it, perhaps more than other papers, emphasised C) _____ stories.

A). 1.. pamphlets 2.. magazines 3.. newspapers 4.. authors A). 1.. 2.. 3.. 4..

B). 1.. Day 2.. Bennett 3.. James Benjamin 4.. Benjamin Gordon B). 1.. 2.. 3.. 4..

C). 1.. lurid crimes 2.. human interest 3.. foreign affairs 4.. local society C). 1..

2..

3..

4..

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Check your mouth

FOR the past four consecutive years, the theme for Oral Cancer Month was “Check Your Mouth”. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, every hour, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, someone dies from oral or oropharyngeal cancer. The oropharyngeal area is located at the back of the oral cavity and upper throat.

The distressing news for inveterate smokers is that, in many respects, they are no different from cocaine or marijuana users since it has been established that this practice is not a habit as has been formerly believed but an addiction complete with the inherent physical and psychological dependence. Among numerous hazards are oral cancer, rampant caries, gingivitis, stomatitis, (infection of the lining of the mouth) and the staining of the teeth.

Statistics show that only three percent of all mouth cancers occur in persons who have never smoked. In contrast, those who chew tobacco have the highest chance of dying from the disease. The tongue is by far the most common area affected. Most often, oral cancer appears as a

chronic, painful sore or ulcer which had developed from a white patch. The deeper in the mouth it is found, the faster it may kill the victim. In other words, cancer on the soft palate is far more dangerous than one located on the lip.

The prevalence of mouth cancers increases with age, with 98 percent of cases being over 40 years old. Of particular interest is the fact that, in combination with alcohol, there is a significant increase in the incidence. In fact, recent studies indicate that even beer and wine could cause oral cancer, especially when consumed by chronic cigarette smokers.

Can oral cancer be prevented? To a great extent, yes.

Regular mouth and throat examinations can detect the condition at its earliest, most curable stage. Survival rates are around 75 percent if detected then. On the other hand, without periodic examinations and tests by your dentist, risks increase, and survival rates decrease. A diet rich in vitamins A and C, moderation or abstention from tobacco and alcohol constitute modes of prevention. Progressively decreasing the number of cigarettes smoked daily is the recommended method to eliminate the addiction.

In addition to over 300 other poisons, the smoke from the cigarette contains nicotine and condensate (tar), which deposit on the tooth’s surface, leaving a dark brown to black over some time. Because the enamel has tiny pores, the nicotine eventually penetrates into the tooth’s body, thus virtually incorporating itself into the structure of the dentin. Polishing cannot even remove it; the teeth become permanently stained.

The destabilisation of the integrity of the various tissues in the mouth due to the constantly pervading heat and

chemical-laden tobacco smoke leads to many local and systemic inflammatory conditions. The destruction of the cilia, which function by sweeping dust particles down the gullet from the nasal lining and throat, results in the chronic smoker’s cough.

Health care workers’ awareness of tobacco issues may vary from just mentioning to their patients that smoking cessation will contribute to the general state of good health

to routine offers of advice and written material on quitting the tobacco habit. More formal assistance may include delivering cessation programmes in small groups or on a one-to-one basis in a clinical setting. It is important to note that even less intensive interventions may have an important impact on public health.

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