Guyana Chronicle PepperPot 08-05-2018

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Up the ante on Reparations â–ş Page

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Life in TapakumaIV

Emancipation Day 2018

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This pretty lady was one of the hundreds of persons who turned out at the National Park on August 1 decked in African wear for the Emancipation Celebrations. (Photo by Vishani Ragobeer)

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

The ‘travelling grandmother’ How one woman’s childhood turned her into a ‘travelling adult’

By Telesha Ramnarine

York at age 16 and started going to school.

“I learned to properly read and write when I was 19 years old.”

INGRID Goodman never had the opportunity to attend school as a child.

THE TRAVELLING She grew up with a ADULT grandmother who But Goodman’s believed that once upbringing affected people were educather life more than she ed, they would leave realised. As an adult, Guyana and never she began a cycle of return. She wanted to moving from one place keep her grandchilto the next. “A lot of dren with her, having times, what we end up lost one of her own being in life is what we With her daughters Sherena and Shauné daughters in death experienced in childand seeing two more hood,” she says. move abroad.

She never liked New York, so she moved to Colorado “I had a travelling grandmother,” Goodman recounted with an aunt and stayed there for six years. “I then migrated during an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine. ‘Travel- to Zimbabwe and lived another few years there. I got restless ling’ in the sense that whenever they moved to a new village and came back to California and started to pursue a first degree and people would find out that the children were not going to in Business. That took five years with a family in between. school, she would pack up the family once again and move We moved to Botswana then came back to America and we to another location. had stopped and spent a year in England with relatives while At the time, Goodman’s grandmother, Maude Weeks, now my husband was working. Back to California, I started workdeceased, was caring for four grandchildren. “It was total fun. ing and then decided to pursue a Master’s Degree in Social Her father was J.W. Weeks who owned the old soap factory Work,” she said. on D’Urban Street. It was in my adult life I figured out she Goodman had been working in a homeless centre and often probably thought ‘[because of] this thing called education, I met social workers. She observed that their methods and ways am going to be left alone.’” of dealing with persons were less than impressive and thought Mrs Weeks somehow believed that education kept the only way she could make a difference was to get involved Guyanese out of Guyana. “When people migrated to get an in social work herself. education, they didn’t return to Guyana. So, she felt that the Goodman, by this time a mother of four, went to Florida grandchildren she was left with, if she didn’t send them to to assist a relative with her mental health facility and evenschool, they wouldn’t grow up and migrate. It wasn’t that we tually moved again to Grenada where she would spend the were poor; we were well kept. But because of this belief she next five years. had, whenever people questioned her about our schooling, she would up and move someplace else.”

ASSIGNMENT GUYANA As a result, Goodman and her cousins lived in many differIn 2009, she decided to make a trip to Guyana after more ent places across Guyana including the East Coast Demerara, than 30 years to buy materials for a craft shop she had in Corentyne and Vreed-en-Hoop.

Grenada. “What I saw in 48 hours I had not seen in my life!

But Goodman, for one, didn’t mind the moving. “I had a People were yelling, screaming at each other. I said to myself good time. Whatever village we went to; maybe we would the creator prepared me for ‘assignment Guyana.’” stay three months, six months, up to a year. We weren’t Goodman made a decision to return home and first started limited. We went out and played, socialised. Even though a programme of counselling so she could get a feel of what the formal education wasn’t there, we were educated about some of the issues were. “I started doing research. I had to our environment; ethics, values, all that was intact. And, our learn how to be a Guyanese all over again.” needs were met.”

Goodman then started an advanced mental health course Mrs Weeks’ plan didn’t exactly work out because the and started training with the Child Care and Protection Agenkids’ parents eventually made arrangements for them to cy. In 2014, she said she saw the need to open a homeless move abroad to live with them. Goodman ended up in New shelter called Women’s Refuge Guyana located at Lot 28

Goodman and staff of the Women’s Refuge Guyana shelter

Ingrid Goodman

Section ‘C’ Enterprise, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

“What I didn’t see in Guyana was a shelter that housed both the mother and children. I thought instead of separating the mother and child, let us have a programme to look at the root causes of abuse, neglect and abandonment while keeping the family together.”

The mission of this non-governmental organisation is, “To influence behavioural change through self-awareness from the impact of abuse, neglect and/or abandonment throughout Guyana.”

The organisation aims to break the cycle of second and third generation abuse of children by female single parents through education, training and sustainable employment by reducing the number of vulnerable children lingering in state institutions.

It caters for individual, family, couple and group therapy; school intervention; employer intervention; community intervention; suicide/homicide prevention; entrepreneurial skills training; small business management; professional development training; and advanced mental health training.

One of the biggest challenges, Goodman said, is lack of resources. “Food continues to be one of our biggest challenges. Food for the Poor was on board since we launched but we need more support.” She is also grateful for support from EPIC Guyana, Mattai Supermarket, West Field Prep School and Juice Power.

Goodman believes she has passed the stage of moving from one place to the next and hence has decided to settle in Guyana. As proof she is now settled, she referred to the fact that although her longest stay in a country was up to six years, it has now been nine years since she has remained in Guyana.

Goodman spending time with her grandson at his school

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

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‘Guyanese need to become part of a healing process’ The significance of the International Decade for People of African Descent instead of 15 African groups doing different things so it’s been more coordinated.”

UNDERSTANDING EMANCIPATION More still needs to be done to develop Emancipation in Guyana further, however. As explained in a previous interview in the Pepperpot Magazine on July 29, Phillips said, “The nation itself does not understand what Emancipation means.” He added, “The nation doesn’t understand that it was because of Emancipation [that] we have six peoples here.” After Emancipation, the system of Indentureship led to the East Indian, Chinese and Portuguese arriving in

those benefits now manifest today in the economy where, for example, shipping, airlines, ecotourism, all these things are monopolised.”

As Guyana progresses through and beyond this International Decade, information and education will play a key role especially when it comes to reparations. “Guyana has some difficulty with reparations because we do not know our history,” stated Phillips. “Most people don’t even recognise that the Amerindian Act is an act of reparatory justice but, in law, that’s what it is.” In a similar manner, he said, Africans have the ideological belief that reparations constitute justice and that it is necessary.

Mr. Eric Phillips

By Gibron Rahim EACH year, on August 1, we remember the African ancestors, the suffering they endured under an unimaginably brutal system and their struggle for freedom that culminated in the abolition of slavery. While it is important to celebrate emancipation, it is equally important to remember that the struggle continues.

In an interview with the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) Executive Mr. Eric Phillips, he shared some insight on the significance of Emancipation in the context of the United Nations (UN) declaring the period from 2015 to 2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent. He related to the Pepperpot Magazine that the decade is very significant because it came about as a result of the Durban Conference which acknowledged slavery as a crime against humanity.

The purpose of the decade, Phillips noted, is to allow governments around the world to meet their obligations and ensure that all the issues facing people of African descent are addressed. “Guyana is a signatory and so we have an International Decade Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) that’s funded through subvention,” he explained. Phillips noted that the First and Second International Decades of the World’s Indigenous Peoples were observed prior to the International Decade for People of African Descent. Phillips noted that it was only after the Second International Decade that indigenous peoples began to see any significant benefits.

“It’s a process,” he affirmed.

THE GOALS There are multiple goals, as identified by the CCM, for Guyanese of African descent throughout this decade and beyond. “The most significant is, of course, economic security,” said Phillips. They also include cultural rehabilitation as well as education, employment and political security. “There are many groups working on different parts of these issues, or different issues, associated with this,” he explained. The groups include ACDA which deals with issues related to culture and holidays and observances such as Emancipation, African Holocaust and Kwanzaa. The Africa Business Roundtable (ABR) is dealing with the economic aspect while the International Decade Secretariat is addressing employment, among other issues. “The goals will be linked to the Decade,” Phillips related. “There is a plan to deal with each of the five areas that are highlighted in the UN resolution.”

In Guyana, Emancipation is celebrated through regional events. Phillips related that the main event is the Emancipation Festival that is annually hosted by ACDA. He noted, however, that there are almost 70 groups involved in organising Emancipation activities countrywide. “What the government has done is decentralise Emancipation activities,” he said. “For example, in Berbice on August 1, there [was] an event where all the African groups [came]together,

(Photo credit: UN.org)

Guyana. “People also don’t understand why Emancipation happened, so it’s more of an educational process that needs to happen.”

THE ROLE OF REPARATIONS Reparations will play in role in Guyana’s achieving its goals for the International Decade for People of African Descent. “The theme of the International Decade is ‘People of African descent: recognition, justice and development’,” Phillips noted. “That’s also the theme of reparations – recognizing that there was a crime, reparatory justice and using the proceeds of that justice for development.”

Phillips explained that the plan is to ask that the government pass an ancestral rights bill in a similar vein to the 2006 Amerindian Act, which he noted as a reparatory justice act.

“Were that act to be passed, there’ll be reparations in terms of land and in terms of a fund, similar to what indigenous people have,” he stated. “If that is achieved then a perpetual trust will be established.” That perpetual trust will make the proceeds of reparations available to any Guyanese of African descent, including those of mixed ancestry. “That will go a far way in helping to bridge the inequality gap that exists,” related Phillips. “The gap is significant.”

As an example, Phillips related that there are approximately 3,000 Guyanese of Portuguese descent as of the most recent census. He noted that they collectively own more assets in the private sector than all Afro-Guyanese combined. “They were advantaged during slavery,” Phillips explained. “They were given licences in African villages after Emancipation when Africans couldn’t have licences for their own villages.” The position of monopoly in business and commerce was created after Emancipation by the colonial government he said. “During colonialism, because of racism many benefits were given,” said Phillips, “and

Phillips pointed out that there are two ways of looking at reparations. “There’s the ‘hardware’ part of it and the ‘software’ part of it,” he said. According to Phillips, the ‘hardware’ part refers to the mental aspects of reparations where, for instance, people of African descent still want to change their skin colour or people still believe that white is better.

“There’s a lot of psychological repair that has to happen and that’s the software, through education and exposure,” he related. Phillips particularly emphasised the importance of education. “Because history is not taught in our schools, there’s a lot of distortion of our history and politics that has been very damaging to Guyana,” he noted. “That created a lot of suspicion and racism.” Physical reparations are more concrete in terms of economics.

Guyana will be among the countries that will be seeking reparations from Europe. “All Guyanese will benefit from that,” said Phillips. “All Guyanese will also benefit from reparations from the Government of Guyana to African Guyanese because whatever is provided will be replicated throughout the economy.” He pointed out that there will also be greater social cohesion and inclusion. “Part of the issue with social cohesion is that most of the groups that need to cohere are themselves not cohesive,” noted Phillips.

One of the purposes of the International Decade is to help bring about internal cohesion among various African groups according to Phillips. “I think in the interest of Guyana itself, most Guyanese need to become part of a healing process,” he stated. That healing process, he said, starts with constitutional reform where everybody starts to feel that they are equal and where we have more respect for each other. “And that comes through history so until we have history taught in schools Guyanese will always feel disassociated from the movement, yet it’s an integral part of us becoming a nation.”

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Life in Tapakuma An undiscovered gem

The beautiful village of Tapakuma/St Densy

By Indrawattie Natram WAKING up to the symphony of chirping birds, buzzing bees and splashing waves from the nearby black water canal is a norm for those living in the indigenous community of St Densy/Tapakuma in Region Two. This community can be accessed by boat or by a rough trail from the Anna Re-

The black water beach that is usually filled with youngsters in the evening

Tapakuma/St Densy

gina public road. It takes approximately 45 minutes with a vehicle to enter this beautiful sun-kissed community.

Travelling through the same road that leads to the Lake Mainstay resort, one would notice the giant trees that surround the area. About 20 minutes along the road, you will come across a sign that reads, “This way to Tapakuma”, which signals the beginning of an unforgettable trip.

The ride is not for the faint at heart and is much like the ride you would experience on the speedboat, if you are coming across the rough waters on the Essequibo River from the City of

Georgetown. But if you are a nature lover then most of your time will be spent zooming in on the beautiful flora and fauna that line every inch of your journey. The magnificent scenery of forest, sand and black water will serenade your vision, encouraging you to explore more.

Welcoming you to the community is a ‘kissing bridge’ and, on many occasions, some of the village boys that are usually seen fishing for “Wabri”- a type of fish that lives in the savannah.

The community, which will soon be included under the Region’s Tri-lake experience tourism package, is known for its cassava bis-

cuits, cassava bread, bird watching and animal spotting opportunities, as well as the Tapakuma Lake and the Paray Creek waterfall.

According to the toshao of the community, Aubry Fredericks, the community in two months’ time will be opening its guest house to accommodate more visitors. He said that the area has many tourist hotspots and as a toshao, it is his vision to develop the area making it more attractive for tourism.

Currently, the area has a lake, but beach access is a challenge.

However, visitors can fish, enjoy bird watching and even plunge in the natural therapeutic black water, which is a popular component of the ‘Guyanese experience’, he said.

The toshao, is however hoping that the hilltop road leading to his community will be fixed to allow easier access to the area. He said that the road is creating challenges and, thereby, hindering tourism. He also informed the Pepperpot Magazine that the regional administration will be spending some $11 million to rehabilitate/upgrade the hilltop road which will open countless opportunities for 400 residents in the community.

According to 73-year-old Charles Fredericks, life in Tapakuma is a modest one. The man said that he grew up in the community and he appreciates living there. He is into farming but noted that the village economy is declining

A villager with his Wabri catch

due to the lack of wood species.

Another resident, Dona Roberts said it is her desire to see the community develop into one that thrives on tourism since the lumber business is becoming unprofitable. Roberts said that the women in the rural community are eager to venture into the cottage industry, but finances are limited.

“Many of the women in this community are unemployed. I would like if we can do something, so we can earn,” Roberts said.

Another female Loren Roberts said that the cassava processing factory in the community is providing employment for the community but at the moment, finding a suitable market, as well as packaging, is a major challenge.

She said that proper packaging is required for the cassava bread and biscuits in an effort for it to remain competitive on the market. Apart from that she enjoys living in the community explaining its peaceful and close to nature.

“We are at peace here, close to nature.

We wake up, do our chores then in the evening we go catch fish and then take a dip in the black water canal. We enjoy it in here and we will be happy if others want to come experience that,” Roberts said.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Up the ante on

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REPARATIONS Moving along the path to reconciliation, truth and justice

President David Granger viewing the exhibits on display on the sideline of the Heads of Government Meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica in the presence of Kerry Ann Watson – a curator attached to the National Museums West

By Svetlana Marshall THOUGH it was not listed on the agenda, Reparations became a subject for discussion on the sideline of 39TH Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Montego Bay. The National Museums of Jamaica – a division of the Institute of Jamaica, and Jamaica’s National Council on Reparation had seized the opportunity to mount an exhibition highlighting the reparation movement and implements used to torture slaves.

Steven Golding, the President of the Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and Chairman of the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica, though acknowledging the move to establish a Caribbean Reparations Commission, said it is time for the region to up the ante.

The commission, created by CARICOM, is expected to establish the moral, ethical and legal case for the payment of reparations by the governments of all the former colonial powers and the relevant institutions of those countries, to the nations and people of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for the

This tweet which was made by the British Treasury in February. The post was subsequently removed

Crimes against Humanity of Native Genocide, the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and a racialised system of chattel slavery. A 10-point Action Plan has been developed to guide the

President of the Universal Negro Improvement Association Steven Golding in discussion with President David Granger and President of Suriname Desire Bouterse about the reparation movement. Also in photo is Professor Verene Shepherd Chair of the National Council on Reparation

Director of the National Museums Jamaica, Dr. Jonathan Greenland

path to reconciliation, truth, and justice for the victims of slavery and their descendants.

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Miss Earth Guyana – Fire

IX Anita Baker, Miss Earth Guyana – Fire

Aims to ignite the hearts of underprivileged children in Guyana

By Gabriella Chapman TWENTY-ONE-YEAR old Anita Baker was recently crowned Miss Earth Guyana Fire and has definitely proven herself to be a young woman of great substance, who overcame many challenges and is focused on making her future and the future of many other less fortunate young people, as bright and vibrant as it ought to be.

Anita is a computer technician, professional model and cosmetologist, born to a nuclear family of which she is the seventh of 25 siblings.

Her passion is to create beauty and to exhibit love and care in every possible way in the lives of children because their smiles bring joy to her life. Realising this at a very young age, Anita fed her passion by being a loving and caring sister to all her siblings, putting smiles on their faces in whatever way she can, and that kept her happy and kept her going.

When asked about her inspiration, the beauty said “Nature inspires me, simply because it has characteristics of a child. It’s simple, but its worth is immeasurable and if you treat it right, its produce is pleasing and beautiful. I seize every opportunity I get to play with babies and children in my neighbourhood,” she said. “I’m even the godmother of three and I contribute to their lives in whatever way I can, because as clichéd as it sounds, I believe the children are the future and I wish to have nothing but a bright and beautiful future.”

She further shared that when she was younger, she had three main goals/aspirations. The first was to become a forensic investigator; the second, to become a model so that she can represent Guyana and share her story and impact lives through pageantry; and the third, to become the owner of a beauty salon.

THE BEGINNING OF HER MODELLING CAREER In 2014 she started her modelling career. After a few months, she was approached by Traits Model ◄◄◄ From page V

Golding, who had used every opportunity to interact with the Heads of Government and regional leaders, told the Pepperpot Magazine that in recent months some interesting facts about slavery and the abolition of slavery were revealed.

REVELATIONS “The windrush situation is one, but as well as the fact that the British Treasury had tweeted out some months ago, it was just in 2015 that they had finally paid off the debt that they had created when they borrowed millions in cash to repay the former slave owners, the people who were forced in emancipation to free the enslaved Africans,” Stephen pointed out.

It was only in 2015, the British Government had cleared a debt created to “compensate” wealthy slave owners. In 1833, the

Management to audition with the company but was not accepted as an official model. However, that did not dampen the fire in her soul so she continued modelling until a friend led her to Storm Talent Agency, where she auditioned with a little more knowledge and experience and was accepted on the spot.

Since then, Anita has competed in two pageants; Miss Guyana Independence Culture in 2016, capturing Second Runner-up and Miss Earth Guyana 2018, capturing Miss Earth Guyana - Fire title.

To go after the Forensic Investigator goal she obtained a Diploma in computer studies in 2015 but realised that wasn’t the path she wanted to go.

Between 2016 and 2017, Anita did many courses qualifying her with different cosmetology skills and is now a cosmetologist by profession and is in the process of constructing a salon.

“Growing up there are so many dreams and goals you set for yourself. And, as you grow you get wiser and the list gets longer. But what you must know is, that it is better to try and fail than fail to try. I’m still very young and I have intentions achieving all my goals regardless of whatever setbacks may come my way. I believe a person is limitless and life’s hurdles are inevitable but definitely not unbreakable,” she said.

At the recently concluded Miss Earth Guyana pageant, her Environmental Beautification project won the ‘Beauties for a Cause’ segment. The project is aimed at creating community pride through enhancement programmes in depressed communities, and to ensure that its environs are equipped with a child-friendly recreational facility. In addition, her love for children has caused her to also commit to contributing hampers and motivational talks to the lives of underprivileged children in every reachable community.

The project is in its foundation stage, but Anita has high hopes of changing the lives of children and young people and transforming Guyana as a whole.

British Treasury pledged £20 million in order to reimburse the owners of slaves when slavery was abolished in Britain. It was just this year, that the British Treasury disclosed that it had taken British tax payers over 182 years to clear the debt.

“They were given compensation, so I mean that shows that it wasn’t a matter of humanity why Africans were freed, and what made it worse [is that] all the generation of African descendants had moved to Britain and were paying taxes, had the burden of that payment shifted on them up until 2015,” the UNIA Chairman said as he became enraged about the situation.

INFURIATING He added: “Now this is something that should infuriate us as a people. Not only are you denying us our liberty, denying us our humanity but you are forcing the descendants of these enslaved Africans

to pay for the freedom of their ancestor.

We feel this time is the perfect time for CARICOM now to ramp up the reparations movement, to get serious with their approach to reparations whether through legal motion; whether through social action, we have to work together as a region.”

Exhibits of implements used to torture Africans slaves formed a major part of the exhibition. “The primary form of resistance was running away; literally running and the secondary form of resistance would be speaking the truth. A lot of our implements are about restricting people’s movement and stopping them from speaking,” Director of the National Museums Jamaica, Dr. Jonathan Greenland summarised during a walkthrough of the exhibition.

Pointing to the first exhibit, Dr. Greenland said the tongue restraint or metal helmets were usually “locked” on a slave’s

face to prevent them from speaking. This, he said, was done in full view of the other slaves to set an example.

A bell, from a ship called HMS African Queen, was also among the exhibits.

During the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, ships were used to transport Africans to the Caribbean, and the bell was used to indicate the time.

A branding iron, which was used for identification purposes, shackles or manacles and an Emancipation coin, which was minted to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the abolition of the Transatlantic Trafficking in Africans, were among items on display.

President David Granger, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Keith Rowley and CARICOM Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, were among the regional leaders that viewed the exhibits.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Multi-talented Denyse

From fashion to herbs and back

Denyse Gomes France, Proprietor of D’s Fashion and Fabric Designs and D’s Body Therapy

Samples of soaps and herbal oil products by D’s Body Therapy

and then we find out later about the dangers and risks to which we are exposed, but by then perhaps it is multi-talented too late,” Denyse said. She said she was always interested in finding out more about these products and their side effects and in the process gleaned very useful knowledge. Thereafter, she bowed out of the profession and began thinking of manufacturing products that would bring relief to persons having suffered chemical related conditions, as well as others that would prevent them altogether.

So far, Denyse has produced nine different types of herbal and organic hand-made soaps, in addition to body

oils and lotions; herbal hair foods and lip balm. She has made her mark, and is now specialised in producing a variety of soaps with beauty and health-promoting properties and has an idea of other products that have hazardous effects. Her soaps, she assures, when used will give you that fresh, cool and ultra-vibrant feeling.

These products are both effective and affordable, with prices ranging between $300 plus and $1,000 the proprietor says.

Denyse also rears honey-bees and so has ready supplies of honey from her facility along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. In addition, she processes and has a variety of oils such as Sun Flower Oil; Extra Virgin Coconut oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil for falling hair and crab-oil for skin blemishes.

African Prints and African fashions

By Shirley Thomas LOOKING for the kind of beauty stimulation that guarantees you illustrious hair and gives your face a gorgeous shine? Or maybe you’re in search of fascinating African wraps, dashiki or headwear to put you at your best for the Emancipation Season.

Then your best bet would be to meet Denyse Gomes France, Proprietor of D’s Body Therapy and D’s Fashion and Fabric Design. And what’s more? Depending on the time factor, you just might be motivated to select the items there and “Do It Yourself”.

Image transformation or enhancing women’s appearance is what D’s Fashion and Body Therapy is all about, and she does it with pride, precision and detail.

One of the amazing sides of this multi-talented young entrepreneur is her persistent involvement in fashion.

Denyse is a fashion designer and seamstress and is into dressmaking and custom tailored working suits for ladies, as well as men. She also sews bridal outfits and sews and sells both contemporary fashion and cultural wear such as African attire, for which there is great demand currently.

Particularly at this time of the celebration of African Emancipation and the 125th Anniversary of the African Cultural Development Association (ACDA), Denyse has a variety of African dresses and head wraps to meet your tastes and which are going pretty fast at this time.

For the last eight years, she has been in the herbal and body therapy manufacturing business but has never lost interest in fashion and design which she earlier ventured into, and has been doing well so far. Additionally, she has also proved to be an inspiration to other young women who are beginning to follow suit.

And for her part, she has personally gained inspiration to venture into the herbal health soaps, following a problem she had with acne. At that time she was a cosmetologist and learned of the side effects of using a lot of chemicals such as relaxers, and what happens when they come into contact with the face.

A WORD OF CAUTION “Many times we put things on our body and never stop to consider the effects; how it could affect us internally,

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A strong leader Guyanese woman eyes position at New York State Assembly

By Indrawattie Natram UNITED STATESBASED Guyanese Lalita Etwaroo is aspiring to take up leadership responsibilities in the coming months as she prepares to challenge Democratic Clyde Vanel for a New York State Assembly Legislative seat. Twentysix-year-old Etwaroo is a Republican candiTwenty-six-year-old Lalita date for the NY State Etwaroo aka Leesia is a Assembly in the 33rd Republican candidate for Etwaroo meeting with her District which covers the NY State Assembly in Republican supporters the neighbourhood of the 33rd District Cambria Heights, St Albans, Hollis, Queens Village, Bellerose and parts of the Floral Park in Queens.

Entering the elections under the slogan “Don’t just speak about change, make the change”, Etwaroo intends to use her platform to transform the various areas should she win the coveted seat.

During an interview with Pepperpot Magazine on what actually inspired her into politics, Etwaroo, known as Leesia by friends and family, said that former Guyana President and First Lady, Janet Jagan was instrumental in this regard.

She said as she journeyed to further her studies in the USA in Political Science her passion intensified.

“In Guyana, [the late President and First Lady] Janet [Jagan] inspired me simply because she was a woman who fought the struggles for other women,” Leesia explained.

Born to Guyanese parents, Dhaneshwar Etwaroo and Bhagmattie Persaud, Leesia left the shores of Guyana at the age of 11.

She still has fond childhood memories of Guyana Etwaroo with her supporters at a recent meeting and vividly remembers how Guyanese would celEtwaroo when she was discovered that there was a lack of transparency for constituents. She said one thing she a child in Guyana ebrate different festivals and holidays. dislikes is when political figures push their own personal agenda without thinking about She graduated from Bayside High School in 2009, what effects it would have on their district. Should she be elected she said she will ensure then after joining John Jay College, she successfully grad- that homes are built for the homeless and that people are represented at the grassroots level. uated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Criminology and Political Science in 2013. She also attained a Master’s in Public Administration with concentrations in Human Resources and HER POLITICAL LIFE Operations Management in 2016 from John Jay College.

“I wanted to become more involved in my district, meet constituents, find out what Although she spent 15 years studying, she opted to be a businesswoman for her busi- worried people in our district and just to get a better understanding of where I have been ness Edible Arrangements where she can be her own boss and work at her own pace but living,” Etwaroo said. then politics caught her attention. “My journey in politics started to materialise when I She then became a member of the Queens Village Republican Club where she met interned at the New York State Assembly in 2012. I worked alongside then assemblyman several influential individuals working for the district. She also used her business to conRobert J Castelli. We worked closely introducing legislation that would benefit constitunect with the Guyanese community in the USA, and started supporting cultural events ents in the 89th Assembly District. During this time, I got to see how bills are researched, and local concerts through Edible Arrangements. It is her intention to keep the Guyanese written, perfected, debated, rejected and perfected again in order to be passed onto the culture and traditions alive even as she is living abroad.

Senate. There, I learned that with technique and determination any member was able to Her ultimate goal is to take the win for Assembly District 33 and she is confident represent their district to their full capacity,” Leesia told the Pepperpot Magazine.

Her life started to take a turn when she spent some time in Albany and there she that with the support of Guyanese living abroad she can make it happen.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

A look at Emancipation Day 2018

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ON August 1, Guyana joined with many other Caribbean countries to celebrate Emancipation Day. It was on that day, 180 years ago, the system of enslavement of the Africans in the Caribbean had finally come to an end.

In Guyana, Emancipation activities are a celebration of the African culture and heritage. It is a time where Afro-Guyanese all across Guyana can immerse themselves in their culture and share it holistically with the rest of the population. The African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) is among several other African groups in Guyana which have been instrumental in promoting this culture and sharing it among all Guyanese.

Here are some scenes from ACDA’s Emancipation Day celebrations held at the National Park. (Photos by Vishani Ragobeer)

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What you need to know about coconuts (Part Two) HARVEST METHODS THE fruit from shorter growing coconut trees may be harvested from the ground using a machete or knife to cut the stem just above the shoulder of the fruit. The fruit may also be twisted or snapped off the tree by hand. Fruit borne on mature tall trees may be harvested with the aid of a ladder or

climbing device, by skilled climbers or by using a sharp blade attached to a long pole.

The coconuts are generally left to drop to the ground and collected after the entire tree has been harvested. If the majority of fruit on an entire bunch is ready for harvest, the coconuts can be harvested as a unit by severing the stem just above the first fruit in the cluster.

PREPARATION FOR MARKET The coconuts should be gathered from the field soon after harvest and taken to a shaded collection site. Fruit which are unmarketable due to excessive insect damage, decay, or undesirably small fruit are discarded. The remaining fruit should be prepared for market by cleaning/ de-husking, sorting, and packing.

CLEANING/DE-HUSKING The surface of water coconuts should be cleaned with a damp cloth or cotton gloves to remove excess dirt, dust, or undesirable stains.

Water coconuts marketed domestically are typically not de-husked. However, most coconuts intended for export must be de-husked to reduce the transport weight and volume.

Coconuts should be dried for several days at ambient temperature before de-husking by hand. The outer coloured skin (exocarp), plus the fibrous inner husk (mesocarp) are stripped away by striking the coconut against a sharp-pointed metal stake mounted on a platform. A few impaling strokes loosen the husk, making it easier to be removed. A machete can also be used to initiate the de-husking process.

De-husked coconuts are oval to round in shape with the eyes showing. To prevent browning, the de-husked coconuts can be dipped in a one per cent to three per cent of sodium metabisulfite solution for two to five minutes. This treatment prevents browning for a period of five to seven days. A fungicide may be included in the sodium meta-bisulfite solution to inhibit the growth of surface mould. The discarded husks can be placed several layers deep over the de-husked coconuts to help reduce desiccation.

GRADING Water coconuts intended for export should be graded according to size, uniformity of shape, and degree of skin blemishes if they are not de-husked. The fruit should be categorised into small, medium, and large sizes. The fruit should be uniform in shape and free of noticeable blemishes or skin damage from insects, diseases, or physical injury.

Surface colour should be uniform and

characteristic of the cultivar. The preferred skin colour of none de-husked water coconuts in the export market is green. De-husked coconuts should be free of stress cracks and not have deeply sunken eyes. The fruit should not have any protruding germination tubes, leakage of water around the eyes, or surface mould. When shaken, the fruit should have a sloshing sound, indicating the presence of water in the coconut. Any fruit that does not have a sloshing sound when shaken should not be packed for market. The most common size for exported de-husked coconuts is between 750 gm to 850 gm (1.7 lb to 1.9 lb), although the acceptable sizes typically range from 600 gm to I kg (1.3 lb to 2.21b).

WAXING The market life of water coconuts can be extended by waxing the fruit with paraffin.

Waxing significantly reduces weight loss and is also very effective in reducing stress cracking of de-husked coconuts during transport. The fruit are waxed by rapidly dipping them in a tank of melted paraffin.

PACKING Coconuts are packed in various types of containers, depending on the market destination. Domestically marketed water coconuts may be sold in bulk or packed in large synthetic or mesh sacks of known fruit count per sack. If the coconuts are sold in bulk, the fruit are usually loaded onto the bed of a large truck and transported to the destination market. Considerable manual labour is required to load and unload the bed of a truck with loose coconuts. In large-scale operations, the loading process is made more efficient by packing the fruit in large wooden bins on top of pallets. A hand jack or fork-lift can be used to move the bins onto the bed of the truck.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

XV

The power of words WITHIN every one of my columns, classes, speeches and outreaches, I like to think that there is an unspoken message of the importance of words; how they can both uplift and derail us. However, I was thinking that today may be a good day to openly reiterate this message.

It’s not a topic that people love to talk about because we are all guilty of it at one point or another; we say unkind things that we know would have a negative impact on others.

Sometimes it’s intentional while other times it’s in the heat of the moment.

Either way, the impression is the same.

The repercussions of simple words are unparalleled. We don’t think of it often as it comes so naturally to us but our words are the most powerful thing. Words can be weapons that carry enormous weight and impacts everyone around us. Words can give people the courage to overcome obstacles or the feeling of hopelessness to give up.

I believe the saying “sticks and stones may break my bones but words never hurt” is the most unreasonable statement ever invented. In time, physical wounds heal and may even be forgotten. The same cannot be said for cruel and unkind words. These replay in our minds for decades to come and scar us for life. They create low self -esteem and self- confidence, high anxiety and stress levels, self- hatred, aggressive behaviour, depressive symptoms and even suicidal thoughts.

Unfortunately, we tend to believe the negative before the positive. We internalise these opinions and begin to see ourselves through the eyes of others.

I want to make two things clear. I love Guyana. I grew up here and this is my home.

It is also home to the nicest people I have ever met. However, I have been fortunate enough to live in two other continents for long periods of time and I can say with full confidence, that Guyanese treat each other with such disrespect and say the most hateful things when upset. It’s actually not a normal thing around the world. Of course, abuse happens everywhere and there is cruelty far worse globally- but in my personal experience- hell hath no fury like a Guyanese scorned.

Secondly, this piece is not coming from a judgemental place as I too am guilty of saying cruel words when I’m upset. I’ve lost or

almost lost so many treasured people in my life because of this. Many things could be the reason for this- my environment, the way I was raised or the company I choose to have.

Same goes for many of you. However, who we are, including what we say is ultimately a choice that only we can make. We can choose to motivate and uplift others rather than push them down. It is much easier to jump down from a table to someone else’s level than it is

to pull them up. That action is true strength.

It is also important to remember that cruel words create a vicious cycle for everyone.

Basically, cruelty breeds cruelty. I know that when my day is started with harsh words directed to me, it affects everyone else around me. My patience is thinner than usual, my tone of voice is harsher and I can be downright unapproachable. Sometimes I feel that it’s not exactly my fault- that I was pushed to that point. But wasn’t it my fault? Should I allow others to cause me to upset those I care about? Should any of us?

Some justify it by calling it ‘tough love’ but this method of reinforcement does not minimise problematic behaviour but instead aggravates it.

‘It’s not what we say but how we say it’. I’m torn between loving and hating this saying. Furthermore, using the word hate is harsh, especially in a piece like this so I’m going to use the word dislike instead. Simple acknowledgements and changes like that is how we make the world a better place. As I was saying, I’m torn between this statement as your words do matter overall but I’ve

also been told ‘nice to see you’ in a way that made me feel completely unwelcome and uncared for.

Overall, we can all be better. When we say we can’t, it basically just means we think it is too much effort to actually try. Everyone is capable, granted some with more effort than others, to take the high road. We have at our disposal a power that can change lives, make an ill spirit healthy, inspire success, provide guidance, improve relationships and create a lasting impression of us as kind and worthy people. That power is the power of words. Be the change.

Can you think of a time that you have severely hurt someone with words? Well, that’s okay- I’m sure we all can. Maya Angelou said “You did then what you knew how to do. When you knew better, you did better.” These few words allowed me to forgive myself for all my wrongdoings and to appreciate that I’m not the same person who

said those things. As I have been sayingwords are empowering and Angelou’s and my own have empowered me to make better and more positive life changes in regards to what I think, say and therefore do.

Doing this is not easy- it is an overall life change. Frank Outlaw said it best – ‘“Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your habits, they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.”

The choice is yours. How will our words impact others?

Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!

Suicide Prevention Helpline – 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444 or 600-7896 Do not be afraid to reach out!

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Two weeks in the Spice Isle

By Naomi Marshall SHINY blue beaches; sparkling sand; cocoa-filled atmosphere; bright skies; cool sea breeze; hustling people polite in their approach; proud artefacts, mingling tourists in the streets of St. George; and above all, a deep-rooted history of the island’s people, trials, tribulations and victory.

These are the richest and most memorable things that I have taken away after spending two weeks in the ‘Spice Isle’ of Grenada, as a part of the Marti Expedition Programme exploring the island, volunteering and enjoying the company of 29 other spectacular volunteers from around the world.

Marti students participating in a session of African Drumming

TOURING The first week met us with great excitement for travelling the island and volunteering our time to serving the country. During this last week, we toured the St. George’s University School of Medicine, which is the

oldest private medical school in the Caribbean and was founded by Charles R. Modica on July 23, 1976. It was rated by The Princeton Review as one of the “Best 168 Medical Schools”.

“Walking around the amazing campus

gave the group a unique insight into what life would be like living, working and studying in Grenada. The university is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea giving a serene atmosphere which the S.G.U ambassadors said helped with relaxation, as well as studying,” said volunteer, 18-year-old, Adonia Burke of the United Kingdom.

However, finding out that a university which has a reputation for exceptional medical degrees also had degrees in Sociology,

Children. Upon our arrival, we were filled by the energy given off from the children at the home who were flicking, dancing and playing, which made us even more ecstatic to be there.

“Not even five minutes in we were jumped on, embraced and destroyed by these amazing kids. They took great pleasure in socialising, expressing their future goals and being comforted by us both physically and emotionally,” volunteer from the United Kingdom, Adjoa Ayebi-Kwakye noted. “We were all touched by a child in different ways.”

Coming down to the end of our time at the home, we presented the children with various donations we brought with us to Grenada.

The Queen Elizabeth Home is the oldest children’s home in Grenada which is named after British Queen Elizabeth II. The home supports children of all ages who are orphaned or in need of care and is supported mainly by voluntary contribution.

ADVENTURE As we approached the end of the first week, we were privileged with the opportunity of hiking to the Seven Sisters Waterfall.

Accompanied by a tour guide, we set out on the 45-minute hike through the rainforest to

Marti volunteers educating a citizen of Grenada on vector control

Psychology, Information Technology and Business allowed Marti students to open their mind and recognise the diversity of such a reputable institution, Burke said with much optimism.

Next up was our visit to the Grenada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and animal rescue centre, where we were given a descriptive tour of the shelter.

Founded in 1936, the GSPCA is among the oldest animal shelters in the Caribbean. It is a non-profit volunteer organisation which only employs a full-time kennel worker and an administrative assistant; all other work is dependent on volunteer efforts.

In addition to the tour, we got the opportunity to walk and play with some of the dogs at the shelter. The moment I was handed a ‘poop bag’ I prayed that I would not have to use it and luckily enough, my dog was a good boy. Our time at the shelter certainly changed the way we view “stray dogs”; the way they should be treated and has left a great impact on our lives.

VOLUNTEERING Another life-changing experience was volunteering at the Queen Elizabeth Home for

get to two of the seven falls. On our journey, we passed through a private plantation where we saw cocoa, nutmeg and bananas being cultivated. The sharp pathway down to the fall was like a staircase made of bamboo sticks and rocks. As we approached the falls, we heard the water falling rapidly and felt the moist air on our skins.

Since I can’t swim, I stuck to the shallow parts of the very cold water, however, I made the most of it. The thought of the deep being dangerous demolished when three of my friends stated that they wanted to jump off the 30-foot waterfall. Although my mind felt like exploding, this was something they wanted to do; this was them coming out of their comfort zone, so I supported them. The jumps were not so bad after all and it was worth it since they accomplished their goal. It was time to go and we were then challenged by the steep, slippery hills on our journey out of the rainforest but our determination got us through it all.

FINAL WEEK Our Final week in Grenada found us in Sauteurs, a community in the countryside of Turn to page XVII ►►►

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the island. Here is where we got to see the chocolate making process during a tour of the Diamond Chocolate Factory. The facility is housed in a former rum distillery built by French monks in 1774 and produces the Jouvay brand of chocolate that you’ll see on sale around the island. We also learned that this chocolate factory is also listed among the top 10 best chocolate makers in the world.

In addition, we got to see the Leaper’s Hill which holds much history to its name. It is said that the Amerindians refusing to commit to slavery, took their own lives by jumping off the Leaper’s Hill. It is safe to say that the name speaks for itself.

During our time in Sauteurs we also visited the Hilarion Elderly Home where, in an effort to reduce generation gap, we interacted with the residents of the home by playing games and singing hymns. This was one of the most emotional visits we made. “Learning stands when riches fail,” is a quote said to me by Aunt Lucy, a resident of the home, and it will stay with me forever.

Volunteer from the United Kingdom, Rochelle Wong described her experience at the home as “emotionally draining…It allowed us to connect with the elderly on a deeper level and appreciate that in times of need, a helping hand is always necessary.”

OTHER ACTIVITIES Some of the other awesome activities we took part in was CPR and First Aid training, African drumming, training in the basics of suturing, a tour of the Belmont Estate, Creole Society classes, Health Fair, Vector control training and awareness exercise, beach clean-up, filmmaking training and not forgetting the numerous trips to the lush Grand Anes and Umbrella beaches.

In addition to all the experiences gained, I was blessed with new friends from around the world and who are now my “Famahlee.”

Overall I would describe my two weeks in Grenada as well spent, breathtaking, educational, adventurous, emotional, historic and life-changing as I “lived in the moment.”

Marti Expeditions is an organisation dedicated to immersive, transformational travel and learning experiences.

The organisation provides two to three week-long programmes across the greater Caribbean region. Marti began with a programme in 2014 on the ‘Spice Isle’ of Grenada.

Expeditions are manned by a small group of students aged 1518 years of age and are led by experienced and trained guides.

The student participants get the opportunity to do meaningful community work that helps the local population in ways which the local population deem most beneficial. The students immensely benefit from their time spent outside their comfort zone, challenging their perspectives.

The students, being from varying countries, also have the opportunity to interact with each other in a new environment, making new friends for life. This year, participants branched from, Guyana, Trinidad, the United Kingdom, the United States, Jamaica and Barbados.

The Seven Sisters Waterfall

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The For the Children’s Sake Foundation

Providing a safe haven for vulnerable Linden children and youths

By Vanessa Braithwaite THE For the Children’s Sake Foundation (FCSF) is a Linden-based, non-governmental, non-profit organisation which was founded by Mr. Vernon Todd in June 2002. The organisation which is located at One Mile, Wismar, focuses on youth development and empowerment in various areas. Todd, who was born and educated in Linden, said he recognised that youths in the community encounter various challenges which put them at risk for negative health, educational, and social outcomes.

He noted that it was observed at the time that the number of students completing their primary education was decreasing, while suicide, violence, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases rates were increasing in Linden. Based on his own experiences and from his community engagement work, Todd said he felt that more emphasis should be placed on education and health or his community would not have survived another generation.

As such, he created the FTCSF, in an effort to provide youths with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to improve their

Vernon Todd

quality of life and to empower them to make better decisions which would ultimately lead to positive growth and development. It is on these grounds that the vision statement of the FTCSF was created. Since 2002, in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Region 10, the organisation has been dealing with both health and social issues affecting target group adolescents.

Its priorities include sexual and reproductive health, adolescent pregnancy prevention, prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), substance and tobacco abuse prevention, environmental access to clean water, sanitation, safety, education, Mental health services and prevention of Non-communicable diseases. It currently has several ongoing programmes, including the Child Development Programme, Literacy and Numeracy Programme, a Feeding Programme, Life skills training, Nutritional and a Girl Power Initiative. Todd explained that the organisational functions of the FTCSF are both

social and humanitarian, with focus on both personal and community development. “We function as an educational outlet -we have our library where persons can access information, an internet hub where youths can get assignments completed and do research. Our peer educators core principle is to ensure that health and social information is disseminated through outreaches, satellite tables, health forums, workshops and facilitated sessions,” he explained.

The organisation is sort of a home away from home for its members, where the need for support, socialisation, interaction and other needs for development are provided.

It aims at initiating programmes that are aimed at helping youth, provides HIV testing, youth-friendly services which involve weekly educational sessions on an array of topics to help empower youths and guidesthem through puberty and development, which may contribute to them becoming well-rounded individuals. “A number of initiatives have been introduced to the community during the course of our 16 years of existence. Some of these include our saving adolescents programme, peer education, health clubs, youth seeking answers through a 24-hour programme that allows persons to anonymously call for assistance with their problems, answers to their questions and counselling; sponsor a child programme, a programme aimed at assisting vulnerable groups such as low-income families with food hampers, hygienic packages, and a skill so they can assist themselves in providing for their families. It also includes feeling programmes; Girl Power programme- a newly launched programme targeting our girls with the aim to empower, inspire and Turn to page XIX ►►►

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this reality, to provide them with the information and the choices to craft lifestyles that are positive and that put them on a path to long, healthy and productive lives.

We encourage young people to par-

encourage,” Todd indicated. Additionally, the organisation also initiates back-to-school and toy drives. These are annual programmes designed to ensure that low-income families are adequately prepared for school and that chil- Several of FTCSF peer dren wake up to a toy on educators and youths involved in some of its Christmas Day. and There are also monthly community humanitarian initiatives satellite tables, where strategic areas in and around the region are chosen and youths are educated on health and social issues.

More so, the organisation conducts literacy and numeracy programmes which include a homework club and training in this area for school drop-outs and slow learners. FTCSF is also very devoted to community development and has been involved in a number of community development programmes that include the painting of pedestrian crossings on numerous occasions and clean-up campaigns. “Young people are confronted with many challenges. So many dreams have been ticipate in these programmes. We also shattered by bad choices. But their challenges encourage parents, teachers and other often also come from the social environment stakeholders to participate”, Todd noted. they live in”, Todd related. “The issues of He added that the organisation recognissubstance abuse, early pregnancies, poor es that in our fast-paced society, young eating habits, lack of physical activity, poor people are faced with immense challenges knowledge about their bodies and how their which put them at crossroads in the decibehaviour place them at risk. The Peer Edu- sion-making process. “Most times, these cation programme is our attempt to change decisions are made from peer pressure or

because they just don’t know better. Generally, it is often thought that adolescents are a healthy group. Nevertheless, many adolescents do die prematurely due to accidents, suicide, violence, pregnancy-related complications and other illnesses that are either preventable or treatable. Many more suffer chronic illnesses and disability. In addition, many serious diseases in

XIX adulthood have their roots in adolescents.

For example, tobacco use and poor eating and exercise habits lead to illnesses or premature death later in life. This programme is intended to foster greater development among our young people in our country. I commend the young people who so enthusiastically are involved in these activities”, Todd said.

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Business community supporting Tapakuma girl who excelled at NGSA GUYANA’S top performing National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) student from the hinterland, Anasie Federicks, is receiving overwhelming support from the business community in Guyana as she is preparing to attend the Bishop’s High School in Georgetown.

Anasie, who lives in Tapakuma/St Densy in Region Two, copped the fifth position in the region and was the best performer for the hinterland communities at

the NGSA with 513 marks.

On July 1, the Pepperpot Magazine featured Anasie, who talked about her performance and her struggles under the caption “I had many sleepless nights”. After reading the article, many, including businesses and NGOs came on board and donated several items to the young girl.

The 12-year-old was presented an Acer laptop, a printer with scanner and photocopier, a wireless mouse

Anasie and her father, Marlon Federicks, receiving her gift from Food for the Poor

and a haversack from Classic Auto Spares. Representing the business, Marquis Omar Khan said that Classic Auto Spares was happy to help Anasie with her journey in acquiring a better education. Khan said that the owner of the business read the article and was propelled to help the young lady.

Food for the Poor Inc. (FFTP) also donated a bicycle, stationary and a hamper to Anasie, while the Ministry of Presidency also donated a laptop to aid in her studies.

Anasie during a follow-up interview said, she was grateful to everyone who supported her and promised that she will continue to excel.

“I am happy my parents have decided to send me to the secondary school I passed to go. It is my heart’s desire to

Anasie and her father, Marlon Federicks

attend the school I passed to go to, and I will be venturing to Georgetown to acquire my secondary education,” Federicks said.

She said although she will be far from her home, she will remain focused as it is her dream to become a doctor one day, where she can serve her community faithfully. Federicks is currently attending computer classes at the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI). Her parents, Marlon Federicks and Donnett Edwards have also extended gratitude towards everyone who assisted their daughter with their kind donations.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

EMANCIPATION

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LOOKING BEYOND THE CELEBRATIONS

OVER the last week, we have had a number of commemorative activities to mark the Emancipation of our Guyanese ancestors from plantation slavery on August 1, 1834. Though slavery existed everywhere in the ancient world and in Africa in the 17th and 18th centuries, such slavery was entirely different from plantation slavery. Slavery in the 17th and 18th century Africa was humane when equated with West Indian plantation slavery. Slaves often became part of their owners’ families and were always treated as human beings. And in ancient Greece and Rome, slaves were often the teachers, writers and intellectuals.

In the West Indies, including Guyana, slaves were regarded not as human beings but as property. Their masters regarded them solely as machines to supply labour and they were provided with the minimum of shelter, clothes and food so as to be able to continue surviving to continue to work.

The regime of work was extremely harsh and cruel and slaves were almost all savagely beaten. This surrealistic ambience of the plantation often made the white population, and particularly those who directly dealt with the slaves such as the overseers, into psychopaths and sadists and they practised the most horrible tortures on the slaves.

The slaves fought back against their oppressors in a variety of ways, by both passive resistance and violently. They would skulk from work, pretend to be sick, malinger and carry out quiet sabotage against the plantation. The two most well-known of the violent protests were the Berbice Rebellion of 1763 led by Cuffy and the Demerara Rebellion of the 1820s led by Quamina. Slavery, despite its cruelties and dehumanising oppressions, was never able to destroy the indomitable African spirit which manifested itself with unsuspected creativeness and resilience on Emancipation.

That creativeness was evidenced in many ways: The freedmen were transformed into self-respecting wage- earners who were willing to continue working on the plantations for a livable wage. The planter class could not understand this phenomenon and continued to offer poor wages which resulted in two serious unsuccessful strikes in the 1840s. After these strikes, the freedmen left the plantations for the new villages and for the two towns.

It was this desire of the planter class, never to pay a livable wage which led them to seek indentured labour.

It is, however, in the establishment of the villages (The Village Movement) that the unsuspected creativity of the freedmen was most evident. Groups of freed men and women pooled their savings and

bought abandoned plantations. Their savings came from the poor wages they earned during the apprenticeship period which ended in 1838. They paid for these abandoned estates with small coins which had to be transported by wheelbarrows.

The estates bought were renamed as an indication to their erstwhile masters that a new era had arrived. Among the most well-known of these villages was Queenstown in Essequibo and Buxton and Victoria in Demerara.

In these villages they created a new life for themselves: They constructed houses, built up farms, established village governments and provided community services, as far as they were able and established primary education with the help of the churches, particularly the Anglican.

They were far-sighted enough to realise that education held the key to upward mobility and economic betterment. In the next generation, the villages began to produce first-rate scholars and legendary schoolmasters. The Village Movement was quietly spawning a veritable social and economic revolution.

Emancipation is an event to be celebrated and indeed it has been celebrated countrywide in style with dances, cultural shows, fairs and feasts in the villages and in the towns. But Emancipation is not merely a celebratory event. It is an event that opens the door to vibrant economic and social progress and those on whom the mantle of leadership has fallen must begin to map out ways in which the descendants of the freed men could improve their economic conditions by their own efforts. Such involves the encouragement and support of those who are already engaged in small businesses and encouraging others to enter self-employment constantly imparting the essence of entrepreneurship.

Self-reliance must be the watchword and must be cultivated and the inclination of looking to the State for handouts which were inherited from our socialist indoctrination must be eschewed.

Another facet of Emancipation which needs to be emphasised is that Emancipation is an anniversary and an event which belongs to the whole nation and must be supported and rejoiced in by all. At the moment, Emancipation is portrayed as a purely African Guyanese affair and little effort has been made so far in involving the other segments of the Guyanese population. Ways of involving other segments must be worked out as for example pointing out how intertwined Guyanese history and life are and that all strands of them make a unity. Or to show that indentured immigration was qualitatively the same as slavery and was indeed described by historians as “the new slavery”. This

should help to develop an empathy and understanding of Emancipation among descendants of indentured servants.

Once efforts are made to achieve such solidarity. Emancipation would be commemorated and celebrated with greater gusto and enthusiasm by every

segment and its implication for further social and economic progress becomes easier to achieve. Work in this direction could start immediately for next year’s commemoration. The Guyana Consumers Association would be willing to assist in such an effort.

folklore

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‘PLAY, PLAY DOES BRING NAY, NAY’ THE laughter and screams of the children rang sharply through the night as they ran and frolicked.

The yard was big with enough room for chasing and tagging games like Hide and Seek, ‘Ketcher’ or Last Lick. Soon they grew bored with this and decided to take their games abroad. Scaling the fence they ran up and down in the nearby alley.

In the quiet almost quaint village of Solitude, folks worked hard, drank hard and had a good relationship with each other. The only thing odd about the village was their belief in the supernatural.

Time and time again, stories emerged about strange and bizarre incidents which occurred in the community.

There were even recent sightings of different beings like Old Higue and Moon Gazer.

As they played, the children ventured deeper and deeper into the dark alleyway. They were playing Hide

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

By Neil Primus

and Seek. One person stayed from a distance turning their back on the others. The players then had 30 seconds to conceal themselves before the seeker began searching for them.

The first person that was caught would become the next seeker. The game was punctuated by loud shots and shrieking laughter.

It was while seeking a dark place to hide that little Matthew stepped on the Old Dutch Bottle. Stooping, he scooped it up and looked at it with curiosity. It was too dark to see it properly so he headed for the light forgetting about the game for a moment. His reminder came with a sharp thump in the back!

Crack!

“A ketch yo!”

The old bottle fell from his hand and smashed to bits on the concrete pavement.

From all around them came a harsh guttural voice.

“AT LAST! FREE! FREE! HA! HA! HA! HA!” Then a violent breeze swept through the alley bringing with it a chilling wind. In terror, the children fled for the safety of indoors.

Two nights later all was forgotten. The kids were again racing around in the alley. This time they were playing ‘Ketcher’. In this game, one child chased after the others trying to catch him/her in order that they would now become the catcher. It was great fun and the children horsed around completely forgetting what had transpired two nights ago. They soon got a rude reminder.

A group of them were racing to outrun the catcher when they ran into the strangest person they had ever seen.

He was shorter than them all and had the largest head on the planet. He was ugly with matted, wild looking hair.

His teeth flashed wickedly and his short stout hands had nails that grew more than six inches long. They were essentially claws and had dark matter on the tips as if they were used to tearing flesh from bones. His large eyes were yellowish red and flashed with mischief. From deep in his throat, a low howl arose. It kept getting louder and louder until the ears of the children were under threat. As if awakening from a trance, they fled the dark alley together screaming and bawling. Matthew was a distant first.

Uncle David was relaxing in his favourite hammock.

His preferred mode of relaxation was always horizontal.

He fell into a peaceful sleep and dreamt of performing on stage. His performance was so well appreciated that the ladies were screaming for more. They surged towards him grabbing and shaking, their screams testimony to his brilliance on the stage.

He jumped up from his pleasant dream to see his nieces and nephews along with some of their friends all crying, shouting and pointing at the alley. Their words were a confused gaggle and he only understood that they had encountered something scary there. One of them said Baccoo, the other Jumbie. Whichever it was, it was going to get a good thrashing from him. He suspected that it was just a cruel prank but prank or not the culprit would feel his wrath. He headed for the alley on the run.

“Uncle David don’t go. Baccoo gon get you!” His niece screamed and pleaded with him.

“I don’t believe in Baccoo! I not afraid of no Jumbie!”

The man said.

Big, big mistake.

As David descended into the alley he was met with an avalanche of missiles. He was hit on every conceivable part of the body.

The hero departed as fast as he had arrived howling in agony and bleeding from numerous lacerations.

The alley was officially declared off limits to everyone. Any curious thrill seeker who ventured there was met with the same fate as David.

Eventually the Obeah Man-Papa Duncan- was called in. He was paid a tidy sum to get rid of the spirit. Next night, the man went to work with a bunch of bananas, a bag of nuts and a bottle of cow milk.

No one knows what he did down in that dark alley, but he emerged from the alleyway with the Baccoo trapped in the bottle. All the children are now playing indoors.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

XXIII

Let’s talk about reparations AROUND the 1660s, African enslavement began and this was the genesis of a racialised system of chattel slavery which spurred the horrific Trans-Atlantic slave trade, native genocide and outright violations of human rights.

The effects of this are still being felt 180 years later and the Caribbean region has sought reparatory justice.

Now what exactly is reparatory justice and why are we calling for it now?

Here’s where pursuing History for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) shows its brilliance. This past academic year was the first year the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) introduced the study of Caribbean reparations in our syllabus.

And with moves apace from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to challenge European powers, the practicality of History comes to the fore.

Let me try to paint a clear picture without going full History nerd. Chattel slavery meant that the Africans were mere pieces of property, used at their owners’

discretion. The colonists were free to transport and use their property as they desired. For years, Africans who came to the Caribbean suffered; they toiled for their masters’ comforts and with barely any consideration for their rights as humans (Did I mention they weren’t actually considered human?).

But from 1823 when Amelioration was introduced, maybe, just maybe, the imperialists decided to listen to their conscience and accept that enslavement was just wrong.

A great Caribbean leader, Dr. Eric Williams, however, advanced that enslavement came to an end because it simply was not profitable enough. The cheap, manual labour was hindering the wave of industrialisation and crops could be produced at a significantly lower cost for the planters.

If the end of enslavement was guided by a guilty conscience, then it illustrates that the Europeans acknowledged that the system was inhumane. And if the end was prompted by the capitalists’ influence, then again the use and abuse of Africans manifests again because they were like broken toys just dis-

carded after they lost their purpose.

Do you see the picture?

But it doesn’t stop there, not by a long shot. You see, enslavement might have ended 180 years ago but to this day its effects are still felt.

Emancipation came but poverty ensued. The plantation legacy exacerbated the harsh working and living conditions faced during life as free people. And let’s not forget that the enslaved people were for the most part- not educated or trained.

Now the Heads of Government of CARICOM, in 2013, established the CARICOM Reparations Commission (CRC) which serves as a governing body to provide advice and coordinate the overall strategy, as well as national and regional activities to pursue reparations for the injustices that occurred through enslavement and because of enslavement. And through the Ten-Point Action Plan for Reparatory Justice, the Community is seeking to have the European powers that exploited the Africans and Indigenous people pay for the injustices.

Historian and Caribbean man, Sir Hilary Beckles chairs this com-

mission and has been spearheading the moves to hold the foreign governments accountable. In a lecture at the Oxford University, he stressed: “Most of [the Caribbean’s] public expenditure is about cleaning up what we call the colonial mess.”

And what exactly is this mess?

Consider for a minute that female-headed households are more susceptible to poverty, and this family type grew because of the pervasive experiences on the plantation where male absenteeism was the norm and females had to lead the family. Consider that Africans are more susceptible to some health issues because of their poor nutrition on the plantations. Consider that cultural, educational, economic and technological advancement has been stunted. Consider the lasting psychological damage. And consider most of all, that Africans were taken from their homeland and forced to work without redress and that they died easily alongside the thousands of natives who were decimated.

So when we celebrate Emancipation, we are not only celebrating mere freedom. We are celebrating

the strength and fortitude of our ancestors to surmount insurmountable circumstances. And now, to be truly free from the shackles of the legacy of enslavement, reparations must be the avenue we take.

And I know for a fact that there are many things that money cannot compensate for, but I believe the underlying symbolism is that responsibility has been taken for past misdeeds and efforts are genuinely being spared to correct these wrongs.

The CARICOM action plan calls for a full and formal apology, first and foremost. It details that the governments must work to repair all stunted development and damage done. Aside from being the right thing to do, it is a debt owed. These European countries made their wealth at the expenses of millions of enslaved Africans and they ought to repay their debt.

And though the concept of Caribbean reparations is slowly manifesting, it must be something that all Guyanese must get behind.

It will pave the way for the progression of the entire society. Better must come.

Helping people mentally and physically

Shazam Somwar

BEN E V O LENCE has no bounds, form or type and testimony to this is the work done by local medical student, Shazam Somwar who is on a mission to help people mentally and physically.

“My passion is being able to help others around me to have better health as I am currently studying medicine. This is one of the many things I love doing,” said the young medical student.

He hopes to become a person who people could turn to for advice or guidance, especially vulnerable

persons who would have encountered difficulties in their life.

Although medicine is his passion, Somwar also has an interest i n defending the rights of people and advocating for suicide prevention.

“In the future I wish to become a successful medical doctor so I can be able to help a lot of persons become more health conscious and take care of their health, not only do I wish to do that but also continue the advocacy for suicide prevention more so mental health issues,” he said, adding that he will also use his time to educate people about their rights.

While he is still young, Som-

war has already had his fair share of achievements, his most prized one being his enrollment to the Greenheart Medical University.

Also on his list of achievements was his chance to represent Guyana at an international forum, the 15th annual International Human Rights Summit at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The summit was hosted by the Youth for Human Rights International. It gave him an opportunity to do better and continue his advocacy for human rights.

“I volunteer a lot and due to my love for advocacy in the development of youths, advocacy for suicide prevention and human rights education,” he said.

He believes that young people are oftentimes taken for granted and labelled badly because of the wrongdoing of others. Persons also tend to underestimate one’s capa-

bilities and question whether they are capable to help others.

The phrase “you are too young for this” became normal to Somwar but he did not let it stop him and instead kept moving forward.

“I kept pushing to see success and prove them wrong by making sure ends meet and whatever it is I am doing bear fruit,” said the

aspiring doctor.

He advised other youth, who might be hearing the same, to not give up on their dreams because in the end there is no smooth road to success. Somwar encouraged them to work towards their dream and do not stay down if they fall, instead, rise again and try harder.

Department of Public Information XXIV

INFOHUB RECAP - July5, 26 2018 - Aug 1 Chronicle Pepperpot August

$7B World Bank loan for Finance sector

RECAP

PM pledges support for Constitutional Education Project

July 26th - Aug 1st

@dpiguyana

President commits to holding LGEs regularly

President David Granger has recommitted government to holding local government elections when it is constitutionally due. The Head of State delivering the feature address at the first-ever National Conference of Local Democratic Organs at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal said “As long as I am president we are going to have local government elections when they are constitutionally due...I’ll find the money to make sure that we have Local Government Elections. Democracy is expensive, but the alternative is worse,” President Granger said. President Granger noted that this government, consistent with its constitutional mandate, restored local democracy on March 18, 2016 after an absence of about two decades. Recently, the Minister of Communities has announced that elections will be held again on November 12, 2018. 

Two more radio stations to hit the airwaves

Historic MOU signed under “Belt and Road Initiative"

The government will prioritise transforming Guyana’s infrastructural landscape using funding from China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jainchun, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) within the framework of China’s Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st century Maritime Silk Road, more commonly referred to as the Belt and Road Initiative. The signing was done at the Chinese embassy in the presence of President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Ministers of Government. The MOU makes provision for cooperation in the areas of policy coordination, facilities connectivity, trade and investment, finance and integration, and people to people interaction. Guyana is the first South American country to cooperate with China under its Belt and Road Initiative. The massive trade and infrastructure investment project entails cooperation between China and more than 70 countries. 

Over $66M generated from CDP hinterland projects Two newly licensed radio stations are expected to go on air by the end of August and December 2018, respectively. These are Brutal Communications Incorporated of Brutal Track Records and Blackman & Sons Incorporated. During a follow-up visit by the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority's (GNBA) Chairman, Leslie Sobers stated that stations were given until the end of July to have their operations fully established. Sobers said the purpose of these visits is to ensure that the agencies are working towards a state of readiness and that the frequencies issued are not hoarded. 

The sum of $66,038,967 has been recorded from successful businesses implemented under the Community Development Plans (CDP) project as part of the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). This was disclosed by Mildred Akpan, Team Leader, Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). Akpan explained that while this income is nowhere close to the $1.2Billion invested in the project, the amount reflects a portion of the 159 communities who received full disbursement of $730, 351,945 Million. The Amerindian Development Fund was established to provide support for the socio-economic development and environmental enhancement of Indigenous communities via the implementation of Community Development Plans. Each of the 186 communities, who qualified for the project were eligible

Guyana is now the beneficiary of an approximate seven-billion-dollar Development Policy Credit (US$35M) following the signing of an agreement between Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan and World Bank Senior Country Director, Pierre Nadji. Minister Jordan said the loan will support the country’s finance sector. The development policy credit provides financing on the basis of the actions which Guyana has already undertaken with regard to Financial and Fiscal Stability, including the passage of critical legislation to ensure same. 

Speaker of the House upbraids PPP MP for breach of privilege

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo pledged financial, technical and logistical support for the University of Guyana’s Constitutional Education Project. Following a meeting with the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning and International Engagement, Dr. Barbara Reynolds, the Prime Minister said the initiative has his office’s full support. One of the main components of the university’s project recommends a nation-wide public education campaign led by the University of Guyana with civil society’s involvement. The survey would gauge the levels of knowledge and understanding of the Constitution and constitutional reform, while also identifying key areas for reform. The project will offer space and platforms for citizens dialogue and consensus building on Constitutional issues that touch on a wide range of topics of national interest ahead of the next National Elections due in 2020. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo also donated from his extensive book collection to the university. 

Critical paediatriccare unit opens

Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland has warned the House that allegations of impartiality by the Speaker can be treated as a breach of privilege and may be punished in accordance with the Standing Orders. The Speaker, at the 95th sitting of the National Assembly referred to a letter published in the dailies by Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Harry Gill which has made imputations against the Speaker of the House in his personal and professional capacities. The Speaker said MP Gill could have moved a motion as provided for in the Standing Orders, instead he proceeded to make public his discontent. This sort of the behaviour, Dr. Scotland cautioned, is “totally impermissible” in the House. He noted that this is the second occasion in two years where such disregard for the House has been displayed by MPs. The Speaker believes that silence by previous speakers may have emboldened MP Gill. Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo emphasised the need for appropriate measures to ensure that there is no continuation of this behaviour in the National Assembly. 

The Paediatric Critical Care Unit (PICU) at the Georgetown Public Hospital was officially declared open by the Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence. The unit has been in the pipeline for almost three years but was fast-tracked after visits were made by the minister and the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services.

The 16-bed High Dependency and Intensive Care Unit will serve critically ill children under the age of thirteen and will periodically house congenital heart diseases patients, regardless of age, who underwent surgical procedures compliments of the International Children’s Heart Foundation. Dr. Rodrigo Soto, Paediatric Cardiac Surgeon of the International Children Heart Foundation (ICHF), said the critical care unit is the first of its kind in Guyana. He added this will pave the way for an expanded PICU which will come into existence in late 2019. 

INFOHUB RECAP - July 26 - AugAugust 1 Chronicle Pepperpot 5, 2018

‘Emancipate yourself economically’ President Granger

Guyana commemorated the 180th anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery, President David Granger urged Guyanese to pursue ‘economic emancipation’, which he said will become the gateway, not only to a better quality of life, but to a greater country. Economic emancipation, he said, is built on four pillars, namely education, employment, enterprise and empowerment. The president kicked off his Emancipation activities at the 8th of May Movement’s ‘Cultural Night’ at the Beterverwagting (BV)/ Quamina Primary School on Tuesday the next day he was at the Number 53/ Union Village, where the Government of Guyana in collaboration with the Berbice Association of African Groups hosted the 2018 Emancipation Day celebrations. There, he handed over 25 bicycles for students to attend school. 

77 alleged TIP victims rescued for 2018 A total of seventy-seven (77) alleged victims of Trafficking In Persons (TIP) were rescued for the period January 05 - July 03, 2018. These victims were provided with the necessary psychosocial support by the Ministry of Social Protection.

Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, said that 60 of the 77 victims were placed in protective care, while some were assisted with job placements, educational and training opportunities along with judicial support when necessary. In May alone, eight of sixteen young ladies (14 Venezuelans, one Cuban and one from the Dominican Republic) were rescued during a raid executed by the Guyana Police Force (GPF). 

@dpiguyana

Govt addressing influx of Venezuelans

As the crisis in neighbouring Venezuela continues, hundreds of migrants are crossing the borders into Guyana’s territory seeking relief from the economic hardship. Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, during a visit to Mabaruma, Region One stated that “it is not Government’s intent to send back Venezuelans.” According to the minister, Venezuelans who have entered Guyana through legal ports of entry or by other illegal means will be registered so that government can compile a record. During the registration process, migrants will have to provide basic information such as their names, date of birth and the names of the persons who will be accommodating them.

This information will be used to keep track of migrants in the event that they relocate to another part of the country. While in Region One, Winston Felix, along with representatives from the representatives from the Civil Defense Commission (CDC), the Ministry of Health and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) begun distributing food and sanitation hampers to the Venezuelan migrants. 

Multimillion$$ Wismar Early Childhood Centre employing residents

Eight residents of One Mile, Wismar and neighbouring communities of Linden are to be employed at the recently commissioned Early Childhood Development Centre. The centre is one of six early childhood pilot projects co-funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Government and implemented by Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). It will provide care and educational services to 45 children under the age of five. Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, in brief remarks at the commissioning, said the facility will be of immense value to the community, making it possible for parents, especially mothers to seek employment and increase their household incomes. The construction of the One Mile ECDC commenced on September 4, 2017 and was completed on March 16, 2018. The centre was built at a cost of $39,483,782 by Faldhari Singh and Son Contracting Services, and the Design and Supervision consultant for the project was E&A Consultants. The 3,200 square foot facility will accommodate infants to school-agers, eight caregivers/teachers and an administrator. 

34 Lindeners soon to be homeowners Thirty-four Lindeners who have prequalified for housing units are now one step closer to receiving the keys to their homes to be constructed shortly. The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) will construct 60 single housing units before the end of 2018 in Amelia’s Ward, Linden. The project’s first phase will entail the construction of 20 single flat housing units and 14 single elevated housing units. These cost $5.3Million and $6.3Million, respectively. For the single flat units, $5.2Million will be expended on the actual structure while $100,000.00 will cover the cost of the lot. For the single elevated housing units, $6.2Million will be spent on constructing the house and $100,000.00 will go towards the lot. 

Works on Linden/ Ituni/Kwakwani road begin

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson inspected and confirmed that ongoing maintenance works have commenced on the Linden/Ituni/Kwakwani road. Earlier in May, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s (GGMC) awarded six road contracts valued over $650Million to several contractors for the maintenance of the Rockstone-Mabura, Kurupukari/ Annai/Lethem and the Linden/Ituni/Kwakwani roads. However, the projects were delayed due to intense rainfall that made the road impassable.

Minister Patterson said the original plan was to have the work commence earlier since piles of laterite were stockpiled since 2017 so that the contractor would be able to address maintenance issues immediately. 

More locals to work with Edison Chouest Offshore More Guyanese are expected to be employed

by Edison Chouest Offshore as the company aims to soon open its local company ‘G (Guyanese) Boats’ in Georgetown. This was disclosed by the company’s Business Development Manager, Daniel LaFont, who was at the time speaking on the sidelines of the El Dorado Offshore training session for Guyanese mariners. The 40 seamen were being instructed in occupational safety for jobs in the offshore oil and gas industry. Some 53 Guyanese are currently working on the Edison Chouest vessels. LaFont noted the company currently has nine vessels supplying ExxonMobil operations. With the rise and development of the oil and gas sector, local companies have been working towards improving and raising the standards within their operations. 

Department of Public Information XXV

$140M for resilience-building in Agri sector

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved some $140Million (US$697, 183) for Guyana’s second Readiness Support for the agriculture sector. Head, Office of Climate Change (OCC), Janelle Christian said approval was received by the country’s National Designated Authority (NDA), Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, in June. According to Christian, approval of this funding is a testimony to Guyana’s continued engagement with the GCF, which started two years ago. She explained that the idea for funding for the Agriculture sector was first advanced during a regional workshop hosted by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (UN/FAO) in May 2017 in Port of Spain, Trinidad. A proposal was then put forward for the Adaptation and Resilience Building in Guyana’s Agriculture sector. 

Transfer of NICIL properties to Kwakwani utility being examined The government is pursuing the transfer of some National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) properties now being maintained by the Kwakwani Utility Incorporated (KUI). KUI falls under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s Hinterland Electricity Company Incorporated (HECI) which is a subsidiary of NICIL. It is responsible for electricity distribution, as well as water and sewage disposal in Kwakwani. On a visit to Kwakwani, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson met with KUI’s General Manager, Fitzhubert McPherson and board members to discuss issues affecting the company and to share his 2019 plans for the community. Challenges with fuel acquisition, the poor performance of newly installed generator sets and the need for restructuring of the board were among issues discussed. Further, McPherson also bemoaned the problems encountered with NICIL properties, noting that KUI employees are looking after NICIL properties but the company is getting no returns. He recommended that instead of leaving the properties to deteriorate they could be rented to earn some income. Minister Patterson assured the board members that that issue will be addressed immediately. 

XXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

XXVII

FILES E S A C COURT

Husband murdered wife – Jailed for 10 years

Loses appeal against severity of sentence HUSBAND, Kissoon Wazar Alli,who allegedly murdered his wife in 1968 was permitted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, although on the depositions there was no indication of any circumstance to justify the acceptance of such a plea.

The trial judge who had permitted the plea of manslaughter after the prosecution showed its willingness to accept same, sentenced the accused Alli to 10 years imprisonment, Alli, expecting a much lighter sentence appealed against what he called the severity of the sentence.

The Guyana Court of Appeal, constituted

by Justices of Appeal, Mr. E.V. Luckhoo, Mr. Guya Persaud and Mr. P.A. Cummings, dismissed the appeal and affirmed the sentence as appropriate.

In the plea in mitigation, defence counsel Mr. Bernard De Santos, said inter alia that the

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

The Appellate Court held:-a plea of guilty does not necessarily mean that the prisoner genuinely regrets his act; if a sentence appears to be proper and appropriate, it matters not that something was taken into account which ought not to have been or something was taken into account which ought to have been.

On the facts as appeared in the depositions, there was little, if anything to mitigate the crime which had been committed, and in any event if there was remorse the judge’s memorandum of sentence showed that he must have had it in mind; Justice of Appeal Cummings who con-

curred with Luckhoo and Persaud had noted “the trial judge did not take into account several facts which he ought to have taken cognisance of, including,the plea of guilty to manslaughter, but in appeal against sentence the court is called upon to exercise a discretion and in so doing must have regard to all the circumstances.

The Appellate Court dismissed the appeal.

Mr. J. Gonsalves-Sabola represented the Crown, while Mr. Bernard De Santos appeared for the accused. President of the Court, Mr. E.V. Luckhoo who delivered the judgment disclosed “There is an application in this appeal for leave to appeal against sentence, on the ground that the learned trial judge failed to give adequate consideration to the appellant’s plea of guilty to manslaughter.

“He was on a charge of murder when the court, following the Crown’s willingness

to accept that plea,

By George Barclay permitted this to be done.

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

“On the depositions the learned judge on the authority of R. v. Soanes, [1948] 32 C. A. R. 136, would have been entitled to refuse to allow the appellant to plead guilty to manslaughter, because there was no indication on Turn to page XXXV ►►►

XXVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Spaced teeth IF YOU have a space between your teeth that you do not like, but you have not had it closed because you were told that it would take years of orthodontic treatment, then this article is for you. In addition to orthodontics, spaces between teeth can be corrected with bonding, composite veneers, or acrylic crowns among other options. But don’t be surprised if people don’t recognise exactly what is different about you. Just get ready for comments like, “You look terrific!”

Many people don’t realise the effect a space between the front teeth can have on a person’s appearance. Consider the story of a man in his 40s who had a gap closed between his front upper front teeth. A week after the crowns were placed he said, “Some of my friends thought I had a new hairstyle. Others actually thought I’d had a facelift! They don’t realise that the only

thing different is that the space between my front teeth is gone.” This same phenomenon happens over and over again. Why? Because for the first time people are actually looking at the person’s face instead of the space between his or her teeth.

Spaces between teeth are most often caused by heredity. However, they also may be caused by personal habits such as tongue thrusting or by abnormal tongue or swallowing movements. The loss of bone under the gum tissue can also cause teeth to separate, as can loss of the back of the teeth, which often transfers chewing activity forward. This is called teeth migration. How a space is treated has a lot to do with its cause.

There are several ways to close unsightly gaps. Which method is chosen depends on the cause of the space, its size, its location, and the condition of adjacent teeth. Both are relatively

expensive and your personal needs will play a significant role in your choice of treatment.

Correcting space problems, however, usually involves one of the three Rs. Repositioning teeth with orthodontics.

When teeth are attractive and healthy, repositioning is the ideal treatment, as it involves no loss of enamel. Some alternatives, such as full crowns, require sacrificing healthy tooth structure for cosmetic correction.

Restoring teeth through bonding, or crowns. Patients frequently prefer immediate results. In such cases, bonding or laminating with composite may be the answer. In other cases, a combination of therapies offers the best results.

Removal of teeth, followed by replacement with a bridge or implant. Removal is used only as a last resort. Depending on the situation, I usually complete an implant in one to five months. But just keep in mind that the goal of treatment is always to fill the space while avoiding the loss of teeth or tooth structure as much as possible.

The removable acrylic overlay is a device formed from thin acrylic or plastic made to

cover the space and blend with adjacent teeth.

It is easily snapped in, and the intimate fit of the appliance to the teeth holds it in place. Removable acrylic overlays were more commonly used before the advent of bonding. They were often worn by models, actors, and others who didn’t want to crown their teeth just to close a space.

While these overlays may look attractive from a distance, they often do not bear up well under close scrutiny. They add bulk to the natural teeth. However, because the plastic is so thin, it’s difficult to make overlays look natural, they can fracture and discolour easily. Moreover, eating with them can be a problem. They are relatively cheap and can be considered temporary, but I personally would not want them for myself.

In some cases, however, the removable acrylic overlay may still be a desirable alternative. On the positive side, it’s inexpensive, and it hides spaces well, particularly for photographic purposes. If you have a special event coming up or just want a trial smile to see how you would look without your gap, talk to your dentist about getting a removable acrylic overlay.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

XXIX

MAN OVERBOARD! ASLEEP!!

I WAS among a batch of developers scheduled to visit Kimbia by boat. Travelling by night we arrived at the New Amsterdam Stelling at 06:00hrs to await the ferry plying this long and busy river.

At 20:00hrs she opened her gangway, and the rush was on to find seats and accommodation on this modest vintage ship. This rambled stormed the decks, casting their loaded bags and baskets all over, since they had brought produce to New Amsterdam market. Now they were taking home essential supplies. And they were rowing and cursing, jostling to find a seat. By the time our turn came around, there was no seat. I happened to squeeze by a trader but gave my space to one of our companions – a lady of course.

The ship drifted away at 21:45hrs, later than her scheduled time. It would be a long tedious and painful trip (eight hours). Sailing up the dark waters at 10 knots per hour, the

lack of sleep, mosquitos and the constant rain made the journey miserable, and the engine room made a lot of noise. But the cacophony of snores was unbearable, especially from the tired sellers. Many slept on the cargo hold in the open. They were dozing as the rain fell. Sleep – a powerful force.

Human bodies were sprawled everywhere like corpses.

The ferry made its first stop midstream.

It was a welcomed break from the boredom of those who were awake. They looked on excitedly as the river business was conducted. The ship cut all engine and drifted.

She switched on the power searchlight and the farmers and river taxis came alongside grabbing the safety ropes. It was a risky manoeuvre but with no wharves, it was the only way to board or disembark the vessel.

And the ladies showed no fear in jumping into those balahoos (flat-bottom boats). One vendor, still in a state of drowsiness tried to

board one of the crafts. He fell overboard and one of the farmers clutched him by the collar and rescued him still dozing. The crew placed him almost lifeless in the rescue boat.

All wet he crumbled, “Ah you lef me alone, me want sleep!”

We all laughed. He didn’t realise he missed drowning.

The ship made a few more stops, as the dock cleared of outgoing passengers. We got seats but not for long. At the break of dawn, we reached our destination – Kimbia. Those who sat tightly found it painful to stand and walk – poor circulation and corned buttocks.

Those who were deprived of sleep exhibited red eyes and drowsiness and could barely

walk. But we had to disembark and it was so good to touch land again. As soon as we reached the reception hall we all fell asleep.

The caterers had an amusing time getting us to take breakfast.

At 06:00hrs the next day, we were back in the shop refreshed. It was a bright departure and there were lots of vacant seats. We were the first passengers and as usual, the vendors came on board with their cargo and loudmouths. Then, as usual, the rain came. I still peeped through the opening of the canvas shutters to view the shoreline, though it was all bush.

Passing by the Berbice River run was miserable but memorable.

XXX

Celebration time LOTS of celebrations were held within one week. Hours after stepping off the plane after my US tour, I attended the homegoing celebration for my friend, the late Denise Thompson.

We were friends for over 15 years. She was a phenomenal woman of integrity whom I admired. Denise was one of the founding members of the Guyana Fashion Week Committee and she made an invaluable contribution that will be remembered.

I met this beautiful woman years ago at Piarco Airport because of the outfit I was wearing (one of my designs) and she became a client instantly. We connected and the relationship developed into something special because we both have a heart for philanthropy.

As I listened to the eulogy I remembered Stephen Covey’s

quote, “Begin with the end in mind” from the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. What do you want your Eulogy to read?

She had a heart for people and it reflected in her eulogy.

“At the end of life, we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, or how many great things we have done. We will be judged by ‘I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless, and you took me in.’”- Mother Teresa I strongly believe that we all can do something every day to add value to someone’s life.

The next day I attended the annual Emancipation Day celebration in the National Park. It is always a pleasure to see families in their Afrocentric outfits and investing quality time.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel

... Inspiring lives through fashion I wore one of my designs and accessories created by Chey (my daughter’s Jewelry line). The craft displays and variety of foods were very impressive.

The cultural presentations on the main stage were wonderful and the rhythm coming from the African drummers made me want to dance. It was nice chatting with people I was meeting for the first time and others I am familiar with, including Ras Camo and Ras Leon. At these celebrations, a thought that constantly comes to the surface are the lyrics shared in the late

Bob Marley song ‘Redemption Song’: “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery none but our selves can free our minds.”

I had less than one hour to change from African to Indian attire for my next function which was a pre-wedding celebration before the wedding at the Marriott. The ever-so-dapper Dr. Rosh Khan and his beautiful bride-to-be, Arifa, invited friends, colleagues and family for a pre-celebration before the big event at the Marriott.

I was seated behind the couple with Amanda Caudwell from the US Embassy on my left and Minister Gaskin to my right. It was an evening of elegance and display of culture.

They are one of the most beautiful couples I have seen in a while. I have known Rosh for a while and he introduced me to Arifa a couple years ago. I instantly noticed what a magnificent couple they were and would always tease him about the wedding which is finally happening. I can see them intentionally growing into an even more powerful union and my best wishes are with them. Rosh is so cool that he even took a selfie with us. I can’t wait to see the gorgeous kids. Talking about kids and celebration, my younger daughter, Shonta, is celebrating her 22nd birthday today which makes her a lion like her mom. The most powerful Zodiac sign, if I may boast and I know President Obama, Jennifer Lynn Lopez, Madonna and other people will agree with me.

What are you CELEBRATING today? Send us an email to beyondtherunway1@gmail.com Let’s continue to celebrate daily as we continue this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

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#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Mission: Impossible – Fallout IN A way, this is a review for those people who have never given the “Mission: Impossible” movies a chance. I won’t say that Tom Cruise is one of my favourite actors, nor will I say that the “Mission: Impossible” franchise which has spawned so many action movies is one that I have been particularly drawn to in the past. In fact, besides “Fallout” the only other movie in the series that I can actually remember seeing is the one where Thandie Newton and Tom Cruise are standing on a cliff and she injects some sort of serum that is valuable and important to the plot of the film into her arm. I don’t even remember the full title of the film. Of course, this could be because I was quite young (still a child) when these movies first emerged, but, truthfully, it also has to do with the whole spy trope portrayed in the films being something I was never really into. I feel the same way about the Bourne films and quite a lot of the James Bond films.

Maybe spy-action-thriller is really not my genre. However, I decided to give “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” a chance because I saw notices from the media that compared it to “Mad Max: Fury Road” – which, in my opinion, is not only one of the best action movies of the new Millenium, but also one of the best movies in general. So, I went to watch “Fallout” just to see if these comparisons were warranted.

It turned out that while “Fallout” lacks the artistry of “Mad Max: Fury Road,” it is still a surprisingly, astoundingly, exhilaratingly well-done action movie. I went into the movie-theatre with expectations that were not so high and I came out with my mind fully blown.

The film is written and directed by Christopher McQuarrie, who gives us a plot that is complicated enough for a spy film, but not so complicated so as to confuse the audience (even those who have not seen the previous films). No, McQuarrie gives us a story that unfolds within the Exposition-Rising Action-Climax-Denouement formula, even as each of those areas is layered in such a way so as to give us depth and wonderful narrative heft. Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) loses three plutonium cores to the bad guys known as The Apostles. Hunt and his team go to Paris in order to track down the plutonium. Once there, he meets the White Widow (Vanessa Kirby) who asks Hunt to release Solomon Lane (Sean Harris), a captured anarchist as proof of fidelity to her and as a way of securing the plutonium.

Hunt completes the task, but matters only get more complicated when the importance of Solomon Lane to several people, working both with and against Hunt, is revealed.

As an action film, visuals and fight scenes are as essential as dance sequences are to a film about the ballet. With the fight and action scenes in this film being particularly top-notch, it is safe to say then that there lies the proof that “Fallout” is a blast of fun and a thoroughly good action movie. There are so many brilliantly executed scenes to highlight: from Hunt and Walker (Henry Cavill) jumping out of an aircraft into a lightning-strewn storm, to Hunt leaping across rooftops and running through streets and across bridges as if his life depended on it, to the brutal and beautiful fight scene in the bathroom – complete with a stunningly-choreographed fist-fight, shards of glass and loads of tension, and finally, to Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson) and Benji (Simon Pegg) rescuing and saving each other in the climax of the film in a showdown with Solomon Lane himself.

The film is a myriad of delights that any action movie buff would thoroughly enjoy.

That being said, action alone does not make a good action movie. There is heart and emotion to be found also. Take for example, a heartbreaking scene when Hunt has to decide whether to shoot an unwitting cop who was just doing her job and ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time or any other scene where Hunt has to make a choice between his friends and the greater good, or even the reunion between Hunt and his ex-wife, Julia (Michelle Monaghan), who has now remarried, or the tender moment when Ilsa whispers something to Julia and even though the audience never hears what it is, it doesn’t really matter at this point because it is enough that the moment highlights a connection between the two women who care the most for Hunt.

The acting is also really quite good, and “Fallout” served as a reminder of why Cruise has been an enduring presence in Hollywood. The man seems to never run out of energy, and this only amplifies the ease of his performance, showcasing a

hero who is flawed and is now struggling with surpassing those flaws. I think Cruise is beautifully nuanced in this film and truly a joy to watch. Vanessa Kirby (Princess Margaret from “The Crown”) is sexy, ambiguous, and fierce – everything a femme fatale should be. Rebecca Ferguson is growing on me as an actress and I’m starting to see her presence building in films and I’ve begun to be more appreciative of her work. In “Fallout” she is on par with Cruise both in terms of acting and action – as is

Henry Cavill who one might even regard as a younger version of Tom Cruise. Finally, Simon Pegg brought his comic timing and charm to the movie which tempered the rough shooting and punching everyone in the team was doing.

“Fallout” has invigorated my interest in both the franchise as well as the whole spy action thriller genre as a whole. It is a masterfully entertaining film – one that ensured that I am left eagerly awaiting the sequel.

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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Air Quality and Noise Management

THOUGH it is all around us, air is one of the components of the environment often overlooked because it typically cannot be seen. It faithfully serves all life on earth, plants, animals, and mankind, through unique intertwined processes in the environment. Air quality, like other aspects of the environment such as

water and forests, is under threat from human action.

Indoor and outdoor air quality are important for the quality of life on earth.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is mandated under the Environmental Protection Act, Chapter 20:05, Laws of Guyana, to stem the creation of pollution havens, preserve, protect and enhance the national air quality, and ensure that clean air is maintained while economic growth occurs. Further, the

Air Quality Regulations and Noise Management Regulations, both established in 2000, are jointly enforced to manage air emissions in Guyana.

The Air Quality and Noise Management (AQNM) Programme of the EPA is tasked mainly with the enforcement of these regulations which guide the establishment of parameter limits, the issuance of environmental authorisation, monitoring and compliance assessment, and research

for the management of air contaminants.

KNOW YOUR NOISE LIMITS

WHO NEEDS TO BE AUTHORISED? Any activity which emits any air contaminants in the construction, installation, operation, modification or extension of any facility relating to industry, commerce, agriculture, or any institution must be authorised by the EPA. Some of these contaminants include smoke, solid particles (e.g. sawdust, cement), sulphuric

acid mist, fluoride and hydrogen compounds, chlorine and carbon monoxide. Another important potential air contaminant is radioactive particles. These are typically utilised in medicine and industry and must be managed safely. It is an offence under the Air Quality Regulations to start any such activity without the approval of the EPA. Penalties include fines of up to $500,000 and imprisonment for six months.

Likewise, activities producing noise from construction, installation, operation, modification or extension of any facility, must be authorised. Anyone who wishes to operate a loudspeaker or any other sound-making device or equipment at a public space (e.g. barbecues, shows, nightclubs) or at any private premises must seek permission from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Depending on the nature of the activity, the EPA grants two types of noise permits - ShortTerm Noise Permit and Long-Term Noise Permit.

The AQNM Programme processed 97.8 percent of applications received for Environmental Authorisation in 2017.

COMPLAINTS MANAGEMENT The EPA frequently responds to complaints regarding air pollution. Most of these complaints are concentrated on the coast and are relating to odour nuisances from livestock rearing, fumes from spray painting activities, dust and noise from sawmills and construction, noise from restaurants, bars, and mechanic workshops. More than seventy (70) complaints related to air pollution were investigated in 2017. Noise producing activities must comply with the noise limits specified

in the Noise Management Regulations.

NEW INITIATIVES – RADIATION SAFETY Under the AQNM Programme, the EPA is engaged in improving the safety and security of sealed radioactive sources through registration and authorisation.

Moisture density gauges used in the construction sector are an example of sealed sources found in Guyana It is important that sealed sources be regulated to ensure that they are managed in safe, secure environments by personnel who have received specialised training.

Serious injuries and death can occur when radioactive sources are not managed properly.

In its journey to improve the management of sealed sources, the EPA is receiving much support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, the EPA is implementing two projects funded by the IAEA. The projects seek to “establish and/or improve a sustainable, safe, adequate and permanent cradle to grave control of radioactive sources, consistent with the IAEA Safety Standards” and “establish and sustain the national safety infrastructure for the control of radiation sources”. To date, under these projects the EPA has benefited from three training workshops and is aggressively pursuing them.

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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Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018 ◄◄◄ From page XXVII

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

The judgment added, “In this case the appellant had gone to his mother-in-law, Seupallie, for lunch during which he had imbibed a certain quantity of drink. The evidence reveals that three persons drank a quarter bottle of rum. After having his lunch he returned back to his home with his wife and children. Seupallie was on her verandah not far from the appellant’s home when she heard talking. Presumably there was a quarrel. She then saw her daughter go out on her own verandah and the appellant followed her saying that he was going to kill her, whereupon she said to him, “Kill me nah!” He then plunged a knife into her body which Seupallie saw used more than once. Soon after the daughter fell to the floor and died. Seupallie shouted for help and one Paul Benjamin and another went to the scene.

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

“The appellant gave up the cutlass and the knife and told people about the place that he had killed his wife and he wanted to be taken to the police station. At the police station he repeated that statement - that he had killed his wife. He made a written statement to the police in which he said, “Ah stab she wid the knife pun she left side because Paul Benjamin, she brother, lash me wid ah bellnah pan me head.” Paul Benjamin, on the evidence at the Preliminary Inquiry, was not at the appellant’s home at the time when he stabbed his wife. He went there afterwards.

“In that setting then, can this court say that the sentence of 10 years was excessive? Or was it not an appropriate sentence?

Lord DENNING in his memorandum to the Royal Commission on Capital Punishment used these words in relation to punishment.

“Punishment is the way in which society expresses its denunciation of wrong-doing; and in order to maintain respect

XXXV for the law, it is essential that the punishment inflicted for grave crimes should adequately reflect the revulsion felt by the great majority of citizens for them.”

Justice Luckhoo went on to say that on the facts as appear on the depositions there was little, if anything, in mitigation of the crime committed. The appellant had had the benefit of his plea to manslaughter accepted which was an extraordinary advantage in the circumstances. “I will assume that there was genuine remorse. Surely the trial judge must have had this in his mind when he said in his memorandum of sentence: “Having agreed to all the circumstances of this case, the character of the defendant and with the hope of effecting a reformation on the defendant . . . I imposed a sentence of 10 years.”

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

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

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English THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Students, Review in line with your on-going review plan from your summary notes. Review immediately after study, within 24 hours, after one week, and gain after one month.

Keep on reviewing after three months and frequently coming up towards the examination. Psychologists maintain that you forget 50% of what you read immediately, 80% within 24 hours, and 90% within a week unless you review. Let your on-going review plan ensure that material is passed from short-term memory to your long-term memory, and right into the examination room. Be wise.

Love you IMPROVING WRITING Let’s build our confidence in expressing ourselves favourably in extended writing. Let’s use well-structured compound sentences to help us do this.

Reminder 1: The word compound implies that, included in our sentence structures, there are sentence that have two or more main clauses.

Reminder 2: A main clause or independent clause expresses a complete idea.

The music festival season is culminating.

(This group of words contains a verb, is culminating, and is, therefore a main clause or independent clause.)

It is quite different from these other groups of words: While the music festival is culminating.

A smattering of everything, and a knowledge of nothing.

CHARLES DICKENS (1812-1870) [Minerva House.] Sketches by Boz, Tales, ch. 3.

Sentiment

Unless the music festival is culminating.

We’ll notice that even though these word-groups contain a verb and a subject, they do not express a complete thought, for they are dependent or subordinate clauses. We can naturally ask, “What happens while the music festival is culminating, or what is it that fails to happen unless the music festival is culminating?”

You’ll now see examples of compound sentences that consists of two or more independent clauses. Please make note.

1. The Yorkshire terrier pricked up its ears, but Charlotte heard nothing.

(Here the two main clauses are connected by a co-ordinate conjunction.)

2. Either Gregory did not know the rules of the dancing competition, or the judge made a wrong call.

(Here the main clauses are connected by correlative conjunctions.)

3. The family-connection is slight; it may not hold up.

(The two main clauses here have no joining conjunction; they are separated by a semi-colon.)

4. The family-connection is slight; therefore we shall not go that route.

(The two main clauses are connected by a conjunctive adverb.

A conjunctive adverb, as the name indicates, is an adverb used as a conjunction.

Common conjunctive adverbs are moreover, indeed, in fact, however, never-theless, so, consequently, accordingly, thus, therefore, besides, also, furthermore, hence, likewise, otherwise, still, then, yet.

5. The alert Yorkshire terrier pricked up its ears, but Charlotte heard nothing; her thoughts were with her country folk.

(Three independent or main clauses form this compound sentence.)

[Remember that only closely related and equally important ideas should be combined to make a compound sentence. See next issue for more information on the compound sentence.]

SOMETHING TO DO Discuss among your circle of study partners whether the following sentences are simple or compound. Underline the subject and predicate of each clause.

1. Over the holidays, Simona and Jeffrey learn swimming, playing the organ, or making cheese cake.

2. Never before had we played golf, and never before had we suffered such embarrassment.

3. The laptop computer sat there before Frank, but his mind was a blank sheet.

4. The sunset painted the white clouds in the west and north with shimmering vermillion colours.

5. Foreigners shopped with frantic eagerness; some became considerate, but others kept their self-possession.

6. Sydney loves fish; Vera prefers chicken.

THE PASSAGE Using a short passage to do précis work This exercise is hoped to have you work with the contents of a whole passage.

SOMETHING TO DO Summarise the whole passage (250 words) in not more than 65 words. You may have to use some words or brief expressions from the given passage but, as far as possible, use your own words. You may provide a suitable title for your précis. Ask about three or four study partners to each produce a précis also.

(We will work through a complete précis in the next few weeks.)

The passage Stanley Spencer never looked on his writing as something private; he intended to publish what he wrote. His autobiography was to be a fulfilment and rounding-off of his painting. But as a writer he lacked the discipline which made composition the outstanding feature of his painting. He wrote with wonderful freshness, but could not cut or select or prune; everything was of equal importance. When Morris Collis received the two trunks and the large wooden box on castors, containing these papers he was appalled. To read every word, let alone, select and arrange in chronological order this mountain of papers which, taken out of their trunks, filled an entire room, seemed at first an impossible task.

With the help of his daughter, a writer herself and used to research, he set to work. Often he worked seven days a week and sometimes late at night, not because he was being pressed by his publishers, but because he found the material engrossing. The occasional reports he sent at this time were all the more interesting because we knew he was not a man of gushing or even ready enthusiasm. A selection of these bulletins reads: “Stanley Spencer is a wonderful original, a far more remarkable man than I supposed before I read the papers.”

“New drama increases the more one reads.”

“New and extraordinary material goes on appearing.”

“The whole of Stanley Spencer’s life is revealed in his pictures if one has the key.”

(Irene Stirling: “The Spencer Papers” (in The Bookseller))

Chronicle Pepperpot August 5, 2018

Callaloo Cook-up Rice Ingredients 1/2 lb Pickled pig’s tail (1 large-tail) or pig’s foot 1 lb Beef stew meat, cubed 2 tb Oil 1/2 lb Raw tripe * 5 c Water 1 md Onion, peeled and chopped 2 Garlic cloves, peeled and -chopped 1 lb Calalloo (Spinach) leaves, chopped (see -note) 1/4 ts Chopped fresh Habanero-(Scotch Bonnet) pepper ** 5 Ounce can coconut milk Salt and pepper 1 lb long-grain rice 1/2 c Chopped red bell pepper, -for garnish * (may substitute chicken) Instructions Put the pig’s tail in pot and cover with water; bring to a boil, and boil for 1 hour. Drain and set aside. Brown beef in oil, then add tripe and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook at a gentle boil for about 1 hour. Add pig’s tail and cook until liquid has reduced to about 3 cups. Cut tripe into pieces and cut meat from pig’s foot; return meats to pot.

Add onion, garlic, taro leaves, Habanero, coconut milk and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add rice. Cover the pot, reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, until mixture “looks nice and green.” Garnish with chopped red pepper.

Notes In Guyana, where the dish originates, Cook-Up Rice is a must-have dish on Old Year’s Night (New Year’s Eve). Large pots of Cook-Up Rice are made with bits of ham, tripe, salted pork and fresh beef. The peas/beans of choice usually being black-eye peas.

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