Chronicle Pepperpot 01-24-2021

Sunday, January 24, 2021

Community Health Worker, Nurse Lucian Harry (Delano Williams photo)

‘Doing the job you love is fulfilling’ - Community Health Worker of Morashee Village

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

‘Mudheads’ make clay bricks for construction

By Francis Quamina Farrier THERE is a well-known saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Not so well-known is the saying (My saying) “When life gives you MUD, make Clay Bricks.” As a boy growing up in the colony of British Guiana, in the years immediately after the Second World War, (The mid-1940s into the 1950s), I constantly heard immigrants, especially from the West Indian islands, refer to us Guianese as “Mud Heads,” because the first area of the colony they set foot on was usually the mud of the coastlands. Guianese in turn called the West Indian immigrants, “Palawallas.” It was all in a friendly way. My own father who came to British Guiana from Grenada, was, of course, a “Palawalla.” So what was the origin or reason for that word “Palawalla?” It was because of the way the immigrants from the English-speaking Eastern Caribbean to British Guiana spoke, which was sort of as though they had water in their mouths making a sort of gargling sound - English mixed with French -”palawalla.” So the Guianese coined

This impressive clay brick building located on Brickdam in Georgetown was once used as a Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall (photo by F. Q. Farrier)

that word, “Palawalla.” That was a part of the beginning of my rich groundings as a “Caribbean Man.” The thing about my father is, because he was a teacher in Grenada before venturing out to find El Dorado in South America, he brought his knowledge with him. However, because there is so much mud on the coastland of Guyana, and being an innovative people, Guianese used some of our mud to make clay bricks for construction. There is evi-

dence of clay bricks being used for construction well over a century ago. The relic of a koker located at the junction of Camp and Cowan Streets in Georgetown bears such evidence. In more recent years, buildings such as the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) buildings, the northeast section of the Georgetown Public Hospital and the National Cultural Centre are prime examples. All of them are still around decades after their construction and

looking as good as new after so many decades. Sadly, the making of clay bricks in a big way and their use for construction is no longer done as much as in years gone by. To find out more how Guyanese of this era view clay bricks for construction, I posted on Facebook the three-storey clay brick building which is located on Middle Street in Georgetown, near to Main Street. Here now are samples of the responses received.

This century-old clay-brick koker, located at Camp and Cowan streets in Georgetown, is no longer functional but bears testimony to the longevity of clay bricks in construction (photo by F.Q. Farrier)

COMMENTS ABOUT THE USE OF CLAY BRICKS Ulric Trotz: “Clay bricks are a preferred building material to cement blocks, as cement manufacturing is one of the most polluting materials in that the process releases carbon dioxide (Greenhouse gas) into the atmosphere.” Ralph Seeram: “They were built at a time when emphasis was on self-reliance. Most of NIS and other

government buildings were built of clay bricks and still standing strong. If Guyanese did it then with less resources, they can resuscitate it today.” Bernard Stuart: “Part of my house is made of clay bricks that I bought many years ago from the factory at West Demerara. Over the years all the (concrete) walls cracked except the clay bricks sides.” Berkley Wickham: “The See Page V

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

‘Humble servant’ is a humanitarian par excellence

By Frederick Halley

HUMANITARIANS have distinct personalities. They are social individuals, which means they’re kind, generous, cooperative, patient, caring, helpful, tactful and friendly. They are conscientious and also excel at socialising and helping others. Guyanese-born Virjanand Jaglall, popularly known in the Toronto community as “Joe Jaglall” possesses most, if not all of the above traits. In an exclusive interview with the Pepperpot Magazine, Jaglall was quick to point out that he considers himself “a humble servant and never looked for anything in return. My blessings come as an opportunity to be in a position to help others because of my passion for working with people, regardless of differences.” Jaglall was recently rewarded for his untiring efforts by the Guyana 50th Republic Anniversary Committee for “Leadership in Volunteerism and Community Service, presented to persons who have made significant contributions to their communities through their time, actions, talents and dedication (outside any volunteer work done for their employer).” According to the committee, the awardees in that category have shown consistent and sustained commitment and professionalism to community projects and have consistently applied leadership skills over an extended period of time. A committed devotee to volunteerism and charitable work around the world and a role model to many, Jaglall, who is also a Hindu Pandit, is well respected amongst his peers and dedicates his time to the needy. He respects and creates good humour and as a leader, he demonstrates the importance of humanitarianism and selfless service. Over the years, Jaglall has partnered with many organisations to raise funds for the needy and vulnerable members of the community. Some of the organisations and causes that have benefited tremendously from his voluntary services are the Vedic Cultural Centre in Markham; the Peel Arya Samaaj Mandir and Cultural Centre; the Shiva Mandir in Scarborough,

the Seva4life Canada Inc.; the Humanitarian Mission of Port Mourant, Guyana; the Vedanta Academy in Bush Lot, Berbice, Guyana; the Children’s Orphanage in Cornelia Ida, Guyana; Shiva Mandir

Jaglall also worked at the Guyana Consulate in Toronto for just over a year from 2012 and according to him, “it was his most gratifying job because he was giving back to his beloved motherland.” Even after his sojourn

Joe Jaglall

in Scarborough; Youths training camps, both in Guyana and Toronto; the Shiv Sewa Sangh Mandir in Scarborough; the Panwar Dance Academy of Greater Toronto Area; the Sangeet Vidyalaya Vedic Cultural and Educational Centre Inc.; the Maha Rudradev Mandir and Cultural Centre in Scarborough and The Guyana Festival, Toronto, among others. For over six years, Jaglall and Pandit Devanand Ramoutar along with several youths, have been part of a musical band, The Gems Of Toronto, and have been performing for charitable organisations. The youths have since grown to assume the leadership of the band. In January, 2019 Jaglall led a special committee, to raise funds to assist Jessica Motilall, a victim of domestic abuse and violence. She has since recovered and is back to her regular activities at school and in the Toronto community. A Master of Ceremony in his own right, Jaglall has been emceeing concerts across Toronto for more than 30 years and has never charged a dime for his services.

there, he continued to volunteer and offer his services as needed with the Consulate’s outreach programmes. A member of the Festival Committee, Jaglall spearheaded the last Inter-faith and Cultural Programme and was the Committee’s Co-Chair for the 50th Jubilee Republic Interfaith Celebrations. He also hosted the 50th Jubilee Republic Virtual Award and Cultural Ceremony held last month. Jaglall hails from Number 66 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, Guyana. Born to humble rice-farming parents (Jeet and Savi), Joe is one of five children. According to him, he was exposed to community work at an early age through his uncle, the late Pandit Budhram Mahadeo. Jaglall regularly attended the Number 64-66 Arya Samaj Mandir and was very active in the local Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO). He pointed out that these two organisations, coupled with support from his parents, moulded him with a sense of duty and fulfilment; thus, when he migrated to Canada in 1982, within the first week he met the late Sash Sawh (former Minister of Agriculture in Guyana) at the temple

and there and then became a member of the Association of Concerned Guyanese (ACG). Joe continued with his community work both socially and religiously, while working in the factory to help sustain his family in Canada. A prominent member of Serv4 Life Canada, its president Roy Sugrim described Jaglall “as an individual who dedicates a tremendous amount of his time to community services and helping others. He is a very responsible volunteer and has been a huge asset to our organisation for a number

of years.” According to Sugrim, “he has assisted us in various capacities, including planning, execution and leadership in many of our community-based activities. His passion, commitment and extremely high intelligence in his community work make him an ideal leader in our organisation and the community at large. “He is very physically and academically able which he utilises when setting up events that help those in need. He has worked closely with the president and other executive members of Serv 4 Life

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Canada Inc and played an integral role as an ambassador for the organisation.” Currently a Real Estate Agent along with his son, Jaglall attended Seneca College and in 1989 obtained a Diploma in Fashion. He later gained his licence in Insurance sales, Mutual Funds securities licence and subsequently his Branch Manager Licence. Before that, he started the First Arya Samaj Internet Radio and as the host, he intended to bring into focus, culture, values and prayer in helping to mould peaceful individual lives.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

‘Look to fill a need when starting up a business’

– Young entrepreneurial couple says STARTING a business was no uphill task for Kortel and Dawn Hiles as they simply thought about the skills they already possessed and the tools that

Apart from having the skills and tools needed for the job, Kortel and Dawn also realised that many businesses did actually need for cleaning and maintenance services.

Carpet-cleaning by Atlantic Fix

they already had on hand. Granted, things started slowly, but the couple was convinced that there was potential for growth in the field and hence decided to stick with it. It was roughly two years ago that Kortel and Dawn started Atlantic Fix, a cleaning and maintenance business that sees the likes of lawn-mowing and property maintenance, power washing, AC repairs, among other services. Although the couple had never been into business before, it wasn’t hard to determine what type of industry would be most suitable. They made it simple for themselves by choosing something that they already had certain advantages to. Being new parents, the main goal in deciding to start a business was to have more control over their time. “Due to the fact that we wanted to give our child the amount of attention he needs…we thought about the idea of managing our own business. Since I already had some tools and qualifications as an Air Condition Technician, a property-maintenance service seemed ideal,” Kortel told the Pepperpot Magazine a few days ago.

“Seeing that need kind of pushed us more to get started,” Kortel recalled. Dawn also has the benefit of some Canada-based training, which she said comes in very handy and helps her conduct her work in a thorough and organised manner. She shared: “The custom is to shift everything around before you get to cleaning. But Dawn’s presence on work assignments is especially appreciated by her husband

you start from the ceiling; then to the back of the room, work your way out and then continue in three waves, being dusting and vacuuming, wiping and mopping, and then packing back the things.” At first, the couple did feel some degree of anxiety and nervousness, especially as things started slowly. “But as we got the word out, it did pick up in time and we slowly progressed. We know there is potential for growth and we believe in starting small and building as we go along, so that we can eventually take on larger projects,” Kortel said. The couple would regularly recruit independent contractors to assist with their work, and Dawn believes that this group of workers helps to set the business apart. “Our group of part-time workers is dedicated to giving their best, even if it means giving a little more time. When we leave a job, we leave it in good taste; the client should want to call us again,” she offered. The couple also tries to have a good relationship with clients, so that they can be comfortable enough to express themselves and what it is that they really want out of the job. Says Kortel: “Sometimes we have to go above and beyond to please our clients and we are willing to do so,

Kortel and Dawn Hiles

because we care about them. We tell clients all the time that our prices are not set in stone, so we work with their circumstances.” As for some advice he’d like to offer to those thinking of setting up a business, Kortel says: “Try to find and fill a need. Don’t be afraid. Sometimes others may give you a vibe or a negative feedback, saying that you won’t be able to succeed, but take the step and be bold. Even when you face setbacks, be persistent and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.” He is especially grateful for the support that his wife provides and enjoys every moment working along with her on their projects. “When Dawn is not there on important projects, you feel as if you’re missing an important piece. She has certain strengths that only she has and that are needed for large projects. One time we did a project and she wasn’t there and in my mind, I knew

that she had to be there, so I called her and told her to come immediately. As soon as she came, it was like a 360 turn around on that project.” Meanwhile, some of the other services that Atlantic Fix offers in the line of domestic and commercial clean-

ing are window-cleaning, office-cleaning, carpet-cleaning, terrazzo-cleaning, and refrigeration services. Kortel and Dawn usually use their social media platforms to get in touch with persons who may be interested in their services.

An office refrigerator gets a thorough cleaning

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

The challenges facing mental health issues in Guyana By Dillon Goring In light of the novel coronavirus pandemic, there have been and continue to be challenges regarding the issue of mental health worldwide. It can be argued that the effects of the pandemic have led to many persons falling victim of poor mental health practices, stemming from a multiplicity of reasons, including the loss of a job and the inability to maintain and sustain one’s family, or other resulting difficulties. According to a study conducted by the Centre for Diseases Control in the United States, it was reported in January of 2018, that 1 in 5 Americans will experience mental illness in a given year. The study further indicated that 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Pepperpot Magazine spoke Shane Tull, a Guyanese clinical psychotherapist, who resides in the United States of America who revealed that to deal with

Guyana’s poor mental health practices, there need to be treatment facilities set up that address mental health. He also noted that training of various mental health personnel in dealing with poor mental health practices is crucially important with mental health cases. Tull was careful to mention that persons who are affected by mental health

people dealing with mental health issues, particularly men [are needed]. This also includes a safe space for men to speak freely,“ Tull told Pepperpot Magazine. In the national plan for mental health that was set out by the previous administration of the Guyanese Government for the period 2015-2020, it was revealed that there is no health without

orders increase the risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases and contribute to unintentional and intentional injuries. Mental health, like other aspects of health, can be affected by a range of socioeconomic and psychological factors that need to be addressed through comprehensive strategies for promotion, prevention, treatment and recovery.

Shane Tull, US-based Guyanese clinical psychotherapist

diseases must be equipped with the skills to manage their lives after therapy. “Support groups for

mental health. The relationship between physical and mental health is multifaceted. Mental dis-

In May 2012, the Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly adopted resolution WHA65.4 on the global bur-

den of mental disorders and the need for a comprehensive, coordinated response from health and social sectors at the country level. In light of this call to action, mental health was given prominence in the service priorities of the National Health Sector Strategy 2013-2020 which has as its vision “that the people of Guyana are among the healthiest in the Caribbean and the Americas”. This plan, which was developed jointly by the Mental Health Team of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) Guyana, presents the justification and advantages of providing a national mental health strategy in Guyana. At the same time, it outlines strategic actions on how to implement and scale-up interventions and primary care services for mental health. The National Mental Health Strategy 2015-2020 was informed by wide stakeholder consultation which included representatives from civil society, Government Ministries, NGO’s, health

administrators, general health professionals, and community and institutional-based mental health care providers. Complex socio-cultural factors and the presence of a mental disorder are likely very significant attributable risk factors and have contributed to a high prevalence of deaths and injuries due to violence and accidents; as well as a cycle of mental health issues including selfharm, depression and anxiety disorders. Risk factors for mental illness in Guyana are related to environmental, lifestyle practices, biological and psychosocial factors which include, social class, gender, racial conflicts, housing, occupational risks, access to services, smoking, limited national policies, globalization, macroeconomics, national politics and urbanization. The factors that characterise the Guyana mental health systems and, services, the scope of legislations and inadequate human resources which make services inaccessible to the population are also issues that are discussed.

‘Mudheads’ make clay ...

From Page II

clay bricks were manufactured at the Bel-Lu clay brick factory located at Canal Number 2, West Bank Demerara. Clay bricks were also used on secondary roads, some which still exist. The factory was a gift to Guyana from China. It is sad that we no longer produce these items. We never seem to celebrate our own heritage and

always look elsewhere.” Derek Kowlessar: “Sadly we stopped doing this a long time ago at the factory we had, but we have talent and resources.” Carlton Joao: “And thanks to innovative architects like George Henry, who used the material extensively in his designs. NIS Headquarters on Brickdam. Do

you know we now import clay blocks from the Caribbean?” Michael Persaud: “I cringe when I see those imported clay bricks. Pity the man who does not produce his own food.” Covergirl Tait: “I wish more Guyanese would love and appreciate ourselves and our abilities.” James Albert Burke: “Folks will continue to use concrete blocks because they are easier to make and are cheaper. Obviously clay is superior, lighter, better heat-insulating more preferred. Currently, for those who can afford it, clay blocks are imported from Trinidad.” Roshan Khan “The clay brick factories should never have been sold out. They should never have been sold.”

This three-storey clay brick building is located on Middle Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown (photo by F. Q. Farrier)

ANY FUTURE FOR CLAY BRICK MANUFACTURING?

The Palm Tree cinema at Wismar, Linden, Region 10. The roof is no longer there, but the clay brick walls remain intact (Photo by F.Q. Farrier)

History has revealed that clay bricks have been a material of choice for construction here in Guyana for well over a century. Should such an enterprise be reconsidered and reacti-

vated, it would be a means not only for construction, but also as another source for jobs for young people. Should a member of the private sector or the public sector consider clay brick manufacturing a viable en-

terprise in the future? Back to the future, as it were. At least the raw material is abundant - mud. And even though Guyanese are no longer referred to as such, we are still loving, innovative, patriotic MUDHEADS.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

Morashee Village welcomes development

By Michel Outridge

This week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the riverine villages of Morashee, Quarter Benabo and Lower Bonasika, Essequibo River. Morashee Village is located on the mainland, right bank of the Essequibo River and it is home to about 21 families of Indo-Guyanese and Amerindian descent. This village can be accessed over land and water but it is more accessible by boat since most residents have moved further inland

Leonard Harry (Delano Williams photos)

rather than at the riverfront as they previously did. Morashee Village, overland is very difficult since

there are no paved roads, only a mud dam which is very slippery during rainfall season and it is almost inaccessible. There is no village leader in this community which is remote and it is about 45 minutes by boat from Parika, East Bank Essequibo. Morashee Village is home to farmers, labourers, miners, security guards, teachers, nurses and fishermen. It is the home of ground provisions, plantains, bananas and varying cash crops which are sold at both Hubu

The Landing at Morashee Village

Koker and Parika to wholesale buyers. It is a small community that has over the years become much like a “ghost town” because many people left in search of a better life and to access high schools for their children. Some have left their houses without looking back and it is covered in thick bushes and the place is like a large swamp. Villagers, at times, make their way around using a small trail to get from one point to another but the easiest way is via boat or through the canal where a lot of people would use their makeshift paddle boats. Morashee Village is home to the Henrys and Williams most of whom settled there from the North West District (NWD) Region One (Barima/Waini) and became farmers, security guards and miners. This village has a nursery and primary school housed in one building, a flat concrete edifice and also has the head teacher’s living accommodation, a flat concrete house which is overrun by maribuntas and termites, including wood ants. Next door, is the Morashee Health Post managed by only a Community Health Worker, who resides at Bendroff, the neighbouring village. Most people would meet up at this location which is located closest to the Essequ-

ibo River and has a landing, since there is no community centre or village office for events or village gatherings. The people are very simple and lead an equally simple life which they describe as being difficult since they don’t enjoy some things and services like most villages.

that he works every day, seven days a week without having a day off and is attached to Sentinel Security Service and the monthly salary is often late. He lives about 15 minutes away and would make the journey to and fro via his small boat using a paddle. When the tide is high

Residents of Morashee Village

The Pepperpot Magazine braved the heavy rainfall coupled with strong winds to talk to a handful of villagers, who had gathered awaiting the arrival of the team. One of those that waited despite the rain was Leonard Harry, one of the surviving elders of the village. He is the security guard attached to the Morashee Nursery and Primary School, who has been there for about over a month. The 86-year-old stated

Morashee Nursery/Primary School

it takes longer, like half an hour but he would try to make it home in one piece when his shift is over. “Life is not easy here because we don’t have a lot but we try to use what we have and there is need for development in the community,” he said. Most of the elders of this community passed away and some relocated to other parts of Guyana but Harry is one of the only persons his age.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

The people of Morashee Village

Hopeful for a better life and facilities

By Michel Outridge Adella Phang is a resident of Morashee Village, East Bank Essequibo and has been living on the mainland for four years. She is a security guard attached to the Morashee Health Post and works the day shift. The 52-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that travelling to and from the health post is challenging because she has to wade through mud in a swamp-like environment. The mother of four said she was forced to secure a small boat with a paddle she would use to get home from the health post after work. She has been attached to the Morashee Health Post

Adella Phang (Delano Williams photos)

on it heavily. She works the 07:00hrs to 16:30hrs shift every day without a day-off. The village farmer Meanwhile, the Pepperpot Magazine met a farmer,

Sherwin Williams

for the past two years and has been trying with the situation of being paid late every month. Phang stated that the security job is her main and only source of income for her family and she depends

Rabindra Singh, a local, who has spent most of his life in Morashee Village The 59-year-old reported that he has some lands which are often flooded but would plant cash crops, bananas, plantains to sell to make a

living. Singh stated that he has been farming for the 35 years and disclosed that the community needs a lot since there is not much there to enhance the lives of the people. The nearest Secondary School is at Salem/Parika and it is a journey by boat then minibus, a cost is incurred by the parents, most of whom can barely afford to put food on the table. Singh pointed out that he would at times take his produce via boat to Hubu Koker or Parika to sell when the harvest is bountiful but with the rainy season, it is not so at present. He disclosed there is no electricity, no potable water, no internet services, just cell phone service which is poor and there are no roads in the village, just dams and swamp. “To get here, I walked about a mile and a half through a muddy trail so you can image the conditions here but we try to make it and it’s not easy,” he said. The security guard The Pepperpot Magazine met another villager, Sherwin Williams, a security guard attached to the Mora-

Rabindra Singh, the farmer

shee Health Post. The 39-year-old stated that he has been a security guard for the Health Post for three years and has been living in Morashee for the same amount of years. Williams is married to a local and they have a daughter. He is originally from

North West District, Region One (Barima/Waini) but relocated to be closer to his family, his mother has been residing at Morashee for a while. “We are not well off people here as you can see the condition we live in and when it rains how this place is wet and muddy so we de-

pend on our salary at the end of the month which is late by months and it is not easy because I still have to work and support a home,” he said. Williams added that when they do decide to pay he has to find his way to Ruby Village where they have a small office to collect his salary. Apart from the challenges, Williams said he is never late for work and is at the location seven days per week. He cannot afford to buy a solar panel yet so he has no lights at night in his home and it is frightening because of the wild animals around. Williams is one of the six families that benefitted from the government initiative for the COVID-19 relief cash grant and he is pleased to be a beneficiary.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

Self empowerment in Morashee Village Young women seeking skills training

By Michel Outridge Kensha Williams is a young resident of Morashee Village, East Bank Essequibo who said the village is large but the population is very small since a lot of people left because the village is accessible only by boat due to the mud dam. The 17-year-old reported that a lot of parents found it costly to send their children to school via boat so they relocated to other areas which have schools nearby and to get better facilities. In the section where she lives, there are only 10 families, most of whom are relat-

Kensha Williams (Delano Williams photos)

ed and they find it difficult to leave their village because it is not pocket-friendly. “Opportunities in this village doesn’t present itself so we have to go out to look

for things to do to empower ourselves to learn a skill or trade to make a living as we grow out of school,” she said. She is a student of Parika/ Salem Secondary School

and has been home since the pandemic last year and is looking for a job. Williams has three brothers and three sisters, most of whom are adults and due to difficulty of not getting jobs, her brothers had to venture to the interior for work as miners. She is a local of Morashee Village who spent all her life in this riverine community and would only go out when it is worthwhile.

The Pepperpot Magazine met another young lady, Magnleine Harry, who has a bubbly personality and was seated among some villagers at the Morashee Health Post. The 17-year-old stated that she is from Bendroff Village, which is next door and she is doing the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) cosmetology classes at Fort Island, Essequibo River. She goes to classes five

days per week and so far, it has been quite interesting because she is learning and she likes it. The next step is to learn about being a nail technician and a hairdresser. Nevila Harry stated that she is also attending BIT classes and is very interested in cosmetology, a skill she will acquire and open her own small business to earn. The 15-year-old reported

that the classes takes up their time during the day and it is very good and gives her something to do. She has been at classes for the past two months. Then there is Tiffany Williams who spends her time reading and listening to new music. The 18-year-old said she is also attending BIT classes at Fort Island, Essequibo River, some distance away and is only accessible by boat. She has three sisters and three brothers, all of whom are grown and are seeking employment. “Attending this beautician classes has given me hope of having my own small business one day and that is reassuring because here there is nothing to do except be a farmer and I want to do something with my life,” she said. Harry believes that the classes will help her to realise her true potential since she has never been exposed to any formal training and she is of the hope she will be successful. The young ladies of Morashee Village

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

Making the best of limited resources By Michel Outridge This week the Pepperpot Magazine also visited Quarter Benabo Island, one of the 365 islands in the Essequibo River and Lower Bonasika Creek, which is a tributary of the Essequibo River. Quarter Benabo Island is 20 minutes via boat from Fort Island and it is home to eight families, who are cash crop farmers, cattle and livestock farmers, fishermen and other skilled folk. The island is very large but it is like a swamp with no drainage and irrigation for the water to recede off

Mahadeo Teehal

Rookmin (only name)

Rena Ramrattan

the island which makes it inaccessible for walking. Quarter Benabo Island is the home of plantains, bananas, ground provisions, citrus, fruits and cash crops.

The water coconuts on this island hold a lot of water, from one coconut you can get three and a half glasses of fresh water to indulge. Any movement around this island is by boat and the people are very friendly and welcoming. There is no potable water supply, no electricity, no internet services or cable but the internet can be accessed via cell phones. The nearest health post is at Morashee across the river from Quarter Benabo Island and people would utilise the services there and also at Fort Island Health Centre. This island doesn’t have

a village leader of a Community Development Council (CDC) but the residents said during the rainy season it is challenging for them because the place is very wet, inaugurated and muddy and the cows would get stuck for days. Hard work pays off One of the eight residents of this island is Mahadeo Teehal better known

as “Tony”, who is a farmer of cash crops, livestock, cattle and very much an all-rounder, who does multiple jobs to ensure his family are well taken care of. The father of five told the Pepperpot Magazine that 26 years ago he relocated to Quarter Benabo Island when his grandfather passed away. His grandfather passed away 35 years ago and there was a house but it was old

and the building was just sitting there, rotting away. It was years after Teehal decided to move there with his family and start his life anew. Teehal reported that back then the place was overrun by thick jungle and he had a lot of clearing to do to build up the land to what it is today because when the tide is high the place would be flooded. He added that before he relocated to the island and settled he was living in Lower Bonasika Creek and he did some logging then and that’s how he met his wife, who is from Baboon Hole Island. Teehal used to visit Baboon Hole Island to cut logs and it was there he saw the woman who would later become his wife. The 48-year-old is the father of four boys and one girl

Residents of Quarter Benabo Island (Delano Williams photos)

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‘Doing the job you love is fulfilling’

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

- Community Health Worker of Morashee Village

By Michel Outridge Lucian Harry has an important job as the only Community Health Worker attached to the Morashee Health Post and is a resident of the nearby village of Bendroff, East Bank Essequibo. At 19 years old, she has a lot of responsibilities including, manning the health post all by herself and tending to patients, five days per week. Although patients aren’t many, when they do show up they are very sick and needs immediate medical attention. The cases she cannot handle she would refer the patients to Parika Health Centre for further treatment. Harry told the Pepperpot

Magazine that she would collect a monthly supply of drugs from the Regional Hospital at Best Village, Region Three (Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara) and also ensures the place is clean and well-kept for patients. For this riverine nurse, some days are better than others because when she has a lot of patients she has to work to make sure they are all treated before leaving the health facility. Harry would commute by boat with a paddle through an internal canal to Morashee Health Post on Mondays to Fridays. It takes about 20 to 30

minutes to paddle via the canal to the Health Post. Harry disclosed that when a patient shows up at the facility she would triage that person first and then listen to their health complaint before

administering any medication. If she has drugs and can deal with the patient she will if not she will refer that person to Parika Health Centre. Harry has all the protocols in place for COVID-19 and everyone must wear a face mask before entering the health post.

She has her protective gear but so far, haven’t encountered anyone with COVID-19. However, every fourth Thursday of the month a doctor would visit and that is when they have clinics so there is an influx of patients. Harry has been at the location since August last year and is liking her job very much because she likes to help people. Her parents are from North West District and she has nine siblings. The Morashee Health Post offers a wide range of services and they have the relevant drugs in stock in a secured room. The facility has a doctor’s office, a stock room, toilet facilities, water tank, examination room and a room for the nurse plus the triage area. Most illnesses she would see are patients with seasonal cold and flu, fever, skin infections and chronic diseases. To get to the health post one must do so via boat and when riverine people get ill they would utilise the services and Nurse Harry would willingly assist to make them better. She would often go beyond the call of duty to help sick people and would come

Lucian Harry with patients at the Morashee Health Post out her house at nights to as- since I was a young girl sist people in need of medical growing up so it is a dream come true for me and I am attention. “I like my job because it very pleased to serve my is what I wanted to do ever community,” she said.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

Making the best of ... From Page IX

and has one granddaughter and they live in an extended family setting with his wife’s ailing mother, who has a small cottage nearby. “My sons would assist me to do a lot and they hold their own with their boat in which they would use to transport cows from one point to another, on hire and they would help take care of the livestock and poultry and also lend a hand on the farm,” he said. Teehal stated that life on the island is not ‘a bed of roses’ but with hard work, life can be comfortable although they don’t have the facilities needed to enhance their lives. He added that they use solar or generator and to move around via boat it is quite costly to buy gas but they have no other choice. ‘To survive on this island you have to work with yourself so I have my farm, mind a few cows, sheep, ducks, and chickens because you have to do more than one thing to make it financially,” he explained. Teehal told the Pepperpot Magazine that the island is transported lands owned by his grandfather which was landed down to him and he has 26-acres of land behind his house, which he built from scratch. He disclosed that he invested a lot to upkeep the place and to have it as it is today with a landing and everything. “It took me 10 years to get this place to my liking and it wasn’t easy but I am proud of my achievement and happy that my children are with me and they assist me a lot in keeping this place tidy,” he said. Teehal revealed that his children are his greatest asset

because they work with him and they are very willing children, who still honour him to date. As for drinking water, he reported that they would store rainfall water in black tanks but when the dry season is on they have to use river water to do chores and buy drinking water. Teehal added that being self-employed is the best option for him although it is hard work and no day off it is better because they do things

Teehal’s mother-in-law is Rookmin (only name) and she is 69 years old, an elder on the island, who is not in good health for some time. She is from Baboon Hole Island but came to live with her daughter after falling ill and she is being cared for by her daughter and granddaughter. Teehal’s wife, Rena Ramrattan is a very quiet but friendly woman, who is always in the kitchen cooking from her fireside and keeping

Vivian Ramrattan, his wife, Dularie (seated) with their family.

the way they prefer. He pointed out that they eat farm-fresh, organic fruits and vegetables from the farm and they would use chickens from the back yard to use in the kitchen so they hardly ever buy things for cooking since they use whatever they have. Teehal however, would like to have an internet hub on the island because they have a lot of school-age children, who do not have access to the internet as such they are left behind in terms of school work.

the place clean. She only goes to Parika to do shopping every two weeks and enjoy the quiet island life which is breezy and scenic,

their house overlooks the Essequibo River. Being a housewife, Ramrattan said she would get up early to prepare meals for the family before they go off to work and ensure there is

always food in the pot. “My daughter and daughter-in-law are very helpful to me and they assist me in the chores and cooking daily so I am quite pleased to get help,”

she said. She stated that she has no complains where her children are concerned because they are obedient and very good. Lower Bonasika Creek

At Lower Bonasika Creek the Pepperpot Magazine met the Ramrattan family, who are farmers but as a result of heavy rainfall, the team was unable to venture further down the creek as was expected. The boat the team was in had to be bailed of water a few times and we sought shelter for some time before making our way out the creek. However, the team reached the home of a resident, who is head of the household, he is Vivian Ramrattan, 67, a farmer, who is ailing and depends on his wife and children to support him. He told the Pepperpot Magazine that he used to a security guard attached to the Primary School in the community but after he fell ill he had to stop work. The father of four said one of his sons reside with him and he would assist on the farm along with his grandson and wife. Collectively they are also caring for his elderly mother, who is also ill. She is Rajpattie Reece, 88. This family has a cultivation of plantains, bananas, ground provisions, pumpkins and limes at the back of their yard and would sell their produce at Hubu Koker or Parika.

Lower Bonasika Creek. Quarter Benabo Island

Ramrattan’s wife, Dularie, 63, is the backbone of the family, who does the work in the back dam and also assist in the kitchen. She is originally from Lanaballi, Essequibo River but after marriage 40 years ago she relocated to Lower Bonasika Creek. After her husband suffered a stroke she had to step up and assist with the farm and also help care for his ailing mother. This riverine community doesn’t have potable water supply, no electricity or internet services and it is remote. In Bonasika Creek people live on both banks of the creek which runs down to the savannah area where there is a koker, for many miles. The only mode of transportation is by boat and they use a generator or solar to power appliances and get light at nights. Bonasika Creek has a nursery, a primary school and a health centre nearby the school compound with an upgraded landing. The community has a police outpost at Upper Bonasika Creek. The people are very welcoming and would not hesitate to offer you a drink of beverage or a place to sit and chat.

XII

Social Anxiety

I HAVE an avid reader who has been updating me about his anxiety. While many have been suffering from the loneliness of isolating, he was doing much better because his mental health issues revolved around social anxiety. He is saying to me now, that the perceived threat of COVID has passed and the restrictions are constantly being violated and he feels forced – both at work and at home- to be social again. This of course means that his social anxiety is prevalent once more. Everyone feels shy at times; occasionally we are nervous to meet new people, speak in public or simply, to walk through big crowds. However, it doesn’t typically affect our day to day life. Social anxiety -- also called social phobia -- is a consistent discomfort or fear in interacting with others or just being in

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

crowded spaces. Some believe it is just a fear of public speaking but those with social anxiety have issues doing everyday activities. Even one-on-one conversations can be taxing, as these individuals often feel stressed and worry about saying or doing the wrong thing. They often miss out on exciting opportunities due to their intense fear of being judged, laughed at, embarrassed or criticised. They feel intense discomfort doing things that others consider normal such as eating in public or taking public transportation. If they are in situations that create or increase discomfort, physical symptoms such as sweating, headaches, stomach issues or rapid heart rate may even be experienced. If the fear becomes too intense, panic attacks can also occur. Symptoms of social anxiety typically begin in teenage

years and levels of anxiety can either improve or decline with age. While it is rare, it is possible to detect social anxiety in young children with symptoms such as avoiding interaction with other children, avoiding activities at school, not asking for help when needed or frequent and unusual crying. If you feel as though you may be suffering from social anxiety, it is important to seek the right treatment as the disorder can have severe negative effects on self-esteem, self-confidence and overall self-worth. It interrupts normal social learning, relationships as well as school or employment life. There are many possible treatment options (for various levels of anxiety) but if you are experiencing social anxiety to the point where it is negatively affecting your daily life, I would advise you to go to your nearest health centre and share your concerns. You may see a general practitioner who can refer you to a mental health professional or if you are already aware of one, you can go straight to them. These individuals will typically ask a series of questions or may ask you to fill out questionnaires to get an idea of the extent of the anxiety. From there, they can decide what type of counselling method is right for you as well as whether you need to be referred further for any medications that will help decrease some of the symptoms of anxiety. A combination of both counselling and medication is typically the best way to treat moderate to severe anxiety. There are also things you can do on your own. However, self-help alone is typically for those who have only mild anxiety. By now I hope you all know that education and awareness is the most important thing to not only understand your disorder but to accept it. Research anxiety and know everything there is to know about what you’re feeling, including signs, symptoms and triggers. You can also start to practise something that researchers call ‘graded self-exposure.’ It entails making a list of all the situations that create or increase your anxiety and expose yourself to them little by little. For example, if you have a fear of eating in public, you start with something small, for a short period of time and then further progress. The theory here is that you can train yourself to become tolerant of all exposures. If you have access to the Internet, you can go online and do activities that are dedicated to reducing anxiety. These usually consist of workbook activities that teach you how to challenge negative thinking and irrational patterns of thoughts that may result in anxiety. (Tip, you can google or YouTube how to do those things). Try mindfulness mediation! While I understand that many people don’t believe this works, it is very effective in reducing common symptoms of social anxiety. Mindfulness is a meditation technique designed to acknowledge and accept where you are in your life. It is an attempt to control your breathing and quiet your thoughts, only allowing yourself to focus on the present. People with social anxiety tend to overthink and mindfulness teaches how to get back to the present as well as settle the jumbled thoughts in your head. The controlling of thoughts will help with the anxiety that comes with interaction. During a conversation, those with social anxiety are preoccupied with their own irrational thoughts rather than what the person is actually saying. For example, you may be focused on what you previously said, how the person may have taken it if you have something in your teeth and a million other things. Practising mindfulness will result in a more focused present. I realize it is difficult to seek help for social anxiety with social anxiety! It requires a lot of strength and tolerance. However, I need to reiterate how crucial treatment is as untreated anxiety can lead to other mental health issues such as depression, substance abuse and agoraphobia which occurs when the fear becomes so intense that even leaving the house becomes an issue. Please let me know if there are any other disorders you would like to talk about. Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. If you would like private counselling sessions, please contact me at +592 623 0433 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always! Suicide Prevention Helpline – 223-0001, 223-0009, 6234444 or 600-7896 Do not be afraid to reach out!

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

HUSH, MY BEAUTIFUL ONE SHE sat there for a long moment, her mind searching for answers, remembering vividly the cemetery, the cold feeling of death and the little girl. “What did she say?” Priya questioned herself quietly, “That her uncle hurt her real bad?” A bird landed on the window sill, fluttering its wings and as Priya looked at the beautiful avian specie, realization dawned on her, that not only was her life in imminent danger but the child also. She had to save herself and the child. She took a long, warm bath to calm her mind, for she had to act normal to uncover the deceptive acts as the plan unfolded but most important in her mind, was finding the child. “I hope I’m not too late,” was an earnest prayer in her mind, “For, in the nightmare, she had died before me.” Priya dressed hurriedly and exiting the room she almost collided with her mother in law who was about to knock. She stepped back, a little startled, the colour ebbing from her cheeks. “I was just about to call on you,” the woman said, “so you won’t be late for work.” “Oh,” Priya exclaimed quietly, steeling her mind to stay calm. “Has Dev left already?” she asked casually. “A while ago.” She forced a smile and said as she walked to the kitchen, “He could have woken me.” “Apparently you were in deep sleep.” The mother in law said, looking closely at Priya, “You look pale, are you okay?” “Yep,” she answered in a casual tone, drinking a

glass of juice, poured from a sealed bottle, “I must have been tired.” “Is there anything I can do for you?” her in-law offered kindly, trying to show her concern. “Such evil deception,” Priya thought and smiling wryly, she said, “No, but thank you anyway.” She felt a tinge of satisfaction as she drove away, for answering so nonchalantly. She now had to sketch a foolproof plan to unmask her perpetrators. She could have just moved away from her matrimonial home, quietly, but she wasn’t going to let them get away with a planned murder so easily. “A woman needs to be strong and stand up for her rights against such heartless abuse,” was her thought, with a renewed sense of determination.

creole chickens. “Does a little girl named, Anne, live here?” The woman answered in broken English that the child lived there but she had gone to school and the mother was at work. “I guess I’ll have to come back in the afternoon,” Priya mused and as she drove away, slowly, she saw a young man riding up the street on a bicycle. Her eyes met with his as she passed him and she felt a sudden chill as though recognising something evil. From her rearview mirror, she saw him enter Anne’s home and she wondered if he was the one the child spoke of. “I have to come back this afternoon, can’t delay another day,” she said to herself and drove to her parents home.

She did not go to work but called on a friend, who was an official at the child care agency. She did not tell her about the nightmare but told her, she had a strong suspicion, the child’s life was in danger. The friend, unfortunately, had an important meeting to attend but promised to meet with Priya for lunch to deal with the matter. Every minute that ticked by could be a minute too late so Priya drove alone to the little village near to the cemetery. It was a depressed area and as she drove through the pot-holed streets, it touched her heart to see the impoverished living conditions of the residents. There were several, small, unpainted houses, but only one had a birdbath in the yard, that was actually a big old bowl on a stand. No one seemed to be at home so she spoke to a neighbour, an old lady who was tending to her

Her mother noticed her pale look and the distress in her eyes and she asked with genuine concern. “What’s wrong, Priya?” Priya sighed deeply, not answering for a short moment, then she said quietly, a slight tremor in her voice. “I died last night and you were crying for me.” Her mother’s hand froze on the food she was preparing and her father put down his newspaper, both of them looking at her, somewhat shocked by such a statement. “What are you saying, my child?” her mother asked, a disturbed look on her face. “I heard your voice telling me it’s time to sleep, to rest in peace but I couldn’t find you, it was so dark. Then I saw a light and my eyes opened but I was in a cemetery, alone, in the world of the departed.” A hushed silence fell in the room and the mother and

It was now time for the shocking revelation!

father exchanged worried looks then the father said to his daughter, to calm her mind and the mother’s rising fears at the same time, “It was just a nightmare.” “Yes father,” Priya accepted, “But what I couldn’t understand was how I could go to sleep in perfect health

PART THREE

and never wake up.” “Dreams can be complex,” He explained, “and sometimes they mean nothing.” “That dream,” she told him with firm conviction, “was a warning to me, for

what is to come.” “What is that?” her mother questioned. “That I will die, murdered by my husband and his mother.” To be continued…

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

New authors creating waves

I BELIEVE this is my season to write more and encourage others to also do so. The question people often ask is, “Are you still a designer”? Fashion will also be part of my life but it’s at the moment sharing the stage with other passions. I have been working with a few first-time authors locally and internationally and some have already published their books and many are in the process of doing so. Today, I will focus the spotlight on two brilliant young people who are showing up and doing great to contribute to society. Their book will be on Amazon in a few days and I encourage you to support them. Every life has a story and Alicia Daniels from Guyana and Phil Umoru- Iko-Oko are on extraordinary journeys. I met Alicia Daniels, who is a teacher, when she registered for the Women in Business Expo. I did not take me long to discover how talented she is, but it was not only her talent that caught my attention. Her teachable spirit and discipline captivated me. After reading her poems, I encouraged her to publish her book on Amazon and that will be a reality on January 27, God’s willing. Please allow me to share one of her inspiring poems with you. Prophetic Age The Prophetic is a stream that never dies, It’s a word from the heart of God, To change our lives. When it seems like we’re at our wits end, The Prophetic encourages us to try again. As the widow of Zarephath who almost gave up, When along came the Prophet, And gave her reason to look up. For her redemption was in her sacrificial gift, Which of course she did not resist. Though she did not understand, It couldn’t do her any worse to obey his command. The Prophet saw life tomorrow, She saw only death today, And where there seemed to be no way, The Prophetic word brought her to a clearer day. Les Brown is one of my mentors who impacted my life and many around the world. One such person is Phil-Umoru Iko-Ojo. We connected through the Les Brown group and instantly connected and was excited to share about the book he was writing. He decided to enrol in the virtual Writers Retreat to get some insights into crafting a compelling story and info on publishing. Fortunately, he received what he was looking for to complete his book and it will be available on Amazon on January 29. THE SCRIPT: What

Champions Don’t do, provides a clear insight into the adaptability of the willpower of a determined young man. He had to be intentional to enrol in the gym of adversity to build his faith, hope and resilience muscles to be able to fight the good fight. These captivating narratives carry messages of determination, self-doubt, focus, consistency and hope to make the impossible possible. It shows you that it is possible to turn dreams into realities and the results of taking action. His story reminds me of our mentor, the great Les Brown story. He was certainly not expected to be one of the top motivational speakers in the world similar to how Phil was not expected to be an attorney. When many people label you as a dunce and against all odds you become everything society did not expect is a monumental achievement. He decided to persevere. He also decided to share his story to inspire others. Like the late great Myles Munroe said: “You must decide if you are going to rob the world or bless it with the rich, valuable, potent, untapped resources locked away within you.”? ? ?To live a fulfilling life, we need to discover why we were created and I believe he certainly discovered that. ?It is an honour to contribute a foreword to this book that will transform many lives because many will resonate with this story. I am proud of the man Phil-Umoru Iko-Ojo is becoming! Remember to join us on live stream every day (weekdays 19:00hrs-20:00hrs and weekends 16:00hrs to 17:00hrs) until January 31. On the Sonia Noel FB Page, People from around the globe will be sharing their journeys. Get your copy of the 365 Invaluable Life Experiences as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

XV XXI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021 CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 20, 2020

THE MYSTERY SYSTEM OF CHRISTMAS THE NEXUS OF HUMAN IGNORANCE WITH THE CALLOUS

A tale ofPOWER... the human QUEST OF the American ethos event

OF course, it’s a commercialGuyanese, period that my AS we from are comperspective, husbands pelled to understand the should keep the thinking, attention human worlds, culture and beliefs of their wives ataround home us, to which rather than ‘White walking downSupremacy’ now experitown. I think from back into the mainence that there are many stream conscious-in what spirits embodied ness on TV as andthe so-spirit of is defined cial media as part Christmas, like the muses of thehave downside of catethey different the American elecgories of inspiration one tions, is one such is ‘Shopping beyond the state of mind. Like boundaries of necessity’ all human culturand that inspiration taral and philosophgets trends women. and Most men ical have a list that includes the doctrines, a volstress-related bills, the last ume of timelines record I read, are linked to mentioned its that men die more from growth accompanied by stress-related than various stagesillnesses of metamorwomen;which that’s phosis webecause cannot we’re born with this but list explore in any article, of not-to-dos that define rather in several books, if ‘manhood’: don’t whine, the interest and attention span permit.beg, Michael complain, cry, Hill, and arealise History thatprofessor there arewho no equates Yankeesonly with‘Sugfas‘Sugar Mamas’ cists and black criminals ar Daddies’ don’t become with brown-shirted one, Hitler’s or the stress will destreet thugs, is the founder stroy you. of the ‘Southern League’ in This is a phenomenon the state of Alabama. One of Christmas not only in of the strange references Guyana, but from larger came from a book quoted in the article by Grady Mc Whiney’s (a member of the Southern League) titled Cracker Culture, “asserts that the principal settlers of the antebellum South emigrated from the English uplands and Celtic regions of Britain-Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Cornwall. These people were anti-English herdsmen, Mc Whiney writes, living woodsy lives and given to loquacity, music, wanton pleasures, indolence, and most tellingly no violence. The Civil War, he argues, was not so much about the plantation system and slavery, or even economics, as it was a clash between two cultures-the Anglo-Celtic South and the North, which had been settled by English lowlanders and others, such as Germans -- a different, far more regimented breed. This is the historical cloth that Hill uses as the piecing for his political dream

economies that I’ve lived in for a while, where the work.” –Article by enthuJohn siasm of the season compels Keeble-June 11, 1996 Vilan intoxication of shopping. lage Voice NY NY. Thehowever, irony ofhave the awhite They, consumer privilege to take back items, rebalancing the budget into reality, that provides a favourable sober-up reprieve. From the beginning of time, human governance has instilled in populations the longing for redemption; thus, more so the longing for divine intervention. Somehow this has accounted for the remarkable presence of shepherd Elders across cultures. I inherited a book published in 1913 on comparative religions byisRev. supremacist culture the Charles H. Vail titled Bible -- both new and‘The old World Saviors.’ tookthey me testaments -- Itthat some and yearsboast to explore its vow that they narratives in-depth conadhere to.andThe Bible to tent on similarity of meet thethe appeasement slavery to transcend the unusual and revolutionary souls edict of verse 16:across chapter that have emerged all 21 of Exodus-“And he that human variations, Prophets, stealeth a man and etc. selleth Messiahs, Avatars It him, or isto he in his occurred mefound that cynical hand shallthat surely put to as I am, it is be doubtful death.” Sowas the abiblical that there global narexrative through changewent of this idea, rigged since interpretations and concept people hardly travelled over adjustments, relegating all discourse from a didactic position of priest to audience. Centuries ago, Rabbis interpreted and embellished text and the Trans-Atlantic enslaving world adopted the propaganda that suited them to this day, to create the Noah Curse, despite the recognition of its mythology, plus the realisations of ancient Stock Propaganda, that emerged from the religious civil war in Khemet that birthed the Hebrew nation. How could the White Christian Supremacist not recognise that the entire biblical narrative happened on the African continent, and in so doing question the legitimacy of their hatreds and entitlement contentions? For those interested in this research, see African American Life and the story of Nimrod edited by Anthony B. Pinn & Allen Dwight Callahan- and Noah’s Curse by Stephen R. Haynes. I remember a cartoon in

100 miles to go anywhere, except by sea routes, herea a magazine years ago with and there, for on example, the wanted poster a wall with entire Biblical geography an Afro-American image captured in on it, and white is located thetwo African continent. The remarkable thing is that in this very book and others after, there was a common denominator, of common birth timing, based on a specific astronomical uniformity for all these saviours. However, the essence of the birth of Jesus who would become the ‘Christ’ is rooted in our human culture of the sacred, that echoes the relevance of religion and the constant quest of change when the illumination dims, and the business Americans dressed in rural of man-contrived gods usurp farm clothing. Looking at the the higher exposter one responsibility turned to the other pounded at itthe pointing to andbirth saidofin the the manifestation. caption, “See they’re getting Christmas enveall the importantalso jobs.” The cartoon lopes thehighlighted old harvestignofesrance,custom irrationalthrough stereotypical tival the bigotry and anger and envy cleansing and preparing of at ahome, perception ofowned progress the whether or by theacknowledging other, to whom rented, that aa custom of ridicule behouse is not a home, ahas home come entrenched.within In the the is an environment mentioned article by ‘John walls, of souls with shared Keeble’, culture is importempathy and compassion. ant and a source of critical examination as the writer found out in his discussion with Michael Hill who contended, “They make fun of my religion, they make fun of my culture.” The ridicule he condemns, and with justification, is the drumbeat of demeaning caricatures of white Southerners in the media and film of the last 30 years:” [article pub. in 1996] what America has going for it however is the capacity to address the options for change where ever it is required, through laws and an aggressive edutainment industry, knowing that as the writer said people are quick to retreat to familiar fears and point at likewise familiar scapegoats, historical and religiously defined scapegoats. Guyana can learn from the informed macrocosm still unfolding in the US of A, and the insights provided by the article mentioned, that not all contentions are rooted on the current stage,

In another age, we cleansed and treated tribaland farmlands previous cultural social and waterways, shared food experiences that led to states andpsychosis gifts for those proof do notless depart on fresh ground but can be ductive, with Christmas we are still cued to the profound symbolism that has sustained us through the ages. The Christ season sum-

mons the otherwise deeper contained and aspects of our transferred contextualnature: gifts to ised intowe thethink new of platform. persons who League have affected The Southern is just us positively, to our famione of the WSGs involved. There are spouse the extreme lies-- meaning and Aryan nations, the offspring -- and others; KKK etc. Nicholas despite social media, we has are stillGoodrick-Clarke inspired by beauwritten two books on the subject, “The Occult Roots of Nazism” and “Black Sun” that are current references; also relevant is an older title ‘Trevor Ravenscroft ‘The Spear of Destiny’. The essence of

tiful and relevant funny cards. We must also think race-hate conflicts will of those employdawn uponout anyofsocial rement, formedia, those academic relatives searcher, or That andinterested friends, citizen. we apply an religion andcustom; culturalwe falsiold family do fications are at the foundathat sub-ration ‘thing.’ And tions of these conflicts, with Page XXII leader theSeecommunists, idolatry replaces God, so it’s back to square one. The conclusion will be arrived at, that the same mediums used to facilitate the cult hate-movement, once aware of their modules, similar corrective mechanisms can be applied to counter their hold on the active and subconscious imagination.

XVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION PART 2

LAST week, we took a brief look at Environmental Authorisations (EA) granted by the EPA in Guyana. It was noted that EAs are necessary for the protection of human health and the environment, as they identify potential pollution sources and mitigation measures before development activities occur. Additionally, having an EA is also beneficial to the developer as it is a legal requirement, and saves time and money in the long term as conflicts with other stakeholders are addressed before significant financial investments are made. After the receipt of an application, it is ‘screened’ to determine whether or not an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required or not.

EIA not required Once it is determined that an EIA is not required, the

EPA will publish a notice to the public, in at least one daily newspaper informing them of the EPA’s position, thereby allowing public input into the decision-making process. Appeals against the agency’s decision may be made to the Environmental Assessment Board (EAB) within 30 days of the publication of the notice. Once there are no objections, an Environmental Permit is issued with conditions for environmental management, against which developers are to report when submitting an annual return to the EPA. Additionally, for some projects, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) may be required, detailing measures to mitigate known/potential environmental impacts.

EIA required If an EIA is required, the developer will be requested to select qualified persons to undertake the study. Once

the team of consultants has been approved, and a draft Terms of Reference (ToR) prepared, the agency will publish in at least one daily newspaper, a notice of the project, inviting public submissions on issues or areas of concern that should be addressed in the EIA. The ToR for the EIA scope of work will determine the nature and extent to which the consultants will examine issues of importance which emerge during the scoping exercises. The consultants will conduct scoping of the project during the active public consultations, facilitated by the EPA. The scoping exercises will identify what possible impacts there may be from the project, and from alternatives considered. It is during the scoping process that important environmental components likely to be affected (air quality, water quality, biodiversity etc.) are identified, along with potential issues of conflict between stakeholders. The EIA has three (3) components: an environmental baseline study; an environmental assessment and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Once the EIA study has been completed and the report prepared, the developer will submit as a minimum eight (8) hard copies and one (1) electronic copy of the EIA which must include the EIS. The EPA will publish a notice in at least one daily newspaper notifying the public of the submission of the EIA. The public will have sixty (60) days from the publication date of the notice to submit to the EPA and/or EAB. The EPA, along with the sector agency, will review the EIA. Whilst reviewing the EIA, the sectoral agencies will also ensure that the EIA is consistent with any plans, guidelines, regulations or codes of practice developed by them. Copies of the EIA and the findings of the review by the EPA and sectoral agency will be passed to the EAB for review and recommendation. The Environmental Assessment Board (EAB) will recommend to the EPA whether the EIA is acceptable and the conditions to be attached to the Environmental Permit, should it be granted. Should there be a need for additional information before a decision is made, the developer will be requested to submit such information. A new draft of the EIA or an addendum if the comments are not significant should then be prepared by the consultant and must address the comments of the EPA, the sectoral agency, the public and the EAB. It is essential that the consultants clearly indicate how each comment has to be addressed. The EPA will take into account the EAB’s recommendations, the sectoral agency’s recommendations, the public’s comments and the EPA’s own review, and decide whether or not the project should be approved. For the approval project, the EPA will issue an Environmental Permit with the terms and conditions necessary to effectively manage the environment and, in accordance with the prescribed fee. Should an Environmental Permit not be granted, the developer may file an appeal within fourteen (14) days with the Environmental Appeals Tribunal (EAT). Ensure that you submit your applications for Environmental Authorisation, and remember, the environment is everybody’s business! You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications Department, 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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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

How allies can also be Trojan CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 27, 2020 Horses to Social Movements

The term “Trojan Horse” originated in Ancient Greece and was derived from the story of the fall of the city of Troy because of the deceptive Trojan Horse. The term has since been used as a concept of hidden deceptions throughout history, and here I am linking it to activism and social issues. Allies can play an important part in movements, causes and activism. Allies would usually use their privileges and connections to help the disadvantaged and underprivileged. This is great. Allies can be our friends but that does not that mean that with every friendly face comes a good intention. This concept of deceptive allies actually came from personal experiences. As many of you know, I ad-

vocate long and hard for many social issues. I am also an ally for many causes and movements, myself. I consider myself a feminist. I believe equal rights and opportunities for men and women. I also think men who share similar views as feminists can be allies to feminist movements—even though this thought and belief of mine have backfired on many occasions. There are many “social media activists” these days. Many people use their platforms to speak up and against social issues. There are many men on my social media pages who stand with women. Similarly, the same can be said for #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo and many other movements and causes. That’s good. In fact, it’s great. But, do you know

what isn’t great?—The art of deception and manipulation. You’d be surprised how many of these so-called “allies” put on an act. I can tell you this because I’ve seen it and experienced it. There are men who stand with women but behind closed doors, they use their privileges to abuse and use women. There are non-black “allies” who are racist to the core. There are people who want to be at the centre of movements to disrupt it from the inside, out. There are also “allies” who want to hop onto social movements because they want to overpower and overshadow the true cause of the movement with their own agendas. If you’re reading this and you’re feeling offended by the sentiments I share then you must be a Trojan

Horse. Your deception disgusts me. If you’re reading this and you’re an existing ally who believes in the true meanings of social movements and causes then I applaud you for your efforts. Educate yourself each and every day on how to be an ally for the disadvantaged. Understand your privileges and you can use that against systems of oppression to fight for a change. Last, you must understand that your voice

is to help uplift and help those in need. Do not, I repeat—do not overshadow or overpower their voices. Your involvement matters

but it only matters if you’re true to the cause and most importantly, yourself and those whom you intend to help.

There was The Renaissance after the ‘Black Death’, what will come after the COVID-19 pandemic?

The Renaissance was the impassioned rebirth of european societies after the Middle Ages. It is considered to be one the most, if not the most exciting periods of european history. Many philosophers, authors, scientist and thinkers who we hold with high regards today thrived during this era. The Renaissance opened up a new way of thinking, new cultural identities alongside feelings of boldness and curiosity. This, of course, was influenced heavily due to the 14th-century pandemic. This pandemic originated from Asia and made its way to europe through merchant ships. The disease was first carried by fleas on black rats but was then transmitted to human fleas which in return caused a pneumonic plague (which was airborne). The “Black Death” as it’s known reduced the world’s population from 450 million to 350 million. I shared that little insight on the Black Death because I wanted you to understand the negative impact and dark era the world was in during that time. In a time when technological advances were practically nonexistent and the society was theological-metaphysical in “rationality”—there was still The Renaissance. There light after the darkness. That era metamorphosed like Phoenix and was the beginning of the end for the Middle Ages and the birth of modern-day civilization. Can we overcome the ongoing pandemic the same way the Europeans did in the 14th century? Will there be a Renaissance after the COVID-19 pandemic? I can’t say for sure because I am merely a writer, not a fortune-teller. What I do know for sure is that if we take heed to the history of plagues, diseases, pandemics and even war; we can see the parallels for ourselves of what not to and what to do. Dante, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo and William Shakespeare are all famous and noteworthy Europeans from this era. Their work is still alive and relevant in the 21st century. Some scholars believe that without The Renaissance, the world and the very root of how our society functions would have been completely different. We would have probably been a theocracy, with many of our “rationality” equating to religious thoughts and work instead of science. I’d like to think that after the COVID-19 pandemic,

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

THE NEED TO MAKE COST OF FUNERALS AFFORDABLE

COMPLAINTS about the high cost of living are universal and this topic, either directly or indirectly, occupies much of the discourse in media coverage. One rarely hears, if ever at all, complaints about the high cost of dying. The funerary arrangements for burials cost the bereaved families scores of thousands of dollars which they cannot afford and which leave them impoverished. Families exhaust their savings and often take oppressive loans, since money is needed urgently as undertakers never give credit and demand all payments must be made upfront. In a usual burial, the family has to contract with a funeral home who will undertake to bathe and dress the body, but usually such is done by members of the family on the premises of the funeral home, but yet they are charged for this service. Then there is the purchase of a coffin and many bereaved relatives, unbalanced with

grief, feel that by choosing the most expensive coffin or casket, they would be pleasing the departed or paying due reverence and honour to him or her. Many families feel that buying expensive caskets would win them prestige. Then comes the church which has its own type of expenses such as paying for the organist, printing of programmes, paying the priests and other helpers. Finally, there is transport, purchase of land and cost of building the tomb and payment of gravediggers and other such ancillary expenses. And the priest would always be there to give the final committal. Families and even friends are exploited by all of those involved. Hindu burials in their original form, were quite simple and affordable since there was the understanding that the body has no value and had been shed by the owner who moves on to another body. The body would be bathed, dressed in about

six yards of white cotton and placed on a doli. A doli is a kind of stretcher made of bamboo and covered in white cloth, If the burial ground is within walking distance, the doli is borne there by friends and relatives. The doli is usually covered with net material. The pandit performs the last rites when the body is being interred. Nowadays, funeral homes are engaged for the provision of transportation, coffins, gravediggers and tombs. Despite using many of the trappings of Western burials, Hindu burials are still less expensive. Probably the most efficient and least expensive form of burial is the Muslim. Muslims try to inter the body the same day as death or at least the next day. The body is washed dressed in two pieces of white cotton since, at Resurrection, all

Muslims would be dressed alike. The coffin is a box usually made by a carpenter at the home. Many Muslim families have adopted the custom of engaging a funeral home to transport the body

and arrange for gravediggers and tomb, but most Muslims feel it an honour to help in the whole burial process. And the committal is quite simple and efficient. Indeed, some Muslim organisations have minibuses converted into hearses and these are supplied to the bereaved families or these organisations themselves take over the whole responsibility for the funeral. An alternative way of disposal is by cremation. There

are two types of cremation used in Guyana: an electrical process which is quick and clean and allows for the ash to be later entombed and the pyre process which is very ancient and is found in all civilisations. The electrical process is offered by the authorities of Le Repentir Cemetery while the pyre system is found at various cremation grounds throughout the coast. Cremation was illegal in Guyana until 1956, though it was clandestinely practised on the foreshore. Cremation was a custom brought to Guyana by the Indian indentured immigrants in the 19th century and as such, the cremation grounds are maintained by Hindu groups who happily cremate persons of any faith. Since the law requires that bodies for burial or cremation should be put in coffins, cof-

fins were wastefully burnt at pyre cremations. Cremation as a form of disposal has been rapidly growing in popularity and wooden dolis rather than bamboo dolis are used, saving the cost of a coffin. Ms Eileen Cox, the founder of consumerism in Guyana and the doyen of consumer advocates in the Caribbean and the only President Emeritus of the Guyana Consumers Association (GCA), was cremated by Hindu rites at the Ruimzight cremation ground. She was one of the early Guyanese disciples of Swami Paramhamsa Yogananda. Pyre cremations, using dolis, could be as inexpensive as Muslim funerals. The cost of funerals could be made far more affordable to bereaved families if the public were to be educated as to how to arrange affordable but dignified funerals. This would involve the religious bodies and interested NGOs meeting, planning and executing such education campaigns.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

Facial Pain

DESPITE rapid advances in the scientific diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, the evaluation and measurement of pain remain perplexing problems. Patients often have great difficulty in fully describing the pain they have, and healers are stymied by their inability to assess it. Yet, the analysis of the quality and quantity of the pain experienced are central not only to diagnosis, but also to treatment. The condition which is usually referred to as neuralgia is diagnosed primarily by its characteristic pain. The typical patient is a female above the age of 35. Frequently the pain involves the right side of the face and is usually elicited by a “trigger zone.” Rarely both the sides of the face are involved at the same time. The “trigger zone” precipitates an attack when touched and is commonly found on the pigmented part of the lips, sides of the nose, cheeks or around the eyes. In some cases, there is no need to touch the skin to start the pain. Being exposed to a strong breeze, eating or even smiling may be sufficient. Neuralgia pain is relatively moderate in the initial stages. But as the disease progresses over the months or years, the attacks become more intense and frequent. The pain is usually sharp and severe, lasting a few seconds to various minutes. It may be so intense that the patient always lives in fear of an attack. It disappears just as suddenly as it appears and may be felt in any area of the face depending on which branch of the trigeminal (facial) nerve is affected. Many diseases can imitate neuralgia which means that the dentist must exclude them in his differential diagnosis. One of the most common is Horton’s syndrome which is characterised by a severe ache on one side of the head lasting for hours. On some occasions, sinusitis is confused with neuralgia. Other diseases include Costen syndrome, cancer of the oropharyngeal region and herpes zoster. No single factor has been identified as being the cause of neuralgia. One must appreciate that the oral and masticatory region is supplied with at least seven major nerve trunks, three of which originate from the spinal cord in the neck. Because of the central excitation, the location of many pain complaints does not identify its true source. The patient may be entirely mistaken as to where his suffering originates. In any event, it seems as if arteriosclerotic changes in the blood vessels supplying certain branches of the facial nerve may be a principal cause of neuralgia. Ruling out the dental pain should always be the first step when dealing with what may be believed to be neuralgia. The disease is confirmed when the characteristic pain pattern is established. The final step is the actual treatment. Many methods are currently in use to treat neuralgia, though some are more popular than others. There are three small areas in the face where the dentist can make an incision to bisect the offending nerve. If not, he could inject alcohol at any of these points and the patient would be relieved of their misery for up to six months. Alternatively, the patient may inhale trichloroethylene which selectively numbs the facial nerve. Two methods of treatment however remain the most predominantly used. One is the act of cutting the sensitive root of the trigeminal nerve which would then result in a permanent cure. The other way to treat the disease is with medication. One carbamazepine (Tegretol) tablet of 200 mgs strength taken daily for one week is of immense help. It should be emphasised that a careful analysis must be done before arriving at a diagnosis, since, any hasty or dogmatic treatment administered without proper investigation may end up with serious consequences for the patient.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

The coconut cockle

THE coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L.) is an important crop, globally. There is growing demand for it with limited supply. As such, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is encouraging farmers to increase production to tap into this financially beneficial market. Like many crops, coconut palms also come under attack

by pest and diseases. NAREI has been working with our farmers to take an integrated approach towards pest and disease management which involves proper farm sanitation to using chemicals in a controlled manner. One pest that is affecting coconut palms internationally as well as locally is the Strategus aloeus (coconut cockle). Strategus aloeus, coconut cockle, is a species of a rhinoceros beetle. It takes between 11 and 17 months to complete one life cycle. The adults attack palms up to four years old by tunnelling into the soil near the palm and then boring their way into the plant, just above the roots. Often, the growing point is reached, and palm death occurs. Coconut cockle infestation peaks at the beginning of the rainy seasons. This pest also serves as a vector of several coconut diseases like red ring disease. The “major” males of this species have three large horns on their thoraces, resembling the Triceratops. The “minor” males have horns, as well, but the two back ones are small and the frontal horn is much shorter than the horn in major males. The female cockle has a very short horn which has little use in fighting, but is used for digging in the ground. The larvae of this species feed on roots in the ground, while the adults feed on flowers and all sorts of fruit. The larvae take around four to six months to reach the pupal stage. The pupal stage can be shortened in captivity by placing the pupae in a warm area. Farmers could use inisan to combat this pest.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

THOUGHT

FOR TODAY 1) A wise and p is not thrown in rudent person reproach but isto confusion by which, when stirlike the flame, red, ascends higher d hig her. 2) A problem an is solved when it gets to Inspirational INugher. D N PROVERBS and QUIA OTES

January 24, 2021 Dear Student, Welcome, dear friend. If your studies are top priority, your daily game plan for each session must allow much information and

skills gathering, just like your classroom times. Also, utilise your learning style. If it is reading/writing, take notes even if you had a power-point presentation. Rewriting content, makes your brain think about the topic, and gives you the opportunity to reorganise it. Flash cards encourage re-reading which aids memory. Pretend-teaching also helps the reading/writing learner to maximise his study. Love you. THE PASSAGE Heeding specific instructions in questions Students sometimes jump into question-answering without first considering the key word or phrase which informs upon the correct response to the question. Let us look at three key instructions that students can miss sight of in multiple-choice questions. 1. For a question that states “according to the passage,” make sure that you refer to the passage for the answer. 2. Pay close attention to the italicized word or phrase. 3. Pay close attention to terms like describe, summarise, etc. First Passage Read the passage. Then decide upon the best answer to each question. Day had broken cold and gray, when the man turned aside from the main Yukon trail and climbed the high earth-bank, where a dim and little-travelled trail led eastward through the fat spruce timberland. It was a steep bank, and he paused for breath at the top, excusing the act to himself by looking at his watch. It was nine o’clock. There was no sun nor hint of sun, though there was not a cloud in the sky. It was a clear day, and yet there seemed an intangible pall over the face of things, a subtle gloom that made the day dark, and that was due to the absence of sun. (“To Build a Fire” by Jack London) 1. According to the passage, the man pauses at the top of a bank – A. to determine why the

day is dark and gloomy. B. to check the time. C. to catch his breath. D. to determine his next step in the journey. (The correct answer is C.) 2. Which word best describes the Yukon that morning? A. cold B. hilly C. woody D. sunless (The correct answer is D.) 3. Which title best summarises the passage? A. A View from the Top of a Hill B. Climbing a High Earth Bank in the Yukon C. A Gloomy Day in the Yukon D. The Absence of Yukon Sun (The correct answer is C.) Second Passage Read this longer passage. Then select the answer to each question which is most accurate according to the information given in the passage. Diamonds Some of the earliest diamonds known came from India. In the eighteenth century they were found in Brazil, and in 1866, huge deposits were found in Kimberley in South Africa. Though evidence of extensive diamond deposits has recently been found in Siberia, the continent of Africa still produces nearly all the world’s supply of these stones. The most valuable diamonds are large, individual crystals of pure crystal-line carbon. Less perfect forms, known as ‘boart’ and ‘carbonado’ are clusters of tiny crystals. Until diamonds are cut and polished, they do not sparkle like those you see on a ring – they just look like small, blue-grey stones. The jewel value of brilliant diamonds depends greatly on their colour, or ‘water’ as it is called. The usual colours of diamonds are white, yellow, brown, green, or blue-white; the blue-white brilliants are the stones of the ‘finest water’ and so command the highest prices. During their formation, some diamonds absorb metallic oxides from the surrounding rocks and take on their colour. Thus black,

red and even bright pink diamonds have occasionally been found. 1. Since 1866 – A. most of the world’s diamonds have come from Siberia. B. all the world’s diamonds have come from near Kimberley in South Africa. C. diamonds have been discovered in most parts of the world. D. Africa has produced nearly all the world’s diamonds. 2. ‘Carbonado’ is the name given to – A. only the absolute best diamonds. B. diamonds from a Spanish speaking country. C. lumps of pure carbon. D. diamonds made up of clusters of very small crystals. 3. After a diamond has been cut and polished, it – A. looks like a small blue pebble. B. can no longer be used to put in a ring. C. looks quite different from its original form. D. changes its chemical composition. 4. The value order of ‘water’ in diamonds – A. ranges from bluewhite downwards. B. ranges from bluewhite upwards. C. has never been reliably established. GRAMMAR Vocabulary and Spelling A. These words are often confused: intense, intents; insoluble, insolvable, insolvent. Find out about them. Then explain the differences to a group of study partners. B. Use each of the following nouns in the sentence that it best completes: discretion, involvement, motive, bias, empathy, retention. 1. The firm was criticized for its active ----- in a political campaign. 2. My supervisor has a ---- for people who work hard. 3. The ----- of workers allows a company to avoid expensive training programmes. 4. I had great ----- for the heroine suffering from COVID-19 in that film. 5. The judge questioned the suspect’s ----- mode of operating his black pudding business.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021

Preparing for possible COVID strains THE COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, while global authorities are still trying to mitigate its impact and over the past few weeks, there have been increasing reports on the appearance of mutated forms of the virus called strains or variants. Scientists have reportedly said that it is not surprising that new variants have developed, since all viruses mutate as they make new copies of themselves to spread and thrive. In the United Kingdom (UK), a strain of the virus known as the B117 strain was discovered after a type of genetic analysis known as genomic sequencing was done. Essentially, positive COVID-19 samples were analysed to see whether they had shown changes. This ‘UK variant’ is said to be more transmissible, (meaning more persons can become infected) but not necessarily resulting in more severe or adverse effects. Another variant has been discovered in South Africa and a third was more recently discovered in Brazil, Guyana’s southern and south-western neighbour. Preliminary reports indicate that these are also more transmissible, but more investigations would reveal whether they would result in more severe health implications. Further investigations are also ongoing to ascertain whether the vaccines already approved or those still being developed would still be effective in immunising against the new strains. Based on existing information, the strains appear to be more transmissible, and because they are more transmissible, it means that more persons can become infected with the virus. And, when more persons become infected, there is an increased likelihood that those persons who are susceptible to the adverse and possibly fatal efforts (such as the elderly folk with comorbidities) may become infected. This places them in harm’s way. Beyond these vulnerable groups of people, a surge in the number of COVID-positive cases places an additional strain on the health sector to take care of these infected persons. Productivity is also lost when more persons are infected, since, at least until they get better, they should be isolated away from their places of employment. In Guyana, the Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony has emphasised on numerous occasions that Guyana cannot conclusively identify newer strains because the country is unable to perform a type of genetic analysis known as genomic sequencing. Though the country is without the capacity to engage in this type of sequencing, the possibility that the strain(s) may be in Guyana is not unimaginable. Already, due to reckless and irresponsible behaviours during the holiday season, the local health authorities have been expecting a surge in the number of local cases. All of the parties and gatherings would have provided the right condition for the virus to spread from person to person. Now, the strains are a cause for concern because they may contribute to a surge in the number of cases. But, according to Virologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Jamaica, Dr. Joshua Anzinger, we can protect against it by continuing to follow the guidelines that have been in place. That includes wearing our masks (over our noses!), sanitising, and social distancing. He also advised that testing the local population for the virus should be increased. As of January 19, some 44,665 tests were conducted in Guyana. This represents approximately only six percent of the population. There have also been 6,950 positive cases so far. It has been more than one year since the coronavirus started its disruption around the world and it is approaching one year since the pandemic has engulfed Guyana. As our country tries to return to some semblance of normalcy, a surge in the number of cases -- which would happen if we continue

to breach the guidelines and if we import the strains -- would only prove to be detrimental. It is therefore very important that we adhere to these guidelines and try to keep ourselves and the people around us safe. I’ve said before, I don’t believe that safeguarding ourselves from COVID-19 is a burden of government or higher authorities. These authorities have the responsibility to facilitate and provide services, help sustain livelihoods, and generally, create an environment that is conscious of the effects of COVID-19. We, however, must be the ones who choose to

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wear masks and wash our hands; we must be the ones who avoid large and non-essential gatherings. We have to pull up our loved ones when they are endangering themselves and others around them by not taking the necessary precautions. Each person has that responsibility. If you would like to discuss this column or any of my previous writings, please feel free to contact me via email: vish14ragobeer@gmail.com

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 24, 2021