Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-Paper 10-12-2023.pdf

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Deep South Rupununi now home to Piichillnau’s World -

‘The little people’s culinary adventure’

Rayson with his welcome cocktails at Piichillnau

Sunday, December 10, 2023

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Making sweet music and forming good partnerships Guyanese artiste passionate about returning home to collaborate

AHAMAD Ally better known as ‘Guyana Prince Ally’ is a Guyanese-born singer/songwriter and producer, who resides in Canada, but annually, he returns to his homeland to make his contribution to society and the local music industry to host shows/award ceremonies and other collaborations with local musicians.

The 63-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he has been in the music business for more than five decades and his roots are here in Guyana. He is originally from Corriverton, Berbice, and is from humble beginnings.

He is in Guyana to launch his new music compilation of Christmas songs titled “Christmas Dance Mix” as well as an EP, titled “Baker Street”, which comprises of six songs.

Ally migrated to Canada in 1984 and today, he is a businessman in Canada with his own electronics store and a recording company called Ally Talent International Production (ATIP). He related that he came from a musical family who performed in their own bands.

While holidaying in Guyana, Ally will embark on charitable events like visiting orphanages and churches as his way of giving back.

Ally told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is also hoping to collaborate with some local artistes and he is ‘scouting for new talent’.

He stated that ATIP Music Productions will be hosting an Awards Night where local artistes will be awarded for their contribution to music in February. Ally also related that they will be hosting the Annual Bob Marley tribute along with Ras Leon Saul in February as well.

Ahamad Ally displaying his latest CD

Ally is very passionate about music and it shows in the fruit of his work. He has received many awards for his outstanding contribution over the years which includes the Reggae Music

The “Christmas Dance Mix” CD

Awards, Juno Awards and the Canadian Raggae Awards. He is also notably the first Guyanese of Indian descent to have received an award in Reggae.

He will continue to make his mark in the music industry via his recording studio to record label in collaboration with other artistes locally and abroad.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Bringing the spirit of Christmas alive Kids Fest 592 to host ‘Brunch with Santa and Road Parade’

By Shaniya Harding A barrage of colourful characters like the Grinch and Mistress Clause, Santa and the unforgettable Rudolph the Reindeer are all things featured at places like Disneyland and amusement parks worldwide. But this year, Guyana will see its own kind of Disneyland in the form of the Kids Fest 592 ‘Brunch with Santa and Road Parade.” Natalya Thomas is the mind behind the Kids Fest 592 brand and the pioneer of the event ‘Brunch with Santa and Road Parade’.

Taking place on December 17 at the Promenade Gardens, Brunch with Santa and Road Parade will bring Christmas alive for Guyanese children.

Natalya has been hosting events of this nature for the past six years. This year, however, will be bigger and better with more support for

larger sponsors and a brand that has grown over time, she says.

For the road parade, Natalya drew inspiration for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

She aims to put together a similar celebration with a hint of Guyanese authenticity. “We [also] have the brunch aspect that will begin at 11:00. Apart from that we will have the handing over of gifts and photos with the Grinch and Santa happening between the 11:00 to 02:00.

There also be vendors that will be there selling also,” she explained.

One of the event’s highlights is the concert happening in the afternoon of December 17. With appearances from some of Guyana’s biggest names in music making an appearance, Brunch with Santa aims to retain most of what Guyanese children know Christmas to be.

“During the afternoon, we will have a Christmas concert

with singers such as Calvin Burnett and some up-andcoming artistes. We will have a choir, steel pan, dancers and spoken word from poetry personalities and a Christmas tree light up at the end,” Natalya stated. “We have a lot of activities planned for the event. This year we will have the Grinch as well as really big slay for the road parade and a big arch for entry,” Natalya told the Pepperpot Magazine.

Her mission of bringing a new spin on Christmas in Guyana for children came from her own childhood. “As a young girl, I always wanted to go to Disneyland or to have an experience like this,” Natalya shared. “I remember my dad taking my other siblings to Disneyland and I was not given the opportunity to go because I was not given my visa.” As a child this greatly impacted her and because of this she wanted to create something similar in Guyana. “I decided that I was going to create an event of this nature to that storybook effect just to give children that experience that many families cannot afford to,” she added.

With appearances from Georgetown’s Mayor and the sharing of countless gifts, planning an event like this was no walk in the park. Natalya

The woman behind ‘Brunch with Santa and Road Parade’ Natalya Thomas

is an event coordinator by profession, but Kids Fest is one of the events that require

An Inflatable Grinch

‘The Grinch’ will be one of the characters children could meet and interact with

the most time and planning.

“In planning I have to be able to plan and be strategic

about it.” A large part of NaSEE PAGE XVI

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Deep South Rupununi now home to Piichillnau’s World

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‘The little people’s culinary adventure’

IT’s a rather small, cottage-style house. Yet, it’d be enough to provide the sort of welcome that any nature lover can dream of. To begin with, the hosts are adorable. There’s Rayson O’Connell who just happens to love entertaining friends and meeting new folks, and then there’s his mom, Alma, who probably makes the best homemade wine in the Rupununi.

Rayson was born in Maruranau in Region Nine’s Deep South Rupununi but he was raised in Lethem and Georgetown.

Even as he eventually migrated to Canada for 15 years, he’d always come home whenever he could.

The rodeo is one thing for sure that he wouldn’t miss. “It was always my plan to come back to Guyana at some point.

It was my holiday home during school breaks,” he said in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine a few days ago.

On one of his visits, he recalls how a dear friend who came with him fell in love with the place and asked him how he could have ever thought of leaving there.

This only propelled his ideas to come back and start up something meaningful – Piichillnau’s World (Piichillnau is a Wapishan word that translates to “the little people’s culinary adventure”).

Owing to his roots in the Rupununi, Rayson was friends with many of the established tour operators in Region Nine, Overnight hammock accommodation in the farm

Rayson with his welcome cocktails at Piichillnau

and he was encouraged to set up one in the Deep South. “There was a need for a destination in this area and since I enjoy entertaining people, I decided I would set up a more food-based business, focusing on the culinary aspect of tourism,” he reflected.

Rayson realised that there was much more that he could offer instead of just food, so he designed an amazing tour with attractions that could be found in and around Maruranau. “My village is located right next to Shea, which is well known for ‘Shea Rock’, so I have incorporated this in the tour. We are also just a 10-minutes drive from the forest, so we SEE PAGE XI

Everything a nature lover wants!

Rayson and his mom, Alma

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Just in time for the festive season

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Local entrepreneur bringing her sweet treats to your tables with black cake this Christmas

By Michel Outridge KELLY De Freitas is an enterprising young woman whose baking hobby has turned into her own small business. De Freitas is the proprietor of “Bake My Day” which specialises in cakes, including delicious, traditional black cake the same kind your elders (grandmothers) made in your childhood.

The 25-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that growing up, she was the only person in her family who loved baking, and when she matured into a teenager, she began exploring the possibilities. She always surprised family members with cakes for their birth anniversaries since she was 14 years old.

The Nismes, West Coast Demerara resident reported that she loves baking and her speciality is cakes, all kinds and flavours. She explained that after high school, she worked at a cell phone business as a technician and that was not what she wanted to do for a living, so she went to work at Freshco Supermarket at Diamond, East Bank Demerara.

De Freitas added that eventually, she had had enough of working for people and decided to become a better baker. She then enrolled in afternoon classes at the Carnegie School of Home Economics.

She was successful, and after two months, she graduated as a trained baker and established her own small business from her home,

Black cake, traditional Guyanese style

making cakes for a living.

Today, De Freitas’ small business is growing, and it is her dream to open her own bakery featuring all types of cakes.

She is the supplier twice weekly at Freshco Supermarket, Diamond, East Bank Demerara, with icing cakes in two sizes and various flavours.

De Freitas bakes at her home based on orders and twice weekly to supply the supermarket on Mondays and Thursdays with 30 cakes per week.

She specialises in fruit, black cake, sponge, red

velvet, chocolate, vanilla, chocolate chip cakes and all other flavours requested by customers for any occasion.

The small business owner told the Pepperpot Magazine that all her cakes are homemade with fresh ingredients and her fruits are also homemade from carambola (five finger) which have been curing since last June.

De Freitas does not skimp on the ingredients despite the high costs of baking products since she wants to maintain a high quality of cakes produced and keep her customers even though it is not on a large scale.

Kelly DeFreitas

She stated that she does all the baking alone for now but has the help of her partner, who assists in transportation to deliver cakes based on orders.

De Freitas reported that once she has her own bakery, she would like to have at least one employee and

Some of the cakes baked by Kelly De Freitas

even if she has to train that person, she is up for the challenge.

She has been baking professionally since 2017 and wouldn’t have it any other way because she feels empowered as a small business owner.

“I feel blessed to have

a small business and doing what I love is something extraordinary. Even though it takes a lot of time, I prefer to work for myself rather than be employed with other people,” she said.

De Freitas reported that it is a busy time for her since some Christmas black cake orders are due. Along with her weekly regular order of cakes, she has her work cut out.

De Freitas told the Pepperpot Magazine that all her ingredients are wholesome, locally sourced. She would source her ingredients in bulk, which is economical given the increase in cost for baking products. She believes her prices are still pocket-friendly, considering the quality of the cakes.

She has had nothing but excellent reviews and having repeat customers speaks volumes. Apart from her regular offerings, it is safe to say her black cake is considered by her customers as one of the best.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Life in idyllic Ithaca

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The way of life, traditions, and practices that have been preserved in Ithaca THE quiet streets and peaceful homes, young men playing basketball, the welcoming neighbourhood women thrilled to talk about their community, the subtle sounds of grazing cows, and the sights of people cooking and talking by firesides.

The village of Ithaca with roots running deep into the past has retained its unique authentic and idyllic way of life.

Community values are stronger in very few places than they are in the village of Ithaca. The community embodies the ‘everybody knows everybody’ sentiment. Located at the far end of the West Coast of the Berbice River behind

neighbouring Blairmont, Ithaca marks the furthest end of the West Bank of the Berbice River. Bought, built and developed by a group of ex-slaves, farming has been the biggest economic contributor for a majority of its citizens. The village has seen its fair share of issues, tragedies and adversities.

But like their ancestors, the people of Ithaca refuse to give up their way of life that has brought them this far.

The Pepperpot Magazine found Dianne Saul weeding and cleaning around her Ithaca home with a cutlass. This, she said, was how the people in the countryside lived.

Dianne was not born in Ithaca but has called the

Dianne Saul busy working at her fireside at her Ithaca home(Japheth Savory photos)

One of Ithaca’s famed bells that sends messages through the village

village her home since she was six. Today, at the age of fifty-eight, Dianne has welcomed and adapted to the way of living in Ithaca.

“I have lived in Ithaca for about fifty-two years. My family came here because of my father. He worked at GUYWA and was the superintendent and he w a s t r a n s f e r re d b a c k to Ithaca, so my family left Northwest and came here,” Dianne shared.

Although one of the country’s oldest communities, Ithaca’s development was gradual and its population has seen a spike in recent years. Dianne remembers what the village

looked like more than five decades ago. The village was not yet populated, and Dianne’s family’s home was among the first in the area.

Located near the canal, Dianne reminisced about what the community was like with fewer people, and far fewer issues. “We were the first house for this area at the back here. There were not so many buildings. All we had was a little wooden house,” she stated.

Ithaca was once so sparcely populated, in fact, that the community was home to just two cars. At the time, Ithaca also did not have electricity, and in a community with few people, there was very little light at night. She further added, “The streets were dark at night. You could not even see your hands,” she said. Despite the issues encountered, however, the Saul family remained in the village of Ithaca. The family’s biggest motivator for staying and still their biggest reason for loving the community of Ithaca is its people.

“This village shows

you a lot of love,” Dianne told the Pepperpot Magazine. The entire community, people from the length and breadth of the village, would come out in aid or support from the ring of a bell. Ithaca is one of the few places in Guyana that has kept the tradition of bell ringing alive and very well.

Ithaca is home to two bells, both of which are rang at different times of convey a variety of different messages to Ithaca’s people. “If anything happens in Ithaca, they ring the bell. It has different rings for thieves, someone’s death, someone coming for a meeting or someone coming for war.”

Dianne shared.

Although Dianne and her family are not experts on Ithaca’s history, they are still very much involved in the cultural practices of the village. Ithaca is home to a cultural group Dianne says, “We have a cultural group that does the QuehQueh. On the night before the wedding, we have a celebration, we have songs we sing and dances.” The cultural group that is led by the elders of the village

teach the songs and dances as authentically as possible.

They try to keep in touch with their roots by keeping and passing down the traditional practices the way it was as taught to them.

Ithaca was built on agriculture. The village was originally a plantation; most of its first people planted and the majority still farm today. In recent times, however, the village has seen a shift in the economic practices of its residents, with more people turning to work outside of the village. “In Ithaca we plant and we go out and do shopping too. But most people still have kitchen gardens. The way of life in Ithaca is nice.” Dianne stated. The village is not without challenges. Being prone to flooding, roads in need of development and the current water situation just a few of the issues the residents say they would like to see mitigated. Despite these less than perfect conditions, Dianne says that, “We have our problems in Ithaca but we are not giving up.”

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Ithaca

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

The village of the ‘Queh-Queh’

By Shaniya Harding A CROWD of men and women dressed in captivating and colourful traditional garb led by a happy bridegroom with flowers stuck in his hair and the creases of his clothes, danced in search of his wife as the village comes out.

The village people all sing,

rich tradition.

The people of Ithaca are welcoming, strong and proud of their heritage. The village was built and founded by eight men who bought the land now known as Ithaca.

Many people of the village, particularly the older folks, know stories from the dawn of Ithaca. One of those people is Cynthia Kellman. Cyn-

thia told the Pepperpot Magazine. Plantation Balthyock is said to have been located in Blairmont and was the home of the first people of Ithaca. “They used to work and live there at plantation Balthyock and the Minister Reverend James Roome organised them to buy this village,” she shared. Ithaca was bought by a group of

on, becoming what Ithaca is today.

Ithaca was built on the belief that a village was being birthed, not simply a housing scheme or a place for it’s people to live, but a community that could sustain itself and withstand the test of time leaving a home and foundation for coming generations. Cynthia says

The new Ithaca Primary School

dance and celebrate when the bride is found, and the wedding is confirmed in one of the oldest African traditions still alive today: the Queh-Queh. This and countless other traditions are kept alive and well in the community of Ithaca.

From sending messages through the community by the ring of a single bell to practising traditional dances, Ithaca has preserved its history through its people, practices and

thia or Ms Kellman as she is popularly known, is one of Ithaca’s traditional historians. She said this is because she is a direct descendant of one of the village founders.

Before Ithaca was the village it is known as today, it was just a plantation. The community has come far since then, which Cynthia says is because Ithaca’s people never forgot where they came from.

“The ancestors worked at plantation Balthyock,” Cyn-

eight persons who purchased the village. At that time, this was a sum of money not easily acquired, and the eight men had to work hard to pool their resources together.

However, on May 16, 1842, the land was bought and the village of Ithaca was born.

After gaining the land, the men divided the land among themselves. In the following years, land was given to their children, grandchildren or next of kin. As such, the village grew as time went

the school, built in 1847, was a big step for the village.

“The school was there until it was moved. That school had been there for more than

Ithaca historian and elder Cynthia Kellman (Japheth Savory photos)

a hundred years when they moved it.” Cynthia said.

The people of the time developed the village the only way they knew how, by farming. “It was coffee and coco plantation and they continued. The obstacle they had was drainage, that had a lot of flooding. Some people plant provision and they were self-employed after that,” Cynthia said. One of the most captivating aspects of Ithaca’s development is that the village’s members collaborated to form their own local governance. More than a hundred years ago, this was quite the task and quiet the accomplishment, “They organised themselves and formed their own local authority. They had made a committee who would open and close the kokar for the village,” Cynthia shared.

Keeping the tradition alive In African cultures worldwide, practices surrounding marriage have been known to be a big part of their tradition. Ithaca, with its deep African roots, has kept the tradition of QuehQueh alive. Cynthia talked

a bit about the celebration, stating, “We are known to dance Queh-Queh. It is a pre wedding dance. We would dance it before the wedding and we would cook foods like shine rice, provision and drink mauby and ginger ale. And we would dance all night until the wedding the next day.”

A big part of the QuehQueh celebrations is the symbolic “buying” of the bride by the groom. Cynthia explained that, “The bridegroom’s family have their own Queh-Queh, and the bride their own QuehQueh. When it’s midnight, they would say it’s time to buy the bride. They would sing and dance coming down the road. They would break flowers and stick them in their head tie,” she explained. The celebrations are full of customs and rules that are followed.

From the special songs they sing to the unique dances done, Queh-Queh and many other celebrations in Ithaca are beautiful, captivating and is being kept alive.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Changing times and shifting tides

By Shaniya Harding THE history of Ithaca does not go unnoticed. Preserving culture and tradition is important in Ithaca, and the older population greatly emphasises it. However, the younger people of Ithaca say that as important as tradition is, space needs to be made for new traditions and more modern practices. Not kicking the village’s history and authentic African practices to the curb, but rather creating more space for young

The younger generation of Ithaca

Ithaca is far away from the capital city. Most of Kaycia’s family members who work also face the challenge of travelling to and fro for work. Kaycia’s aunt, for instance, who works in Georgetown, makes the commute from Ithaca to Georgetown about three times a week.

Kaycia herself is currently thinking about her next steps into the world of work after graduation. In her community, however, she would like to see the introduction of more facilities in hopes of creating more job opportunities. Re-

Kaycia Benjamin (Japheth Savory photos)

people and perhaps some new traditions.

Ithaca is the only home 17-year-old Kaycia Benjamin has ever known. Kaycia recently graduated from Bushlot Secondary School. Her family and friends describe her as vocal, outspoken and highly opinionated. Kaycia shared some of her opinions on the development of Ithaca in the years she has known the community. “We have a problem with unemployment And you find that a lot of people go into teaching and nursing because it is easy to get into,” she stated.

gardless, she is happy living with her family in Ithaca, and come what may, she will continue to call the community home.

Located near the entrance to Ithaca is a shop owned by the Frantzen family. Mother and son duo Elvin ‘Gussie’ Frantzen and Deloras Frantzen run a small convenience store in Ithaca. Deloras has lived in Ithaca for over five decades and her son was born in the village. “Raising a family at that time was easy. The conditions then were okay for the generation.

There was not too much of

brightness and excitement.

They could have focused on the future,” she said. Deloras further added that Ithaca was the perfect place to raise a family at the time. The young people then, as she explained, had far fewer distractions and were far more focused on important things.

Times in the community have changed. The relationship among neighbours, however, has not. Elvin is one of Ithaca’s young men.

He said there have been subtle changes in the village’s customs and way of life with the younger generation. But they do still maintain the same brotherly love Ithaca is known for. He stated that, “The relationship between me and friends in the community is good. We do not fight or have any problems.”

Farming in Ithaca is another aspect that is undergoing change. Increasing challenging situations with farming are causing young people to turn to alternative forms of employment.

A large percentage of people from Ithaca work at the Blairmont estate.

As much as this is a job opportunity, the young people, particularly the young men, would like to see more provisions made for other work and community pastimes.

Ithaca is home to a basketball court, a popular spot for the community’s young people.

Elvin is interested in sports, and he sees great athletic potential in the young people of Ithaca. Sports, to any extent, in any community, has the potential to keep young people positively occupied and can open doors of untapped potential.

Nickola Benjamin is a 21-year-old who lives in Ithaca. As a young mother,

Elvin Frantzen

Nickola Benhamin

she echoes the sentiment of countless other younger people: the issue of looking for a job straight out of high school, but the lack of experience is their biggest problem.

Nickola has become a part of the government’s CIP initiative. She stated that although it is not perfect, it is a place to begin, learn and develop later on. “It was difficult getting

Ithaca’s basketball court

a job. I was a vendor before beginning the 10-day work. I joined a month after I got my son, so about eight or nine months now.”

Nickola explained that the CIP work was beneficial to her. As a mother, she found that it created more time for her son and for herself. Nickola works at Ithaca’s daycare centre.

She understands the opinions of people who question the permanence of the CIP work, but Nickola does not see it as something permanent. Rather, she sees it as a starting point, “I see it as something good for young people to do. Rather than sitting down at home, you can make some money, and you do not have to depend on anyone,” she shared. All of Ithaca’s young people are adamant about not deserting the old way of life. But they are simply searching for a way to add new practices.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Raised by the village How the men of Ithaca taught one young man the importance of ambition

By Shaniya Harding The sparks of welding metals together and the thumping bassline of a song are two things that are not usually paired. But these are two things that D’Andre Walcott thoroughly enjoys. D’Andre is a 25-year-old man from the captivating community of Ithaca. He works as a welder by day, while he deejays under the alias of ‘Selector Thunder’ by night. Today, trying to make a life for himself as a father of one, D’Andre says that ambition is the most important lesson he has ever learned. And although it was a lesson not taught by his father, he is asking other young men like himself to persevere in the face of adversity.

D’Andre grew up in Ithaca with great influence and support from his community.

Ithaca has cultivated a very rich culture of brotherly love. D’Andre described Ithaca as a place where neighbours form and cherish strong bonds. He shared that, “I have lived in the village of

Ithaca my whole life. Growing up here was very nice and the people around here are very welcoming and supportive. It is like everybody here is family, although we are not related by blood.”

D’Andre grew up as the eldest of four siblings. This placed a lot of responsibility on him at a young age.

D’Andre was not exposed to a father figure in his home for the larger part of his childhood. ‘I used to support my mother. I knew my father, but I never grew up with him. It was just me, my mother and my stepfather.”

D’Andre shared. His stepfather, however, later left the family when D’Andre was 14 or 15 years old.

“It was tough for us when my stepfather left,” D’Andre shared, who became his family’s sole provider. D’Andre’s family was placed under pressure.

“It was just my mother and she was not working at that time,” he said. D’Andre stepped up to help his mother provide for his three younger siblings.

However, as challenging as it was, D’Andre says he

D’Andre Walcott and his daughter at their Ithaca home (Japheth Savory photos)

never felt like he lost a father figure. The older men in his village also stepped up to the plate to teach him

D’Andre hard at work in his workshop also located in Ithaca.

what heneeded to learn about manhood. “I had a lot of people around here that would support me and plenty of big men as friends, so, it never really affected me…I had father figures in this community.

The men in this village taught me the ropes” he said.

The greatest lesson imparted on him by his community was the importance of having big ambitions in life, regardless of the current circumstances. “Ambition is important because you need to believe in yourself and know that you have to get things done and learn to make sacrifices.” D’Andre stated.

D’Andre is a father of one, his daughter. The pair have an amazing relationship. Although he is not married to her mother, D’Andre makes the utmost effort to be present in his daughter’s

life. He tries his best to juggle two jobs with parenting, and he says yes, there are difficulties, but D’Andre is adamant that everything will turn out for the best. “Sometimes with work and her is tough. But I try my best to manage and set my time,” D’Andre explained.

Dropping out of school is what D’Andre cited as his biggest regret. Going back to school, however, is now one of his biggest goals. He is a welder by trade, something he learnt a few years ago. Developing his own workshop is also something D’Andre is currently working on as he has set up shop at his Ithaca home. “I am now working on opening my workshop, and I am getting there,” he shared. “I left school when I was 16. I did not write CXC.” D’Andre’s upbringing was what some may con-

sider humble but had rough beginnings. D’Andre says that in times of struggle, grasping what you can is integral to the future. He urged young men like himself to not take anything for granted, because when the importance is recognised, it may be too late. “My advice to the youths is easy. I would advise them to stay in school and try to further their studies as much as possible.

Because as it is right now, I want to go back to school.

But I cannot because there are too many things happening,” he said.

D’Andre does his job as a welder with immense joy, but his true passion lies in music. To D’Andre, music is somewhat of an escape.“I like everything about music. It is very relaxing,” Hesaid. “It calms you down, it raises people up, music is life.”

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

Deep South Rupununi now home ... are able to take people in to experience the natural beauty of the forest and the savannahs.”

Rayson and his mom also entertain persons at their home and at a friend’s farm in the area, which provides guests with the ‘farm to table’ experience where they are involved in the process of reaping and preparing the vegetables for their meals. Of course, they are able to experience some of the traditional techniques used in cooking in this part of the country.

“I loved to entertain. I enjoy people’s company and meeting new people and what better way to do this than at your home? I have fun doing it,” Rayson expressed.

In the dry season, people can sling their hammocks under the mango trees or on the hill itself under huge whitey trees.

R a y s o n ’s p l a n s , though, include construct-

FROM PAGE IV

Sunset view from Shea Rock

modation. There is a small stream there, so another ingenious idea on the cards is to have it excavated so there’s a nice place to take a dip while in the forest.

The attractions mentioned in this article that are part of

Who needs a bed?

ing a building on the hill.

Imagine a huge benab-style restaurant on the hill itself!

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And since there are hardly any waterways in and around the village, he wants to include a swimming pool.

As for his friend’s farm that he uses, Rayson has in mind constructing another benab there for accom-

Rayson’s tour are just really the half of it.

“For an authentic farmto-table experience within the South Rupununi, then look no further! Through Alma & Rayson O’Connell, you will enjoy a visit to the

Terrence Farm, cultural presentations, horseback riding and even climbing Shea Rock. There’s so much to experience with this new tour,” the Guyana Tourism Authority has said.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

WHEN LOVE WALKED INTO HER LIFE III

RACHEL didn’t sleep well that night, feeling still the soft touch of his lips and seeing that deep attraction in his eyes, for age didn’t seem to matter to him.

“What do I do?” she voiced helplessly, torn between her deep feelings for him and the age factor.

“How do I tell my children that I think I am falling in love with someone fourteen years younger?

What would they say?”

That uncertainty weighed heavily on her mind, and added to that was the fear that he could one day betray her just like her ex-husband had done.

“I won’t be able to go through another heartache,” she whispered.

She had thought she had found the love of her life when she met her husband and had given heart and soul for the years they spent together until that shocking revelation. It hadn’t been easy dealing with that kind of pain, and the healing process took a long time as she picked up the shattered pieces of her life. In her own quiet way, she had battled the emptiness and loneliness, never thinking of meeting someone else.

Then, that day, when she grabbed hold of a total stranger on the road, something unexpected happened.

“What is my heart telling me?” she wondered.

She buried her face in t h e p i l l o w, n o t w a n t ing to answer that question, to deny her feelings.

Yet when she awoke late the next morning, the first thing on her mind was him, Chris.

He messaged her early while she was asleep, and she smiled after reading the text.

“Always with some kind of humour.”

They spoke for a while as she had breakfast, and he somehow managed to take off some worry from her mind.

“All you have to do is remember the dog.”

She laughed a little, for it was indeed an unforget-

table and funny moment.

“And that little laughter just made my day,” he said, “Talk to you later.”

She took a long, refreshing bath and relaxed a little before the children came home.

As usual they were happy to be home and she asked, “ Wo n d e r f u l w e e k e n d ? ” “ Ye s ! ” t h e y a n -

at her children, taken aback with surprise. “ W h a t ? ” “You’re not having any fun in your life,” Aide n p o i n t e d o u t t o h e r. “ A n d y o u d o n ’t s m i l e and laugh much anymore,” Sarah added.

Rachel looked at her children and took a deep breath, real-

into her life, she wasn’t sure how close to embrace him for that fear and uncertainty were standing between them.

She somehow has to find a way to overcome those hurdles.

That weekend for her and the kids were packed with a basketball game, a fun time at the park, ice cream and

swered in unison. “ We w o n ’ t b e g o ing next week, though,” A i d e n i n f o r m e d h e r.

“Why?” “Dad will call you later, but I guess we can tell you now. He’s taking Meredith to Paris for her birthday.”

“Oh, nice,” Rachel exclaimed softly. The two children looked at her, their expressions a little sad. “That should have been you, mom.”

She sighed and embraced them, “We’re past that, okay? And I’m doing fine.”

That evening as they sat down to dinner, Aiden said, “There is something Sarah and I would like to say to you.”

“What is it?”

The children exchanged glances and hesitate d a l i t t l e t o a n s w e r.

“Well?” she urged them.

“We think you need to have a boyfriend,” Aiden stated.

Rachel froze and looked

izing they were right and she said in a calm tone, “I know I’ve been living a quiet, simple life but I’m okay with it.”

“You need to change your life a little,” the children advised.

“Really? My eight- and t e n - y e a r- o l d s a d v i s i n g me to have a boyfriend?”

They nodded with innocent smiles and Rachel couldn’t help smiling, shaking her head a little in disbelief.

“You know, it’s not that easy but I can give it some thought.”

Lying in bed that night, she reflected on her children’s advice, knowing that it came from seeing how their father was living his life and that she deserved some fun and happiness too. She knew what she was missing, battling silently the loneliness, the need to have someone close to share special moments with.

Now that he has walked

shopping. As they passed a boutique, Sarah pointed to a red mini-dress in the store’s window and said to Rachel, “That will look really good on you.”

T h e n e x t d a y, R a chel went to the store and bought the dress.

“Guess I’ll have to make a few changes to my wardrobe, given I was advised to find a boyfriend,” she chuckled.

Chris called her after he came back from a weeklong project and said to her, “I miss you. Can I see you this weekend?”

“I miss you too,” was her silent response, and after a short moment, s h e t o l d h i m , “ Ye s . ” He came that Saturday night with flowers and a bottle of wine.

She had cooked d i n n e r a n d w a s w e a ring the red mini-dress.

“Sensuous!” he expressed

with an admiring smile.

It was quite a lovely evening with a touch of intimacy that filled her with a feeling of warmth. He didn’t want to leave and somehow overpowered by his closeness and invigorating masculine scent, she didn’t want him to leave either.

It was a night of passion and bliss as she surrendered to the desires she had locked away for years and the world seemed n o t t o m a t t e r.

And so it began, the change in her life, the way she smiled, her laughter. Her children were happy for her and her friends were quite ecstatic about it all.

Rachel looked at her reflection in the bathroom mirror and saw a glow in her face that came from the happiness within. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, asking herself a question, “Could this last?

Would it stay with me?”

They became very close, and she invited him to meet with the children so she could cross the first hurdle in her mind, the age factor.

That went better than she expected with hardly any questions, for they liked him. Sarah’s observation was, “It doesn’t matter that he’s younger. What matters is that he likes you.”

“How would you know that?”

“The way he looked at you.”

And that coming from her eight-year-old surprised Rachel again.

Aiden, the boy he was, was impressed with Chris’s knowledge and love for basketball and car racing, and he said to Rachel quietly, “If he asks you to marry him, you can say yes.” “ Wo w ! ” s h e e x p r e s s e d with a little laugh.

N o w, i t w a s j u s t t h a t one thing that had left a sear on her mind.

Chris knew it and he had told her, “When you’re in my arms, I can feel every vibe coming through your body and I have felt that fear, but I want you to believe in me and trust me.”

“I so want to,” she had whispered, for this time it was different. This deep feeling of love was unique in its own way.

Chris left a few days later to visit a few project sites and told her, “I can also change my job so I don’t have to travel too often. We will discuss it when I return.”

But one week later, she received a call that he had met with an accident at the work site and was taken to the hospital.

“Oh God, no,” she cried.

That message sent her heart racing, and at that moment, every other worry in her mind dissipated as she prayed reverently on her way to the hospital, “Please God, let him be okay.”

His injuries were not too serious and her tears flowed in relief as she sat by his bedside. “ H e y, ” h e t o u c h e d h e r hand and said a bit weakly, “Don’t cry, I’ll be fine.”

She wiped her tears and inhaled deeply, free now from that nagging fear, and to express her true feelings and, she said to him softly, “I want you to know how much you have made my world brighter and I love you more than I can really say.”

H e s m i l e d w i t h re l i e f a n d s a i d , “ Yo u know if I had known an accident could have caused you to open your heart to me, I could have had it arranged.”

She laughed and said,“You’re hurt and c a n s t i l l b e f u n n y. ” “Because it makes you laugh and that, is a beautiful sound I love.”

He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it.

“From the moment I saw you, I knew I wanted you in my life and I will love you and make you happy.”

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BRICS+- TheFASHION SUMMIT fashion event of the year!

I MENTIONED briefly in last week’s column that I was in Moscow and now I have so much to write about!

It was monumental, momentous, memorable, inspi-

industry.

I must thank Dr Marcia Brandon for the confidence to give such a recommendation.

“Dr. Sonia Noel has had a stellar career in fashion design in Guyana and the Caribbean.

rational, impactful, stellar, spectacular, sensational, phenomenal, extraordinary, educational, engaging, rewarding, majestic, unforgettable. These are some of the adjectives I used in the last article to describe the BRICS+ Fashion Summit It was an honour to participate in an event of this magnitude and it was executed with class and sophistication.

I had many things floating through my mind as I sat on the plane to visit a new continent. To God be the glory for the doors he continues to open.

It was great meeting these amazing people who have created fashion events that are supported around the world.

I must commend Alexander Shumsky, Moscow Fashion Week, the Russian Fashion Council and the entire team for this great initiative that will impact the global fashion

When our partners in Russia invited us at Caribbean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Livelihoods (COESL) to select one of our supported entrepreneurs or partners in the industry to participate in this BRICS Summit, we didn’t hesitate to select Dr. Noel. We were confident that she would represent herself, her country, her region and COESL very well. Thank you Dr. Noel. Job very well done.”

I appreciate Dr Brandon’s support more than words can express. I believe she knows me well enough to know that I will invite others to walk through any doors that will open with me.

The summit includes a business programme for industry practitioners, lectures

by Russian and foreign instructors and experts, fashion shows and many other events. Below are some reviews shared with me:

“The international BRICS+ Fashion Summit was held in Moscow from November 28 to December 2. It is being organised under the auspices of the Moscow Fashion Week. I have never attended any fashion anywhere where industry’s leading professionals, clothing industry specialists, veteran and emerging designers, creative directors, founders of fashion weeks, photographers, illustrators, bloggers, etc at the event to forge relations for something that is bigger than all of us.

The atmosphere was ripe to forge many partnerships and collaboration. I have connected with many people and believe I will be collaborating on many future projects. One such collaboration is happening today because of this summit. My brother Bench from the Philippines, who has created Manila International Fashion Week, carried some of my designs for a showcase at his event. I also connected well with Nando (second to my right in group pic) and he shared his experience at the summit.”

“BRICS+ Fashion Summit was an eye-opening experience. I think it’s important to bring these types of events to the table to discuss all the matters that are important in fashion right now: collaboration, sustainability and innovation. Moscow was a true fashion capital during the summit, where designers from around the world showcased their finest collections.

Definitely would come back!”

Nando Yax - Public Relations and Associate Director, Guatemala Fashion Week My sister from Botswana (in pic) and I are already working on something, and she also shared her feedback on the summit.

“I recently had the distinct pleasure of attending the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, an event that has truly set a new benchmark in the global fashion arena. This summit wasn’t just a gathering; it was a ground-breaking movement, bringing together the brightest

fashion icons from around the world. What stood out to me was the remarkable synergy among diverse cultures, each bringing their unique

perspectives to the table, yet united in a common vision for the future of fashion.

The highlight for me was the foundation laid for

the new BRICS+ Fashion Federation. This isn’t just another organization, it’s a SEE PAGE XXII

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The easy tell of serious matters --through the creative medium of the arts and literature, as edutainment

THE bully on the playground picked up the bat, even though it was not his, and attempted to take it.

But after arguing with teachers, he was convinced that he was wrong, but would not accept the truth.

He shouted louder. False pride and arrogant opportunity were in control. What sinister

forces prey on human nature.

The following pages are extracted from a booklet that was convincing to a generation of Guyanese. Simply informative, it was well executed by the late historian, Joel Benjamin, Allan Fenty and illustrated, as far as I know, by the still-kicking Tyrone Doris.

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GUYANA/VENEZUELA CONTROVERSY HABITUAL VENEZUELAN FALSIFICATIONS

BEFORE we begin to point out the main falsifications which Venezuelan spokespersons habitually employ in their narrative on the controversy, whereby they are trying to seize Guyana’s territory, we would like to remind readers of the outdated and backward psychological paradigm in which Venezuela operates.

Unlike Guyana, Venezuela still lives in the 19th century, the world of Napoleon and Simon Bolivar, when states with powerful armies could seize parts of other countries. Such behaviour, which was criminal banditry, is today recognised for what it is, and the international community, international organisations and international law reject it and treat it as unacceptable.

Such behaviour is inherently unjust and disturbs international peace and stability, and the nations of the world now condemn it and increasingly take action to curb it.

Venezuela operates within this 19th-century paradigm and stands isolated from modern world opinion. Over the years, the Venezuelan “reasons” which have been given for their desire to seize Guyana’s territory vary and may even contradict, but they are all anchored in this 19th century paradigm, and so also are the various falsifications and misinformation they use in their narratives. Below, we analyse a few of the most habitual of these falsifications: First Falsification: Venezuela had nothing to do with the Arbitral Award and had rejected it i. That Venezuela never accepted the 1899 Arbitral Award, which prescribed the border between Venezuela and Guyana ii. That Venezuela played no part whatsoever in the Arbitration iii. That the Arbitration was forced on Venezuela by Britain and USA for their own purposes iv. That Venezuela had no part whatsoever in the Treaty of Washington of 1897, which arranged the Arbitration, which made the Award which, by Article XIII, was “a full, perfect and final settlement.”

The Truth: In the latter half of the 19th century, the newly independent Venezuela showed expansionist tendencies and wished to extend its territory well beyond the Orinoco, westwards. British Guiana had just had its boundary demarcated by the German geographer Robert Schomburgk in the 1840s and Venezuela raised the cry that Schomburgk had taken in their territory in British Guiana.

At that time, the US was reviving the Monroe Doctrine, intent on being the paramount power in the Americas.

Venezuela accordingly secured them as patrons in their claims against Britain. Britain was forced by the US on behalf of Venezuela to agree to an Arbitration and this was enshrined in the Treaty of Washington, 1897.

Jose Andrade signed the Treaty on behalf of the President of Venezuela and it was ratified by the Venezuelan Congress with its President, Joaquin Crespo, describing it as “an effort of intelligence and goodwill worthy of praise and thanks from us.” Venezuela insisted that the Treaty be an ‘Arbitration Treaty’ and its demand was accepted.

Venezuela appointed the Chief Justice of the United States its Arbitrator. Article XIII of the Award describes it as being “a full, perfect and final settlement of all the questions referred to the Arbitrators.” The Venezuelan Ambassador to Britain described the Award as “Greatly,

indeed, did justice shine forth”. In Caracas, there was much jubilation and postage stamps were issued to mark the event.

Venezuela was fully involved in all aspects of the Treaty setting up the Arbitral Tribunal and fully accepted its Award which established the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Second Falsification: That Venezuela had no part in demarcating the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

The Truth: As soon as the Arbitral Award was made, Venezuela demanded that the boundaries be demarcated. Accordingly, Britain and Venezuela established a Boundary Commission,

and Venezuelan and British surveyors worked between 1900 and 1905 to demarcate the boundary. Therefore, Venezuela demarcated the boundary, and its name appears on every boundary panel. The boundary established by the commission was fully accepted as the international border between Guyana and Venezuela, and this was so for over 60 years until Britain was ready to give Guyana its independence in the 1960s, and Venezuela was opposing that independence.

Third Falsification: That the Geneva Agreement of 1966 replaced the 1899 Arbitral Award and called for a practical solution to the problem and ignored SEE PAGE XVII any involvement of the Secretary

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Bringing thespirit of...

Natalya interacting with children at previous kids’ fest events

FROM PAGE III

talya’s support system are her sponsors.

“We have to have a lot of financial backing; it takes a lot of logistics and you have to invest before,” Natalya shared.

She entered into her first few Kids Fest with the sole purpose of creating something that will draw and captivate children.

That sole purpose remains, but as the years have passed, the event has grown, as well as the variety of the attractions available. Sponsors like Banks, and Digicel have worked with Natalya in putting together gifts, hampers and attractions. “The big sponsors offset the majority of the expenses, that is why it is important to show that you have some kind of consistency.”

Her track record and willingness to continue events like this year’s Brunch with Santa and the accompanying road parade is undeniably strong and Natalya has no intentions of stopping. On the 17th, Natalya and her team of sponsors hope to give Guyana’s children a unique experience coupling Macy’s Road Parade with Guyanese music, Christmas characters taking photos with our country’s children and forging memories that will last a lifetime.

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GUYANA/VENEZUELA...

FROM PAGE XV

General of the United Nations.

The Truth: Venezuela was opposing Guyana’s independence and the British worked out the Geneva Agreement, whereby the controversy was to be settled within four years. With that Agreement, Venezuela lifted her opposition to Guyana being granted its independence, which was conferred in May 1966.

The Agreement in no way moved away from the 1899 Award, and the World Court acknowledged this. It specified that if no progress was made, the controversy should be referred to the UN Secretary-General, who would recommend a vehicle for a solution.

Before this was done, the parties decided to use the Good Offices process of dialogue under UN auspices, which went on for nearly three decades without fruit and eventually, both parties withdrew from it, leaving the controversy to be referred to the UN Secretary-General, who recommended the ICJ as the vehicle for solution which Guyana accepted, but Venezuela did not, though they participated in the hearings of that Court.

Accordingly, the 1966 Geneva Agreement never replaced the 1899 Award and it did prescribe the part UN Secretary-General was to play in recommending a vehicle for solution.

Fourth Falsification: Venezuela is calling for Guyana to abandon its case at the ICJ and engage in bilateral dialogue as, such will result in a peaceful and constructive outcome.

The Truth: At the ICJ, Guyana and Venezuela are on the same and equal ground and the Court could rule in favour of either party. Venezuela assumes that with bilateral dialogue, they, with their huge army, great wealth, population of tens of millions and international contacts, will always be able to overpower weak and small Guyana, unlike at the ICJ where the decision may go in Guyana’s favour. Guyana’s reply to this call for dialogue is that they are willing to engage in dialogue in all matters such as economic, social and, cultural and other cooperation, but the ICJ must be allowed to adjudicate on the case before it. Guyana was engaged in dialogue with Venezuela for nearly 30 years with no results, during which time Venezuela erupted into threats, violence and economic sabotage against Guyana.

The call for dialogue by Venezuela is propagandistic and meaningless when one remembers the failed dialogue for nearly 30 years and Venezuela’s threats and attacks during that time.

Fifth Falsification: Venezuelan spokespersons always omit some essential part of the Truth in their narratives. For example, they do not mention the 1899 Arbitration, which had fixed the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela and which Venezuela had accepted for over 60 years. When they call for dialogue, they do not mention that dialogue was tried for nearly 30 years under the Good Offices process and proved fruitless and that during that time they continually erupted in threats and violence against Guyana.

This controversy arose in the 1960s as a Cold War ploy to delay Guyana’s independence, and it should have been allowed to fade away in due course. Instead, Venezuelan governments used it to indoctrinate their population since they

XVII were overcome with greed for Guyana’s natural resources and this is seen in all their videos where they stress Essequibo’s riches and no principle or other reason whatsoever for their claim. Now that Guyana has become an oil-rich country, their greed has become sharper, and this has resulted in the present strident threats to invade and seize Guyana’s territory militarily, as manifested in their infamous referendum or plebiscite.

With a population constantly stirred up in expectation of the seizure of Guyana’s great riches, Venezuelan governments, and in particular the present one, find themselves riding a tiger’s back and can’t dismount.

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Energy Conservation

ENERGY and environmental problems are closely interrelated since producing, transporting, or consuming energy without significant environmental impact is nearly impossible.

The environmental issues directly related to energy

production and consumption include air pollution, climate change, water pollution, thermal pollution, and solid-waste disposal. Ironically, despite the urgent need for environmental sustainability and prevention of the looming threats posed by climate change, we continue to squander more energy than

we conscientiously consume. Fossil fuel reliance has been the backbone of our energy sectors for decades, but it’s also the primary contributor to carbon emissions, exacerbating climate change.

The by-products of energy generation from burning coal, oil, or natural gas lead to air pollution, affecting air quality and human health. Water pollution from various energy-production processes, thermal pollution (resulting from the discharge of heated water), and the mounting challenge of managing solid waste further compound the environmental toll of our current inefficient energy sector.

Amidst these challenges, the need for a fundamental shift in our approach to energy consumption becomes apparent.

We stand at a pivotal moment where the urgency to mitigate environmental impact necessitates an overall shift in our energy-usage habits. It calls for action that demands collective responsibility from individuals, industries, and governments alike.

A Shift to Energy Conservation Energy conservation is key as we pursue sustainable development. It involves conscientious decisions to reduce energy waste by optimising consumption and leveraging energy-efficient technologies. Energy conservation isn’t just a concept; it’s a powerful tool that allows consumers to take charge and significantly reduce energy waste in their daily lives. Energy-conservation practices help us reduce some of the burden on our power grid. It calls us to make informed choices, cultivate habits, and adopt behaviours that limit unnecessary energy consumption and waste. Simple actions such as turning off lights when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and reducing unnecessary energy consumption can collectively positively impact the nation’s energy landscape.

Amazingly, it places the power in the hands of you, the citizens, empowering you to optimise energy usage by adopting efficient technologies and appliances in all facets of your life and making a conscious effort to avoid energy waste.

According to the IPCC’s latest report, we stand at a critical juncture in our efforts to preSEE PAGE XXII vent global temperatures from surpassing a one °C increase

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BRICS+ FASHION...

FROM PAGE XIII

game-changer that promises to redefine how we perceive the global fashion business. It’s thrilling to witness how this federation is poised to champion Africa’s rich cultural heritage, unleashing a wave of innovation and creativity. The BRICS+ Fashion Summit has indeed opened the doors for Africa to shine on the global stage, showcasing its potential to be the next big hub of fashion innovation and creativity. The decades ahead look incredibly promising, and I am excited to be a part of this transformative journey.

Am also excited about the partnerships forged and the friendships! I certainly look forward to working with Guyana!! We will together transform out fashion industries and change lives and livelihoods in our countries!” Mmantlha Sanloloba, Chief Executive Officer of Botswana Exporters & Manufacturers Association and Founder and President of Botswana Fashion Week I believe the collaborations and partnerships will be so many because of some of the discussions I have heard, and that will be one of the many success stories.

When the invitation came, I shared it with a few people, and most were excited and positive, but a few felt it might be dangerous, given the current climate. While acknowledging the risks, the truth is that no day did I feel unsafe in Moscow.

Many of my colleagues mentioned that Moscow is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and they were not kidding.

I will certainly amplify more on that next week as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called LIFE BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

Energy ...

FROM PAGE XVIII

above pre-industrial levels. This threshold represents a crucial marker in averting the most severe and irreversible impacts of climate change.

By embracing energy conservation, individuals not only contribute to mitigating the environmental impact of energy production but also pave the way for cost-effective solutions that resonate across communities and industries.

It’s about taking ownership and realising that each effort towards reducing energy waste is the key to a more sustainable future for future generations.

The Environmental Protection Agency urges individuals to make an effort to develop environmentally friendly habits that collectively contribute to reducing our carbon footprints and preserving our planet’s precious ecosystems for future generations to thrive.

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Stop creating ‘Poverty Zoos’ during the holiday season with charity donations IT’S officially the holiday season, which means it’s also the season of giving.

During this season, people will most likely share gifts with others. People are also more likely to distribute items to the underprivileged and underserved communities who are in need. You’d find toy drives, soup kitchens, and other events happening in poverty-stricken communities. It warms my heart to see this.

However, I sometimes find

ple are already drafting their charitable Christmas plans.

It is important that we give, yes. However, we eliminate repetition and even focus on specific areas of need simply by asking questions or being knowledgeable about the organisation in mind prior to donating. It also eliminates waste and promotes sustainable gifting by understanding the wants and needs of those you’d like to donate to.

I saw online that someone mentioned the phrase

ble donations should not be made to feel as if it is indeed an act of charity. The recipients should not be treated that way simply to receive basic needs. Many will say there is no specific way to give charitable donations, but I believe that we should use our moral compass and understand that while these are charitable donations, the recipients are human beings.

I also want to remind people who may be feeling generous: the holiday season

it concerning when items are given to persons without much consideration during this holiday season.

You should be aware of the goals and expectations of specific organisations, institutions or programmes, such as orphanages and NGOs that you’re willing to give to. You should also personally reflect on your personal motivations behind these decisions before you attempt to dive deeper.

Are your intentions genuine? What is your purpose or goal? Do you plan to follow up?

Perhaps, there are already five people gifting toys to an orphanage. As such, you can enquire about other needs of the orphanage or perhaps specific requests of the children themselves. I wanted to point out this concern for this week’s column piece because I know many peo-

“poverty zoo,” referencing persons who find entertainment in engaging in charity. The struggles and challenges of others shouldn’t be used as a means to teach your children a lesson.

It shouldn’t be used for you to remind yourself of “how bad things can be.”

It shouldn’t be used to put people’s lives on display for you to feel better about a “cause.” These people genuinely need help, and this can be very disturbing and disrespectful to them and their emotional or mental health.

I think people should also be mindful of social media and how they use it to share their charitable work. You can share pictures of the head of the organisation receiving the items, but I would advise against sharing pictures of the direct recipients of those items. I think these charita-

isn’t the only time when you can make charitable donations. There might be an overflow of donations during this time, but people are constantly in need of help in every other month of the year.

As such, you can consider donating to persons, charities or organisations of your choice at another time—it doesn’t always have to be at Christmas. Some homes and shelters will even tell you that the food-donation slots are usually unavailable during the holiday season, but in other months of the year, there are many open slots available for persons to donate.

I would advise organisations to put stricter guidelines and measures in place to protect their clients and recipients. Yes, they should be grateful for charitable donations, but donors should also be

genuine in their ability to support and help others.

I urge you all to be very mindful of your choices

this holiday season as you engage in charitable activities. It’s good to give, but more thought and aware-

ness should be taken into account, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals.

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THOUGHT FOR

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TODAY

I do like a little bit of butter on my br A.A. MILNE) (188 ea 2-1956) The King’d! s Breakfast

December 10 2023 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome dear friend. Informational materials such as maps and schedules are

directed at consumers to help them purchase or use a product or service to get them to some place. You too, might use these documents or materials to assess ideas and information for your inquiry projects.

But inquiry project success needs appropriate reading strategies to locate, extract and apply information accurately from print and non-print resources. Be advised to choose the most appropriate technology you can handle. Be wise.

Love you.

IMPROVING WRITING The Narrative Notes: 1) Sensory details: Sensory details refer to descriptions that include the senses of touch, sight, taste, sound, and smell. Remember not to use too many sensory words or details for it can overwhelm the reader and overshadow the pacing of the story. On the other hand, too few sensory details can hinder the reader from becoming engaged in the story.

2) Anecdote: An anecdote is a short, amusing or compelling story about a real incident or person, that helps a story or topic become more relatable and truer to life. Stories about our day that illustrate situations in our lives connect us with others through moments that can be shared.

Here is a story that you should appreciate for its simplicity and directness from start to finish.

Amy has impacted my life since the day I was born. We are very close, and she is my favourite aunt. I resemble her in many ways.

We both have caramel brown hair, sparkling brown eyes and cheerful smiles. My aunt is funny and sometimes seems less intelligent than she is. Once she made chocolate cupcakes for a party and for some unknown reason, she bent over to sniff them while they were still hot. The steam from the cupcakes scorched her nose. (I guess the smell of chocolate was too much for her to bear). This incident, along with others, earned her the affectionate nickname Ding Bat. That is one reason I like her, though, because she is just like me – smart, yet very “ditzy.” Amy influenced my own personality because I spent so much time with her when I was young. I loved having her as a babysitter because she would let me do anything, as long as it was safe. One time she taught me how to make paper snowflakes. I was not experienced with scissors and made several feeble attempts to cut on the gray lines she had traced onto white paper. I got so involved that I snipped my index finger with the

scissors. Tears began to dibble down my face and mix with the blood already on the paper. Amy carefully wrapped a bandage around my finger and helped me clean up the mess on the table. After we scrubbed the table, she told me a joke to make me laugh.

Amy is so easygoing and happy. She is also sincere and willing to forgive. Once, I accidentally broke a bunny figurine of hers by knocking it off the table. It broke into a million tiny, brown pieces on her floor.

She walked into the room and asked, “What happened here?” I tried to reply, but I choked up and tears came to my eyes. She wrapped her arms around me and said consolingly, “It’s okay. Everyone has accidents.”

People who have only seen the easygoing, humorous side of my aunt might not recognise this serious, compassionate side. Once, when I could not find my books and I wanted to read, she searched for two hours and returned with a stack of books. I just sat there stupefied at how generous and unselfish she was.

Now that I think about it, if it was not for Amy I might be a totally different person – and I like the way I am. I would not have her any other way because she is my aunt, simple and intelligent.

Something to Do 1. Read the first paragraph and underline the sentences which convey Brittany’s main impression of her aunt through sensory details and description.

2. How does the anecdote in paragraph two connect the reader closer to Brittany’s aunt?

3. Where is dialogue used in the story, and what personality of the aunt does it illustrate?

4. What is said in the conclusion that justifies the closeness between the two characters?

GRAMMAR What is the sentence saying?

Choose the sentence nearest in meaning to the original sentence.

1. Frank did not attend the awards ceremony because his wife, who had promised to accompany him, changed her mind at the last minute.

(A) At the last minute, Frank’s wife who had promised to accompany him to the awards ceremony, changed her mind, so he did not attend.

(B) Frank would have attended the awards ceremony if his wife had not changed her mind at the last minute as she had promised.

(C) Since Frank did not attend the awards ceremony, his wife changed her mind at the last minute, although she had promised to accompany him.

(D) At the last minute, Frank did not attend the awards ceremony, because his wife who had promised to accompany him had changed her mind.

2. At one time or another every one of us succumbs to the common cold.

(A) Very few of us will ever catch the cold.

(B) Some of us are sure to catch the cold.

(C) All of us eventually will contract the cold.

(D) All of us will be able to resist the cold eventually.

3. When Johnny returned from New York, his accent had changed, although he was there for only two months.

(A) Johnny’s accent had not changed for two months although he had returned from New York.

(B) Johnny changed his accent when he returned from New York, because he was only there for two months.

(C) Despite being in New York for only two months, Johnny’s accent had changed upon his return.

(D) For two months Johnny changed his accent when he returned from New York.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023

XXXIX

Got a sore throat?

UNDOUBTEDLY, we will all suffer from a sore throat at some time. But while this seems normal, the cause and evolution of the disease may vary quite a lot. Included in respiratory system disorders, the acute or chronic condition arises from causes such as infection, allergies, tumours and drug reactions.

Sore throat is usually a prominent symptom of a wide variety of diseases, among which are rheumatic, scarlet and relapsing fevers (a tick spreads the latter). Others include polio, tetanus, tonsillitis, vitamin B deficiency, and the dreaded COVID-19 virus.

What we commonly call the throat is the oropharynx, which is visible at the back of the mouth below the nasopharynx and above the larynx (voice box). Tonsils are spongy tissues at the back of the throat, composed mainly of lymphatic cells. There are three types. The palatine tonsils, usually referred to as the ‘tonsils’, are visible between the arches that extend from the uvula (bell-shaped structure at the centre of the opening), to the floor of the mouth.

Then there are the pharyngeal tonsils, often called the adenoids. These lie at the back of the throat. They generally shrink as a child grows, but may have to be surgically removed if they become enlarged and inflamed. The lingual tonsils are on the upper surface of each side of the back of the tongue.

The ‘tonsils’ function to protect the pharynx (common entrance of the gullet, nose and wind-pipe) and the rest of the body from infectious organisms (bacteria, fungi and viruses).

Infection of the tonsils, called tonsillitis, may be a source of infection elsewhere in the body. The tonsils form lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that produce antibodies. To combat harmful organisms trapped in the mucous membrane lining in the throat. In fact, the lymphocytic tissue circumscribing the throat actually represents the first line of defence against invading pathogens.

Let’s look at how the tonsils relate to the dreaded disease AIDS. In reality, the HIV is too frail to kill anyone. Most people who die from AIDS generally succumb as a result of either pneumocystis carini pneumonia or cancer. These situations develop because of the depletion of special white blood cells known as Tee Four Lymphocytes, which are responsible for providing immunity against aggressive germs.

The AIDS virus may also invade and kill the Tee Four Lymphocytes, leaving the body vulnerable. These protective cells are manufactured in the tonsils, bone marrow and spleen.

A sore throat that is not responding to conventional treatment may be gonorrhoea of the oropharynx contracted from oral sex. Also occurring sometimes is diphtheria, which begins gradually with fever, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the neck.

A thick, white membrane forms on the tonsils and may obstruct breathing, necessitating the surgical opening of the wind-pipe. Heart muscle and nerves may be affected, causing heart failure, paralysis and sometimes death.

The throat communicates with the middle ear, located behind the eardrums, using a passage called the Eustachian tube. This is why the pain of the ear infection is occasionally experienced when the victim has a cold. The typical complaint with a sore throat is a raw, dry, burning sensation and pain swallowing all cool substances, such as ice cream. If the infection spreads downwards to the larynx, hoarseness and temporary loss of voice may ensue.

Treatment for sore throat usually consists of adequate doses of penicillin, aspirin, rest and warm saline gargles.

XL

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 10, 2023