Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot 07-25-2021

Taking it ‘one day at a time’ The farmers of Sandvoort are resilient

Sophia Victor is a resident of Sandvoort Village, East Berbice. The 55-year-old is a farmer who plants cash crops and selling meat birds. In this photo, Victor is making pointer brooms; just one of the many ways she keeps herself busy in the quiet village (Carl Croker photo)

Sunday July 25, 2021

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My walkabout in

By Francis Quamina Farrier

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

‘Little Guyana’ as citizens. That has become more so, since the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York city resulting in many families and business enterprises going under, with some even unable to feed themselves and their families. “We need an institutional system of feeding people,” Albert Baldeo pointed out, noting that there is much pain and suffering at this time, brought on by the rigours of the COVID-19 pandemic. Baldeo has also been vigorously encouraging his fellow Guyanese-Americans to get vaccinated and wear a face mask, since there have been many deaths in “Little Guyana,” attributed to the coronavirus.

There is a US$92 billion

New York City budget, and Baldeo has expressed the view that some of that money should go to assisting small businesses which are now failing due to the pandemic.

Baldeo’s Law Chambers is also on Liberty Avenue.

Reflecting on the early history of Little Guyana and the arrival of the Indian-Guyanese to the area, Albert Baldeo mentioned the hard work done to develop the area, which was somewhat rundown at the time, and the indirect assistance, pointing out, “We are so grateful to the Civil Rights Movement, and of course we celebrate Black History Month because it is on the backs of those heroes, our black brothers and sisters, that our rights are also made, and we must never forget that.” According to him, his ongoing advocacy for the people of Little Guyana, is a “Mission Uncompleted.”

THIS article is about my recent two-hour walkabout in “Little Guyana,” which is located in Queens, New York City. First, let me turn back the clock over half a century to my first visit to New York City, which was in 1969. I did not arrive in New York by the route normally taken by hundreds of thousands of Guyanese over the decades, which is by a flight from Timehri to New York. That first arrival of mine to the Big Apple was by aircraft from Toronto, Canada.

I had just completed a four-week Summer course in Theatre and Journalism at the Banff School of Fine Arts, University of Alberta, in western Canada.

That was made possible by One of the many Guyanese-owned business establishments on Liberty Avenue in a grant from the interna- “Little Guyana,” Queens, New York (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier) tional educator, author and diplomat, Guyana-born of Queens. Some of them Guyana” at an impressive ana” well informed regarding E.R. Braithwaite. During were friends of mine - play- open-air ceremony during their civil and other rights that first visit of mine to wright and poet Rajkumari which a name plaque was Canada, I city-hopped to cit- Singh and her son Gora, mounted. A few weeks after, ies in seven of the country’s the talented dancer. Also, I made that walkabout menprovinces. her daughter Prita, who tioned in the headline of this Arriving in New York, was an equally talented article.

I stayed with a relative dancer. Radio broadcaster Wearing my COVID-19 who resided in a section of Eshri Sing; playwright, mask, and with perfect Brooklyn, which I really did novelist and poet, Sheik weather, I commenced my not fancy. “Asphalt, concrete Sadeek and others, were walk along the well-known and Bricks” is the way I also friends of mine, whom Liberty Avenue for a disdescribed it - meaning the I visited whenever I was in tance of over a mile. It was streets of asphalt, the side- New York. As such, I saw a joy and pride for me, seewalks of concrete and the “Little Guyana” grow from ing all the many Guyanese buildings of bricks. There a “baby” so to speak, into business enterprises, many was no greenery whatsoever the impressive “adult” it is bearing the word “Guyana” in the area where I stayed. today. I have played Phag- in them. Of course, there However, in more recent wah in Little Guyana on are a few signs which state, years, all those streets in three occasions. I attended “GUYANA GOLD.” That’s Brooklyn are now beautiful- the funeral of Gaitri Har- as good as it gets. ly tree-lined. dat, who was shot dead Migrating during the In those very early on Atlantic Avenue by her 1970s to New York, former years, there was no area Guyanese ex-boyfriend, Guyanese magistrate Albert of New York City called who was convicted for the Basdeo is well-known as an “Little Guyana,” but that crime. advocate and community developed when many Earlier this year (2021), leader. The former Queens Guyanese of Indian de- after decades of hard work College student ensures as scent began to migrate in making a stamp of “Guya- best he can, to keep the Guylarge numbers and settled neseness” on the area, it was anese-Americans residing Walking along Liberty Avenue in “Little Guyana,” New York City (Photo by Francis Q. in the Richmond Hill area officially christened “Little in and around “Little Guy- Farrier)

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

‘Seeing patients recover is most fulfilling and rewarding’

By Telesha Ramnarine ALL Aruni Shamnarine needs to help make a difference in someone’s life are her hands and the knowledge she’s acquired while studying over the years.

This is one of the aspects of her job as a physiotherapist that she enjoys the most.

It means that she can be in any corner of the coun-

sional development courses.

Fortunately, challenges are what drive me; I enjoy learning new exciting concepts and techniques every time I go to a course, which in turn help me to assist patients to get back on their feet,” Aruni expressed in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine.

She is the physiotherapist attached to the West Demerara Regional Hospital who is hoping that more persons

her family and a scholarship from the Guyana Government, she started her career in Cuba.

“One of the reasons I enjoy practicing in this field is being able to make a difference in people’s lives whether it is decreasing pain, recovering from an injury, improving range of motion or restoring function; I have seen first-hand the remarkable impact physical therapy

- Region Three Physiotherapist

many persons,” she said.

Every month, approximately 80-85 new patients across all age ranges access the outpatient services that Aruni and her team provide in the department and approximately 15-20 new inpatients in the hospital wards.

They also promote prevention and wellness, reaching The “West Dem” physiotherapy team

Physiotherapist Aruni Shamnarine

try without any advanced equipment and still help others recover from serious health conditions.

Because the field is constantly evolving, it can be quite challenging to be a good physiotherapist and so to be able to perform optimally, a deep reservoir of knowledge would be required – and a constantly updated one at that.

“This means a lot goes into studying and profes-

in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) will tap into the services being offered at the main hospital in Vreed-en-Hoop. Many residents, she observed, are not aware that the services they travel to Georgetown for are available right there at the regional hospital.

Now a physiotherapist for 11 years, Aruni has always been interested in a career in healthcare and with the guidance and support of

can have on a person’s life.

It is a remarkably diverse field,” Aruni shared.

She believes that physical therapy intervention is not only effective, but is less costly than other medical interventions. “Another fascinating aspect of this field is being in any part of the world only equipped with my hands and knowledge and being able to provide effective interventions to make a difference in the lives of so

about 50 persons per month through their chronic disease clinics, pre and post-natal clinics, and various health centres.

“Seeing patients recover from their illnesses is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling reasons that drives me to being a physiotherapist.

It is seeing them get better from being bedridden to SEE PAGE V

Conducting education sessions to raise awareness of the services available at the regional hospital

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Kiddies will fall in love with Armadillo Earth Farm - Featuring children’s yoga, nature hikes and fun games

By Telesha Ramnarine RECOGNISING that children are substantially more likely to suffer long term physical, mental and emotional effects of the current pandemic, Diane Chin and her husband Joseph have teamed up with a group of professional teachers to create solutions that can

10-acre ecological safe space located at Long Creek, on the Linden Soesdyke Highway, the Armadillo Earth Farm allows for activities like kids’ yoga, sewing craft, nature hikes and other fun games.

The mission of Armadillo Earth Farm is to create a space that is aligned with how children learn naturally and focus is being placed

in front of a screen for hours on end, that they have lost friends, that there’s no social interactions and connections, no play, no fun. Basically, the world that children have been forced to live in is ironically very bad for their immune systems and, of course, their health,” she further expressed.

In addition to academics,

Kids’ yoga is one of the fun activities on board

The kids are taught a number of forest survival techniques, along with wildlife exploration/education

help kids navigate the harsh realities that they’re currently experiencing.

The kiddies’ day camp at the Armadillo Earth Farm that they hosted recently has received overwhelming support, so much so, that another one is fixed for August 7. A

on developing children’s creative skills. “The goal is to help each child actualise their unique potential and God-given passion,” Diane told Pepperpot Magazine.

“The camps are taking into consideration that children have been forced to sit

Fun games designed for children ages 6 to 12 years

Diane said children must sing, dance, paint; learn basic life skills such as cooking, sewing, woodworking, planting their own food, knowing the importance of composting, and protecting the forest.

“Our current high tech, modern, civilised world has

Art and craft activities

come at a high price. We are disconnected from the wisdom of our own bodies, our spirit and our creative intuitions and from nature herself from which our very bodies are birthed and from which all our substance comes,” she posited.

Following the first camp, parents have been reaching out to enquire about other camps and other activities

for the August holidays and beyond. So the second camp will see collaboration with professional scouts who will be there to teach the children a number of forest survival techniques, wildlife exploration and education, basic pioneering (building structures out of the natural surroundings) and more. The buildings at the farm have all been built with materials

from the surrounding areas.

The idea of overnight camping facilities where children can be immersed in nature, learning basic survival skills, how to take care of animals and plants on a farm, how to grow their own food, do yoga and meditation are all areas that are being looked at by the Armadillo Earth Farm team for the future.

On August 7, a bus will leave Georgetown at 08:15 hrs to transport the children along with their parents.

“The camps are a wonderful relaxation opportunity for the parents as they get a chance to relax in an enchanted natural setting, read a book from the extensive library at the farm while their children are being taken care of by professional teachers,” Diane said.

The camp caters for children between the ages of 6 and 12 years old The spaces are limited as the organisers ensure that there is no overcrowding and all COVID-19 protocols are being observed.

Professional teachers will be on hand to care for the children

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Finding entrepreneurship during a pandemic

By Dillon Goring

IT can be argued that it is the creativity of Guyanese businessmen and women which has allowed them to innovate since the start of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

For Phaedra Williams, this was definitely the case, because it led her to establish “Organic Pure Ginger Juice” as another alternative juice on the local market.

The Pepperpot Magazine sat down with Phaedra Williams, who detailed her experiences on how the business began.

“It began with my love for ginger. Ginger is a versatile rhizome that could be used in a variety of ways in numerous dishes or beverages, but cleaning and grating was such a task for me that oftentimes it would be left to dry up,” she explained. “One day I thought I should just extract the juice and see what happens. There and then, that problem was solved for me.

I gave out samples to my church family and friends and solicited feedback which I took on board in arriving at a product that I am proud of today.”

She explained that regarding the organic aspect, because of consumers’ interest in health and wellness, her aim is to try and cater to the demands for such products. “We source our products from farmers who are producing organically, though they have not

Phaedra Williams and her Organic Pure Ginger Juice

been certified by a certifying body,” Williams told the Pepperpot Magazine.

Williams further outlined that she has been involved in the business for a long time, but working in a job that required her to be on the job from 08:00hrs until late, and being involved in studies kept her occupied.

She also commented that being involved in the agro-

processing type of business was further down on her timeline, but believes that one must be opportunistic as an entrepreneur.

“That happened when I was solving a problem for myself and thought this solution could work for other people who had a similar problem. I re-registered my business in September 2020 and launched Organic

Pure Ginger Juice to the public in November, but my attention was divided between an important life event and the business, so the product really only took off from January of this year,” she was quoted as saying.

According to Williams, the product was launched during the pandemic. So, when asked to assess the

impact of the pandemic on supply and demand of the product, she noted that for the last five months she has dealt with price increases for raw materials and remarked that this might be the case for most producers.

“My suppliers have alluded to scarcity and increased fuel prices, among other factors. I expect that by the last quarter, supply will return to

‘Seeing patients recover is...

normal levels, and this will impact final price,” Williams told Pepperpot Magazine.

Williams noted that the reception by customers to her products has been awesome.

She added that she has been pleased and pleasantly surprised by how her male customers responded to the popular “Organic Pure Ginger Juice”; however, she noted that was not a target segment initially.

Future of Organic Pure Ginger Juice According to Williams, the immediate goal is to expand the reach in the domestic market. Currently, the product is available in Georgetown, lower East Coast and the East Bank of Demerara (up to Diamond), so there is tremendous opportunity to grow on the local market. “Obviously, I want the OrganiPure line of products in regional and international markets and I am working towards building export capacity and capability within a certain timeframe.

“I know what goes into getting ready to participate in trade fairs and expos, but it’s not just the event that you have to be ready for; it’s the after-event, where you try to capitalise on the opportunities that arise out of these types of events. So, am I in a position now to capitalise on these opportunities? To a certain extent, yes and no. But I am working on that,” Williams said.

FROM PAGE III

Using a therapeutic standing frame to train this little girl’s legs to bear her body weight

walking again over a course of treatment and rehabilitation and achieving their goals.

Helping patients to be able to do the most simple and practical things in everyday living again is just so important and rewarding,” Aruni commented.

She works along with two junior physiotherapists, one occupational therapist and two rehabilitation assistants.

While they are stationed at the main hospital with most of the patient load, they would make monthly visits to the Rehab departments in the Wakenaam and Leguan Cottage Hospitals that Aruni also supervises.

The Rehab department

offers physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy, among other services. Fractures, nerve injury, brain injury, stroke and amputation, are some of the things that can be treated in Aruni’s department.

Children who cannot walk, were born with a disability, or may have speech and other problems, can also be helped. “We want people to make use of the services available here. If they are interested in accessing them, they can get a referral from any healthcare worker or they can walk in or call us and we can advise them on which path to take,” Aruni

explained.

The success stories that the team often encounters do much to motivate them on the job. “We had a young patient who had an accident and got a brain injury. When he came here, he could’ve only moved his neck, but by the time he finished with therapy, he could’ve walked and do everything as normal; even return to work,” she said. “It makes us feel good to know we’re effective and helping people back to their normal lives; adding quality to their lives. Most of the times when they come, they tell us it’s better they had died, but seeing them go through the pro-

cess where they want to live again is fulfilling and makes us happy.”

Aruni holds a Bachelors’ degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation from the University Of Medical Sciences Of Villa Clara, Cuba; Masters’ degree in Sports Medicine from University of the West Indies, Jamaica; Post graduate diploma in health systems management from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel; and she’s currently pursuing a doctorate in Physiotherapy at NOVA Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021 rl Croker photos)

Sandvoort Village (Ca

Sandvoort Village Perfect for quiet farming life

By Michel Outridge THIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the quiet countryside village of Sandvoort, West Canje, Berbice, a community with a lot of vegetation and is tucked away on that stretch of road, which is the last village.

The village is unique in its own way, and the people are very friendly, accommodating, live simply and it is home to farmers.

The village has a primary and nursery school housed in one building, a health centre, a community centre building which is in the top flat of the same edifice housing the health centre.

Sandvoort is a place where houses line both sides of the road, and it has very vast backlands, privately owned and used to cultivate large-scale rice-farming,

rearing of cattle and cashcrop farming by villagers.

The community has potable water supply, electricity, internet, landline and cellphone services and basic infrastructure.

Sandvoort is the last village on that corridor, and it is between Lochaber and Anna Clementia Farm; the very last place is Wyburg, which isn’t accessible by road.

The road stops a Sandvoort Village and the way to the other places, way down to the backlands, is by a dam and most bridges are missing, so locals would go via horses.

Back in the days, people used to farm at Anna Clementia, but that is not happening now because the place needs to be developed.

The population of just about 400 and the locals are of mixed race: Afro- Guya-

Village elder, Yourick Munroe (Carl Croker photos)

Focus on the Village

nese, Indo-Guyanese, Indigenous persons and Chinese.

Sandvoort is an agriculture-based village and the people are very resourceful and self-sufficient, and almost everybody does something honest to earn.

The community is like a large family setting and the people are related by blood and there aren’t any newcomers, since most people who live there lived all their lives there and it is the only place they call ‘home.’

Sandvoort was once a Dutch plantation where coffee was grown on a large scale before it became a village bought by slaves, where locals began occupying the lands.

Presently the local farmers are counting their losses which ran into millions due to the recent flooding and are trying to regroup, since most cattle that survived the flood were sold and crops were destroyed.

Sandvoort Village is about three miles from New Amsterdam and the people grow their own food while fish, meats and vehicles selling groceries would pass through the village, so things are easily reached.

The people of this village are blessed with longevity,as the elders often attain the age of 80s and 90s.

They credit their longevity on the organic foods they consume and their being a God-fearing people.

SEE PAGE XVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Taking it ‘one day at a time’

VII

The farmers of Sandvoort are resilient

By Michel Outridge

FOR Sophia Victor, Sandvoort Village is the place for her; it is home and she has spent years to establish herself as a cash-crop and poultry farmer and still has time to do household chores.

The 55-year-old is a very independent woman, a mother of five, who is self-employed by planting cash crops and has 100 meat birds.

This is the kind of woman who doesn’t sit by idly, and when the Pepperpot Magazine visited her home, she was stripping some coconut branches to make pointer brooms for herself and family members.

It is not a simple task for most people, but Victor made it look as though it was; she was surrounded by

Sophia Victor stripping coconut branches to make pointer brooms (Carl Croker) James Sinclair.

Robert Edward displaying what is left of his crops

branches and with a kitchen knife she was stripping it to make pointer brooms.

“Of my five children, two are on their own, three are living at home here with me and I do my own farming and my husband has his own plot of land and does his own farming as well,” she said.

Victor reported that when they had a flood she lost her crops of boulanger, bora, ochro, and peppers among others and will re-start her farming when the water recedes.

As is, she is raising funds to buy plants for her farm and is taking things ‘one day at a time’ and every week

she would purchase a set of baby chicks to rear and sell.

She has already prepared the land and is awaiting good weather to put down some plants on the farm which is right in the village.

Victor is one of the locals who lived all her life in the community and is pleased that she doesn’t have to leave the village to look for work.

The Sandvoort resident stated that her husband has a crop of strictly ground provisions and he was away in New Amsterdam doing some errands.

As regards the task at hand, Victor said she will

make eight pointer brooms, two for herself and she will share out the rest to family members.

“I feel empowered I am working, handling my own money, and that is the way to go, make your own money,” she said.

The sheep and cash-crop farmer Meanwhile, Robert Edward, a sheep and cash-crop farmer, told the Pepperpot Magazine that of 55 sheep he has only 10 left, due to the flood.

The 53-year-old stated SEE PAGE XVII

Focus on the Village

Dry coconuts that will be used to make virgin coconut oil

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Ideal camping grounds Sandvoort resident determined to make village a tourist attraction

Terrence Fraser coming form the backlands via horseback

By Michel Outridge RATHER than having a vast landmass just sitting there, overgrown by bushes, farmer, Reginald Collins is hoping to transform the place into a tourism site, a camping ground with many trees.

Collins has lands where he resides and is the last house in the village and his investment is private between himself and children.

The Nature Camp Site will be the perfect getaway for people seeking that kind of recreation and the area is being developed.

The land has been sprayed for all pests and is being prepared for planting trees and the other things

needed to beautify the grounds to make it acceptable for a nature park setting.

Collins told the Pepperpot Magazine that the place will have washroom facilities, camping ground with 40-vehicle parking and he will also promote local Canje Creek tours via boats.

The father of six added that it is a four-acre plot that will be converted into the camping site especially for tourism purposes and within the next few years, the development will take place where cash crops will be planted too.

Collins is a farmer and has 50 acres of farmland where he is cultivating citrus and cash crops but due to the recent flooding, he lost millions when floodwaters

Reginald Collins (Carl Croker photos)

destroyed his crops.

The 50-year-old would journey till to West Coast Demerara to purchase plants for his undertaking and will make his nature park resort a reality.

“This project will run for five years before it is fully done and after trees are planted and the land developed, cash crops cultivation will also take place so people can camp out with their gears among many trees, plants, out in the open air,” he said.

Collins stated that in addition, 2500 fruit trees will be planted on the grounds of the campsite and once the weather is good, things will happen.

Terrence Fraser accessing the backlands via horseback Meanwhile, Terrence Fraser, a farmer who was coming on out the backlands from his farm via horseback, told the Pepperpot Magazine that he lost seven cows due to the excess water on the land and had to build a dam to save his crops of rice and cash crops.

He said they need drainage upgrades urgently because the water is coming in on the farmlands via the creek rapidly.

“I have 900 plantain trees underwater that cannot be saved and it is difficult

Reginald Collins points to the area to be developed into a nature camping site

to bounce back from such a loss,” he said.

Fraser stated that they build roads and streets in the village through self-help, but that is not sufficient, so added assistance is needed.

Recently they made his street with burnt bricks because it was a dam and now they can use it.

Fraser, like most farmers, suffered a lot of loss because

their crops are underwater and there is nothing they can do and they still have cows in the backlands with nowhere to relocate them.

He explained that water is too much in the farms and it is not easily accessible, so he would go via horseback because he has to tend to his cows and check on his rice and cash crops.

“This flooding here is

a natural disaster; we not blaming anyone at this point because we didn’t know this would happen but at least come and access the situation and see how best we can deal with the situation,” he said.

Fraser said the kokers have no doors and the water is pouring in at an alarming rate in the backlands.

Focus on the Village

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

IX

Sandvoort Health Centre and the NDC

By Michel Outridge

Midwife Elizabeth Austin is in charge of the Sandvoort Health Centre and is also from the community and has good relations with the people crediting it to her open-door policy where no one is turned away.

With the motto “Service above self” in mind, Austin told the Pepperpot Magazine that no one is turned away who shows up for medical services because they are there to serve the people.

Youlande Sinclair

“We have gained the trust of the people, and that is our goal because we want people to feel comfortable coming here, and they can relate to us what is happening to them medically so we can help through medicines,” she said.

She, however, pointed out that there is a need for an in-house doctor at the Sandvoort Health Centre because a lot of people would visit to see the doctor that visits twice weekly.

Austin is aided by three other staffers: a Nursing Assistant, a Clinic Attendant, and a Community Health Worker.

They collectively provide a reliable service that is free to the people, including post and prenatal, infant and child health, family planning, general outpatient, chronic diseases clinic, and home visits.

Austin reported that patients with seasonal illnesses would seek medical intervention and more people would visit to see the doctor, who would visit every Tuesday and Friday.

The Sandvoort Health Centre is a neat, clean little building with a dressing room, a nurses’ lunch room, triage area, waiting area with seating, a kitchen, washroom facilities, child-friendly corner, a vaccine room and a doctor’s area.

Austin has been at the facility for the past 20 years, and being a local, she is familiar with all the villagers and can relate to them daily.

The government-owned facility is open from 08:00hrs to 16:30hrs from Monday to Friday and is a well-kept place.

The Caracas/Wyburg NDC The Vice Chairman of the Caracas/Wyburg Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) is Ganganauth Mahadeo, who reported that the NDC is divided into three constituencies: Caracas, Vryheid/Lochaber and Sandvoort.

He stated that Sandvoort is a tranquil, safe neighbourhood, and it is a farming village where the people are very hard working.

Mahadeo added that with the recent flooding, Sandvoort was affected, and at the NDC level, they have partnered with the regional

administration and Central Government to bring relief to the people, especially farmers.

He explained that a hymac was there to upgrade the drainage system and tubing is needed to stop the backwater from entering the farmlands.

Mahadeo reported that the tubing is being procured for the koker.

He disclosed that the NDC was formed in 2018 and they do not collect rates and taxes because it is new, so they do not have resources to lend assistance to the locals.

But by the end of this year, they will begin the collection of rates and taxes

NDC Vice-Chair, Ganganauth Mahadeo

and they will be able to do more for the villages under their NDC. The Caracas/Wyburg NDC has six councillors and the Chairman is Cheemanlall Youardhan and for the first time in years, Sandvoort Village was flooded, which affected farmers and caused a loss in crops and livestock.

Youlande Sinclair The 67-year-old told the

Focus on the Village

- Serving the people, fulfilling their mandate

Pepperpot Magazine that Sandvoort Village was a Dutch plantation and is divided into two sections, the English and the Dutch.

The mother of two stated that the village has a lot of people, who leave for work such as nurses, soldiers, policemen, teachers, but most people are farmers and self-employed folk.

The village has a few small shops and things are within reach and Sinclair likes the quietness and peace of the place.

“Although I lived abroad for some time, here is home and I am proud to be from Sandvoort Village, the place of my birth; our fore-parents were here and we have to stay to maintain our heri- The Caracas/Wyburg NDC Office tage so this will always be ers, have a lot of family is made up of many such home,” she said. members living next to families, making it a very Sinclair, like many otheach other and this village close-knit community.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

‘The Veggies Shop’ in New Amsterdam

By Michel Outridge FOR veggies lovers or even regular people, who prefer a healthier food option, there is a wholesome, unprocessed, plant-based diet for you when in the ancient country, there is ‘The Veggie Shop’ which prepares whole foods.

Wayne Williams, a religious man, owns and manages this business. He believes that “health is the right arm of the church” was motivated to open his own food shop at Pope and Main Streets, New Amsterdam, next door to the fast-food outlet, Demico.

Willia ms, a staunch Seventh Day Adventist, explained that he wanted to give people a healthier food option with a plant-based diet variety of foods and juices.

He added that from his breakfast which is non-diary,

whole wheat roti, bake, dhal puri, porridge and bush tea goes with home-made stews in the form of vegetables.

For lunch there is a wide range of stews to go with rice and greens plus curry channa and peas with local juice made with turmeric, ginger and passion fruit.

Williams disclosed that due to rising foods prices he was forced to raise the prices for his foods from July 1 this year but the response has been overwhelming and he is willing to do more in terms of healthier foods options.

He stated that they also make breads and pastries, all whole wheat and the restaurant which was designed by Williams has a very homey, cosy feel to it with adequate seating accommodation, lovely home-made lamps and wall pictures and other religious things that deck the walls of this place.

The restaurant is clean and well-kept with all COVID-19 protocols in place such as, wearing of a face mask, hand washing and social distancing.

Williams reported that a lot of people would visit including the health-conscious, the Rastafarians and folks who prefer the non-meats and non-dairy products.

“I would make our own coconut butter to cook, pimento cheese, virgin coconut oil, veggies chunks and we use only soy curds, and as a joiner, I make things for the shop, I got this place designed to my liking and brought it to this acceptable standard,” he said.

Williams said he went to the doctor once to enquire about his prostate and asked the health professional what it would take for him not to return and he was told he has to eat healthy, exercise and

Promting healthy eating

Wayne and Renalita Williams at W&R Health Mart

Wayne Williams in his Veggies Shop

get lots of sunshine.

With that prospect in mind, Williams set out to establish a healthy food shop from scratch and today his small business has grown.

“Since I quit eating meats and only veggies I feel better

inside, out and I also didn’t have the need to return to the doctor,” he said.

Williams added that that with a healthier diet he is a changed man and he would like others to experience the non-dairy, non-meats foods

he has at his restaurant.

He stated that healthy eating prevents a lot of diseases and preserve life a bit longer and it also boosts the immune system and our lives revolves around our diet, lifestyles and worship.

The father of one reported that the shop is opened from 08:00hrs to 17:00hrs and he has three employees and they prepare all the foods and juices in-house where they have a small kitchen.

Meanwhile, his wife, Renalita Williams operates the W & R Health Mart at Cheddi Jagan Street, New Amsterdam.

The small business promotes healthy living through SEE PAGE XVIII

The products available at W& R Health Mart

Focus on the Village

CHRONICLEPEPPERPOT PEPPERPOT Sunday, July 25, 28, 2021 CHRONICLE ―― Sunday, February 2021

XI XIII

LIVING ON THEALONE AWARENESS OF THE AESTHETIC AND IS RUSSIAN THE ‘BEING’ OF OUR YOUNG NATION Part II ROULETTE…my brothers

The fragility and conclusion children too, yuh know?“ I of life are fated, but it is not couldn’t imagine to myself sensible or mandated to force how that will work. Their its hand. The frequency of positions will impose, envemen living alone who die lope and lead that relationalone, some found days after, ship into purgatory. This is a is too common. Positive and man’s conversation that both negative properties combine genders can learn from. Men everything that yields life, like to say that we did well thus it takes two to Tango as in the “bachie” days living the song implies. Over the alone. It’s a stupid argument. past four weeks, I experi- We were young men, we enced my elderthis brother who ate during work, cooked in IN concluding discussion, which is intended to raise lived alone, found dead.

Nextandthe afternoon or ateactions at the questions within the reader inspire responsible among those who that lived acquire decision making positions are was a friend alonethen-girlfriend.

We or were already there, we cannot at a sensible in denial of the woman arrive he hardly alone, awithout night orcontwo siderations in retrospect. a brief we home must should have been with, So in in we may flashback, not have slept recognise, whatsolitarywe have took lost to our memory referself-imposed the physical whole night, or later as ence archive, and use this as inspiration, to be able to raise in ill, and died.

Now an ac‘that’ relationship evolved, a natural alarm, a connection to the aesthetic sensitivity quaintance from authorised comalerting us to the the factarcade that weslept needwith to have a historical was found in his home with pany.

The era of young men memory in respect to our surroundings, as buildings, landthe wardrobe that he seemed falling of in and out of love and scapes and architecture are inherent memories in both to have clutched despera- experiencing theWe fundamenthe conscious andinsubconscious awareness. have to become than people who tal occupy a geographic space tion on other his dead body.

He too broken heart obviously onlived this alone planet,and anddied relate to what is the necessary thinking alone. grieving; then taunted out of that enable us someone to address from the now what Hadwill there been heart-break byonward the primitive iselse significant to telling our stories, especially stories imwho cared, he may have counselling methods of peers portant to our timelines. When we became independent, lived.

This is more frequent is much more different than the euphoria of self-governed nationhood intoxicated us, than with womenthe mature man somewhat it with had males its grounds for intoxication alongside sober examthis self-imposing accustomed that to stability who ination.

We did notretreat make to the observation all around findswe himself alonecontrolled and needs ushermitage. within the borders of countries still held admiration had retained the edifices ofmore pastthan times.

This is for, a conversation companionship the Our own had coloniser dismantled Hadrian’s I have with England friends; never sensual quest.

Wall.

In more one, from Iprevious colonisers and indeed, I didways havethan it with had three experiences also from despised local leaders, they kept the memory two of the mentioned, and a that indicated why we should for reflection, in our Caribbean, Christophe’s spectacular friend from Leopold Street not live alone. I was a freefortress of defence in Haiti will remain, regardless of his who sold precious lancewhite graphic artist at Chronhistory.

Europe with stones the obvious supremacy that under Demico.

He, too, was icle and trying to develop my emerged with colonisation did not destroy the sculptures by his daughter days artworks graphic arts industry, offound Afro-European Knights, andcultural literature that after,of, among others. and also was assigned to spoke or alluded to The the African presence in a much older they the didn’t in-depth celebrate list isEurope, extensiveofofcourse, men who Walter Roth Museum in them anddie also hid their new portraits live either, alone and alone, the identities training aswith a Scientific Artist, and in movies. question I asked is why? An and learning the methodoloWhere we erred in Guyana was not to use the structures answer each time that I could gy of Social Anthropology that became available with the decline of trademark services have only men and I had to a baby daughter like thepredicted, Trains, tonot build museums dedicated that part of our mature, and with maturity and bills to clear.

There’s historical memory. Why preserve the physical imagery of the are ingrained theancestors memories thing beingthe young past?

Simple, our livedthis it, for theabout historian, creof the years, experiencedjournalist, and an the illusion of location having ative mind, the investigative physical isand important.

The development museumsqualities. was a continuous witnessed.

Earlier this ofDemigod It ended peeve thea conversation late Dr. Dennis who when had identified year Iofhad out Williams, one evening I arrived Five Museums to be built, he insisted a marine of concern with a one-time home that (I was living inmuseum a room would have beenfrom a must.

I can now imagineStreet. a display the popular boxer a roots on Lamaha I hadofrentship’s kitchen on Lady Northcourt with its cook, the portrait area about living alone. He ed from the late Eilean Cox of indifference ‘John’, ‘keep away from John’s kitchen, and replied, asking should me if Iread knew next Dr. Hanoman). took why?’

A caption before thistorude faced ship’sI cook a certain popular my clothes intending for a made of papier máchéwoman –“whose of kitchen lay beneath a toilet, fromwhich the old picnic days. continuously, He bath, fellorinto doze andmade was from water dripped so awe were said they had conversations awoken by a sharp pain in the See Page XIX about that, but she had grown mid-section. I never felt pain children who still hung on like that before. I couldn’t mommy as permanent depen- stand up or raise my torso. dents, he questioned: “ How The pain held me in a bent duh gon wuk out eh? Me lil position, though phones were cheese gon got fuh feed all not prevalent back then, that ah dem, cause like she can’t house had a phone. I crawled tell dem move on, some got on my fours and called Don-

na, explaining what was happening. I wanted somebody to know that I was dying. She replied that I wasn’t going to die. It was wind pain. Up to then, I had no idea what that was, it seemed like forever, but she arrived with clothes for a few days and two items she identified as hot water bags. This continued for gruelling days. Had I been alone without communications and someone to call, I very well could have died. The next incident happened one night I came off the drawing table, my buddy Andrew Anderson was there, looking at sketches for ‘The shadow of the Jaguar’ so I went upstairs to urinate and all I realised was that I was looking at the toilet bowl from the floor up.

Donna called out for Doctor Hanoman after I recovered with the help of friends. The Doctor said that I was lucky I didn’t smoke anything or drank liquor or I would have been playing with fire.

He said that when he got up between 1:00hrs-2:00hrs, I was still at my drawing table, it was located at the window, arm’s length for description, and there I was at 5:30hrs heading for the sea wall for the start the day run. Again, there were people around to ensure that I am here today. The place is hot, climate change is real today, we are dehydrated faster, we work harder, we are constantly fighting extreme stressful situations, do not eat on time, nor are concerned with what we eat, nor do we give our body the acquired rest it needs. We don’t have the money for frequent medical check-ups, doing the mentioned and living alone is definitely not sensible. Habits like alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana, cocaine and stuff like Viagra, with any of the mentioned living or not living alone, is playing Russian Roulette.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

TOO YOUNG TO DIE – The conclusion

SHE found him one week later after her funeral, at the Magistrate’s Court, knowing he would be there after hearing mourners speak with disgust at the charges he had gotten. She stood there and watched in disbelief as he walked free of the charges that had nothing to do with death by dangerous driving.

“So much for justice,” she expressed, deeply disappointed.

He had a carefree smile on his face as he chatted with two detectives who had exited the court with him.

“Possibly his friends,” she said, dejected, feeling as though everything was lost, “If only he can see me, see my bloody and torn skin and clothes.”

An image she wanted to haunt his thoughts so he would not have peace of mind.

“A sort of revenge,” she said, anger rising within her, “But how can I make that happen?”

The man turned and walked with confident strides to his car, right where she was standing and suddenly he froze, a flash of fear on his face. He stepped back a little, turned around and asked his detective friends, “You see that?”

“See what?” they asked, puzzled.

“Is he seeing me?” Sandhya asked with a surge of hope.

She stepped away from his car to see if his eyes would follow her and he did.

“Yes!” she exulted, “It happened, now the drama starts.”

The man walked cautiously to his car and his friends

asked, concerned, “Are you okay, man?”

He made to say something, then decided against it and drove away.

She followed him in his car in her spiritual form, knowing she could allow her haunting image to be seen at the right time.

He stopped by a beer

garden and was joined a short while later by his two detective friends. He pushed two sealed envelopes across the table to them and ordered a round of beers.

She watched them as they celebrated with another few rounds then made her appearance, sitting at a table nearby.

He wasn’t facing that table but when he turned, he shouted, “Damn!” jumping up and knocking over some beers.

His friends, startled by his action, asked confused:

“What is wrong with you, man?”

The man inhaled deeply, hitting the table angrily with his fist, “This is not happening!”

Other patrons turned to look and his friends got up and said, “I think you should go home and relax.”

He left abruptly and Sandhya felt satisfied she was unnerving him with fear.

His house, an outstanding modern design in an upscale area and the cars in his garage underlined his rich status.

“Money does talk,” she said, “And the poor have no voice, but I will find a voice to ensure you pay because I was too young to die, I had a future.”

At home, things weren’t looking good for her family.

Her mother had to be taken to the hospital because her blood pressure had risen to a dangerous level. Her young brother and sister looked so lost with their big sister gone and the mother ill.

Sandhya stayed close with them for a period, SEE PAGE XIII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

TOO YOUNG TO DIE..

FROM PAGE XII though just a spiritual being, seen only by Princess whom she had to caution, “Don’t bark and wag your tail in excitement when you see me. I don’t want anybody to know I’m here.”

Princess had sat down with one paw over her eyes and peeping from under.

Sandhya had to laugh to herself, “Gosh, you’re so smart and cute. I’ll really miss you.”

The day her mother came out of the hospital, Sandhya went back to find her killer. She knew she would have to leave Earth soon for a heavenly abode, so she had to make things happen.

Life went on for the rich man, of course, but she followed him everywhere, at fancy restaurants, bars and drag-racing events. Her haunting disturbed him so

deeply, then continued in a lower tone, “She has been haunting me.”

There was a long moment of silence as his wife looked at him, shocked, then she asked quietly, “Why do you think she’s doing that?”

“I was not charged for her death and her family was not compensated.”

“And I guess she’s from a poor family?”

“Yes,” he answered.

His wife looking deeply upset, said: “There’s your answer. You literally killed a child on the road and walked free. Her soul is still here because she wants justice.”

“What can I do?”

“You need to visit the family and have a talk with them about the loss of their child and what you can do for them.”

He took his wife’s ad-

He looked at Sandhya standing there and said, “Let’s just say my conscience was haunting me and I figured this was the right thing to do.”

Soberly, her mother accepted his offer and said unmoved, “It’s good to know you have a conscience.”

The man smiled wryly and nodded.

Princess barked and wagged her tail and her mother looking at the dog, realised her daughter’s soul was still there.

“Sandhya,” she whispered, “You didn’t leave me, you made sure we were taken care of before you left.”

Sandhya smiled, “Yes, Ma, I have to go now, the angels have been waiting.”

She hugged Princess and said, “Now you’ll take care of the family and I’ll see you in heaven someday.”

much that people in his close circle thought he was showing signs of a mental breakdown.

Then one morning whilst he was having breakfast, he broke down and shouted at her, “What do you want?!”

His wife looked at him startled, “Who are you talking to?”

“The girl,” he said, suppressed anger on his face.

“What girl?”

There was worry on his wife’s face, given his recent strange behaviour.

The man got up, frustrated and angry at the same time at not having admitted his wrong, but forced now to do so.

“The accident I had made on the road and the young girl that died.”

He paused and inhaled

vice, wanting the problem to go away.

He did better than Sandhya expected, expressing his deep regrets to her mother for what had happened and giving her an envelope with a large amount of cash. She was reluctant to take the money, inconsolable in her grief because no money could pay for her child’s life.

He pleaded with her, “Please take this, I know it cannot compensate for your loss, and I will give you monthly cash support for two years to help you build your lives.”

Her mother couldn’t stop crying and asked somewhat puzzled, “You were not charged for her death, so why are you doing this?”

The little dog whimpered sadly as the young girl slowly walked away.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 28, 2021

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

To the people who can’t get out of bed

o not always know what I’m looking losing your phone would be on a scale of 1-10. 98 percent y phone is such a normal part of my said 10 and 2 percent said 9. They all claimed that it would my hand that I cannot count the numbe the worst material possession that they could ever lose. hed for it, while it was actually in my They continued to say that feelings of anxiety, irritation and o when I get up in the morning and overwhelming sadness would be felt if they were to lose their going to sleep is check my phone. I phone today. healthy and something must be done. out of that bed.

It You seems harmless, right? Caring so much about a THIS one is an import- alone in this thought. might conditions-such as depresant one for me because It’s more than the bed is feel there is no reason to, but sion or Dysania, that’s the and found that women were more phone?

Well,word this week use I’ve there was a time when it comfortable, the covers are a strong part of you really psychiatrists to been really paying attention difficult for me to simply get warm, because your body is in the does want to get up, you just describe those who don’t get d towas their phones men to not, thesomeimportance that I and others around me give to a out of bed in the morning. most comfortable position; can’t. Fear things out of bed – but other times, it’s hard to findAlso, it’s the feeling no matter can be phone, done. things that we can do on ocialSometimes media apps. olderthatpeople ratherit’sthan what’s actually going on around them. a purpose and you’re not what, you do not want to get Sometimes, its medical our own, without any professional help. e addicted. I believe this is because Our phones -whether we are speaking to other people, I’m not shying away from use smartphones (My father actually professional or help playing because using social media games -- can be addictive typically if you can’t get out bed, it is moods, a sign of seriousbeliefs and trigger enjoyable as they alterof our SEE PAGE XV y colleagues and friends how bad and unenjoyable feelings. Apart from obviously being my main source of communication, my phone is my newspaper, watch, alarm, map, recorder, day planner, calendar, camera, music player, calculator, a weapon (sometimes) and my friend when I’m bored or lonely- basically everything. However, it is also my constant interrupter and distractor. I (I imagine much like most of you out there) have a deep desire to know everything that is going on.

I believe that is human nature. But when does it become too much?

Well, I believe it’s too much when it has a name. ‘Nomophobia’ is the term coined to describe the fear of being without a mobile phone. Seriously, what have we come to?

It becomes an addiction when the object begins to control your life and interferes with your daily activities, work, and relationships. I read somewhere that “The biggest obstacle to productivity is connectivity,” but overuse can affect a lot more than our productivity. The truth is, overuse of our phones can harm us psychologically, socially and physically.

With regard to affecting our social skills, how many of us miss out on a joke or good conversation as we were on our phones? How many times have we annoyed our good friend or family member because we were posting on social media how much fun we are having with them? It truly affects our

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

To the people ... depression and you should FROM PAGE XIV seek help for that. However, I’m going to talk about what you can do in the beginning stages, because if you can’t even get out of bed, how are you going to seek professional help?

First, you can make changes while you’re still in bed. The first is to try and regulate how much you sleep. A good night’s rest (eight hours) is important but sleeping all day is not. Too much of anything isn’t good for us-even sleep. So, have a good night’s rest but try and stay awake during the day.

Next, relaxation- just because you’re lying in bed does not mean you are mentally relaxed. To do this, you should try some form of mediation, laying there and doing deep-breathing,

focusing on the present and acknowledging how you feel.

Try some stretching, some light exercise like yoga poses- this can be done in bed and can bring energy and motivation.

Entertainment is key, but not enough that it keeps you in bed. You want to find stuff that makes you feel good enough to want to get out of bed. This can be music or movies, but it has to be the right genre; uplifting and motivational.

You can read self-help books or books that provide motivation to make lists of short and long-term goals and dreams. Try journalling – write down your thoughts and feelings; what’s keeping you in bed and what you think can make you come out of bed.

Try some light therapy, if you have a window in the

room, open the blinds and get some sunlight, as vitamin D helps with motivation and energy. If you don’t, simply leave a light on during the day; do not lie down in darkness all day.

Eat some food- even if it is in bed; keep your energy up with healthy food and snacks. Although, it would be best to start a list of things you can do out of bed- eating should be one.

When you’ve done all of this, after a few days, use your journal to make up a morning routine.

This can look like this.

Sit up-get out of bedhave some breakfast- do some stretching – focus on what’s around you that needs to be done. Is it house work, school work – anything that you have to do?

Make a list of things you enjoy doing and do them one at a time- do not over-

whelm yourself.

Some people find it beneficial to give themselves responsibility such as get a pet so you know you need to get out of bed to care for them and in turn, they care for you.

Find someone to talk to, someone who understands your situation and gives you the motivation to want to get up.

Stick to the same routine every day until you can do a little more every day. Your

day does not have to start at 6am, you start it whenever you’re ready.

Remember that mental health is connected with physical health and staying in bed all day can create additional physical issues that may make things worse.

Think back to a time when you weren’t stuck in bed. What were you able to do? What gave you joy?

Desire can provide tons of energy. Visualise successful

moments and days from the past and future.

Taking small steps forward is still moving in the right direction-forward!

Thanks for reading.

Please send any topic you would like to discuss to caitlinvieira@gmail.com.

If you would like to book an in-person or phone- private session with me, please WhatsApp or message 623 0433

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Sandvoort Village...

Yourick Munroe

One of the village elders is Yourick Munroe, who moved from his hometown of Manchester Village, Corentyne, Berbice, at age 16 to live and work in Sandvoort Village.

The 80-year-old is a spritely gentleman and a rice farmer, who also has a crop of sweet potatoes and some cash crops.

Munroe stated that he had some cows, but lost about 100 when the floods came and he was forced to sell off the rest of his herd.

He has 48 acres of rice that were entirely destroyed by floodwaters and cannot supply any rice to Nand Persaud rice mill this season.

Munroe said the Canje Creek runs along the village and being the last village at that end, they have vast backlands and most people utilise it for farming.

“Right now, the backlands are flooded and there is the koker, but with no doors so farmers cannot do any land preparation and they are waiting on a drainage upgrade because tubings are needed to be placed for the water to be drained off the land before any farming can take place again,” he said.

Munroe is the father of

17 children, has 58 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

“I didn’t come to waste time and I started to work at age 16 with some cows and that is how I began life and still working today without any sickness,” he said.

Munroe left his home village and relocated to Sandvoort with 14 cows and he

FROM PAGE VI used those cows to work the backlands, and over time, he accumulated money and bought lands in the village and began farming.

The elder, who is well-respected and well-known, stated that he left Guyana and worked as a rice farmer in Suriname for 32 years and was responsible for 66 workers, but it was time for him to return to Guyana.

Munroe explained that for people here to get serious our laws need to change and stiffer penalties should be imposed for the authorities to curb

Focus on the Village

lawlessness as in Suriname, where they have strict laws which are clear and every month they relocate the police so they do not get comfortable in one place.

He reported that Sandvoort is a very close-knit community with mostly families, and it is an equally safe place to live where there is no need to lock doors and everything can be left unattended and would not go missing.

Munroe stated that crimes are unheard of in that village and it is a very quiet place to lead a good country life.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Taking it ‘one day at ...

FROM PAGE VII

that his flock was wiped out and he is left scratching his head as to his next move, because his crops too have perished and he has bought some plants to re-plant.

Entire crop of corn, tomatoes, bora, corilla, papaya, crimson watermelons, pumpkin, celery, lettuce, sweet potatoes and cassava was destroyed.

“The suckers, that is, plantains, bananas are punishing to grow,” he said.

The father of four added that the flood really messed up things,since his livelihood depends on farming and it is quite

a setback for him; he is watching the weather, since he has some twoyear coconut plants to put down.

“Two hundred eddoe plants gone, so what should I do now having suffered such a blow and the soil composition is very unfit for farming right now, top clammy and the bottom is still watery,” he said.

Edward explained that if the weather is good, he would have to mix the paddy shells with sawdust to re-plant, but he is awaiting sunshine and the water to recede off the land.

The village elder Meanwhile, James Sinclair, a devoted Christian, told the Pepperpot Magazine that he had peeled 200 dry coconuts and was waiting on a relative to assist him in grating the coconuts to make home-made virgin coconut oil for the household.

The 78-year-old reported that he is a farmer, but these days he is taking it easy and his son would do the hard work on the farm.

He is originally from New Amsterdam but grew up in Sandvoort Village and has 37 to 40 acres of land, where they cultivate rice, cash crops and ground pro-

visions.

“I would get about 40 litres of virgin coconut oil and I would drink a spoonful every week to help with memory loss and so far, it is working,” he said.

Sinclair explained that one day he went to buy a compact disc (CD) and he realised he could not remember the name and had to return home without it.

Eventually, he was told about using virgin coconut oil to improve memory and he began using it and he was able to remember the name of the CD and made the purchase.

Robert Edward

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

‘The Veggies Shop’...

FROM PAGE X

The Veggies Shop

healthy eating and they have a variety of nuts such as almonds, roasted almonds, cashews, white nut, pecan, walnut, pistachio, hazelnut and mixed nuts.

W&R Health Mart has fruits and vegetables such as apples, grapes, strawberry, sweet tamarind, ice burg lettuce, Romain lettuce, pear, kiwi, broccoli, beets, and cauliflower.

They also have in stock seeds such as pumpkin, flax, white chia, sesame, and sunflower, milk in the form of roasted almond, hazelnut, almond breeze and soy.

Wayne Williams displaying his local coconut water on sale (Carl Croker photos)

Renalita Williams told the Pepperpot Magazine that she has smoothies and shakes, juices such as Welch’s grape, mango, pine, watermelon, pine, banana and coconut and carrot.

She reported that they have other items including pure honey, organic flour,

eddoes flour, sweet potato flour, organic brown rice, soybeans, cayenne pepper, sea salt, pink Himalayan sea salt, extra virgin coconut oil and activated charcoal.

W & R Health Mart is the place for all your organic and vegetarian supplies that are reasonably priced.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

International Day for Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem/Mangrove Day EVERY year on July 26, the world at large celebrates World Mangrove Day. Unlike other international days, there is no annual theme for this observance. The aims of World Mangrove Day are: * To raise awareness of the importance of mangrove

ecosystems as a unique, special and vulnerable ecosystem; and * To promote solutions for their sustainable management, conservation and uses.

One might ask, why should we celebrate mangroves?

Mangrove forests are unique in that one acre of mangroves can absorb up to five times more carbon than an acre of terrestrial forest!

This is because tropical mangroves store most of their carbon in the soil through their extensive root systems.

Therefore, the destruction of mangrove forests emits comparatively large amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. If that is not enough to pique your interest, let’s read on some more.

Mangroves are rare, spectacular and prolific ecosystems on the boundary between land and sea.

These extraordinary ecosystems contribute to the well-being, food security, and protection of coastal communities worldwide.

They support rich biodiversity and provide a valuable nursery habitat for fish and crustaceans. Mangroves also act as a form of natural coastal defence against storm surges, tsunamis, rising sea levels and erosion.

Nothing is scarier than having waves crashing into our shores with no mechanism in place to break that force. Yet, mangroves are disappearing three to five times faster than overall global forest losses, with severe ecological and socio-economic impacts.

Let us zero in on Guyana There are three main species of mangroves in Guyana, Avicennia germinans (black mangrove), Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove), and Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove). * Mangroves contribute

substantially to sea defence in Guyana by damping wave action and reducing wave energy; * Mangroves also help prevent erosion by stabilizing sediments with their tangled root systems; * Mangroves play an important role in the fight SEE PAGE XXI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

International Day for ...

FROM PAGE XX against climate change by trapping and storing carbon; * In addition to this, mangroves provide a habitat for many fishes and bird species, their roots often serving as a safe zone that allows juvenile fishes and other marine animals to grow; * Mangroves protect other ecosystems – seagrass beds and coral reefs by filtering pollutants and trapping sediments from inland. In the same way, they protect water quality; * The leaves of the mangroves have been used in tea, medicine, and livestock feed; During January 14-15, 2020 EPA conducted a workshop titled, “Berbice Restoration of Wellington Park Mangrove Reserve Sub- Regional Project”, under the North Brazil Shelf, Large

Marine Ecosystem Project, at its Whim Office. This project focused on the restoration of a coastal wetland area (mangrove area) through an Ecosystem Based Management (EBM) approach.

The EBM approach places significant emphasis on community’s involvement in the maintenance and management of their community. Ten members of the Wellington Park community were trained to collect water, soil, vegetation, invertebrate and vertebrate samples. The aim is to have a cadre of trained residents who can be re-engaged in the future and assist with the restoration project. The EPA believes that this is one step in promoting community involvement in the management of their environment.

You can learn more about Guyana’s unique mangrove

ecosystems by watching Reel Guyana’s documentary on the Barima/Mora passage.

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

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

THE LOCAL CONTENT POLICY FOR THE SUPPLY OF GOODS AND SERVICES TO THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY E PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 28, 2021 CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ―Sunday, Sunday,JF CLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 10, 2021 CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― OFFERS LUCRATIVE OPPORTUNITIES

nd THE discovery of oil de- have shared if they had is simply that oil-prospectthe in sun risen. up posits anyhad country for understood more clearly ing companies and their is, why is the Venezuelan public so convinced they the first time always comes whatthe was Seawalls happening and ancillary are On moonlit nights were alwayscompanies athat crowded ge with unexpected suddenwere given a bit more time comparatively few and are have a valid claim two-thirds of with Guyana’s territory and promenade.

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The rising reason other part sea of the world. why theirofthe politicians bellicose and aggressive about to enjoy ofare thesomoon from the and the ls development dustry comes with this claim?

And the second question is, why did President blue-green which was brighter, since there were speed. moonlight All mp similar Third World counMaduro of Venezuela this time seizethe thevarious boats no that roaddiscover lights to dilutechoose it. Others wouldtoenjoy of tries when heofknew he would the Guyanese reserves are phases thein-New Moon alienate with the background of population purple skies it. oil evitably caught in a and cause the international community to condemn or embellished with thousands of stars which appear syndrome of unpreparedness, and Guydisapprove of his action, Venezuela interbrighter since leaving there were no cityisolated lights. Others ana was no differnationally on the issue. would go to the Seawalls in the late afternoons to ent.

Many countries continue to remain The answer to the sunsets first question began during theinto Cold admire gradually transforming the in a state of dazed unpreparedness for light ofof dusk.

War: At theblue beginning the 1960s Britain had decided to decades, during which joysthe of colony the Seawalls were the withdraw fromAnother Guyana of andthe grant independence, time foreign companies goods why the oil and Local orof smaller earlyand evening Sunday concerts given by thebusinessMilitia butproviding it was very likely that theindustries Prime Minister the newly services ancillary to the the ancillary companies es could never have this Band the serve Police at the Bandstand which independent stateand would be them DrBand Cheddi Jagan, an avowed oil industry set themselves which have the advantage. up for reaping aattracted bonanza, hundreds mobility of being able to In the first few years ofsopeople.

Their repertoire conMarxist. U.S. Cold set War interests tried to persuade which the entrepreneurs themselves quickly after discoveringBritain oil, Guysisted light Strauss’ and of host country couldofindependence, in any classical part of the music world, ana wasas indeed in acould state of tothedelay Guyana’s but allsuch that Britain ballet Delibes’ pizzicato promise wasother that waltzes, she would handmusic over such power to a non-ComandMinister.

Sylvia, atAmerican least one English patriotic such munist Prime Intelligence feltsong that this “This royal throne of Kings” and British offerasneeded further insurance andand so Guyanese they devised Caribbean songs.

The concerts arranged a plan whereby theirfolk client Venezuela wouldwere threaten to for early evening so that children could attend; many Guyanese in later life have admitted that their first exposure to classical music was from these Bandstand concerts.

On Easter Monday thousands of kite-flyers turned out from five o’clock in the morning. Kites were all hand-made and were in a variety of shapes such as boxes, birds and snakes, but the predominant shape was the Guyanese octagon and in a variety of colours. Singing engines, a kite which a- made a loud droning sound, was one of the most popular. ng Kite-flying was always combined with picnicking. The Easter n, kite-flying today is a pale reminiscence of the heyday.

As mentioned above, the political tensions and criminality on kept people away from the Seawalls in the 1960s. By the nd invade Guyana if theremore wasstable any possibility of a Marxist 1990s life had become and people again began to government being installed in Guyana. frequent the Seawalls, but the ambience had changed. There

dazed unpreparedness, and Vice-President Dr Bharat Jagdeo summed up the situation in his remark that under the previous government, foreign companies were able to take over almost every sector. Fortunately for Guyana, there are two or three persons in government who are able, experienced

and knowledgeable and have a fairly deep insight into the workings of the international oil industry. Therefore, it was no surprise when VicePresident Jagdeo declared on behalf of the government that they were formulating a Local Content Policy which would soon be manifested in legislation.

In September last year, as soon as the new government acceded to office, an advisory panel consisting of Dr Shyam Nokta, Carl Greenidge, Anthony Paul, Kevin Ramnarine, Carville Duncan and Floyd Haynes was appointed and tasked SEE PAGE XXIX

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Is neo-colonialism disguised as foreign aid?

I WAS recently tasked with completing a critical evaluation paper for my final- year studies at the University of Guyana. I was asked to answer a few questions in the process, and one of those questions is; “What are new

forms of colonization faced

by Guyana?” I was not puzzled at all. Rather, my thoughts were a bit fuzzy because I understood that there are still many oppressive systems in this day and age, but I did not have a specific label to

explain my thoughts. Alas, after doing some research, I came across the term neo-colonialism. Suddenly, it all clicked. It also helped answer many unanswered questions I’ve had about the state of our country, and I hope it can help an-

swer your questions. Neo-colonial states are dependent on the former colonial masters (Europeans) for specific economic and political intervention. This dependency and exploitation of ‘independent’ colonies are maintained for the sole purpose of benefiting the erstwhile colonial masters. For practicality, Guyana is still dependent upon Europe for funds and interventional help when needed.

Capitalism and globalization are also oppressive systems and ideals that affect former colonies.

These former colonies from the Caribbean and Africa cannot make decisions without consultation with former colonial masters. They can be faced with severe consequences if they are not compliant. Given all of this, are we really independent and they’d like us to believe? In short,

the concept of neo-colonialism refers to all policies, infrastructures, systems and aspects that contribute to society by indirectly encouraging ideals and practices associated with colonialism. In essence, a country or state might be “Independent” in writing but external former-colonial states are still influencing it. These influences are camouflaged and disguised most of the time through “developmental aid,” “foreign aid” or “support.” When we sway from their ideologies and practices, there is always a need for “intervention.”

This cycle ends with us promoting constructive and practical leadership. If leaders fail to set positive examples for the country, then it’s obvious that we will need “intervention.”

It’s up to us to prove them wrong. We owe it to our ancestors and ourselves to rid these systems.

How then can we break these cycles of oppression?

My father always said to me that “there is no such thing as too much knowledge.” That has proved prosperous to me throughout my time at the University of Guyana, and that includes my time spent learning new concepts during this course. As such, education should be used as a tool to adSEE PAGE XXX

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

XXV

Vertical gardening: a modern farming method

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, May 0

MANY of our communities are transforming into industrial and urban centres as the earth’s population increases. This growth, coupled with climate change, poses new challenges to the human populace to produce enough food as farmland acreage decreases and consumers’ demands increase.

Over the past decade, scientists and agronomists have been developing methods to produce double or triple the amount of food, using the same scale of land or less a farmer may cultivate. One of these approaches currently gaining much attention and adaptation is the vertical gardening or farming method.

The notion of farming indoors is not strange to us, since greenhouse agricultural systems have been widely adopted for some time now. These houses have been used for years, providing conditions for numerous commercial crops (such as tomatoes, strawberries, peppers, and cucumbers) to thrive at its maximum production index. Cultivating under shaded facilities compared to outdoor farming fields can aid in yearround production, but few or none of these greenhouses have been constructed as multi-storey facilities.

Vertical farming is a method that uses vertically inclined surfaces to produce food, instead of the traditional method of growing vegetables on a single level in a greenhouse or open field. The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is currently evaluating the cost and productivity of various vertical-farming models.

The experiment is being conducted at NAREI’s compound, Mon Repos, ECD. The vertical models installed under the tunnel house are: vertical stack stand using PVC gutters, vertical trellis made of nylon, barrel model using recycled plastic drums, and vertical wall using recycled plastic bottles.

Using vertical farming techniques have numerous advantages, such as: year-round production; reducing soil erosion and runoffs; maximising the use of abandoned structures or unused spaces; minimising crop failures due to harsh weather conditions and reduces the use of fossil fuels, since less farm mechanisation is needed. It also creates new urban employment openings; adds energy back to the grid via methane generation; returns farmlands to nature, aiding in restoring ecosystem functions; reduces pest and disease indices; reduces the need for abundant use of pesticides and herbicides, and offers the possibility of a sustainable food-production engine for our communities.

The experiment is being done to ascertain yields of a wide variety of crops needed to sustain large populations, without exhausting existing resources. With the success of this study, local households in Guyana can better uti-

NAREI staff harvesting and inspecting various crops planted in the vertical stack stand model, using PVC gutters

lise yard space to produce their foods at a cheaper cost and local farmers can increase productivity to reach consumer demand.

In addition to that, this method can be utilised to combat major challenges faced due to climate variation in Guyana, such as flooding.

Art & Essay Competitions for UN International Year of Fruits and Vegetables MINISTER of Agriculture, the Hon Zulfikar Mustapha recently launched the Ministry of Agriculture’s Art and Essay Competitions in observance of the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables.

Those at the launch included Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Mr. Jagnarine Singh; Country Representative of The Food and Agriculture Organisation, Dr. Gillian Smith, Country Representative of IICA, Mr Wilmot Garnett.s The ministry collaborated with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), to launch Guyana’s programme of activities for the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021 under the theme, “Good for You.” Guyana’s programme of activities includes the art and essay competitions, Fruits and Vegetables Exhibition, Farmer’s Markets, raising awareness on the food-safety standards and guidelines for fruits and vegetables and prevention of food loss and waste.

Minister Mustapha noted that the consumption of fruits and vegetables is paramount to promoting a balanced and healthy diet and lifestyle, as well as achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals of Zero Hunger. Fruits and Vegetables are “Good for you,” they are rich in vitamins, minerals and are an excellent source of dietary fibre and they strengthen our immune systems. They are also a good way to generate income for farmers.

“With the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting the food supply and linkages, the need to transform and rebalance the way food is produced and consumed has become even more apparent. The observance of the International Year of Fruits and vegetables 2021 is a timely reminder of the importance of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition, food security, health and economic prosperity,” the minister stated.

According to NAREI’s CEO, Mr. Jagnarine Singh, the launch represents an important milestone in Guyana’s agricultural development index and serves as a reminder of the importance of fruits and vegetables for healthy lives.

“The Government of Guyana through its agency NAREI is tasked with delivering technology to farmers that will allow increased production and productivity,” he added.

Mr. Singh noted that by 2030 the world’s population is projected to grow to roughly 8.3 billion people. This is an opportune time for our farmers and producers to look at more innovative ways in which the value-added sector can be better transformed, taking Guyana to a sustainable food and agricultural sector.

sharing their journeys XXVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

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

van Phillips -- born in St Lucia, living in

owards being a Midwife of Purpose came being broken, displaced, and ough this journey, I experienced a divorce, e and got displaced education administrator’s position. Coupled were two major eclipses y life. An eclipse happens when you can calling becomes greater than your current hrough this process, you can transcend to a hinking where you can connect with your ourself as one with nature. lett – born in Guyana and living in NY egan to have the real experience of dreammy dream world alive. I was immediately nterview with the agency where they tested n using Microsoft Office and typing speed.

One week later I completed my assignment with CTO and was now ready to move on to my next career move.

I called Monique to let her know I was available as we agreed and she was so happy to have me start my first temporary assignment with Deutsche Bank. My first

A wedding I will never forget I AM beginning to think that July is the month to create invaluable life experiences. I created many priceless memories last weekend and it feels great! They were so many that it felt as if I stole some moments for others. Chatting on the swing with my grandson JJ and keenly listening to the stories of the books he read and some moments in school online. He is such a smart and confident kid who consistently displays love and compassion. I shared with him some of the things I am working on, and he had so many questions. I have never had a mathematical mind like him assignment lasted two weeks, covering someone’s vacation.

Due to my work ethic and desire to go the extra mile, I landed another assignment in the same department for six months, then another for three months, which finally led to my permanent position, allowing me to live a dream.

Dr. Safeeya Mohamed – Trinidad We received the updates that the accident was horrific and that the victim was stuck in the car.

The vehicle had to be cut open to get to the victim. It never occurred to me that my brother could be remotely involved. The next thing I remember, I was looking at the body of my brother covered in blood in a hearse. The strident, agonising scream of my mother in the A&E that early morning has not escaped my mind almost 17 years later as she howled “my son died, my son died, nobody’s helping us!” But nobody could, as his spirit departed at the point of impact. Up to this day, I ponder where the strength came from to navigate that night.

Shanon Paar – Arizona

I knew that I would be in When I was six years old I started school in Mesa, big trouble if I told my dad Arizona, so I began staying what had happened. It was a secret: the with my mom kind that could get me and her husband routinely. It was like going from into big trouble. I didn’t heaven to hell. It was a horror know how much trouble, but story that’s yet to be writ- I wasn’t willing to take a chance. “Shhhh... ten. While at grandma’s I was filled with the love of Don’t tell anyone.”

Maybe it’s the trauma of a grandma and Jesus daily.

On the other hand, at my my experience, but for some mother’s house, I was filled reason I still cannot rememwith Rock ‘N Roll, drugs ber how often it happened, when and inappropriate, wild sex parties. Ultimately, from it started, or even when it such an environment you can ended imagine the kinds of abuse Penny Phakahi –South that mom’s house provided.

When I was 11 years old, Africa I have had my share of grandma Shirley died and my stepdad left. My mom had turmoil and I strongly believe an emotional breakdown, so that it is these stints of turI ran away! I couldn’t take moil that brought me and he never fails to engage me in mental calculation using this far in my life. I was any more. big numbers. Lol. He also had a lot of fun with Niya, who is Andrea Edwards – born and perhaps is still in my my adorable newprocess. pet. It is a blessing looking and him and refinery in Guyana, living in Florida my mom, who is his greatgirl, grandmother.

She experiences so As a young I grew As I sat in the back of much joy with her grandson and great-grandson.

My taste my dad’s Nissan Bluebird, I up with one main ambition, in music was influenced by my mom, who has amazing peered through the windows wanting to get away, far taste. Weaway listened of her fromto thesome system of favourite songs from the at the images on Bee Gees,or Air Supply, Lionel Ritchie, and many thinking the box that the fence of the Beetles,the Guyothers.

My mom and JJ love my chicken foot, so I decided ana Botanical Gardens and we often find ourselves in. make some sugar cakes with milk. My friend Raquel Apartand from understanding Zoological Park. The to radio the right moment I always daredand to enjoyed my snacks while blasted the popular passed atmyself chatting with mom.

I actually saw aRaq the day before also be different, which was calypso song “1985” by with ourconstant other friend, Tanaka. Mikiko is one of struggleMikiko when sura then-popular calypsonian. the coolest diplomats I have met. Next time you are at the rounded by my situations.

I I would have just celebrated Marriottgrew please the delicious burger named after upcheck under out a strict my sixth her. That is Christian super cool!

I find family withmyself my attracted to genuine birthday, quite oblivious people no pretence. grandfather and step granny, to the concept of time, but with I believe thatmother is whylost I enjoyed Jessica and Eon’s wedding. as my her mom that song would not allow me to forget I can count the weddings andXXV funerals I have attended, and I SEE PAGE that it was 1985. joked about not being sure I would turn up at mine.

I received a call during the week from Jessica Hadfield to invite me to their wedding on Saturday. The call had me cracking up because of how she told me about the wedding.

I accepted the invitation because they are my friends and I know the wedding would be different. I decided I needed a makeup look by Jesse from Dash Boutique to complement my three-layer floral and plain asymmetrical dress. I arrived at Pergola Restaurant at the Courtyard Mall just after 15:00hrs SEE PAGE XXVIII

XXVII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Children’s cash grants are good but let’s remember enduring educational XXVII XX challenges too Aye or no for

8, 2021

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 28, 2021

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, March 7, 2021

A year of parliamentary decorum?

COVID-19

A COLLEAGUE asked me without addressing the real recently how I felt about challenges within the sector, the Ministry of Educa- such as the disproportionate tion’s $19,000 cash grant access to education and eduthat is now being disbursed cational opportunities. I will to all children in the pub- be one of the first persons to lic school system stark of disparities DURING now. this pastlament week’sthe edition ‘In the National ON March 11Parliamentarians last year, COVID-19 became a stark realAssembly,’ debated the 2021 National Without missing a beat, in our education system, ityBudget, inIGuyana. it had earlier already spreading whichThough wasespecially-but presented inbegun the month

by SeI replied that supportnot limited across the globeinathe fewOffice months before, this novel nior Minister of the President with coronaresponsied it- if for nothing else to-the divide between hintervirus became a great concern for Guyana and many of bility for finance, Dr. Ashni Singh.

The debate, however, than because we are in countries a land and schooling. the Caribbean only coastal during March.

From the spotlighted a lack of decorum in the Parliament. pandemic and had justGuyana However, I do not believe very we beginning, was and exposed to the stark It is both understandable acceptable for the reality different faced disastrous flooding. that the cash grant is the because the first person the local health authorities dis--sides of the house -- the government and opposition sides The foregoing disasters, sole mechanism being used covered infected, died. to have was opposing views on the budget. After all, the national however, arebudget not the only to these challenges.

Guyana’s story ofthe theaddress pandemic, at least in the beginning, illustrates government’s vision, priority areas, isand aoftruly unique one. direction, Certainly, thewritten country wastowards not as prejustifications ageneral cash grant I havesince before policy it points what it programmes should been to conduct testing, dointends contactto scheme, andpared moreasso, a cash have about the provision of all policies, and plans the government grant scheme aims money to textbooks usethat Guyana’s to fund. and learning mabenefit the nation’s children. terials for to pupils students It would be strange each and member to agree on Certainly, $19,000 is not the country, so thathave difevery single thing,across since various individuals ferent priorities and perhapsimpact different sides enough to support a child and theviews disproportionate theI house have of different plans, projects, or policies year-round. of But, can apthe pandemic (and the guide Guyana’s developments; and, that is preciate that that it is awould welcome resulting virtual schooling) completely fine. “boost” in taking care of a could be mitigated. A noticeis neither understandable norbeen remotely acceptable, child. I visited ItMahaicony able effort has made to however, for elected officials, sworn in as Members of last week for the distribution create and distribute online Parliament (MPs), to openly hurl insults at each other and of the cash grants, and I lis- content for schoolchildren make racist, sexist, homophobic remarks. It is not acceptable tened to manyforparents speak not only for those who have this level of disrespect to be entertained in the National about their Assembly. intentions to access to Youtube and the purchase electronic tablets- Learning onhomophobic their The normalisation of racist,Channel sexist, and resomething that has innot televisions, butmight also through marks ourbeen common, social spaces be a conversation a priority forforthem to day, buybutflash drives CDs. another for crying outand loud, thisThese is our National simply because they didOr, notourare just recent Assembly!

Parliament, as examples it is more of commonly have the disposable interventions crafted specificalled. Itincome. is not touting at the bus park! the astonishment onepandemic-mode would experience, years As a student IImagine understand cally for the if they were to revisit the hansards. Instead of that empiricalfrom datanow, is needed education system. only well-articulated, thorough of the of $383.1 bilto analyse the tangible imWith myanalyses appreciation lion budget that presented for theon year 2021, there would pact of any intervention, butwasthe cash grant, one hand, remarks homophobia or thinly veiled the qualitativebedatathe signalling real, it would be remiss of me if I insults of an MP’s reproductive raw appreciation from peo- didcapabilities. not try to also advocate To be fair, however, there were a few salient presentaple- has been a potent factor for continued, improved, tions. On the first day of the debate, it is a point of pride in helping methat to understand new interventions to Amanza two women --and/or MPs Susan Rodrigues and why such an Walton-Desir initiative is not tackle our enduring educawho are also new Parliamentarians -- made a wasteful investment. challenggood presentationstion thatdisparities one wouldand expect at this forum.

I do agree that there are es.

Beyond the sort of emerThough this absence of decorum from many of the some children and some notgency response state MPs,is perhaps, a new occurrence in the into local context, households who might which we have been contributions thrust, it begs us toneed ask ourselves: what valuable are elected officialslonger-term making at this forum? should the “boost”our while others solutions would the leaders by the people may not; and itOne is for thishopebethat crafted for theelected education of Guyana, whethersystem. in government opposition, reason I can understand We must or think about would maintain certain level in the house. In diswhy there would bea calls how of thedecorum same high-qualicharging their dutiestytowards the people of the it’s nation, at the for some financial eligibility resources (whether least, itthis is expected thatteachers, they would engage in critical criteria beforevery receiving trained Informaanalyses the budget. The budget debate should attempt to grant. The child of a of smalltion and Communication pinpoint deficiencies in allocations, or indicate what other scale farmer,areas for of example, Technologies, or just simply, priority should be focused on. may have a greater infrastructure) can where be transThis is need how youbetter operate in a democracy, than, say, a parency big businessprovided to all children, in This is and accountability are underpinning tenets. man. There how are two things theallsanctity schools. you respect of Parliament. And above all I recognise,else, however: the you adequately It has been promised is this how represent the people of the first is that such anyou eligibilthatto the $19,000 grant will nation committed serve?

Parliamentary affairs -- evity system could potentially be increased incrementally ery single aspect-- should be geared towards enhancing the development of the and nation citizenry. lead to concerns over a disthatand byits 2025, each child Admittedly, clever innuendos and witty remarks have criminatory disbursement should be receiving $50,000. been part presentations, not only in and second, long the money be-of parliamentary I have no qualms with that, Guyana, but around thelong world.

Thehave addition of clever satire ing distributed is not the so as we the finanits usefulness government’shasmoneyit is in cialcommunication, capacity to dono so doubt. (and I Much of what we saw last week, however, appeared to be a common the people’s money, so why do believe we will because bottom house or rumshop debacle, replete with “props” and shouldn’t everyone benefit of oil and its associated benall, that left much to be desired. from it? efits, and of allthe of that).

While Last December, Clerk National Assembly, Now, there are also conwe try to distribute this sum that the Sherlock Isaacs, told the Guyana Chronicle cerns that aParliament cash grantOffice is to all children (yes, training would arrangeequally and conduct merely a cosmetic interthose the said, private sessions for MPs. even Training, theinclerk is essential vention geared at appeasing because Parliamentarians need to learn how to draft SEE PAGE XXIX people for aquestions short period and motions, deal with standing orders, and, most importantly, need to learn about the duties of a Member of Parliament. This is particularly necessary

tracing, and patients to getsoahead the pandemic.

But, training of treat Parliamentarians that aof semblance of decorum that was not unusual; all countries across the globe had to could be maintained in the National Assembly. It is enviadapt quickly and contend with the pandemic. What was sioned that such training sessions would also help to guide unique about Guyana was its unfolding elections quagmire. the officials on proper parliamentary procedures.

It is not unreasonable to assume--because there is no But also, these events should force us to reconsider what real empirical evidence--that the protracted elections’ pewe accept from our encompassed--distracted elected officials -- all of riod--expect and alland of the shenanigans them-while they discharge their responsibilities towards Guyanese from this pandemic. While the pandemic ragedus.

Are they articulating our collective values when they on during the first few months, and we were embroiledmake in racist, sexist, homophobic, and not other derogatoryfor statements? our post-elections drama, it was uncommon there to be large gatherings and we had not yet developed an under-

standing the need forrepresenting the face masks, so cluster spreading Are theyofadequately us and our best interests was very possible. We owe our gratitude to all the frontline at all times? workers who were trying to keep the nation safe then, and who continue to do so even now.

I hope we can do better.

Aside from the political occurrences, however, it is wellknown that the pandemic also impacted every other sector.

If you would like discussschools this column or anyand of Business productivity wastostymied, were closed my previous writings, please feel free to contact me the tourism sector took the hardest hit with the closure via of vish14ragobeer@gmail.com borders and email: the constraints to leisure activities. The closure of schools eventually prompted a shift to virtual learning— ‘Zoom school’—which has been fraught with challenges due to inherent inequalities and disparities.

Social services, too, have been constrained, which has been particularly worrisome since the pandemic has disproportionately impacted the vulnerable groups in our society. With the slowdown in business directly contributing to a reduction or loss of income, social safety nets were necessary to support persons. Moreover, it has been found that the pandemic— perhaps due to the ‘stay-at-home’ focus— has contributed to a rise in abuse and domestic violence. These present even greater concerns over the construction of social services. As time and the pandemic progressed, however, efforts would be made to ensure that these disproportionate effects were mitigated, on all fronts.

To a large extent, nevertheless, we’re still navigating the complexities of this pandemic and trying to manage ourselves better. Now, however, we’re also contending with the emergence of newer, modified forms of the virus -- the variants, or strains as they are commonly called. The scientific and medical communities expected these variants would arrive at some point or the other, since viruses do mutate.

The variants that have emerged so far — the United Kingdom(UK), Brazil, and South African variants — all have the ability to infect more persons. If we’re not careful, their increased transmissibility could lead to a sharp rise in our cases, additional deaths, and an overwhelmed healthcare system. Guyana has not been able to identify whether we do any of these variants without our borders. We have been sending a few COVID-19 samples to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for testing, but those few samples were not variants. That is not enough to rule out the possibility that we have variants.

On the other hand, we’ve been able to secure a number of the COVID-19 vaccines and we have been vaccinating our frontline healthcare workers. Soon, other frontline workers, the elderly, and persons with comorbidities (underlying and undetected health conditions, such as diabetes) will be vaccinated too. The importance of vaccines is that they allow the body to create an immune response to the virus, thereby fighting off infection. And Guyana, incredibly, has been able to secure several vaccines in a short period amid global concerns of vaccine nationalism, where larger, wealthier countries are hoarding these vaccines for themselves.

But, even so, vaccines are not necessarily the ‘magic bullet’ for the population and there are, understandably, many concerns. Due to the perceived short period during which the vaccines were developed and granted emergency-use authorisation, concerns about the long-term benefits and impact of the vaccines linger. Additionally, the efficacy of the vaccines on the variants is still evolving. In Guyana, these concerns may contribute to the vaccine-acceptance rates unless greater efforts are made (or continued) to promote greater education, communication, and trust.

Despite this, we are still unsure when this pandemic may be over. Reasonable estimates project that we should return to a greater sense of normalcy by 2023 when all countries are finally expected to receive their vaccines and immunise their populations. We don’t yet know for certain, so this means that as we approach our ‘COVID anniversary’ we should be mindful that we still have to take all necessary precautions.

If you would like to discuss this column or any of

XXVIII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

A wedding I will never ... and was greeted by the enthusiastic groom looking dapper in a nice brown suit but not the traditional one. I love the rustic feel of this venue which suits the personality of the bride and groom and is perfect for a small wedding. I also admire Kester, who is the chef and owner. The groom was mingling with the guests and telling as about how they prepared. Eon is a famous singing chef, so it is hard for him not to prepare a few items for his birthday. It was difficult for him not to sing, but it was a song specially written for his wife this time. As his beautiful bride was approaching, he took his guitar and started singing:

When I first saw you in the park You were barefoot and naked in the garden I said ‘hey, what you got there in your bag

You said nothing It’s just an old bag and some clothes I’m gonna moon bathe myself as I decompose Oh woah ooh

In a perfect world I would be inside your waterfall When you call I’m stoking in I’ll be sitting in your secret garden

When I first saw you in the park You were barefoot and naked in the dark I said what you got there in your head You said nothing Just these bedroom eyes and some lead I hate it when these bugs get in my bed

FROM PAGE XXVI

Oh woah oohs

In a perfect world I would be inside your waterfall When you call I’m stoking in I’ll be sitting in your secret garden

MiIt’s such a long way to go To reach my destination But it’s just time it flows Without consternation

When I first saw you in the park You were barefoot and naked in the garden I said hey what you got there girl it glows You said nothing I suppose inside this empty heart I wanna make some noise

Chorus We were applauding and enjoying sharing in this priceless moment in time. It was obvious that the people in the room all loved and appreciated Jessica and Eon. Jessica came to Guyana from the UK years 12 ago and decided she loves it so much that she will make this beautiful land her new home.

Eon was born in Guyana but grew up in London, but they met in Guyana four years ago. My first encounter with Eon was at a function at the British High Commissioner’s residence and we hit it off immediately. The couple shared with us how

they met and was funny and unique. Fish was common in both stories, whether it was the spray or tuna lol. It was fascinating to hear them interrupting each other when sharing their respective version of their stories. When Eon was repeating his vows, Jess interjected with, “you are marrying me, so you need to look at me.”

Although they never met, they were in the same building in 1992 in London at Virgin office. Jessica worked for Virgin and Eon was signed with Virgin Records. Jessica was managing Adel’s Resort in the Pomeroon and invited Eon to explore this eco-resort, but we can tell how he went beyond the resort.

One day he had his locks up and she had a déjà vu moment and exclaimed, “I have seen this image before!” That is when SHE discovered that he was indeed sitting on the floor in the virgin office with the door open and she was passing on the way to her office. We all were like “WOW.” It felt as though we were on the set of a “real” reality show, but not with a made-up script.

Imagine the bride completing the sausage rolls just before getting ready for her big day? The menu had some delicious dishes that were different. Kester skilfully completed the cake shortly before the wedding commenced. Eon respects his work and has given him the first runner-up position for Chefs in Guyana and Eon had the number one position.

Let’s show up everyday wearing authenticity as we continue this beautiful journey BEYOND THE RUNWAY

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

THE LOCAL CONTENT POLICY FOR THE SUPPLY...

FROM PAGE XXIII with reviewing existing initiatives and policies about local content in the petroleum sector and guide the development of Guyana’s Local Content policy and legislation.

The work of the advisory panel would be supplemented with broad-based consultation with all relevant stakeholders and segments of civil society. The ministry cautiously summed up the process, declaring: “Having realistic and pragmatic targets in place is crucial before any action is placed towards Guyana’s legislative framework. Essentially, these targets will serve as a schedule of local content legislation”.

Vice-President Jagdeo was more detailed. He pointed out that the policy and the legislation which enshrines it provide more opportunities for the growth and development of local companies. “There are some sectors which we are putting into the law that could only have Guyanese businesses competing against each other . . . areas such as landscaping, logistics, transportation, food supplies, cleaning services and rentals will be reserved for Guyanese investors and players. . . Guyanese businesses will also benefit from a guaranteed percentage of operation in all other sectors”.

In addition to generating greater wealth and employment, the Local Content Policy will help to further Guyana’s economic transformation and stimulate partnerships between local and international companies, encouraging major investments and facilitating knowledge transfer.

Guyana remains ahead of several other oil and gas producing countries in its serious development of a Local Content Policy.

Several of them have no such policy yet, and it took decades for others to establish a well-balanced regime of such policies.

Trinidad and Tobago, for example, took nearly a century to create the comprehensive plan they have and Suriname.

However, they have had an oil and gas industry for several decades, are only now beginning to craft a policy. Guyana cannot indulge in self-congratulation, but must keep fully focused on effectuating the policy.

The Guyanese entrepreneurial community needs to be more proactive in seeking out and taking advantage of the many lucratively advantageous openings as the oil industry develops.

Children’s cash grants are good but let’s...

FROM PAGE XXVII schools), however, let us not forget that other efforts must be made to ensure that there is equity among our schoolchildren as well. That means increased access to resources, and opportunities, coupled with interventions geared at preparing the nation’s children for a digital, 21st-century world.

Before I end this column, let me also acknowledge that improving the education system cannot be done in a vacuum. Beyond education, we must also

think about tackling the challenges that contribute to inequality across our country. The unequal access to education and educational opportunities during this pandemic is just one illustration that not everyone has the same access to the same resources. I remain optimistic that we can get all of this right.

If you would like to connect with me to discuss this column or any of my previous works, feel free to email me at vish14ragobeer@gmail.com

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Is neocolonialism disguised as...

FROM PAGE XXIV

dress the various legacies left in Guyana. Research papers, evaluation papers, essays and even modules should be dispersed and made easily accessible for the citizens of Guyana.

The content of the information dispersed should be indigenized to Guyana and should remain factual to the truths our ancestors faced. The Ministries of Education, Culture, Finance and Human Services can also execute campaigns

and outreaches in rural areas. This can be done to allow Guyanese to self-actualize and break out of any generational cycle caused by colonialism. Most importantly, Guyana ought to rid the state of colonial systems, laws, regulations and ideals that promote oppression in any form. From our constitution to our schooling systems, political segregation and even the outdated infrastructure that was built. I do not believe that there is a place for reform. Rather, a structural deconstruction needs to occur, followed by building new indigenized systems.

While I’d like to see a deconstruction of colonial systems occur in Guyana, I do not think we will be able to accomplish that for now. It simply isn’t possible given our current context. We are currently undergoing an economic shift from being a developing country to being a developed one. This is good, but we still aren’t entirely free from “massa.” We have obligations and commitments to our partners in the oil industry. Guyana is also known for borrowing money for development and/or receiving foreign aid. Certain obligations and requirements should be made with donor countries before receiving finances from them. I consider myself an optimist, and I am hopeful that we will be able to make these indigenised structural changes one day. Hopefully, the oil industry allows Guyana to become prosperous, which will ultimately allow us to be autonomous.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

JULY 25, 2021 THOUGHT FOR TODAY A place for ever ything, and put everything in its place.

SAMUEL SMILE S (18121904) Thrift (187 5), ch. 5

Dear Student, Welcome, dear friend.

Are your uninspired for composition writing? Try some freewriting tips. View your topic. Encourage yourself. Welcome ideas from any place and time. But be aware, thoughts originate from reading, personal interests, real life events, your imagination, and such.

Write straight ahead as ideas flow. Do not edit yet. Ig-

nore spelling, punctuation, grammar, or even sense. If you get stuck, rewrite the last sentence, or await new pop-ups. When a sense of satisfaction comes, begin to shape your composition.

Love you.

THE PASSAGE Reading the printed word Useful reminder: It is good to read regularly. Regular reading promotes good reading strategies and the love for it. In addition to drawing information from a wide variety of general knowledge topics, regular reading boosts reader-confidence, vocabulary building and a sense of wisdom and understanding.

Mrs. Elzie F. Pickens was rocking slowly on the porch one afternoon when her great granddaughter, Tee, brought her a big bunch of dogwood blooms, and that was the beginning of a story.

“Ahhh, now that dogwood reminds me of the day I met your Great-granddaddy, Mr. Pickens, Sweet Tee. “It was just this time, spring of the year, and my best friend, Ovella Wilson, (who is now gone) and I, were going to join the Silas Greene. The show went all through the South. They called it the Silas Greene show; something like the circus. Ovella and I wanted to join the thing and see the world. Nothing wrong at home or anything, we just wanted to travel and see new things and have high times.

We didn’t say anything to anybody but each other. Just up and decided to do it.

“Well, this day we plaited our hair and put a dress and some things in a crokersack and started out to the show. It was a spring day like this.

“We got there after a good little walk, and it was the world. Baby, such music and wonders as never had seen! They had everything there, or seemed like it.

“Ovella and I thought that we’d walk around awhile and see the show before going to the office and sign up and join.

“While we were viewing it all, we came up on this dancing dog, the cutest little thing in the world next to you, Sweet Tee. He was dipping and moving, and

head bowing to music. He had a little fluffy skirt on itself and up on two back legs twisting and moving to the music. Dancing and dancing until people started throwing pennies out of their pockets.

“Ovella and I were caught up too. We were laughing so much! She took a penny out of her pocket and threw it to the ground where the dog was dancing, and I took two pennies and threw them both.

“The music went faster and faster and that dog was turning and turning....”

(Based on “The Luckiest Time of All” by Lucille Clifton) Using The Passage The story is based upon luck, where Mrs. Elsie F. Pickens’ ‘lucky stone’ hit a dancing dog on its nose and caused it to race the two friends around the Silas Greene. Of course, the beginning of the story tells about the meeting that resulted.

Have you observed that the story is told in dialect? Dialect is a form of language spoken by people in a specific region or group.

Dialects differ from standard formal language in pronunciation, grammar, and word choice.

Something to Do 1. How does the informal language contribute to the feeling that readers are listening to a story told aloud?

2. Why did Ovella and Elize go to the Silas Greene show? What does it tell about Elize when she was a young woman?

3. Do you feel that Elize has been happy with her life? Give your opinion.

4. Write a story where a girl meets her husband when he rescues her by capturing the dog that is chasing her?

Personal Check What have you mastered in your writing thus far?

Have you carefully searched your productions and itemised your high skills? Of course, you now know what aspects you need to maximise. Maybe they include a few on this list: 1. Improvement of ex-

pression – You have paid attention to the kinds of sentences used; also, enough sentence variety.

2. Subject-predicate order – Sometimes it is enhancing to put the predicate first in a sentence or two.

3. Grammar – Adapt your writing style to your young audience especially. A young audience needs simple sentences and easy-to-understand vocabulary.

4. Dialogue – You have used dialogue to advance your story to create a sense of time and place, tell about character, foreshadow possible trouble, and move the plot along.

Tag lines have been used along with a description of character, like facial expression, tone of voice, gestures, and mannerisms in some cases.

GRAMMAR Do-you-remember exercises Which of the following groups of words are sentences? Which are fragments?

Tell what each segment lacks.

1. Pelting bullfrogs form the edge of the dam.

2. Once they do their homework, they can play.

3. Pays library fees by the hour.

4. They can tell the rotten ones even though they were never trained in the skill.

STUDY SKILLS Working in groups Right now, you are finding that you cannot always study alone in some areas and topics. You have discovered over the years that working closely with others has often paid off.

For such study to be successful and fulfilling its purpose, you and your study partners need to follow certain rules and procedures.

1. You must agree on the purpose of study for each session if it comes to that.

2. You must plan the procedure or technique to be mainly employed.

3. Have needed study materials and equipment on hand.

4. Remind that annoying study partner that discipline must always be her watchword.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021

Toxins in the mouth THE teeth are a large part of the puzzle of health and disease. There are several scenarios in which the teeth and the way dentists work with the teeth can play a role in disease. Sometimes we are not aware of some of the consequences we face.

There are common types of metals that are being utilised in dental work, such as crowns, amalgam fillings and dentures. When placed in the mouth, these metals are sitting in a medium of saliva, which turns the mouth into a charged battery. We call this charge “galvanic toxicity.” The brain is a collection of millions of nerve fibres that is essentially a battery emitting electrical charges throughout the body. The galvanic toxicity in the mouth is bombarding and overstimulating the brain. Common signs and symptoms of galvanic toxicity are a metal taste in the mouth, an electrical charge with utensils and insomnia. Occasionally, a person can have a toothache only because there is gold and amalgam in the mouth. The “shocking” sensation is really coming from the battery they have created.

Teeth are similar to organ systems in the body in that they also acquire a blood supply, lymphatic and venous drainage, and nervous innervations. Root canals are dead teeth. It is not one, if not the worst, source of chronic bacterial toxicity. If the heart or liver or any other organ in the body dies, it will have to be removed, otherwise, septicemia sets in and the patient can die. Yet, the teeth are commonly left dead in the body, often as stumps.

Teeth have roots with main canals and thousands of side canals and contained in those sides are miles of nerves from the main canals. However, they do not have access to the microscopic side canals, which have dead nerves left behind in those spaces.

Anaerobic bacteria, which do not require oxygen to survive, thrive in the side canals to grow and excrete toxicity from digesting necrotic tissue, leading to chronic infection.

Blood supply and lymphatics surrounding those dead teeth drain this toxicity and spread throughout the body. This toxicity will invade all organ systems and can lead to a plethora of diseases such as autoimmune diseases, cancers, musculoskeletal diseases, irritable bowel diseases, and depression.

Gum disease is another vehicle in which bacteria can spread throughout the body. Classic signs of gum disease are bleeding upon brushing or flossing the teeth, red, swollen

gums and bad breath.

The following is an actual case study from my office in which I saw a patient who presented for an initial dental visit. She related to a three-year history of breast cancer treated conventionally. Three years later, her cancer recurred and she decided to seek alternative treatment rather than conventional treatment. She sought therapies for five months by two well-known physicians practising these therapies.

She then followed up with my office to get a complete dental exam and diagnosis.

I took her history and examined the patient. Since her diagnosis of cancer, all of the physicians, conventional and alternative, failed to ask or even consider her dental history as a necessary part of other treatment, or the possible association or connection to the root of the disease. It is not surprising that conventional physicians do not look at the

dental history as being associated with any disease process, but is certainly absurd that alternative physicians failed even to consider it.

Upon my examination, several acutely infected teeth, a root canal, and severe gum disease were totally missed.

Certainly, the conventional therapies and the alternative therapies that this patient received will most likely fail, as this patient continues to harbour infection in her mouth that has chronically compromised her immune system and has weakened her overall ability to eliminate toxicity and to heal

as a whole.

In reality, the toxicity that continues to thrive in her mouth is being carried by the blood and lymphatic system to all areas of her body and is contributing to her inability to fight cancer. So it’s important to look at the situation as a whole and the mouth as an essential part of our health and to the contribution of disease.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, July 25, 2021