Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot 07-04-2021 by Guyana Chronicle

Places and people in #51 Loudia Village Michelle Cadogan is the Postmistress of the #51 Loudia Village, Corentyne, Berbice, Post Office and operates her job with much pride. Equipped with two members of staff, the Post Office services #50, #49, #48, #47, #51, #53 and #54 Villages and residents believe that their service is good and reliable (Samuel Maughn photo)

Sunday July 4, 2021

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Guyanese also celebrate America’s independence

By Francis Quamina Farrier

TODAY, July 4, 2021, is the 244th independence anniversary of the United States of America. That event is being observed and celebrated, not only in the United States and its overseas territories, but in many countries around the world, including the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. From its own independence over 55 years ago,

Guyana has had diplomatic relations with the USA and has shared many bilateral projects for the mutual benefit of both countries. The Transport Development Project is one of them. Since its independence in 1966, Guyana has hosted 22 American Ambassadors, and from my perspective, I would list the three most popular as Delmar R. Carlson (the very first), Roland W. Bullen (who was born in Carriacou in the Caribbean) and David

Brenthardt of the State of Wisconsin. While all those ambassadors possessed that American diplomatic professionalism, there was that special charm about those three ambassadors which I have just named, which from where I stand, really did “Win friends and influence People” in a big way. Those three American ambassadors to Guyana, more than others, also went that extra mile with a range of projects for the benefit of the Guyanese Peo-

Farrier with Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, DC, USA, at the 2019 annual Mayor’s Centenarian Lunch

American Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch (Photo by Francis Quamina Farrier)

ple. They were also extremely interactive with youths and the Guyanese working-class people. They were American diplomats who really won the hearts of the Guyanese people. The St. Francis Youth Club at Port Morant on the Corentyne Coast in Region Six was the recipient especially in funding projects. Ambassador Roland Bullen once paid a visit to the club,

where he saw at first-hand some of the projects being carried out by the members; young adults who possess a strong patriotic fervour for doing all in their power to make Guyana a successful nation-state. The dynamic leader of the club, Alex Farley, proved that the club was worthy of positive attention by American diplomats who were keen on giving a ‘hands up to the organised youths of Guyana. On one particular occasion, I was invited by the St. Francis Youth Club to cover a special visit by Ambassador Roland Bullen. His time spent with those young adults was special for them. And for the ambassador, getting to know more about the ambitions and desires of a section of the youths of the country who lived on the Corentyne Coast, in Region Six. My video recordings of that special visit were included in an edition of the VCT Evening News on Channel 28. The current American Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency Sarah-Ann Lynch, is the second female to hold that post. The first being the likeable and charming Theresa Ann Tull, who never displayed any patrician tendencies of the Guyanese people. The tour of duty of Ambassador Tull was from 1987 to 1990 and there were never any issues of controversy in which she was involved. She conducted her activities with a professional balance; and with a special “Woman’s Touch,” as expressed in song in the American musical movie, “Calamity Jane.” For Ambassador Theresa Ann Tull, all Guyanese were worthy of positive American

attention. Like a good mother, Ambassador Tull had no favourites. The second female Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, is still on her tour of duty and as such, it would not be appropriate to publish any adjudication of her ongoing work with a final assessment. What could be mentioned, however, is that Sarah-Ann Lynch became extremely popular with the Guyanese working-class people when she did that walkabout around the Bourda Market area shortly after her arrival in the country. That diplomatic action of hers was the talk of the town for weeks, especially among women, who felt that the then new American ambassador was someone who cared, not only for the upper-class, but also for the ordinary working-class people, and desired to know how she can work to make their lives better, as they face so many challenges, especially with finances. And what better way than to go shopping at one of the city’s municipal markets and blend in with the regular housewives of Georgetown. As a playwright, I view that as excellent material for a play; maybe with the title, “Taste and buy, Madam Ambassador.” No doubt, Ambassador Lynch continues to taste and savour the substance of the Guyanese people. While Guyana is so often classified as “The poorest country in South America,” there are those Guyanese who firmly object to such a label, and that was before the discovery of oil and gas within Guyana’s territorial SEE PAGE XVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

‘COVID-19 is a beast and doesn’t discriminate’

III

– says survivor, urges everyone to get vaccinated

Walker is grateful to her family who provided invaluable support to her during the ordeal First time leaving the house in 48 days, going for a drive with her husband

By Telesha Ramnarine

Walker spent a lot of her time recuperating in her garden at home

NISA Walker, 58, couldn’t b e h a p p i e r a n d m o re thankful that she survived COVID-19, an experience that made her afraid even to sleep for fear that she would die. She was so weak, she couldn’t even lift her head from a pillow or chew the food in her mouth. Now, she puts her heart and soul into encouraging others to get vaccinated. Initially, she had no alarming symptoms to indicate that she was COVID positive; all she remembers is that she wasn’t feeling her usual energetic self. Her energy level was low and she felt listless. All she wanted to do was to lie down and not be bothered to do anything. After three days of this though, she knew that something was definitely up when she started having some trouble breathing. Subsequently testing positive for the virus, Walker was sent to the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the In-

fectious Disease Hospital at Liliendaal after doctors found that she had an under-

be going in there all alone,” she reflected in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine.

that suddenly sprang upon her. So when she realised that she would have to be in

Walker’s husband did everything he could to help his wife.

lying condition and that her oxygen level was dropping. “I went there later that night; it was frightening…It felt like such a nightmare to

Walker, owner of the popular Oasis Café in Georgetown, had never experienced sickness or any hardship close to the one

that hospital alone without the support of her family and friends, she knew that SEE PAGE IV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Family of Denisha Victor helps support aspiring engineer’s dream

JUST over a year ago, 31-year-old Denisha Victor passed away. She was a local entrepreneur who owned KoKo, a natural hair store on Robb Street, Georgetown and the co-founder of the Curl Fête Guyana Natural Hair and Beauty Expo. Despite her passing, the impact of her life continues to be felt by many and, in her honour, her family decided to make a contribution to another young woman, 19-year-old

Moriah Hamilton, who is setting out to “make waves” in her own right. Victor’s mother Orla Gibson, told the Pepperpot Magazine that she had been thinking of ways she could honour Victor, since it has been one year since her daughter’s passing. Choosing how to honour the young woman, h o w e v e r, p r o v e d t o b e more challenging than she thought, until one day she was scrolling through Face-

book and saw a post that resonated with her. That post was about Hamilton and her efforts at raising the necessary funds to offset her expenses as she begins her tertiary education journey at Howard University in the United States. Hamilton, during the recent launch of her scholarship fundraiser, related that she would be pursuing a major in Civil and Environmental Engineering, and a

Denisha Victor

Nineteen-year-old Moriah Hamilton

minor degree in Communication Studies while at the university. “As I saw the picture and the story on Facebook, I said, ‘You know, that would be good to make this contribution on behalf of Denisha’,” Gibson related. It was then it dawned on her that helping one young woman achieve her dreams of studying abroad and studying the subject areas she wants to was something that Victor herself would have supported. As such, a contribution of US$1,000 was made to the aspiring engineer. “Education is [Denisha’s] thing,” Ms. Gibson emphasised, explaining that her daughter was passionate

about increasing educational opportunities for others. This was evidenced by Victor’s work with the Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central, where she was an active member prior to joining the Rotary Club in August, 2019. While in the Rotaract Club, she executed a literacy project called “Read to lead,” which consisted of a discussion on dyslexia and a six-week reading programme for the children at the Ruimveldt Children’s Home. Beyond this project, Victor also created the club’s signature fundraiser called Wine and Art, which has raised over $3 million for community development in

Guyana. Last year, when Victor passed away, her efforts at giving back and engaging in community service were reflected on. Importantly, her business acumen was also well recognised since, in 2016, she opened her own natural hair store, KoKo. Nowadays, KoKo is currently run by her immediate family members and it continues to be a haven for women entrepreneurs and they continue to feature products from local female artisans. Gibson highlighted that her daughter would have continued to find ways of helping people, because that’s just the kind of person she was.

from people who no longer test positive.

gle over other things? Why beat yourself up over things you have no control over?” The experience has also turned her into a more careful person. “I am miss social butterfly; I like to socialise because I am a people’s person, but I don’t think I will be that person to be present at every occasion anymore. I’ll pick and choose and be extra careful.” Walker has been getting stronger and stronger as she continues to do mindful, slow, deep breathing. “I practise the pranayama every day; Kapalabhati, and I try to do at least 1,000 to 1,500 every day. That’s been really helpful,” she said.

‘COVID-19 is a beast and ... FROM PAGE III she was in for a harrowing experience. “I remember the doctor telling me the next morning I needed to be there for 14 days. I started wailing and screaming and begging. I held on to his coat and begged him to send me home. I never begged so shamelessly in my life,” she recalled. Having satisfied the doctors that she had the conveniences to self-isolate and to be cared for at home, she was allowed to leave. Although Walker was thrilled by the outpouring of support she received virtually from friends and family, it was

still a very lonely time for her. “I doubted myself a lot and wondered if I made the right decision to come home. I kept feeling guilty for surviving when so many people were dying… I told myself maybe I wasn’t careful enough, but I know I was. I took all of the precautions and did all of the right things. I wondered why me and why to this extent,” she recalled. A t h o m e , Wa l k e r couldn’t stop crying. She felt a constant fear that she would die. “I was too weak to lift my head from a pillow, lift my arm, and eat. I would have the food in my mouth and couldn’t chew, because

I was so weak. I was afraid to shut my eyes at night because I wasn’t sure I was going to wake up the next day,” she said. Take your shots Walker said that she received her first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine in March before becoming infected, and she believes that it was this first dose that helped to save her life. “Nothing means anything if you don’t have your good health. And I beg people to take their shots, get vaccinated. Adopt a better, healthier lifestyle. Eat better. Take your vitamins,” she urged. One practical suggestion

she made was for persons to keep extra masks on them so that if they have to be in contact with someone not wearing a mask, they can offer to give them one. “Stay home and be extra cautious. Only leave home if you have to,” she further encouraged. “It’s not a joke. It can hit anyone at any time. It’s really a beast and it doesn’t discriminate. I was a careful person and yet I got it; so if you’re carefree, your chances of getting it are even higher. To the set of people going around saying it’s not real and it’s a hoax and don’t want to take the vaccine, it’s stupid,” Walker expressed, noting that she would also like to see the stigma erased

Life is too short COVID-19 has taught Walker a few lessons and has reinforced many others. Top among them, she said, is to love the people around you and know and focus on who’s important. “Don’t judge other people, take life one day at a time; enjoy your life, your family. Tell people how you feel. Don’t hold back on anything. Life is too short.” Furthermore, she noted that material things mean nothing. “If your life can be snatched away from you so quickly, why fight and strug-

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Guyana participants win ‘Mister and Miss Model of Tourism World’ competition

Paul Anthony Charles

VEN with the challenges that come with participating in a virtual competition, the Guyana participants came off victorious in the recently held ‘Mister and Miss Model of Tourism World’ competition and they’ve both expressed how happy they are with the win. The pageant aims to showcase the cultures of various countries through tourism, travel and humanitarianism, and the winners in the first edition are Paul Anthony Charles, 35, and Raveena Mangal, 29. Though virtual, the pageant featured many traditional segments such as swimwear, evening, talent, runway and national costume. Paul won the ‘Mr. Model of Tourism World’ title and also

Raveena Mangal

copped other awards such as top model- male, headto-head challenge - male, best in swimwear - male, top three tourism speaker, top three humanitarian project, best talent winner, and best in costume - male. Raveena won the ‘Miss Model of Tourism World’ title and also received other awards such as the top model - female, national costume - female, head to head challenge winner- female, best tourism speaker, and people’s choice award - female. The Pepperpot Magazine understands that there were initially 14 participating countries in the pageant, but due to the challenges of the pandemic, it was narrowed down to about half those countries. The countries included Pakistan, Guyana,

Jamaica, South Africa, Bangladesh, the USA, and Colombia. Speaking with Pepperpot Magazine, Paul said he felt excited, humbled, and thankful for winning the title. “Though I’ve won pageants before and you would think I would be cool and collected with my win, I was crying like a baby. It’s an amazing feeling and I’m honoured.” Raveena said winning was the culmination of hard work and dedication that went into the competition by all who supported the event, especially the Director, Roshini Boodhoo-Persaud. “The outpouring of support I’ve received on social media, especially from women, has made me more confident in my purpose and my

arms are stronger to carry the pillars of beauty and strength that the organisation represents. I am grateful for the journey behind me and ready and ecstatic for the journey that will be,” she expressed. For Paul, coping with a virtual pageant was surprisingly challenging. “It was one of the most difficult pageants I’ve done, but it opened my eyes to my creative abilities. Having an amazing team to advise me and guide me helped immensely.” Being used to virtual meetings and events, Raveena was prepared. “We planned, prepared and organised as a team for the pageant, but what was most astonishing was that I was still able to feel as though I got the full pageant experience. We got to make new friends,

experience new places (even though it was right here in Guyana) and experience the glamour of photoshoots and outings. We had fun and worked on our humanitarian causes, while also training to be great ambassadors for our country.” Commenting further on the experience, she said it has allowed her to become the best version of herself. “Though I had many moments of self-doubt, my biggest takeaway from this journey has been overcoming those moments and learning to love myself despite my flaws.” Paul said he would encourage anyone to come and experience the feeling of being in a pageant. “Pageantry is not only for females and it can be just as beneficial for

males. This is a stigma I was very passionate about and I am a testament to overcoming and proving how much can be achieved for a male in pageantry.” He is from the small community of Albouystown and works with the Ministry of Health National AIDS Programme Secretariat, where he does outreaches across Guyana and the Ministry of Education, where he teaches workshops in dance. Raveena hails from the quaint community of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara and is the head of Marketing and Sales at the Institute of Applied Science and Technology, where she has helped to develop local products and was fortunate to extensively travel Guyana’s hinterland.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

#51 Loudia Village, a place of extraordinary people #51 Loudia Village, Corentyne, Berbice (Samuel Maughn photos)

By Michel Outridge THIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the countryside village of #51 Loudia, Corentyne, Berbice, which is the Good Hope district. This is a fairly large roadside community with mixed-race ethnicities and is home to some skilled and extraordinary folk who are making a difference in the lives of many. The first stop in this village is the roadside spot, El Paso, a place where you can stop for good food and cold beverages. You can also sit in the large benab there or have the children play on the trampoline.

It is a clean, well-kept place with extra friendly faces and it is indeed a ‘chill spot’ conveniently located on the public road. The people are very friendly and would take the time to sit and chat and it is a place where most of the locals have lived all their lives. The community has schools, churches, a mandir, a post office and a police station, but no mosque and the people live in harmony. Most people like the place for its solitude, while others said it is their home village, a place like no other. The people of the village are skilled workers, self-employed, small-business owners, cash crops, livestock,

cattle and rice farmers. The community has electricity, potable water supply, landline and cellphone services, internet and cable service as well as good roads and infrastructure. The village is between #50 Leeds and #52, it has more than 2,000 people and extends from the foreshore to the savannahs. The community is an agricultural village where the people utilise every yard space to plant greens and vegetables for the kitchen and to sell. The rice farmers have vast lands on which they cultivate and the cattle and livestock folk use their yard space and savannahs to graze

Focus on the Village

their animals, which include ducks, goats, sheep, pigs, cows, and chickens The village has a lot of greenery and its share of homegrown fruits and vegetables, and it is a place where people don’t buy these things, since they is grown in almost every yard. The #51 NDC Meanwhile, the Pepperpot Magazine met the #51 Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) Overseer, Glory Samuels. She reported that #51 Loudia Village comes under the Good Hope district and the NDC is responsible for eight villages from #51 to #44, and has a population of just over 2,000 with 886 households. Samuels stated that the Youth Choice building and skills training comes under the NDC, with a private partnership where they had a pre-school and daycare cen-

tre, but recently, no programmes are being conducted due to the pandemic. She reported that the people utilise the services at the #47 Health Centre and secondary schools are in other neighbouring villages. She also noted that it is a farming village and with their yearly subvention through the Ministry of Communities, they maintain the internal streets, install street lights and do weekly garbage collection for a fee of $100 per bag and $200 per barrel, only on Wednesdays. The NDC Overseer disclosed that because of flooding, they purchased two polytubings to strengthen the

dam at #49 village, where water was overflowing. She added that two halfinch tubes were also installed in March and one 24-inch tubing was placed behind the sluice, all expenses of the #51 NDC. Samuels disclosed that in March they had flooding of more than two inches of water and the NDC teamed up with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and distributed cleaning hampers to every household. “We do assist the community in whatever way we can and we ensure all SEE PAGE VII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Young professional with a passion for entertainment determined to ‘make a mark’ Dellon Hinds (Samuel Maughn photo)

By Michel Outridge FOR Dellon Hinds, the country will always be his home, since his roots lie within #51 Loudia Village, Corentyne, Berbice. From an early age, he was determined to make something of himself. Today, he has his “side hustle” – an entertainment page on social media and he is a promoter and very big on the entertainment scene in his neck of the woods. The 26-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he was born in the city, but in 1995 his late mother, who was then a Postmistress, was unable to juggle work and children at the same time and needed help. Hinds was sent to live with his grandparents in his mother’s home village of #51 and from then to now, the place has remained his home. His mother has since passed away after working in the postal business for 30 years,having been posted at different post offices across the country. Hinds related that his academic journey started at #50 Leeds Nursery School, then he went to #63 New Market Primary School and his mother wanted him to attend a good secondary school, so he was enrolled at Line Path Secondary School. It was in his high school days he discovered he had a liking for music and started

playing the role of a selector with a music set, his first musical mix with Brutal Jugglers and found it to be fascinating. Hinds related that while staying in the city, he was trying to promote a song and asked a well-known disc jockey (DJ) to assist him, but he didn’t get that help, so he created his own entertainment page and began featuring all local music. He would post his own videos and it gained momentum when his page got more than one million views, likes and shares and that prompted him to kick-start his social media presence even more. “I would post videos of all local songs, music videos and other things that fall under entertainment and now I am on three months annual leave, I can explore the possibilities,” he said. He spent five years as a selector and managed to develop his skills and technique; wanting to hold a permanent job, and decided to enlist in the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Hinds stated that he wrote the entrance exam in 2011 and was successful. After completing training at the Felix Austin Police College, he became a policeman in 2013. “I wanted a permanent government job not a side [job], that is why I joined the Guyana Police Force,” he said.

After training, he was posted to Brickdam Police Station then to the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) where he spent six years; then in 2018 he did a Forensic Video Analyst Course funded and facilitated by an overseas group and was transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). Hinds has been a Forensic Video Analyst for one year at CID and he loves his job, in which he has benefitted from hands-on training and he is pleased to have that continuous training to sharpen his skills. “I am very fortunate to become the person I am today and being a cop has taught me a lot and it keeps me thinking and I have a lot to do with my time and that goes to show no matter what you can become the person you want to be, the change starts with you,” he said. Hinds is an out-going, self-motivating kind of person who goes after things and not people, and with that in mind, he believes he can achieve a lot. He is admired among his peers and is well-known in his village and its environs and is willing to make a mark in the entertainment scene via social media. Hinds is full of ideas and will embark on his own small business, sooner, rather than later.

#51 Loudia Village... FROM PAGE VI drainage canals are cleared, and we pay for the security of the heavy equipment [excavator],” she said. Samuels related that the lowlands are still inunduated and needs to be sand-filled, but the NDC would maintain drains, parapets and cemeteries at #49, #47 and #46 villages through workers on the Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP). She added that they would also assist schools in weeding the yards and spraying and has 11 CIIP

workers on board. She explained that with the monies collected, they turn it over for staff expenses and at present they have only two in-office staff, who are the Overseer and the Assistant Overseer. The Chairperson is Swarsattie Sharif and the ViceChair is Nagesar Sookram and there are 13 councillors. Samuels is from #51 Village and has been at the NDC since 2010.This particular NDC has been doing its bit to give back to the community through the annual bursary awards, whereby five pupils from each pri-

mary school in the district will be awarded money and a certificate for their sterling performances at the Common Entrance Exams. This initiative started in 2000 and despite their financial constraints, they ensure that the children in the community benefit from something as a form of encouragement for them to do well at school. “We try to give the top performers something to encourage them to continue to excel in school, and it is our way of contributing to the community,” she said.

Samuel Maughn photos saved in a folder in Graphics (July 4). Captions:

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#51 NDC Overseer Glory Samuels

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

A family business El Paso Food Shop and Fun Park

By Michel Outridge WHEN on the Corentyne, Berbice, be sure to check out El Paso Fun Park and Food Shop, located at #51 Loudia Village Public Road, a place to relax and unwind with a large benab and a trampoline for children. It was an abandoned plot that was overgrown; a swampy dump that was later converted into a place where people can visit for good food, cold beverages and a place to relax. Proprietor Lisa Archer told the Pepperpot Magazine that while growing up in the village, her mother always had a “sweetie” stand by the roadside and she used to

Vanessa, the chef

that they would prepare different dishes every day and have a variety for customers

chicken and curried beef, among others. They have an in-house

The Benab at El Paso Food Shop (Samuel Maughn photos)

Children at play on the trampoline

assist and as she grew older, she had her eyes set on a similar small business. The 28-year-old stated

to choose from such as curried fish, curried chicken, fried rice with fried chicken, chowmein and pot-roasted

chef and to accompany the dishes, they have local fruit juices as well as carbonated beverages.

Archer reported that they started small and today they have a thriving food business and she is thankful to have grown from strength to strength, which was a result of her close-knit family. Archer and her family are home-grown people from #51 Loudia Village and they reside in the back street of the community and have their food shop on the public road, which is next door to her brother’s house. She explained that instead of a swampy plot, they have a play park where both

adults and children have a place to visit free of cost. “The children do not pay to use the trampoline or benab, but you have to buy food and drinks and a lot was put into the place to make it what it is today,” she said. El Paso Food Shop is a colourful place with bright colours and it is well-kept; a good place to visit or sit for a few minutes before embarking on your journey. The benab is large and it is breezy with tables and chairs, the perfect place to dine.

At the El Paso Food Shop, all COVID-19 protocols are in place such as hand-washing, social distancing and wearing of face masks. The small business is being managed by Archer, her mother and siblings and at weekends they would have a One Man Band and music and transform the place into a fun park and have a barbeque. Vanessa the chef SEE PAGE XI

Focus on the Village

Lisa Archer in the shop

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

#51 Loudia Village’s ‘iguana man’ gives insight into his trade By Michel Outridge A GOOD home-cooked iguana curry appeals to many people who eat ‘wild meat’ in Guyana and it is considered a delicacy. One #51 village resident is versed in catching iguanas and he would sell them in the village and beyond as a full-time job to earn. Marlon Mendonca is from #51 Loudia Village, Corentyne, Berbice, and he isn’t an average person because he is skilled and possesses some extraordinary skills which have rated him an all-rounder when it comes to using his hands and expertise. He is the village ‘Iguana Man’ who would journey to the backlands to catch iguanas; a tall task, because the iguanas live on trees and would only come down to drink water and they can run very fast. Mendonca has an art of catching the iguanas by using a makeshift trap of bamboos and the best time to do it is during daylight hours, he explained.

The 24-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he doesn’t like to sit and not do anything and he developed the expertise to catch iguanas at an early age and would sell them in the village or ride to other villages until all are sold out. Mendonca is also a construction worker, painter, carpenter, mason and would move houses with a relative and was once a cane harvester, but when the estate was closed he had to do other jobs. Being multi-talented has its perks and for Mendonca he takes advantage of job offers and would do whatever is available. Although he is not very talkative, he is skilled in many ways and whenever the people in the village has work to do, Mendonca would be called upon. “I would go out daily and ride from one village to another until all the iguanas[are sold] and then return home to make a fresh catch for the next day if I don’t have any in storage at home,” he said. Mendonca told the Pep-

Iguanas galore

Marlon Mendonca riding around the village selling iguanas (Samuel Maughn photos)

perpot Magazine that mostly foreigners fancy the iguana curry and would buy them in large quantities to make curry with all the ingredients, including coconut milk, which is essential in that dish. He explained that iguanas do not eat meat and they feast only on leaves of plants and often he would be asked to clean the iguanas and would make earn extra by doing that. Mendonca stated that iguanas are properly cleaned by using hot water to scrape off the skin and they are prepared for currying, which is the best way to cook them and some people also use the meat as ‘cutters’ when they have social gatherings. He added that he is always busy and would often be out catching iguanas in his village to earn. Mendonca had some luck that day and did not have to go far before all his iguanas were sold out, bought by one person, who asked him to clean it as well; he made his day’s earnings after the task and went smiling on his way.

Focus

on the Village

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Places and people in the community

By Michel Outridge

THE #51 Loudia Village, Corentyne, Berbice Post Office is managed by Michelle Cadogan and two other staffers and provides a reliable service to several villages and their people. The Postmistress told the Pepperpot Magazine that they sell stamps, do payments of old-age pensions, treasury pension, Laparkan, First Global, money transfers and accept bill payments for all utilities. She related that depending on the time of the month, the Post Office is a very busy place and they try to do their work in a manner where people do not have to wait in long lines to get service. With just two staffers,

to buy the place and construct a more acceptable building to house the Post Office Presently, they are renting and they have a good working relationship with the community. The #51 Loudia Post Office opens from 07:00hrs to 15:00hrs on weekdays and is closed on weekends. The Postmistress added that they also deliver mails and things are good except when it rains; the building is old and in dire need of one edifice. Cadogan and her employees serve the villages of #50, #49, #48, #47, #51, #53 and #54 and their service is good and reliable, despite the challenges. “A lot of people would

The Number 51 Loudia Village Post Office (Samuel Maughn photos)

would come to collect their various pensions every month,” she said.

The Postmistress, Michelle Cadogan

Cadogan reported that the upper flat of the two-storey building is in a bad state and just the lower flat is used and they are hoping

utilise the services provided by the Post Office and some do visit to pay bills and do money transfers, as well as the elderly

The Councillor Winston Samuels is a resident of #51 Loudia Village, Corentyne, Berbice, and he has lived all his life in the community. He is the village grocer, he has a shop which the villagers support and he is well-known and a reserved but respected elder. The 77-year-old would manage his shop daily and would close for lunch before re-opening, and he is one of the 13 councillors at the local Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC). “The people of this village have what it takes to foster development, but need support,” he said. Samuels reported that they had a flood last month and the NDC and central government officials visited and did an assessment of the situation, to ascertain how they can help in terms of flood relief. All drainage canals and trenches were cleared and pumps were brought in to

Focus

pump the excess water off the land; cleaning hampers were distributed to every house and they were grateful for the assistance.

The lovely house At the turn, right on the Public Road at #46 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, there is an unusually beautiful house made of cedar wood, which

sits on a large plot of land. It is very eye-catching and it is the vacation house of the Kendalls, their cusSEE PAGE XI

on the Village

The Canadian-designed cedar wood house located at #46 Village, Corentyne, Berbice

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Places and people in the ... FROM PAGE X

tom-made house and whenever they are in Guyana, they would spend their time there, as they were doing when the team caught up with them. According to James Kendall, the house is 30 years old; it is a design from the Canadian Lindar Cedar home-style, but the Kendalls made a parallel replica which is 40 per cent of the Canadian model. He explained that he had the house modified to suit the local climate, which is a feature of the

coastal land and was made into a cottage-style edifice, off the ground just in case there was flooding. Kendall added that the house is four feet off the ground and has three levels; it is quite large and spacious “I was born and raised in this village, but I migrated and is residing in Canada for more than 40 years and I have two girls and the plot of land was a gift from my grandfather, who owned the estate back then. I wanted to do something and built this house,” he said. Kendall stated that the house was designed in 1988

and with local workers the house was built in 1989 and is a work in progress, since repairs and upgrading are continuously being done. He disclosed that the brightly painted, well-kept house has three bedrooms, another on the lower flat, a large family room, a study and has a semi-wrap around bend with two baths, two toilets and the master bedroom. Kendall told the Pepperpot Magazine that just like the village #46, the house has 46 windows, doors, incorporated as a residential home.

Winston Samuels, councillor/grocer

A family... FROM PAGE VIII Although she is from another village, #76 Housing Scheme, Corentyne, Berbice, she would spend a lot of time at #51 Loudia Village at the El Paso Food Shop because she is the chef. The 49-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that she came from a family of chefs and good cooks and grew up in the kitchen preparing good food with her family. As she grew up, she realised she wanted to have a career as a chef and went to sharpen her skills at the Carnegie School of Home Economics and was qualified. The mother of five related that she has been cooking for the past 25 years and thoroughly enjoys her job. Vanessa added that she is very passionate about cook-

ing and is versed in making any dish which includes baking. “When you are passionate about cooking like me there is no such thing as slaving over a stove, food is made with love and it is quite enjoyable,” she said. The grandmother of five stated that she would start working from 06:30hrs to 14:00hrs daily then commute home. Vanessa added that every day she would prepare different dishes, so on no given day would they have the same foods. The Cake and Chips Man Wayne Archer is the father of three and is wellknown on the Corentyne corridor, because he would ride and sell cakes and

chips daily from one village to another. He would sell home-made salaras, pine tarts, cheese rolls, sponge cakes and pine slices, along with plantain chips and chicken foot with “sour.” Archer would lend a helping hand selling in his family business, El Paso Food Shop and help to clean up the place daily. He is conveniently located next door and his place is where all El Paso the cooking takes place by the in-house chef, Vanessa (only name). Archer would ride his

Food Shop

bicycle from #51 Loudia to Eversham villages and would return home after all

his home-made cakes and chips are sold out. He goes from door to

door and is your friendly neighbour, who is making an honest living.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Places and people in the ... FROM PAGE X

Winston Samuels, councillor/grocer

Food Shop

bicycle from #51 Loudia to Eversham villages and would return home after all

his home-made cakes and chips are sold out. He goes from door to

door and is your friendly neighbour, who is making an honest living.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

MESSAGE ON PART 1I A TREE BARK

SHE felt a little fear, not sure who it was, but she had been living literally imprisoned and lonely for so long, those words gave her a little hope for something new. Looking across the water though, she wondered, “How did the person who found the message knew it came from me? Has someone been watching me?” The rains came that night for it was the May/June season and it continued for more than a week, so she could not go back to the beach. The water level in several areas along the coast continued to rise although pumps were working. Farms were becoming flooded and in some areas, houses were being inundated by the floodwaters. “It’s happening again,”

she said deeply disturbed, “Another disaster that will severely affect farmers.” Her husband donated food hampers and other flood-relief items, but she wanted him to go on the ground so the damage and losses could be properly assessed. “The government’s people are there on the ground in every region,” he told her. “I know,” she answered undeterred, “But they can’t possibly do everything or reach everyone in time.” After two days and her determination to do more for the people affected, he finally agreed and assembled a team to visit flooded areas. She requested to go with him and from the deep concern in her eyes because of her past experiences as a farmer’s daughter, he just couldn’t say ‘No’.

It was heartbreaking to see the devastation and hear the desperate cries for help. For the first couple of days, areas visited were given great help and on the third day, closer to home on the West Bank, the pineapple and citrus farmers were in danger from the rising waters of the conservancy.

She stood in close to kneehigh waters talking to a few women farmers, then turned to look when one of the women said, “Stephan is back.” He was mooring his boat, a sleek craft, different from the farmers and when he stepped out words died in her throat. Tall, young, rugged good looks and no shirt on a muscle-toned body. “Damn,” she gasped, “Did he just step out of a dream?” The women farmers, though older, looked at him admiringly too. “Who is he?” Anuradha asked finding her voice. “A businessman. He owns a resort in Region Nine, but his brother owns farms in the backlands, so he visits sometimes.”

“And he’s single.” “A Portuguese-Amerindian with—,” there was a pause, “How to describe his looks?” “Incredible…” Anuradha said and couldn’t help smiling, but wary of the fact her husband might be watching her, as he often did. The handsome stranger was walking towards the relief team and casually pulled on a t-shirt, which was to her a sensuous movement and she almost gasped again. “What is going on with me?” she questioned silently, surprised at her reactions and took a deep breath to compose herself. Not long after her husband concluded his talk with the engineers and signalled to her he was ready to leave. She was

about to walk towards him when his phone rang and he gestured to her to wait for a little, as he took the important call. The stranger walked up to where she was standing with the women farmers and greeted them warmly, but when he looked at her, there was something else in his smile. His presence, undeniably attractive, made her nervous and as the women engaged him in light conversation, she warned herself silently, “I think I am going to get into trouble for this by just standing here.” The women thanked her as they took their leave, for her support and advice on the flood situation and as she turned to leave also, the SEE PAGE XVII

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

URGENT IMPERATIVE FOR RESTORATION OF XX XIV GEORGETOWN TOWN HALL

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ―― Sunday, CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT Sunday,February January 28, 10, 2021 2021

THE SEAWALLS FOREVER!

REVISITING THE GUYANA/ VENEZUELA CONTROVERSY SOON TO COME BEFORE THE ICJ

RECENTLY, the Guyana Hand building came up a and many international sing- salves and DeFreitas famiFire Service declared the few years earlier in 1867. ers and musicians who were lies and the administrative Georgetown City Hall to The Town Hall was there- touring Latin America would staff had such distinguished be a fire hazard, with the fore part of a constellation take in Guyana in their itin- Town Clerks as E.A.Adams implication that the struc- of beautifully designed erary. Many citizens were and Elmore Mayers, Treature of the building is in and impressively awesome introduced to Western clas- surers like Ramalho and such a state of disrepair buildings. Twinning with the sical music at these concerts. City Engineers like Nurse as to pose a threat to the Town Hall is the outstanding When political parties were and Maitland Singh. Unlike THE controversy will again shortly and discussions where factualtoday, bases most invariably livesGuyana/Venezuela and limbs of persons City Engineer’s office. formed, they would almost of the become councilwho up may go into or near The Town Hall (ICJ). stands blurred. all launch their electoral lors and the workforce were come before the International Court of Justice it. theoflast sev-in the outon asthe thecontroversy greatestof wooden at the Town Hall. born in the orseashells lived there IntoGuyana, most thedeep writings have campaigns In thisisoffering, we will depart from thiscity norm and try to THEOver Seawalls lie consciousness Guyanese today rather muddy was once covered with and eral years suchespecially warnings neo-Gothic the answer During the Christmas seafor most their The been of a historical and factual nature andbuilding this a in good questions many have beenofasking since theup people, but Georgetowners. Yet itis has rarely theretwo would alwaysthat be children exploring and lives. picking have been forthcoming Caribbean and was, son, children’s parties were fishing gradual of town thing, since the Guyanese are encouraged of theoftwo Guyanese boatsdecay inthey Guyana’s terribeen noticed by the newspublic media andnot the last timeasit itwasseizure seashells different colours; sometimes maythe find large from other sources and at were, taken out of Fairyoften held in the courtyard. and the breakdown of the mentioned as an item into of national concern was five or sixtorial conch shells. to move their attention the realms of arguments waters by a Venezuelan navy ship. The first question last,years the ago Citywhen Council has overtopped land. It came intoand useflooded imTheThe cityforeshore was managed by services came with the Ocean the wall or continental shelf gradually risesthe andadfalls taken is Public mediately who were busi- the vent of independence. thethem yardsseriously parallel and to the Road. and Thishoused was thethe first councillors every 20 years and today, foreshore land between The Camp constructing a new adminoffice, andthe professionals, Councils politicised time in living memory that mayor’s there was suchthe anCouncil’s occurrence nessmen Street and Pegasus Hotel has almost became risen to the height of istrative centre for itself. chamber with its impressive people of education and of with councillors and it led to great panic. The authorities hurriedly con- the wall and coconut trees and other vegetation with grow less on it. The City Hall, or to use horseshoe table and the ad- means. There was always managerial skills than forstructed a barrier of standing concrete its more accurate appella- ministrative offices. It came an undertaker on the Coun- merly and the main criterislabs on the Walls to counter such overtoption ‘Town Hall,’ had seen to be the hub of the town’s cil since the Council was on of employment became ping. In the weeks, the Seawalls better times and last wasfew once socio-cultural activities as responsible for Le Repentir political affiliation. The have again featured in the news, butbroad in a and impres- and other cemeteries. These one of the main centres well. Its happier vein. of life of the city. It was sive stairway led to an audi- councillors represented variCamp Street to the Demerara River, openedFrom in 1879 and was torium with polished floors, ous constituencies in the city the wall had become disfigured by an among the several beautiful 400 neatlyacculaid out chairs, and the citizens had full and of unsightly garbage and noglass one windows easy access to them. These andmulation impressive buildings coloured assumed responsibility cleaning it. A various co- councillors served pro bono which were the constructed in ofwhich reflected man, this Carl Melville, who sometimes the homeless town about time. lours when the sun shone publico and received no pay thereBuilding, was noticedre-by Dwayne Theslept Public through Hackett and a stage that had nor allowances of any kind. trying to clean the garbage and immediately named Parliament Building, an organ and a piano and The Councils were suphelpand him.is Hackett the acoustical- ported by an equally able wasvolunteered opened in to 1837 space placed which was incident on social immediately famous for having beenmedia built and ly accurate. and career workforce who on anumbers floatingoffoundation and persons volunteered their services. On the weekends, in the were recruited on the basis obliquely opposite are one late First Lady Arya to Aliitwas of afternoons, the first to concerts of merit. Employment at the volunteer Magistrateand Courts which of were arranged the Ministry Public Works,where musi- the Town Hall had the same were slightly earlier. cians like of Lynette thebuilt Director of Solid Waste Department the Dolphin, prestige as the Colonial Civil In 1880 the Victoria LawandLynette Georgetown City Council the FireKatchay, Service Rosemary Service. Councillors were of Courts wereinvolved openedwith and her. in The Ramdeholl and others per- the ilk of LFS Burnham, Sir became Fire Service 1881 the Stabroek Market onall thethepiano and vi- Lionel Luckhoo, R.B. Gajraj cleaned the bandstand and in aformed few days wasgarbage erected. Hand-inolin. Singers also performed and members of the GonwasThe removed and Seawalls appeared

as if they had always been maintained! Many have been high in their praises of this example of civic responsibility. The Seawalls had always been the promenade and park for the people of Georgetown and the surrounding villages from the last quarter of the 19th century and continued to be so until the 1960s when the country became plagued with political tension and there were robberies on the Seawalls. For most of the 1960s, therefore, fewer and fewer people visited the Seawalls. In its heyday, the Seawalls were the most delightful place in Georgetown. The vast openness of the seascape and the surrounding landscape, the blue skies and silver clouds, the ever-present seagulls and the steady flow of the health-giving trade winds and the enveloping peace and quietude attracted hundreds of people at all times of the day. The beach which

Likewise, the sea has reclaimed the land along the Kitty Seawall where houses once stood. Indeed, a substantial building is still standing close to the wall near the Kitty Pump Station, but the sea is under it. Old fishermen who set their nets on the foreshore sea could vividly describe the cyclical rise and fall of the beach. The Seawalls provided a favourite place for health enthusiasts. Many would go there to practise deep breathing of the clean and fresh sea breezes. Others would be cycling or even training for cycle races. Probably the most notable were the ones who went for physical culture. Many of this group would go to the Seawalls by either jogging to get there or by cycle and they would arrive there at 5 o’clock, long before

Research work helping curb... From Page III

timate for that area and in the space of 18 months, some 33 Giant Anteaters were identified. According to Millar, researching the animals included going out on horseback and following them from a distance to be able to stock up on more scientific infor-

zone in the village. “So we will work with the villagers to create certain rules and help them to know what they should and should not do. For example, no one is allowed to kill them, keep them as a pet, destroy their habitat, and light a fire in certain places, so that we can further protect

several short documentaries called the “Secret Life of Giant Anteaters” and each episode focuses on different aspects of the work being done. Two more episodes are expected to be released this month. The team also does a lot of awareness work, including

sewage water systems the sun and had risen. The historic and heritage is, why is the public sowere convinced they broke down, theVenezuelan roads were On moonlit nights the Seawalls always athat crowded importance of the Town have a valid claim two-thirds of with Guyana’s territory and allowed to deteriorate, Lesocialise Hall is well understood by promenade. Many to went to friends, but all went why theirthe politicians bellicose and aggressive about Repentir cemetery which allrising Guyanese, bysea theand City to enjoy beauty ofarethesomoon from the the was once like well-kept this claim? Anda the second is,by why did President Council, the central govblue-green moonlight whichquestion was brighter, since there were park, reverted to dilute a jungle Maduro of Venezuela choose this time toenjoy seize theby boats ernment even the no road lights to it. Others wouldand the various and the financial managediplomatic community. The when he knew he would alienate the Guyanese population phases of the New Moon with the background of purple skies ment became The thousands EuropeanofUnion has pledged and cause thechaotic. international community to condemn or embellished with stars which appear decay of thebrighter Town Hall is of disapprove of his action, leaving Venezuela intersince there were no cityisolated lights. Others PAGE XVII to apiece withon thethe decay theSeawalls inSEE nationally issue. would go toofthe the late afternoons rest The of the city. answer to the sunsets first question began during theinto Cold admire gradually transforming the

light ofof dusk. War: At theblue beginning the 1960s Britain had decided to joysthe of colony the Seawalls were the withdraw fromAnother Guyana of andthe grant independence, earlylikely evening concerts givenof bythe the newly Militia but it was very thatSunday the Prime Minister the Police at the Bandstand which independentBand stateand would be DrBand Cheddi Jagan, an avowed attracted hundreds of people. Their repertoire conMarxist. U.S. Cold War interests tried to persuade Britain sisted ofindependence, light classical music Strauss’ and to delay Guyana’s but allsuch that as Britain could ballet Delibes’ pizzicato promise wasother that waltzes, she would handmusic over such power to a non-ComandMinister. Sylvia, atAmerican least one English patriotic such munist Prime Intelligence feltsong that this “This royal throne of Kings” and British offerasneeded further insurance andand so Guyanese they devised Caribbean songs. The concerts arranged a plan whereby theirfolk client Venezuela wouldwere threaten to for early evening so that children could attend; many Guyanese in later life have admitted that their first exposure to classical music was from these Bandstand concerts. On Easter Monday thousands of kite-flyers turned out from five o’clock in the morning. Kites were all hand-made and were in a variety of shapes such as boxes, birds and snakes, but the predominant shape was the Guyanese octagon and in a variety of colours. Singing engines, a kite which made a loud droning sound, was one of the most popular. Kite-flying was always combined with picnicking. The Easter kite-flying today is a pale reminiscence of the heyday. As mentioned above, the political tensions and criminality kept people away from the Seawalls in the 1960s. By the invade Guyana if theremore wasstable any possibility of a Marxist 1990s life had become and people again began to government being installed in Guyana. frequent the Seawalls, but the ambience had changed. There Theup1899 Award hadofsettled the boundaries of grew stallsArbitral lining the parapet the Public Road from the Guyana and Venezuela and these boundaries were fully Kitty Pump Station to the Pegasus, selling refreshments and accepted bystalls bothwere parties and the communiall of these well-lit. TheInternational character of the Seawalls ty. of the junior lawyers representing Venezuela hadOne changed from a peaceful promenade to a lively fair. at the arbitration, MalletPrevost, left ais letter was not Now that the tourism industry beingthat revived, the toSeawalls have been after his death. In that letter, stillopened offer anuntil attractive attraction. he claimed that the Arbitral Award was the result of an arrangement between Britain and the Russian arbitrator to deprive Venezuela of its rights. After more than half a century, Venezuela, based on Mallet-Prevost’s posthumous letter, now rejected the Arbitral Award and claimed twothirds of Guyana’s territory. Mallet-Prevost’s posthumous letter was the causus Venezuela used to threaten Guyana and this continued after the Cold War, the raison d’etre for the claim, had ended. Most lawyers and historians who took any notice of Mallet-Prevost’s letter dismissed it as a historical curiosity or very flimsy evidence on which to attempt to upset a long-accepted Arbitral Award. But the Venezuelan politicians and the Venezuelan public gave credence and importance to Mallet-Prevost’s posthumous letter, which would have been dismissed in the modern world. But the Venezuelan politicians and public still live in the 19th century Napoleonic world where territorial conquests were

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 28, 2021

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

XIII

BEYOND ALL THINGS ON THE AWARENESS OF MOTIVATING THE AESTHETICOUR AND SPECIES ISOF THE KITCHEN AND WHAT THE ‘BEING’ OUR YOUNG NATION Part II RESTS IN THE BOWL ON THE TABLE BEYOND everything that we place a high value on, religion, Gods or God,

mythical propositions of self-importance, wealth in precious and conspicuous

IN concluding this discussion, which is intended to raise questions within the reader and inspire responsible actions among those that acquire decision making positions or are already there, we cannot arrive at a sensible without considerations in retrospect. So in a brief flashback, we must recognise, what we have lost to our physical memory reference archive, and use this as inspiration, to be able to raise a natural alarm, a connection to the aesthetic sensitivity alerting us to the fact that we need to have a historical memory in respect to our surroundings, as buildings, landscapes and architecture are inherent of memories in both the conscious and subconscious awareness. We have to become other than people who occupy a geographic space on this planet, and relate to what is the necessary thinking that will enable us to address from the now onward what is significant to telling our stories, especially stories important to our timelines. When we became independent, the euphoria of self-governed nationhood intoxicated us, it had its grounds for intoxication alongside sober examination. We did not make the observation that all around us within the borders of countries we still held controlled admiration for, had retained the edifices of past times. Our own coloniser England never dismantled Hadrian’s Wall. In more ways than one, from previous colonisers and also from despised local leaders, they kept the memory for reflection, in our Caribbean, Christophe’s spectacular fortress of defence in Haiti will remain, regardless of his history. Europe with the obvious white supremacy that emerged with colonisation did not destroy the sculptures of Afro-European Knights, artworks and literature that spoke of, or alluded to the African presence in a much older Europe, of course, they didn’t in-depth celebrate them either, and also hid their identities with new portraits and in movies. Where we erred in Guyana was not to use the structures that became available with the decline of trademark services like the Trains, to build museums dedicated to that part of our historical memory. Why preserve the physical imagery of the past? Simple, our ancestors lived it, for the historian, the creative mind, the investigative journalist, the physical location is important. The development of museums was a continuous peeve of the late Dr. Dennis Williams, who had identified Five Museums to be built, he insisted that a marine museum would have been a must. I can now imagine a display of the ship’s kitchen on Lady Northcourt with its cook, the portrait of indifference ‘John’, ‘keep away from John’s kitchen, and why?’ A caption should read before this rude faced ship’s cook made of papier máché –“whose kitchen lay beneath a toilet, from which water dripped continuously, or so we were made See Page XIX

metals, academic achievements; all these come secondary to the initial factor

that to be able to think, to be altruistic, benevolent and noble, it would seem, or more, it’s obvious that one must first, be well fed. By choice as this example indicates, to then denounce the well-embraced menu of the social kindred towards embracing before all- the Mage’s esoteric quest of a constrained relationship with victuals. We in Guyana produce food, but what we produce is not well managed, especially now with floods, there has been no warning or indication of what attention should be given to perishables emerging from areas with floodwaters. What should we buy, what

should we turn away from? Neither is there an account on how do some produce, fruits etc, find themselves on the shelves or vendor stands when they are supposed to be out of season; is it natural, or are dangerous, unnatural methods used to achieve this? The question of food is indeed a serious area of discussion because it is either life-enhancing or menacingly life-threatening, especially with what is known of the ‘dangers to the life of consumers’ that devastating chemicals can pose if opportunistically used to produce ‘Frankenstein’ fruit and vegetables. There are ample reasons to relate

this. I did see some time ago more than one IPED mini-documentary on pesticide practices, but I doubt that they are used widely. I still have haunting memories from years ago when I supported logistics in the management of a farm and the options that other farm managers up the same creek were proposing to produce fruit out of season. This has become more important with the number of food outlets opening up - small, medium and large. Again, I must repeat It was through the death of an acquaintance many years ago who had died from eating a fruit (pawpaw) that SEE PAGE XV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

BEYOND ALL THINGS MOTIVATING OUR SPECIES IS THE ... FROM PAGE XIV was on sale while saturated with a dangerous chemical, I penned a letter to the newspapers. I did as a result do some Edutainment work in the field with the ‘Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Board’ with the then Registrar ‘Basdeo Dwarka,’ who wanted an approach to reach farmers who were literacy- challenged. I provided two inhouse cartoon characters and a document was prepared. Unfortunately, he was not on the job long after that, and a drop in the pool without follow up was what it was – a spark that could not ignite. Historically, the civilisa-

tions that mastered early the agrarian culture and animal husbandries like Sumer, Khemet, Mahenjo Daro, and their kindred states were then relieved to have space to explore the Kosmic language and develop indelible contributions to humankind, the first preservation Agri-silos were recorded in ancient Khemet and went with early migrations into other parts of Africa. In comparison to the nomadic peoples and the so-called hungry warrior nations that were driven by the hostile geography and reluctant soil that they emerged from to steal, conquer and dominate the more advanced

peoples, on the pretext of attributing the fertile, stolen lands, and the methods of that heritage to themselves. Should we compare, for example, the sea peoples and others whom the Sumerians referred to as uncivilised peoples from beyond? The invader most times had always developed weapons of war and approaches to the savagery that was beyond the comprehension of the better-fed nations with their advanced Guilds that they were invading, to the hungry nomad or ravishing seafarer; human principles and humanity were never inherent. The impetus of the culture of greed and

inhuman justification lay in access to balanced and adequate food, natural medicines and their related indigenous methods of preservation and preparation, gold and precious metals were the bounty, but plantations, slavery and caste systems were the pivotal priorities when the analyst of the crime is sensibly completed, then the Gods of justification are imposed, bearing civilizing

standards, of who is better and more deserving of the loot. Therefore, in a country like ours, why should we be purchasing vegetables (especially Greens) that turn into mush after two days? On enquiry the common answer is “Deh spraying de greens, even some fruits bassman”; this is a situation of a threat to health locally, and a threat to penetrating the international market. For

this article, the local issue is first and foremost. What lies before us is placing a value of food sufficiency, the old standard of ‘Eat what we grow’ and understand what we can grow, our fertile lands, flora and fauna forest reserves, rivers and seas must become not tomorrow, but now, the sacred places that they are in our psyche.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Guyanese also celebrate ...

FROM PAGE II

Francis Quamina Farrier in front of the American Capitol in Washington DC, which was over-run by a large mob of domestic terrorists on January 6, 2021

waters. ExxonMobil is a powerful American company that does not enjoy the best relations with the people of many countries in which it is functioning. It is the hope of the Guyanese people that Guyana will be treated more fairly as that American company does its extraction of those two costly natural resources - oil and gas. It is well-known that many other small countries with oil reserves are still relatively poor. Guyana has many natural resources including gold, diamonds, bauxite, manganese etc, yet Guyana continues to remain ‘poor’ and their people destitute. With all its oil-and-gas extractions, there are still many destitute Guyanese; many pavement dwellers who sleep on the pavements around the Bourda Market, the General

Post Office, and even on the pavements around the country’s Parliament. As the American Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch could be, I guess, very influential in how that powerful American Oil company, EXXONMOBIL, treats Guyana and the Guyanese people. High-ranking operatives have, in fact, made statements that Guyana will be treated fairly. However, that remains somewhat controversial and like a raisin in the sun. When ambassadors and high commissioners from time to time go and interact with the ordinary people, it is usually productive and a means to bring another level of diplomatic benefits. As a little boy growing up in British Guiana, I heard of the Governor of Brit-

ish Guiana, Scotsman Sir Gordon Lethem, moving around the city incognito and learning at first hand what were the principal concerns, desires and needs of the people. Lethem in Region Nine was named to his honour and memory. Pioneering American aviators in British Guiana Art Williams and Harry Wendt have been memorialised with their names at the Eugene Correia International Airport at Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara. As America’s 244th independence anniversary is being celebrated, Guyanese recall the friendly relations between the two countries over the decades. Happy 4th of July to Ambassador Sarah Ann Lynch and all Americans now in Guyana.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

MESSAGE ON URGENT IMPERATIVE A TREE ... FROM PAGE XII

stranger’s words stopped her in her tracks. “I can feel your desire.” She turned and looked at him stunned for a short moment. “You—you wrote that?” He smiled, a deep warmth reflecting in his eyes and a new, unique feeling entered her being that seemed to lift her to a place she had never been. Her husband’s voice broke the magic of the moment. “Anuradha.” “Yes,” she answered

obediently and walked past him, not daring to turn back to look at the stranger. On the way home, she wondered, “How did he know I wrote those words on the tree bark?” The beach was private and she had never seen anyone except the egrets, and occasional speed boats further on the horizon. That night she thought of him so much, the intense feeling took away her sleep, although she had a tiring

day. “Is this what it means to fall in love?” she asked herself. It was like a breath of fresh air in her life and even though she was not sure how she could see him again, if ever, at least she now had something to dream of, finding within her a little joy and happiness. “One day maybe I’ll see you again,” she said with a hopeful sigh. To be continued…

XVII

FOR ... FROM PAGE XIII

$100 million and the central government and other donors would fund the complete restoration, but they are reluctant to have the Mayor and Town Council manage the project. We would suggest t h a t t h e re s t o r a t i o n and future control of the building be given to the National Trust, who would in turn delegate these tasks to an executive committee drawn from a wide cross-section, including members of the diplomatic community. The City Council would already have had their new ad-

ministrative building and would work out arrangements for usage of the restored building with the National Trust’s executive committee. Legislation would have to be made to effectuate these arrangements. Coming to a consensus would now be easier, given the meeting which took place between President Ali with a central government delegation and the Mayor and City Council in March last, where much goodwill and understanding permeated.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 28, 2021 CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

o not always know what I’m looking losing your phone would be on a scale of 1-10. 98 percent y phone is such a normal part of my said 10 and 2 percent said 9. They all claimed that it would AN avid reader wrote to child at a high risk of demental illnesses associated myme, hand that I cannot count the numbe the worst material possession that they could ever lose. telling me that her veloping Fetal Alcohol Syn- with FAS. pregnant it butwas dromeactually (FAS). FAS is in a meda baby born hedneighbour for it,iswhile my Physically, They continued to say that feelings of anxiety, irritation and is still drinking alcohol ical condition that a child with FAS will have a small heavily. She through alcohol and wide-set o when I says getthey upbothin develops the morning andhead, small overwhelming sadness would be felt if they were to lose their read my column (thanks exposure while in the womb. eyes and very thin upper for that) maybe some This means when the preg- Ilips. They would today. be bee going tososleep is check my phone. phone education on the harms of nant mother consumes alco- low-average birth weight healthy mustalcohol be done. this mayand help. something hol. Drinking during and height. InIt the womb, a seems harmless, right? Caring so much about a I’m actually not very pregnancy results in damage baby does not have a fully and s u r pfound r i s e d t o l ethat a r n t h awomen t to both thewere brain andmore body developed liver and therephone? Well, this week I’ve been really paying attention expectant parents do not of the child. While it would fore cannot process the ald toknow their simply because mencohol that tocanthe that I and others around me give to a the phones harms that altake frequent consumption easilyimportance spread cohol may cause because for FAS to occur, there are and damage vital organs. ocial media apps. Also, older people phone, than what’s actually going on around them. it is not something that is no safe amounts of alcohol They often presentrather with taught in schools. I hope to drink during pregnancy. heart, kidney or limb probe addicted. I believe this is becauselems. Heart Ourmurmurs phones -- whether we are speaking to other people, this piece brings awareness, and and prevention of(MyWhat are the signs of Fe- seizure disorders are also useacceptance smartphones father actually using social media or playing games -- can be addictive these harms. tal Alcohol Syndrome? possibilities. Drinking alcohol while There are numerous During as development, they alter our moods, beliefs and trigger enjoyable pregnant puts your unborn physical deformities and there would be issues with sight and hearing as well gan that is supposed to only y colleagues and friends how bad and unenjoyable feelings. Apart from obviously my as thought processing, im- nourishbeing the baby. Therefore, pulse control and judgement. you can prevent FAS by not main source of communication, mybe learning phone my newspaThere will and isconsuming alcohol during memory disabilities fuelled pregnancy. per, watch, alarm, map, recorder, daypoorplanner, calendar, by hyperactivity, conBasically, the alcohol centration, intellectual dis- that is absorbed by the fetus camera, music player, calculator, a weapon (sometimes) ability and low motivation. prevents sufficient nutriAll of the above affects their tion and even oxygen and my friend when I’m bored or lonelybasically ev-from ability to properly commu- getting to its vital organs. have normal social If you are planning to beerything. However, it is also nicate, my constant interrupter and skills and form healthy rela- come pregnant, it is beneficial out to stay there) off of alcohol distractor. I (I imagine muchtionships. like most of you All of the above symp- completely as you could affect mental health. when conception have a deep desire to know toms everything thatnotisknow going on. Any change in routine caus- actually happens. While I believe that is human nature. it become es an But unusualwhen amount ofdoes any amount of alcohol is stress. There is depression dangerous during pregnancy, too much? and anxiety if the condi- studies show that consuming tion is severe. Many social alcohol during the first three Well, I believe it’s too much when it probhas months a name. ‘Noissues such as legal pregnancy is the lems, inappropriate sexual most dangerous. mophobia’ is the term coinedbehaviour to describe the fear of being and drug use are Of course, the intensialso common in thosehave with tywe of FAS will depend without a mobile phone. Seriously, what come to? on FAS. This usually results in what, how much and how or unemoften alcohol is consumed. It becomes an addiction whenschool thedrop-out object begins to control ployment. Unfortunately, Studies also show that if the the symptoms of FAS tend to pregnant mother isand over age your life and interferes with your daily activities, work, get worse as the child ages. 35, smoking cigarettes and relationships. I read somewhere “The biggest Please that also keep in mind has a poorobstacle diet, the child is that heavy drinking during more likely to develop FAS. to productivity is connectivity,” but overuse can pregnancy can increase the If you affect believe that a your chances of a miscarriage child may have FAS, there lot more than our productivity. The truth is, overuse of our altogether. are a few things you can Please keep in mind that look for. phones can harm us psychologically, socially it is also dangerous to con- and1.physically. Alcohol was consume alcohol while breastsumed during of pregnancy, With regard to affecting ourfeeding/nursing social skills, how many us a baby. It especially during the first may not cause FAS as but itwe three monthson our miss out on a joke or good conversation were may affect their sleep/wake 2. They have abnormal pattern as slow downour facial featuresfriend such as those phones? How many times have weas well annoyed good weight and motor develop- mentioned above gain. posting on social 3. They have a growth or family member because wement were media deficiently – are they much how much fun we are having with It truly affects ourage? How isthem? FAS developed? smaller than those their Through the mother, the alcohol reaches the baby through the placenta, the or-

4. Do they have any central nervous system damage? SEE PAGE XXI

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World Snake Day are more than 3,500 species of snakes around the world? Because of this, it is not going to be a challenge for you to find a snake that fascinates you and interests you that you may not have heard of before, even if you are interested in snakes and you have a pet snake of your own! So, this is one of the good reasons why to research snakes and learn more about them on this date. After all, there is so much that you can learn! Of the 3,500 species of a snake around the world, there are only around 600 that

H AT ’ S your reaction when you see a snake? Most of us run away or try to find the closest stick or rock to kill it. From the time ‘Eve ate the apple’, snakes have had a bad reputation. These animals, however, are an important part of ecosystems, as snakes play both the predator and prey roles. They make for a healthy snack for hawks, eagles, weasels,

foxes and more. They also help control pest populations. Snakes also act as ‘ecosystem engineers.’ Rodents eat plant seeds, then snakes eat the rodents. This makes snakes secondary seed dispersers, helping plants find new places to grow. World Snake Day is an important day when it comes to increasing awareness about the different species of snakes all around the world.

This day is celebrated on July 16. GUYANA, as part of the South American continent, is swamped with rainforests and jungles, which has the type of terrain where snakes and other wildlife creatures thrive. It has been reported over time that this continent has some of the most dangerous, as well as some of the most enthralling snakes in the world. Why celebrate snakes? Did you know that there

are venomous. This is less than 25 percent of snakes! There are only 200 species of snake that pose a considerable risk to human life as well. Therefore, snakes are nowhere near as worrying or scary as we think they are. Of course, this does not mean that you should go up and start petting any snake that you come across! However, it is definitely something to think about. Perhaps we give these animals a much harder time than they deserve?

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Do you know that snakes are threatened all around the world? With the deteriorating situation of deforestation, climate change, and several other factors that are causSEE PAGE XXIII

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Fetal Alcohol... FROM PAGE XVIII If the child has three or more out of the following 4 criteria, it is strongly recommended that they go into their nearest health centre. How is FAS treated? FAS cannot be cured but can be managed. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the more progress can be made. Prescription medications may be beneficial as it lowers existing and additional symptoms which include aggression, lack of focus/ attention, inability to sleep or eat well, anxiety or depression. Physical therapy and early intervention also appear to lower the degree of FAS. Counselling has been

proven beneficial for those with FAS. Counselling and behavioural training that focuses on social skills, coping skills, lowering stress and anger management are a great help to the affected individual. Alternative, home treatments such as exercise, herbal supplements, relaxation therapies, yoga and massages have also proven effective. Creative art sessions have shown to help with attention, aggression and lowering stress overall. Those with FAS can live at home with their families but a large percentage requires dependent living which means inpatient treatment in a group centre or home. Seeing as though every child is different, it is

also recommended that you schedule an appointment at your nearest health centre to discuss the best way to deal with your specific case. If a child has developed FAS, studies show that there are a few protective factors that reduce the secondary symptoms of the condition. These include being diagnosed at an early age, living in a healthy, non-violent home, having a hobby such as art or music and participating in community activities. There is a fear that admission of consuming alcohol during pregnancy and breastfeeding can result in shame, guilt or judgement. Do not let that fear stop you from reaching out for help. Please go to your nearest

health centre if you feel your child is at risk for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001. 223-0009, 623-4444, 6007896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

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ng seven amazing women from the Women Anthologies. ost of Watch Radio NY requested an interasked him if it was okay for me to invite join me. I am sharing some excerpts from

Evan Phillips -- born in St Lucia, living in

towards being a Midwife of Purpose came f being broken, displaced, and rough this journey, I experienced a divorce, ate and got displaced r education administrator’s position. Coupled y were two major eclipses my life. An eclipse happens when you can r calling becomes greater than your current Through this process, you can transcend to a thinking where you can connect with your yourself as one with nature. blett – born in Guyana and living in NY began to have the real experience of dreamg my dream world alive. I was immediately interview with the agency where they tested in using Microsoft Office and typing speed.

Great friends are crucial throughout life One week later I completed my assignment with CTO and was now ready to move on to my next career move. I called Monique to let her know I was available as we agreed and she was so happy to have me start my first temporary assignment with Deutsche Bank. My first

assignment lasted two weeks, covering someone’s vacation. Due to my work ethic and desire to go the extra mile, I landed another assignment in the same department for six months, then another for three months, which finally led to my permanent position, allowing me to live a dream. Dr. Safeeya Mohamed – Trinidad We received the updates that the accident was horrific and that the victim was stuck in the car. The vehicle had to be cut open to get to the victim. It never occurred to me that my brother could be remotely involved. The next thing I remember, I was looking at the body of my brother covered in blood in a hearse. The strident, agonising scream of my mother in the A&E that early morning has not escaped my mind almost 17 years later as she howled “my son died, my son died, nobody’s helping us!” But nobody could, as his spirit departed at the point of impact. Up to this day, I ponder where the strength came from to navigate that night. Shanon Paar – Arizona

“Maybe the journey isn’t so much about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about unbecoming everything that isn’t you, so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place.”- Paulo Coelho LAST weekend was the first time I heard this quote and I found the meaning intriguing. I decided to take the last weekend in the first quarter of the year for self-care. I was sitting with my friend/sister Phillipa enjoying the beautiful sunset and chatting about various aspects of life and my upcoming 50th birthday celebration. I could not resist the urge to take a pic of the sunset I shared in this article. The I knewinthat I would in When I was six image years can change a matter ofbe minutes just like our lives. trouble I told my dad old I started school in Mesa, My mindbigdrifted to ifthe houses below the sunset and the what had happened. Arizona, so I began staying people occupying the houses.It was a the this for decades. I enjoy watching and with my mom I havesecret: been doing kind that could get me and her husband routineobserving people at airports, markets, restaurants, hospiintoofbig I didn’t ly. It was like going tals etc. from One thetrouble. things I missed about living in Barbados know muchBeach trouble,and butfocusing my attention heaven to hell. It was a horror is relaxing on how Brandon I wasn’t willing story that’s yet to be on writthe cruise ships untiltothey disappeared. So many lives “Shhhh... ten. While at grandma’s I big take on that boat a- chance. some happy, some sad, some enjoying Don’t tell anyone.” was filled with the love of honeymoon, some with terminal illnesses, etc. Every life a grandma and Jesus has daily. a story! Maybe it’s the trauma of my experience, for some On the other hand, at my My focus returned but to the person sitting next to me reason I still cannot rememmother’s house, I was and filledI told her how much I value our friendship and she howwas mutual. Mohamed Ali said “Friendwith Rock ‘N Roll, said drugsthe ber feeling often it thing happened, and inappropriate, wild sexis the hardest ship in thewhen world to explain. It’s not parties. Ultimately, from it started, or even when it something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned such an environment you can ended the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned imagine the kinds of abuse anything.” Penny Phakahi –South that mom’s house provided. A great friendship is priceless! Great friendships can Africa When I was 11 years old, inspire motivate you to grow I have had my share of into a better version grandma Shirley died and my you and of yourself. Phil knows how hectic stepdad left. My mom had turmoil and I strongly believethings can get with my schedule and itsheis gives these reminders that her theseme stints of constant turan emotional breakdown, so that for me tome relax and unwind. She does not moil that brought I ran away! I couldn’thome take is available allow me to this do anything far in myother life. than I waschill. We always watch any more. a classic movie. We listened to my raindrops on the roof, Andrea Edwards – born and perhaps is still in the music (from the Dee Gees, Neil Diamond, and Kenny Rogrefinery process. in Guyana, living in Florida ers) soursop ice cream, and so many other As a young girl, I grew As I sat in the back ofeat homemade invaluable experiences created. I encourage you to with one main were ambition, my dad’s Nissan Bluebird, I uplife value andwanting treasure to theget friends whofar add value to your life. If away, peered through the windows you don’taway havefrom suchthe friends in of your circle, please find some system at the images on and inspire thinking or theyou. box that the fence of the who Guy-challenge I amwe attracted to people with often find ourselves in.good hearts and who ana Botanical Gardens and others and that is how I connected with PhilApart from understanding Zoological Park. The care radioabout lipa, Raquel, Desiree and a few others. Phillipa myselfLorna, I always dared to blasted the popular be different, which was aof the same reason we calypso song “1985” by connected with my mom because constant struggle when sur- as a loving person a then-popular calypsonian. connected. She describes my mom rounded my also situations. I while chatting about I would have just celebrated with a pure heart.byThey connect grew husbands up under a and strictthey both were blessed with my sixth the deceased Christian with my birthday, quite oblivious husbands who loved family them until death. When we live our grandfather step granny, to the concept of time, buta certain lives way and we never die because of the lives we my passing mother lost her mom that song would not touched allow as while through. me to forget SEE XXV Let’s go back to PAGE the quote I started this column with. that it was 1985. We often hear about “becoming “ and maybe sometimes we should shift the focus on unbecoming. The quote said unbecoming everything that is not you. Too many people are not living their authentic lives which is unfortunate. Some people find themselves in jobs, careers and relationships that they absolutely hate. So even stop dreaming. I love this statement by George Bernard Shaw and made popular by Robert Kennedy. “Some men see things as they are, and say why. I dream of things that never were, and say why not” SEE PAGE XXIV

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World Snake... FROM PAGE XIX

ing a decline in the habitats of snakes, it is imperative that we collectively put to preserve their well-being. Snakes are found in every continent except Antarctica, in the sea, forests, deserts, prairies, and they even live among us sometimes. Snakes consume many different animals including insects, small rodents and frogs. Snakes eat their prey whole because their lower jaw can separate from the upper jaw. Some very large snakes can even eat small deer, pigs, monkeys, and even primates. Fortunately, snakes are not widely hunted. However, their numbers are still declining due to deforestation and climate change, which has, in turn, caused the deterioration of their habitats and fewer numbers of prey available.

Here are some interesting facts about these amazing creatures: Where do snakes live? Snakes are found in every continent except Antarctica in the sea, forests, deserts, prairies, and even your backyard or garage. What do snakes eat?

Snakes consume many different animals including insects, small rodents and frogs. Snakes eat their prey whole because their lower jaw can separate from the upper jaw. Very large snakes can even eat small deer, pigs, monkeys, and even primates. How do snakes behave? Snakes rely on the environment to regulate their body temperature. They spend as long in the warm

sun as they need to to get warm, and when they become too warm, they find shade to cool off. They are generally not aggressive unless they are hunting or feel as if they need to defend themselves. They shed their skin three to six times a year. How do they defend themselves? Snakes use a variety of techniques to defend themselves, including camouflage, biting and envenoming those they feel are threatening them. Sometimes they simply curl up in a tight ball to hopefully avoid being seen. Why are some snakes endangered? Fortunately, snakes are not widely hunted, but their numbers are still declining due to deforestation and climate change causing the deterioration of their habitats and a declining number of

available prey. As mentioned earlier, there are many different species of snakes, and so you can spend some time learning about them and their various qualities and features. For example, the Barbados thread snake is the smallest in the world. This serpent is actually smaller than a nightcrawler, coming in at only approximately four inches. In

terms of the heaviest snake, this honour goes to the green anaconda. The reticulated python is the longest snake in the world. If you spend some time doing a bit of reading, we are sure that you will be fascinated with the results. Snakes are beautiful creatures that need to be respected, and this can only be done once we learn and read more about these beauties.

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

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Great friends are crucial ... FROM PAGE XXII I have had conversations with people who are stuck because they are caught between what they think they are and what people are expecting them to be. Sometimes we need to unlearn things to make space for the things that will elevate us. We have so much going on around us that it can hinder our ability to focus at times, but the people around us who care can help us when we go off course. Great friendships

have a big impact on our mental health and can also relieve stress, provide a sense of belonging, and a major help in traumatic experiences. It would be great for you to engage in some reflective thinking regarding your friends and colleagues. You may discover you need to make a few changes for your own benefit. Sometimes a ship needs to adjust its sail on the journey and our lives can be like that. We have to give ourselves permission every

day to expand our world and rediscover our greatness. Permission to forgive and love ourselves and others no matter what! We also have to continue to find a way to serve humanity every day! Let’s focus on this quote by Dai Lima : “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive” - as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

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Volunteers in Guyana are burned out

I GREW up in a family that instilled selflessness and service within me, ever since I was a little girl. As such, at just the age of 16, I started to volunteer my time with organisations and agencies. I did this because I was willing and able to serve. Instead of idling, I used my time and energy towards executing community and developmental projects while volunteering for positions

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and roles in various organisations. The experiences were truly beneficial because they helped to shape me into the young woman I am today, but there’s a downside to volunteering that is hardly talked about. Volunteers can experience severe burnout from overworking. I don’t want this to take away from the positivity volunteering brings, but it makes no sense to have a country of

volunteers who try to take care of everybody else except themselves. What good will that do? Personally, that warm and tingly feeling you get after seeing how your efforts and work directly influenced the life of someone else is the most rewarding ever. Other volunteers will have their personal reasons for serving and giving back and of course, I hope you’re volunteering for all the right reasons. In the end, volunteers essentially give their service, their time and their energy towards a positive cause. Volunteering is needed in this developing country of ours, there’s no denying that. Nonetheless, it’s time for us to be honest and open with potential volunteers. I wish someone had enlightened me sooner. It wouldn’t have deterred me from volunteering, but I

would’ve simply been more prepared for the experiences I’m about to share with you all. As a teenager, I believed I had the ability and potential to change the world. Not much has changed from then to now, but back then my ideals were more broad and generic. I wanted my voice and my vision to be heard and so I joined established groups and organisations to get that done. I met some of the most stubborn, unaccountable, lazy, bigoted people you can find in the high chairs of these groups. Back then, I believed it was my job to “fix” the order of things, including how these “grown folk’’ behaved. It was painful to know that the livelihoods of Guyana’s people are in the hands of such leaders. The more I grew, the more I understood that it was not my place to fix adults. I also understood that I was fighting a system that was “broken” for years upon years in this country. People got comfortable with how things are in social service delivery and welfare and I made them uncomfortable with my views and positions on certain issues. I also endured the distastefulness of leaders being unappreciative SEE PAGE XXVIII

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Bridging educational disparities in a post-pandemic future XXVII

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Aye or no for parliamentary decorum?

RECENTLY, I was chatting with a group of friends and our conversation steered towards the ongoing Speaker’s Debating competition. I had managed to catch only one full debate, but I was keen on hearing the results of the youth from Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima- Waini). Few of my friends were awestruck (at least, I hope they were awestruck and not being prejudiced) that the hinterland had managed to win against a team of student leaders from the University of Guyana Students Society (UGSS). I was happy, too, but certainly not surprised. Part of my assurance that this team was one to look out DURING this engagement past week’sI edition ‘In National for was a prior had withof one of the the members, Assembly,’ Parliamentarians debated the 2021 National Keron Williams, last month. Williams had emerged as the Budget, which was presented earlier in the month top-performing CSEC student of Region One and by outSeof nior Minister in the Office(Regions of the President withEight, responsiall the hinterland regions One, Seven, and bility Nine).for finance, Dr. Ashni Singh. The debate, however, spotlighted a lack of decorum the Parliament. During an interview I did forinthe News Room, Williams It is both understandable and acceptable for the different emphasised that he was on a mission to showcase that stusides the house -- the government opposition sides -dentsoffrom the hinterland can excel and despite the challenges to have opposing views on the budget. After all, the national budget illustrates the government’s vision, priority areas, and general policy direction, since it points towards what policies, programmes and plans the government intends to use Guyana’s money to fund. It would be strange for each member to agree on every single thing, since various individuals have different priorities and views and perhaps different sides of the house have different plans, projects, or policies that would guide Guyana’s developments; and, that is completely fine. It is neither understandable nor remotely acceptable, however, for elected officials, sworn in as Members of Parliament (MPs), to openly hurl insults at each other and make racist, sexist, homophobic remarks. It is not acceptable they and thetolow expectationsin other people for thisface level of despite disrespect be entertained the National might have of them. Assembly. “People think thatofinracist, the hinterland that they The normalisation sexist, andregion homophobic recan’t in perform well andsocial that the secondary schools there are marks our common, spaces might be a conversation notanother successful at CSEC. I am change for day, every but foryear crying out loud, thistrying is ourtoNational that and show that hinterland students have the ability and Assembly! Or, our Parliament, as it is more commonly they also have the same knowledge and the same abilities called. It is not touting at the bus park! as Imagine [students]theoutastonishment there [on theone coast] have,” Williamsyears said would experience, in that interview. from now, if they were to revisit the hansards. Instead of year, when the resultsanalyses of the National Grade bilSix only Each well-articulated, thorough of the $383.1 Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Edulion budget that was presented for the year 2021, there would cation Certificate (CSEC) examinations announced, be remarks signalling homophobia or thinlyare veiled insults ofI try to focus on the performance of hinterland pupils and an MP’s reproductive capabilities. students. This is because bridging the educational disparities To be fair, however, there were a few salient presentabetween learners in the hinterland and learners on the coast tions. On the first day of the debate, it is a point of pride is something I would like to see happen in my lifetime, at that two women -- MPs Susan Rodrigues and Amanza the very least, due to my experiences travelling into the Walton-Desir who are also new Parliamentarians -- made hinterland regions. good presentations that one would expect at this forum. In Moruca, Region One, like many other hinterland Though thisinternet absence of decorum fromifmany of the communities, connectivity is rare, available at MPs,is perhaps, not a new occurrence in the local context, all. When I travelled to this community teachers and parents itlamented begs us to ourselves: valuable contributions are theask exorbitant costwhat of data to supplement children’s our elected officials making at this forum? learning and related that instead, they place much more emOne on would hope that by the Region people phasis textbooks and the pastleaders papers.elected In Aishalton, ofNine Guyana, government or opposition, would (Upperwhether Takutu-in Upper Essequibo), the same holds. maintain a certain level of decorum in the house. In Now picture this challenge faced, within the contextdisof charging their duties towards of the nation, at the the COVID-19 pandemic andthe thepeople need for a shift to virtual very least, In it is they would engage in critical learning. theexpected absence that of empirical data, can you simply analyses thehow budget. The budget debate should attempt to imagine of just significant the disruption faced by learners pinpoint deficiencies in allocations, or indicate what other would be? areasMost of priority should beare focused definitely, there pupilson. and students in coastal This is how you operate in a democracy, where but transregions who face these same connectivity problems, let parency accountability are underpinning This is us for aand second focus on those children who,tenets. collectively, how you with respect the sanctity of impact Parliament. above on all grapple a disproportionate of theAnd pandemic else, this how you adequately represent the people of the theiriseducation. nation you committed to serve? -- evThe disproportionate access Parliamentary to education isaffairs exacerbated ery should bethat geared the by single severalaspect-other challenges are towards faced byenhancing people living development of the nationincluding and its citizenry. in the hinterland regions, their access to services, Admittedly, clever innuendos and regions. witty remarks have generally; and the geography of these long Thankfully, been part of parliamentary presentations, not made only to in I believe that some efforts are being Guyana, but around the world. The addition of clever satire PAGE XXVIIIno doubt. Much of has its usefulness inSEE communication, what we saw last week, however, appeared to be a common bottom house or rumshop debacle, replete with “props” and

training of Parliamentarians so that a semblance of decorum could be maintained in the National Assembly. It is envisioned that such training sessions would also help to guide the officials on proper parliamentary procedures. But also, these events should force us to reconsider what we expect and accept from our elected officials -- all of them-- while they discharge their responsibilities towards us. Are they articulating our collective values when they make racist, sexist, homophobic, and other derogatory statements?

Are they adequately representing us and our best interests at all times? I hope we can do better. If you would like to discuss this column or any of my previous writings, please feel free to contact me via email: vish14ragobeer@gmail.com

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Bridging educational disparities ... FROM PAGE XXVII commence the process of bridging these disparities faced. This past week, the CSEC examinations got underway with the Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM) subject. And I was truly elated to see that the Wakapoa Secondary school in Region Two (Pomeroon- Supenaam) became a centre for CSEC examinations and that 12 students would be writing CSEC at the school for the first time, this year. What this does is allow greater access to education for these students who would no longer have to choose between going elsewhere or not attending school or sitting their examinations. This is evidenced in other hinterland regions,such as Region Nine, where students previously had to travel great distances to get to school, but now either have schools in their communities or dormitories in those communities where they go to attend school. Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, has acknowledged that the cohort of pupils and students writing this year’s NGSA and CSEC examinations are the first to write these high-stakes examinations after a prolonged period of pandemic conditions. For learners in the hinterland, even with the ministry’s attempts to provide textbooks, past papers, and educational materials, their challenges with internet connectivity cannot be overstated. Even so, I hope that they can perform exceptionally. At the end of these examinations, I am hopeful that when the results of this year’s NGSA are released, due diligence would be done to interrogate the data that will be collected to analyse the impact the pandemic had on children, but also the impact it has had specifically on children living in hinterland. The educational disparities have proven to be enduring and will require a greater level of focus than what was given this year, in an attempt to level the playing field. If you would like to connect with me to discuss this column or any of my previous works, feel free to email me at vish14ragobeer@gmail.com

Volunteers in Guyana are...

FROM PAGE XXVI

towards volunteers and their efforts. Many did not value the work I’ve been doing. I wasn’t seeking validation but it’s demotivating to work in environments that don’t reinforce your good work. This is just the tip of the iceberg, because I know many other colleagues who are pursuing similar paths and they all said the same thing—“we are burned out.” Eventually, all of this took a toll on my mental health and even my body. The hardest word to say as a volunteer is, “no.” Your head starts to explode with doubts and guilt about what would happen to the persons you serve if you pass on a task or event. Truth is, it’s better to refuse to do something because you’re not mentally or physically able to, rather than to do it when you’re unwell, because you might do more harm than good. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, remember that you are also a part of the very society you’re trying to heal. As such, when you’re busy being kind and helping others don’t forget to include yourself as well. You can’t give much from a half-filled cup, but if your cup is overflowing, there will be much to give. So, invest in yourself and take care of your health before investing your time into other people. It will reflect tremendously on the quality of the work you accomplish.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

THOUGHT FOR TODAY Now, is it to low er the price of co rn, or isn’t it? It is not much matte r which we say, bu t mind, we mus t all say the same. LORD MELBOUR NE (1779-1848) Attr. See Bageho t, The English Co nstitution, ch. 1

JULY 4, 2021 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome, dear friend. As you study for next year’s examinations you need to become well

equipped. Choose books and other learning tools well, as you will not use all in the same way. Some you need to buy because they are for long and intensive use. Others are indispensable even though they are needed occasionally like your dictionary. Practise the habit of relating to yourself what you learn as you learn. Also avoid late hours of study. Be wise. Love you. THE PASSAGE Pasteurisation The value of heat for the preservation of food has been known for thousands of years, but it was not realised until the nineteenth century that a very mild heat treatment far below the boiling point, made liquid foods such as milk keep much longer. The discovery followed the work of the French scientist Louis Pasteur on wine and beer. The process, called after him ‘pasteurisation’, is a carefully controlled mild heat treatment. It was found that the process served two purposes; it prevented the souring of milk, and it destroyed the dangerous disease germs which sometimes occur in this product. These germs include the bacteria which cause tuberculosis, undulant fever, typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, dysentery, diphtheria, scarlet fever and septic sore throat. It has long been known to bacteria experts that the tubercle bacillus is the germ in milk which most strongly resists heat treatment. To destroy this organism, it is necessary to heat the milk to about 60o C. for 15 minutes, and kits destruction has always been taken as a way of testing the efficiency of pasteurisation. A heat treatment of this kind destroys about 99% of the common bacteria in milk, including all those which cause milk to turn sour. Efficient pasteurisation may reduce the bacteria in raw milk from, say one million to only a few thousand per cubic centimetre. Getting ideas from the passage Say whether the following statements are true or

false according to the information given in the passage. 1. It was not until the nineteenth century that people realised that heat could help preserve food. 2. The French scientist Louis Pasteur worked on treating milk with heat long before treating wine and beer with heat. 3. Dangerous disease germs include only these bacteria which sometimes occur in milk product: tuberculosis, undulant fever, typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, scarlet fever and septic sore throat. 4. Without heat treatment, milk may be seriously harmful to health. 5. Pasteurisation served two purposes. 6. Pasteurisation destroys nearly all common bacteria in milk. 7. Dysentery is the germ in milk which mostly resists heat treatment. Vocabulary Find the following words in the above passage and then select the meaning you think is most likely to correspond among the choices given. 1. realised (first paragraph first sentence) A) proved B) understood C) put into practice D) sold for cash 2. mild (first paragraph first sentence) A) slow B) low C) strong D) kind 3. keep (first paragraph first sentence) A) save B) remain hot C) stay fresh D) preserve 4. served (second paragraph second sentence) A) obeyed B) fulfilled C) needed D) offered 5. taken (third paragraph second sentence) A) carried away B) accepted C) noted down D) stolen THE PASSAGE Read the passage below carefully and then answer all the questions that follow. Food overall offers an incomparable sensory experience. But with baked foods – desserts, pastries, pies, cakes – this experience is perfected, all the senses are

delighted, and the pleasure is somehow heightened by the small portions of these treats we consume, relative to other meal components. First, they smell like heaven. For many of us, long before we even begin to appreciate the other fine things, the power of baked goods holds sway, largely due to the aroma that wafts out of the neighbouring bakeries. It is a smell rich with promises. With baked goods you know that the source is quite likely be something edible. Good bread has a smell that makes you feel like you have walked into a warm room off a cold street. Cakes are a different matter entirely. Except for plain, wholesome sponge cakes, instead of comforting, the scent of some cakes can be quite maddening. Soaked in essence of spices, the scent bursts from them as ripe as fruits. Then there is sound. If you are not in the habit of listening to your cakes as they emerge from the oven, I do not know that there is much point in trying to explain the language of baked goods. Something between a sizzle and a bubble, it is a deeply satisfying sound that says, “I am here. I am ready. I will not disappoint.” (Adopted from “Not Bead Alone”, Caribbean Beat No. 67) a) According to the writer, what is the first thing people enjoy about baked foods? b) Name the particular kinds of baked foods described in the passage. c) Which expression in paragraph 2 suggests that many people cannot resist the overpowering smell of baked foods? d) List the senses to which the writer appeals in paragraphs 2 and 4. e) What is the promise of the source of the scent that baked foods offer from neighbouring bakeries? f) What does the scent of cakes make happen to us as stated by the writer? g) What is described as “something between a sizzle and a bubble” in the last paragraph?

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021

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CAVITATIONS CAVITATIONS are a relatively new term in the dental dialogue. Most patients are not aware of cavitations, and even many dentists may not know much of them as yet. Cavitation is a hole in the bone, usually where a tooth has been removed and the bone has not been filled in properly. When a tooth is being extracted, in what has been a normal dental procedure, the surrounding periodontal membrane is usually left behind. Theoretically, when a tooth is pulled, the body will eventually fill in space in the bone where the tooth was. But when the membrane is left behind, incomplete healing can take place which leaves a hole or spongy place inside the jaw bone. Experts speculate that perhaps this is because the bone cells on either side sense the presence of the periodontal membrane and “think” that the tooth is still there. Cavitation can form in any bone in the body, not just in the jawbones. There are also other reasons that cavitations form, some of which are localised form, some of which are localised traumas, poor circulation to the area, clotting disorders and the use of steroids. Viewing an x-ray of an extracted tooth site, this membrane can form an image that appears to be a shadow of a tooth. Almost always, this is an indicator of cavitation. Most dentists can be aware of this phantom tooth image, but they generally do not recognise it as a site for potential problems. Inside cavitation, bacteria flourish and deviant cells multiply. Cavitations act as a breathing ground for bacteria and their toxins. Research has shown these bacterial waste products to be extremely potent. Cavitations can also cause blockages on the body’s energy meridians and exert a far-reaching impact on the overall system. Investigations reveal that some cavitations even serve as reservoirs of huge amounts of mercury emitted by many silver fillings which the patient may have at the time when the tooth was extracted. Some researchers believe that cavitations may be a source of low-level or high-level stress on the entire body. Diagnosing cavitations is an elusive process because cavitations do not always readily appear on X-rays. Sometimes they show up only as very subtle differentiations in the texture pattern of the bone. If your dentist is not specifically looking for the cavitations, then your x-ray will be read as looking “just fine.” There are other ways to discover cavitation sites. For example, they will sometimes cause pain when the area is lightly stroked or when pressure is applied. There is a new instrument, similar to a sonogram, which will be coming out on the market soon that will detect these cavitations easily. The most common place to find cavitation is the third molar area – the area where the wisdom teeth are removed. Because so many of the body’s major organs are on the wisdom toothy meridian, cavitations in this area are particularly worrisome. While cavitations can be caused by the removal of teeth, this does not necessarily mean that you should not have teeth removed. However, the dentist should clean out the periodontal ligament if it remains attached, and any infection that is present, as part of the normal procedure. By doing this, the wound will have the greatest chance of healing normally, giving the patient no further difficulty.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 4, 2021