Pepperpot 05 06 2018

See inside:

‘Dance like no one’s watching’ ► Page II

A proud product of Albouystown ► Page IX

Reflections Celebrating 180 years of the arrival of East Indians in Guyana

Dance teacher for the Swarswattie Dance Academy, Sursattie Singh, poses in front of the Cotton Field Mandir. Singh was instrumental in organising an Arrival Day show for the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha which was held on Saturday evening to coincide with the Arrival of Indians to Guyana.

She has been dancing for almost 20 years and has founded her own dance group. (Avishkar Photography)

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

Members of the Swarswattie Dance Academy practising one of the ancient traditional dance moves that were brought by the East Indians to Guyana (Avishkar Photography)

‘Dance like no one’s watching’

Keeping traditional Indian dance traditions alive

By Indrawattie Natram ‘DANCE like no one is watching’ is the favourite quote of Essequibo Dance Teacher, Sursattie Singh aka ‘Annie’ of Reliance Village on the Essequibo Coast. Singh, who has formed her own dance group and has been teaching traditional and folk dances on the Essequibo Coast, said that she has the intention of one day opening her own dance school.

During an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine, Singh said everyone has the ability to dance but it takes a good teacher with patience to train her students. Dedicating her life to dance, Singh has been dancing for over 20 years.

Her dance group, the Dharmic Swarswattie Dance Academy has thus far managed to keep the Indian tradition alive with “folk dances”. According to Singh, “traditional folk dances” are a simple trace of the Indian ancestry that reawakens the Indian culture.

This 30-year-old dance teacher said that dancing is like therapy for her as it eases her mind off life’s many challenges and she has developed an immense passion for the art over the years.

“The opportunity to express oneself through the medium of dance holds the benefit of keeping the culture alive,” she said. “It’s a true blessing to be able to express the thoughts of your ancestors; to be on stage and just perform for an audience is simply amazing. Dancing makes you feel alive like you’re young again; I don’t know anything else that can have that effect on you.”

THE KEY TO THE ART Speaking about classical Indian dances, the dance teacher explained that it is all about the visual language hand gestures, body movements and postures. Movement of the eyes and hands, arms and legs, chest, waist, hip, knee and feet- either alone or in combination with each other- all make up this complicated language of classical dances.

Annie further went on, saying that Indian dance uses a set of emotions or feelings known as “rasas”. The job of the artist\teacher is to transform movement into emotions, such as amazement, anger, hatred, humour, or love and communicate them to the audience.

Shedding some light on her dancing path, she said her journey as a dancer began 10 years ago at the Reliance Mandir. She was inspired by a popular local dancer, Premie Naipaul, who motivated her to start dancing.

Singh, who eventually developed the passion after a few months of vigorous practice, said her parents weren’t too keen about her taking up dancing as a career but today she cannot express how happy she is for their support.

“Little did I know that one day, dance would be my life and the springboard of my other interests, from looking at Indian movies... At the age of 30, I cannot live

without dance, my journey thus far has been both rewarding and humble,” Sursattie said.

The dance teacher said even when she started to take the stage at a tender age she was frightful but never gave up but instead she dedicated her energies to being a better dancer. Today, she teaches over 30 youths including little children and she always seizes the opportunity to encourage them to dance with ease and to stay focus.

Recounting, she said she started to look at simple Indian dance films where she learned a few dance movements.

The lover of dance said she and her cousins used to dance.

Singh said that she later realised that she was becoming better at dancing, and as such, she decided to form her own troupe in 2003, “Annie Dance Troupe” now renamed the “Dharmic Swarswattie Dance Academy”.

Sursattie Singh aka ‘Annie’

TRAINING She said because there was a need for more movement in dancing she joined the Dancing School in Spring

Members of the dance group performing for a recent show, Naatak Ke Ek Sham

Garden where she acquired much dancing skills and techniques. Her motive behind the classes was to introduce new dancing moves mostly traditional dances to the group.

Today, Annie holds her own dance classes every Sunday at the Cotton Field Mandir where she teaches young girls and boys to dance. Annie said nothing gives her more pleasure than teaching the children dances that were inherited by their Indian fore parents.

Her group performs traditional Indian dances. She

said the dances are extremely simple with minimum steps or movement. The traditional dances are done by both females and males dancers.

She said it takes days to train the dancers and described the task as challenging but rewarding.

The dancers’ outfits are designed by Singh herself and are mostly brightly coloured, simple and opulent with many styles being ornately decorated. The garments are mostly made with cotton and sometimes silk and are richly decorated with gold beads and glitters.

CHALLENGES She said sometimes securing sponsorship for her group’s costumes is sometimes tiring, however, she thanked local business entities for always supporting her. This dancer also gave up her job and dedicated her time to teaching dance free of cost. The dance group only performs for cultural events and often represents the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

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Life on plantation De Kinderen Pandit recounts his childhood days, changes in Indian culture

By Navendra Seoraj

fore getting married.

IN 1948, a week before giving birth, a CULTURAL PRESSURES woman was lending a hand to men who In his family, because they were poor, were bundling and fetching sugar cane on Plantation De Kinderen.

Though some may say it might have been a choice to work under those conditions during a post-indentureship era (1838-1917), the child who the woman gave birth to, Ramdular Singh, recalled that it might have been a different case since it was not the first time the nine-month period went by with her on the field.

Singh, now 70 years old, said his mother who worked on the plantation for over 50 years gave birth to him and four girls but, during every pregnancy she was out in the h fields, working to maintain a 70-year-old Pandit Ramdular Sing to) pho s iam Will (Delano living.

From the wet, muddy fields his mother and father would his parents and four sisters worked in have to face more dirt on their way home the fields to send him to school. since all the roads were basically mud.

“As soon as my sisters turned teenHe recalled how the place would be agers, the pressure was on my parents flooded every time it rained but, his par- because everyone was looking to see when ents would still have to go to work and he they would be married off,” said Singh. would have to make his way to school.

With no other option back then, the Since Guyana had not gained Indepen- family chose to concentrate on educating dence from Great Britain as yet, colonisers him. He also had to face the criticisms were still in charge of the affairs and oper- from other people in his community beations of the economy. cause prior to 1940, Indians hardly had “Whites lived in an exclusive area, a desire to send their children to school. in European-style houses while my famWhile the Africans saw the imporily lived in a house with mud walls and tance of education and were able to get patched floors; from the stories that I administrative positions, the Indians were heard, they were the masters although skeptical because there was the common it was called an indentureship system… rule that persons would have to convert to in my view it was a new type of slavery Christianity before being able to work in although East Indians had signed a con- the civil service or become a teacher. tract,” said Singh, adding that even in his Indians were predominantly Hindus childhood days, the post-indentureship life and Muslims, so the fear of having to conwas not very different. vert to another religion stopped them from taking certain opportunities.

A DAY'S WORK Instead of taking the decision to send Sugar workers, both men and women them to Catholic school, many people from had to work from 06:00hrs to 19:0hrs from Singh’s community decided to let their Monday to Saturday. It was quite similar children plant rice. to the days when the East Indians were initially brought to British Guiana to work SLOW CHANGE as indentured labourers.

It was not until 1950 when local politAlthough there were some differences ical leaders lobbied for the system to be such as the opportunity to attend a school changed, that youth had an opportunity to and move away from the field life, only study and work freely without changing boys benefitted because girls were affected their belief or preference. by the social pressures.

“After 1950 the Indians developed a Instead of being sent to school, the consciousness to educate their children. girls had to get married at a young age. I was fortunate to be born in a time of Singh said the only option the girls had change because I had an opportunity to was to learn how to sew for one year be- teach, attend UG and even migrate and

study abroad… now I am retired but still function as a Pandit,” said Singh.

Although times have changed, he said some of the cultures still exist, like the reading of scriptures and religious ceremonies.

Singh believes that a large part of the Indian culture has been diluted, in some cases for the better.

He even pointed out that Bollywood music which was a big thing back then has been blended with English to form Chutney music and so forth.

The religious leader said the Indian culture has come a far way over the 180 years since their ancestors first set foot in Guyana.

HISTORY OF INDIAN ARRIVAL TO GUYANA According to the his-

tory books, two ships, the Whitby and Hesperus were chartered to bring indentured labourers from India.

The Whitby sailed from Calcutta on the 13 January 1838 with 249 immigrants, and after a voyage of 112 days, arrived in Guyana on May 5 of that same year. Five Indians died on the voyage. The ship immediately sailed to Berbice and 164 immigrants, who were recruited by Highbury and Waterloo plantations, disembarked.

The ship then returned to Demerara and between 14-16 May, the remaining 80 immigrants landed and were taken to Belle Vue Estate.

Of the total of 244 Indians who arrived on the Whitby, there were 233 men, five women and six children.

The Hesperus left Calcutta on the 29 January 1838 with 165 passengers and arrived in Guyana late on the night of the 5th May, by which time 13 had already died. The remaining 135 men, six women and 11 children were distributed between the 8-10 May to the plantations Vreedestein, Vreed-en-hoop and Anna Regina.

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

Greedy individuals are contributing to the ‘minibus fiasco’

By Francis Quamina Farrier IT HAS taken me over 20 years to get sufficient material and evidence to write this feature article the way I need to write it, simply because I drive slowly and very carefully, even as a journalist. No speeding for me. The issue at hand is the ongoing madness on our roads, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and countless injuries over the past three decades. So let’s concentrate on the ‘minibus fiasco’ which contributed greatly to the madness and slaughter of so many precious Guyanese lives.

Now let me alert you that I am hereby extending congratulations and thanks to all the very good minibus operators who give safe and comfortable service to their passengers, one ride at a time. Of course, it would not be possible for me to list the names of all these good operators since they number in the hundreds.

However, I have pulled one ‘Gold Star’ operator’s name out of my “Best Mini Bus Operators” bag and came up with Michael Moore of the Route 45 in Georgetown. I must also give special mention to the Bell twin brothers. Their service

Michael Moore, is among my top 20 best minibus operators in Guyana

as minibus operators is also of “Gold Star” standard.

Now let me go into the meat-of-the-matter; right into how I have gone about this decades-long project. From back in the late 1970s when Guyana’s own international superstar Eddy Grant, at the behest of President Forbes Burnham, brought in a number of (red) minibuses to prop up the transportation needs of the Guyanese people at that time, and later, the gesture to importers of minibuses being granted tax exemption

at the order of President Desmond Hoyte, during the mid 1980s and onwards. Following that encouragement to minibus owners, I continued to note very closely, their operations in the country. Many seemed to be extremely greedy in how much they wanted from their minibus operation.

[I have been] observing the very poor service, especially the BOOM BOOM boxes, the speeding and reckless driving, (dangerous over-taking) resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Guyanese over the years. Over two decades, I also took to accessing minibus operations in many of the sister CARICOM countries, in order to make comparisons.

The countries included Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Lucia, Jamaica, Suriname, the Cayman Islands and others.

I also observed minibus operations in three African Countries- Ghana, Senegal and Togo- at first hand. InciThe remnants of a crashed minibus which took human lives

A memorial on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown where a minibus crashed resulting in multiple fatalities

headline; those greedy individuals who are one of the main causes of the ‘minibus fiasco’ in Guyana; Many of them are referred to as “BOSS MAN” by the bus operators, as such, I respectfully address them in a similar way.

Mr BOSSMAN, you have to recognise that in demanding a mega million jackpot earnings at the end of each day, you are in effect ‘driving’ your bus operators to speed, overload and also behave less than professional.

Mr BOSSMAN, I am tempted to accuse you of being culpable in the deaths and injuries of thousands of your fellow

dentally, motorcycles are used as taxis in Ghana and Togo.

During the past decade, I interviewed many persons who use minibuses on a regular basis, to get their views and suggestions for the establishment of better mechanisms to be put in place for the needed improvements of the operations of minibuses in Guyana, since there are likely over 50 per cent of workers and students use minibuses to get to work

The ‘Hot Plate’ madness at the Route #45 minibus park at Stabroek Market

and to school.

A strict code of conduct, including proper and clean attire by drivers and conductors as one important element, was one of the recommendations.

A mandatory bath by operators before turning up for work was another. Photo Identification tags with clearly visible names and numbers to be worn by both driver and conductor was also suggested. A special minibus hotline to be installed at Traffic Headquarters for passengers who have complaints was also suggested. Will the powers-that-be consider such recommendations, or will the madness on our roads continue with so many people seriously injured and killed?

Now to the aspect of the

Guyanese over the past three decades. Do reflect and tell that “man in the mirror”, that he needs to reduce the amount he demands from his minibus operations every day. In effect, reduce your greed and help save lives.

Since this is an article also intended to give kudos to the professional minibus operators, I have another positive minibus story for you. Some years ago I was travelling from Georgetown to Timehri in a Route 42 minibus. The driver’s cell phone rang three times during the journey. On all three occasions, he very briefly explained his intent and apologised to the passengers as he pulled off the road and stopped the bus. He made the calls very short; 45 seconds at the maximum.

That experience moved me to write a letter to the Traffic Chief, informing him of the excellent performance by that minibus driver. Yes, there are those minibus operators who do their service at international standards and we have to be proud of them and let them know that we appreciate their contribution, to help bring “The Good Life” to those Guyanese who “Watch De Ride” in comfort and safety. It would also be nice for passengers to tell those good minibus operators, “THANKS,” as they exit the bus.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

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A growing field The physical therapist’s role

By Gibron Rahim THE medical field offers a wide range of career options.

As it has evolved, the field has become increasingly specialised to provide the highest quality of medical care to patients. One of these growing fields is physical therapy.

In physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, practitioners aim to reduce pain, restore function and promote the mobility of their patients. Neil Barry is among Guyana’s practising physical therapists. He told the Pepperpot Magazine that he was interested in science since nursery school before he even knew the word “science”.

“I was always thinking scientifically,” he said. When he grew up, the decision to study physical therapy felt only natural considering Neil’s background in sports. His athletic ability allowed him to represent Guyana at cricket and track and field. “In trying to improve myself I started to get injuries and through injuries, I learned about rehabilitation,” he related.

Practising physical therapy allows Neil to combine sports and science, more specifically medicine.

Neil is presently employed by the Ministry of Public Health. He and his colleagues see a variety of patients on a daily basis in Vreed-en-Hoop where he is currently stationed. He explained that they handle orthopaedic cases twice a week. These include patients who have common fractures or are suffering from degenerative diseases, such as osteoarthritis. Another two days a week are dedicated to patients who have suffered a stroke or spinal cord injury. “I also see quite a few athletes,” Neil said.

He also noted that there is a day set aside for seeing children who might have developmental delays with the goal of helping them to achieve their developmental milestones and lead normal lives.

AWARENESS NEEDED A lack of awareness is the challenge that Neil identified as currently facing physical therapists in Guyana. He noted that a physical therapist is not usually the first choice where he is currently stationed as there are usually persons that villagers seek out for complaints that require massages or cracking bones, for example. “However, I think we’re really starting to make an impact because quite a lot of persons have had good results,” he pointed out. He explained that he and his colleagues have been able to help individuals suffering from common conditions, such as osteoarthritis and stroke, and were taken in by their family members for treatment.

Neil noted that medicine is moving towards becoming more evidence-based than ever before. He explained that high-level evidence has been finding that physical therapy specifically is more effective than surgery in treating lower back pain and damaged shoulders. Additionally, “Physical therapy is extremely important in helping a person recover from a stroke,” he said. He cited additional evidence that pre-operational physical therapy increases a surgical operation’s chances of success. He explained that it is knowledge of this kind that he and other physical therapists are trying to get out to the public. “For most conditions, as long as you have any form of disability, physical therapy quite often is the first stop.”

TECHNICAL DETAILS While physical therapy is a very hands-on field, practitioners also use a wide variety of tools to help patients. There needs to be an assessment before any of those tools are applied, however.

Neil explained that a physical therapist’s assessment can be very similar to a doctor’s. “Except that we are very conservative so we do not deal with internal medicine,” he said. There are tools that enable measurement of the amount of joint movement and mobility through various parts of the spine. In terms of treatment, physical therapists utilise electrotherapy modalities which Neil clarified is essentially the use of electricity to stimulate pain relief or sometimes, healing.

Physical therapists also make use of magnet therapy and kinesiology and other forms of orthopaedic tapes. “We might prescribe braces and other forms of assisted devices to help somebody with their mobility and ambulation,” added Neil.

Among the practitioner’s tools that may sound unusual at first are low-level lasers and therapeutic ultrasounds. He explained that, while ultrasounds are better known for being used for scans, they can also be used for healing. Hot and cold ther-

Neil Barry, physical therapist (Photos courtesy of Neil Barry)

Neil working with a client with severe spinal cord injury

apies, as well as hydrotherapy, are also used to help patients.

In addition to lack of awareness, Neil noted that there are numerous other challenges to be dealt with. He pointed out that many of the challenges he and his colleagues face are similar to those faced by other medical professionals who work in public health and are exerting efforts to get the public healthier. “We are also trying to challenge the burden of chronic diseases – diabetes and hypertension,” he related.

Physical therapists, he said, stress movement and physical activity which he noted are very effective in preventing chronic diseases, as opposed to relying on medication. He pointed out that, even as lifespans have increased, health spans have not. Neil explained that there is physical therapy available that can help with the prevention and management of chronic conditions.

BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY Physical therapists need to work closely with doctors. In addition to working alongside doctors every day, Neil explained that physical therapists also work in hospital wards. He related that physical therapy can help in-patients with numerous problems they may have. This includes helping them to move their limbs around and change their positions. Inactivity can also lead to the development of deep vein thrombosis which physical therapy can help prevent. Physical therapists also handle referrals from orthopaedic personnel, both before and after surgical procedures.

In addition to physical therapy, Neil is very passionate about the similar field of sports therapy. He is currently pursuing sports medicine at the graduate level and has taken a number of advanced sports training and sports therapy courses. “I believe I have a lot of knowledge that I can share to help athletes,” he

said. “The only way I can really be impactful is to get the word out there. It is his intention to educate as many persons as he can with regard to sports therapy and perhaps even inspire others to become involved as well. He related that Guyana is behind the world in the way we prepare athletes along with our overall mindset to sports.

Physical therapy has its hurdles, just as other fields do. To handle those hurdles, Neil related that he is very self-motivated, adding that motivation comes from one’s goals. He would emphatically recommend the field of physical therapy to others. He pointed out that there is currently a very low ratio of physical therapists to patients in Guyana.

“It’s a very exciting field,” he said. “[It’s a] very broad field and it’s a growing field, one of the fastest growing fields in the world so it’s highly recommended.”

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

The International Decade for People of African Descent

Its importance for craftspeople

By Gibron Rahim THE United Nations has declared the period from 2015 to 2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent. One of the main goals of proclaiming the decade is to recognise people of African descent as representing a distinct group whose human rights must be promoted and protected. Art and craftwork can do much to educate and inspire throughout this period and beyond.

Moreover, artists and artisans can extend their influence beyond their art or craft pieces.

Juliana Hughes was recently presented with the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Award of Excellence for Handicraft. She uses seeds and beads found right here in Guyana to create jewellery that is eco-friendly, a fact that helped her win the award. She told the Pepperpot Magazine that, though she is not currently attached to any organisations, she has been attending events pertaining to the International Decade. She most recently attended the International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD) Summit 2018 that was held this past March at the Marriott Hotel.

Hughes is able to express her heritage through the pieces she creates for Jah Works, her business. “I have a mission to make Guyana’s seeds beautiful and marketable,” she said. She related that she is committed to the idea that natural resources are not just below the ground Patricia Helwig but above it as well. She explained, “This creativity came (Photo courtesy of with us, our ancestors when they brought us as slaves.”

Patricia Helwig) Through her craft pieces she wants people to see that beauty can be found in natural materials such as seeds, wood and bamboo. She noted that nature was once used in this manner and opined that it seems the world is returning its focus to the natural world and natural materials.

STAYING INFORMED Another way Hughes keeps herself informed about developments in African movements is through programmes on the television. She remarked that, in her personal opinion and as a Rastafarian, she supports repatriation. However, she advanced the idea that repatriation does not have to be physical. “It does not necessarily have to be a physical repatriation where people move and go back [to Africa] but you must be able to repair the mind,” Hughes said. “And that is basically the purpose of the repatriation struggle,” she added. She gravely noted the barriers people of African descent face in learning their history and getting a sense of value of themselves. She thus stressed the importance of learning true world history, unmarked by the erasure of African culture and contributions.

FIVE PILLARS Louis Jordan noted that five pillars have been chosen for particular focus for the International Decade – expiation, education, equality, equity and entrepreneurship.

A craftsman and owner of his own business, Demerara Journey, he explained that African contributions have been the backbone of Guyanese culture from Emancipation to the present day. “Our contribution has been noted and has been vital and integral to the development of the country as a whole,” he stated emphatically.

Jordan drew attention to the present local government system which he said came out of the village movement. He pointed out that the development at that time occurred without outside assistance and has not to date been replicable. Noteworthy too, he explained, is the fact that many millennium development goals had Louis Jordan already been articulated by ancestors back in the days of the village movement.

In addition to being a craftsman Jordan is also an electrician by profession. He noted that being an artist is more of a hobby and a passion. Jordan related that he and his artist colleagues have been producing work that showcases the rich African heritage that has been passed down from their ancestors. He has observed that artists and artisans have been mobilising and organising themselves into groups for the Decade thus far. He added though that outreach capability is subject to the limits of available resources. Jordan placed emphasis on the importance of the expiation aspect of the Decade and the reparations that it involves. “There must be reparatory justice,” he said for the enslavement of the African ancestors. “This is important to us, it is a healing factor.”

Being an artisan is also among Patricia Helwig’s numerous roles. She related to this publication that the International Decade will create Turn to page X ►►► awareness among people of African descent. “It

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

Sitting on a

VII

‘multi-million dollar’ enterprise

Sherl Daniels’ natural hair care regimen

By Zena Henry AT FIRST, it was just about providing the best hair care for herself. It was about ensuring the right ingredients were used for the best results.

Thirty-year-old Sherl Daniels wanted to go natural. She was well aware of the cost associated with elaborate salon hairstyles, the weaves and alleged miracle-working ‘big name’ hair care products; but she was even more aware of the price to be paid from the fatigue and the use of chemicals on her natural hair.

She told the Pepperpot Magazine that she recognised that it was not her alone who wanted to go natural. That many women, especially those like herself, with a more complex hair texture, were finding it very difficult to locate products that catered to their ‘woolly’ hair type.

She said those hair types could be difficult to manage and without the right products, the task was even more difficult.

It was fate, however, that sometime in

agement. She said it was while vacationing in Suriname that she met a “bush negro” girl (as they are called there) through a friend. “This [extremely dark],” she explained. “But her hair was long to her butt, and it was so thick.”

Astonished and intrigued by the length and body of the young lady’s kinky locks, Daniels said she inquired of the girl what her secret was, and through a translator was told some of the products used by her tribe. On another occasion, Daniels said she met a mixed woman, who looked Indigenous but wore a full head of thick, long woolly hair. Armed with the information received from the “bush negro girl”, her mixed friend and natural remedies known to Guyanese, Daniels said she started using some of the products in her hair.

“I was using all these expensive products

Sherl Daniels first produced the oil and mega growth treatment

2009, she crossed paths with two young ladies from different cultures and backgrounds who gave her some insight into proper hair man-

Great success as Sherl’s Cosmetics made new customers and sold 95 percent of products brought in for the recently held Uncapped Exhbilition at the National Stadium

and my hair looked nice, but it wasn’t growing. I combined those local products and those other things I learned along the way, and my hair started growing. So I decided to go fully natural because the product was actually working for my hair.”

NEW DIRECTION Daniels said she had been using her own products since 2009, but started producing on a commercial scale in 2015 when she finally decided that enough persons were asking for her product, which also had great potential for growth. “I finally decided, hey… this could be a business. So I started producing the mega growth and the hair oil first.”

Turn to page X ►►►

VIII

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

Reliving their struggles, resilience and fortitude

– Echoes from the plantation more than just a movie to Guyanese

By Navendra Seoraj ONE hundred and eighty years ago, East Indians were brought to British Guiana to work as indentured labourers but, most of their descendants are unaware of the struggles they faced while here so Producer, Kishore Seunarine made a movie that would help persons to relive the struggles, resilience and fortitude of their ancestors.

“Echoes from the plantation” was released a week The cast of Echoes from the plantation at the launch in Guyana (Delano Williams photos) ago in Guyana at the Aracari Resort and already persons have developed a close connection to the er was encouraged to make a movie out of it. storyline, said Seunarine who was also the director of the “One day while performing it on stage, I looked at the movie. crowd and saw tears in the eyes of persons of the audience The movie shows how East Indians were introduced to and I said to myself that I am connecting with these people,” the plantations after Africans were emancipated in 1834 after he said, adding that after he came off the stage the motivation years of facing the greatest crime against humanity, slavery. to make the movie was there immediately.

Although there was a contractual agreement between the Conceptualising the movie was no hard task for him beBritish and the Indians, their time as indentured labourers cause he has been an actor since 1977. Given the knowledge was almost similar to what the Africans had endured. and experience already there, he decided to start making the “Many people do not know about the story and I am not movie in 2017. going to live forever to tell it so I wanted to create the movie With the assistance of the late Pandit, Gansham Lakeram to celebrate my ancestry and Indian heritage. For instance, and Alex Wayne, he was able to get a strong cast of Guyanese when people view it now, it can still be shown year after people who were here and also those who lived in the United year,” said Seunarine.

States of America (USA).

The script was written in 2014 and performed live on Seunarine even went to the extent of hiring actual cane stage at different festivals around the world until the produc- cutters to perform in the movie to add to its authenticity.

Although the cast members were competent, he said some of them were clueless about their heritage and ancestral history so even they were given a lesson while acting.

After everything was in place, filming began in October 2017 and took four weeks to complete but, the short time span was filled with challenges, said the producer.

“One of the challenges was that Guyanese are friendly people and a bit too laid back so a few people were late and that held back the filming of the movie,” he lamented.

There were also problems with the equipment and placement, said Seunarine, noting that the hardest place to shoot a scene was at Perseverance, Essequibo because persons did not turn out for the filming.

Despite all the odds, the movie was a success and he said his intention will be to promote it throughout the year then look at the possibility of making it a Guyanese sitcom.

The producer is hopeful that the movie will inspire young people to take note of their ancestral history and probably even go further into it than he did.

Echoes from the plantation has already premiered in New York, Guyana and he is looking to release it in Holland, England and Kenya.

Some of the actors said working on the movie was a great learning experience for them because some of the things brought out in the movie were not known.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

IX

A proud product of Albouystown

Yasmin ‘Nesha’ Deonauth

By Shirley Thomas

TRADITIONALLY and until today, flowers have been and continue to be a symbol of love and appreciation and a great way of saying “I love you” and “Thank you Mother” on Mother’s Day. And interestingly, whatever our choice of gift, it always seems the package would not be complete without flowers or at least one rose. So, one can imagine the disappointment of a mother who is not fortunate enough to receive that precious emblem on her special day.

In Guyana, at the break of the month of May, there is usually a surge of activity as women and girls, in particular, begin putting together floral arrangements, making orders for custom-made bouquets or making choice selections from amongst the hordes of colourful and attractively designed bouquets available around town and the coastland.

And as we continue to ‘talk flowers’, today, the Pepperpot Magazine would like to feature Mrs. Yasmin Deonauth, Managing Director of “Nesha’s Flowerland”, a woman who has been involved in the flower business for about 25 years and whose products keep getting bigger and better each Yasmin Deonauth – Founder and Managing Director of the popular “Nesha’s Flowerland” year. Yasmin has developed located at Church Street Georgetown, Guyana a reputation as possibly being one of Guyana’s Number One playing hopscotch, Chinese skipping, hide florist – offering bouquets, dry arrangements and seek, blindfold and I was virtually a little and fresh flowers among other things for sale. tomboy… always climbing,” she recalled with Not only is she recognised for the signifi- an air of nostalgia. cant impact she has made as it relates to making flowers available for Mother’s Day and A MOTHER’S LOVE on all other celebratory occasions, but for the Her mother Mangri, also called ‘Punna’ admirable way in which she discharges her sold fish in the East La Penitence Market and duties as a wife; maternal duties as a mother was known for her warm, caring and comof four; and dutifully caring for her sick moth- passionate nature towards, not only those she er to the time of her (mother’s) death. She knew but to the less fortunate. fully understands the challenges of having After her mother fell ill, Yasmin was children; doing business, while performing always there for her, physically nursing her maternal duties. She is, however, grateful for and comforting her every step of the way. the support given her by her husband. She is Then came Mother’s Day and as usual she married and has an attentive husband along- bestowed her beloved mom with a beautiful side her to give her that support. bouquet of flowers – not for one moment realising that it would have been her last gift HUMBLE BEGINNINGS to her. Five days later, she breathed her last An accomplished florist, Yasmin, who breath. And to this day, Yasmin holds fond comes from humble beginnings was born memories of her dear mother and best friend. and educated in Albouystown where she has Initially, Yasmin attended Dolphin Govbeen living for the last 50 years or so with her ernment School in Charlestown, then at age family. She proudly recalls the fun times she 13, migrated to the United States of America and her five siblings had while growing up in where she lived in Washington D.C. and Albouystown, where none of the yards were attended the Woodrow Wilson High School fenced, and as children, they played freely where she did very well. “At the school, I was with other neighbours regardless of ethnicity. told that you had to secure 18 or 19 credits “But somehow the kids always seemed drawn before being able to graduate. But by the time to our yard and together we had great fun I reached 12th Grade, all I needed was about

another two credits. I carried myself very well and a lot of students would think that I was a teacher,” said Yasmin.

After graduating from high school, Yasmin decided to enter the world of work and so while yet in the United States, launched out into the flower shop business. It was an incredible success, but somehow she kept longing to return to Guyana which to this day, holds treasured memories for her.

She returned to Guyana and even after marriage she continued living in Albouystown where all her children were born and had their early education before proceeding to university. Two of her children are in China – one about to finish her Master’s Degree, the other a PhD. - while a third is attending the University of Guyana and the fourth is at Marian Academy.

BUSINESSWOMAN Yasmin’s first venture when she returned home was to set herself up a flower shop in

Guyana, leaving off where she did in the United States of America.

And incredibly, even while doing her flower business for 13 years, she successfully ran the “Bollywood Night Club” on David Street and Vlissengen Road. Despite her busy schedule, imbued with an incredible amount of energy, she was always on time to open the doors of the flower shop next morning.

“Those were the best enjoyable times I’ve ever had in business,” she recalled.

Yasmin, whose business establishment was destroyed by fire four days before Christmas some years ago, never buckled, but demonstrated strength of character and resilience, working resolutely and within a record two weeks was able to come back on stream.

Moreover, she has been credited for her consistency in the business; her contribution to national development as an entrepreneur and her contribution to the training and development of her staff.

X ◄◄◄ From page VI

will help them to know their worth, it will help them to know how powerful we are as a people,” she emphasised. She noted that many people of African descent may not feel that they have value and that others are superior to them because of their skin colour. Helwig does not subscribe to that misconception.

“Nobody is better than me,” she made clear. “I am a very powerful black woman, a very proud one too!” She explained

that raising awareness through seminars and workshops can make a difference in changing mindsets.

Among Helwig’s many hats are the professions of teacher, sociologist, caterer and cosmetologist. She has worked along with the Ministry of Human Services and later Social Cohesion. Through her collaboration with these ministries by offering training in the areas of catering, fabric design and cosmetology she has come across people who were school

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018 dropouts or victims of teenage pregnancy, incest or sexual assault. “Everybody that I have worked with I have given some counseling,” she explained. Helwig took on the role of mother and best friend and has learnt much from her work with those individuals. And she has imparted much knowledge in addition to the skills she taught.

MORE INITIATIVES NEEDED Helwig noted that, to her mind, not enough initiatives were being held to commemorate the decade. She opined that the removal of religion and corporal punishment from schools has caused a moral breakdown. The situation is further exacerbated, she said, by the dissolution of the community spirit whereby the entire neighbourhood looked out for a child. She explained that there should be “pockets”, safe spaces where adults can mentor and help children.

Among the initiatives Helwig would like to see come out of this decade are more clubs for children of African descent and more meeting places in general for Afro-Guyanese. She posited that the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) could be doing more to help, in addition to the school it already has. “There’s much more to be done!” she declared. Helwig also noted that, as the head of a craft association, she knows that many craftspeople are willing to share their knowledge with those interested in learning. “Lots of persons want to impart their knowledge but how? It’s a lot of red tape.” ◄◄◄ From page VII

Currently, ‘Sherl’s Cosmetics’, the brand, produces hair oils; mega growth hair vaseline; conditioners and shampoos.

Her new line will include body washes, bath soaps, toothpaste and other natural –based hygiene care products. They include ingredients like tonka nut; local ‘owara’ oil and fat; lots of Vitamin E for healthy skin, hair and nail growth; peppermint oil that leaves a fresh tingling feeling and smell when applied; ‘cookrit’ oil; coconut and castor oil among other familiar and unfamiliar, but natural ingredients.

The mega growth comes in three sizes; small to large from $600 to $2000. The oils are from $600 to $1200 small and large bottles, while the 250ml shampoo and conditioners are $1000 each. These items come with a packet of 12 Vitamin E capsules to be consumed.

GROWING CUSTOMER BASE Because Daniels is a nurse, she understands the need to not only care for the hair but to care for the body to allow for shine, beauty and growth. “We have to remember that if we are not eating well, or just not caring for ourselves, then we will have ugly looking nails, hair, and so on,” she said. Daniels offers a complete care package with excellent after service.

She provides information on how to use her products, treat; steam and manage the hair. She said her business has over 100 customers and continues to grow. She said every week she receives new customers; expressing surprise at how the product is getting around through word of mouth and good reviews by those using it.

Daniels told the Pepperpot Magazine that should she put 100 percent of her effort behind her business, she believes it could become a “multi-million, even a multi-billion dollar enterprise.” She said her nursing career takes up much of her time, but it is something she loves as well as producing hair products and receiving praises for her effort and amazing creation.

EXPANSION She said she would nonetheless like to grow her business.

She envisions mass production in her own production facility, with large shipments of her goods reaching women of varying hair textures around the world. She said that because her products are natural it works for any hair texture, skin tone and handles just about any problem. “Whether its dandruff, dried out hair, growth issues, you name it, the products work,” she said. She stressed that hair care is a process that would require patience and dedication, something many persons eventually fall short on.

She said she is especially excited about Guyana finding oil and the prospects of that since she expects energy and other costs to reduce, to help with growth and higher profits.

Sherl’s Cosmetics is located at 460 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown. She is currently offering a special package for the upcoming Mother’s Day. She can be contacted on 668-2085, 625- 1128.

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

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An evening of wine and sexual health conversations

‘When women support each other great things happen’

By M Margaret Burke IT MAY seem shocking that in this 21st Century, matters of sex and sexual health are still taboo but that is the reality in many countries! Sexual health topics in Guyana, for example, are shrouded in shame and secrecy and this translates into many dire consequences such as persons being unable to avoid unwanted pregnancies due to lack of knowledge.

There is therefore much need for such projects in Guyana, which would seek to remove the restrictions around sexual health discussions, especially with a populace that is Guest Speaker, Ms. Elsie Harry (standing) conducting a session on women empowerment expected to talk less openly about matters of sex, said Dr. Patrice Douglas, Leader of the SRHR Adventures.

The Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Adventures, fondly known as SRHR Adventures, is a local volunteer group that aims to promote issues relating to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), with a special focus on family planning and contraception in Guyana. The guest speaker for the event was Ms. Elsie Harry. At the same time, several female doctors and other ladies actively participated in the evening’s happenings.

SIPPING ON WINE Last weekend the SRHR Adventures hosted a fun and interactive women’s event captioned ‘Le Plaisir – An evening of wine and sexual health conversations’ at the St. Sidwell’s Parish in Georgetown. Thirty-two women attended this event and Ms. Shannon Toney doing the vote-of-thanks happily mingled with each other while sipping on wine and candidly being engaged in discussions on matters of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) such as family planning, orgasms and the importance of the clitoris in a safe and non-discriminatory environment.

The Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association and Nigel’s Supermarket were singled out for making special

After a great session, members of SRHR Adventures pose for a photograph

contributions, which served to make the event the success it was.

A COMMUNITY SPIRIT AMONG WOMEN This event was hosted with the aim of fostering a spirit of community among women, while having an open discourse on female’s sexual and reproductive health (SRH).

Specific objectives of the event were to raise awareness on the importance of the clitoris and its relationship with female orgasms; to discuss family planning and contraception; to assert the critical role pap smears play in the early detection of cervical cancer; and also

Ladies participating in an ice-breaker entitled “Guess which reproductive organ I am”

to empower women through conversations on health issues, especially as it relates to their reproductive health, as well as their health in a more general manner.

This sexual health discussion, therefore, provided a safe space for women to speak openly without fear of being judged. It also presented the opportunity for women to be able to dismantle many of the myths around sexual reproductive and other health issues.

EVENING WITH A “BANG” The event-planners described the evening as a pleasurable one that started with a bang.

“There were amazing door prizes and ice-breakers that created the perfect atmosphere of sharing amongst the women. Empowering speeches and amazing facts were then followed that stirred questions to which answers were given in the gathering,” Dr. Douglas informed.

She said that as it simmered down to closing time the ladies were empowered with positive affirmations, not only about themselves but for each other with love being evident across the room as hugs and warm smiles were shared.

Meanwhile, the SRHR Adventures team expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association and Nigel’s Supermarket for making special contributions, which served to make the event the success it was. Special thanks have also been extended to Rafiki’s Cake House for the delicious cupcakes they provided.

Dr. Douglas said that she would also like to thank the volunteers of SRHR Adventures and the beautiful ladies that came out to support the event.

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

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All concerned must be involved

- If community sentencing is to be an effective deterrent

By M Margaret Burke

more intensive, but successful sentences so as to ensure that rehabilitation takes place. In so doing there must, therefore, be sufficient flexibility in determining which requirements will be effective – based on the offender and also the offence committed.

IMPRISONMENT speaks to the whole idea of punishment for the person who may have committed a crime, but it does not stop there. By being ‘put away’ the offender is immediately removed from the public, thus providing some protection for the wider society. At the same time, it is hoped that with the act of incarceration, the inmate would never want to repeat the offence again – he is deterred. A person who would have had such an experience should be a prime target for rehabilitation; once there are UNDERUTILISATION OF systems in place for this.

SENTENCING However, with rising criminal behaviour and the conHow many first offenders comitant rise in the prison population, the cost attached to the become re-offenders after they State, as well as the tax-payers of the nation can become very would have exited the prison burdensome. In addition, the rehabilitative work that should walls and gate as free citizens be done may hardly be effective when there are people from yet again? The fact is that peodiverse circumstances and backgrounds to attempt to ‘school’ ple desire a justice system that in a congested setting.

Still, finding answers The Law Courts of Guyana in Georgetown and solutions to the plight (Delano Williams photo) of overcrowded prisons is a must. Other than the problems that people on the outside can be subjected to as a result of the effects of overcrowded prisons, there is hardly any scope for the inmate to return to society a better person – someone who has been re-oriented / rehabilitated.

The Supreme Court of Guyana in Georgetown (Delano Williams photo)

JUDICIAL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY The judicial system has their clear parameters for the various offences and ensuing sentencing. Nonetheless, with the deviating nature of crime and criminal behaviour, which can and do cause overcrowded prisons, judicial authorities must, within the limits of the stipulated laws, apply sentences in a sensible and responsible manner.

Much authority is vested in judicial powers that be, but with this authority comes responsibilities – a moral obligation (within their ambit) to ensure that the society continues to be safe and comfortable.

Inherent in the judicial system, especially as it relates to the sentencing of offenders should be trained minds that are geared towards supporting a system of governance for the good of the people; a system of caring personalities and also a system that works.

Community sentencing is no joke; it is a serious The blurred vision of an offender being matter and must be seen as such. Built into the whole led away from the court (File photo) community sentencing arrangement must be checks and balances for radical reforms, where there is a rigid reporting system, which ensures that the community sentence is properly carried out with reports of any they feel is protecting them from crime and one in which they progress made by the offender. feel convinced would adequately punish those who want to While the justice system must be an independent legal inflict harm – in any form on them. organisation, free from the impositions of governments and However, many first offenders, for example, who may or other public or private organisations, it cannot work in have committed what seem to be a not so serious crime, but isolation of every other organisation or system within the one which can be punishable by a relatively large fine or a sensociety. There must be collaborative efforts at varying levels tence (to prison), on the other hand one who with the option so as to ensure that in cases where offenders are sentenced of the court can be placed on community sentence instead, is to community service he or she is gainfully occupied at the not given the latter. As an alternative, he or she is sentenced specified times and the required impact is made. to prison or put on such a fine that he or she cannot pay, thus Even where it may be seen as punitive, to an extent, there the sentence is then imposed. seems to be the need, in some cases, to implement tougher, Community sentences must form a very crucial part of the

justice system. The courts are not only there to ensure that people are punished with fines or prison sentences; their more important role is probably a corrective one; one in which the society see improvements in the lives of those who might have otherwise be disposed to criminal behaviours.

BUILD UP AND NOT DESTROY The legal system, made up mostly of judges, magistrates and lawyers are all prudent people – they are the ones that can find solutions to societal issues, especially related to crime and justice. Therefore they are expected to use good judgment to build up and not destroy souls who appear before them – in some cases crying out for help. Yes, the ‘books’ may read that in such and such a case sentence should or could be passed, along with a fine or if the fine cannot be paid, they should be sentenced. But is there any flexibility within such a system? On the other hand, is there another option, which is community sentence – but it is not the preferred way to go?

Community sentence must be a trustworthy system, one that is designed for effectiveness – punitive to some extent, with there being some restrictions on the offender’s liberty.

It cannot be ‘business as usual’ for the offender, there must be some level of toughness, which would in one case send a firm message to the offender while giving a message to the society that the legal system is serious; that though it is community sentence it is impacting.

Care must be taken, though, to ensure that the imposition of community sentences does not go overboard with punishment or the over-punishing of the offender – putting him or her through unnecessary embarrassment, trauma and the like. At the same time careful study must be done of each individual offender – their physical, mental and psychological temperament so as to ensure that where they are assigned, as well as whatever the assignment is can and would be carried out, along with a built-in reparation and rehabilitative programme. Community sentence can work once all the major players coordinate well and have serious implementation with built-in accountability. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

Solar drying helps to preserve food THIS week NAREI in Focus will continue to look at green energy with focus on solar drying in keeping with the country’s green agriculture agenda.

For generations, persons have preserved fruits and vegetables by sun drying. In fact, it is one of the oldest agricultural techniques

related to food preservation. With the advancement of technology and the demand for healthy, low-cost natural foods and the need for sustainable income new techniques have been developed.

Solar drying is a crucial part of the National Agricultural Research and Extension

Institute (NAREI)’s green energy agenda for the processing of agricultural process. Green energy comes from natural sources such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, plants, algae and geothermal heat.

Drying preserves foods by removing enough moisture from food to prevent decay and spoilage. Solar drying is done in an enclosed space where the air in contact with it is heated by solar radiation. By heating the air its humidity is reduced and thus its effectiveness as a vehicle for removal of moisture is increased.

The technology and capital required to dry fruit and vegetables by solar dryers are basic and the entire operation can be completed in most kitchens. The structure can be very basic, e.g. a box frame covered with plastic sheeting.

ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR DRYING • Drying is faster because inside the dryer it is warmer than outside.

• Less risk of spoilage because of the speed of drying. (if the drying process is slow the fruit start to ferment and the product is spoilt).

• The product is protected against flies, pests,

rain and dust.

• It is labour saving. The product can be left in the dryer overnight or during rain.

• The quality of the product is better in terms of nutrients, hygiene and colour.

• Smaller drying space is required.

• Allowed for longer storage.

BENEFITS OF SOLAR DRYING There are real benefits in solar drying foods.

The obvious benefit is food security for households but it also creates employment opportunities and a sustainable income.

• Dried products improve family nutrition because fruit and vegetables contain high quantities of vitamins, minerals and fibre.

• For diabetics, dried fruit prepared without adding sugar is a healthy choice instead of desserts.

• Dried fruit can be used in stews, soups and casseroles or enjoyed as snacks. It can also be added to cereals for breakfast or used in making ice cream and baked products.

• It improves the bargaining position of farmers. Sometimes farmers sell at very low prices during the harvest season because they cannot store or preserve their surplus products.

DAYS OF CHIVALRY NOT OVER

By Abdool A. Aziz

THEY fondly called him ‘sweet-boy’ Tony.

Many a maiden fell for him. But he got a rude awakening when he tried to seduce this pretty miss born under the sign Scorpio. She was slim, tall and powerful. She was a young executive who was disciplined, focused and ambitious. Her hallmark was contentment and practical living. No complacency and no foolish sentiments.

“Sir,” she said to the handsome Tony “I’ve heard those compliments before, try speaking from the heart.”

“But I am speaking from the heart,” he retorted.

“Well, show some action, demonstrate your love to me. Try to win me over by being a ‘Knight in Shining Armour’.”

This young lady with a dynamic personality was no push-over. She was controlled by her head and not her belly. She was not subject to volcanic emotions. Tony was the opposite, full of sentiments. One day the scorpion lady decided to visit a farm to write a story on fish cultivation. He had to burrow through some bushes.

“Not me going through there, I am afraid of snakes,” she said.

Tony seized the opportunity to dip her up like King Kong and took her through the tall grass.

“Can’t see you get hurt,” he said. Her heart got a shot of joy at the genesis of chivalry. The lady liked it. They stopped beneath a coconut tree.

“Hmm, those nuts look good,” she said.

Tony could not climb but he tried and yanked a few.

“Be careful boy!” she yelled.

But she felt good, this guy was no coward.

He was risking injury to get her something to drink. It was another badge of honour for Tony. He cut the nut, gave her to drink and had his kerchief ready to wipe the stains from

her hands. On the way back, he again lifted her through the bushes, this time out of emotions he kissed her. She leapt to her feet and gave him a stinging slap. She hurried away.

Too fast, my boy, too fast! He felt ashamed.

What he didn’t know was that the lady admired him for a brave act. He was acting out his love in a subtle way. That was her first kiss and she felt its amorous sensation.

Tony would visit her on Sundays with a bouquet of flowers and a slab of Cadbury chocolate and gave her a sweet kiss on the jaw. Gentleman Tony was now entering her protected heart. Love in its infancy. The scorpion was coming from her raw-hide heart to cotton.

One day, there was an accident a distance away. All the household ran to the scene leaving her and her paramour alone. Tony, overwhelmed with love and the naughty misbehaviour of his libido, made a move to caress. She was a fragile person. He was a macho man. She said “No one is here but control yourself, I’d like to hug you too but I am afraid of the consequences, besides you’re still to earn my love. Let’s begin with trust and respect. Have patience you’ll be surprised, one day,” she said.

Yes, he felt embarrassed. No fornication for this lady. Little by little, acts of chivalry inoculated her heart with ecstasy but she displayed no emotions. He showered her with words of praise and love. His days of philandering were over. He met his soul mate and was ready for marriage.

She harboured a great liking for him.

But on the level of courtship, she retained her dignity and something else. “You qualify to marry me, but you are a long way to earn my love. Your deeds will be observed,” she said. That marriage was consummated a month later. When she decided, Tony graduated from the true love academy.

The IT Factor Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

By Clinton Duncan

“IT GIRL” is slang for a beautiful, stylish young woman who possesses sex appeal without flaunting her sexuality. Note that the most important aspect of this persona is that she doesn’t “flaunt” her sexuality. Moving along…

The phrase is believed to have originated in British upper-class society around the turn of the 20th century.

Rudyard Kipling first utilised the term in his quote “It isn’t beauty so to speak, nor good talk necessarily. It’s just ‘It.’” The expression reached global attention in 1927, with the popularity of the Paramount Studios film “IT”, starring Clara Bow. Elinor Glyn, the notorious English novelist who wrote the book “It” as well as the screenplay, lec- Tanya Taylor sketches (Getty Images) tured: “With ‘It’ you win all considered an ‘itsy’ if you’re not making men if you are a woman and all women if you are a man.” It’s a certain money, quite frankly if your art is not bringcomplex ‘X’, a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ if ing in coins, you have a hobby, not a job.

So, my dear models, actors, writers, makeup you may.

I believe we put too much effort into artists… GET UP, FIND IT, USE IT! One particular facet of an ‘itsy’ is that expressing “it” nowadays. Too much skin, electric lipstick, peacock plumes as eye- she knows her fashion references and she lashes. This is not to say that any of these knows them like an old Pentecostal grandthings are fundamentally negative, however, mother knows Psalms 91. So, for those of even with the simplest square frock and no you in the juvenile stages of your fashion makeup and messy hair, one who is really journey, I have decided to bless you with 20 a true fashion diplomat should still execute Quotes from fashion legends all across the globe…. You’re welcome: that vibration of chic put-togetherness.

“Fashion is part of the daily air and it Having the “It factor” is more of an inherent lifestyle, a personality that extends changes all the time, with all the events. You beyond wearing and mimicking whatever can even see the approaching of a revolution social media recommends. As expressed in in clothes. You can see and feel everything the age-old adage of famous (or infamous in clothes.” —Diana Vreeland “Don’t be into trends. Don’t make if you know your fashion herstory) Yves Saint Laurent, “Fashions fade, style is eter- fashion own you, but you decide what you nal”. Fashion is about what is trending, that are, what you want to express by the way society said is “supposed to be” while style you dress and the way to live.” —Gianni is genetic- cosmic even- an extension of our Versace “Elegance is elimination.” —Cristóbal innermost beings to the eyes of other humans. “Style comes from knowing who you Balenciaga “Shoes transform your body language are and who you want to be in the world; it does not come from wanting to be somebody and attitude. They lift you physically and else or wanting to be thinner, shorter, taller, emotionally.” —Christian Louboutin “What you wear is how you present prettier,” says Nina Garcia, author of “The yourself to the world, especially today, little black book of Style”.

“Itsies” as we will refer to them from when human contacts are so quick. Fashion now on, have a special taste in music, they is instant language.” —Miuccia Prada “I don’t design clothes. I design dreams.” read widely and reference their imagination instead of Instagram. They experience the —Ralph Lauren “Fashion is about dressing according essence of moments instead of trying to take to what’s fashionable. Style is more about selfies in those moments.

Fashion is just one way of expressing being yourself.” —Oscar de la Renta “The best things in life are free. The your ‘it’ and the buck shouldn’t stop there.

Think bigger and wider. If you have an ar- second best are very expensive.” —Coco tistic voice with a unique aesthetic, use it, Chanel “I think there is beauty in everything. don’t just sit around wasting time. Write, What ‘normal’ people perceive as ugly, paint, research, execute, GET PAID! I’m rather sorry to say that you can’t be I can usually see something of beauty in

it.”—Alexander McQueen “Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.” —Diane von Furstenberg “Fashion is the armour to survive the reality of everyday life.” —Bill Cunningham “When in doubt, wear red.” —Bill Blass “I don’t design clothes. I design dreams.” —Ralph Lauren “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” —Yves Saint Laurent “Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous, but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing.” —Alexander Wang

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“The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.” —Hubert de Givenchy “In difficult times, fashion is always outrageous.” —Elsa Schiaparelli “Clothes mean nothing until someone lives in them.” —Marc Jacobs “You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet.” —Christian Dior And most importantly…

“Stand out, blending in is so last season – Clinton Duncan

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY

YESTERDAY, Arrival Day was commemorated. Arrival Day is one of the significant days in the Holidays Calendar in that it marks the building of a greater

Guyanese nation.

Plantation slavery, though officially ended in 1834, in fact, continued with the Apprenticeship System until 1838. In

1838, the African freedmen were permitted to leave the plantations which they did in increasing numbers. With this movement from the plantations grew the Village Movement whereby African freedmen and women purchased abandoned sugar estates and established villages such as Buxton, Victoria and Queenstown in Essequibo.

To meet the labour shortage which occurred with Emancipation and the exodus away from the plantations by the African freedmen, the planters scouted the world to find a regular and able labour supply. They brought indentured immigrant workers from Malta, Madeira, the islands of the Caribbean, from India and China.

Of these, the Indians were found to be the most suitable and so the planters concentrated on importing Indians who came to be the main workers on the plantations.

Approximately 240,000 Indians were imported. About one-third of them died before they could return to their homeland, one-third returned to India under their indenture contracts and about one-third of them remained in the colony on the plantations. Indian indentureship ended in 1917.

The basic characteristics of the Indenture System which continued for approximately 80 years were that a worker was recruited for five years to work on the sugar plantations with the promise of an agreed wage. They were to be given housing and were to be transported from Calcutta to Guyana and returned at the end of their indentures, except they wished to re-indenture. But the terms of their indenture were never respected by the planters and the immigrants found themselves entrapped in a situation little better than slavery.

Indeed, the early indentured immigrants were treated almost exactly like the slaves before them.

The life of the indentured workers was not a happy one. The workers on the sugar plantations were the lowest paid in the colony. They worked from sunrise to sunset, the logies in which they lived were the same ones which formerly housed the slaves, their food was of poor quality, there were no recreational facilities, no proper hygienic facilities or drinking water. There were no educational facilities for children who were forced to be engaged in child labour.

Their culture and religions were regarded as inferior and treated with contempt.

From 1872 onwards there were continuous labour disputes erupting in eight major ones, the last of these being at Enmore on the East Coast Demerara and the first being at Devonshire Castle estate in Essequibo in 1872. Owing to the resoluteness and commitment of the workers, the planters felt they could not negotiate settlements in their favour and had the colonial authori-

ties declare these labour disputes “riots� so that they could be suppressed by military means with some workers being killed.

The reasons which precipitated these labour disputes were only taken cognisance of after the police violence and loss of life.

Despite their harsh living and working conditions, a good percentage of the sugar estate populations evinced the entrepreneurial spirit and economic creativity as well as development of their cultural and religious life.

The immediate economic impact the indentured workers made was that in a few years after their arrival, they were able to quadruple sugar production from the base year of 1838 and this trend was maintained.

And the same trend was seen in their other contributions to the economic advancement of the country, especially in agriculture: They established a viable rice industry which helped to give Guyana food security and a steady foreign exchange income. The coconut industry was established with numbers of profitable coconut estates resulting, among other benefits, of the country being self-sufficient in cooking oil. They established a dairy industry and for most of the 19th and 20th century supplied the country with fresh milk until powdered milk replaced fresh milk. They also became producers of ground provisions, bananas and plantains, and other market garden produce, contributing to a more plentiful and affordable food supply. And from the latter half of the 20th century, the indentured servants and their descendants went into industry, increasing the wealth and employment of Guyana.

The economic contribution made by these indentured workers and their descendants is immeasurable.

Guyanese cultural life has also been greatly enrichened by these indentured immigrants. Indian cooking and recipes have been integrated into the general Guyanese cooking; dhal-puri, for instance, has become one of the most common, nutritious and affordable snack foods. And Indian dress has become part of the female fashion world. Indian music is much heard and has become part of the corpus of Guyanese music, and so is it with the performing arts in general.

The Indian arrivals had introduced Hinduism and Islam as organised religions to Guyana and to-day Guyana is unique in having the three great world religions, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity living side by side in the greatest amity. And unlike in other countries, members of these world Faiths have no difficulty in supporting each other and even participating in their activities. Indeed, there are quiet and unconscious religious exchanges taking place among these world Faiths which are found nowhere else in the world. One such is the important belief among most Guyanese people is that all religious paths lead to God. Indian Arrival Day therefore not only marks the first arrival of Indian indentures but it commemorates the beginning of the evolution of a greater Guyanese nation.

FILES E S A C COURT

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

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Judge usurps functions of jury by finding

Murder accused not guilty on no-case submissions IN 1984, the Guyana Court of Appeal found that a High Court judge usurped the functions of the jury in a murder trial when instead of sending the matter to them he found murder accused Alvin Mitchell, not guilty, of the murder of 32-year old waitress, Nastawantee Persaud, on defence no-case submissions.

He then directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty in favour of the accused, who he subsequently discharged.

The then Director of Public Prosecutions, believing that the circumstances of the case require the judge to send the case to the jury for a verdict, utilsed the DPP power under the law to request the Appellate Court to review the matter.

Sequel to this, the Guyana Court of Appeal, constituted by Chancellor Keith Massiah and Justices of Appeal Mr. Charles Fung-AFat and Mr. Frank Vieira, who carried out the review, was critical of the judge’s action, as being irregular It was pointed out by the Appellate Court that where the defendant in a criminal proceedings submits a plea of no-case to answer at (or before) the end of the prosecution case, the trial judge ought to send the case to the jury if, in his opinion, there is sufficient evidence on which a reasonable jury (properly directed) might (in the judge’s view) convict, if, however, the evidence is so unsatisfactory, or unsound that no reasonable jury could convict on it, or if the evidence, (even if all of it is believed ) is so weak, tenuous or insufficient that it cannot yield a lawful conviction, the trial judge should withdraw the case and direct the acquittal of the defendant.

Chancellor Massiah who noted that the evidence in the court supported the view that the jury should have been asked to decide the fate of the accused, referred to 35 cases in support of the Appellate Court’s judgment, including that of R.V. Hookoomchand and Sagur (1897) LRBG 12.

At the review, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Ian Chang, S.C. with Mr. Albert Baldeo, represented the DPP while Mr. David Wray appeared for Mltchell.

Under the heading, ‘Reference by Director of Public Prosecutions, it was said that Alvin Mitchell was indicted with murder. At the close of the prosecution’s case he submitted that there was no case to answer. The trial judge upheld the submission and directed the jury to return a verdict of “Not Guilty”.

The Director of Public Prosecutions of Guyana referred the following question to the Court of Appeal: “Was the trial judge correct in law on the evidence led by the prosecution in this case in ruling that a case had not been established requiring the accused person to lead a defence?

Setting out the facts in his judgment, Chancellor Massiah said: “At about 8:30am on Sunday, 7th February 1982, a party of policemen attached to the Bartica Police Station made a macabre discovery at Two Miles, Bartica-Potaro-Road. There in a clump of bushes about 10 feet from the road they discovered the dead body of 33-year-old Nastawantee Persaud. The body, clothed in a blouse that was unbuttoned, was face upwards, and was exposed from the waist down for the skirt was raised and the under garment was missing. The legs were spread apart, and there oozed from the vagina what appeared to

be blood. There was grass in the pubic area.

Several injuries were seen.

Shortly, before they made the discovery, the police party, about a half mile away, at One and a Half Miles, Bartica–Potaro Road (a point nearer to Bartica than Two Miles), had come across a number of articles which were identified as the property of the deceased by Lilapattie Romohan, the niece of the deceased .

Among the articles found was a shoulder-bag which was lying on the road. On the bag were what appeared to be drops of blood.

About five feet away, in a clump of bushes, a pair of yellow panties was found. Attached to it was a sanitary napkin. What appeared to be blood was seen both on the panty and the napkin. Nearby was a girdle.

The police party which Lilapattie Romohan accompanied to the Bartica-Potaro Road had been galvanised into action when Romohan reported to the police station on the morning of 7th February, 1982 that her aunt was missing from home .

At about 3 o’clock that morning, Romohan, one Waveney Gill and the deceased, together left the Nest Discotheque in Fifth Avenue, Bartica, where they worked as waitreses. (The word “discotheque” is popularly contracted into “disco” without any connotative loss, and that variant will be used in this judgment .) Romohan and her companions had worked the night shift and were on their way to the deceased’s home in Fourth Avenue where they all lived.

On their way home they met Alvin Mitchell who was driving a Land Rover. Three other men were in the vehicle. Mitchell was a regular patron of the Nest, and the night before he was seen there at a dance. Mitchell offered to take them home in the vehicle. Gill and Ramohan declined the offer. After some apparent hesitation the deceased accepted, declaring to her companions that she would reach home faster than they.

Her expectations never materialised, for when Gill and Romohan reached home on foot they discovered to their consternation that the house was securely locked and that the deceased had not arrived there. Overcome by tiredness they soon fell sleep. When Romohan awoke that morning at about 7‘clock the deceased was still not there. Naturally Romohan became alarmed. She then went to her uncle’s home and inquired about the deceased but there she learnt nothing. She next went to the Bartica Police Station and reported the matter. It was then about 8 a.m.

The police left soon after for One and a Half Miles, Bartica-Potaro road, on the strength of what one Benjamin had told them, and they found the articles already mentioned about.

Shortly afterwards they discovered the dead body of the deceased.

The cumulative circumstance led the police to conclude that the deceased had been murdered. Suspicion fell on Alvin Mitchell (the person last known to have been with her) who by then had hastily fled to Georgetown.

He was arrested there on 8th February, 1982 and taken to the Bartica Police Station on 11th February, where he was duly charged with murder.

Mitchell was subsequently indicted with murder and faced his trial at the Criminal Assizes in Geogetown in January, 1984. The evidence against him was almost wholly cir-

cumstantial. At the close of the prosecution’s case, counsel for Mitchell submitted that there was no case to answer. The prosecution vigorously contended that there was. The trial judge upheld the submissions and formally directed the jury to return a verdict of “Not Guilty” Mitchell was accordingly discharged.

The Appellate Court in reviewing the case as requested by the DPP concluded that “When regard is paid to all those events and evidentiary circumstances, it seems to me clear beyond peradventure that there is sufficient evidence on which a reasonable jury properly directed might have convicted

Mitchell.”

By George Barclay According to Chancellor Massiah, “That satisfies me that the test in Hookkoomchand and all the other kindred cases which explain the relevant common law position, including of course, the local cases that gave benediction to Hookoomchand. Whether the jury would have convicted Mitchell is not a consideration that properly comes within my purview. The evidence is sufficient on which they might have done so and that is enough for present purposes.”

folklore DEAD WATCH XVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

By Neil Primus

HAROLD knocked on the door and a female voice called, “Come in.”

He entered a small office and saw a middle-aged woman doing some paperwork.

“How may I help you?” She spoke as she worked.

“I’m Harold Canterbury and I applied for a job here,” he said.

She put the papers aside and began paying full attention.

“Please sit down, Mr. Canterbury.”

Harold sat on a hard wooden chair and put his bag on the ground beside him.

“The only vacancy we have remaining is for a security guard.”

Harold was quick to jump at this.

“That’s fine. I’ll take it.”

He smiled broadly trying not to show his desperation.

“The pay is only $12,000 a week. One day off,” she said.

In the last four months, Harold would have been lucky if he got that amount per month. He wasn’t going to miss out on this.

“I’ll take it, Mistress. I come prepared to start now if you want.”

She smiled and shook Harold’s hand.

“I’m Mrs. Douglas, owner and manager of Sleep Sweetly Funeral Home.”

“F..F…Funeral Home?” He asked in a shaky voice.

“Yes. Don’t worry. I know what you’re thinking. There is nothing to fear.”

She laughed loudly and Harold began to relax. If a woman didn’t have misgivings about corpses why should he?

She stood up.

“Let me show you around,” she said.

It was a large three-storey building. On the ground floor was the holding area. All corpses were kept there. They were frozen, thawed, washed, dressed, made-up and otherwise prepared there. There were four dressing tables and four wash bays with the necessary toiletries.

On the second floor were two chapels and a viewing area where three different bodies could be laid out. On the top floor was the owner’s living quarters.

At nine each night the gates were locked. Harold’s job was to guard and protect the property. There had been recent incidents where people had tried to steal the property of the dead. On a few occasions, they had even attempted to move the corpses. He would have to stay alert.

Harold returned at seven that night ready for work. His black bag was well packed; flashlight, food, coffee and rum.

Yes, rum. There was no way he could manage to stay so close to dead people without a few drinks under his belt. If he were sober he could never do it. His station was downstairs close to the holding area. He put his bag on the table and checked the premises. All seemed intact.

At nine o’clock Harold locked the gates, made another round of the building and retired to his station. An hour later he ate then began taking a few drinks. He took shot after shot.

The rum felt warm in his belly and the fear of being among the dead seem to retreat more after each drink. By the time he had worked his way through half of the bottle, he was drunk.

After several attempts, he finally corked the bottle and put it on the table. He then put his head on the table and, like most watchmen, went to sleep. His, however, was a drunken slumber. In his checks, he had not dared to enter the washing and dressing area because he had been told that two bodies were being thawed for dressing early the next day. This meant that they were laid out on the dressing tables.

Someone tapped him on his shoulder. He looked around and straight into the pale, ugly face of a corpse. The face had a blank haunting expression.

“Do you have any water? I thirsty,” it rasped.

Harold had plenty of water but he was fighting to keep it from running down his pants. He tried to speak but no words came. He tried to get up but couldn’t. Harold went into total panic. He started kicking and fighting trying to get up and run.

His voice returned and he began to cry and beg. “Help!

Oh, Lard help! Spare me!”

Falling to the ground, he tried desperately to get back up.

He felt weak and completely freaked. He was flailing around on the ground and crying in fear. His eyes popped open and he looked around him in terror. The lights had been turned on and a gentleman was standing over him admonishing him sternly.

“Pull yourself together man. You’re disturbing the bloody neighbourhood.”

The speaker was middle-aged and quite muscular. He was dressed in expensive brand name clothes and shoes and looked to be well off.

“Sorry skipper. I fell asleep and had a bad dream. He got Turn to page XXVI ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

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A Humanitarian response

By Shirley Thomas THE Guyana Division of the Salvation Army in April brought cheer to the hearts of several families whose lives were disrupted as a result of heavy winds, rainfall and severe flooding in villages across Region Three early last month.

Divisional Commander Major, Matignol Saint Lot, and his wife Major Mireille Saint Lot, Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries, along with a team of other Salvation Army officers, in a second response since the disaster, on Thursday distributed more than 100 food hampers, along with 25 mattresses to residents of Stewartville who adversely affected by the flood.

The initiative which had the support of the Region Three Regional Executive Officer, Denis Jaikaran, and his personal assistant Ganesh Mahaipaul, was facilitated in the Regional Boardroom of the Regional Office with the kind consent and cooperation of the administration.

In his opening remarks, Major Saint Lot said the Salvation Army was pleased to be able to respond, particularly to the needs of the little children suffering as a result of the disaster.

In his brief address to the gathering and the team of regional officers which included the principal assistant secretary (PAS), Major Saint Lot recalled how devastating the news he

D.C. Major Saint Lot and DDWM Mireille Saint Lot kick off the distribution process to the flood-hit victims of Stewartville. With them is REO Denis Jaikaran

received on March 5 was, informing him of the devastation suffered by the hapless victims through natural disasters.

He said that the Division wasted no time in travelling to the affected areas, and by the next day they had returned to the region where they did the first distribution on a house-to-house basis, though on a smaller scale.

The Divisional Commander who has spent the greater portion of his life in the Salvation Army working in Guyana, alluded to the commitment in Guyana’s National Pledge: “To love my fellow citizens,” adding that in effect, that is what the work of the Salvation Army is all about- loving other people and giving help where help is needed.

Major Matignol Saint Lot expressed profound gratitude to the REO and his administration for partnering with them and for carrying out the survey to ascertain where the need was greatest and the true victims of the disaster, so as to have them registered to be included on the distribution list; for making the facility available for the distribution exercise and third, and for providing transportation to take the mattresses, intended specifically for the children, to their homes.

Meanwhile, in welcoming the Salvation Army officials, Jaikaran expressed profound appreciation to the donor team for the kind gesture, which was aimed at bringing relief to the Turn to page XXVI ►►►

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Imam Baksh Wins a Second Burt Award for Caribbean Literature (Part I) GUYANESE writer, Imam Baksh, has been announced as the winner of 2018’s Burt Award for Caribbean Literature, which is a prize for children and young adult’s writing, that has been awarded as part of the Bocas Lit Fest in Trinidad and Tobago. He emerged as the winner over Barbadian writer, Shakirah Bourne, and Elizabeth

J. Jones of Bermuda.

Baksh won the award for the first time in 2015 for his then unpublished manuscript, Children of the Spider (now published by Blouse and Skirt Books). His second manuscript, The Demise of the Queen’s College Adventure Club was shortlisted in 2016 and now his third manuscript, The

Dark of the Sea has won the award. The Dark of Sea has been described by the jury of the Burt Award for Caribbean Fiction as “a fantastical adventure story” where “the humour is dark, the morality complicated and the victories bittersweet.”

The writer himself describes the book as telling the story of a boy who meets a mermaid (‘fairmaid’ in Guyana and other parts of the Caribbean) and is introduced to a “stimulating world beneath the waves.” Baksh notes that the idea for the book came about as he was finishing his second manuscript which presented a world populated with privileged children who had horrible and terrifying experiences, and that The Dark of the Sea was meant to be a companion piece to it by presenting a character that comes from unfortunate circumstances and experiences something wonderful.

The protagonist of The Dark of the Sea is Danesh, a poor boy who did not write his Grade Six Assessment, has a learning disability and lives in a part of Guyana that has one of the highest suicide rates in the country. This summary of the lead character brings into focus the various elements of the Guyanese (teenage) experience that is well represented in Baksh’s work. The author makes it clear that the Guyanese-ness of his work is deliberate, especially when he points out the fact that the novel highlights what he deems to be a moral issue in Guyana: the “warehousing” of children who write the Grade Six Assessments – a system which allows many thousands of children to fall through the cracks, to be lost or forgotten as they attend schools with very little or sometimes no effective “remedial literacy or math and no path to redeem themselves educationally before going to CSEC” – all while a handful of students, the top ten, usually, are feted every year. The importance of this issue to the writer clearly finds itself manifested in The Dark of the Sea in the character of Danesh.

Furthermore, Baksh identifies suicide as a theme that is prevalent in the book. Guyana has one of the highest suicide rates in the world and it was only a matter of time before local writers began addressing it in their work. The writer notes that death is “a fact of life in the Essequibo Coast where the book is set and the book is, in part, an attempt to answer the question of why we should choose to live even in a world that often makes us unhappy.”

In comparing the writing process between his two award-winning children’s books, Children of the Spider and The Dark of the Sea, Baksh has said that the process for each one was quite similar. His method involved using ideas and images “to build a rough provisional outline” followed by writing scene by scene from beginning to end.

He pointed out that sometimes he would skip ahead “to write certain important and enjoyable scenes” because he “was too impatient to wait.”

The differences involved in writing the process for these two books, Children of the Spider was a novel about an alien who visits Guyana, and Baksh says that he really had to think about the various elements of the country that an outsider would be most impressed by. Conversely, The Dark of the Sea is based on elements – places and people – the author is very familiar with. Baksh says that the book was written from personal memories and opinions that he did not have to sort out, and that “the mental effort went into creating the undersea world with its female-dominated society, its magic and history and their own set of principles that would contrast with Guyana to create a sense of wonder.”

Although The Dark of the Sea was meant to be submitted for last year’s Burt competition, the writing was derailed by Baksh’s chronic eye problems which temporarily hindered the completion of the text. Nevertheless, Baksh was eventually able to return to the book and completed it in time for submission to this year’s competition. Currently, he is one of the authors representing Guyana at the Bocas Lit Fest which is the largest and most successful literary festival in the Caribbean.

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Ending the scourge of Domestic Violence “THERE is a silence I find,” Dr. Peta Ann Baker said and paused to build the suspense, “I’m almost tempted to call it a culture of silence.” After only a handful of visits to Guyana prior, she had discovered that there was a pervasive silence surrounding certain social ills in the country.

Dr. Baker is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Sociology, Psychology and Social Work at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus. In June 2016, she visited Guyana for a few days to speak at the inaugural Professional Social Work Practitioners and Educators conference held then.

Fast-forward to May 2018, almost two years after Dr. Baker made her remarks.

Just recently there has been a fervent public uprising-an awakening-seeking to end this silence. Sadly, this uprising has come on the heels of a number of instances where domestic violence turned deadly.

It doesn’t matter what form-be it verbal, emotional, physical, sexual or a combination of these- the scourge of domestic violence in Guyana has gone past the point of being worrisome. During the past months, there

have been grim reports capturing the attention of all of us. Spousal battering and brutal murders have been frequent and the ramifications of these incidents are unimaginable.

I believe that dissecting the issue of domestic violence is multifaceted, as is curbing it. It is more than a frustrated or angry spouse lashing out and it takes more than a march or a symposium to combat.

Understanding all the intricacies of the factors that constitute a problem is critical to dismantling the problem. One of these intricacies that presents itself (quite ironically) is this culture of silence that emanates from the family and the wider community.

Sociological studies describe the family as the primary institution of socialisation. It is the place where new members are taught how to integrate themselves into society and the culture of the family, more often than not, affects how its members will engage with the rest of the society.

Perhaps many are aware that we have been conditioned to accept certain issues as ‘the way things are’ or to remain silent about matters that do not directly involve

us, right? Personal experiences permit me to highlight that fear of judgement (“What will people say?”) necessitates this silence. This leads to a cycle of embedding this silence; the younger members are taught to remain silent, to ignore and to move on, and then they pass this on until someone decides the cycle must stop.

Domestic violence illustrates a breakdown in the institution of the family and the frequency of this ill reflects this breakdown further. It is reflective of deviant behaviour and even so much as criminal behaviour.

This breakdown of the family is exacerbated by the pervasion of the silence we have been conditioned to adopt.

How can domestic violence be curbed then, if there is a ‘culture of silence’ taught and perpetuated by the family?

At the very same conference, Dr. Baker spoke at, University of Guyana (UG) Faculty of Social Science Senior Lecturer, Barbara Thomas- Holder ascertained that the culture of silence is real.

She shared one incident where she was investigating a matter and while conversing

with the affected persons, they were hesitant to speak out. More than being hesitant to speak, they were actually cautioned by other affected persons not to speak out.

What these persons had managed to do was effectively silence themselves in face of someone reaching out and trying to help them. Therefore, the culture of silence may be taught by the family but it is most definitely reinforced by the community and becomes normalised as part of the society’s culture.

This makes it even more critical to peel away this layer of silence that envelops domestic violence and other social ills. You cannot combat a problem if you are only aware of its occurrence when it becomes deadly. There must be scope for nipping issues in the bud and this can only come through awareness.

How many more beatings and murders need to occur before we decide that we ought to speak out, even on behalf of those lost in the cycle of helplessness-if they will not speak for themselves? Better must come.

Aspiring lawyer with a dream to give back to Guyana

GROWING up in a single parent home is evidently not easy i n most cases because, as reported on many occasions, there is a lack of affection, many struggles and sleepless nights but, 20-year-old Nicholas Nandan intends to use his past struggles as motivation to help others who may be facing the same or even a different challenge.

“My mom has been a single parent working for a basic wage. It was and is never an easy road but she always placed me first; I try not to reflect on my past because everyone has their own struggles but the theme women’s empowerment, is always portrayed in my mom who is my biggest supporter,” said Nandan.

Instead of being led astray because of what he faced, the now aspiring lawyer intends to convert his experiences and mother’s support into philanthropy someday.

Nicholas Nandan

Nandan who lives and studies in the United States of America (USA) is Guyanese by birth and heart.

“I have a passion for politics and the criminal justice sector; I am an aspiring lawyer with just under three years of studying to complete. I believe that the world of politics is not where it should be so I want to serve my homeland and give back everything I can to improve the state of affairs,” he posited, adding that those were his intentions since his days at the St. Joseph High School.

The aspiring lawyer said ever since he moved abroad, his primary focus has been to excel in his areas of study so that he could return to Guyana and serve his country.

He believes that growth comes from the idea of not settling but excelling and building on what you have.

Nandan, as such, believes that he has what it takes to be a front-runner to lead Guyana in the area of crime solving and

youth empowerment.

“I also pay keen attention to the environment as I see it as a flat space to build something great. The passion that I have for crime solving is also what often pushes me to further limits to achieve greater things,” he said.

Nandan receives an award for His interest in the criminal being part of the Dean’s List justice system is complementHe is confident that one day he will ed by the interest in becoming achieve his goals, especially because of the a local politician one day. He sees those support from his mother. areas as ways to contribute to Guyana since Nandan’s message to youths who might he has always tried to analyse crime, how they are committed and what measures have the same aspirations is to have pashould be put in place to reduce criminal tience and the passion to excel.

Youths were encouraged to look at acts. where they want to be instead of where “I will give back to my homeland by putting the people of Guyana’s interest and they stand because and remember that legal affairs to the forefront and using my life is not always about outclassing or knowledge and experience to solve them,” outgrowing it is about contributing to the improvement of society. said Nandan.

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Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

Overcoming the ‘blacklist’

Guyana making strides in accountability and transparency GOVERNMENT has been working assiduously since its assumption to office in 2015 to root out corruption, implement systems to safeguard the state’s resources and ensure that Guyana is in compliance with international norms and best practices. New legislation to ensure the protection of state assets, address the incidence of financial crimes and the financing of terrorism, root out corruption and ensure transparency and accountability have been put in place to ensure that the lawlessness, which once characterised Guyana, is eradicated.

In this week’s Government in Action, we will take a look at the measures the Government has taken to bring its financial laws in President David Granger addressing the Workshop, which was organised by the Government of Guyana in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and targetted Judges and Magistrates from Commonwealth member states compliance with international across the Caribbean best practices as well as the that Guyana enacts and enforces laws, which can protect the regulatory framework that is administered by an independent set-up of other institutions and legislation to tackle corrup- country from financial crimes such as money laundering and judiciary and the Government is cognisant of this fact. tion, money laundering, the financing of terrorism and other the financing of terrorism. CFATF had developed an Action On May 3, 2018, a two-day workshop, held under the financial crimes in and out of the public sector.

Plan with identified target dates to address the strategic theme, “Anti- Money Laundering and Countering of FiAmong the measures has been the enactment of the deficiencies that existed in Guyana’s national architecture nancing of Terrorism, Countering Violent Extremism,” orAnti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism. ganised by the Government of Guyana in collaboration with Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill, which has seen Some of the requirements included enhanced due diligence the Commonwealth Secretariat and CFATF, opened at the Guyana, moving from a place of being blacklisted to being measures; introducing enhanced reporting mechanisms or Pegasus Hotel, with its target being Judges and Magistrates in compliance with international best practices. systematic reporting of financial transactions, among others, from Commonwealth Member States across the Caribbean.

LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS CORRUPTION In 2013, under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Administration, Guyana was blacklisted by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) as a result of the non-enactment of the AML/CFT Bill. A blacklist for Guyana imposed hardships on the population, with the halting of financial transactions with major international financial institutions.

In 2015, however, when the coalition Government took office, its first mission was to ensure that the AML/CFT Amendment Bill was passed and systems put in place to ensure that Guyana was brought into compliance with the international norms and best practices governing financial transactions. On May 26, 2015, just 10 days after taking office, the AML/CFT Bill was passed by the National Assembly. This brought Guyana into compliance with the requirements set out by the oversight body, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Since then, significant strides have been made in ensuring

all of which the Government was able to address, bringing the country into full compliance.

In 2016, at the end of a plenary meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global organisation announced that Guyana has been removed from the global process in the light of its successful progress in addressing certain AML/CFT deficiencies but pointed out that the country will still be monitored to ensure its AML/CFT regime is improved.

“The FATF congratulated Guyana for the significant progress it has made in addressing the strategic AML/CFT deficiencies earlier identified by the FATF and included in its action plan. Guyana will no longer be subject to the FATF’s monitoring under its on-going global AML/CFT compliance process. The country will work with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), of which it is a member, to further strengthen its AML/CFT regime,” the body said in a statement at that time.

But transparency and accountability cannot be achieved without a robust legislative agenda, which establishes a strong

President David Granger, speaking at the opening ceremony, said that the rule of law must be strengthened and safeguarded to ensure that the fight against money-laundering and terrorist-financing is successful. The rule of law is society’s sword and shield against financial crimes. It is the bulwark, which protects citizens against despotism. Caribbean citizens, without the protection of the law, could become captive to slick organised crime. The criminal justice systems of small states must be safeguarded from the subversion of organised crime. The rule of law must be a shield, protecting our citizens and our institutions and a spear to combat money-laundering and terrorist-financing by inculcating norms which encourage compliance with the laws, increasing the likelihood of interdiction and prosecution of financial crimes and imposing penalties, which act as effective deterrents to such crimes,” he said.

The Head of State said that the Caribbean countries must be resourced and supported to protect their institutions against the threats of money-laundering and terrorist-financing as these states have become an attractive destination for finan-

Chronicle Pepperpot May 6, 2018

XXIII

President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Commonwealth Secretary General, the Right Honourable Baroness Patricia Scotland, Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque and participants of the Commonwealth, Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and Government of Guyana Workshop for Judges and Prosecutors at the Pegasus Hotel Guyana

cial pirates, privateers, money-launderers and tax-evaders.

President Granger said robust legislation and sturdy institutions are the weapons in the war against financial crimes.

“Guyana has strengthened its institutions – such as the Bank of Guyana, the Financial Intelligence Unit and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions – which have been empowered with the authority and autonomy and equipped with the technical resources and personnel to discharge their functions under its Anti-Money Laundering and the Countering Terrorism-Financing legislation,” the Head of State noted.

Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, in an interview with the Public Information and Press Services Unit of the Ministry of the Presidency recently, said that the David Granger Administration, since its assumption to office in 2015, has had the “Herculean” task of fixing the systematic corruption which existed under the former administration.

He noted that it is under this administration that significant steps were taken to improve accountability and transparency in the public sector and the world’s perception of Guyana.

“I believe in action and not just talk and the action is that our approach to the FATF, the commitments under the FATF is basically putting your money where your mouth is. Minister Williams is the Chairman of the CFATF and all of these steps have been taken since we came into office to ensure that we can move this country out of all these different lists as we call them, the blacklist, greylist, white list and all of these things. So that we are placed in a situation where we can now be an example to the rest of the region, we can be an example to the world, and what financial probity is all about,” the Minister of State noted.

GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO ROOTING OUT CORRUPTION Government has spared no effort in its effort to begin the long process of eliminating corruption at the national level.

The Government since 2015, has ensured that the work of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), which was established in 2013, fulfils its mandate. SOCU was one of the recommendations outlined by the FATF programme of activities to ensure Guyana’s compliance with international financial obligations. The Unit, an arm of the Guyana Police Force, is mandated to investigate suspected money laundering crimes, and to prosecute persons suspected of terrorism and financial offences.

Along with SOCU, the State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) was established as a result of obligations under the United Nations (UN) Convention Against Corruption. The

the Commonwealth Secretariat is pleased by the commitment shown by member states, including Guyana, in fighting these crimes and rooting corruption, which eats away at the fabric of society.

“We are encouraged by the commitment from all our leaders at Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be bold in our ambition and what we can achieve. Heads recognised that the Commonwealth has always been a strong advocate of the causes of small states...

We have a duty to be vigilant guardians, protecting the safety and well-being of all of our people and ensuring that we have the capacity to safeguard our institutions in order to safeguard them from being exploited by criminal and terrorist purposes. We know the difference in the money our nations need to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals and the money we have is the amount, which is syphoned off by corruption and illicit practice so the more we can interdict this… likely our Governments will have the money they need for the roads, the schools, the health services,” the Secretary-General said.

unit has been tasked with investigating claims of corruption and malfeasance committed against the State. Government has also ensured that the Integrity Commission, the Judicial Service Commission and the Public Service Appellate Tribunal were all put in place to ensure a corrupt-free, efficient and effective public sector.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Basil Williams, M.P., S.C. said that the State Assets Recovery Bill is Government’s reaffirmation of its commitment to stamp out corruption. He made clear the Administration’s stance that there would be no safe haven for those guilty of corrupt and criminal acts as it is the Government’s vision to build institutions based on justice and integrity.

The Act also deals with the establishment of the Recovery of State Assets Fund, civil recovery, and preservation of state property obtained through unlawful conduct and orders to assist investigation and international co-operation.

“The legislation will send a strong message that corruption at any level will not be tolerated by this Government. Those who plunder stolen assets must not be allowed to profit from them,” the Attorney General said.

Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, the Right Honourable Baroness Patricia Scotland, who also delivered remarks at the workshop for Judges and Prosecutors, said that

IMPROVING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY Minister Harmon said that the Government remains committed to the tenets of accountability and transparency and stands by its record of management in public office. On behalf of the Government of Guyana, he pledged that it will continue to govern the country with integrity and respect for the rule of law and public officials continue to be held to high standards to ensure that the Guyanese society does not return to the state of lawlessness it once was over two decades ago.

“I am convinced that we are on the right path. I am convinced that we are doing the right things, maybe not as fast as we need to do it, but sometimes when you have a heavy load, you have to fetch it and then at the same time, move forward, it slows you up a little bit and that heavy load and heavy burden is the years of corrupt practices, which we have to clean up that we inherited from the previous administration,” Minister Harmon noted.

Corruption in any form stifles a country and depletes the moral fabric of society. A corrupt society marred by criminality becomes a hazard to its citizens. The Government of Guyana, cognisant of this fact and with the commitment from President Granger and his Cabinet have embarked on a journey to ensure the country is governed in accordance with the rule of law and perpetrators of these crimes, which deprive society of critical resources are prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

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Love and faith celebrating 30 years LOVE and Faith Ministries in Sophia has been my home of worship for a number of years. There is no price tag attached to the number of lives that have been changed through this ministry under the leadership of Pastors Claude and Carole Brooks. I’ve been so impressed by the way they lead this ministry and the way they give their elders a chance to grow. They are certainly creating a legacy for churches in Guyana which reminds me of this quote: “A legacy is created only when a person puts his organisation into the position to do great things without him.” John C Maxwell.

There are a number of activities planned to celebrate the 30 years and the theme is “SONS OF GOD ARISE”. I enjoyed the commemorative walk from the Multilateral School where the church was first located to where it is now. We were singing, dancing and worshipping along the route and sharing out flyers and even when the rain came down we didn’t stop. The walk climaxed on the lawns of Love and Faith where they had buns eating and watermelon eating competitions. I didn’t

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Beyond the Runway even know I was that fit and I was expecting pains all over my body but I was well dressed in my six-inch heels and was worshipping the next morning in church!

The celebration continued with Wednesday night service and it was off the chains! It was all worship and no preaching.

Earl Bishop’s 30-minute segment was amazing. He is so talented! On Thursday, I had to meet sister Nandi who is in Guyana for the first time to look at the possibility of a cultural exchange project between Guyana and the US. After our meeting, she asked me where I was going and I said I was going to church and she asked me what kind of church it was, I said it’s called Love and Faith and it’s a Pentecostal and she said, ‘I’m coming with you,’ so I said, ‘Ok great.’ And it was another powerful evening of worship and she was right at home, just as if she’s been here before.

People always look at me

with Dr. Sonia Noel

... Inspiring lives through fashion funny when I say go to church during the week. I try to attend Wednesday nights service as much as possible because it’s a different teaching to Sunday service. The visiting overseas Pastors were Dr Keith Peetus and his wife Barbara Peetus, whose church I actually had the honour of visiting in Long Island, and Bishop Neville Noe and Pastor Kelvin Jonming.

It was also great to see a lot of local pastors taking part in the celebration like Pastor Ridley from Restoration Life and Pastor Simon Harris from the Ruimveldt Life Improvement Centre. The other event was the culture night where the young people performed some exceptional dances and songs. Saturday there was the Women’s and Men’s conference special service that brings down the curtains is scheduled for this afternoon at 14:00hrs and all are invited. Minister of State, Hon. Joseph Harmon will also be giving brief remarks. It will not be his first time at Love and Faith because he visits us occasionally. Churches and religious bodies have such an important part to play in the building of our nation and transforming lives.

“A life isn’t significant except for its impact on other lives.” Jackie Robinson. I know 30 years were not all smooth sailing but the church made it. Big congratulations to Pastor Brooks and team for continuing to lead the way.

Let’s continue to celebrate each other and acknowledge God and continue to enjoy this journey called LIFE BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

Thinking about conducting biodiversity research?

HELLO readers, with the International Day for Biological Diversity, another major day on the environmental calendar, on the horizon, this week’s article will focus on the Application Process for Biodiversity Research in Guyana. One of the functions of the Environmental Protection Agency is to protect and conserve Guyana’s natural resources, inclusive of its rich biodiversity.

This is necessary to ensure these resources and the information collected are used and shared in a manner to promote Guyana’s green development agenda.

Most persons are captivated by the fascinating videos and documentaries which reflect the intriguing and exotic plants and animals of Guyana. I’m sure you would agree that important to protecting and conserving what we have, is knowing what we have and the value of it. Therefore, to address this issue, the EPA has developed a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP

2012-2020). This document captures status and trends in biodiversity as well as the mechanisms to ensure adequate management and protection.

HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT EXISTS? Research, as one of the priority areas in the National Biodiversity Action Plan, will generate data on Guyana’s biological resources to ensure effective management. The EPA is responsible for coordinating research activities in conservation and protection of biodiversity.

AREAS OF BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH IN GUYANA ● Academic Research- Students conducting research in relation to thesis or for academic institutions.

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● Commercial Research- If any specimens, photographic and audio-visual material or illustrations are to be used for commercial purposes (present and future), a Commercial Agreement must be sought with the Government of Guyana. ● International Film Crew- Over the years, the EPA has received applications to film documentation of the country’s biological and non-biological resources such as the forests, wildlife, natural sites, hinterland communities and culture. Anyone interested in conducting such films is required to deposit copies of raw footage prior to their departure, and copies of the final edited version of the documentary.

HOW TO APPLY A non- refundable processing fee of USD $75.00 is charged for every application, however, this does not guarantee acceptance of the application. Applications made less than three months before the research will be conducted require a late application fee of USD $40.

The Permit varies depending on the nature of your research and the size of your team.

Applications for Biodiversity Research, along with supporting documents can be submitted

online through the National Biodiversity Research Information System (NBRIS).

Remember biodiversity is what makes life vibrant and interesting. It provides us with the essentials of life, food, water, shelter, clothing, finances, recreation, jobs, livelihoods, tourism, culture, etc. Support the preservation of our biological resources by applying when conducting research!

Any person, whether local or foreign, who is interested in conducting Biodiversity Research in Guyana, MUST apply to the EPA for A Research Permit.

GUYANA’S VISION FOR BIODIVERSITY By 2030, biodiversity is sustainably utilised, managed and mainstreamed into all sectors contributing to the advancement of Guyana’s bio-security, and socio-economic and low carbon development.

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

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suffering families for about the third or fourth time since the disaster.And speaking with firm conviction he stated: “When the Salvation Army communicated their intention to me, I was immediately eager that this should happen. And when I spoke with the team this morning, there was a clear indication that as of this day, there will be a great relationship between the Region Three administration and the Salvation Army.”

“Whatever the circumstances, this Region is going to stand behind the Salvation Army,” the REO affirmed, to deafening applause from the deeply appreciative gathering on hand to receive their relief supplies.

The REO observed the consistency with which the Salvation Army responds to people in need, noting that the response is quite commendable. And sending out a clarion call to the business community, Jaikaran stated: “And therefore we have, as citizens, to let the business community and those who are in a position to ensure that the Salvation Army grows in its work, know that their (the business sector’s) contribution is most important.”

Therefore, he opined, the business community has an equal and corresponding duty to ensure that they come on board and support the Salvation Army, that is giving to the people of the region in ‘all its form and in all situations, adding: “So this morning, I want to say thanks to them.”

The REO also urged the citizens to give generously and enthusiastically to The Army’s Christmas Kettles and other fundraisers whenever they are out on the streets or are selling fundraising tickets.

There were other persons from the gathering who also came forward to express their thanks and deep appreciation to the Salvation Army for meeting them at a point of their need.

Meanwhile, another distribution exercise for other flood-hit families was scheduled to take place at Leonora on Friday. ◄◄◄ From page XVIII

up and sat shakily on the wooden chair. It’s my first time so near to dead people.”

Harold tried to apologise. This was probably Mr. Douglas and he might just fire him. Instead, the man threw his head back and laughed heartily.

“So you ‘fraid de dead?” He enquired with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

“A little,” Harold offered cautiously.

The man looked at the half empty bottle of rum and Harold wished he had been sober enough to pack it away in his bag. He waited for the inevitable.

“XM 10 year Old. Nice.”

Harold looked into the grinning face and began to relax.

All was well. He pulled out his glass, threw himself a generous drink and handed the bottle to his friend. He drank straight from the bottle, Harold sipped his glass and they chatted.

“How long you working here?” he asked.

“My first night,” Harold replied. His tongue got freer with each sip.

“Boy, you does drink hard and sleep hard,” the man said and smiled broadly.

“I’m going to watch that from now on.”

Harold was taking no chances. After this drink, he might get together with his wife and still fire him.

“Don’t stress about it. A little drink won’t hurt anybody.”

“But what about yo wife?” Harold enquired.

The man looked puzzled. “My wife?”

“Mrs. Douglas,” Harold came straight to the point. “Will she allow drinking on the job?”

His eyes lit up in understanding. “You mean the woman who was trying to wake you up. You fell off your chair and didn’t even wake then.”

Harold seemed to be hearing all this from a distance.

“She’s not my wife. Wish she was.”

He winked wickedly at Harold.

Harold was totally confused. The rum, this situation and this guy were not helping the case.

“Who the hell are you man?” Harold demanded a bit irritated.

The man’s smile never wavered. “Oh, I’m the new corpse.

Nice to meet you Watchie.”

With a shriek that would put a siren to shame Harold raced out of there; destination unknown.

The End

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Sexual Assault and Mental Health LAST week we spoke about sexual harassment which I thought should be separated from sexual assault- although they are both prevalent in our society.

Sexual assault is in the more physical sense and refers to any inappropriate sexual contact without the given consent by the victim. Common examples are unwanted touching and groping to forcing the victim to perform sexual acts such as oral sex or penetration, also known as rape. To be clear, rape is a term that legally, can only be used when there is penetration. It is also important to note that forcing someone doesn’t always have to be physical. Someone can emotional manipulate, threat or coerce someone to perform a sexual act and it will still be considered assault.

Sexual assault can happen to anyone by anyone. Meaning, a victim can be sexually assaulted or raped by their friends, neighbours or even partners. Actually, the problem is that most people who were sexually assaulted were done so by someone they know. This makes it that much harder to come forward and share the truth trauma. While most perpetrators are men, men are often victims of sexual assault as well.

Sexual assault results in a wide range of both physical and mental issues. Even if it happens in childhood, the effects follow throughout life and have impacts that may initially not even be personally visible. Most victims that I speak to, whether it happened recently or over 15 years ago, have weekly flashbacks of the assault which negatively impacts their day and interrupts their sleep. Sexual assault results in low self-esteem and self-confidence, shame, isolation, severe guilt or even denial. It damages current and future relationships as the victims lose trust, respect and faith in others and even themselves. This then results in tremendous loneliness and feelings of helplessness. The assault, whether severe or not, can result in mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, Post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, self-harm behaviours and suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Issues with sleeping and night terrors are also quite common. Of course, all the above can result in a lack of

productivity and efficiency which means that the victim tends to lose employment or drop out of school after the assault.

Of course, the damage is more severe if the assault is committed by someone who is known to the victim- a friend or family member who remains in their life. For children, incest – which means someone in the immediate family, is the most common type of sexual assault.

Many who experience sexual assault also experience physical injuries. The most common include tearing, bleeding, bruising, broken bones or infections. In other cases, the victims may become pregnant or become infected with STDs or HIV/AIDS. Keep in mind, that if emotionally coerced, some victims may have sustained no injury at all- believe them anyway if they open up to you.

After the assault, the victim tends to develop unhealthy views of sex. They may shy away from it completely or be quite promiscuous and often engage in sexual activity.

There are a few myths about sexual assault. Sexual assault cannot be committed by a partner or spouse. If the victim has an orgasm that means they wanted it. People who are sexually experienced cannot be victims of sexual assault. If someone has consented once, that means they automatically consent again. Sexual assault is rare and hasn’t happened to anyone else around you. All of these are untrue.

There are multiple other reasons why victims do not come forward. They may be embarrassed, confused, guilty, threatened, scared and afraid that no one may believe them or even unaware that it is actually assault. Victim blaming is also common, worry about the consequences of speaking out, and fear that others will doubt their stories and the possibility of sexual scrutiny.

Because of society’s view, It is common for the victim to blame their self- thinking they did something to cause, allow or even deserve the assault. There have been too many times when I have heard “but why she out so late?” or “her skirt was very short.” It doesn’t matter how someone chooses to live their life or how to express themselves, it does not welcome

violation. A healthy and stable person does not assault others so it speaks more of the perpetrators than the victims.

THERE ARE SOME THINGS THAT WE AS A SOCIETY CAN DO TO HELP OUR VICTIMS. Believe and help them when they are strong and brave enough to speak out. Avoiding using trigger words facetiously. For example, I have heard some people use language like “that exam raped me”. It is very dangerous to use language so freely not knowing who around you has suffered an assault.

Offer unwavering support to those who have been assault- do not participate in victim blaming. If you see someone in a compromising position, step in and do something about it.

An effective campaign was done in Canada, where they posted signs which said: “It’s not sex when she is wasted and it’s not sex when he changes his mind.” The campaign allowed for a reduction in sexual assaults over the following year.

For those who have experienced sexual assault, know your triggers and try to avoid them as much as possible. Start a support group with others that may have experienced the same assault- trust me, they are out there.

There are also these organisations to call and or go in if you have ever experienced sexual assault.

1. Help and Shelter- Homestretch Avenue, Durban Park.

225-54731/ 227-8353 2. Ministry of Social Protection – East Bank Team- 2270137 - Georgetown- 227-4082/ 225-1117 3. Guyana Responsible Parent Association (GRPA) – 70 Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg. 225-53286/ 225-0739 Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. Also please remember when you can come see me.

Georgetown Public Hospital, Psychiatric Department: Monday- Friday – 08:00hrs-12:00hrs Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers – 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444 or 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

That shaking tooth IT IS well established what is generally the conventional approach by the dental practitioner to a shaking tooth.

When I was a young dentist thirty years ago me and my colleagues competed by seeing who can be the first to fill a bucket with teeth we extracted. Back then, what was thought to be excessive mobility was accepted as the only criteria to condemn a tooth to extraction. But the considered view of many experts today is that other factors should be taken into account before the hasty, stereotype approach is adopted. The intention obviously is to try to maintain, if possible, the tooth or teeth in the patient’s mouth for some more time, despite the fact that it may be shaking abnormally. This is achieved by a technique known as splinting.

Splinting refers to the joining together of two or more teeth to increase their resistance to applied forces. It involves binding a group of teeth together so that the biting forces are shared by a large number of teeth instead of being borne by the affected tooth. Splint therapy, by the immobilisation of teeth, was historically based upon the assumption that mobility (shaking) causes pocket information. Prior to the current understanding of the development of periodontal disease, the basic therapy was immobilisation of teeth. It was assumed that

horizontal forces were more destructive than vertical loading forces. However, experiments done since 1931 confirmed that this is not true.

Excessive tooth mobility can be a severe impairment of the function and comfort of some patients. When advanced gum disease has resulted in tooth migration (movement), extrusion (tooth appears to become longer), or progressive mobility, splinting should definitely be a consideration in the treatment as an adjunctive aid in periodontal therapy. It is believed that increasing mobility in the diseased dentition is harmful and should be treated by splinting. That is not to say that there are extreme cases which definitely require extraction.

There are several benefits derived from splinting. First, it allows the patient to chew comfortably because the shaking teeth become firm and the patient can use a regular brush, inter-dental brush, etc. without the fear of knocking down teeth. Splinting is done in conjunction with other periodontal therapy, such as scaling, root planning, flap surgery etc. It is also an adjunct to the preservation of hard and soft tissue thereby enhancing the patient’s self-confidence because he/ she is getting the opportunity to keep their own natural teeth.

In the healthy, splinting is done when the patient receives a blow to the mouth whereby the anterior teeth become loose.

In such cases of acute trauma, it is believed that splinting can aid in the repair of the injured attachment apparatus. Perhaps one can appropriately compare splinting in dentistry with the method placing a broken limb in a plaster cast for proper healing of the bone to occur. The principle is identical.

Splinting following adult orthodontic movement may be indicated to retain teeth in their new positions. Its efficacy is based on the fact that the splinting in this instance will allow remodeling of the alveolar (ridge) bone and allow the rearrangement of the fibres of the ligament that connects to the tooth to the jaw bone.

Splinting can sometimes be used in the treatment of occlusal disorders such as bruxism, clenching of the teeth often during sleep. These para-functional habits can cause changes similar to primary occlusal trauma (abusive biting such as opening beverage corks with the teeth) and are sometimes treated with rubber bite planes or night guards, which are forms of splints. The splinting of teeth can also be used to prevent the over eruption or drifting of unopposed teeth as well as to replace missing teeth. Materials used include acrylic resin, steel wire, silver amalgam and other metals. Splinting may be either short-term (three weeks) or long-term (nine weeks) or permanent.

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English STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, This bit on revision work is for you and my little friend, Wanda: Do much revision work as you can at this time. Search yourself to see what areas of study need attention, and then rate them. Plan strategies for each area and wisely pursue with undivided attention. Reach out to genuine helpers. Reach out, even more, to strengthen your own power of understanding, retention, and production. Hopefully, your examination result will be better than expected. Be wise.

Love you.

A SHORT STORY Short story model written by a student We’re heading to our cottage on Scenic Lake, a dull ache pounds in my head, and my stomach churns in rhythm with the motor. I stretch out comfortably halfway across the seat until I accidentally hit my sleeping sister, Tracy. Just a few months ago we could hardly fit in this back seat; that’s when my brother, Drew, was here. He would take up half the seat alone. The

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

The old order changeth, yielding place to new, And God fulfils himself in many ways, Lest one good custom should corrupt the world.

LORD TENNYSON ALFRED (1809-1892) The Passing of Arthur

pain stabs me and the memories quickly flood back.

We’re diving for Drew’s waterproof wrist watch as we did every year. Drew or I throw the watch as far as possible and the other person dives to find it. Since Drew is seventeen and I am only fourteen, he holds an unfair advantage, but I never complain. This time it’s my turn to throw it. He has already beaten me three times today by thirty seconds each, so this particular time I secretly throw the watch behind me. Drew bobs up and down the dock, searching for a glint of silver in the hot summer sun.

“Come on, Ben! What’d you do with it?” he frustratedly whines. I foolishly grin back, pleased that I have finally outwitted him at something. Grabbing my arm, he strongly twists my arm into a horrible snake bite.

Tell me, Ben, or you know what’s coming,” he whispers, checking for our parents. We glare at each other, flashing our ugliest poses. Finally, we break down laughing and I point happily toward the watch.

“You little ….” Is all I hear before he sprints off the dock and pulls into a flawless dive.

(Jeanie Skendzel writing in Merlyn’s Pen: The National Magazine of Student Writing) About the Story There are many features to open your eyes in this student’s effort.

1. Look how the writer prepares the reader in the first paragraph for the problem that is the basis of her story plot. Observe her technique. Here you should take note of the use of the present tense verbs. Why has the writer used this verb tense? Discuss it with a study partner.

2. Try to tell yourself what details demonstrate that the writer is interested not only in the actions and events but also in how actions and events affect her characters. Quote the sections that tell this.

3. Have you noticed that the writer tells the story from a ‘first person’ point of view, and uses the ‘first person’ pronouns ‘I’ and ‘me’? Remember that this point of view allows readers to know the characters better. Note how you can get a “you-are-there” feeling.

4. The characters involved in the plot are the two persons, Drew and Ben. The sister, Tracy; and the father and mother are mentioned, but they do not appear in the story. You can try doing this kind of thing, where a character’s name is mentioned in the plot, but he/she does not appear in the story. There is solid reason for this; discuss with your study partner.

IMPROVING WRITING A. Make verbs agree with their compound subjects.

1. Fur and feathers (cover, covers) many living creatures.

2. Neither people nor a bird (is, are) cold-blooded.

3. Either feathers or hair (keep, keeps) the body warm.

4. However, neither fur coat nor feathers nor warm blood (identify, identifies) a mammal.

5. The distinguishing feature or identifying factors of a mammal (is, are) a hair or fur covering, warm blood, and the ability to suckle young.

B. Agreement with Compound Subjects joined by “and” Reminder: A compound subject that is joined by “and” is plural unless its parts belong to one unit or they both refer the same person or thing.

PLURAL: The pastor and elders are praying.

SINGULAR: Bread and nutbutter costs two hundred and eighty dollars. [This compound subject is a single unit.]

John’s wife and partner consults him. [The one person is both wife and partner.]

C. Compound Subjects joined by “or” or “nor” Reminder: Compound subjects joined by or or nor (or by either… or or neither …nor), the verb always agrees with the nearer subject.

PLURAL: Neither the invigilator nor the candidates are writing.

Either the invigilator or the candidates are writing.

SINGULAR: Neither the invigilator nor the candidate is writing.

Either the invigilators or the candidate is writing.

D. Use many a, every, and each with compound subjects Reminder: When many a, every, or each precedes a compound subject, the subject is considered singular.

SINGULAR: Many a man, woman, and child knows about hunger.

Every inspiring poem, play and novel invigorates me.

Each inspiring poem, play and novel is invigorating.

E. Here are two reminders that will help you maintain agreement of verbs with their subjects.

1. Nouns ending in the suffix –ics are usually singular and take a singular verb form: Mathematics includes many different subjects.

Some nouns ending in –ics are clearly plural in meaning and take a plural verb form: The young big shots’ acrobatics are amazing.

2. a) Some nouns that are singular in meaning but plural in form take a plural verb form: Sammy’s new trousers are bright blue. b) Some nouns are plural in both form and meaning but take a singular verb form: The news about incest is more discouraging tonight. c) Other nouns that are plural take either a singular or a plural verb form: Mumps is contagious. Mumps are contagious.

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Entertainment

U.S. SEC orders rapper Jay-Z to testify on clothing brand sale Music mogul and businessman Jay-Z must explain details of the sale of his clothing line to determine whether it violated federal securities laws, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said on Thursday.

The SEC said it wants to question Jay-Z, originally named Shawn Corey Carter, about the $200 million sale of his Rocawear clothing label in 2007 to the Iconix Brand Group, Inc. “The Commission seeks Carter’s testimony to inquire about, among other things, Carter’s joint ventures with Iconix,” the SEC said, adding that it had questions about whether federal securities laws were breached.

Hours later, a Scandinavian law firm and a financial institution filed a lawsuit against the rapper over fees incurred during the purchase of Tidal, a digital music service he co-

owns with his wife Beyonce and two other star singers, Rihanna and Madonna.

The lawsuit claims that JayZ’s parent company, S. Carter Enterprises, hired the firms in 2015 to assist in the purchase of the subscription service’s owner, the Swedish company Aspiro AB. A balance of $598,383.00 is still outstanding after he made a partial payment.

“We are aware that the SEC is seeking information on Iconix’s financial reporting. Mr. Carter had no role in that reporting or Iconix’s other actions as a public company,” a representative for Jay-Z said in a statement to CNBC. “Mr. Carter is private citizen

who should not be involved in this matter,” the statement said.

In November, the rapper failed to appear after an initial SEC order. In February, the SEC issued a second subpoena for his testimony.

He declined to appear or provide any dates on which he would be available, the SEC statement said.

Jay-Z continued as chief creative officer of the Rocawear brand after the 2007 sale. Iconix also entered a separate joint venture with the rapper as part of the sale to identify brands to be acquired or developed.

Dhal Puri Ingredients 1/4 pt split peas 2 cloves garlic 1 hot red pepper 1/4 tsp ground geerah 1 lb flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1 tsp ghee 1/2 pt cooking oil Method 1 Boil peas with some salt. Do not allow to get tender. Drain and cool.

Grind peas with garlic and pepper. Mix with geerah.

2 Sieve flour and remove a third for spreading and kneading.

3 Add baking powder, salt and half teaspoon ghee, and mix.

4 Add 1/2 pt water and mix to a dough. Knead dough for a short time, then leave to stand for 5 minutes.

5 Divide dough into 6 pieces and spread each to a circle of 1 1/2-2 inches in diameter. Rub with a mixture of the remaining ghee and oil. Fill with a rounded tablespoon of ground peas and seal.

6 Dust in flour and leave to soak for 5 minutes.

7 Heat tawah, roll out pieces and place on tawah.

8 Turn and glaze with oil and ghee mixture.

Turn again and allow to cook on both sides. Puri should swell.

9 Remove and keep warm. Serve with bounjal duck.

Makes 6-8