Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot Epaper 08 25 2019

Sunday, August 25, 2019 Guyanese designer Maxi Williams dressed in an elaborately designed ‘tall man’ costume for the Guyana Night of CARIFESTA XIV in Trinidad & Tobago (Vishani Ragobeer photo)

a n a y shines at u G

CARIFESTA XIV

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

‘But only God can make a Tree’

“Lean on Me”: Two trees over the South Road/Croal Street canal in Georgetown (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

By Francis Quamina Farrier

IN this August feature article, I invite you to join me and take a closer look at trees; not necessarily trees in Guyana’s vast forests, but trees closer to our daily activities.

Secondly, I have to commence this feature article with a disclaimer; I am not the author of that beautiful poem which was put to music, and which has some of the words which constitute the headline of this article.

Two lines from that poem are; “I know that I would never see, a poem lovely as a tree.

Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree” It is also necessary for me to state emphatically that it is my prerogative as to what activity I choose as a hobby; one which I enjoy immensely is doing FREE Poetry and Storytelling sessions at schools around Guyana.

I even did two such sessions while in Ghana

Tall and straight up. This tree seems to guard the river which is included in that song “Not A Blade of Grass” - the Pomeroon River in Region 2

last year during September and October. So instead of spending my remaining years on this planet bothering with every problem around the world, I much prefer to extract a few things which I could work on improving if I can. An interest in the well-being of trees is one of them. As such, I post a tree or trees on my Facebook page every week, which I call, “Thursday Tree”. Many positive responses are being received from near and far.

It is well established, that I love reading and performing poems to audiences; especially children. It is a hobby of mine which brings me much pleasure - as well as to my student and adult audiences. Poems are carefully chosen in terms of their themes and messages depending on the audiences when I select a school or other venue. One of my policies is to have at least one poem which was written by a poet from the town or village. At present, I am moving towards doing more poems about trees. However, “I know that I would never see, a poem lovely as a tree”.

During the past year, I have been posting

trees on my Facebook Page which I have entitled “Thursday Tree”, and have been receiving interesting and encouraging comments. I love poetry quite a lot. I also love trees, whether in the forest, in a park, or lining a roadway. As such, I have decided to throw the spotlight on some of my Thursday Trees in this feature article. There are many Golden Agers who can point to a tree and tell you that it was full-grown since they were children.

They sometimes speak as though that tree is an elder of theirs. A fine example is “The Big Tree” at Mocha on the East Bank Demerara.

That Big Tree is revered by the residents of Mocha. I once did a Poetry and Storytelling Session under that tree; even using the tree as a character in one of my stories. It was such fun. There is, of course, Half Way Tree which is located on the East Coast Public Road half-way between Georgetown and Rosignol. More recently that tree was a central character in a novel by Guyanese Folklorist, Roy Brummell.

Turn to page V►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

III

The Guyana National Steel Orchestra performing at the Queen’s Park Savannah

By Vishani Ragobeer

Guyana shines at CARIFESTA XIV

THE Caribbean Festival of Arts, better known as CARIFESTA, got underway on Friday, August 16 in Trinidad & Tobago and Guyana has been making its mark since the very first day of the massive cultural event.

CARIFESTA XIV got underway with a ‘Parade of Nations’ where all 20 participating country delegations marched around Trinidad’s famous Queen’s Park Savannah, before heading inside the Savannah for the official

opening ceremony. Here, the Guyanese delegation took over the streets of Trinidad by breaking out in an impromptu masquerade session and playing a few rounds of ‘Coloured Girl in the ring’ as the parade was marching along. After that opening day, Guyana participated in almost every section of CARIFESTA, including Drama, Dance, Visual Arts, the Culinary Arts, the Literary Arts, Masquerade, Song, Fashion and Arts and Craft.

The showcases brought by Guyana in the various performing arts integrated the best of Guyanese culture, traditions and talent. And

for the National Drama Company, the grand CARIFESTA platform was used to spotlight social topics like Domestic Violence, Unity and Environmental Conservation. There was also the National School of Music showing that while Trinidad might be the birthplace of steelpan, pan music has been growing (up) in Guyana.

Undoubtedly, however, the highlight of Guyana’s participation in CARIFESTA XIV was the Guyana Night presentation. As part of the 10-day festival, each country was given a night to showcase their culture and heritage.

For Guyana’s country night, the 100-strong delegation put on a performance entitled “Guyana: A Year in a day”.

Through this performance, the delegation showed the festivals and celebrations observed in Guyana during every month of the year, including Mashramani, Phagwah, Easter, Emancipation, Indigenous Heritage, Eid and Christmas.

Here are a few photos that best tell the story of Guyana’s participation at CARIFESTA XIV. Turn to page IV►►►

A visitor mesmerised by the Stabroek Market edifice constructed at the Queen’s Park Savannah as part of the CARIFESTA Grand Market

Guyanese playing “Coloured girl in the ring” during the Carifesta XIV parade of nations

Designs by local fashion designer Maxi Williams on display Guyana performing their “Guyana: A year in a day” presentation at the Guyana Night of CARIFESTA XIV (Vishani Ragobeer photos)

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

◄◄◄ From page III

The 100-strong Guyanese delegation proudly crossing the stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah at the Opening Ceremony of CARIFESTA XIV

Pepperpot being served at the Grand Market at the Queen’s Park Savannah Director of Sport, Christopher Jones joined Guyanese delegates in an impromptu masquerade session

Body Art done by the Bravo Arts team Members of the National Drama Company re-enacting the Tadja- an Islamic procession Guyanese Spoken Word Poet performing a piece on Domestic violence/ Violence against women at the Guyana Drama Showcase

The Indian Dance Delegation from Guyana broke out in an impromptu dance session with young people from various Caribbean countries during the Envision Youth village session of CARIFESTA XIV at the Bishop Anstey high school

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

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◄◄◄ From page II

Some trees like this one on Avenue of the Republic, in Georgetown, are rather curvy, and with twin trunks. (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

There are two very interesting trees in Georgetown which have a fundamental lesson for us. They span the eastern end of the canal which is sandwiched by South Road and Croal Street just south of the Office of the President. Both of those trees are at the edge of the canal - one at the northern side, the other at the southern side. They are exactly opposite each other and so when they began to fall, they actually fell on each other forming a sort of arch and after over five years, they have not ended up in the canal. They are the epitome of that beautiful song, “Lean on Me”.

The soil of Georgetown is different from the soil of the Pomeroon River banks. But I do not see trees on the Pomeroon River banks tumbling down all over the place as I see in the city of Georgetown. Washington DCbased businesswoman, Zena Stoll, who grew up on the Lower Pomeroon where she runs the Adel’s Tourist Resort, says, “We took care of the trees. They held the soil together, especially the Cruder trees.” It was a Pomeroon river culture. “Almost every landing had Cruder trees planted, and it is indeed very necessary to protect our river dams or embankments,” Zena Stoll concluded.

St. Lucia-based Sports Advisor to the Eastern Caribbean States, Joseph “Reds” Perreira, also grew up on the Pomeroon River.

“We planted Cruder and Coconut trees on the banks of the Pomeroon to hold the soil,” he said, pointing out that the roots of those trees hold the soil together and prevent river dams breaking away resulting in flooding.

So one has to conclude that trees flourish when they are growing in the most favourable soil for them and they are properly cared for, wherever that is necessary.

In more recent times, trees in Georgetown have collapsed on Carmichael Street, on Croal Street outside the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, within the compound of the St. Andrew’s Kirk, at the perimeter of Castellani House opposite the Ministry of the Presidency, as well as on Main Street, and other locations in the city. What I find amazing and also inspirational about the many trees on the banks of the Pomeroon River, is that although they are in soft soil, they are not tumbling down and collapsing on a regular basis like so many trees in the city.

Obviously, they are the right trees planted in the right soil. I like looking at trees and try to analyse them and whether they have any lessons for us. Kudos must be given to those wonderful folks who ensure that our Mangrove trees are protected since they protect us from floods caused by the collapse of river dams.

On my very first visit to New York City in 1969, I was the guest of a relative who lived on a street which I described as “Asphalt, Concrete and Bricks”; meaning the street of asphalt, the pavement of concrete and the buildings of bricks. There was absolutely no grass or trees; nothing green on that street. As a Guyanese country boy, that totally turned me off. However, in more recent years, that street and many others in New York City

Healthy fallen trees at High and Croal Streets, north side of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court

which were similar, have all gone green with rows and rows of beautiful trees planted in them. There are now massive tree-planting projects ongoing in many cities in the USA. It was just announced (August 2019) that 250 more trees will be planted on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The ongoing construction of the President Dwight Eisenhower Memorial in the USA Capital will include 130 trees. There are 21,000 trees in the capital city of the USA. A green revolution is now in progress not only in the USA but in many other developed countries which had previously decimated many of their forests. Sadly,

at this time, there are about 73,000 fires now burning in neighbouring Brazil, gobbling up millions of trees in that country’s valuable Rainforest, which is known as the “World’s Lungs”.

Trees are necessary and we can thank them for making our planet more liveable, especially as we encounter the negative effects of Climate Change. Yes, one can talk to trees and thank them for what they do to feed and protect humanity. I now end as the poem/song does; “Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree”.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

‘GT’ writers eager to create authentic Guyanese literature

Scott Ting A Kee and his book ‘Red Hibiscus’ at the Bocas Lit Fest at CARIFESTA XIV

By Vishani Ragobeer

DARYLL Goodchild, Scott Ting-A-Kee and Gabriella Mohamed are three young Guyanese writers on a valiant quest to create literature that is just authentic Guyanese goodness.

These three young writers have either used their life experiences and interactions,

Gabrielle Mohamed interacting with a patron at the Bocas Lit Fest at CARIFESTA XIV

history or their sheer imagination as their modelling clay to create books that were on display at the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) over the past 10 days.

Twenty-one-year-old Daryll had his self-published book “Krassin the River” which aimed to spotlight the plight of the people he calls the “Invisible Poor”.

“I began the book trying to spotlight the ordinary persons and what they go through every day that people don’t see. I call them

‘We the invisible poor’-- they are the normal working-class people,” the young author explained.

Daryll intended to present sober issues while crafting literature that was still fun and interactive. And his book was worth its salt since it was selected to represent Guyana at the Bocas Lit Fest at CARIFESTA. “At the Bocas Lit Fest, it’s like you truly live and breathe words and I’ve learnt so much from everyone [from different Caribbean countries],” he said.

And he now hopes to take this experience and encourage more Guyanese writers, or just persons thinking about writing, to take the leap of faith. According to him, writers in Guyana are told that they need “side jobs” to support their creative pursuits. At the same time, however, he stressed that that could lead to persons ‘losing their spark’ or their authenticity.

Ting-A-Kee, 25, realised that many persons of Chinese descent have lost touch with their history and have become more “eurocentric”. Added to that, he lamented that there is a dearth of Chinese literature in the Caribbean.

Scott’s book “Red Hibiscus” is a mixture of poetry and prose, history and fiction. The story is set in ancient China and features clairvoyant priests and priestesses who see that indentureship and colonialism may occur, and they attempt to stop this.

“In terms of Caribbean literature, most of the texts out there focus on the Afrocentric or the Indo centric experience or even some in the indigenous peoples, but you hardly find any that deal with the Chinese Indentureship experience,” the young man said.

And it was this lack of Chinese literature, and the loss of connection to Chinese history and culture, that prompted Scott to “fill the gap”. And so he wrote Red Hibiscus. This also led him to relearn and rediscover about his own Chinese heritage and he hopes that his work could inspire other Chinese to do the same.

“In terms of Caribbean culture, the Chinese adapted instead of holding onto their distinct culture. We lost more than the other groups,” Scott said. “So I want to inspire them- those of Chinese and Japanese descentto reconnect, to challenge received ideas and to go back to the past and rediscover parts of

Daryll Goodchild with his book ‘ Krassing the River’ at CARIFESTA XIV

themselves that they didn’t know existed.”

Aside from the exposure he gained for himself from CARIFESTA, he hoped that ultimately, he could also inspire other youth to join the creative industry.

Then there’s 26- year-old Gabrielle Mohamed; the rose among the thorns. Mohamed took two books to CARIFESTA; the first is a collection of plays called “Blackout Daze” and there is her collection of poetry (which she says is her baby) called “Is you madness nah me own”. The “Guyanese-ness” that the young woman brings is her emphasis on creole in her works. “The creole is important to me because it’s for my people back home [in Guyana],” she explained, “Any person, from any stature in society, could pick up [my books] and be able to relate to it.”

More than that, she uses her books to shed light on social issues in Guyana. Similar to Daryll, however, she does so with her own touch of imagination, incorporating elements of history, fiction and even folklore.

At CARIFESTA, she indicated that she wanted to create a connection with those other prolific writers so that she could develop her own writing. Beyond that, she disclosed that she wants to establish a “safe space” for young writers in Guyana so that they could be able to freely share their work and refine their craft at this space.

While their common interest to create authentic Guyanese literature is a common denominator among the trio, the other factor stringing them together is their hope to push for more support for the literary platform in Guyana. Mohamed pointed out that there are few opportunities for writers in Guyana to develop their craft. More than that, she and Goodchild- who both self-published their books- indicated that it is a bit difficult getting literary work ‘off the ground’.

Nevertheless, the two of them along with their partner in arms, Scott, hope that once home, they can help to push for increased opportunities.

On their own, they’ll be selling their books and trying to get more persons to connect. For now, their books are all available for purchase online at Amazon. The books will be sold at Austin’s bookstore as well.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

VII

A benevolent businessman

By Michel Outridge THOUGH businessman Audie Henriques has been doing a lot of good deeds, he generally prefers to stay out of the limelight due to his humble upbringing. But, thankful for his own successes, he has made a personal commitment of lending a helping hand to those in need.

Henriques told the Pepperpot Magazine that he grew up in Charlestown and always paid close attention to how benevolent his mother was to other people.

“Growing up I would see my mom about to eat two slices of bread and a cup of tea and if someone comes to ask for help, saying they are hungry she would take her meal and give it to that person and go to

(D’urban Backlands) because her little house was in a deplorable state.

Henriques also made a monetary contribution to the spouse of Kurt Duncan, who was fatally shot while trying to be a peacemaker in a heated row which erupted into a bar brawl in late July, this year. The money went towards Duncan’s funeral.

He is also contributing financially to a Linden student, who was placed at Queens College, a year ago but was unable to attend school because of financial difficulties. He is currently paying her transportation fees so that she can get to school.

Owner of GameXpress, Audie Henriques and his wife

the squatting area aback of the Chinese Embassy and he was touched by the living conditions of folks there.

He related though that one thing stayed with him- how clean the little house was and the children were disciplined and that is where he first met Garfield Dover, who was just 11 years old then.

“I was so impressed how mannerly this boy was and I pledged to help him in his studies right there because I knew they were decent people who just needed some assistance,” he stated.

At the time, Garfield Dover had just gotten his National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) results and was excited to attend St. Rose’s High School.

Henriques made a promise to support Dover for the entire five In this Mark Benschop photo, Audie’s son, years in high school, with books, Brandon Henriques makes a donation to Garfield transportation, and all the essenDover, who excelled at CSEC Examinations tials to his education and stood by that promise to date.

In fact, the businessman also provided the fees for Dover to sit 14 subjects bed after having a cup of water,” he said. at the Caribbean Secondary Education CertifHenriques related that he admired that icate (CSEC) exams and he has passed with trait in his mother to give the last of what ‘flying colours’. she had to others in need and told himself he Dover got nine Grade Ones, three Grade wanted to be like her when he grew up.

Twos and two Grade Threes. This bit of in“I am benevolent to children because I formation made Henriques very happy and he like them a lot and I know what it is having was so pleased with the boy’s performance, little or nothing at all… I wasn’t born with that he has further accepted the responsibility it, I just got lucky and I do a lot of things for of paying his University of Guyana (UG) fees people because I want to,” Henriques said. for four years. Dover’s mother Maria Henry He is the owner of the popular business told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is very GameXpress, located on North Road, Lacypleased with the assistance received from town- a business he established in 2005 but Henriques and his decision to continue helphad other businesses before that. ing her boy in his pursuit of tertiary education.

Henriques hosts a feeding programme The single parent related that her son is for 25 to 30 children and apart form that very happy about pursuing his studies and does a lot of behind the scene donations to has since expressed his gratitude to the busithe less fortunate and school children.“It is nessman. The woman stated that her son has my intention to help as many people as I can promised to do his best and will not disapespecially children, who have the potential point Henriques, who has been encouraging but simply cannot afford to pay the passage him to continue to excel. to get to school or buy books because I barely “Garfield is hoping to sit CAPE then he have a primary school education much less a will return to the University of Guyana to consecondary one and I know the value of being tinue in his studies as a medical student since educated, it can help take your family out of he wants to become a doctor,” Henry said. poverty and ultimately enhance the lives of your loved ones,” he said.

GOOD DEEDS Taking on responsibility When Henriques and Benschop first met Henriques stated that about five years Dover they had also pooled their resources ago he was invited by activist Mark Benand constructed a house for another resident, schop through his local foundation to visit Alexis Hardy, behind the Chinese Embassy

Henriques said that a lot of times he would put off things that his own children wanted just to help someone. He added that he had to be firm with his children but today, he is pleased he was like that because his daughter would like to set up an organisation to help the needy, that is, after completing her studies at UG. “Believe in yourself, no matter who, you are because you are unique and there is no one else like you and anything is possible and if we cooperate we can make the world a better place by lending a helping hand to those in genuine need,” he said.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Ice cream and custard all ready for sale

Packaged and ready for sale, Auntie’s ice cream and custard

Savour the flavour

‘Auntie’s Ice Cream and Custard‘ keeps tradition alive

By Wendella Davidson

GROWING up, Wendy Patricia July, now familiarly called `Sis Wendy’, was accustomed to seeing her mother and grandmother fussing around in the backyard of their family home at Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara on the weekends, as they made ice cream and black pudding for sale to selected customers.

As word got around about the mouth-watering homemade frozen dessert, however, this saw an increase in demand from a growing number of customers and the weekend business extended to other days of the week.

“There was always a steady order for ice cream- either a birthday party, a post-wedding affair, a special gathering or the popular ice-cream banquet- even though the preparation of this special delicacy was time-consuming,” Sis Wendy recalled during an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine.

The making of the homemade treat, she explained with a smile, entailed preparing a custard mixture using eggs, custard powder, sugar, water, spices and essence for flavour.

The water and spices are first placed on the fire and allowed to boil generously before the custard powder, the eggs, sugar to taste and essence are added. And, as the mixture thicke n s , it is constantly stirred to prevent it from b e coming lumpy or burnt.

More sugar or essence is added if required.

When the desired thickness of the substance is arrived at, the mixture is taken off the fire and put to cool, the woman explained.

The cusWendy Patricia July, also called `Sis Wendy’

tard is then placed in an aluminum tub inside a wooden ice-cream pail, after which ice was then packed in the space between the compartment and the pail and a generous amount of salt is sprinkled.

At this point, Sis Wendy said the job of her and siblings began as they took turns to continuously churn the pail until the custard is of a smooth and frozen texture. The process takes about an hour during which time more ice and salt are added, and it is these two (ice and salt) that apparently works the magic.

Family legacy By age five, and after repeatedly observing the process, Sis Wendy’s mother started allowing her to prepare the custard for making the ice cream. So when she grew older, had her own family and began making homemade ice-cream and custard blocks for her family, and subsequently offered the finished product for sale on a small scale, it was like carrying on a family legacy, she said.

As the business expanded she invested in the purchase of an electric ice cream maker and subsequently bought an additional one.

Sis Wendy, who served in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T)- working at the latter office for 26 years before retiring- can be considered as gifted when it comes to using her hands.

Busy woman The 61-year-old woman is also a seamstress who has outfitted several brides and has held contracts with several reputable companies sewing uniforms for their female staff, as well as, individual clients at several government ministries. She is also a caterer, so some of her weekends she are extremely busy with food preparation for weddings and other social engagements. For such occasions, she had had to recruit additional hands.

However, with Sis Wendy concentrating seriously on ministerial work at her church, Eccles Assemblies of God, where she is the head usher and also supervises the church’s feeding programme, Sis Wendy says she has somewhat scaled down on the sewing and even her personal catering business.

Meanwhile, she continues to focus on making ice cream which is marketed as ‘Auntie’s Ice Cream and Custard’, as she reiterated that she is continuing a family legacy. “Fresh homemade ice cream has a richness and smoothness

that is impossible to find with a store-bought option, once you have a good ice cream maker,” she boasted Sis Wendy delivers ice cream three to four days weekly and because of the demand, she has invested in a second, and much larger, electric churner to make her work much easier.

With the churners, much more of the finished product can be made in just 30 minutes. Her many clients are at government ministries, commercial banks, private companies and persons who place individual orders.

She noted that while some of her clients crave the old-fashion custard ice cream flavour, there are others who request other flavours, and for this, she uses local fruits such as sour-sop, pineapple, passion fruit and others. “They [the clients] make a request and I try my best to please them,” she added.

Recently she has started making local yogurt using fresh cow’s milk and local fruits but for just a few customers. “People are accustomed to strawberry in yogurt. I am

A batch of meals catered for an occasion

going local. I’m substituting the strawberry with our own local fruits. It’s an experiment and the response is encouraging,” she added.

Persons wishing to savour Sis Wendy’s homemade ice cream can contact her on 610-0279, 233-5814 or 500-3581.

Sis Wendy preparing the custard that is churned to produce the ice cream (Samuel Maughn photos)

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

The path to becoming a professional photographer

Noel Khan’s story

By Marissa V. Foster

NOEL Khan is an upcoming professional photographer from the ancient county of Berbice. He was raised and still lives in the small town of Rose Hall. The son of a cane cutter and a market vendor, he is proud of who he is and stressed that his parents did their best. They made much of what they could afford as his father struggled with substance abuse but he’s still a great father. Growing up in Rose Hall Town was

quite the challenge, but he admits that being the youngest of seven children, he did not endure the same hardship his older siblings endured.

However, Khan is aware of what it feels like to be in need but has always prided himself in having his own and working hard for a better life. After dropping out of high school he was unable to get a job but was still determined to help his family so he did odd jobs here and there.

Dropping out of high school was due to many factors but he also admits that he felt academia wasn’t for him.

His older sister Tracey Khan who has been in the media for almost 15 years is the driving force behind him being a photographer. After his unemployment for two years she encouraged him to dawn into it and become his own boss— there was no turning back after this.

Khan describes his journey thus far as being “beautiful” and he’s loving every minute of it. He can meet many new people, travel and see beauty and purpose through so many lenses and angles. It can be challenging at times as well because sometimes people do not see the true value in his work. He explained that other photographers experience the same thing and people do not want to compensate for it.

The work can be seasonal as well so he has to take it when it’s “in season.”

The inconsolable event of him losing his nephew was quite a challenge for him to journey through, Khan admitted.

He was at an age where he understood death and felt its pain but the circumstances surrounding his death made it even harder to get past. He has lost loved ones before like when he lost his grandmother and grandfather but he barely remembered these events. Khan thanks God every day for the loving and supportive family he has. God, prayers and time do make it easier as that was the most heartbreaking experience in his life.

He describes himself as being a very loving and fun person. He also loves to dance. He is quite out-going, brave, strong, hard-working and loves spending time with the people who matter the most— his family. A major accomplishment in life is being respected and recognised for his talent. He said that it feels good when people reach out to him and say, “I want to be a photographer just like you” or “your work inspired me” and

Berbice Photographer, Noel Khan

he surely feels amazed that his work can be an inspiration to others.

In the future, he hopes to own his very own state of the art studio for photography and videography in Berbice. He also wants to travel the world and show its beauty through his camera lens. He wants to be in a position where he can create employment and help other youths like himself who may be faced with similar situations. He sees it as an opportunity for them to enhance their quality of life.

His advice to young boys is, “Do not give up. Things will always get better. Believe in your self and Surround your self with people who drive and support your dreams and aspirations Stay focused on your goals and you will achieve it with hard work and determination. Seasons change so whatever bad you’re going through will come to an end. Do not fall into the temptations of the world.”

Noel Khan’s Photography

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

XI

‘Black is beautiful’ Designer using fashion to promote African beauty in there,” she said.

Though she has not yet launched her business officially, the feedback from her social media posts are very encouraging, and her business already started booming, she shared.

But the official launch is in the making, she said, and from there, “I see myself going international, getting my own website so people from all over the world can order and so on.”

Glenn also obtained a Diploma in Accounting from the University of Guyana and is preparing to read for her Bachelor’s from September.

A few pieces created by Kevonna Glenn, worn by some of her models at a recent fashion show

A male and female model outfitted by Kevonna Glenn

By Gabriella Chapman DISCRIMINATION against people of African descent has long been prevalent in society. So much so that some have lost their sense of identity, and pride in who they are.

This discrimination comes in many forms, some very subtle, but it still has a negative effect on the Afro- society.

Though this may seem like a national issue that the government and people in influential positions should commit to eradicating, the micro efforts of ordinary citizens are just as important, and if multiplied, can have a macro effect.

So much to say, the Pepperpot Magazine came across a social media page that has been, over the past few months, emphasising black empowerment, through fashion.

TWENTY-year-old Kevonna Glenn the force behind these beautiful creations and, in an interview, the young woman said that she has always been very passionate about her culture. That, paired with her love for fashion, she decided to use her skills to preserve the African culture, and encourage people, especially women of African descent, to love themselves for who they are.

“I don’t think that black folks get the recognition that they deserve, especially black women. I just feel like this is my time to transfer this energy. Because for me, when I wear

anything Afrocentric, I feel a sense of [pride], I feel like I’m representing something. So I want to transfer that energy to other young folks growing up and just give them that same confidence, and have them understand that we are great people and they ought to embrace that and be proud,” Glenn said.

She designs clothing, using African print fabric, and to advertise her pieces, Glenn would only use black models, predominantly dark-skinned ones.

When asked about that, Glenn said that she wants to send the message to every black girl, that they are beautiful regardless of what society may think or celebrate. And darkskinned girls, mostly, feel the discrimination given the fact that not many people deem them beautiful. “Recently I introduced a lighter skin model just to balance it off because we are all beautiful. But I focus more on the darker [models]because that’s where more negativity surrounds,” Glenn said.

And knowing that almost every girl loves fashion, she is using her fashion pieces to speak to black beauties and empower them to be confident in their dark skin.

Before the startup of her fashion business, which she has named ‘Melaninaire’, Glenn said that while growing up, she developed a passion to be more than just a regular person.

“I wanted to have something of substance to my name. It took some time for me to actually figure out what I wanted to do. But like I mentioned, my passion for culture and black excellence, and my love for fashion, I used that to my advantage and created Melaninaire in March of this year,” she said.

She advises that one should not settle to be mediocre, but rather, to discover their ability, and use it to be a great contributor to positive change in our society.

Even though the fashion industry is somewhat crowded in Guyana, given the emergence of several designers regularly, Glenn said that this is not a deterrent.

She said that it motivates her to be more creative, unique, and add her own flavour to her creations. In fact, the young woman said that she has a lot more to unlock, and will soon be expanding on her designs to Afrocentric, swimsuits, household pieces like bedsheets and more.

Glenn said she is also good at paintings, and that will be something that she will later add to her business. “I’m going to mix what I do and try to do other things in between, but I’m still going to put in that splash of African

Kevonna Glenn

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Young Guyanese artist on the path to success

By Hugh Mclean

MICHAEL Griffith is an artist who loves art and developed the love for it when he was just seven years old. According to Griffith, he developed this love for art because a relative who used to visit him frequently and expose him to drawing.

“He basically did doodles but it was the most inspirational thing that I have ever seen and it was then I fell in love with art,” said Griffith.

Griffith has been practising art professionally for about 10 years now.

He wanted to create and draw which encouraged him to follow up art. Griffith once worked as an art teacher a few years ago and he found that passing on the knowledge or being able to impact youths through art is an exuberating feeling.

Griffith graduated from the University of Guyana in 2017 at the top of his class, while he was also selected to be on the honour roll several times.

He also stated that he knew once he ventured into the field of Art, he would have ended up teaching or passing on the knowledge.

“This is the reason I started to teach,” Griffith posited also noting, “I wanted a place to showcase my art, since art is not a forefront of career choices in Guyana and since my wife [also] had a vision of her having her own art studio or at least be immersed in art.”

His wife, Karen Budhram, who also participates in the art studio, has her own creations but it is not a full-time career to her as it is to Griffith.

“I fall in love with the process of creating my art and moving on to the next part of my art. It can be really fulfilling,” he

A scene from one of Griffith’s recent workshops

said. “My favourite art form is drawing; I am more attached to digital and traditional drawing.”

Griffith hopes to hold his first Art exhibition before yearend and become integrated into Guyana’s society and that “Oxygen Arts”, his brand, becomes a name that is synonymous with art in Guyana.

Griffith also hopes that his business will grow and also hopes to move it to a more central area in the next few years.

He stated that he wishes that it can be one of the leading art studios in Guyana next to Castellani House.

Late in 2018, Griffith held a four-week drawing class for the children from the orphanage in his area. He recently completed some volunteer work at the Sophia Youth Detention Centre in the form of a painted mural.

“A few months before that my friend, an activist, Lina Free rapped up another mural at the Sophia Youth Centre,” he said.

The most recent class was a five-week programme where he felt a great sense of pride and success. This was based on the fact that during this time even he was surprised by the level of improvement in the children’s work.

Apart from that, his achievements include winning first prize at The National Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition on several occasions. He has represented Guyana at CARIFESTA and has also taken part in exhibitions both nationally and internationally.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

XIII

Fun at ‘Scrap Auto Works’ Meet Buddy, Fidel, Seon, Neal and Squash!

Scrap Auto Works at Lot 64 Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown

By Telesha Ramnarine

THERE is never a dull moment at Buddy’s workshop in Middle Road, La Penitence! The ‘fellas’ who work there are some of the most charming, professional, and funny characters that someone in ‘vehicle distress’ can ever come across.

The atmosphere at the workshop, located seven houses from the La Penitence Public Road, is one of hard work, competence, fun, excitement, jokes, and lots of jokes!

There’s Yagdeo Geer, who is well-known as ‘Buddy’ and the owner of the workshop which is called Scrap Auto Works. Buddy

“Since I know myself, I am in the workshop. I love my job,” he expressed. The workshop caters for all types of mechanical and electrical work, and may even do some bodywork occasionally.

Next, there’s Fidel Seemangal who is just as seasoned on the job as Buddy. Fidel ran a workshop in Evans Street, Charlestown before joining forces with Buddy as an auto electrician. About 18 years on the job, Fidel trained under another seasoned mechanic and worked with him for five years before starting his own business.

There’s nothing that Fidel puts his hands on that would not give you optimum service.

Yagdeo ‘Buddy’ Geer (right) with Squash and ‘Rasta Man’

carries himself quite professionally. At first glance, he comes across as very serious and simply into the work at hand. But spend a few hours at the workshop and your opinion may very well change! Buddy is just as funny and has as much fun on the job like everyone else.

He started as a mechanic at just 15 years old with his uncle who ran the business at the time. “This was always a workshop. I born and reached this shop here and I kept carrying on the name,” he told the Pepperpot Magazine, while he was in the middle of working on someone’s vehicle.

On one occasion, for instance, one of his customers was told by another mechanic that the alarm in her vehicle was no longer working and that she needed to install a new one. Fidel, though, checked with the old one and fixed it. That alarm continued to work just fine more than five years after.

“You wouldn’t regret the work that we do; that’s how good we are. You’re welcome to come and try us,” Fidel expressed.

Neal Browne, also known as ‘Rasta Man’, is another employee at the workshop who was a customer there, but who enjoyed his lime there so much to the point that he

started helping out Buddy whenever he was short on staff. Fourteen years later, and he is still very much on the job.

‘Rasta Man’ comes across as the most decent, mannerly individual who is serious about his job. He is often teased by the rest of the guys about his locks and how they fall and move when he is grooving to Indian music. But ‘Rasta Man’ takes his teasing gracefully, smiles, and agrees with all of his accusers.

Then there’s Seon Persaud, perhaps the youngest and coolest worker who is big on teasing and ‘rubbing’ others.

Though he’s only been on the job for a relatively short time, Seon is very efficient with his work. In fact, his superiors, Buddy and Fidel, often trust him with some of the most technical and important tasks.

Seon probably ‘rubs’ down his colleagues more than anyone else, followed of course by Fidel.

Lastly, there’s Ernest Shivrattan called ‘Squash.’ It is not clear why he was given that nickname, but Squash gets the most teasing. He doesn’t ever seem to mind, however. He’s always laughing when he gets ‘rubbed’ down and never seems to take anything personally. In fact, they all

Seon Persaud

seem to ignore what seems to be the most hostile, blunt, and embarrassing remarks thrown at them.

In short, life at the workshop seems like more fun than work!

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF MINT AND TULSI SOME weeks ago, this column dealt with folk remedies used in Guyana and particularly herbal folk remedies including tree barks. It was pointed out that little research and chemical analysis of the majority of folk remedies used in Guyana had so far been undertaken and though a herb or “bush” may contain a drug used to treat an ailment, the user does not know the quantity of the drug in the “bush” he or she is using. This results in the “bush” being helpful to some users but of no help to others. For example. some local herbalists may prescribe congo pump for diabetes but as far as we are aware, the cure effected by that bush has been almost nil.

Some herbalists and a few users of “bush medicines” contacted us and reminded us that there were some folk cures which Western Medicine had recognised. This was indeed true but the vast majority of

such recognised herbal remedies were included in ancient pharmacopoeias, especially the Ayurvedic. Among these, for example, were turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon and others. With these herbs which Western Medicine has recognised, there have been chemical analysis and the drugs they contain have been isolated. Turmeric, though not a prescription drug as yet, has been widely recognised and used for many types of ailments including cognitive deterioration (Dementia; Alzheimer’s) and as a painkiller. The four “herbs” mentioned above together with Mint and Tulsi (Sweet Basil) are well-known in Guyana and their medicinal usage is growing.

The literature on turmeric, ginger, cinnamon and garlic are quite voluminous but there is far less on Mint and Tulsi. Indeed, there is more on these two herbs in Ayurvedic than in Western writings. In this offering, we will highlight Mint and Tulsi.

There are 15 to 20 species of mint including spearmint and peppermint. In Guyana, the most common species used and grown is peppermint and research and analysis have been done on this plant. The main recognisable drug it contains is menthol. The oil extracted from the mint plant is used in toothpaste, gum, and a variety of beauty and other industrial products. Our focus will be primarily on its medicinal use and to a lesser extent on its culinary use.

Like Tulsi, Mint could be grown in plant pots, in the yard or gardens and they proliferate plentifully so there is no need to buy the imported product. They could be used both dried and fresh.

In Guyana, Mint has been used mostly for medicinal purposes and to a lesser extent for cooking. Mint tea has been used to treat colds and fevers and has often been combined with other herbs such as lemongrass or Toyo and its taste turns out to be quite pleasant. With its menthol, a natural aromatic decongestant, it is also able to break up phlegm and mucus and bring relief to colds and sore throat. It is also widely used in Chinese medicine in its peppermint extract form, an example being Shilling Oil and Tiger Balm, two popular products used externally.

Crushed in lukewarm water with a pinch of salt, it is used as a mouth wash and breath freshener. Strong mint tea is used as a pain reducer and could be crushed with a small amount of spirits and tied to the forehead to relieve headaches. Many would merely use

it in its peppermint oil form.

As a relief for gas and indigestion, flatulence and Irritable bowel syndrome, mint leaves and stems are often eaten or made into a very strong tea. As a treatment for calming insect bites, rashes and other such reactions crushed mint leaves mixed with a bit of coconut oil is applied to the affected skin.

Tulsi (sweet basil) has been in use for thousands of years and is an important Ayurvedic cure. It is used in Hindu religious ceremonies and is associated with Lord Vishnu, so regarded as a holy plant and has many spiritual traditions attached to it. Like Mint, it is used in cooking but they are the last ingredients placed in the food so that they would retain their taste and nutritional qualities.

It makes a tea which is used as a muscle relaxant, as an aid to digestion, to treat chronic pain, to protect heart and blood vessels and as a treatment for coughs and colds. It is an antioxidant and a natural antibiotic. It is used with oranges or lemons to make a drink as well as with ginger. It is used in various salads.

Tulsi and Mint are two herbs, two “bushes”, which Western Medicine now recognises and could be used with confidence since scientific research into them had been undertaken and they are never toxic. We would, therefore, reiterate that “bush medicines” should only be ingested if scientific research into them had been undertaken as in the case of Mint and Tulsi since this will eliminate any risk.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

XV

ocus F Patentia on the Village

A peaceful, budding community

NDC Councillor Saheid Khan

By Michel Outridge

THIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the community of Patentia, West Bank Demerara.

Patentia is a village of vast farmlands, lush rice fields, cattle, and poultry rearing, many roadside shops, bars and regular folks who work in and out of that community. The village houses the squatting area of ‘Skull City’ and the Old Patentia Housing Scheme known as Patentia West and a larger housing scheme called ‘Area L’.

The Pepperpot Magazine was ‘out and about’ in Patentia this week and spoke to some villagers about life in the village. Regarding the administrative works within the community, Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) Councillor Saheid Khan told the Pepperpot Magazine that the work of the NDC is satisfactory based on the resources at hand and over time they have had some development in the community.

Khan pointed out that the NDC has been consistent in clearing drains and canals in the community as well as taking away refuse such has grass and large debris from the parapets

of residents with an NDC-controlled tractor and trailer.

He reported that household waste is removed by Puran Brothers Waste Disposal Service weekly and residents pay for that service. Khan told the Pepperpot Magazine that there is the need for a dumpsite within the village since there is none and the old airstrip area has since been identified for dumping garbage. He added that Patentia West has 303 legal house lots but they have more houses because some people occupy the reserve- making up another 15 to 20 houses.

Khan stated that there are about five persons or more to a household, making it roughly about 523 persons in total that reside in Patentia West. The Councillor pointed out that Area L or ‘Skull City’ was regularised some time ago and there are about 50 house lots with about 325 residents there.

He related that the villagers in ‘Skull City’ take up a large part of the only cemetery

Patentia village

One of the newly paved streets in Patentia West

Patentia Secondary School located on Patentia Public Road (Samuel Maughn photos)

in Patentia, as such, there is a need for a new cemetery. He stated that a plot of land has been identified and plans are in-stream to relocate burials there.

Khan told the Pepperpot Magazine that the village is large in the sense that it has acres of privately-owned rice fields and farmlands and there is small scale farming in the community with mostly cash crops.

Patentia has a Masjid, a few churches and a Mandir as well as a nursery, a primary and a secondary schools within the village. “Patentia is a peaceful place that has a quiet stillness to it; a village that has potential and a village of people, who are mostly self-employed,” he said.

Khan added that some villagers work in offices in the city, while some have their own small businesses and others are elders, who have since retired.

“This place has good infrastructure in the sense it has good bridges, roads and drainage but we have had some flooding recently due to negligence- a koker was left opened,” he said.

He reported that the old wooden main bridge to the community was replaced with a concrete one and several small bridges were also constructed linking the village to the public road and some streets were re-paved and graded. Khan disclosed that originally the roads in the village were built in the 1960s by the Sugar Welfare Fund and have been maintained by central government to date.

He stated that it is known that Patentia is a low-lying village with one of the longest drainage canals with three kokers.

Khan stated that Patentia has become a haven for immigrants, adding that scores of Venezuelans have moved into the village and are renting houses.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Growth of a business

Nadira’s Supermarket (Samuel Maughn photos)

From a small shop to a large village supermarket

Employee re-stocking shelves of the supermarket in the community

By Michel Outridge

NADIRA’S Supermarket is the only large supermarket in the village and serves as a ‘one-stop’ shop, with everything under one roof from groceries to hardware. The establishment also employs eight persons, who are also villagers of Patentia West, West Bank Demerara.

Manager of the supermarket, Ruel Ramkishun told the Pepperpot Magazine that the business has been in existence for three years but they started from a small shop at a different location.

He stated that the family had the small shop at Third Street, Patentia West for 15 years before they were able to upgrade to the supermarket at the road front which has also become a meeting place for villagers.

“Having started from humble beginnings, from a small shop to this supermarket didn’t happen overnight but it included hard work and determination since it is a family business and we are aware of the struggles and our prices are unbeatable,” Ramkishun said.

He explained they have both full-time and part-time staff and they close from 13:00hrs for an hour or so to facilitate cleaning the place and restocking shelves.

Ramkishun added that villagers and even outsiders would visit the supermarket to make purchases.

“Business is fair in fact, ‘fair to cloudy with a few scattered showers’ and this kind of business is not fast but you

Supermarket Manager and Cashier

have to live one day at a time,” he said.

Ramkishun related that Patentia West is a quiet, countryside village that is close-knit and a place where everybody knows each other.

“I born and grow in this village and we have seen some development because a few years ago we had street lights installed in this community for the very first time and that was good. Our roads are maintained from time to time and the drains and canals are cleared [periodically] so things are happening here,” Ramkishun said.

Patentia businessman providing employment for young people

By Hugh McLean THIRTY three-years-old, Sean Gonsalves, who hails from Patentia, West Bank Demerara, worked for 12 years as a Supervisor on the Wales Sugar Estate to provide for himself and his family. After the sugar estate was closed down in 2018, Gonsalves was forced to resort to other means of income.

Gonsalves started off small with his Game Shop, which had one television and one console. “It took some time to develop but every day there was a new development”, posited Gonsalves.

Today his game shop has amounted to 10 consoles and 10 televisions.

He is an all-rounded person, who also does computer repairs, phone unlocking and also has a car wash.

Gonsalves has managed to keep these operations up and running for the past eight

Some of Gonsalves’ employees at his car wash

years. He also employs five youths in his day to day businesses.

He told the Pepper pot Magazine that he employs youths because he doesn’t want them to “wander” on the streets or get into

trouble. Among these young people, he said, includes University of Guyana students who work so that they can make money for passage and meals.

He also does steam cleaning and buff

and polish. He stated that over the weekends and holidays, he makes a higher profit than usual because when the children are out of school, they don’t have many recreational activities to turn to, so they come to his game shop a lot.

Although he has persons working for him, when the job gets tough, he also works to help them get it done faster. He wishes to cater for all ages and all types of people.

Gonsalves hopes to one day have everything that may satisfy his community in terms of recreational activities. “I would rather have a game shop than a bar because people can get very reckless when they are under the influence of alcohol,” explained Gonsalves.

Gonsalves started the wash bay after five years of establishing the game shop as a means of earning extra income to provide for himself and his family.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Vending as a way of life

XVII

Patentia vendors share the ups and downs of the trade

By Michel Outridge

GAITREE Loaknauth is a vendor of Patentia Village, West Bank Demerara. For the past 40 years, she has been occupying the same roadside stand where she sells vegetables and ground provisions.

and although it is not crowded residents come and support us to get their greens and whatever else is needed to make a meal,” she said.

The villager related that the community isn’t lacking development and people do what they have to provide for their families.

She stated that most people in the village have established their own businesses and are earning while others have jobs in other places.

Another vendor, Patentia West roadside vending Avinash Singh, who (Samuel Maughn photos) was once a sugar worker, has started a small business selling plucked The small market is located at the entrance of the village which has a few stalls and live chickens and eggs.

He pointed out that chicken is sourced on the tarmac which is within the village.

Loaknauth sells daily from 07:00hrs to from outside the village and he started that 11:30hrs and usually buys produce from vil- business about six months ago and so far, lage farmers or sources them from in the city. “things are picking up”.

Singh reported that he had to provide for “This is the market area in this village

Long-time vendor Gaitree Loaknauth.

his family and looked toward entrepreneurship as a result. “Being a vendor, one has to exercise patience and wait for customers and some days are slower than others but we make do,” he said.

Singh is one of many vendors that have small stands in Patentia West and spends most of the day at the stand.

Patentia West is home to a mixture of people of African and East Indian descent but has recently seen an influx of immigrants.

Residents told the Pepperpot Magazine that the Spanish people are willing to work and are doing so right within the village.

“These people are doing work our own local people don’t want to do and it shows they are willing even with the language barrier,” a villager said.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

XIX

FILES E S A C COURT

Wife killer found 10-year manslaughter sentence severe

By George Barclay

MANSLAUGHTER accused Kissoon Wazar Alli who stabbed his wife to death in 1967 and was sentenced to death after pleading guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter appealed against the sentence as severe.

But the Court of Appeal constituted by Chancellor E.V. Luckhoo, and Justices of Appeal Guya Persaud and P.A. Cummings dismissed the appeal and refused leave to appeal to the Privy Council.

The facts of the case disclosed that the appellant was indicted for murder, but following the Crown’s willingness to accept a plea to the lesser count of manslaughter, the trial judge permitted this to be done, although, on the depositions there was no indication of any circumstances to justify the acceptance of such a plea.

The appellant was sentenced to ten years imprisonment. In his plea to mitigation, counsel said inter alia that the appellant had suffered great mental anguish.

The appellant appealed on the ground that the trial judge had made no allowance in his sentence for the fact that he had pleaded guilty and had not contested any issue before the court.

The Appellate Court held (i) a plea of guilty does not necessarily mean that the prisoner genuinely regrets his act; ((ii) if a sentence appears to be proper and appropriate, it matters not that something was taken into account which ought not to have been or something was not taken into account which ought to have been. (iii) on the facts, as appeared in the depositions, there was little, if anything, the judgment said, to mitigate the crime which had been committed, and in any event, if there was remorse the judge’s memorandum of sentence showed that he must have had it in mind.

In his judgment, Chancellor Luckhoo noted that there is an application in this appeal for leave to appeal against sentence on the ground that judge failed to give adequate consideration to the appellant’s plea of guilty to manslaughter.

He was on a charge of murder when the court following the Crown’s willingness to accept that plea, permitted this to be done.

The appellant was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for what could well be described as a bestial and dastardly act in stabbing his reputed wife at least twice with a knife , which must have been at least 1 ½” in diameter, in the region of the heart and liver, puncturing the apex of the left ventricle, and the lobe of the liver.

The Chancellor went on to say that on the depositions the learned trial judge on the authority of R v Soanes {1948} 32 C.A.R. 136 would have been entitled to refuse to allow the appellant to plead guilty to manslaughter because there was no indication on the depo-

Appellate Court dismissed appeal

sition that circumstances existed to justify the acceptance of that plea.

In other words, no evidence appeared on the record from which it could be said that the deceased had done any act to the appellant which would and did cause in him a sudden and temporary loss of self-control rendering him so subject to passion as to make him for the moment not master of his mind.

The Chancellor recalled that Counsel for the appellant had cited the case of R. v. de Haan {1967} 3 All E.R. 618, as an authority for the contention that the trial judge had not made any allowance in his sentence for the fact that the appellant had pleaded guilty and had not contested any issue before the court.

He explained that there can be no doubt that credit can be given when a person does plead guilty to the fact that that person is facing up to realities and shows some signs of repentance to justify a reduction from what would otherwise have been the sentence.

The Chancellor went on to state “In this case the appellant had gone to his mother-inlaw. Seupallie, for lunch, during which he had imbibed a certain quantity of drink. The evidence reveals that three persons drank a quarter bottle of rum. After having his lunch he returned to his home with his wife and children.

“Seupallie was on her verandah not far from the appellant’s home when she heard talking. Presumably, there was a quarrel. She then saw her daughter go out on her verandah and the appellant followed her saying that he was going to kill her, whereupon she said to him “kill me nah.” He then plunged a knife into her body which Seupallie saw used more than once. Soon after the daughter fell to the floor and died. Seupallie shouted for help and one Paul Benjamin and another went to the scene.

“There was no evidence that the appellant’s wife had in any way provoked this grave attack on her. Paul Benjamin admitted that he took a piece of wood and he struck the appellant on his head to disarm him because at that point of time he had a cutlass in his hand.

The appellant gave up the cutlass and the knife and told people about the place that he had killed his wife and he wanted to be taken to the police station. At the police station, he repeated that statement – that he had killed his wife. He made a written statement to the police in which he said, “Ah stab she wid the knife pun she left side because Paul Benjamin, she brother lashed me with a Bellnah pan me head.”

“Paul Benjamin, on the evidence at the preliminary inquiry, was not at the appellant’s home at the time when he stabbed his wife. He went there afterwards”, the Chancellor said and asked “In this setting then, can this court say that that sentence of 10 years was exces-

sive? Or was it not an appropriate sentence?

“On the facts as appeared on the depositions, there was little, if anything in mitigation of this crime committed. The appellant had had the benefit of his plea to manslaughter accepted which was an extraordinary advantage in the circumstances. I will assume that there was genuine remorse. Surely, the trial judge must have had this in his mind when he said in his memorandum of sentence “Having agreed in all the circumstances of this case, the character of the defendant

and with the hope of effecting a reformation on the defendant…I imposed a sentence of 10 years.

“In any event, in this case, it is immaterial whether the appellant’s remorse did or did not enter into the judge’s consideration when imposing sentence, as the sentence on the facts was appropriate and a proper one.

“It is the judgment of this court then that the application for leave to appeal be refused. The appeal is dismissed and the conviction and sentence affirmed.”

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Tomi Adeyemi’s ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ DIVERSITY in science fiction and fantasy literature has long been an existing phenomenon, as well as one that has garnered controversy for its appearance in literature. While many cultures and religions, not rooted in the dominant white and Western faction, present elements of what can be regarded as science fiction and definite elements of fantasy as part of their entire construct (various African culture and the Hindu religion, for example) for thousands of years, the problem becomes noticeable when we observe the lack of minorities in

science fiction and fantasy within mainstream literature.

While this may be linked to the lack of opportunities throughout the years for writers of colour, there is no doubt that people of colour (POC) are not represented in the ways they should be represented in literature. A good example to observe all this has to do with the Harry Potter franchise, particularly the controversies that have emerged over the years, such as when the author, J.K. Rowling, used Native American beliefs and culture as part of the origins for animagi (people who

can turn themselves into animals) in the world of her movies, which further led to accusations of cultural appropriation against the author. A second example has to do with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a play and sequel to the series, where the casting of a black actress, Noma Dumezweni, as Hermione Granger, generated controversy from fans of the series, despite the fact that the character is described in ways that can be taken to mean that she is a person of colour. Another recent example involves the way in which Rowling has claimed that Albus Dumbledore is gay, but has not included any evidence of this in the books or movies. The point being made here is that people of colour and other groups are marginalised in the popular literature.

However, very recently, there has been a sudden increase in the attention given to the issue and there has been a rise in the production of work by people of colour, for people of colour. There is also a notable increase in LGBTQ+ writers, as well as writers from other groups that have long been marginalised.

This is not to say that the problem has been resolved, but rather that there is an awakening of sorts that is unfolding, that will eventually,

hopefully, solve the problems that plague us.

Regarding the canon of fantasy, the most notable example that expresses the rise in POC works by POC writers is reflected in the Nigerian-American writer, Tomi Adeyemi, and her novel, “Children of Blood and Bone” which became a New York Times Bestseller and was optioned for a film adaptation even before the book got published. Adeyemi’s writing is outstanding and on par with anything J.K. Rowling has ever written, creating a work of fantasy that is at once reminiscent of other works of fantasy that are dear to our heart, while also being a creation that is filled with originality and imagination. Most importantly are the messages in “Children of Blood and Bone” – with themes obviously meant to address race and oppression, as well as feminism and women in African societies, and colonisation. It is an awe-inspiring work that should be made essential reading for any child of colour (all children actually, but especially children of colour), especially those who are growing up in the contemporary world where #BlackLivesMatter, #OscarsTurn to page XXXIII ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

XXI

Battery mouth

2. Increased salivary secretion.

3. Burning or tingling sensation along the tongue.

4. Occasional nerve shocks and pulp sensitivity from connecting restorations or by connections made with a spoon or fork.

5. Pathological changes in the blood, kidney or organs or probably caused by absorption of ionised toxic metals.

6. Generalised discomfort THE amount of current produced in the mouth by having different metals intraorally would seem quite small. Such conditions are referred to by dentists as “battery mouth.”

But when you consider that your entire nervous system is managed by a very small electrical current, you would readily understand the significance. In fact, the five metals in amalgam (silver filling), when placed in saliva, could generate enough current to interfere with your brain or heart function. When you begin to realise the impact of even a subtle electrical charge on your nervous system, it is actually surprising that this link has remained so elusive.

A Scandinavian country banned amalgam fillings years ago and I stopped using it years ago as well.

Many of the problems I see in my patients are related to electrical currents caused by dissimilar metals in the mouth.

Any chemical engineer can tell you that when you put two different metals together in a salt solution, metals act as a battery, and depending upon which metals you combine, the amount of electricity generated can vary.

Every action you take, every thought you have is propelled into bodily function by tiny electrical impulses jumping across the synapses in your nervous system and across cell membranes. These electrical messages are actually a form of language that the nervous system decodes and relays, for example, from your brain to your hand. Some of these are conscious, like when you decide to turn the pages of a book.

Every hour, billions of electrical impulses create an automatic messaging system that keeps your body functioning as a highly sophisticated series of processes. Everything from the production of blood cells to the rate at which your bones deteriorate is controlled by the network of electrical impulses in the nervous system. The electrical ‘messages’ emanating from the metals in your mouth may be in disharmony and interfere with your normal electrical signals and it should hardly seem remarkable that this current could make you ill. So, whenever patients attend my clinic complaining of a tooth that “shocks”, I first check for dissimilar intra-oral metals if dental work was done recently.

Studies from Europe indicate that is considered acceptable for teeth to emit electricity below 100 millivolts and three microamps. Many of my patients’ fillings exceed the norms, especially when gold or other metals are in the mouth along with amalgams.

In my experience, excess current floating around your body can have a very serious impact. Because the current flows through the path of least resistance, it is very difficult to predict the effects, or where the resulting problems will occur. Diagnosing the impact is difficult, and a lot of research is needed in this area. But interestingly, more than 50 years ago, the American Dental Association journal included studies about systemic effects of these galvanic currents. The article noted the symptoms of galvanism as being: 1. Metallic or salty taste.

in the mouth, irritability, indigestion, loss of weight, and in some cases, reflex radiating neurologic pains through branches of the fifth trigeminal nerve.

When I see a problem clear up instantaneously or within a few hours, then I can logically assume it was electrical in nature. Mercury does not leave the body quickly. At least half of the improvements reported to me by my patients fall into this category. When 60 Minutes did a story some time ago about dental amalgams, one of the people interviewed described how she got out of her wheelchair in a few hours. The ADA said this could not have happened so quickly if she had been mercury toxic. In any event, your dentist should evaluate and advise you when you permanently have different metals in your simultaneously.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

THE HISTORICAL SUBVENTION TOWARDS CULTURAL INDUSTRIES Part III Expanding the realisation of the new businesses niche

THIS article is directed to citizens with ideas and skills that may seem ignored and invisible except for the encouragement of some of our peers, but could not identify a life-changing audience to conduct a meaningful discourse. We must understand that process exists, but it must be lobbied for into functional existence. In local Industrial and IT as well as the Arts there is no scout policy for the identifying of homegrown innovation towards joint development with any state apparatus, executed on a template of Trademark, Patents and any form of Intellectual Rights inclusive. It just doesn’t exist; in fact, there has never been, though I stand to be corrected.

In the colonial era, as with all colonial systems, manufacturing, religion, values and education were the sacred duty and craft of the Coloniser. The politics of today are a great case study of the post-colonial ‘Brain Drain’ experience resulting with our current most affluent expertise in the loudest forefront of the post ‘No Confidence Suspicious Motion’ (NCSM) national stage. The NCSM hounded APNU-AFC administration is not perfect, but in comparison, it has excelled in repairing a damaged nation. it has done in four years what lay in decay for almost 20 years before its term. What this means is that since none of the opposing actors on the opposition stage have said or proposed nothing but the usual political ‘stock’ criticism from as far back as 1961, without any ideas or perspectives that can relate to what the topic and interests of this article are about, our livelihoods, mechanisms to realise our

practical dreams, then we must look to them for nothing. They have nothing in our interests to offer. Their sole objective is the power of public office and access to public finance, and to repudiate the laws that impede money laundering, demanding fiscal clarity and adherence to laws that were once flaunted through Political-Criminal allegiance. The objective of this article is to address the public consciousness towards the freeing from the dungeons of not knowing our talents and skills fettered by administrative indifference and lack of vision in crucial areas.

Politics and its negative nature of politricks will always be with us. There will always be people who are con-men and women at a formal level, even bringing some gifts, which are cheap bribes. If you’ve read the literature you will understand the concept of ‘Beware of Greeks bearing gifts’ with respect to the Trojan Horse trickery and fatal ruse.

We live in a time when the world is changing fast, and change is always unapologetic. Because of administrative errors, bad customs in practice and social traditions many Guyanese are semi-literate and illiterate. The whys are to be discussed but the greater volume of the conversation must rest with salvaging the vulnerable, thus the Cultural Industries initiative in its expansion becomes relevant.

There are those with skills and talents, who lack avenues to remedy their social conditions. They are of all ages and across the gender bar. The inherited social condition is a crucial factor in respect to ascending the veritable crab barrel. The ‘crab barrel’ is what it is because of a collapse of the lack of initia-

tives entertained outside of the box. A youth was arrested recently for stealing; he said he stole because he was hungry. I don’t doubt him. There was a time, now gone forever when he would have by social instinct gone down by the waterfront seeking ‘boy-wuk’ and most likely gotten it.

Talent and skill are imbedded in us by God or nature as a back up when manmade social echelons fossilised into traditions shake and crumble. We have had those rumblings continuously, from- The 1973-79 Oil crises, the fall and loss of our bauxite and other mineral prices over the decades. The fluctuating fortunes of sugar throughout its long history in Guyana. Today we face a threat from an even more formidable foe: the crisis of ‘Technology’ the demand increase on our income, both commercial and domestic, because of our new master-servantt relationship with ‘tech’. Where we are is debatable,- the demand to read labels and product booklets and to have a basic IT awareness gene has been activated. This is where Cultural Industries come in, not to undo, but to assist. Of course, legal procedures that do not now exist will have to be enshrined in the expansion of talent-driven economic processes. Economic processes that will see proverbial underdogs emerge within a new shield of protective legal guides, much like the Cultural Industries subvention; a reality for the first time in our modern history say, from 1900 to 2019.

I have outlined in the past two weeks’ articles, the competitive challenges that the Cultural Industries will pose to practitioners because you’re not buying and selling,

you’re creating to compete, a new way of thinking must prevail, and the aptitude to follow the market consciousness around you as it unfolds. The subvention must be looked at from a holistic perspective. I proceeded to knock at doors based on an engagement with the now diseased Derrick Bernard back in 1992. The only person at that time say from 2010 when I picked it up again was Burchmore Simon of Kross Kolours who I could call upon to come to a meeting or put together a document. Most gave up before trying, then why try? Most of the genuine persons who live by their talents did not even apply in 2019.

The late Odeen Ishmael wrote a sterling article as the PPP’S ambassador to Venezuela on the growth of Cultural Industries in Latin America and the Caribbean- strangely enough, in Kaieteur News, December 6, 2009, and not the Government’s paper. I also regret the fact that Dennis Ward ‘Bage’ a crusader for Copyright legislation passed on before the Subvention he doubted that would ever happen made its historical entrance.

Al Creighton did a review on Mahadeo Shivraj’s efforts to bend ears to towards support for a local film Industry. The article- Stabroek June 27, 2010 - did not say if he got anyone to listen. The world is changing fast; by 2022 the TV Industry will just not be the same, as my buddy Leslie dramatically informed me the only local content on TV in Guyana is ‘Death Announcement’. However, the conversation has begun...

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

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Epilepsy and Seizure Education Do not hold the person down or try to stop them from moving. Do not put anything in their mouth. There was a popular myth about putting a spoon in someone’s mouth when a seizure occurs but this is quite dangerous as it can cause injury to the teeth or jaw.

It is a myth that they may swallow their own tongue. Do not try to give mouth to mouth CPR and do not give them any food or water until they are fully alert again.

I WAS having a conversation the other day when someone told me they were in the presence of someone having a seizure and was unsure of what to do. I soon realised that I would be in the same predicament so I did some research and thought I would share it with you all.

Epilepsy and seizures are quite common in Guyana and an attack can happen anywhere, at any time so I think it beneficial that we all have a basic understanding of what is happening and what should be done.

Around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally. It is a central nervous system (neurological) disorder which occurs as a result of abnormal electrical activity originating in the brain. Basically, brain cells communicate by sending signals in a systematic and organised pattern. However, in those with epilepsy, these electric signals become abnormal, giving rise to something called an ‘electrical storm’ which results in seizures.

Seizures are abnormal movements or behaviours which are due to this unusual electrical activity in the brain. They result in unusual behaviours and sensations where most lose awareness during the episode. Seizure symptoms vary widely but include falling, blank staring, jerking movements of the arms of legs, shaking of the body, issues breathing, and loss of bowel or bladder control. They are not typically able to respond to any cues around them. There are also many additional complications which can occur with seizures such as car accidents, drowning and a wide variety of bodily injuries.

Many different types of seizures fall into even more categories, which is why it is advised to seek medical attention immediately after. However, not everyone who has

seizures has epilepsy. These Non-epileptic seizures (called pseudoseizures) are not due to abnormal brain activity but can be caused by psychological trauma or stress, low or high blood sugar, high fevers or alcohol and drug abuse and withdrawal.

The causes of epilepsy vary from genetic influence (runs in the family with specific genes), head trauma, brain conditions such as tumours or strokes, infectious diseases such as meningitis or AIDS and developmental disorders such as autism.

Treatment usually takes the form of medication prescribed by a health care provider.

If you have experienced what you think are seizures, it is advised that you visit your nearest health care centre.

Here are the things you should do if someone around you is having a seizure. It’s frightening, yes but remember they aren’t life-threatening and stop on their own with no permanent ill effects.

Immediate medical attention is only necessary if it is the first-ever seizure if a seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if there are repeated seizures in a short space of time, if the individual has trouble breathing after or if the individual has an existing health condition such as heart disease or is pregnant.

You can ease the person on to the floor and gently put them on their side- this helps them to better breathe. Clear the area around them, especially move anything that can cause injury. You can put something soft under their head and remove anything they may be wearing such as glasses or hats. Time the length of the seizure. Stay with the person until the seizure ends and they have regained full awareness. Be calm during and after the seizure.

There really isn’t much else you can do, what’s important is what you do NOT do.

I hope you all will pass this important information along so that many people more will know what to do in the presence of a seizure, for the safety of the individual.

Thank you for reading and please continue to write in to caitlinvieira@gmail.com and let me know what you would like to talk about.

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

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

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‘One Caribbean’

I HEARD the ‘One Caribbean’ slogan so many times during the first few days of CARIFESTA, and I thought about how clichéd it sounded. For the most part, it’s still a very clichéd slogan, but it is also one that is legitimately reflective of the shared culture across the Caribbean.

As part of CARIFESTA XIV which began on August 16 and ends on August 26 in Trinidad & Tobago, there was a festival in Arima that specifically focused on Indigenous Peoples of the Caribbean. Member of Guyana’s contingent here, Ingrid Devair commented that this indigenous festival was one which allowed indigenous people to share a space and celebrate each other.

More than that, she acknowledged that there are both instances of shared culture and varying cultures.

And she hoped that she could take some of the cultural presentations and practices from the Caribbean to her village of Orealla.

Then, I was down in San

Fernando, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA) for a country by country cultural showcase. The night I was there, there were displays from Guyana, Anguilla, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda. Naturally, the performances were all very well done, and they each made you want to experience it back in the home country (as expected, right?

It’s CARIFESTA after all). More than the cultural showcase, however, here was one of those instances where that ‘One Caribbean’ slogan came to the fore.

In SAPA, I sat next to a Trinidadian family who kindly kept my company and tolerated the constant flickering of my camera’s shutter. When the masqueraders from St. Kitts and Nevis took to the stage, I was pleasantly surprised because their antics were quite similar to the (in)famous GT masqueraders at Christmas time. They danced around in a circle to the beat of the drums and the tune of a flute. Sounds famil-

iar, right? Added to that, the aged Trinidadian man sitting next to me pointed out that the masquerade was similar to the traditional ‘mas’ done

by Trinidadians during the carnival season, years ago.

For context, masquerade and the Caribbean carnival experience has its genesis in the days of enslavement.

While the colonial whites would have their ‘high class’

festivities, the enslaved Africans developed a new culture using that European framework and adding their own culture to it. Years later, this plantation experience is a widely celebrated part of our culture- across the Caribbean.

At the youth village as well, the Indian Dance troupe representing Guyana did a small performance after which they did a freestyle

dance to tassa drums. The beautiful part of this performance, for me, was when they left the stage and went into the audience in an attempt to get the youth to join in the freestyle. Guyana’s dancers and youth from Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada formed a circle in the auditorium and took turns showing dance moves from the countries.

Our love for drums is also another shared bit of culture that Caribbean countries have drawn from that plantation culture. In some countries like Guyana and Trinidad, where there is a strong East Indian presence, you would find the influence of drums there as well.

Now, when the Guyanese dancers left for the changing room, an impromptu dance session broke out in the auditorium where the young people were trying out popular dances moves from Jamaica (‘genna bounce’ and ‘fling yuh shoulder’).

This leads to my own experience with the Jamai-

cans which has been the deeply personal affirmation of the One Caribbean mantra. For CARIFESTA, I am not staying with the rest of the Guyanese delegation, but somewhere much closer to the Queen’s Park Savannah (the central hub for the 10day festival) with a handful of Jamaicans.

My first night here, I was a bit hesitant about being on my own (it is well known that Trinidad is not the safest place right now) and faring for the short while. But to say the least, those Jamaicans became my best friends during that time. Each night, they made sure this little Guyanese girl was getting home safe (they took me home with them!).

And throughout my entire CARIFESTA experience, I remembered what one of those very Jamaican friends said to me on the very first night. She said, “You might be cute and yuh hair straight and me got locs, but all ah we is one blood. We is one family in the Caribbean.”

Modelling her way to success IT takes courage to take a stage and impress an audience with your beauty, style, elegance and intelligence.

Although she hasn’t taken the stage as yet, 20-year-old Dharshanie Mangra has a deep passion for modelling.

“Growing up I always loved anything that concerned modelling and today I’m a model with the Image Model Management Agency,” said Mangra.

The young model, who works for the Guyana Post Office Corporation, said she’s on the path to living her dream and becoming successful.

Five years down the line, Mangra

sees herself becoming a professional model who will represent her country.

One day, during her journey to success, she aspires to have her own fashion business. She also aims to help others and help her country grow and develop.

“One of my intentions is to help young people realise the talent they have in them. I want to bring out the best in everyone that needs this. I also definitely see myself making my parents and my country proud,” she said.

She stressed the point that she wants to become a successful busi-

nesswoman and make her parents proud.

“Getting where I want to be won’t be easy, but my motivation is myself and my parents and a lot of supporters out there, but what motivates me more is the confidence that I have in myself and the faith I put in my lord,” said the young model.

For those who have similar aspirations, Mangra said never give up on your dreams and ensure that you work hard. She said there is no rush, take life one step at a time, but keep your goal in mind.

Dharshanie Mangra

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

The road to first oil

PRESIDENT David Granger has termed Guyana’s next ten years as the ‘Decade of Development’. While our country’s traditional sectors will continue to grow and thrive, the ‘Decade of Development’

many attempts ended with little success. This set this stage for American oil giant, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited’s (ExxonMobil) oil and gas exploration in Guyana in 2008, leading to its US$460M

The Liza Destiny

Guyana’s oil and gas revenues. This, he said, is for the betterment of future generations of Guyanese.

“Oil production is expected to begin in 2020 and will be the most transformative

Dr. Mark Bynoe, Director of the Department of Energy, Ministry of the Presidency

economic development in our recent history.

Your Government is taking steps to ensure that the revenues which accrue from the sector will not be squandered but, instead, will be invested strategically in building human and institutional capacity, addressing our infrastructural deficit and providing economic security for future generations,” he said.

THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Dr. Mark Bynoe, Director of the Department of Energy, has, for the past year, committed himself to the transparent management of the Department. Under his stewardship, the Department has conducted several outreaches across Guyana to help Guyanese gain knowledge about the emerging industry.

“The Department’s vision is to optimise the value proposition from the hydrocarbon sector in the Cooperative Republic [of Guyana] to allow the country to transition to cleaner, more affordable and reliable energy

is largely owed to Guyana’s emerging oil sector, the revenues of which will fuel the country’s development for the next decade and beyond.

This edition of Government in Action is part one of a three-part series focusing on Guyana’s developing oil and gas sector.

A BRIEF HISTORY While Guyana’s oil and gas sector seems to be evolving quickly now, Guyana’s first discoveries of the black gold date back to the 1750s. According to a press release from Oil Now, the first petroliferous occurrences, or indications of oil in Guyana, were recorded

by Dutch explorers.

However, drilling, by Nelson Cannon, for Guyana’s first exploration wells did not begin until the 1900s. Even then, Nelson Cannon drilled only in Waini, in 1916, and later on in the West Coast of Berbice, in 1926. The gas and pitch discovered there were used for domestic purposes.

The years passed and many companies from around the world expressed interest in petroleum exploration in Guyana, although

world-class Liza discovery in 2015.

The petroleum potential of the Guyana-Suriname basin continues to baffle industry professionals today. The estimated 13.6 billion barrels of oil and 32 trillion cubic feet of natural gas truly redefines ‘Guyana El Dorado’.

FIRST OIL 2020 In his address to Parliament on October 18, 2018, President Granger outlined the mandate for the Department of Energy, which is tasked with managing the country’s petroleum sector.

“Your Government is developing the capability to effectively manage the oil and gas sector. We established, on the 1st August 2018, a Department of Energy to ensure that a sound organisational, administrative, legislative and regulatory framework would be put in place for the management of the sector in accordance with international best practice.

The ‘Department’, whose remit includes renewable energy has commenced its work,” the Head of State said.

The President added that the Government is committed to the prudent management of

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger commissions and tours the ‘Liza Destiny’, the first in a series of Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels for Guyana at the Keppel Shipyard in Singapore. The vessel departed Singapore in July and is expected to arrive in Guyana in September to prepare for the commencement of oil production by the first quarter of 2020

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

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Director of the Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe presents the winner of the Logo Competition, Ms. Abiola Lewis with her trophy

tractual agreement between released the PSAs for Esso Exploration and the Government of Guyana Production Guyana Limited, CGX Energy, and an oil exploration com- and Ratio Energy Limited.

pany. This agreement govFLOATING PRODUCTION STORAGE erns the amount of extracted These students posed their questions to Director, Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe and Council AND OFFLOADING UNIT oil Guyana will receive from for Technical and Vocational Educational Training (CTVET) Director, Mr. Floyd Scott at the close of Tullow Oil and ExxonMobil have both the companies. the Department of Energy’s interaction on Oil and Gas at the Government Technical Institute The Department has made offshore oil discoveries, with Tullow created a best practice PSA recently making its first while Exxon has provisions and a sustainable development “[The] Local Content Policy final draft pathway… What we are expected to do is to is completed and is to be presented… to the template, which will be used to inform future made a staggering 13 discoveries since 2015. manage the sector in a manner no different private sector and other relevant stakehold- negotiations. At a press conference held on With these massive oil finds, Guyana eagerly from what should be happening in Forestry ers. Presently, more than 1100 Guyanese are July 29, 2019, Dr. Bynoe said the Department awaits the arrival of the first floating producor Mining, or the water sector, or any other… working with [Esso Exploration and Prothe benefits that are derived therefrom can duction Guyana Limited (EEPGL)] and its be used for the betterment of all Guyana and subcontractors, representing approximately Ms. Lewis’ winning design for the Guyanese,” Dr. Bynoe said.

50 per cent of the workforce within the inDepartment of Energy’s Logo Although Guyana has had a long history dustry,” Dr. Bynoe said. with oil and gas, the Government of Guyana The Energy Director added that “EEPGL is still relatively new to the management of is working with the Council for the Technical this sector. Shortly after establishment, the Vocational Education and Training on impleDepartment of Energy hired Oil and Gas menting two pilots to build capacity within Adviser, Matthew Wilks to help inform its the technical institutions. Furthermore, since evidence-based decision making.

2015 over $119,000,000 have been spent

by the EEPGL and its subcontractors on LOCAL CONTENT Guyanese contractors and service providers.

One major public concern the Department The Department continues to seek to ensure has addressed is the importance of a thorough that… the sector is managed in an effective Local Content Policy. Local Content, in this and efficient manner and will spare no effort instance, refers to the development of a local in ensuring that Guyanese are able to optimise workforce that is educated and equipped to the value from these resources.” confidently function within the oil and gas

stands ready to review the best practice PSA tion storage and offloading (FPSO) unit, a sector. This particular policy ensures that, PRODUCTION SHARING template after a process of thorough consul- vessel named Liza Destiny. while the industry is dominated by foreign oil AGREEMENTS The FPSO is essentially a large ship exploration companies, Guyanese will still be A Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), tation.

Thus far, the Government of Guyana has capable of storing and processing crude hyan integral part of Guyana’s oil production. in the hydrocarbon industry, refers to a condrocarbons. First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, in June of this year, commissioned the Liza Destiny before it set sail from Singapore.

The FPSO is expected to arrive in Guyana’s waters by August month-end. Her arrival will mark a major milestone on the road to first oil.

“In preparation for first oil, as many of you would be aware, the naming ceremony of the Liza Destiny occurred on June 22nd in Singapore. The ship… [is] currently projected to arrive in Guyanese water in the first week of September of 2019. Now you would not that this is about two weeks ahead of initial projections and that’s because of the sea conditions, which are pretty favourable. In fact, the latest indications are that the ship had docked in South Africa to change crew and then to proceed on to Port Georgetown.

On arrival, the operations will be to moor and anchor the vessel with off-shore hook-up and start-up of water projection lines, production umbilicals, and first oil still being anticipated in Q1 of 2020,” Dr. Bynoe said.

Guyanese, the time is now. In countries around the world, Guyana is quickly becoming known as ‘the place to be’. The Department of Energy and the Government of Guyana encourage you to get educated, get involved, and prime yourselves for the start of Guyana’s ‘Decade of Development’.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

NAREI’s Plant Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Department THIS week NAREI in Focus will highlight the Plant Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Department. This department was created to enhance crop productivity through innovative research in plant biotechnology and on plant genetic resources. Additionally, devise new strategies for the conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

WHAT ARE OUR OBJECTIVES? * Collect plant genetic resources, identify threatened species, and establish manageable depositories for their security * Implement a plant genetic resources management system to rationalise and standardise a procedure for cross-departmental

channelling of plant genetic resources, management of gene bank depositories, and warehousing of data generated from applied research. * Apply basic- and intermediate-level molecular techniques to plant DNA forensic and diagnostic research, and to the genetic characterisation and evaluation of some important crop and crop-related plant genetic resources. * Develop standardised field techniques, procedures and protocols for genetic refinement and enhancement of crop species. * Develop field procedures and protocols for field crop-depository maintenance, re-

generation, and contamination prevention and control. * Advise on procedures for the

movement of high-risk species subject to phytosanitary and environmental regulations, as well as on the introduction of exotic crop species; inclusive of components and derivatives of artificially modified organisms. * Improve the efficiency of plant tissue culture protocols to supply a high quality of tissue-cultured ‘seed clones’ to sustain farmer-managed secondary clonal ‘seed’

WHAT ARE SOME OF OUR PROJECTS? * Multiplication of BSD resistant plantain cultures from CARDI for field testing.

* Germplasm collection of ex situ and in vitro storage of domestic cassava and wild relatives. * Optimisation of a protocol for micropropagation of pineapple plants. * Strengthening tissue culture laboratory structures for the production of tissue culture materials in Guyana. * In vitro micropropagation of quality sweet potato propagules.

HOW CAN THIS DEPARTMENT HELP YOU? * Provide disease free and resistant planting materials to farmers for cultivation. * Provide farmers with high yielding varieties of plantain, sweet potato, pineapple, cassava and coconut plants.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

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Artists, the voice of the people IN my last column: CARIFESTA, The festival that awakens regional identity, I spoke briefly about the responsibility of the artist in documenting the history and making statements that represent the people within the society in which they live. I recently visited the art exhibition of the final year graduates of the E.R. Burrowes School of Art where young artist Alyce Cameron’s work spoke volumes. I was especially

entities whose hands are already in the barrel and would appear to be taking the majority of what is deemed to be ours, leaving us with a meagre five percent that the artist portrays as the smaller barrel of oil in the foreground of the painting. Politics plays an integral part in the painting as the artist chooses to represent the two major political parties of the country in the middle ground of the painting. She decided to use three bold colours in the shape of an arch around the hands to represent the promise. A promise made to Guyanese of a good future for all. A promise we are yet to see bear fruit.

FOR THE PEOPLE Alyce recalled that as a young girl she was often faced with cruel comments about her ethnicity. Questions were asked about things that would seem odd to explain, such as her hair texture and her complexion. “Who feels it knows it,” Alyce said. We all have emotions and though sometimes feelings get hurt, we must all seek to find a way to heal ourselves.

For Alyce, she turned to paint. Painting gives her a free space to express her feelings and share her innermost thoughts. Thoughts that will evoke one’s emotions, empower you and allows for conversation and interaction. This

Acrylic on Canvas entitled Earth Crisis by Alyce Cameron

taken by her major task; six paintings surrounding the theme “Social Issues.” In this column, I’ll be explaining the artist’s messages in two of the paintings from this series: Earth Crisis and Darker than Blue.

THE ARTIST Alyce Cameron is a Guyanese artist and entrepreneur who is versed in several art expressions including painting, textiles and leather art. Her philosophy is: “I create art pieces not just to look beautiful but to educate, inspire and motivate.” Her theme is everyday life with glimpses of personal experiences. Alyce’s main objective is to leave a visual statement and legacy in the art world.

OF THE PEOPLE Earth Crisis is an acrylic painting that addresses Guyana’s emerging oil and gas industry. It shows a large barrel of oil at the centre of the canvas with the words “hands-off.” Two strong words but in the Guyanese context has no power. We have the Venezuelan claiming half of the country which the artist skilfully portrays using a hand-painted with the colours of the Venezuelan flag holding a knife on the left of the canvas. The edges of our map are being chipped off as Venezuelans are currently seeking refuge in our country due to their own country’s crisis. Then there are foreign

Acrylic on Canvas entitled Darker than Blue by Alyce Cameron

brings me to the painting entitled: Darker than blue.

This painting speaks to the subject of racism, a situation that is not only present in Guyana but around the world. Darker than a blue is addressed to a particular ethnicity that Alyce sees as being victimised, oppressed and marginalised. “It’s the people that are darker than blue,” she said. In this case, she made it from the first-person point of view whereby the viewer can identify with the subject. The hand is stretched out and cover with African

beads. It bids the questions: What’s next?

What shall I do? Why am I always being a victim of whatever? Alyce made sure she stuck with the darker tones as an artist often uses blue to darken a colour. This piece was inspired by a song entitled; We People Who Are Darker Than Blue written by Curtis Mayfield. It’s about working together in unity not seeing oneself above the other.

These paintings are truly thought-provoking. So, if you’re a collector of art, art that is not only aesthetically pleasing but one that also addresses social issues these pieces are most definitely worth acquiring.

You can contact the artist via her on Facebook and Instagram at Alyce McGarrel, on WhatsApp on 688-6950 or call her on 219-4079.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Can one be rational and spiritual at the same time?

SPIRITUALITY and its definition vary for every individual. The first thing that perhaps comes to our mind is deities, religion or to be more mainstream; a hippie with colourful hair who meditates 24/7. While it can be all of those things, I believe it can be deeper than we can ever imagine. First of all, spiritualty means taking on perspec-

tive through beliefs and most of the times letting go of materialistic things. It is believed to be an extension of one’s soul and involves deeper thoughts and ideas—more than what the eye can meet. On the topic of eyes, the concept of the ‘third eye’ is linked to New Aged Spirituality. It is said that one is enlightened and has otherworldly knowledge

through a deity, especially that of Shiva and Buddha.

For many, spirituality is a pure and divine experience that is better to leave unexplored and questioned while for others it’s just a myth of feelings that closeminded people use to comfort themselves away from the real world. The biggest debate people often have around this topic is the question, “Can one be spiritual and still be rational?”. Well, can we?

Maybe- maybe not—I can’t seem to pick sides. However, it’s based on perspective and in a state of being spiritual, one’s mind wanders off away from our day-to-day existence and we wander off to a peaceful and wisdom-like place. I believe one does not necessarily need to be in an awkward yoga position, use incense or enter a place of worship to feel spiritual.

Perhaps, travelling the world or reading a book and even enjoying the sunset can evoke that feeling—it solely depends on the individual.

As I was researching, I came across a concept that suggests spirituality can also be an escape from our egotistical selves. It entails letting go of what we materialistically desire and have as well as, the pleasures we seek and grasping and appreciating the little life has to offer and mirroring the best versions of ourselves. On that note, it can also be used to escape our body and become whoever and whatever we want to be—looking at life in the perspectives of unfamiliar angles. Being spiritual is also known to open up our affective sides a bit more and allows us to feel intensely in ways we never have before.

This might sound like a bunch of nonsensical words, especially if you’re an atheist or someone who simply does not believe in spirituality. To me, that is the mistake we always make—it is to believe that for one to be spiritual, they must also be religious. If you haven’t heard it already, let me be the first to say that’s not true. One can simply be ‘religious’ but never even felt what it feels to be enlightened or soulful— or vice versa. Some ways people normally practice spirituality can be eating healthier, giving to charities and the less fortunate, praying, meditation, self-care and my favourite—sharing love. Love is very important when it comes to being spiritual.

It extends beyond your friends, lover and families—it reaches to the point where it’s infinite to the world, the unknown and everything in between.

My main point by writing all of this is to shed light on the fact that we look at spirituality on a spectrum of mostly ignorance. It is more than just going to church and being vegan, it’s a lifestyle of pureness and the generosity of emotions towards ourselves, others and even the unknown.

While I cannot fully answer the question, “Can one be spiritual and rational?”, I can at least leave something for you all to ponder upon and answer the question for yourselves—the School of life said, “A spiritual experience is neither ineffable nor absurd; the term refers rather to a deeply sustaining interval of relief from the burdens and blindness of being us” and that, to me, is all we need to know!

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

THY KINGDOM COME SUMMIT IN BARTICA

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion

I ALWAYS use any opportunity to go back home especially when I will leave with sweet potatoes and lemon grass from mom’s garden. Bartica will always be home no matter what but this year I have not visited a lot because my mom is finally with me for a few months in the city. It was an honour to be invited to speak to the young people at the Thy Kingdom Come Summit. I decided to travel a bit early to give me time to be with the foster dad, brothers, cousins, nieces and nephews. We were having so much fun that the hours went by and it was time for me to go to the event. I love them all but my youngest niece Jadlyn stole my heart and it is always hard to leave her. Among the line of presenters were a team from the Potter’s House USA, Elder Hyacinth Skeete, Leadrew Johnson and wife Thelma Johnson who were incredible in their presentation. Palmist Eion Greaves is so anointed that his worship never fails to touch lives. It was great to see my fellow Barticans and a humble kingdom of Ambassadors, Calvin and Carmen Nelson. Pastor Rita Brouet was one of the facilitators for the women’s conference and she is a great role model in that community. I missed the Saturday evening Youth Explosion concert with Solid Youth because I had to return to the city for the blood drive. Here, I take this opportunity to thank all who made an effort to give blood including Melissa Boodhoo.

The turnout and enthusiasm were encouraging and we had a blast chatting about how we can give the world the best version of ourselves after many failures. After my presentation. a young man asked, “Can you come back soon to talk to us?”

When he said that there were echoes from the others which indicated I impacted in some way. The youth were provided with tokens from the Team and Back to School packages from the Ministry of the Presidency.

Even before they requested I return I had mentioned to my team that phase two of the LIVING WITH INTENTION MOTIVATIONAL MISSION will be returning soon. Last year, I visited the primary and secondary schools I attend in Bartica and it was awesome. Praise and Worship was done

by Chosen Generation Gospel Band and they set the tone for the sharing of the message. Apostle Ivor and I chatted about some future collaborations to provide an empowering platform for young people. I left the event with a maximum adrenaline flow which provided energy as if I just came from the gym. I knew the driver for the taxi that came for me and we started chatting instantly about my brother who recently died because they were great friends and were both in my class in high school. Everyone knows him as “Plastic” and I am not sure why but his actions touched me that evening. He did not think I should pay the taxi fare because he said he can never repay me. Sometimes it is hard to imagine I was a school teacher but every time I go home someone or something reminds me. It just reminded me of what I practice every day: “adding value to lives”.You can only win while investing in human capital.

The words of my favourite mentor are in my head “I want to make a difference doing something that makes a difference with people that make a difference at a time that makes a difference” Isn’t this POWERFUL? Every day I think of how I can add value to people and encourage others to add value to people.

I will do that until my days have expired on this earth, God’s willing. Think about ways you can impact lives as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

From Pork-knocking to Land Dredge, gold work is hope -But it doesn’t have to be if miners think and mine responsibly

By Sara Bharrat

Part I – Forest-friendly Prospecting. Turning hope and chance into profit For many small miners, gold work in Guyana is built on hope. Sometimes this hope is based on “an inside tip” or “a

“Demonstration of the Flush Drill as a prospecting tool” Photo credit Guyana Gold & Diamond Miners Association, GGDMA

gaff” with somebody, who knows somebody else who knows a place where you can “mek it good in de gold bush”. Retired pork-knocker and small-scale miner Scotty (as he prefers to be identified) has witnessed this story play out many times since he moved to Mahdia more than a decade ago.

When gold prices go up, “we might find a man who got a piece of investment and he gon buy up this and buy up that and go in [the interior]. When you go now, you might see gold, but it can’t compensate [for your expenses].”

This story repeats itself in gold mining across the country.

Residents of the coast, or foreigners from near and far, come to Guyana in search of gold. This “gold fever” is nothing new and is often credited with bringing European ships to these shores hundreds of years ago in search of El Dorado, the fabled lost city of gold. Nowadays, Guyanese with similar dreams of riches and making it big, often head into mining areas with little idea of what awaits in the “gold bush”. Many invest their savings or take loans and big chances in this search for a better life.

Gold mining is a key source of revenue for Guyana and employs directly and indirectly about 86,000 workers who would otherwise find it difficult to get work. Today, small- and medium-scale miners face many challenges – several of which Scotty identifies in his story – which are connected to a lack of awareness and unrealistic expectations among new miners.

“I see this happen with a guy that come from America,” Scotty recalled. “[He] come with bull dozer, excavator, big pick-up…and just flop, at one point I thought he woulda lose his mind, because you come with big vehicle and you go back walking.”

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Bose Portable Home Speaker With Google Assistant and Alexa Support Launched, Promises 360-Degree Sound and Deep Bass BOSE has added a new product to its portfolio of smart home devices – the Bose Portable Home Speaker. The new Bose device boasts of Alexa and Google Assistant support, and promises 360-degree sound dispersion with deep bass output. The Bose Portable Home Speaker weighs just over 1kg and comes in two colour options - Triple Black and Luxe Silver. The Bose smart speaker is claimed to last around 12 hours on a single charge and employs the company’s proprietary voice pick-up system to execute commands received as voice input by Google Assistant or Alexa.

The device also supports AirPlay 2 as well as Spotify Connect, allowing users to enjoy their Spotify playlist on the go. The Bose Portable Home Speaker has been priced at $349 (roughly Rs. 25,000) and will be up for grabs starting September 19. However, details about its region-wise market availability, including India, are yet to be officially disclosed.

Bose will sell a charging cradle separately that will set buyers ◄◄◄ From page XX

SoWhite, #PermitPatty, #BBQBecky, are still essential to the daily experiences of black people and other people of colour.

The novel is set in the land of Orïsha, where King Saran has committed an act of genocide, murdering all the adult Maji (gifted human beings with supernatural powers), and, therefore, effectively wiping all the magic out of the land.

Zélie is the child of a Maji and when she discovers a powerful scroll, brought to her by Amari, a Princess of Orïsha, Zélie and her brother, Tzain, along with the princess must make a perilous journey, avoiding the soldiers sent by the king and trying to stay alive in a strange and harsh land as they try to restore magic and peace to all of Orïsha.

Adeyemi is a brilliant writer, forging the land in which her story is set in with clarity and rules that are essential as any created by the mythical worlds of J. K. Rowling or even George R. R. Martin. She relies on African culture and religion and incorporates these themes in a way that is reminiscent of how C.S. Lewis included Christian mythology into his “Narnia” books. However, it might be argued that Adeyemi’s portrayal of the gods and goddesses, each one standing as a ruler over a particular faction of the Maji, are extremely beautiful in their imagery and artistry the writer uses to present them. Two examples of the 10 gods and goddesses who guide the Maji include Yemoja, goddess of the ocean, who watches over the Omi clan, Maji who can control water, and Oxosi, who watches over the Eranko clan, Maji who have power over animals. The scenes in which the Maji actually use their magic are among the most exciting to read and reminds me of the fight scenes from the important and iconic TV show, “Avatar: the Last Airbender,” if they were put to prose.

There is also the emotional element to consider. Not only has Adeyemi created an astounding fantasy saga, but she has also created a world where POC characters are allowed to be fully-fleshed out and multidimensional. “Children of Blood and Bone” gives us a heroine who is a warrior through and through, gliding with her white hair and dark skin throughout the novel in a way that is so strong and emotionally complex that she would put both Katniss Everdeen and Hermione Granger to shame. The book offers to us a young black boy who plays a prince, conflicted by his love for his sister and his fear of his father and another young black boy who would do whatever it takes to protect his family. We have an old black woman, a secret Maji who can bend time, telling the history of her people in secret, while training her band of female warriors to fight and protecting them from the king’s soldiers. Adeyemi offers a compelling villain in Saran whose own story leading to his rise to power and darkness is one of tragedy and bloodshed, while also showing us Amari, a black princess who rebels against the confines of the castle, ultimately betraying her family and her evil father as she sets out on her own journey to restore harmony to the world and to find the strength that exists within her. There are so many wonderfully crafted characters and moments that it is impossible to isolate only a few.

In the end, to sum up, everything that came before, all that really needs to be said is that “Children of Blood and Bone” is a novel that MUST be read. However, I must also warn you that you will cry at multiple points in the novel – so be prepared for that.

back by $29 (roughly Rs. 2,000).

The new Bose offering employs the company’s own acoustic package to deliver a superior audio experience.

The smart speaker features physical buttons on the top for functionalities such as the proprietary mic-off feature for disconnecting the microphone, thereby eliminating the risks of being heard or recorded.

There are buttons for conventional playback controls, power on/off, volume, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Bose Portable Home Speaker works in tandem with the Bose Music app that brings a few added functionalities to the table. The device can also be paired with other Bose smart speakers and

soundbars to create a multi-room system.

The company has also promised to roll out new features via a software update that will allow users to pair the Bose Portable Home Speaker with a Bose SoundLink speaker for synchronised, voice-controlled audio output.

The new Bose device features an anodized aluminium enclosure that houses three passive radiators, a high-excursion driver, and a proprietary deflector to produce clear sound and disperse it evenly in all directions. The Bose Portable Home Speaker is also claimed to be water-resistant and comes with an IPX4 rating for protection against accidental liquid spills, splashes, and rain.

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This case may be extreme but, even for small miners, the cost of investing in the sector is hefty. Today Guyana is pursuing a green, low carbon, climate-resilient approach to development, one that recognizes and values the importance of standing forests in responding to the global climate crisis. This will call for practical solutions to reducing the impact of sectors, like mining, which are the major drivers of forest clearance. One such approach would be to identify more efficient ways of recovering gold so that less damage is done to the environment, more gold is recovered and the area’s vegetation gets a chance to recover, either naturally or through active reforestation efforts. Affordable, low impact prospecting methods and technologies also help to remove some of the guesswork out of mining and ensures that when miners invest in an area, they will likely recover gold at a profitable scale.

But where do we start? And is it possible for us to pursue gold mining while conserving forests? After more than twenty years in the gold mining business, Scotty firmly believes that what makes or breaks a miner is the technology he uses. In his early days as a pork-knocker, his team used a test rod to assess whether an area was worth working. Larger companies, he explained, would go down deeper for soil samples to make an assessment.

But for many small miners, prospecting equipment is either inaccessible or not part of their mining culture.

The need to balance economic development with the conservation of forests, water and other resources that support our way of life has never been greater. In responding to this challenge Conservation International – Guyana is working in collaboration with key partners from local communities, the private sectors, and government agencies to implement the El Dorado Gold – Responsible Mining for Guyana (RMI) initiative. This initiative seeks to address health and environmental impact, particularly deforestation and mercury use, throughout the various stages of the mining cycle. This work is still in its early stages but has already led to the building of partnerships among a diverse group of stakeholders.

These groups, who are often seen as having conflicting interests, are now coming together around the need for environmentally and socially responsible mining.

One of the signature components of the Initiative is the Addressing Drivers of Deforestation (ADoD) Project, which aims to encourage improved practices in the sector and, ultimately, reduce pressure on forests through more sustainable livelihoods and improved wellbeing.

The project, in part, supports the use of forest-friendly prospecting methods. These prospecting alternatives cost less money, require less time, and are less damaging to the environment, thereby ensuring that an area is worth working before it is cleared. Although efficient prospecting methods take much of the hope and chance out of gold mining and offer greater returns on investments, they are relatively new and require increased awareness, understanding and ultimately, behaviour change among miners. Realizing this behaviour change will be one of the biggest challenges in moving to more responsible mining, but it can be done.

As gold mining remains an important contributor to Guyana’s economy, the Initiative will continue to promote mining approaches that reduce the long-term damage to our forests and provide support to the people that depend on these resources. As Scotty puts it “Mining blind…is asking for all kinds of trouble.”

Finding practical and effective solutions to this challenge is also part of our responsibility to the generations to come; once the gold is gone, future Guyanese should still be able to benefit from our forests, rivers and the variety of services that they provide.

Next week read about Scotty’s hardships and successes in gold mining…

By Sara Bharrat About El Dorado Gold – Responsible Mining for Guyana El Dorado Gold – Responsible mining for Guyana is being implemented by Conservation International-Guyana in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miner Association, the Guyana Women Miners’ Organisation and the National Toshoas Council. The initiative is funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation and the Global Environment Facility. Visit www.conservation.org.gy/project/El-Dorado-Gold to learn more.

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English

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STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, During this time of revising and taking examinations, try to develop a degree of positive anticipation, in which you are keyed and ready to work. Readiness can enable you to be more alert, attentive and concentrated upon your work. It can cause

you to work at the most effective speed, and yet be more attentive to detail. Never get tired of preparing yourself. Be careful!

Love you THE PASSAGE When I was a boy, there was an old German merchant who loved in a little cottage in our town. On Sundays he used to go out and

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

knock chips off the limestone ledges along the Mississippi. And he had If the red slayer think he slays, a great tonnage of these chips, all Or if the slain think he is slain, labeled and catalogued.

They know not well the subtle ways The chips contained little fossil I keep, and pass, and turn again. stems of some defunct water creaRALPH WALDO EMERSON tures called crinoids.

(1803-1882) Brahma The townspeople regarded this little fellow as a little bit abnormal, We climbed up the steep slope behind the but harmless. One day the newspaper reported the arrival of certain titled strangers. Klausen Pass Hotel, picking our way through It was whispered that these strangers were fields of sharp rock and over spongelike great scientists. Some of them were from clumps of wet lichen.

After an hour of heavy climbing, we sat foreign lands, and some among the world’s down on a chilly slab to revive ourselves with leading paleontologists. They came to visit the harmless old man and to hear his pro- water and chocolate. Suddenly, the clouds nouncements on crinoids, and they accepted that had been moving down the mountain spread over our slope, enveloping us in mist. these pronouncements as law.

Like it or not, we knew we had to turn When the old man died, the town awoke to the fact that he was a world authority on back. Disappointed, we walked blindly his subject, a creator of knowledge, a maker downward until we came to the road to our of scientific history. He was a great man - a hotel.

Noteworthy Things: Read the last story man beside whom the local captains of industry were mere bushwhackers. His collection once more to observe how the verbs used went to a national museum, and his name is maintain the mood of the event. a) What feeling of motion do you get known in all the nations of the earth.

(Aldo, Leopold, “Sand County Almanac”) reading that the clouds continued to “flow”? b) Try to figure out why the author chose What to Do 1. Summarise Leopold’s main points in the verb “climbed” for getting up the steep slope behind the Klausen Pass Hotel. the story. c) Why does the author use “sat down” on 2. In your personal experiences and those a chilly slab to revive themselves? of your study partners’, what could make a 2B. Make subjects agree with verbs in the great person go unnoticed among persons in inverted sentences below. a community?

1) Under the pink azalea blooms blue 3. Write an interesting story with a similar kind of main character and first person “I” wildflowers.

2) Here, in the flowers, is a real science narrator. lesson.

3) Within each tiny flower is a pistil and IMPROVING WRITING 1. Verbs that show energy: You can bring stamens.

4) There is also petals and sepals in each some kind of energy to your own writing by flower. using specific, action-packed words.

5) Behind the emerald hills, in the disChoose exact verbs: Exact verbs create mood and strong mental images in descriptive tance, loom the hazy shapes of a snow-capped writing. Notice how the accomplished writ- mountain range.

6) There is adventures to be found in those ers below model the use of energetic verbs.

Make note of these verbs from their respective mountains.

7) Here comes two backpackers. passages. If you need help, you can use a 8) Look! There go another two backpackgood thesaurus with choosing the right verb ers in the distance. for each peculiar situation 9) On the mountains lives deer and bears.

The nights now are full of wind and 10) Near my house is two national parks. destruction; the trees plunge and bend and 2C. Rewrite each sentence following the their leaves fly helter skelter until the lawn is plastered with them and they lie packed in directions in brackets. In some cases, you gutters and choke rain pipes and scatter on will need to change the verb form to make the sentence correct; in other cases the verb damp paths. . will remain the same. Look at this example: (Virginia Woolf, “To the Lighthouse”) Sample: The description of the scene ofThe crowds are thick on the sidewalks and street vendors work on nearly every block. fers many contrasts. (Change “description” to The litter baskets – they look like volcanoes “descriptions”, and then proceed to rewrite.)

Answer: The descriptions of the scene of trash that have just erupted – are overloadoffer many contrasts. ed from a Sunday’s use. Debris is strewn over 1) The fertile soil of the valley supports the pavement and in the gutters. A wind stirs up scraps and creates a funnel of newspaper several kinds of trees. (Change “soil” to “soils’, and then proceed to rewrite.) that swirls up in a mad ballet.

2) The mountains near the building sites (McCandlish Phillip, “City Notebook”) Revise with exact verbs: The best time are quite barren. (Change “site” to “sites”, to check the effectiveness of your verbs is in and then proceed to rewrite.)

3) The ravine on the mountain side creates the revising stage, after you have gotten all your ideas down. Read the passage below many shadows. (Change “ravine” to “raand see how exact verbs strengthen the cre- vines”, and then proceed to rewrite.)

4) The red of the rooftop shines brightly. ated images.

It stopped raining at noon, but clouds (Change “rooftop” to “rooftops” , and 5) then continued to flow down the craggy mountain proceed to rewrite.)

6) The views in other directions ininto the valley below. Despite the weather, we were determined to hike up at least one clude only mountains. (Change “views” to “view”, and then proceed to rewrite.) mountain in Switzerland.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 25, 2019

Eddoes and Shrimp with Sijan Curry

INGREDIENTS

shrimp 2 eddoes 2 sijan ( drumsticks ) 1/2 onion 1 stem scallion 5 cloves garlic 1 1/2 tbsp curry powder 1 1/2 tbsp roasted ground geera (cumin ) 1 tbsp garam masala salt to taste pepper to taste METHOD 1 wash and prepare ingredients 2. pound or blend garlic 3. cut sijan in about 3 inches length and peel 4. make curry paste with the curry powder, geera and garam masala, the blended garlic and pepper and some water 5. heat some oil in a pan 6. add onions, fry for a 30 secs, add curry paste and fry for about 2 mins.

7. add the eddoes and sijan and shrimp,salt to taste, let cook and release its own juices and evaporate 8. once evaporated ( dried down ) add some water to the level of contents 9. cook until juices evaporates to your liking realniceguyana.com

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