SEE INSIDE: Page II
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Ready for Township
Pursuing their dreams through education
The Mighty Rebel Laid to Rest
The blossoming community of Mahdia
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
Pursuing their dreams through education
Tapakuma, Mainstay students take advantage of government school bus By Indrawattie Natram
high level of school dropouts in Indigenous communities due to the high cost of transportation and parents’ inability to afford such costs. SITTING anxiously while awaiting the signature yellow and green Another student from the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary school bus to arrive at Anna Regina, 14-year-old Serena Benn, a resi- School, Trevor Persaud said that he wakes up as early as 05:00hrs to dent of the St Deny’s/Tapakuma community in Region Two, said she is catch the bus. He said knowing that a bus is coming for you alone is an forever thankful to President David Granger for the gift he presented incentive to attend school. Previously, he said he had to walk a long disto the children of the community. The gift Benn was referring t, is the tance to access public transportation and sometimes his parents couldn’t two-seater ‘David afford it. G 13’ school bus C o n that was donated tracted drivin 2016 to chiler, George dren in the ReRockcliff, gion, in an effort has been for them to have transporteasier access to ing the chiltransportation dren to and to get to school. from school The young over the last Serena Benn (centre) and some lady said that two years. other children who benefit from Flashback- During the commissioning of the bus not only He said he the bus service. the bus at Tapakuma/St Deny's Community serves as a vemakes sevhicle but it proeral trips vides children like her with the each morning because he has to opportunity to attain a better transport children from Tapastandard of education. Benn kuma/St Deny’s and Mainstay/ who is an aspiring doctor said Wyaka villages. He related that that she honestly knew that her in total the children from these parents could not have afforded communities travel as much as 36 to pay a bus fee for her. She miles to get to school daily. said that on a daily basis, beOver the years Rockcliff has fore the provision of the bus, develop a love for the children. He her parents would have had to said that 54 children benefit from find $800 a day to spend on the service daily. transportation alone. The driver said that whenever “For me I am thankful the bus is due for maintenance for this bus. My parents save the children would be stranded $800 per day- that’s $4,000 and some of them sometimes stay weekly from Tapakuma to the home, so he tries his best to mainAnna Regina Multilateral. My tain the bus and to do any necessary President David Granger meeting parents are farmers and if the mechanical work on weekends. with the children during the bus was not in place I would Apart from the bus services, commissioning ceremony in 2016 not have been able to reach Rockcliff said the students were givthis far in my schooling” en solar panels recently so that they Benn said. can study in the nights. He said that The young lady, who is a prefect due to the fact that they have to wake up early in her class at the Anna Regina Multiin the morning they are given free breakfast at lateral Secondary School, said that she the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School feels motivated every day knowing that dormitory. The breakfast is complimented with she is one step closer to her dreams. the free bus service and is a way of boosting the Like Benn, Emanuel Simon said attendance rate at the various schools. that the bus is a great help to his family, The school bus was handed over on Sep“From our house, four children benefit. tember 29, 2016 to the St Deny’s/TapakuThat is a great relief for my parents. My ma, Mainstay/Whyaka community under siblings and I are thankful that we are Ready to go! Children sitting in the the President’s Five Bs programme. The school bus on their way to school. given the opportunity to attend school bus was donated by popular Essequibo because some of my other siblings are businessman Joe Jagmohan in collaboraschool dropouts because my parents tion with Innovating Mining Inc. During could not have afforded the transportation cost,” Simon said. the handing over ceremony, President Granger had said he was not Evidence of what Simon describes can be found in the recently released happy with the state of education, especially in the hinterland com2017 Study on Indigenous Women and children in Guyana conducted munities, and as such he provided the bus so that children can be able by the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), which found to pursue their dreams. that there is a
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
Ready for Township
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The blossoming community of Mahdia By Ravena Gildharie AS GUYANESE would put it, “it is a place that does get bright when it gets dark.” A great deal of irony, but nothing short of a description for Mahdia, one of Guyana’s oldest mining hubs, and yet still so reputable for its buoyant nightlife and iconic fascinations to passing gold and diamond miners. Desolate streets at daytime bounce alive at nightfall, as the seven popular nightspots blast the latest and most popular tunes, and its earliest patrons emerge to spend time at the most luring of attractions. Beyond this energetic social ambience, however, lies a community in transition; one that is ripe for modernity; slowing rising to shake off the lawless labels often bestowed on such mining hubs. Undeniably, much progress has been made and more remains in train as Mahdia gears up for township status. But what does being a municipality mean to the people who call Mahdia home? And is the community ready to own its stake as a town? Certainly so, says Roger Hinds, one of Mahdia’s most prominent and influential businessmen who holds the community closest to heart. “For us, Mahdia is ready for township, like yesterday… Township status will mainly provide Mahdia with economic growth and the unity required to collectively build capital assets such as a bank, housing schemes and industrial parks, agricultural farms and expand our tourism potential.” While this vision is shared among most residents, Hinds has been on his own quest to transform Mahdia, as his name is synonymous with many of the latest developments and business ventures that have boosted the community beyond that of a usual mining hub. These include a modern hotel and supermarket. At the latter, shelves are well stocked with any and everything including a section that supplies fresh agricultural produce right out of Hinds’ farm. “I am willing, along with many others here in Mahdia to work in unity with the President’s vision for the township of Mahdia,” Hinds asserted, noting that since the community is situated at the centre of Guyana, it can become the administrative nucleus for government. Hinds is cognisant that Mahdia has made great strides over time, especially in areas of infrastructure, communications and basic services such as water and electricity.
INFRASTRUCTURAL BOOST
At present, the massive construction of concrete roads
Mahdia on the rise
Salbora Reservoir
Businessman Roger Hinds at his supermarket with fresh produce from his farm
A newly upgraded gas station
and drains is underway in Mahdia as part of a $1.5 billion 2018 subvention for the upgrade of hinterland roads in Regions One, Eight, Seven, Nine and 10. Works have also started on the rehabilitation of the road linkage between Bartica and Mahdia. The upgrade is being done in phases, the first includes works from Mile 19 to Mile 33, Mile 78 to Cassandra Crossing along the Bartica/Potaro road and Mahdia to Denham, which was reported as completed last May. This year’s projected works on phase two comprise work from Mile 33 to Mile 68 along the Bartica/Potaro road. The third and final phase will begin in 2019 and will see the rehabilitation of the Denham Bridge, construction of a Cassandra Crossing bridge and road works from Cassandra Crossing to Denham. These infrastructural upgrades complement Mahdia’s township development drive, even as consultation has been ongoing with residents including in the nearby indigenous villages of Campbelltown and Princeville. “I find that over the course of time, the provision of essential services is becoming much more steady, stable and reliable in Mahdia,” Hinds indicated. He noted that “regular advancements such as the upcoming Solar PV Farm, will ensure that Mahdia as a town can attract the many other industries and economic ventures.” Against this background, the businessman is confident
A group of youth at a boxing training camp in Mahdia
Students of Mahdia Nursery School at break
that “with hard work, this will quickly lead to Mahdia becoming a vibrant commercial hub.”
SOCIAL SERVICES
Already the thrust for township status has been a source of motivation for local businesses and even new investors who are increasingly capitalising on economic opportunities in
Mahdia. Existing businesses have been rushing to upgrade their facilities and services. This enthusiasm has led to the expansion and upgrade of restaurants, hotels and retail outlets. Just recently, the community officially launched the Mahdia Chamber of Commerce which is working on its own path of commercial growth in a unified and guided approach involving the
most active investors in the area. The popular Adams’ family-owned restaurant, for instance, is opened 24-hours offering hot meals and other delicacies fresh off the stove. Currently, the business is expanding to meet growing customers’ demand. According to Shauneille Jourdain, headteacher of the Mahdia Secondary School, the gear for township is also shoving residents to make necessary adjustments to further advance their community. She noted that residents are eager to clear their community from the age-old stigma associated with mining hubs, where coastlanders often postulate with rampant vulgarity and lawlessness driven by strip clubs and prostitution rings. “We the people living here are working to change that label, because often when you meet someone they say ‘oh you are from Mahdia, the place where you have lots of ‘bad woman’ around.’ We don’t want people to keep thinking of Mahdia as ‘the bush’,” Jourdain told this publication in an interview. She was born in Mahdia and has been a teacher for over 20 years. During this time, she witnessed first-hand the progress in Mahdia’s education sector. Since the Mahdia Secondary School was opened in 2002, it has been producing a high calibre of students, emerging with as much as seven passes in one sitting at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certif-
icate (CSEC) Examination. The school currently has an enrollment of 356 students and 11 teachers on staff, while two are on upgrading courses at the University of Guyana and Cyril Potter’s College of Education (CPE) in Region Four. Just recently the school was boosted with the addition of a trained mathematics teacher. Notably, Jourdain proudly observed that many of the emerging students, after advancing their education, have been returning to take up employment posts in their community as nurses, lab technicians, teachers and employees in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC). Further, just last April, the Department of Education official unveiled a three-year teachers training programme in Mahdia targeting early childhood and primary level teachers. Jourdain is the coordinator of that programme and also lectures to the teachers. Outside of education, Jourdain acknowledged the many other developments registered in Mahdia, such as the provision of potable water and electricity. She noted that before the Mahdia Power and Light Company, residents were forced to purchase electricity from private suppliers at expensive costs. Only a few residents could have afforded such. Now, all residents of Mahdia enjoy several hours of electricity provided at a subsided cost and at a scheduled time from 12:00hrs to 08:00hrs. Potable water supply is also reliable from the Salbora Reservoir. Jourdain recalled earlier days when residents had to purchase water at a cost of about $6,000 per black tank. The teacher also highlighted the introduction of Radio Mahdia another boost for the community while noting the provision of mobile services from both GTT and Digicel. Looking ahead, Jourdain said residents are eager that more will be done as Mahdia becomes a town, a place where residents will have more added services and will no longer have to leave their community to travel to Georgetown and elsewhere, to access basics amenities. A commercial bank is one of the first developments Mahdia is hoping for, as well as decentralisation of registry services such as application and issuance of passports, birth certificates and other licences. For now, residents of Mahdia are all joining hands and efforts and rallying with central and local government to make their home one of the best towns ever.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
A boost for youth empowerment
The Guyana National Cadet Corps By Lisa Hamilton
MAKE way for the region’s newest Cadets on the block! The Guyana National Cadet Corps (GNNC) is taking the country by storm where youths from ages12-16 are being suited up to be the
country’s future leaders. The National Cadet Corps is a brainchild of President David Granger which was officially relaunched in January 2018, with an aim to set youths on the path to achieve their full potential. Participating in a curricu-
lum mixture of academic and adventure are some 432 youths from six secondary schools stretched across five regions in the country. These include: Hope Secondary and North Ruimveldt Secondary (Region Four); the Stewartville Secondary School in (Region Three); Berbice High School (Region Six) St. Ignatius Secondary School (Region Nine) and the Mackenzie High School ( Region 10`) Each was selected based on the presence of the Reserve Component of the Guyana People’s Militia (GPM) which has been tasked with training
“The GNCC will allow youths in every region to be able to understand and appreciate what it means to be responsible, respectful and have an appreciation for time and their civic duties,” he said. Meanwhile, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton told the Magazine that works are in progress to ensure the programme becomes available countrywide. “Our main aim in all of our youth programmes, whether it is the National Cadet Corps or whether it is the National Youth Service, is to help our
Cadets of North Ruimveldt Secondary during a classroom session
the students. For two hours after school, twice per week, the Cadets are exposed to subject areas such as first aid, physical education, dexterity, foot drills, music, Mathematics, English, Spanish and Portuguese. After every six months, the students undergo the Cadet Leadership and Proficiency Examination which determines whether they are promoted from one rank to the next. Speaking with GPM Training Officer, Major Eon Murray, he told the Pepperpot Magazine that youths who successfully complete the programme have more to gain than the eventual graduation parade and attendance certificate.
youths in general, both in and out of school, to…further their academic studies, get gainful employment or go into entrepreneurship systems,” he said. Although the GNCC caters for students, it also welcomes
the participation of out-ofschool youths. These youths need not worry about financial constraints as Murray explained saying: “This programme does not require any extraordinary financial investment by the parent or guardian. “The uniforms are provided through budgetary allocation by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). If there is a requirement to travel out of town for a camp or training; transportation, meals and accommodation will be provided by Guyana Defence Force (GDF).” During the upcoming school break the Cadets will have their first camping experience lasting for one week which will also allow for networking opportunities. But even bigger plans are in store as Murray revealed that through collaboration with the Caribbean Cadet Association, GNCC could soon participate in or even host some of the organisation’s calendar of activities. Murray’s long-term vision is to see the programme become a permanent feature in each school, along with legislations enacted to safeguard its continuity. Telling of his personal experience thus far, he said: “The most uplifting part is
when I visit the schools on the programme and I witness the instructors hard at work and the enthusiasm shown by the Cadets during the training. Although some instructors appear overwhelmed, the majority of instructors are hardworking and committed,” he said. Speaking further on the matter, he remarked: “I recognise that investing the time now in our youths is the right step. I embrace the vision of His Excellency to mould our youths while preparing them for the future. “Being a Training Officer for most of my career I understand some of the challenges the Cadets will experience in a semi-regimented environment. The onus is on the instructors to be professional while, at the same time, parents need to support their children on the programme.” Still in its infantile stage is the country’s National Youth Service/Corp which is now being put forward as a green paper in cabinet, and a technical working group has been identified to assist in making it a reality. Norton says that it will be geared mainly towards skill training and making youths employable even as the country’s oil and gas industry rapidly approaches.
Cadets during Guyana’s Independence Day celebration this year
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
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The profundity behind Art
Guyana gradually moving toward the world stage By M Margaret Burke COCONUT leaves and lucky beads were two of the most essential materials used by Natasha David in making a set of three dolls; one of her more famous artistic pieces done recently. Each one of the dolls is well adorned in their own fashion and style. She made them beautiful and seemed quite happy in their own individual attire – fully clothed in coconut leaves. One doll’s dress is made of cleverly organised red lucky seeds; while the last doll is majestically attired in tibisiri, trimmed by lucky seeds and coconut leaves. Both are decked with hats made of coconut leaves, tibisiri straw and cotton thread.
SO WHERE DID THE ARTIST GET THESE AND ALL HER OTHER IDEAS FROM?
David, who has been into art and craft for over nine years, said that she never went to school to learn how to do all the things she now does. “My artistic education came from inspiration from ‘on high’. I never went to school to learn how to do these things and with my mother being an Am- erindian lady, it gave me the urge to create many of the indigenous things I am now putting out there,” she told the Pepperpot Magazine. She stated that because of her love for the Art, she started with what she considered to be the smaller, less challenging things. “I started with dolls and then I began to see the need for clothing – not only for the dolls, but also clothing that people would wear. Not long after, I also saw the need for accessories to go with the clothing and I started adding these to the pieces of craft I was making. Now I am only getting stronger with all these items,” she stated.
SUPPORTIVE FAMILY
David is a wife and mother. While working hard to satisfy the needs of her husband and son and also managing a home, she strives to balance it with the demands of her business. She was proud to state that her husband and son are also very supportive of what she is doing. “In fact, my husband is also an artist and while he would do his own things,
Model Tesha Northe
he is very helpful to me in ensuring that I get the job done and that my demands are met. I have a very supportive family,” she said. With so many a r t and craft exh i bitions around the world Guyana is not to be and David, with ery opportunity she gotten, said done everyto ‘show-off’, pieces, but the Guyana as
these days, left behind each and evhas so far that she has thing possible not just her beauty of well.
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By Indrawattie Natram IF one were to traverse the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region, they would find many communities with rich legacies and historical significance. One such community is Queenstown, Essequibo. Nestled between the closely-knit villages of Little Alliance and La Union, this is a beautiful, well-populated and family-oriented village which was named on September 25, 1841 after Queen Victoria. Existing for approximately 178 years, Queenstown is probably the largest and oldest community on the Essequibo Coast with the greatest number of historic buildings that still stand tall. Interestingly, what makes this village even more famous is the St Bartholomew Anglican Church that was constructed in 1849 and was originally a coffee logie. This historic building is located in the middle of the village and was built by the slaves themselves. According to the villagers, the building was once a primary school. The village is divided into three sections: Mocha,
West Field and Dageraad within which are located three plantations, first owned by Mr Carberry, the first slave owner to purchase a plantation in then Brit-
the Anglicans. In 1892, Queenstown boasted a fully elected local government with overseers, and in 1961 the normal educational institute was established by Edwin Burnett. Today, the community is fully equipped with several modern amenities, including a community centre, health centre, post office, village office, play field, a primary school, a nursery school, the popular Urbayne Oasis Hotel and lots of pubs. The community is also equipped with a recently commissioned ICT hub which affords residents and school children access to the internet. Persons are utilising the hub for their own benefit and some are even using it to seek em-
ployment.
MEMORIES GROWING UP IN QUEENSTOWN
Clyde Fortune, a pastor from Queenstown recounted life growing up in the village. Although Pastor Fortune currently resides in the United States of America, he has fond memories growing up in Queenstown and recounted the togetherness that villagers shared in the past. “Life growing up in Queenstown was amazing and wonderful, we had such fellowship and relationships, mingling together, playing the game of cricket and making bats from
ish Guiana. At the end of the apprenticeship period, slaves pooled their resources and purchased lands in the three areas. History has shown that in 1847, the Queenstown Village Council was formed where persons worked tediously to build a strong economic base through Agriculture.
DEVELOPMENT
The St Bartholomew Anglican Church
coconut branches and the monkey-apples tree wood,” Fortune fondly remembered. He said in the past children would gather at Cow Dam in the village to take a bath in the black
Twenty-nine-year-old Diane Innis Fisher.
Pastor Clyde Fortune Queenstown
Children in the village began to receive a firm education in 1849 by efforts of
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
The Anglican Church Hall where the slaves met and prayed in the olden days
water trenches. He also said that during the moonlight he recalled elders in the village gathering the children around “Broad Street” area to retell slavery stories and make jokes. The pastor said he would give anything to relive such fun days. Fortune migrated after serving the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and lived in Antigua and St Maarten before moving to the USA where he now serves as a man of God.
Cromwell Mentis, a community leader, photographer and drummer said that he is proud to live in such a closely-knitted community. He said that over the past 16 years there has been tremendous progress from muddy dams to asphalt roads. He noted, too, that the community has managed to keep up-todate with technology and that the youths are enjoying many recreational opportunities with the recently established “Hard Court”. He said that employment opportunities are created within the village through many cottage industries, including the most recently established Juice and Power Shake Factory. Mentis, however, hopes that more jobs would be created for the young people since the community also suffers from brain drain, with the majority of youths venturing in the interior to take up mining. Twenty-nine-year-old Diane Innis Fisher also recalled that whenever there is an Emancipation Day programme, there would be a week of activities organised by the Queenstown Development Association. She said persons from various communities used to visit Queenstown and that the children would be heavily involved in the event. Fisher wishes that such golden days could be relived and children in today’s society can experience same. All in all, many residents feel the same pride and joy as they reminisce on the memories of growing up in Queenstown and are pleased with the developments that have taken place over the years. They look forward to even more developments that are likely to take place as time goes on.
The Methodist Church in the area
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
Food for the Poor observes 27th Anniversary
FOOD for the Poor Guyana Inc (FFP), last Saturday celebrated its 27th Anniversary as a Not-for-Profit organisation doing humanitarian works in Guyana, with a Fundraising Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Savannah Suites, Pegasus Hotel Guyana. Held under the theme:“Saving Lives; Transforming Communities; Renewing Hope”, the forum which also had a segment of slideshows, was tangible evidence of the organisation’s goal to reach out to meet the needs of deserving people across Guyana. Not only is distribution done at the central level (FFP’s headquarters at Blue Mountain Road, Festival City Georgetown), but executives and
other staff practically journey to the ends of Guyana where the needs are most profound to effect distribution. Guest speaker at the evening’s proceedings was Chief Medical Officer (ag), Dr. Karen Campbell who spoke in the absence of Minister of Public Health, Dr. Volda Lawrence. The chairman’s remarks were delivered by Chairman of Food for the Poor, Guyana Inc., Mr. Paul Chan-a-Sue while Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Kent Vincent presented the tokens to the awardees. There were six awardees, namely: Mr. John Alves; Troy Cadogan of Ansa Mc Al; Ming’s Products and Services; Sterling Products Ltd; P. Singh and Sons
Contracting Services; Lionel Ferdinand and Ms. Arianne Quintin. Delivering the welcome, Vincent stated that it has been 27 years since Food for the Poor officially launched its operations in Guyana and remarkably, with a visionary Board of Directors, wonderful hard-working and committed staff, the organisation continues to make great strides in its efforts to assist the poor and needy.
PROJECTS Touching briefly on FFP’s projects over the years, he said they have included wells and water, animal husbandry, tilapia farming, livestock rearing, shade-houses, solar electrification projects, building of boats,
homes, schools and community centres among others.
HEALTH CARE COLLABORATION The CEO placed emphasis on FFP’s mission of Improving Health Care through collaboration. In this regard, he said that FFP, over the years has expanded collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, district hospitals, numerous health centres, noting that approximately 454 containers of medical equipment, medical supplies and pharmaceuticals were received and distributed to these entities. FFP also has the full support of the Ministry of Public Health and the Drug Administration and Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Board.
And commendably, with its wheelchair programme, the organisation has worked with the Ptolemy Reid Rehab Centre and hospitals around the country to bring relief to those in need of wheelchairs. To date, the organisation has distributed more than 1500 wheelchairs across the country and is expecting another shipment of more than 500 wheelchairs soon.
OUTREACH AND DISTRIBUTION The CEO said that FFP’s outreach and distribution continue to expand as it seeks to meet the needs of the poor, not only in the regions close to Region Four but also in the hard-toreach areas. On an average per
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month, the FFP’s distribution is channeled through more than 100 groups and churches (inclusive of other NGO’s), schools; public hospitals and health centres around the country, through 18 committees set up in various regions. There are many individuals who also write or visit the office seeking assistance. Several geriatric homes are also assisted on a monthly basis with needed supplies. And expressing gratitude to God, the guests and other local supporters of FFP for their ongoing support, the CEO acknowledged that Food for the Poor Guyana Inc. continues to be Turn to page XXIII ►►►
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LGBT and Mental Health TODAY I would like to talk about the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. Last weekend, the LGBT coalition held Guyana’s first Gay Pride Parade and despite receiving some undeserving backlash, it was a huge step forward for our people. It was considered a success where hundreds of people gathered to support gay rights, end discrimination and bring overall awareness to what the LGBT community still has to unfairly endure. It’s no secret that this specific community is subjected to much discrimination and stigma within our society. It would also be unfair to say that this happens
only in Guyana as in many countries, it is still illegal for LGBT individuals to get married, adopt children, donate blood and be leaders of certain community organisations. In rightful retaliation, the LGBT community comes together in a united front to celebrate pride, sexuality, diversity and the strength that comes with being exactly who you are. This is sadly still needed around the world to offset homophobia against all groups, society’s pressure to conform and to obtain and maintain equal human rights. It is sad that in 2018, a large number of LGBT individuals still have to hide their true sexuality and therefore, their true identity;
that they still have to overcome much negativity and
hatred. I think the biggest issue is the lack of understanding about the community. I don’t typically blame all
Guyanese because having lived in a few different countries myself, I’m aware that we are not exposed to much in Guyana, members of the LGBT being no different. There are quite a few reasons why people are gay. These reasons may include biology/genetics, personality, culture or even traumatic life experiences. The majority of my clients explain to me that being gay is not a choice while very few have told me it is for them, based on sexual abuse from the opposite sex. However, for the majority, for as long as they can remember, they have been attracted to the same sex without a choice, just as I am attracted to the opposite sex. We all know
that most of the time, we can’t choose who we love. I decided to do some research and there were many studies that have determined biological reasons why people are gay. They go in depth about male proteins on Y (male) chromosomes and honestly, it’s a bit hard to understand. However, we don’t really have to understand it; we just have to accept and respect it as someone else’s makeup. I reviewed a study done in the United States which discovered that LGBT Americans have higher rates of mental disorders than non-members. Again, I look forward to the day where we take the time to generate these kinds of statistics in Guyana. For now, this is
what we have. The study revealed that depression rates were six times higher in gay individuals than straight ones. LGBT youth were four times more likely to have mental disorders and three times more likely to attempt suicide. I want to make it clear that being gay does not equate to stress, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. However, the victimisation, lack of support, hate, pressures of conforming and living a double life can. These factors can also cause school drop-out, heavy alcohol/ drug use, low self-esteem, self -hatred and being subject to bullying. It’s absurd Turn to page X ►►►
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Sensitive teeth HAVE you ever experienced dental pain when you eat or drink anything sweet or sour, or when the food is hot or cold? It is a common occurrence and most people that this has happened to will describe it as a “shocking” pain. If the answer is yes, then you are among the 60,000 Guyanese adults who suffer from dentine hypersensitivity. Dentine is a mineralised tissue transected from pulp chamber (at the centre of the tooth) to enamel or cementum by minute tubules. Within the tubules are protoplasmic projections (‘tentacles of cells) with the cell body itself being located in the pulp chamber. Stimulating these cells emits one sensation, pain. There are currently four hypotheses of pain transmission through dentine, of which the hydrodynamic theory is the most widely accepted. According to this theory, the movement of fluids within the dentine and pulp stimulates the nerves causing pain. All external stimuli translate into hydrodynamic changes that alter the pupal equilibrium and elicit pain. Pain can be caused mechanically, chemical, thermal (temperature) or bacterial, stimuli. Stimulation sources may include tooth brushing, digital (finger) probing, desiccation (a blast of air), acids, sweet, sour, hot and cold products and acids products from plaque bacteria. There are varied predisposing factors to dentinal hypersensitivity, but no single cause. The tooth becomes sensitive after enamel loss or root surface exposure. Enamel loss follows mechanical wear (biting surface wear), neck abrasion or possibly both flexures after grinding, which fractures enamel rods or chemical erosion (acid foods or stomach regurgitation). Gingival recession (retracting gums) and subsequent tooth root exposure allow more rapid and extensive exposure of dentinal tubules because the cementum layer overlying the root surface is thin and easily removed. The many causes of gingival retraction include normal aging, chronic periodontal disease, abnormal tooth position in the dental arch, periodontal surgery, incorrect tooth brushing habits and root preparation for crowns. All of the precipitating factors allow the exposure of dental tubules which create the conditions for dentine hypersensitivity. Treatment modalities fall into two main categories: chemical and physical. All available treatments work to differing degrees depending on the treatment and severity of the patient’s hypersensitivity. Pain is extremely subjective so that effective treatment often depends on the individual’s pain threshold. Some agents can be used at home; others require a visit to the dentist. Chemical desensitising agents can be sub-classified by their action, anti-inflammatory, protein precipitating and tubule blocking. Corticosteroids, one of the many groups of chemical agents, have been used topically for their anti-inflammatory effects, but are not particularly effective. The second group of chemical agents, the protein precipitants, includes silver nitrate and zinc chloride. Silver nitrate was widely used in the past. Unfortunately, both substances cause teeth to stain permanently and are harmful to the gums and pulp. Strontium chloride and formaldehyde (in Sensodyne) belong to the group of agents that precipitate proteins within the tubule. Other drugs used to treat the condition include calcium hydroxide, fluoride, and sodium citrate. Patients may also be treated with composites (fillings), resins, varnishes, sealants, soft tissue grafts, glass ionomer cement and laser sealing of tubules.
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LGBT and Mental ...
that simply being a part of this community comes with less job and sponsorship opportunities as well as serious family dysfunction and the fall of many relationships, which very often leads to homelessness in Guyana. These individuals are also often subjected to hostility and harassment which causes many to live in fear within our society. I hear many people argue “they can’t get married, so what? It’s not a big deal”. Without really focusing on what this means, I would be inclined to agree but it would be to everyone’s benefit if we really understood what is being taken away from an entire community. In most parts of the world, marriage is a sacred union that enforces a life partnership in the legal sense. It allows for a formal and
open proclamation of love and security. However, what about the other benefits? Marriage brings about new laws and rights for immigration, financial security and protection, family rights and most importantly, health care and insurance.These rights are therefore all denied to same-sex couples who can never wed. This is only one example of what is being denied to this specific community. While writing this article, I asked a few of my clients what, in their opinion, is the hardest part about being a member of the LGBT community in Guyana. Not surprisingly, everyone had the same response- the stigma, discrimination and the lack of education and understanding on the topic. A few expressed loneliness as they feel it impossible to have a
healthy or open relationship within our society. Others even consider leaving Guyana for a life without all of the above. However, this really doesn’t have to be the case. For those of who you experience slander and negativity, stay strong, realise that you are not alone and reach out for help. If you would like someone to talk to, make contact with the following organisation. Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) SASOD is a non-profit organisation in Guyana with intention of ending all forms of homophobia in Guyana as well as decreasing mental health issues faced by LGBT Guyanese. They encourage individuals to come into their centre, talk to a staff member, in order to work
out the best possible solution for each individual. Address for SASOD: 169 Charlotte Street, Georgetown, Guyana. Telephone number: 2257283 Or visit their website at http://sasod.org.gy/ I want to briefly mention the transgender community in Guyana. To those who are not aware, a transgender is an individual who recognises their gender identity as different from their assigned sex. I don’t think I have to go into detail about how difficult this must be, especially in an intolerant community. Support groups for
transgender persons living with HIV as well as those who have attempted suicide are offered by the Guyana Trans United organisation. Give them a call at 2314703. Now, my favourite question – is this stigma and lack of opportunity a problem for just the individual or the entire community? As I mentioned, in many places, LGBT members are not allowed to donate blood, to adopt children, and even sometimes, to be community leaders. Not to mention, an intolerant society increases migration and reduces immigration and tourism.
◄◄◄ From page VIII
How does this not affect our entire society? It is my hope that we can all accept and respect our own. Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@ gmail.com Or come in to see me at: Georgetown Public Hospital: Psychiatric Department: Monday- Friday – 08:00hrs-12:00hrs Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 6007896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!
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Beat Plastic Pollution:
If you can’t reuse it, refuse it
WORLD Environment Day was observed recently under the theme: “Beat Plastic Pollution: If you can’t reuse it, refuse it.” The observance served as an indicator (if not a reminder) about the grappling issues of plastic use and the ramifications this has for the environment. Plastic is a versatile material; can be shaped into many forms, it is incredibly durable and pretty inexpensive. Simultaneously, plastic can also be found almost everywhere, from water bottles and surface coverings to clogging waterways and suffocating marine life. Get the picture? Globally, it is estimated that 8.3 billion tonnes of virgin plastic have been produced to date and as of 2015, there have been about 6.3 billion tonnes of plastic waste generated (BBC, 2017). In observance of World Environment Day this year, UN Secretary General António Guterres noted, “Our world is swamped by harmful plastic waste; every year, more than eight million tons end up in the oceans.” Guterres also highlighted, “Microplastics in our seas now outnumber stars in our galaxy.” Scientists average that there are about 100 billion stars in our
galaxy, so the oceans clearly have their fill of plastic. And if present trends continue, the earth’s oceans will have more plastic in the oceans than fish by 2050. World Earth Day was also observed earlier this year under the theme, “End plastic pollution”, underscoring the need to initiate the conversation on plastic use and its indiscriminate disposal. These international observances might only be once a year but they are promoted with the hope that the messages shared and the sentiments advanced, echo throughout the rest of the year. The main message this year is simple; plastic has been touted as a beneficial material to mankind but the time has come where it must be gradually abandoned. A major push factor is that plastic is a non-biodegradable material. It does not decay and decompose, or it takes far too long to do so. When you combine this property with the occurrence of pollution, you have waterways being filled with a material that will not easily break down, a material that will just remain there. Plastic is detrimental to the environment and efforts are being made to reduce the quantity of plastic being produced everyday
by promoting the use of reusable mediums instead. Guyana has been recognised as a small nation with a fervent drive to push the frontiers of environmental conservation and protection. As such, the country wasted no time in weighing in on the conversation of plastic pollution and abandoning single-use plastics. In April, Minister of State Joseph Harmon posited that steps had been initiated to address the scourge of plastic pollution impacting the environment. To this end, he announced that a document proposing the ban on single-use plastics had been introduced to the cabinet. These “single-use” plastics are those common everyday plastic beverage bottles, bags, straws and alike that are disposed of after only being used once. If given cabinet’s blessing and later garners support from members of Parliament, the ban would entail gradually decreasing the imports of single-use plastics and completely banning them in 2021. Through this, single-use plastics will be replaced with items that can be reused and that are biodegradable. Additionally, steps have
already been introduced along these lines. Minister Harmon noted, too, that few of the major supermarkets in Guyana have subscribed to the initiative of decreasing the number of plastic bags being used daily. And with the relatively recent environment levy, beverage companies have been encouraged to reuse and recycle their bottles. The impetus from the state-level is not enough. Governments can implement effective policies but citizens have the responsibility to adhere to
these and to take up the mantle themselves to foster the conservation of the environment. Single-use plastics can be eliminated from daily life by replacing them with reusable options. Using cloth or paper bags when shopping is a small change that can have an overwhelming impact. Opting to recycle and reuse plastic bottles is another. Importantly, proper disposal of garbage is critical. Plastic is covering the earth rapidly. It is covering the land and infiltrating the earth’s wa-
ters. The material is undoubtedly useful but has negative ramifications for the environment. Critical to the conservation of the earth as we know it, is cognisance of the harmful effects each of man’s actions has, and the use of plastic is no exception. There are small, unnoticeable changes that can replace plastic use and can function mitigate the scourge of plastic pollution. Environmental conservation must be high on our agendas at all times.
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#SupportCreativity
By Subraj Singh
Walking in Georgetown at Midday after Six Months Photo by: Ian Mackenzie
CREATIVE people need stimuli. There has to be something that stokes creativity, something that fosters the creative instincts of the artist. Usually, this thing has to do with experiences, whether experiences with other people or experiences with nature. What happens when we are devoid of these sorts of experiences? What happens when we shut ourselves away from the world, when we change jobs, when we move out, when we choose to live alone, away from family and friends? What happens when we maintain a cycle built on limited experiences – whether it means doing shopping late at night or having food delivered daily rather than going out into world? Does the creative process still work? Does it even still exist when we blind ourselves to people and the world and experiences? For almost a six months, I have been shut away in this manner, my actions of self-inducing-solitude, brought on by a series of elements, including depression, needing to be away from my life, and my sordid attempt at independence. In all of this time, my creative writing has suffered rather than improved. I’ve wallowed in my own self-pity and I’ve spent too much time in the darkness – both literal, as well as in the darkness of my own gloom. There is not for creativity with such a mindset. Whoever came up with the notion that the idealized writer is the one who sits in darkness, in his home, typing away at a computer? There is simply no truth to it. It is ironic that writers are viewed as solitary creatures, when, in fact, solitude itself seems to be counter-productive to the creative process. I once knew someone who said “I can only do my [artistic] work when I’m happy” or something to that effect, and I’ve realized in my six months of hibernation there is a truth to this. Writers do not need misery to write. Writers do no thrive on sadness. In fact, the truth seems to be the exact opposite. I think worse than this sort of self-imposed solitude, is the kind that people have no control over. Sometimes, being sad is a luxury – at least when compared to writers and other creatives who are so busy with children and work and trying to provide for their families that their artistic selves are left to punish in a solitude that is not always visible to the world, a solitude that in some ways can be more damaging than the self-imposed kind, a solitude that stifles the muse forever and brings an end to creativity. It is with these thoughts in my mind, along with my self-resentment and fear over the lack of writing output in the
past year or so that I made a conscious decision to step out of the house and spend some time walking around central Georgetown, the way I used to when I was in my early twenties, at university, with more time, that seemed like not a lot of time back then, than I do now. I was less sad, less aware of pressures and expectations. Exploring the city by foot was therapeutic and, in fact, was crucial to the writing of all the stories that appeared in my Guyana Prize-winning manuscript, “Rebelle and Other Stories.” In that manuscript, there are stories set on Church Road, at the seawall, at the bus park by Demico, etc. The places that I saw, that are enshrined in the consciousness of the Guyanese people as a collective, the places that formed our world, that make contemporary Guyana what it is, is what I wanted to showcase in my stories. With all of this in mind, with the memory of how the streets and the sky and the waves of the sea inspired me and my writing – not my small, untidy apartment – I set out into the streets once more, to see how it would feel, to see if I could find any more of those fragments of inspiration that were strewn across my paths when I was younger. It was like walking into a whole new world. I had forgotten what sunlight felt like on my skin. I had forgotten the smells of old books in the National Library and the smells of new books in Austin’s Book Store. I saw a larger heron striding through the drain that ran on Camp Street and I remembered the time a crow flew into my head when I was a teenager (a moment still to be used in a piece of writing). I recalled the tight, busy traffic of Georgetown streets and the difficulty of crossing, sometimes. I remembered my fascination with finding the buildings around town that retained their Dutch architecture and touch of breeze against my face and the twinge of sweet pain in my legs that came from too much walking. Most importantly, I noticed the Guyanese people: the school girls still in uniform who were clearly skipping school, the fat vendors sitting at street corners with their baskets of pickled fruits, the vagrants who still slept on pavements, the ladies in aprons who sold me my lunch, the coconut water man with his cart laden with coconuts, the policeman strolling along briskly, the taxi driver who tried to engage me in conversation – a range of people who, doing nothing besides being themselves, are enough to wipe away my gloom from the past months, at least temporarily.
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What you need to know about lemons THIS week NAREI in Focus will begin a series on growing lemons. In Guyana, lemons (Citrus limon) are produced mostly for the domestic fresh fruit and juice markets. Grafted trees begin bearing fruit within three years after transplanting. The lemon fruit has a relatively long postharvest life in comparison with other types of citrus. Harvest Maturity Indices The most commonly used non-destructive indices of harvest maturity are peel colour and size. Lemons may be picked either at the dark green colour stage or when the peel has started to turn yellow. Fruit picked at the dark-green stage have the longest postharvest life, but generally, have not reached their maximum juice content. Fruit left on the tree to turn slightly yellow will have higher juice content, but a shorter market life. Export market lemons should have at least some yellow colouration of the rind at harvest. Fruit size may also be used to determine harvest maturity. Lemon fruit with a diameter less than 5 cm (two inches) are generally not sufficiently developed and have less than the desired juice content. Fruit intended for export should meet or exceed the minimal diameter of 5 cm and pickers should carry a wire ring of this diameter as a reference guide to avoid harvesting undesirably small fruit. Juice volume is the most commonly used internal index for determining harvest maturity. Random samples of fruit of similar size are harvested and the juice content is measured. The generally
accepted standard for proper harvest maturity is a minimum juice content of 28Vo by volume. Lemon fruit from the size categories meeting the minimum juice content should be harvested. Harvest Methods Lemons should be harvested by carefully twisting and pulling the fruit from the tree. The button (calyx and disk) needs to remain attached to the fruit. Protruding stems left attached to the fruit should be removed with a pair of clippers to avoid puncture damage of adjacent fruit in the harvest container. Careless picking that results in plugging, i.e., part of the rind pulls loose from the fruit, is unacceptable. Avoid rough harvesting practices which result in fruit bruising. Never shake the tree to harvest the fruit. Any fruit which falls to the ground is likely to be severely bruised and subject to postharvest decay. The harvested fruit should be carefully put into padded field crates, well ventilated plastic containers, or picking bags. Ladders may be needed to facilitate harvesting of fruit borne on tall trees. Lemons should be put in a shaded area as soon as possible after harvest. The use of large non-ventilated synthetic sacks as harvest containers should be discouraged. These sacks do not provide protection to the fruit against compression injury, particularly if they are stacked on top of each other. They also do not allow for dissipation of heat and the lemons inside will be more susceptible to decay, especially if the fruit remains in the sack for several days.
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Caribbean-American Heritage Month Celebrations
I ALWAYS enjoy June in the US because the weather is nice and it is Caribbean-American Heritage Month celebration. There are many events in different cities and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) usually hosts a week of events in New York. Over the years, I keep looking for something transformational from the CTO but it is the same old same old. I was planning to attend RUM
& RHYTHM which is one of the CTO’s events but it was clashing with my book event in New Jersey. I actually make an extra special effort to view TV to observe how much attention is given to these celebrations but there is not much and I am sure radio is not much different. So far, I thoroughly enjoyed two events: the Caribbean Business Connection’s (CBC) Sixth Anniversary featuring a com-
petition for Caribbean Chefs. It was a great networking event and I am thinking about becoming a member. The food was so delicious which tempted me to sample so many dishes. I am not a rice lover but that black rice from Haiti had me real bad and I had repeats (not good lol). Of course, the Jamaican chef who was the first runner-up featured jerk chicken and ackee and salted fish. Doris Rodney
who owns the Hills Restaurant and is Guyanese emerged as the champion. The judges were impressed with her meal that was beautifully presented. When last you had plantain foo foo? She worked magic in the “mata” and it reminded me of my gramma Winnie back in the days. The stewed snapper was the perfect combination according to the judges. I was ecstatic when her name and country were
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Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel
... Inspiring lives through fashion announced and it showed from my reaction. No matter where we are, we should celebrate Guyana every chance we get. Watching my friend standing there displaying the Golden Arrowhead was a pleasant sight and proud moment. The Economic Power Brunch was hosted by the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) in collaboration with the Brooklyn Borough President, Hon. Eric Adams. I attended this event three years ago and
encouraged Caribbean people that unity is more important now than ever. Let the 42 million of Caribbean people leave a strong legacy. A number of Caribbean American Icons and of course a few Guyanese were in the lineup. We have such a strong presence in the Caribbean community and I have no doubt it will get stronger. I had a chance to catch up with Consul General of Barbados, Hon. Donna Hunt Cox. We became friends when I lived in Barbados and she is an inspirational
was very impressed with the work by Dr. Roy Hastick and the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It was very flattering when Dr. Eda Harris-Hastick remembered my name, where I am from and profession. She was elated to hear about my four books and had some encouraging words for me. Mrs Hastick is a Professor and Programme Director at the Medgar Evers College in New York. She is the wife of Dr Roy Hastick and one of the executives of CACCI. Hon. Eric Adams had a very empowering speech and he
woman. I was sitting next to another woman that has impacted my life, Patricia Langford Jordan. She is such a pioneer in many initiatives, including lobbying for the Caribbean Month celebrations years ago. I don’t think we realise how special we are as Caribbean people, and until we do we will not value our significant contributions and demand what is due to us. Looking forward to enjoying the rest of the celebration as we continue to celebrate this journey we call life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.
FILES E S A C COURT
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Delays in cases if not checked…
Could erode public confidence in Justice System
THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), hearing an appeal from Guyana in 2008 commented on the seriousness of delays in the completion of cases and added, “if such delays are not eliminated, public confidence in the justice system in Guyana will surely be eroded.” However, the CCJ dismissed the appeal brought by former policeman Vibert Gibson against his unlawful dismissal by the force. The CCJ found that the appellant had no appeal as of right within the meaning of Section 6 (d) of the Caribbean Court of Justice Act and the appeal lacked merit in any event. During the hearing of the appeal, President de la Bastide said, “Before concluding this judgment we feel obliged to comment on the fact that this case was originally filed in July 1989. The High Court proceedings were not concluded until November 2004, more than 15 years after the case was filed. Undoubtedly, there must have been reasons for this but we can think of none that could justify a delay of that order. If such delays are not eliminated, public confidence in the justice system in Guyana will surely be eroded, President de la BASTIDES had said. The facts of the case disclosed that by letter of 30 June 1989, the appellant Gibson was discharged with immediate effect from the Guyana Police Force on the grounds that his discharge was desirable in the public interest. He brought proceedings against the Attorney General alleging that his removal from the force was unconstitutional null and void and claiming damages for loss of salary pension and gratuity. He contended that he was entitled to the total compensatory package he would have earned had he remained in the force until he had reached the age of retirement and that the court should make no allowance for the possibility of his mitigating his loss. In 2004, the High Court found that the appellant had been unlawfully dismissed and awarded damages equivalent to 24 months salary. The Court of Appeal upheld that judgment but allowed the appeal to the extent of ordering the State to pay to the appellant the pension to which he was entitled based on his 20 years’ service in the force. The appellant appealed to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). The Court invited submissions from counsel as to whether in all the circumstances the appellant had an appeal as of right within the meaning of Section 6 (d) of the Caribbean Court of Justice
Act 2004. The CCJ held that the appellant had no appeal as of right within the meaning of Section 6 (d) of the Caribbean Court of Justice Act and the appeal lacked merit in any event. In order to found a right of appeal, the appellant had to establish that the proceedings were concerned with the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred upon the High Court relating to redress for the contravention of the provisions of the Constitution for the protection of fundamental rights, in accordance with Section 6 (d). The instant action was one for unlawful dismissal and not one seeking constitutional redress for the infringement of a fundamental right. The claim was not presented as a breach of a fundamental right, nor could it seriously be suggested that the appellant had a fundamental right to salary and pension as if he had continued in his post until his attainment of the relevant retirement age. Accordingly, the appeal would be dismissed. The appellant, Vibert Gibson, filed a notice of appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice, from the decision of the Court of Appeal Guyana in proceedings arising from the unlawful dismissal of the appellant from the Guyana Police Force. The respondent to the appeal was the Attorney General of Guyana. The Caribbean Court of Justice invited written submissions from Counsel Benjamin Gibson for the appellant; the A.G. and Trishala Prsaud for the respondent on whether the appellant had an appeal as of right within the meaning of Section 6 (d) of the Caribbean Court of Justice Act. Delivering the judgment of the C.C.J President de la BASTIDE said the appellant was discharged from the police force by letter dated 30th June 1989, with immediate effect on the ground that his discharge was desirable in the public interest. He filed suit the following month against the Attorney General alleging that his removal from the force was unconstitutional null and void and claiming damages for loss of salary, pension and gratuity. The appellant appeared to take the view that he was entitled to the total compensatory package he would have earned had he remained until he reached the age of retirement and that further, the court should make no allowance for the possibility of his mitigating his loss. After a trial the court held that the appellant had been unlawfully dismissed. The appellant was awarded damages equivalent to 24 months salary. The appellant appealed. The Court of Appeal (Claudette Singh, and Justices of Appeal Kissoon and Chang) upheld the judgment of the
Trial Court but allowed the appeal to the extent of ordering the State to pay the appellant the pension to which he was entitled based on his 20 years’ service in the force. The appellant was given leave to appeal as of right to this court. The President added, the facts of this case and the circumstances in which an appeal
as of right was filed, resemble very closely those in the case of Yasseen v A.G. of Guyana [2008] CCJ 3 (AJ), 72 WIR 317, in which this court delivered a written judgment on 26th March 2008. Adopting the same course as we followed in Yasseen’s case, we required counsel for the appellant to provide us with
written submissions on the issue whether the appellant was invited to appeal as of right. Those submissions were filed and having read them, we can see no reason to alter the view we took in Yasseen’s case namely, that there is no right of appeal and that the appeal in any event lacks merit and should be dismissed.
By George Barclay
The President added, “We consider that the identical reasoning applies to this case. Accordingly we strike out this appeal and for the same reason we declined to order costs in Yasseen’s case, namely that the respondent played no part in the striking out of the appeal, we would make no order as to costs here.”
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018
The Mighty Rebel Laid to Rest By Francis Quamina Farrier LIKE myself, the Mighty Rebel was born in Charlestown, Georgetown. His arrival was on November 7, 1945, some seven years after my own arrival in this world. Rebel was registered officially as Geoffrey Phillips at birth. At a
very tender age, his parents moved with him to Goed Fortune on the West Bank of Demerara. There, he got his early formal education at La Retraite Church of Scotland School. The musical talent of Geoffery Phillips began to blossom in a big way very early in life since in 1965
he and a few friends formed a string band which they named “The Hermits.” That entity lasted until 1978. A year later, in 1979, Geoffery Phillips joined the Guyana Calypsonian Association and made his debut as a calypsonian when he entered the Mashramani Calypso Competition that year. It would be
safe to say that “A star was born”: The Mighty Rebel. Regarded as Guyana’s most controversial calypsonian ever, the Mighty Rebel has sung about the hottest political topics and social issues of his day, which most other Guyanese calypsonians never dare to touch. An example is “Desi Yuh Wrong”
which challenged political decisions made by President Desmond Hoyte. As far as I know, that particular calypso by Rebel did not earn him any victimisation from the then president. Here was a calypsonian who became regarded as someone who spoke his mind through the lyrics of his compositions. He was afraid of no one; not even the president. Rebel made his debut as
His fans were overjoyed at his success at finally winning the crown. Their numbers also grew dramatically. Rebel later went on to win four privately organised calypso competitions. During his active years as an entertainer, the Mighty Rebel toured to many cities in the United States and Canada, as well as to Antigua, Barbados, Belize, Cayenne, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago. In
The late Geoffrey Phillips, better known as the ‘Mighty Rebel’.
a calypsonian in 1979 at that year’s Mashramani Calypso Competition, at which he placed fourth. In 1982 he dropped to a disappointing fifth place. Following that result, he then went on and created history in the annual competition by placing second back-to-back for five consecutive years; from 1983 to 1987. He was teased about this, but the ‘Rebel’ was undaunted and used that historic achievement to work even harder to gain the crown. He was inspired to compose one of his most popular songs, “Second Hand Man”, which resulted in him being crowned Mashramani Calypso Monarch in 1988. He was now on top of the Calypso World in his Native Guyana. It was a great example of the saying, “If at first, you don’t succeed, try and try again boy, you’ll succeed at last”.
2007, he was honoured by the Guyana Cultural Association of New York for his distinguished service to the Cultural of Guyana. One of his less known achievements is his Certificate in Communication and Effective Speaking, which was displayed during the period when he produced his Television programme “Culture Talk”, which dealt with many of the burning issues affecting cultural workers and which was broadcast on GWTV Channel 2. In one of my interviews with him, Rebel referred to his wife Juliette as someone who serves as an inspiration to him. With his recent passing, he will be sadly missed not only by his loving wife and close relatives, but also his numerous fans here in Guyana and abroad.
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EVOLUTION OF AND NECESSITY FOR HUMANE TREATMENT OF ANIMALS IN the Western World of today and as an important adjunct to Western Civilisation, the protection of animal species and the treatment of individual animals with kindliness and humanity has become a norm. The raison d’etre of this attitude to species of animals is the realisation that if species are exterminated or allowed to disappear, the ecological balance of nature is harmed and will eventually adversely affect human beings. Also, that the treatment of animals with kindliness and humanity is a civilising force and helps to make man more humane to his fellow man. For instance, if one beats up his horse or donkey or dog or starves such animals, it is inevitable that such actions will manifest themselves in domestic violence or violent criminal activity. The value of the protection and the humane treatment of animals was known and practised in the ancient world. In the Buddhist tradition, for example, in the famous sermon on loving-kindness (the Metta Sutra), Lord Buddha enjoins the world to treat every living being with loving-kindness. And this humane teaching was practised by Buddhist monks, laymen and rulers. For example, the Emperor Asoka whose Empire stretched over the Indian sub-continent and in parts of the surrounding countries had hospitals for birds and other animals. This humane attitude to animals had the sanction of philosophy and metaphysics of these ancient faiths. They understood all life to be one and the life of an animal and a human being was the same, though their minds and bodies may differ. This could be seen if a chicken or animal is to be killed or slaughtered and it realises what is threatening, it begins to wail and beg for its life. And nearer home in Guyana, we could see this ancient wisdom manifested in the funerary (Shraad) ceremonies of the Hindu religion. Towards the end of the ceremony which is done on the 13th day of death, the purohit (priest) allocates food which had been prepared, to the birds of the air, the animals of the field and the creatures of the water and the main mourners take the food outside of the house and symbolically leaves one portion on any open space for the animals of the field, another portion is thrown into any canal or river
for the creatures of the water and the third portion is left on any elevated place for the birds of the air. This symbolic sharing of food is meant to remind people to be caring and respectful to the animal kingdom and to reinforce it with the sanction of religion and spirituality. Guyana is only 400 years old which is a very tiny fraction of the span of human history, and for most of those years it has been subject to violent and inhumane treatment of man and man, and man and animals by the system of Slavery and Indenture. It is only towards the end of the 19th century when Guyana began to develop a profile of its own and the national psyche began to gradually exorcise this culture of violence. At the beginning of the 20th century, there were very few motor-cars, buses and lorries. Most of the transportation of people and goods was done by animal-drawn carts and cabs. Most of the animals used were donkeys and to a much lesser extent, horses and mules. The drivers of these carts very often beat their animals savagely and sadistically, the poor donkeys crying out in great pain. Members of the colonial administration who had come from Britain, a country where the humane treatment of animals had advanced a great way, introduced that ethic and the laws were amended to provide for the protection of animals. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) was established and later became the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) at Independence. The RSPCA and later the GSPCA began to revolutionise the kindly treatment to animals and many cartmen and other citizens were prosecuted for ill-treating their animals. The message of humane treatment of animals was steadily spread until today it is a norm in Guyanese society. The GSPCA is chaired by Mr Oliver Insanally and the staff is mainly young people who are giving voluntary service. They do veterinary services and give homes to cats, dogs and other pets which are brought to the GSPCA facility. They also offer a spay and neuter service to prevent animals from having unwanted pregnancies. Many families have gotten their pets and even guard dogs from the GSPCA. The pets, especially the cats and dogs, bring a great deal of pleasure
and delight to young children who have faithful and friendly companions and many adults discover the pleasure of having such pets. The GSPCA welcomes volunteers at all times and new volunteers would be integrated into a delightful group of people. The GSPCA
facilities are in Robb Street, Georgetown quite close to the Bourda market and the public could choose their pets there without cost. Teachers will do well to introduce the GSPCA to their fifth and sixth form pupils. There are a number of animal rights activists, who
though associated with the GSPCA, act on their own. One of the most known of these is Ms Syeda Manbodh, who at her own expense and use of her own resources has been saving the lives and bringing happiness to many a sick or lost or abandoned ani-
mal. Her name has become a household word and she was recently accorded national recognition and a National Honour. Protecting animals and birds both domesticated and in the wild is one of the most satisfying of human activities.
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World Oceans Day FOR our World Environment Day and Earth Day celebrations, the focus was on putting an end to plastic pollution. For World Oceans Day, another key day on the environmental calendar, the fight against plastic pollution continues. World Oceans Day, celebrated each year on June 8, focuses on encouraging solutions for a healthy ocean.
By now, we should understand the link between plastic pollution and the ocean environment but just to reiterate, once plastics are disposed of in an improper manner, they don’t just stay still. They travel and more often than not, end up in our drains, canals, trenches, creeks, streams, rivers and ultimately, our oceans. Why? Because water bodies are interconnected. While we
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Encouraging solutions for a healthy ocean
usually think of this as a global issue, right here in Guyana, our marine animals feel the impact of plastic pollution. The plight of our sea turtles, especially the leatherback has been well documented. But to elaborate on the issue, here are some additional effects of pollution in our oceans: Entanglement /entrapment Animals are attracted to litter items due to their natural
curiosity or while in search of food or shelter. As a result, they can become trapped and while entanglement / entrapment may not necessarily cause death, it causes torturous pain. Entanglement can also result in the animal not growing normally, as the item can become embedded in the animal’s flesh as it grows around it. “Ghost fishing” So-called “ghost nets” are accidentally lost or deliberately discarded fishing nets that continue to catch fish as they keep on drifting in the sea or along the bottom, often for very long periods.
Their “catch” attracts other fish, mammals and seabirds searching for food, which is often caught or entangled in them, causing a vicious lethal circle. INGESTION Fish, birds and mammals may swallow a litter item accidentally or because it resembles their prey. For example, turtles eat plastic bags mistaking them for jellyfish. Ingestion can lead to starvation or malnutrition if the ingested items fill up their stomach. Sharp objects, e.g., metal and broken glass, can wound the digestive tract
and cause infection and pain. Ingested items may also block the animal’s air passage, and eventually cause its death by suffocation.? BIO-ACCUMULATION Birds of prey and other carnivorous animals have been found with large concentrations of plastics in their stomachs after preying on smaller birds that previously ingested fish with these plastics in them. Marine organisms are also exposed to toxics released from litter items. These toxics either Turn to page XIX ►►►
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Encouraging solutions for ... have a direct effect or bio-accumulate in other animals
feeding on them. For humans who are at the top of the food
chain, the consequences are yet unknown.
ECONOMIC EFFECTS Littered beaches reduce tourism potential. Fewer tourists coming to an area means less income for the coastal communities. Additionally, beach cleanups are costly, especially in remote areas that are difficult to access or lack infrastructure (waste bins, etc.). Damage to livelihoods Fishermen are also affected by marine pollution. Drifting fishing nets and ropes can wrap around propellers, anchors, etc. causing costly or irreparable
damage. Also, the “ghost nets” that continue to trap fish, leave fishermen with smaller catches. As we go forward, we encourage all to make the pledge to keep our oceans free of plastic pollution. It only takes small actions. WHAT CAN YOU DO? ► Use reusable shopping bags ► Choose fresh fruits and vegetables ► Carry your reusable water bottle
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► Avoid products with microbeads ► Refuse single-use plastics ► Choose reusable crockery and cutlery ► 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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Driving a prod through a heal A HEALTHY population and strong healthcare systems are key socio-economic indicators, which translate into happy and productive citizens, who have the physical capacity to contribute to the economic, social and cultural development of their communities and country. Providing adequate health services to the population is a paramount goal for the Government and while public health is the responsibility of the State, it is a matter that cannot be solved by the central government alone. A healthy society must come as part of a combined effort of several stakeholders particularly in the fight against Non –Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which in most cases can be avoided or treated by citizens taking responsibility for their own health. In this week’s Government in Action, we will take a look at what exactly are Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), the risk factors, treatment opportunities available and how personal responsibility can play a significant role in combating these diseases, which remain the number one cause of death in the country.
drinking classes, the smoking classes would know that it is at the level of the President himself that attention will be paid to NCDs and the elimination of NCDs,” the Head of State said. Chief Medical Officer at the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, who sits on this Commission, in an interview with the Public Information and Press Services Unit of the Ministry of the Presidency, said that since its establishment six months ago, the Commission has been meeting regularly to advance awareness, ensure adequate facilities for screening and testing are in place and treatment options readily available. “We have been working on a plan for the Commission. It’s divided into three sections. We have three subcommittees that are looking [firstly] to develop protocols necessary for medical care. Secondly, to look at health advocacy and prevention program. And then the third area is to look at legislative changes because a lot of what is coming out from the global environment is that things like tobacco, well we’ve already passed the Bill, but we still need to do some more work in terms of reducing tobacco consumption and alcohol,” the Chief Medical Officer said.
TACKLING NON- COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Non-Communicable diseases (NCDs) are a growing PROMOTING PREVENthreat in Guyana and the TION AND EDUCATION Caribbean. As a matter of As the popular saying goes, fact, more than half of Guyprevention is better than cure. ana’s adult population suffer Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, Chief Medical Officer, Prevention begins in the home, Ministry of Public Health from one of the four main is reinforced at school and at non-communicable diseases, work and is fortified at the namely cardiovascular disnational, regional and neigheases, diabetes, cancers and bourhood levels. Preventable chronic lung disease. Statislifestyle diseases, which are often characterised by alcohol tics provided by the Ministry of Public Health shows that and drug abuse, the excessive consumption of processed seven out of every 10 premature deaths of Guyanese age and fast food, lack of recreation and sport and sedentary 23-60 are caused by one of these NCDs. The major risk fac- habits have contributed to the increased the incidence of tors for non- communicable diseases (NCDs) are tobacco non-communicable diseases such as cancers, diabetes, heart use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet and the harmful use disease, hypertension and obesity. of alcohol and reducing the numbers affected is the focus The Head of State has noted that while public health of the Government’s work to prevent deaths from NCDs. is a right as mandated by the Constitution of Guyana, the This worrying phenomenon resulted in President Grang- responsibility for tackling these diseases rests not only with er taking action by setting up the Presidential Commission the State but rather personal responsibility must be taken on NCDs, which was launched on December 16, 2017. by every individual and stakeholder. He noted that these statistics should make it clear that the “This is an emergency; we are in a state of emergency prevention and control of non-communicable diseases are and if you ever had a relative who’s suffering from one of essential to ensuring human health and by extension, to these four diseases and you had to dig into your pocket for bringing up healthier children and happier communities. every round of treatment you’d know that we are in a state “The Government of Guyana recognises the importance of emergency. This is a national effort. It is not a Govof combating NCDs and have established a Commission, ernmental effort; it is not a ministerial effort… We must and today we witness the establishment of a Presidential realise that NCDs are not a joke, they’re not fashion, they Commission but it would be impossible to ensure satisfac- are a serious threat to life and a leading cause of premature tory standards of public health unless the highest priority death. NCDs are a pressing problem and unfortunately, was accorded to the prevention and control of NCDs. That the burden falls mainly on the poor. Reducing risk factors, is why I have come here today, to lend my name and my therefore, will not only save lives but will save money,” office so that children everywhere, schools, adults, the President Granger said.
Minister of Public Health, Ms Volda Lawrence at the 2018 Health Expo launch at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, said that her Ministry is committed to doing whatever it can to educate and encourage healthy lifestyle choices among the Guyanese population in an effort to combat NCDs. However, she too noted that citizens must begin to take responsibility for their health. “Guyana can ill afford an unhealthy nation. Guyana is poised for great things but in order for us to be sustainable as a nation, the underlying and key component is wellness. We must change the way in which we embrace and manage our health… We must move from the almost laissez faire attitude to the point where it becomes top priority. The emphasis is because the Ministry wants to work in close collaboration with you to heighten your awareness, educate you on issues, promote lifestyles that will allow us to become the healthiest nation in the Caribbean and the Americas; where our health status can impact significantly
President David Granger and First Lady, Mrs. Sandr Trinidad and Tobago in April, where they u
on the reduction of NCD risks factors. Let us change our lifestyles and add value to life. Let us reach for a better life with good health,” Minister Lawrence said. Many NCDs can be prevented by addressing diet, physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use and making the places we live in health promoting. Promoting healthy diet, physical activity, reduced alcohol use and tobacco use termination are simple and cost-effective measures to reduce premature death and disability from NCDs. Prevention strategies are not only effective tools to protect popula-
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ductive nation lthy population tions against developing an NCD but also for mitigating and reducing the burden of various NCDs. With a rate of 70 percent of the population affected by one of the NCDs, Guyanese must move towards doing more. Dr. Persaud agrees that all citizens must begin to take a personal responsibility for their healthcare and wellbeing. He noted that the development of these diseases is heavily based on common risk factors, the harmful use of alcohol or tobacco, and unhealthy eating and physical inactivity. Based on a survey conducted by the Ministry last year, approximately 190,000 persons are affected by NCDs in Guyana while NCDs account for 80 percent of the premature deaths in the Caribbean. “The persons more at risk are generally Guyanese from all walks of life, from all ethnicity, maybe a little more of some race than others. For example, we see higher rates of diabetes among East Indian population and this is associated a lot of times with excess weight whereas the
ra Granger at at the Good Health Medical Centre in underwent their annual medical check-ups
Afro Guyanese population will see a higher rate of hypertensive diseases. That doesn’t mean that either group isn’t affected by one or the other. These chronic diseases are really associated with lifestyle mainly exercise and diet,” the CMO said. In order to properly combat NCDs, Dr. Persaud said that it is also important that persons educate themselves on the medical history of their families and conduct regular check-ups. President Granger and First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger
have been leading the way in ensuring that they undergo grams per capita. However, in Guyana, the average use is regular medical check-ups, exercise daily and eat right. nine grams per capita. As recent as April, the two underwent a week of medical “For those who are not yet diagnosed, they have to eat check-ups, which showed that they are both enjoying good right and we have a food group which talks about vegetahealth despite their age. bles, carbohydrates, fats. These are the food groups and if The Chief Medical Officer noted that both the young you notice, they are in different proportions. One of the and the old population must undertake to be more active. things that Guyanese like to do is eat a lot of meat and you A good place to start he said is exercising at least five days see the proportion of meat comparison to the others? It’s per week for 30 minutes each day. not a whole lot of meat that we should be eating; we should “You must institute exercise with daily activity to en- include a lot of peas and beans in our foods and vegetables sure that at least five days per week each of us gets thirty as well as fruits. Throughout a day, we should have everyminutes of physical activity. When we say physical activity, thing in the food groups. We may not be able to eat all in we don’t mean just continue doing the work around the one meal but by the end of the day, whatever we eat should home, walking up and down the stairs and so on. We should include from all the food groups. Fats and oils are dangerat least exercise thirty minutes in a way that challenges ous and it’s in limited amounts. Sugar is dangerous and it’s us, we break a sweat as it were in limited amounts and salt. and that we’re able to expend We shouldn’t see the fats in some energy in doing that. We the food, we shouldn’t taste should encourage more sport, the salt, we shouldn’t taste you know, friendly matches the sugars but they are also and mobilise our young men needed in the body. If we and women to come out and overdo anything, it’s just as even the others, the older ones bad as if we under do it so too, to get out and move around we have to strike that baland be physically active,” Dr. ance,” she noted. Persaud said. The Ministry of Health Diet plays a significant role has intensified its work to in combating and reducing the combat the prevalence of risks of NCDs. Chief Dietary NCDs and has been workManager at the Georgetown ing with the Pan American Public Hospital Corporation Health Organisation (PAHO) (GPHC), Ms. Sandra Johnson and World Health Organisain an invited comment with the tion (WHO) to draft policies Public Information and Press and implement programmes Services Unit, said that she to stem the growing numbers stands firmly in the belief that and to lend support to those ‘food is medicine’ and every already affected. Already Guyanese should begin to pay the Ministry has pushed for Ms. Sandra Johnson, Dietary Manager, closer attention to what they the successful passage of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation consume. Tobacco Control Bill and for “Right now in Guyana, a ban in public smoking. more than I’ve ever seen beFurther, the Ministry has fore, food is very important. In the hospital setting, there been mobilising activities such as health fairs and eduare a lot of young people suffering from these NCDs, very cational sessions in various communities. This includes young people and these conditions have long-term com- community-based programmes which directly target the plications when you’re on long-term medication. What at-risk population. It is also reaching out to businesses and patients need to understand, and people generally, is that organisations to allow for screening and awareness sessions food can prevent, it can control and it can even cure these to take place. NCDs if we eat correctly and exercise. Exercise is an imAt the health care level, it offers free screenings and portant factor in it too because if we are going to maintain aftercare, treatment options and dietary tips at the various our body weight, we are going to have all the nutrients that health centres and hospitals across the country. the body requires. As Guyanese, we like to eat too many Additionally, to attract the younger population, sensitifast foods and these fast foods, the way they are prepared sation methods are taking a form through which this group with a lot of fat and a lot of salt and a lot of sugar, which could easily access information, such as social media, text young Guyanese in particular now, have developed a taste messaging and other media. for. We still need the fats, we need the sugar, we need the Even as Government continues to play its part in salts because they all have functions in the body but we ensuring that Non-Communicable Diseases are tackled need to take it in controlled amounts,” Ms. Johnson said. and a healthier nation is built, citizens must also recMs. Johnson noted that attention must be paid particu- ognise that they have an equal and corresponding duty larly to the consumption of sugars, salt and fats and oils as to make healthy lifestyle choices and adopt a sense of these are the elements that increase the risk of Non-commu- personal responsibility for their health and wellbeing. nicable diseases. The recommended dosage of salt is four Diet and exercise are two places to start.
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Food for the Poor observes ...
very dependent on their generosity in order to fulfill its mission to the ‘poorest of the poor’ in Guyana. He, therefore, called upon the supporters - both local and overseas to continue to open their hearts to the poor, affirming: “We cannot over-emphasise the need for support from local companies and individuals as we seek to carry out our mandate: “Service to the poor and needy of Guyana.” HOUSING During the year 2017, 166 housing units were constructed under the General Housing Programme totaling 3,618 housing units since the housing programme commenced.
GIFT OF HOMES FOR TRAFALGAR Meanwhile Chairman Paul Chan-a-Sue commenting on the gift of dwelling houses from FFP to more than 40 families at Trafalgar, West Berbice said that the houses were given to 43 families, stating emphatically that
those houses have been given absolutely free to the families. He pointed out that the houses presented to the families are 17’ x 23’ in dimension; have indoor plumbing and additionally, will be equipped with solar panels. So apart from lights, residents will be able to charge their cell phones.
ABJECT POVERTY And commenting on the environment in which the beneficiaries lived, the Chairman noted that it was one that reflected ‘abject poverty’. He recalled that 95 per cent of those households are headed by women. On an average, there were four children sharing one bedroom with their mother and most of the women did not work. Some of the buildings were dilapidated and were leaning dangerously; others were constructed using zinc sheets and had collapsed. Some had holes in the walls and roof, while others still had an average of three children sharing a bedroom with their mothers. Each of these
stories was substantiated with photographs shown on the slides at the dinner. The Chairman said his visit to Trafalgar told a gruelling story. Pointing to the slides, he commented: “I want to show you some of these people we at Food for the Poor help. You would very unlikely go by yourself to where they live, because in some way, you may be scared.” Lamenting on the conditions that exist in these parts, the Chairman stated: “We worry about crime and … you look at these four-year-olds; five-yearolds and eight-year-olds coming up. What are you going to do in 10 years if we don’t do something for them now?” SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAMMES Another major accomplishment by the FFP was the setting up of a schools’ feeding programmes providing for some 400 schoolchildren in outlying areas with assured ‘hot meals’ on school days. The children are
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drawn from schools in Regions Two, Four and Ten. The chairman outlined that the schools’ feeding programmes are for children who leave in the morning with little or nothing to eat and get nothing at lunchtime. “[Therefore], how can they take in education; and if they don’t have education how are they going to get jobs?” he questioned passionately. Wrapping up, the chairman reiterated that FFP will do its best in the circumstances to bring help to people genuinely in need. It continues to distribute to the church groups, apart from having 15 committees spread out across Guyana. The only regions not served are Region One; Nine and Eight which is experiencing some difficulty due to the con-
Ms. Rosanne Lee as she delivers the opening prayer at Food for the Poor’s 27th Anniversary Fund-raising Dinner at the Pegasus Hotel Guyana, last Saturday. Seated from left at head-table are: Food for the Poor’s Chairman, Mr. Paul Chan-a-Sue; Chief Medical Officer (ag), Dr. Karen Campbell); FFP’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kent Vincent and Emcee, Ms. Tamika Henry.
dition of the road, whenever it rains. The Chairman joined the CEO in expressing gratitude to members of the board; donors
who give selflessly to the organisation; patrons at the dinner, as well as the staff of FFP for their dedicated work within the organisation.
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Guyana gradually moving ... THE PROSPECTS FOR GUYANA
Guyana has its fair share of cultural events throughout the year and David said that she would usually take full advantage of it. “Whenever there is an event people would order all sorts of things – from clothing to accessories for that day. Also, on regular days people also show interest in what I make and I am happy about it,” she
pointed out. She said that as a member of the Guyana Arts and Craft Association, where she is able to meet with other artists, who are excelling in their area of work, she has been able to become more aware of what is taking place in the art and craft arena, not only in Guyana, but also in the Caribbean and around the world. David, who said that she is always proud to
put Guyana on the map whenever the opportunity arises, told of having the chance to attend a number of art and craft exhibitions in Guyana, and other countries such as Barbados, Suriname and Miami. She said many other Guyanese also attend some of these exhibitions and they are all well appreciated wherever they go. In general, art and craft, which continues to be a growing industry in
Guyana, is being advocated as a panacea, which encourages education development. There is one school of thought which says that an artist is usually more i n
love with what he does than with the money he can gain from it. On the other hand, studies have shown that there is a
cor-
Continued from page V relation between the love and exposure to arts and a person’s ability to learn easier. Dr. Kerry Freedman, Head of Art and Design Education at Northern Illinois University said, “Children need to know more about the world than just what they can learn through text and numbers. Art education teaches students how to interpret, criticise and use visual information and how to make choices based on it.” Studies went further to say that the involvement in art and craft provides opportunities for children, in particular, to learn words for colours, shapes and actions; that art education strength-
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Guyana gradually moving ... ens problem-solving and critical-thinking skills and that there is a correlation between art and other
achievements. For David, the creation of art and craft came naturally. “I had a love for it [the art and craft] and I just started doing things,” she
said, while explaining that as she started playing around with dolls – doing things to make them look even more beautiful, eventually she moved from stage to
stage, creating more and more pieces, and then advancing to the level she is at the moment. She is now encouraging young girls and boys, as well as adults
to do whatever they are comfortable with – once it is something good and honest; if possible, make a career out of it and there will be no regrets; you have to work hard
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at it; you have to have big dreams and visions. It is not always easy, but with energy and determination it can be done, she assured. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)
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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
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Merely corroborative detail, intended to give artistic verisimilitude to an otherwise bald and unconvincing narrative.
W.S. GILBERT (1836-1911)
STUDY SUCCESS Dear Students,
IT IS simple to complete some kinds of assignments, while completing others is rather complex. Some problems can be answered by a telephone call, an interview, a glance at the encyclopedia, or a look at the many internet sites. Technical others call for careful and prolonged study in very many sources. Improve how you locate facts for home assignments and projects. Much of your study success depends on a wise choice of information sources. Love you. GRAMMAR A… Using good/ well and bad/ badly correctly NOTE: Good and bad are adjectives. They precede nouns and follow linking verbs. Well can be used as an adjective to mean “in good health.” Otherwise, well and badly as adverbs and can be used to modify action verbs. The Diokrama forest ranger families might look ___ in their longevity ratings. They eat foods grown naturally on their demarcated lands. Do Some Practice Complete each sentence below by adding good, well, bad, or badly. 1. The New Diamond Medical Research Centre recently announced that cocoa butter may be as ____ as coconut fat in restoring skin tissue. 2. One man found out that drinking even one bottle of Guinness stout each day was ____ for his health. 3. Your favourite fast foods filled with red meat and eggs or brimming with sausages and bacon can affect your health ____.
4. Nutrition experts at Princetown University are uncertain about whether people with certain ailments should regularly take vitamin supplements or simply eat ____. 5. At the end of it all the bickerings, James simple prayed: “Lord, get Manda ____”. The good Lord immediately answered his earnest prayer. 6. No patience is _____ for your healing. B… Make the correct selections in the following sentences. Pay attention to clarity and meaning. Explain selections in your study groups. 1. Mr Frank Gorgon (never said, did not say) whether he would be able to attend his second daughter’s wedding overseas. 2. Although these saving bonds were tax-free, they (did not but earn, never earned more than, earned only) 5.6 per cent profit. 3. The church can’t (help but worry, help worrying) about the rising disrespect for women; and the many women who show no respect for themselves. 4. The Modern Languages department (has, hasn’t) scarcely any tutors departing its door. 5. Ms Swavey (did not say, never said) that she was not doing corn rows in her hair at Debbie’s salon any more. GOOD WRITING The ever-present sentence fragments in your writing (This input will shore up last week’s GRAMMAR input.) Reminder: A sentence is a complete thought. It is a group of words that makes an assertion or statement about something or someone. Groups of words that do not
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Expressing herself through literature
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Makeda Braithwaite
Twenty-year-old, Makeda Braithwaite
MYOPIC people usually say writing is not a feasible profession but in reality persons from every profession write every day. Whether a statement, prescription, novel or even a text, it’s still considered as writing. There are persons who write from their heart and those who do it because they have to. A person who holds literature close to her heart is 20-yearold, Makeda Braithwaite. Like persons her age, Braithwaite is yet to find herself but one thing she is sure about is her love for writing and literature in all its forms. “When it comes to writing I’m very competitive with myself and I’m my own worst critic. There’s a massive amount of anxiety associated with my work for me, so I’m always trying to do better and more. I have the uncanny ability to rip my own work to shreds and sink into a sea of hatred in seconds, but I’m a bit vengeful in the sense that I always strive to put those pieces back together and make something new and better,” said the ambitious 20-year-old. She first discovered her creative passion for literature when she was in First Form at the St. Joseph High School where she was guided by her then English teacher, Ms. Cummings. Braithwaite’s interest in
the art grew as she got older and by the time she entered the Fifth Form in high school, she was writing her own poems. “Poetry was the only way I could cope with some intense family issues that I was faced with…I realised there was nothing else in the world I would rather be doing than writing,” she said. The young writer intends to make a career out of literature so she has started to improve her academic knowledge in the field. Braithwaite is a Literature Major at the University of Guyana. As her knowledge and practical experience increase, she hopes one day to have some of her work published. There are many more talented youths and adults who share the same dream so her word of advice to them was to keep writing something every day. “Even if it is a line, a paragraph or a stanza, always keep writing because that’s how you improve and once you master that skill no one can take it from you… People say writing isn’t a feasible profession in Guyana but it is up to you to know that they are simply thinking too small,” she said. And while many persons chide criticism, Braithwaite encouraged them to listen to it and use it as a guide to be better and improve.
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meet this requirement are known as fragments. Very often students unintentionally use fragments instead of complete sentences. Developing “sentence sense” (that is, a feeling for the complete assertion) is essential in good writing. Skillful authors use fragments to make conversations sound natural. “Did you eat the mutton?” “yes, Mandy.” “What for?’ “I was hungry.” Examine the following structures: 1. I finished my HomeWork early last night. (A group of words forming a sentence) 2. Decided to call it quits. (A group of words without a subject) 3. The shop next door
to the Eldorado cinema. (A group of words without a verb or predicate) 4. Good for common breed dogs. (A group of words lacking both subject and predicate) 5. When the volcano calms down. (Group of words forming a dependent clause) Something to Do Which of the following groups of words are sentences? Which are fragments? Tell what is lacking in each fragment. Make this an oral activity in your study group. 1. Shouting profanities at his poor old mother. 2. Once he “gets set,” George has an evil eye. 3. Small, fast men, especially a team of good dribblers, drawing slower, taller men completely out of po-
sition. STUDY HABITS Let’s now devote some talk to study habits. Let study become a habit. Set aside much time for its indulgence. Use study time economically, and see your learning output become progressively greater each successive session. There is a foundational approach to all of this. You must follow these pointers: a) Construct each flexible daily time-table covering all seven days of the week, recognising all areas of study for that week. Your weekly circumstances dictate times concerning travel, eating, household chores, and leisure activities, among other important aspects of daily living. Prepare TT for any suitable period time.
b) Note the size of content for each time-tabled session. c) Let each session have three distinct sections: startup, study, cooling down. d) Use expected and unexpected short breaks constructively; use well for either relaxation or recalling past study; or unravelling a ‘knot’
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT, June 10, 2018 in a study area. e) Plan thirty to sixty minutes for effective routine study, but regard for shorter periods seriously. f) Keep on jotting notes selectively to ‘jerk’ your memory. See if you are a person who applies yourself easier to short bursts of
highly specific study, who writes brief outline notes on revision cards; reorganises notes on specific topics; or draws and labels diagrams. Whatever kind of student you are, start study immediately and continue until very close to examination days.
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