Guyana Chronicle PepperPot E-paper 12-30-2018

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Ringing in the New Year!

II

Reflections of a wonderful journey

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Octogenarian chronicles her adventures

By Frederick Halley AT the ripe old age of 86, Thelma Tappin has spent 60 of those years in Canada, having migrated there in 1958 from her homeland then-British Guiana. Still bustling with energy and looking fit as a fiddle, Thelma has ventured into the world of writing, producing her first book – “Reflections of A Wonderful Journey.” According to Thelma, “This book is dedicated to my mother, who was taken from us much too early, and my siblings who shared the burden of that loss. It is my solemn hope that the title of this book, at a glance, would create enough interest that persons would want to read the life’s journey of a humble person.” In “Reflections of A Wonderful Journey”, Thelma tells of her early life in British Guiana, what prompted her to migrate, her many travels abroad to several countries in Europe, Africa and the Dominican Republic among others, while paying tribute to her only son who died tragically in August 2017. Recalling her mother died in child’s birth with one of her siblings when Thelma was just seven, the octogenarian, who was middle of eight children, described the passing thus: “Our world stopped and when it started again, it went into many different directions as we were children. I don’t think there is anything more devastating for a child than the separation of their siblings. It had a profound effect on me.”

Forced to live with her godmother, Thelma pointed out that although she was comfortable, “the continuous longing for my siblings made it difficult for me to be happy. I never felt [like] I belonged. I went to St Philip’s Anglican School and although there was no secondary schooling for me, I had a good foundation that paved the way for many future opportunities.” MOVING ON Thelma left her godmother’s home to live with a cousin and later with her elder sister. Doreen, and according to her, “life progressed with its many twists and turns of new responsibilities of caring for oneself, thinking of boyfriends and parties and paying attention to politics, world affairs, or just plain economics of everyday life.” Thelma recalled that “in the midst of all of this came the most opportune moment in time for young and not so young women in the country. This started in the early 1950s with Jamaica and Barbados. Later Trinidad and British Guiana were added and through some arrangement with the government of Ottawa, the region and Guyana, an arrangement was made to send women as domestic help to Canada.” After missing the first and second batches, Thelma, who was then employed at Atkinson Field Guest House, was selected for the third and departed British Guiana on November 9, 1958. “The reality of where I was going was beginning to set in. At least most of us had never left home to travel anywhere in the country by ourselves. This was Autumn, the beautiful fall season.”

The front cover of “Reflections of A Wonderful Journey”

A NEW WORLD After a few days in Montreal, Thelma arrived in Toronto on November 12, having been already assigned to her employers. She disclosed that “our time in the service was one year after which we were free to move in any direction that suited us.” During that time also, Thelma took advantage of going to night school while awaiting the sponsorship of her husband. Thelma went back to British Guiana for Christmas in 1961 and married Cecil who migrated to Canada two years later. The union bore two kids, Beverly in 1964 and Gordon the following year. Following the completion of a data entry course which saw her receiving a Diploma, Thelma gained employment at the Federal Income Tax Office. Now fully settled, or so it seemed, Thelma was ready to start her travels. Urged on and accompanied by a friend from Montreal, she set out on a threecity show tour of Amsterdam, Paris and London. “We visited the Van Gogh Museum with its famous paintings and naturally had to have a canal boat ride. We were totally blown away in the great Paris. In 1973, Paris was still like an impossible dream to us but then we were now Canadians in Canada much closer,” she said. Thelma’s next sojourn, which was at the behest of a co-worker, took her to the Holy Land (Jerusalem) and Greece. “This was even more unimaginable than the first trip. Everything about this trip was awesome, to think you are walking in the footsteps of where Jesus might have trod. “The little we saw of Greece was tantalising, as we had to leave all too soon for our trip home. I could only pray that much

Thelma Tappin (right) hands over a copy of her book to Guyana’s Consul General to Toronto, Anyin Choo

of what I had seen and learned would be indelibly etched on my heart. This was the trip of a lifetime.” PAYING IT FORWARD With most of her family members now in Canada, Thelma felt the urge to give back to the land of her birth. She managed to attract some others and soon they were shipping a container of items, which included medical supplies, beds and kitchen utensils to the Georgetown Hospital. With the momentum revved up, the Guyanese Pioneer Fund-raising Group was born in May 1988 and among its ventures were worthwhile contributions to Guyanese who had suffered from the floods in 2005, and the tsunami in Indonesia the same year. “Through the years, nothing has given me more joy and satisfaction than [serving in] the presidency of the Guyanese Pioneer Fund-raising Group.” MORE TRAVELS In the interim, Thelma turned her attention to Africa with visits to Sudan, Nairobi, Khartoum and Kenya, the latter to see a little boy her family had sponsored for several years. The summer of 2007 saw Thelma going on an international build with Habitat in the Dominican Republic for two weeks. The team consisted of nine females and three males. Touching on the experiences encountered during her travels, Thelma wrote: “You would think [that] coming from a poor country you have seen it all, but I tell you in travelling I have seen poverty such as I have never seen before…” “Now [after] almost 60 years in my adopted country, it affords me the luxury of numerous memorable and treasured events – the good, the bad and the indifferent. All can account for my growth, understanding and appreciation of the vicissitudes of life,” was how Thelma summed up her journey. Thelma’s world was shattered one week after celebrating her 85th birthday on August 18, 2017, as while preparing to attend the Guyanese Pioneer Fund-raising Group barbecue, she received the horrific news that her son, Gordon, had a fatal accident. “As I let go and let God’s will be done in my life, I give thanks for the 50 wonderful years we have had Gordon and the many memories our family and his close friends have shared with us.”

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

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My Top Photographs of 2018 By Francis Quamina Farrier DURING the year 2018, I was fortunate to be able to take scores of photographs across three con-

tinents - Africa, North America and South America. Here are some photos which I have selected from the many which I really love. It is my hope that you have had

Steelpan ecstasy. USAbased, Trinidadian pan player, Lennard Jack, Jr., is caught up in the crescendo of the piece he was playing on his tenor pan at a concert in Washington, DC, at which he was the lead performer. Lennard is a long-standing member of the prize-winning Washington DC-based Pan Masters Steel Orchestra which has members with roots in many Caribbean countries, including Guyana.

Airline pilot and fashion connoisseur, Beverley Drake, who is among the very few living Guyanese whose image is on a postage stamp, was photographed viewing the British Guiana One-Cent Magenta Postage Stamp, which is on display at the Smithsonian American Postal Museum in Washington, DC., next to the Union Station. This photograph was taken on October 26, 2018.

the same pleasure viewing those photographs of mine, and the stories accompanying them, as I have. Best wishes to you and yours for a prosperous 2019.

President and CEO of Federal Management Systems, Inc., Mr. Aubrey Stephenson, AA, of Guyana, and Bishop Seth Abbey of Ghana have a special relationship. Aubrey Stephenson, whose middle name “Aggrey”, is of Ghana, has been making financial contributions to the Calvary Apostolic Ministry, Inc., of which Bishop Abbey is the Spiritual Leader, from its founding 40 years ago. Stephenson has also been making contributions to many Guyanese, especially with scholarships to young people. The headquarters of Federal Management Systems, Inc. is located in Washington, DC. in the USA. Stephenson is a native of Buxton on the East Coast Demerara.

Romancing their iPhones. At the top is an evening sky over Manhattan, New York City. Below it, the eastern side of Manhattan, with the United Nations Headquarters at the centre. Below that is the East River. In the foreground is a young couple romancing, but not each other, just their iPhones. I took this photo from Long Island City in Queens, while looking at the world’s most wealthy island city borough - Manhattan. This photo was taken on June 15.

Tourists at the Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, Ghana. This West African country is very serious about Tourism, having declared 2019 as, “The Year of Return”. Here at this Memorial Park, is the body of Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who was overthrown in a bloody coup d’etat, and died abroad in Guinea. However, his body was returned and reburied at this park, which was established to his honour and memory. It is one of Ghana’s top tourist attractions. I took this photo on September 29, while on a visit to Ghana.

The Minister and the Professor. Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Nicolette Henry, MP and Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, engage each other in a rapt discussion. This was at the end of a forum on the Literary Arts, which was held at the Theatre Guild Playhouse in Kingston, Georgetown, on November 5, 2018. I was about to interrupt the two to say, “hello”, but felt it more prudent to take this photograph instead, as a light beamed down on them.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Social Cohesion Sensitisation Programme hosted in Baramita THE Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport collaborated with the Baramita Ministerial Task Force to conduct a Community Outreach and a Social Cohesion Sensitisation programme in Baramita which commenced on December 13 and concluded December 15. During this period, the residents were engaged in activities which were all hosted with the aim of improving their lives and fostering development within the community through social and economic development. The five-day outreach was hosted in keeping with the

mission of the Department of Social Cohesion to support actions that strengthen key partnerships across sectors and facilitate bridging gaps within and across communities to foster social, economic and cultural development in the process of creating enriched lives for all Guyanese. At the opening of these activities, Ms. Olive Gopaul, Technical Officer within the Department of Social Cohesion educated the residents on the work of her department. She urged the residents to actively participate in the process of building a unified

Ms Olive Gopaul, Technical Officer within the Department of Social Cohesion hands over sports gear and equipment to Ms. Jennifer Williams, Headmistress of Baramita Primary School

Coaching session with Coach Gordon Brathwaite

country and to understand what it means to have access to social and economic equality, job opportunities and safety within their community as those are areas identified for improvement within the community following the establishment of the Baramita Ministerial Task Force. Mr. Balogun O. Osunbiyi, Senior Psychologist attached to the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Public Health, through his presentation addressed the challenges of the community stemming from diminished mental health resulting from depression and alcohol consumption. He engaged the residents in activities which highlighted the ills of consuming alcohol and the positives of channeling their energy into activities such as sports. Mr. Osunbiyi also addressed the high incidence of suicide plaguing the community by high lighting preventative and supportive measures to combat this occurrence. To encourage residents to participate in various sports as an outlet to foster a greater sense of cohesion within the community as well as access to the opportunities provided through participating in sports, the collaboration of the Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport and the Baramita Ministerial Task Force resulted in the formation of the Baramita Sports Club, the first official sports club within the community. The executive of the club is expected to provide guidance in all aspects of sport participation for members of the club. Initial coaching sessions were conducted by Coach Gordon Brathwaite of the National Sports Commission who provided training to club members and potential coaches from December 13-17, 2018. Speaking to the community on the importance of sport participation, Ms. Melissa Dow-Richardson, Assistant Director of Sport, Department of Sport further encouraged the residents to become active members of the Baramita Sports Club. Ms. Dow-Richardson in her discussion on the Role of Sports in the Development of the Lives of Young People within the community of Baramita engaged residents on the various

sports which are currently active in Guyana as well as the benefits of sports to physical health, socialising, mental, health, academic achievement and positive contributions to community development. Upon conclusion of the activities hosted, residents expressed satisfaction with the intervention; Mr. Eustace Smith who represented the Jehovah Witness’ organisation within the community

Residents of Baramita during the sensitisation session

expressed heartfelt gratitude for the initiative. He stated that the community is in need of greater efforts to combat the challenge of illiteracy faced by the community and added that his organisation, will support any initiative which will help to empower the residents and bring development to the community. Toshao of Baramita, Sharmain Rambajue also expressed her views, stating that “Anything which will help the young people stay away from alcohol will be good. I see sports and education as outlets because then they will channel their energy in that direction; that way they can help to develop the community.” Further, discussions with the newly signed members of the club displayed a sense of enthusiasm among the youth; 28-year-old Kevon Elkena also voiced his opinion on the formulation of the Baramita Sports Club, “This sports club will benefit everybody who is interested in sports. We need a sports club where the young people in the community can actually come together and do things other than partying and drinking.” The outreach concluded with the official handing over of sports gear and equipment to the executive of the newly formed Baramita Sports Club and a brushcutter donated to the community of Baramita by Farfan and Mendes through the Department of Social Cohesion.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

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Reminiscing on Christmas in the Hinterland

By Shirley Thomas

IF EVER there’s an occasion that gels or brings together practically an entire neighbourhood in peace, love and celebratory style, engendering an attitude of caring and sharing, regardless of grudges held earlier in the year, it’s Christmas. And the epitome of that kind of flavour would be the hinterland neighbourhood – God-fearing, less populated and where people tend to know and look out for each other. Even as Christmas is behind us, the Pepperpot Magazine looked at two such communities – Mabaruma in the North West Region and Pomeroon; a riverine community in the Essequibo. Carol Gonsalves, born and bred in the Pomeroon, but now residing in Georgetown with her family, nostalgi-

members being scarcely able to conceal their excitement as they tear the gift packages open. And of course, as anywhere else in Guyana, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas in those communities without lavish spending and big cooking and serving of the traditional dishes such as hot and spicy pepper, garlic pork, baked chicken, ginger beer, black cake and other types of cake, alongside beverages including sophisti-

Original products of the Pomeroon. Carol Gonsalves, her daughter and grandchildren, combine efforts to promote the sale of cassareep and other items at her stall in Stabroek Market

cated wines – from alcoholic to non-alcoholic flavours. And you cannot forget the Pepperpot, she said, which, having become practically a symbol of the Guyanese Christmas cuisine, in addition to being made using beef and pork, incredibly, is now being made using chicken. A time of celebration for Sunday School juniors of Bumbary Hill Pentecostal Church, North West Region, overlooked by Pastor Victor Hernandez and wife Elder Anita Hernandez

cally recalls the thrill of what Christmas was like back home through the ages, and how households would invest and enthusiastically look forward to the occasion. “Christmas in a community such as the Pomeroon where I grew up, is first and foremost recognised and acknowledged as the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ Child. But that apart, it is more of a family reunion; a period of atonement and healing when folks tend to throw away their cares and mend differences,” she said. “It’s a time when folks seek to get the home in tip-top shape - doing a bit of fresh painting; changing curtains and generally seeking to get the home to take on an urban look. Essentially there is a lot of shopping, for months ahead some people engage in ‘throwing box’ in order to amass the amount of money required to buy - be it items of furniture, or some other household item.” She stated that another highly anticipated event is the exchange of gifts, with family

OLD TRADITIONS And many of the practices are traditions held near and dear because it is simply tradition. It is said that what-

ever you do, don’t forget to have Grannie’s bowl of soup with fresh ground provision, beef, chicken and ‘loud cow heel on the dinner table. That observance is a rule of thumb, failing which you may well incur the wrath of grannie. And the story is told about a young couple in Mabaruma spending their first Christmas renting a 92-year-old land lady’s house, and offering to prepare lunch for her on that day. When eventually lunch was served, it was a meal of delicious and well-prepared chowmein. But on seeing it, Grannie was indignant and almost hit the roof, daring them to serve her chowmein on Christmas Day – a day specially set aside for soup, the old woman said. She made do with the salad along with black cake and ginger beer and whatever else was available, but never quite forgave the couple for neglecting to give her soup on Christmas Day. Turn to page XXVI►►►

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Transformations

Young scholar looks back on how far she has come By Vanessa Braithwaite

Kayshell collecting the Li An Shan Award for Excellence in African Studies

THE day she got accepted into the 2015 Government of Guyana Public Service Ministry scholarship to China, was the day she would never forget. She put down the basket that kept the 80 packs of chicken-foot she had just sold and with tears in her eyes and tears in her mother’s eyes she knew that her life had just started. To her, it was the answer to her prayers and the blessing of her faith through all the challenges she experienced as a teenager trying to get the best of her education. Kayshell Jennings is a Linden girl who spent five years in Georgetown while attending the Bishops’ High School. That move presented many challenges, but little did she know, it was preparing her for a greater move. She then returned to Linden to complete CAPE at Mackenzie High School. She was very smart and therefore was recommended for the scholarship since she excelled at Biology and the general sciences. “In September 2015, I was now once again leaving home, this time, 14,000 kilometres away to China!” On the plane, mixed emotions overwhelmed her, of course, she was excited, but could not shake the thought of leaving her mom, Monique Mc Pherson, who was the sole provider for her siblings. Her parents divorced when she was 10 years old, and her mother commenced a business selling the well-known Guyanese snack ‘chicken-foot’ to provide for them. She had assisted her mom greatly and felt that leaving would dampen the business. Her mom assured her, that all is well with God and nothing would bring her more happiness than to see her baby girl achieve her dream of becoming a doctor. “What I want to thank my mom the most for, is for letting me go and letting me discover what I want to do on my own. My mom has provided guidance in decisions but never forced any of her ideas on me. I watched my mom use her hands to build a house and feed three children, never once taking a loan from the bank. She is a great chef,” she said. “I

Kayshell at an event in China

must say she’s the best chicken-foot maker I know and even though I couldn’t make it, I became the best chicken-foot packer and seller. I sold 80 packs of chicken-foot per day. I almost got stuck with the name ‘chicken-foot girl’. But thank God he never lets our circumstances define us.” FIRST FEW DAYS IN CHINA Being in a foreign land, where the culture is extremely different- the language was more confusing and the climate was difficult to handle- made adaptation harder for Kayshell, but she did not give up. Turn to page VIII►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

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The prison culture

Behind those guarded walls By M Margaret Burke

“MANY persons in prison who get involved in such riotous behaviour are not necessarily bad people, but the absence of segregation (due to unlimited space) cause persons to have to comply; because if you are deemed as an outsider you can be taken advantage of – you can be beaten; they can do a whole host of things to you; so persons, like it or not, for their safety think it is easy to become compliant with the wrong things instead of trying to be right and having to face the hardship of imprisonment,” were the words of Gladwin Samuels, Chief Prison Officer. He stated that this situation occurs because the hardcore or seasoned offenders are sometimes mixed with the minor offenders; the un-convicted having to be mixed with the convicted; or those who are on remand for trial. Because of a space problem, people can become much more vulnerable. So

skill training. They were even exposed to religious teaching, which has the potential to calm prisoners; to bring them to a position where they understand that there is a Supreme being. Whether they believe in Jesus Christ; whether it is that they are Muslims, Hindus- whatever it is. Those persons knowing that there is some Supreme power that they can go to, it tends to cause them to behave differently,” he assured. Samuels stated that he was very concerned that some staff members within the organisation capitalise on the opportunities where prisoners may want to act outside of the law. “Some persons would want to smoke weed, some persons would want to drink rum and other such misbehaviours. Unfortunately, some persons within the system seem to collude in allowing these items to get to prisoners and that by itself creates more of a security hazardous environment. This is especially so for those prisoners who are compliant and also staff members who are not involved in such activities. Because,

Mr. Gladwin Samuels, Director of Prisons

like it or not, when a man is drunk he is not going to choose who he will assault and many times it is the innocent who are the persons that suffer.”

A section of what used to be the Georgetown prison

again persons just decide that they should get involved, than to be viewed as a snitch and having to face the harsh realities of the prison. SENTENCE PLANNING UNITS Samuels said that the Sentence Planning Units at the various locations are tasked with doing an assessment of persons to identify their training needs; several times this is done, but actually being able to place someone in the programme is challenging and that situation has gotten even worse following the destruction of the Camp Street prison. “At the Camp Street prison, we had a chapel that was being used for various activities, in terms of literacy training and

MENTALLY CHALLENGED Samuels said that he strongly believes that the prison is not the place for persons who are mentally challenged and that is ‘off the bat’. However, unfortunately, there are several persons who are in the system and are seriously mentally challenged, while there are others who are on the brink of going overboard. He added that the prison system is also quite aware of the fact that there are some side-effects associated with persons who use illegal drugs, and what are some of ‘withdrawal syndromes’, some of whom were regular drug users and do not have the resources to maintain the use of such drugs. Many times they are unable to cope with that and also lead to them operating strangely. Turn to page X►►►

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018 ◄◄◄ From page VI

“When I first came, I barely understood a word of Chinese. I walked around with a fork in my purse because I didn’t know how to eat with chopsticks. I remember going to restaurants and praying there were picture menus,” she recalled. “The atmosphere was very much different from that I was used to at home. The weather was also a major adaptation point, I lived up North so the winters were very cold and the summers [were] extremely hot. However, I learned that in the midst of a dry place, you just need that mustard seed of faith. And my faith did flourish.” On a lighter note, Jennings related that she was somewhat of a celebrity to the Chinese, especially the children who asked her if she ate a lot of chocolate to get such a brown complexion. She figured that she had to deal with these adaptation issues since she was already there and she had a mother and younger siblings back home depending on her. She also had two other Guyanese students along with her, and they helped each other. She commenced her Degree in Clinical Medicine in Beijing at the Peking University Health Science Centre, which is a high-ranking university in China. It’s a six-years programme and she has already successfully completed three. Once completed, Kayshell will graduate with an MBBS and is hoping to specialise afterwards in Infectious Diseases. “One amazing fact about this Degree is that my classes are in Mandarin. It’s been quite an adventure I must admit and requires me putting in extra effort to translate information ensuring I understand it in English as well. I thank God he has given me the grace and patience to continuously keep learning the new language, writing is still quite the challenge,” she said. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES It seems as though Kayshell has adapted quite well within the three years since she has ventured off, and has involved herself in a wide range of extra-curricular activities. She has a knack for volunteerism and was accepted in a Youth Ambassador Programme and U.S Embassy Youth Action Network of which she participated in the U.S.A. More surprisingly Kayshell has commenced part-time modelling. “My first experience was in the Peking University International Fashion Show with designers from around Beijing. I love taking pictures myself anyway, so when opportunities opened up through a favourite designer of mine to do a shoot for her jewellery line I could not resist. It was also excited to represent Guyana as a model at the DRC Diplomatic National Costume Competition in November. The display of rich culture helped us secure the Most Creative Award.” Kayshell has also hosted various events in China, such as the Africa/Asia Pacific Awards which was watched by thousands of persons around the world, and the Miss Mama Africa Pageant. She is also an English broadcaster on the ‘Butterfly Show’ on her University radio station and she received an award for Best English Broadcaster. Kayhsell is also currently the Vice President of the Peking University African Students Association, which caters to the wellbeing of African Students and members of the diaspora in her university. She recently received the ‘Li An Shan Award for Excellence in African Studies’ from the Centre of African Studies for her continued support and contribution to the understanding of Africa and African culture. “I truly believe this opportunity has opened up after coming to China and [increased] my desire to understand more of my heritage as an Afro-Guyanese,” she noted, and even got a chance to travel to Kenya for a missionary programme. “I am trying to get everything that God allows me to get and more. Since coming here I’ve learned a new language, begun to understand a new culture. I must say the diligent work ethic of the Chinese is one I admire; their desire to develop both personally and as a country. I hope that the medical skills and the medical technologies that I am exposed to will be an advantage for the Guyanese health system. “Also I intend to give to the Chinese people and other nationals I meet the best perception of Guyana. All of us are diplomats and ambassadors in our own rights. It gives me great joy when I engage with Chinese and other nationals about my country and it has left great impressions. I must say the Guyanese community in China has been serving to leave a positive effect,” she said. In 2021, when she walks across that stage at graduation, she will walk across knowing her time in China was more than medicine, it was a lifetime of experience that she never saw, even in her peripheral vision when she was walking the streets of Linden selling chicken-foot. With this, she is encouraging all youths who may be battling challenges at home to never limit themselves and their dreams because they can become a scholar too. “Everyone says to think outside the box but I’m challenging the person reading this that there is no box. The world is yours, throw away a few of those stereotypes and be the best you can be, not only for your family, or your community or country, but the world as a whole. Be a citizen of the world.”

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

IX

How you can achieve your New Year resolutions JUDGING by the time of year and the title of this week’s piece, it is within every writer’s interest to remain relevant. Christmas is officially over and it’s that period where we patiently wait on January 1 to arrive as if it is supposed to bring us an automatic better life and opportunities. At the age of 18, I can sadly say that on January 1, it has always been a burst of happiness on 12:00 AM and by 12:10 AM, I am either sleepy or back to normal. Some of you might disagree but that’s how I have always seen January 1. It has always been a continuation of my normal lifestyle. I have never been the type of person to upkeep a New Year’s resolution either. I hope I’m not starting to sound like a boring, unenthusiastic person about a holiday that probably means much more to many of you because I am trying to change that now. It is not that I don’t believe in the concept of a New Year’s resolution, I innocently just never seemed to be interested in completing one up until now. In my research

and findings, I have read and have come to an understanding that it is just much more than just a concept with a fancy title to force ourselves to complete tasks we normally refuse to do or we’re usually uninterested in. A New Year’s resolution should include an achievable/attainable goal with a purposeful aim. A resolution should be more of a ‘self-betterment’ initiative that you set out to complete. Some of the more cliché but still yet important to many resolutions are: Going on a diet, promising to stop cursing or swearing, taking anger management, etc. People come up with a list of many things they’d like to accomplish during the New Year. I will commit myself towards a New Year’s resolution and will discuss what it is in a later writing of mine so stay tuned for 2019’s column pieces. Here’s a list of questions/thoughts I have pondered upon to help me accomplish my resolution: (1) What would I like my resolution to be?

(2) What is the purpose of the resolution? (3) Is it attainable? (4) How will it benefit me? (5) Will it have either a positive or negative effect on the persons around me? (6) How do I plan on achieving it? (7) Is it a long term or short term goal? Most importantly, as you proceed through time with your resolution, make sure you do a timely (monthly, weekly, daily) evaluation of your progress and/or regression of your resolution. It sits on my mind as to why do we choose to set goals at the beginning of the year. Perhaps it’s the historical/religious background of resolutions, the beginning of the Roman calendar in January, the practice performed by many Americans to better themselves in whatever way needed during the great depression at the beginning of every year or maybe it’s our inner OCD tendencies to be organised and systematic when it comes to time and life goals. Whatever the case may be, I applaud

any system that people use to help change old habits, better their thinking, behaviour and emotional stability as an individual. So if by chance, you were successful at completing a resolution then I certainly strive to be like you in the coming year. Finally, remember that it is not a crime to break a pledge or two because some goals are harder to achieve than others. Every year seems to hold something new and collective. I remember my past by years and not necessarily by the exact dates or time. 2018 has been a year of constant journeys and transition, 2017 was my year of closing old doors and opening new educational ones, 2009 was my year of childhood innocence, 2000 was the year I changed the lives of my parents forever (certainly cannot remember that). Nonetheless, as an old quote said,‘The New Year is the first blank page of a 365 paged book, write a good one.’

X ◄◄◄ From page VII

TRAINING Samuels explained that the prison is now in a more ‘fortunate’ position to have the opportunity for some staff members to be exposed to training to deal with vulnerable prisoners; this he says put them in a little better position in terms of being able to identify persons with such traits, but

who might not be mad. “So you can clearly pick it up, what is happening in the life of that individual, once he or she is displaying certain tendencies you are able to put systems in place to have them segregated. But again there is only so much we can do in terms of our ability to segregate – because of space,” he stated. He said that there is a section at Camp Street that they are able to use for those persons who are definitely unable

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018 to be in close proximity to other prisoners because they are seen as being harmful to other prisoners. Other prisoners in retaliation would also harm them so we are forced to find a place to put those who are deemed uncontrollable. In this situation, Samuels said that the prison authorities have a relationship with the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Psychiatric Department, where they do regular visits and keep them on their medication. Therefore, it is not a situation where such prisoners are acting out in an aggressive manner. Ideally, those persons should be in an institution where they can be adequately taken care of, so despite all that the system is doing to help them it is not the right place for such persons, he declared. BUGGERY IS AN OFFENCE Prisoners who are HIV positive are not disclosed to the general prison population so as to cause stigma and discrimination, but are encouraged to acquire and adhere to their medication so that their health can be maintained, Samuels stated. “However, the offence of buggery is still one that is on our law books so that it is not something that is condoned. Therefore, while persons are advised to desist from engaging in such activities, what is also important is that while there is the perception such activities are rampant in the prison, the fact is that a large per cent of the prison population has zero-tolerance to such activities. There are several prisoners who are against the practice of homosexuality; not only that they are not engaged in the activity, but they do not want it happening in the space that they’re in. So that is a plus for us; despite our over-crowdedness and so forth, many persons guard against being touched inappropriately by other prisoners,” he assured. JOINT SERVICES COLLABORATION Samuels stated in general, the prison authorities have an obligation to not only protect the prisoners under their watch but also the nation at large. “We have a responsibility to ensure that this nation is kept safe, unfortunately, all of our staff members may not agree with this policy, thus aiding prisoners in wrong and illegal moves that can cause harm to other prisoners, prison staff, and members of the public as well. However, he noted that while prisoners have numbers, which they tend to use to their advantage, in Guyana the prisons’ authority also has an excellent collaborative arrangement with the Joint Services, so that the prison is never left alone to confront any adverse situation. He noted that there is absolute danger involved in such deviant behaviour such as access to drugs; to cell phones and the danger cell phones can pose, not only in Guyana but globally. He stressed however that there are some prison officers who are very committed and dedicated to the job, while others seek to encourage the breaking of the law in varying ways. And, these are some things we need to look at because if persons are entrusted in a position of responsibility and breach, they should be dealt with in a firm manner.

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The Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central (RCG-C) joins hands with the Jewan Ka Nritya (JKN) Dance Company team for a recent outreach at Plastic City

RCGC gears up for the New Year

Rotaracters engaging with children recently

By Vishani Ragobeer THE Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central (RCG-C) will be seeking to maintain their track record of making a tremendous positive impact in society as the year 2019 unfolds. For this club, the focus is on community outreach and personal development. To achieve these, the club has few signature projects it is engaged in each year. Starting off the projects for the calendar year is the club’s signature project: ‘Wine and Art’ which is held in January. President of the Rotaract Club, Chricell Whitney said: “Usually this takes on some form to keep it innovative and fresh- like wine art and music or wine art and fashion.” “That’s usually a project focused on the arts to give persons that outlet to showcase what they can do and so now we’re trying to brainstorm the twist and it’s the main fundraiser for the year,” Whitney explained further. “So we try to garner as many funds as we can from that project to fund further community projects throughout the year.” Following this, the club will continue its literacy and back-to-school programme in Corriverton. This is a community outreach programme. Whitney also explained that the group decided to reach out to Corriverton, which is located in the ancient county of Berbice because as much as reasonably possible, the group would like to serve underserved areas. In so doing, they ended up all the way there because it was an area that would not have benefited from a programme like this before. Here, the group managed to refurbish a library, donate more than 200 books and conduct a back-to-school project targeting about 250 children in the Berbice area, according to Assistant Director of Community Service, Laurel Dundas. And finally, for community engagement, the club also has its signature Christmas charity project. Usually, the group would spread

Christmas cheer to homes or orphanages, but this year they switched it up just a bit and did an outreach activity with the community of Plastic City. The support of any such venture depends largely on the support received and as such, the president explained that the club would try to schedule their activities in such a way that funds can be proportioned. Achieving the personal development goal of the RCGC, Whitney highlighted: “For next year we have a professional development workshop we are working on also.” Through these workshops, it is envisioned that members of the club could benefit from mentorship and entrepreneurial training from persons who are established in their respective fields. This event is slated for February. Personal development is something that all members must go through because the club is not only about giving back to society, it is also about becoming a better version of yourself every day. “The focus of Rotaract is community service and most of the times persons cite community service and a [wish] to give back to society as the reason for wanting to join the club,” the president noted. Upon acceptance of membership, opportunities will be provided to facilitate growth. “What persons find is that while you join Rotaract for community service, there is a lot more exposure to professional development and growth and networking in Guyana and across the region,” she explained. Aside from that, the group also needs people who can benefit from what is being offered to them and to contribute toward achieving the group’s mandate. As such, she noted: “Rotaract is actively recruiting members,” and added: “For work in the community, while we do need financial resources, we also need human resources to be on the ground. Despite our limited resources, we make the most of it and give back as much as we possibly can.” Interested persons can contact Rotaract Georgetown- Central on Facebook, or contact any of the members.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Having that difficult conversation The Beacon Foundation offering love and hope through its hospice By M Margaret Burke THE Christmas season and accompanying holidays are usually a time of happiness, sharing, expectancy – the hope of receiving gifts and every good thing. At the same time, however, there are those among us who though acknowledging that it is a time of joy and goodwill, might be having the most difficult time even attempting to celebrate because of a sick family member or good friend in their midst. Yes. This is a difficult conversation to have at this time, but it is the reality. The Beacon Foundation has a hospice care facility here in Guyana, which was conceived out of the recognition of the extent of suffering among the poor and homeless; also out of the inability of the medical system to treat terminally ill persons effectively. The Beacon Foundation commenced work here in Guyana in 1985. It aims to assist the needy, regardless of religious or political belief, sex or race. Supervisor of the Beacon hospice, Nurse Marina Ramsden (RN), who has been working with the foundation for over 30 years, told the Pepperpot Magazine that they started out

14 – 15 years old could not even read their ABCs,” she said.

Part of the Beacon Foundation team, (from left) Nurse Marina Ramsden (RN), Nurse Bibi Salim (RN), Nurse Shantille Li-A-Ping, Ms. Janet McKenzie (sitting) and J Ramdial

with projects such as a feeding programme for persons on the streets. The foundation also focused on ‘street boys’ with what was called a rehabilitation programme for boys who were uneducated. “Our plan was to rehabilitate

them so that we could have gotten them back into society, so that they can meaningfully serve; we taught them Mathematics and English since many of them could not read. It was sad to see that some of the boys at ages

DOMICILIARY HOSPICE Additionally, there was the domiciliary hospice and this continues up to today in an even more organised manner. This is where nurses go into the homes and look after the terminally ill; giving advice, doing pain control, counselling and showing the caregivers of patients in the home how to handle the patients with turning, changing their bed linen and many other services, Nurse Ramsden stated. She said that the nurses at the Beacon hospice also provide palliative care for patients and families. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), “Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the problem associated with life-threatening illness, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual.” Turn to page XXV►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Learned lessons

Young aspiring doctor writes book of inspiration after dropping out of medical school

Shellon Messiah while attending Medical School

By Vanessa Braithwaite MUCH to her surprise, young Shellon Messiah of Amelia’s Ward Linden, had gained a scholarship to the prestigious Texilla American University, to pursue a Degree in Medicine. Things were looking up for the 18-year-old, who had successfully completed her secondary education at Mackenzie High School. She was proudly dressed in her scrubs and attended her dream school, every day looking through the tunnel of hope that one day she would become the doctor she always dreamt of being. Unfortunately, the tunnel of hope suddenly turned a tunnel of dismay after Critchlow Labour College (CLC) was unable to continue paying her fees. With little financial backing, this aspiring doctor had to dock the boat and drop out in her fourth year, with two years remaining for completion. It was the hardest decision she had ever made, but the reality of limited financing wasn’t allowing her to complete the course. After packing up and returning to Linden, she described that time as the most horrible phase of her life. “I was going through a horrible phase of life: setbacks, depression and hurt overpowered me and all my will was sapped. I had to leave my fourth year of medical school because I was unable to pay my tuition fee,” she related. Shellon then realised she was not the only one rowing such a boat, there were others rowing boats of disappointment all around her and as our Guyanese saying goes, “When ya think ya deh bad, ya matty deh worse.” She decided to make the best of her situation and turn her storm into sunshine and hoped that maybe, she can be the sunshine in the lives of others suffering a similar fate. She then began writing a book titled “Hurdles” as she realised many may have turned to perilous measures to deal with their pain, in most cases suicide. “The aim of the book is to encourage these people that they can overcome these life challenges, keep praying, keep pushing, keep working. You could be anything you want to become, you could get past this stage, all you have to do is make it past this hurdle,” she related. The book tells stories of those who went through various situations but somehow made it out, so as to inspire those going through the same situation. It features those like herself, who had to drop out of school because of little financial backing, those who were abused, those who are unemployed, those who were hurt in relationships etc. I was looking for all kinds of ways to fight this depression and one day I got up and started writing. Writing poems and stories helped me whenever I feel down.” Turn to page XXIV►►►

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A New Year ahead

TO ALL those celebrating a good year, I wish you continued happiness and success in 2019. To those recovering from a bad year, I hope you’re optimistic for a change in the upcoming year; as they say, no rainbow without rain. In 2019, there will still be many things which are not within our control but our attitudes, behaviour towards others and ourselves will be. It is obvious why we celebrate the New Year; much like birthdays we celebrate surviving another year because sadly, many others do not. New Year is particularly special as it brings a natural desire to reflect on the past, remember achievements and create a plan for the future, with a clear aim to overcome any sort of challenges along the way. It is a time that focuses on self-reflection and self-improvement. New Year, New You is a common saying but a more practical one is New Year, New View. My favourite thing about New Year has always been resolutions and the hope and determination that accompany them. I’m aware (based on my own actions as well as those around me) that most resolutions only last until the end of January. We tend to give up on them for various reasons- they may have been unrealistic, unimportant or pressured. To solve this, the answer seems pretty obvious – choose resolutions that you are actually able to do, ones that you truly want to do and most importantly, ones that improve your quality of life. Resolutions are not about conforming to what you believe society wants, it’s not an obligation or task but rather a new, anticipated lifestyle. A little tip – I researched some scientific studies in order to determine what makes someone more likely to adhere to their resolution. Evidently, those who planned in detail were 22 per cent more likely to succeed in practising their resolution throughout the year. For example, aiming to lose 10 pounds in two months rather than just having the general resolution of ‘losing weight.’ Additionally, those who told their friends and families about these resolutions were 10 per cent more likely to succeed than those who did not. I have many resolutions this year- all of which focus on self-development with an aim to improve mental health. These include positive thinking, adapting only healthy cop-

ing skills as well as practising gratitude and forgiveness – all things I genuinely want for myself which makes it possible with hard work. If you haven’t been able to decide on a resolution, I’d like to make a suggestion that I think is much needed for many- to live in the moment. Most people don’t realise that the what ifs, should haves, could haves are responsible for a great deal of stress and anxiety. If you spend your moments regretting the past or awaiting something else- when you have more money, when you’re thinner, when you get into a relationship you’ll finally do this and that – you let your life slip by. Self-improvement is an overall goal, not a day to day interruption or hindrance. The wait is an important part of the journey as nothing worth having comes from instant gratification. Occupational psychologists who specialise in obtaining life goals recommend abiding by the SMART method- Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Relevant and

Time. Since the goal of saving more money is a common resolution, let’s use that as the context example. Specific- you shouldn’t just say ‘I want to save money’ but rather, how are you planning on doing this? What are you implementing or giving up? A side business? Buying less alcohol? Taking lunch to work instead of buying it there? Measurable- this should be a desired amount to strive for – how much extra money are you planning to have every week or month? Attainable- you need to be realistic in your goal setting. If it’s not possible to save a certain amount, do not aim for it. Start with a small and repeatedly manageable amount. If you overestimate and are not able to attain it, it will serve as a setback, initiating the impression that you cannot do it in general. Relevant- of course saving money is always a good idea but what are you specifi-

cally aiming for? A car? House? School fees? Research shows that one is more successful at saving money when there is a clear objective for its use. Time- set a realistic deadline. If you have a sum in mind, decide on a date when you believe it is possible to attain. This will keep you on track and increase motivation. Actually, all of the above will increase motivation and therefore the overall likelihood of achieving and maintaining your resolutions. Please remember that the SMART method can be used for any chosen resolution. How to get started? Make a list of all the positive things that 2018 has brought forth and follow it up by a second list of things you’d like to achieve in 2019. I wish you all the very best. Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always

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#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

What does the New Year signal? IN another few hours, a whole New Year will be upon us. It is really just another day turning to night, turning to day, but the earth has made another trip around the sun and that’s worth something. But what does the New Year signal for us here in Guyana? For me personally, I am entering the New Year with thoughts of how much Guyana can change in these 12 months and really, how much change is necessary. The past few days, sadly, I have been saturated with misinformation and analyses that threaten to incite fear among people. Following that fateful No-Confidence motion, I believe I have heard all the outlandish and borderline insane theories and opinions. Now, I consider myself to be quite able to filter out misinformation, but this might not be the same for many. Perhaps unconsciously, we have let ourselves become sponges- where we are quick to soak up whatever is thrown on us. In the age of technology where data has become the most valuable commodity (yes, even beating oil), it becomes imperative for misinformation to be rooted out. And in times

like these when information is everywhere in abundance, owing to social media, it becomes even more important for those who spread information to be responsible. The change in the dynamics of information sharing requires a change in the way we exercise our responsibility towards it. For this New Year, as Guyanese, we are not going to fully escape this racial divide that has enveloped this country since its birth. And if I know something about something, elections always bring out the worse parts of this divide and racial polarity will be exacerbated. Then, there are social media platforms (specifically FACEBOOK) that allow any Mary Jane to connect with any John Smith. As such, this divide has become a part of every conversation. I mean, you check out any local news platform on social media and you won’t have to look too far for the racists and their bigotry. Those conversations permeate the minds of those who watch and read and incite unnecessary tensions. These conversations are shared, each with their own inherent bias, and that leads right back to this central concept of misinformation.

And what is a splendid way to curb this? Carefully navigating through the misinformation is the way to go. But so far, that change or adaption has been very elusive. It is evident that misinformation taints every aspect of our everyday life. Look at the pessimism brought by all those folks that like to make their opinions on the emerging oil and gas industry known. Before the nation can even begin to benefit from this, the talk of why the nation will fail has become commonplace. Could this lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy? Perhaps, who knows! But that is yet to play out, so let’s see how we use this year ahead of us to prepare for the much talked about ‘first oil’. And let’s not even remember the rumours of the President’s health or the scares given through the assumptions of Venezuela’s intentions. Misinformation was working overtime to incite fear. Oh, and that one time Mr. Krauss from the New York Times wanted to tell the world about the ‘watery wilderness’ that is Guyana. Nevertheless, big things are going to happen in this country this year, one way or the other- whether it’s elections, preparations for

oil or everything else in between. Some of these things might be pleasing to some and you know how the rest goes. How we respond to these occurrences is going to be indicative of where we stand as a people. I stopped eating meat in October. It seemed strange to many of my friends that I would do this in October instead of for the New Year. You know, because going vegan is the new way to go and all. But I say this to underscore also that while the New Year brings new opportunities for new things to happen and to usher in new changes, each day similarly brings a new opportunity to change for the better. I personally believe that this year, we need to make a concerted effort to change this nasty culture that we have allowed to engulf us. After a while, it is going to get tiring to just talk about changing but yet perpetuate the same negative things by virtue of what we say and share and how we respond to what is said and shared. If this country is to move forward we really need to stop letting the bigotry get the best of us and work towards our common destiny. A blessed New Year to all.

Determined to work on his craft Louie Banks SOME may believe the music industry in Guyana is one that is slowly dying, given our copyright dilemma and all. However, some musicians and artistes seem to be making the best out of the ‘struggle’. This week’s personality is a 27-year-old hip pop artiste, who refuses to give up on his craft. In fact, his ultimate goal is to be a mogul in the music fraternity. Lewis Banks also known as Louie Banks was born in Miami, Florida to Guyanese parentage, and was raised in Georgetown Guyana. His passion has always been music since he recognised his talent at a very young age. “I realised I love doing what I do after I recorded my first song on my block when I was just 13 years old. I recorded that song at Vizion Sounds Studio in Guyana and I did the video at my home in Campbellville. The feedback was superb and

everything else has been history ever since then,” Banks said. Over the years he realised his lyrical ability and he developed the skill of recording and mixing his own music. Banks said he is inspired by everyday events and activities that occur around him. “I’m also inspired by what I’m going through, where I want to be in my future and inspiration also comes from persons I know who can make it from nothing to something.” Speaking of his aspirations in life, Louie said, “I aspire to be a mogul within this music business, owning and operating my own record label. With that I’ll be able to give youths like myself an opportunity to pursue their dreams,” he said. In addition to the tons of songs Louie has recorded and released, he said that he is currently working on a new album that will be released very soon. The album he said, delves into

who he really is and what he goes through, so that persons especially his fans, can really get to know who he is. “This album I’m working on is deep. It’s about the struggle to obtain success and the obstacles. The stress, the happy times and everything I’ve been through and still going through. I’m opening up so my fans can really get to know the artiste they love,” the young artiste said. Encouraging other young musicians like himself, Banks said that in Guyana the system as it relates to musical arts can be really discouraging. However, he reminded that talent is only 15 per cent of being successful, the other 85 per cent comes from the work you put in to reach the end of the road to success. “Patience is also a key ingredient. Stay true to yourself and be patient and most of all, be prepared to put in a lot of work,” he said. His music can be heard on soundcloud.com/louiebanks

Guyanese Hip Pop artiste, Louie Banks

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

GuySuCo and Sugar Creating a viable future BY 2015, when the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government came into office, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) had amassed a debt of more than $82 billion. But how did sugar, which was once king, become such a strain on the public purse, draining billions of dollars from the national budget in bailouts and subsidies from 2015 to 2017 alone, totalling approximately $32 billion? This week on Government in Action, we will take an in-depth look at how opportunities to address the well-being of thousands of sugar workers were squandered after the European Union (EU) announced the removal of preferential prices since 2006. We will also look at the deep concern the current administration has for the growing number of displaced workers and what is being done to help prepare them for a future beyond the fields and the mills. EVOLUTION OF THE SUGAR INDUSTRY At the start of the 20th century, there were 11 estates located in Leonora, Uitvlugt, Wales, Diamond, Enmore, La Bonne Intention, Ogle, Albion, Blairmont, Rose Hall and Skeldon. The sugar industry remained at the heart of the economy and accounted for more than 63 per cent of agricultural output and more than 20 per cent of the gross domestic product in 1976. GuySuCo was producing 337,776 tonnes of sugar and had a workforce of 28,406 persons at that time. Over the last decade, the sugar industry has had to be propped up by bailouts at the expense of the provision of better quality education and social services for the people

of Guyana. GuySuCo incurred total losses of $40 billion with sales of $230 billion from 2008 to 2015. By 2015, the management of the company had accumulated a mere $11 billion in internal equity and had decreased working capital by $25 billion. Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Noel Holder, while delivering his 2018 Budget Speech said production of the sweetener is expected to fall to 152,000 tonnes this year, a 17.2 per cent decline over last year’s output. “GuySuCo is the single, oldest and continuous industry in Guyana and it is haemorrhaging. Government cannot afford to keep on bailing it out. There has to be change, the very nature of the change is something that is still to be decided, but the model that we inherited and the plantation model that we have used for three and a half centuries has failed. The sugar corporation is costing us billions; if I can put that money into the school system, the public health system, the University of Guyana, you would have seen a transformation,” President David Granger said on the Ministry of the Presidency’s Public Interest Programme on November 4, 2016. According to the “State Paper on the Future of the Sugar Industry”, which was presented to the National Assembly by Minister Holder, the sugar industry lags behind mining, construction and the rice industry in its contribution to the national economy. The State Paper noted that other industries such as the wholesale and distribution trade, transportation and storage and information and communication technology also contribute more than the sugar industry to the output of the country. The sugar industry had for many years been operating in a largely protected mar-

ket from 1959 to 2009, since Guyana was among nine countries that benefitted from the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement. Secondly, along with other African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states, it benefitted from the Sugar Protocol under the ACP-EU Preferential system. Preferential sales to the EU market accounted for 50 per cent of the company’s sugar output and 70 per cent of its revenues. In 2005, the European Agriculture Council took a decision to reduce the guaranteed price for sugar by 36 per cent over a four-year period that began in 2006. The EU was forced to withdraw the preferential treatment because of global pressures to liberalise trade. As a result, the EU allocated more than €1.2 billion for the restructuring and diversification in the 18 countries that would have been affected. These funds allowed countries to invest and add to the value of their product as in the case of Mauritius, or diversify their industry as was done by Trinidad and Tobago. The EU provided a total of GYD$348.5 billion from since 2006 in budgetary support to compensate for the 36 per cent cut in the preferential price. It was not clear how much of an impact those funds had in terms of preparing the local sugar industry for the inevitable and there are questions about the previous administrations’ decision to plug $47 billion dollars into the failed Skeldon Sugar Modernisation Project. Little was done to stop the slide and today the management of GuySuCo estimates that the Government of Guyana would have to provide annual subsidies averaging $17 billion over the next four years to keep the estates open and operating, an expense that the economy cannot bear.

President David Granger and members of his Cabinet meeting with the representatives of the Guyana Agricultural Workers’ Union (GAWU) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) earlier this year

President David Granger addressing sugar workers and other residents of Rose Hall in October during a visit there

WHAT’S NEXT? The Government has issued a ‘White Paper’ which outlines its plans to modernise, contract and diversify the sector. A small but profitable sector will serve Guyana better than a cumbersome and faltering industry, which has lost its profitability. Minister Holder in his Budget presentation pointed out as much, noting that the industry cannot function in its current state. “The country’s framework for governing the sugar industry has to evolve. It must become more in tune with reducing vulnerabilities, resolving institutional and legacy issues and diversifying away from sugar to more industries. Mr. Speaker, despite the magnitude of subsidies there will be no positive impact on the financial state of GuySuCo. The economy simply cannot afford it,” he told the National Assembly. Before any decision could be made, though, the Government installed an Interim Management Team to manage the company’s affairs in June 2015. In that same year, the corporation sold the Skeldon Co-Generation Plant and the portion of land under its control for $5.1 billion. Those proceeds were used to meet operating costs and a part of the capital expenditure. Further, an urgent injection of $12 billion was needed to reap the crop in season and Government was forced to provide a bailout. “Since taking office the Government has supported GuySuCo with $32 billion with a $6.3 billion allocation in 2018 and another $2.3 billion estimated for 2019. Capital investment at $12 billion will be required over the next three years to ensure that the sugar production targets are met,” Minister Holder

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018 said. With the near-bankrupt position of the corporation being recognised by the Government, a Commission of Inquiry (COI) was established by the administration in 2015 to examine the situation in the sugar industry and determine what needed to be done to make it viable again. Government believes that the sugar industry is too important to the people of Guyana and to the country’s economy to be treated like a political football. A consultative approach to decision-making, which included all stakeholders, is the guiding policy of the administration. “Being faced with these realities, which we inherited as a Government, we made a decision that this important national institution and the largest single employer in Guyana, needed a closer look at it and a carefully considered policy to ensure its survival and a return to viability. This was clear to us because besides the reports, writings, political ‘back and forth’, statistics, numbers and technical arguments, we were dealing with lives, real human situations that translated into day-today’ bread and butter issues. We, therefore, took the prudent decision to appoint a Commission of Inquiry into the Guyana Sugar Corporation in July 2015 to make recommendations on charting the way forward and returning the industry to financial viability,” Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon said. The Government, therefore, embarked on discussions with the Opposition, GuySuCo, the Guyana Agricultural and Workers’ Union (GAWU) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) to determine the course of action for the future of the corporation in the interest of all stakeholders. That the Opposition and Unions came together with the Government to brainstorm a solution and a way forward is testament that the gravity of the situation was realised by all parties. At the first meeting held in January 2018, President David Granger noted that it is the time for all stakeholders to come together, putting aside all prejudices and partisan interests and work for the national good. “This is a national matter. It is not a partisan one. It involves human beings, households and families. We are conscious of the foresighted nature and we cannot ignore the context of the issue that we face. We cannot continue something that is not competitive. We are bailing out the industry at $1B per month and that is simply not sustainable. If workers have to go home then we all lose, as it will have an impact on the economic growth of the country. Government will not win; the Unions will not win and the workers will not win if the industry is crippled. We will all lose. Nobody is against the sugar industry. The Government and the unions should engage until the issue is resolved. Let us use this opportunity to show flexibility and ensure that livelihoods are saved,” the President said. At that time, Head of GAWU, Mr. Komal Chand had said that he is pleased with the outcome of the meeting, as he noted that the Union is now committed to working with the administration to draft feasible solutions. “We have listened and we are satisfied that you are concerned with the issues. We are ready to work along with the Government to explore the options and we are going to give our best to see the situation out. You are right that there are no winners in this and we are willing… We are certainly pleased with this meeting. This is the first meeting [for the year] we have been able to have with the Government and we believe that the meeting took place in a positive atmosphere and we recognise that the Government itself pays attention and I think that it is a good beginning. That is certainly an important ground rule that we dialogue, that we talk and try to find an answer for the way forward. We are pleased. From GAWU, we are very pleased and it spells out that the future engagements

are in the interest of the workers, the industry and the country,” he said. Through this evidence-based approach to policymaking, which saw consultations with the unions and other stakeholders, Minister Harmon said that the Commission made several important recommendations among which were that the corporation should be privatised within three years; a serious evaluation of all diversification options be conducted to avoid total reliance on sugar for GuySuCo’s revenues; an evaluation of the options for GuySuCo should be done; an amalgamation of the Wales and Uitvlugt estates and assigning all their cane to the Uitvlugt factory which was operating at 50 per cent capacity and the corporation should divest itself of the Skeldon estate. Despite these recommendations by the Commission, the Government opted to ask GuySuCo to come up with a Plan of Action based on these recommendations and how the issues identified will be dealt with. “After many weeks, GuySuCo came up with a Plan of Action on how they will deal with these issues. The Plan was aggressively interrogated by the Cabinet and eventually, a document was put out. That document in itself became the basis of Government’s position, which was laid on the table with the unions, with the political Opposition, with the representatives of the estates. That is what we called putting the issues on the table. GAWU put their issues on the table. NAACIE, in fact, said that they concurred with the position of GAWU. The political Opposition said they needed to have a study done. They never put anything on the table. So what we had on the table was the position by the Government and the position by GAWU. The Government then looked at these positions, put them together, extracted the main issues out of them together and prepared a State paper, which was laid in the National Assembly. Apart from what GAWU has put on the table, there is nothing else coming from anybody else except for letters in the newspapers,” Minister Harmon said. SEVERANCE As part of its plan to return the industry to profitability, Government ordered the closure of the Wales Estate and reduced the workforce at other under-producing estates in order to bring down operating costs. Government has indicated too that it is focusing on the creating of three large estates; Blairmont located in the West Bank of Berbice, Albion located in Rose Hall in East Berbice and Uitvlugt in Wales, West Bank Demerara. “Guyana is trying to preserve its industry. That is why there will be a Blairmont and that is why there is going to be an Albion and we will preserve as many of our plantations and estates as possible. Uitvlugt will remain but we have to deal with the problems of cost,” President Granger said at the opening of the Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five) Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s Expo and Trade Fair at the Bath Settlement Community Ground, West Coast Berbice in April this year. As a result of the closure of the estates, the Government was forced to provide over $5B for the payment of severance for retrenched sugar workers. Workers who are owed $400,000 and below were paid their severance in full in the first quarter of the year. This represented approximately 46 per cent of the workers affected. The 54 per cent of workers were paid 50 per cent of their severance in the first quarter of the year and the other 50 per cent was paid in the first week in December. The severance paid in December also attracted interest and this too was paid in full. With regard to Uitvlugt estate, Minister Holder explained, “there were 345 workers who were offered jobs at Uitvlugt and about 170 accepted; the remainder did not.”

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Sugar workers receiving the remainder of their severance payment from the Government on December 7, 2018

The workers expressed gratitude to the Government for honouring its promise of the severance payments. Mr. Andrew George said that he “felt good” having received his payments while Satrohan Singh, who has worked on the estate for 13 years, remarked that he is “glad to know that I’m taking home what I have been working for all these years”. Another worker, Mr. Alvin Bradford remarked that he is happy to receive his payments and thanked the administration. “I am so relieved because we waited so long for this moment and today is the day for us. I thank President Granger and Prime Minister Nagamootoo for what they did for us today. I’m grateful for it on behalf of myself and all the other cane harvesters,” he said. The Government’s efforts aimed at consolidating the sugar industry has paid dividends. On December 12, GuySuCo announced that it is poised to achieve its production target for the year 2018 which is 103, 000 tonnes of sugar as on that date, 100,485 tonnes of sugar had been produced for the year. This is in excess of 12,000 tonnes more than what was achieved for the entire year, 2017, from the three estates – Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt. Thus far, the three estates have collectively surpassed their weekly targets on 26 occasions for the year, which translates to payment of the Weekly Production Incentive (WPI). The qualified employees will, therefore, receive a bonus for the year 2018, as a reward for their performance, the value of which would be dependent on the final production, the entity said. MICRO FINANCING AND SKILLS TRAINING Severance is not the end, however, for the retrenched workers. President Granger has given the assurance that the Government will be working through its various Ministries and agencies to provide support, particularly in the areas of micro-financing, skills training and even through the provision of lands for farming to the workers. “We are also going to work with the unions to make sure that the workers who cannot find employment on the estates are given a soft landing, that is, we will try to provide employment opportunities so that nobody has to suffer,” President Granger said. Minister of Social Protection, Ms. Amna Ally also said that the Ministry is deeply concerned with the realities of the current situation facing GuySuCo and the affected workers and as such, stands ready to provide any assistance that it can. In this regard, she noted that the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), as well as the Port Mourant Training Centre, will be utilised to train and upgrade the skills of the workers. Additionally, she noted that the service of the Micro Credit Unit at the Ministry is available to lend assistance, as there are funds available for small start-up projects. “We are cognisant that many workers will now have to explore the idea of entering

a new realm of employment and already we have given great consideration in a number of areas to go forward. The public health facilities in various locations will still be of service to persons working in those areas. The Board of Industrial Training has been conducting training in several areas such as engineering, building and masonry, carpentry, information and communication technology, forestry, home economics and health services. This certainly will provide opportunities for alternative skills by equipping persons with the necessary knowledge, skills and training relevant for employment. These types of training will be continuous. In addition to that, we will collaborate with the Ministry of Natural Resources to provide additional training opportunities with an oil and gas focus and the Port Mourant Training Centre will be utilised for this purpose,” she said. Further, at the 2018 Presidential Press Conference in September, the Head of State had announced that a State Lands Sales Commission will be established to ensure there is rational and transparent disposal of lands, which will no longer fall under GuySuCo, taking into consideration, the dismissed sugar workers, Ministries and agencies. “Now, as far as the closures are concerned, once an estate has been closed, the lands will now be subject to the jurisdiction of, first of all, a State Land Sales Commission, of which the SPU, the Special Purpose Unit under NICIL, will have representation. The idea is that we won’t sell off the family jewels. We’ll make sure that the lands, which are being taken out of sugar, are placed to the benefit of the people of Guyana as a whole. Now, several anomalies and several contradictions may emerge. For example, the Ministry of Agriculture may need some lands in order to settle sugar workers who are interested in settling,” he said. In addition to this, Mr. Komal Singh, Chief Executive Officer of GAICO Construction and General Services Incorporated has publicly committed to hiring approximately 100 retrenched sugar workers when the company opens its modern wharf facility in 2019. “We are in the process now of developing a wharf facility and we are also in the process of developing a hazardous waste management facility. Our plan is to have a hazardous waste management facility where we bring in waste oil, process it and reuse it. We hope by the end of 2019 we can have that facility up and running. We are hoping to create at least 100 jobs by June/July when we finish the first phase of the construction of that facility. Our priority is to give the jobs to those who would have lost jobs from GuySuCo,” Mr. Singh said. Apart from all of this, the Government under the SPU has commenced efforts to privatise the sector. It is clear, therefore, that the Government is working to ensure that the sector is not only made secured and protected from market volatilities, but livelihoods and communities can also be safeguarded.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

XIX

◄◄◄ From page III

This photograph was taken on November 29, 2018, at the Smithsonian American Postal Museum in Washington, DC. Guyana’s Ambassador to the USA, Dr. Riyad Insanally and his teenage son, Jamie, were at the time looking up at replicas of early airplanes which are suspended above - early airplanes which took airmail letters across the USA. However, they could have also been looking up to heaven to their mother and wife, Sarah, who died in September. The Ambassador and his son also viewed the world-famous British Guiana One-Cent Magenta Postage Stamp which is on exhibition at the museum.

At the 11th hour, of the 11th month, November 11, 2018, Volunteers of World War II began laying wreaths with 100 poppies each, at the Cenotaph at Main and Church Streets in Georgetown, in commemoration of the signing of the Armistice Document, which was done exactly 100 years ago and which brought that war to an end. At left in the photo is a section of the gate of the Cenotaph and at the right are the current Guyanese Veterans of World War II. The oldest is 100-year-old Benjamin Durant. Many Guyanese also served in World War I, the last surviving was Gershon Browne of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara, who marched off into Eternity at age 102.

It would be somewhat of a ‘guesstimate’ as to how many millions this humble Guyanese is contributing to the national coffers, just by being a law-abiding citizen and not causing the kind of expenditure like that of the arson destruction of the Lot 12 Camp Street Prison. I took this photo on Brickdam in Georgetown one evening as man and animal, with a simple cart, were wending their way peacefully back home, after a hard day’s work. This vehicle has never been involved in a traffic crash resulting in injury or death of any other road-user. A simple law-abiding citizen and his faithful donkey making unrecognised indirect contributions to the national coffers.

Travelling back to their village after attending and winning trophies at the 2018 Diwali Celebrations, this Group from Golden Fleece on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two, while travelling on the Essequibo ferry, graciously posed for this photograph on November 6, 2018. Diwali is a national holiday in beautiful Guyana.

This young couple and their infant child were just about to board a taxi when they allowed me to take their photograph. This was at Santa Rosa, Moruca, Region One, where the community was celebrating their 200th Anniversary. Santa Rosa was established by Spanish Arawaks in 1818 who had fled from Venezuela due to religious persecution. Two hundred years later, there is another fleeing of persona from Venezuelans to Guyana; persona who are fleeing from another persecution.

I took this photograph at the Smithsonian Castle Commons in Washington, DC, on the occasion of Guyana’s 48th Republic Anniversary, on February 23, 2018. At left is Deputy Under Secretary for Collections and Interdisciplinary Support of the Smithsonian Institute, Dr. Scott Miller, who did a visual presentation on Guyana’s Biodiversity. The Professor had already made 25 visits to Guyana, mainly to the Rupununi District, Region 9, over a 31-year period. His audience was made up of USA-based Guyanese.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

Inspiration for Your Writing in the New Year 2019 is almost upon us and we will all soon embark on new creative projects for the new year. We will groan about the lack of funding, curse writer’s block, and whine about the absence of the muse. There will be many stumbling blocks, but we will persevere. Knowing fully well about how difficult it can be for writers to find inspiration for their work, I decided that my gift for the New Year would be to solicit advice from some of the writers I know, in order to establish a range of ways in which writers can go about finding inspiration for their writing. I have focused on playwrights only because this kind of writing is in very short supply in Guyana, especially if one compares it to poetry or fiction. The playwrights below have all had their work staged and they have all received rave reviews for their plays, which were borne out of a range of influences, including inner thoughts and emotions, real-life experiences, their own values and beliefs, their exposure to the art of other people, and their desire to create something that addresses the ills in their society. It is my hope that their advice, relayed in their own words, is both in itself inspiring or that it leads you towards a path of inspiration that will give life to the literary work you engage in throughout the New Year. FROM THE MOUTHS OF THE PLAYWRIGHTS Nicholas Singh (“Some Other Nights”) – ‘My inspiration for “Some Other Nights,” like a lot of my [other] artistic creations, was inspired by my own inner emotional experiences I faced in my life, coupled with the fact that I was a part of the NSTAD [National School of Theatre Arts and Drama] Playwriting class under the guidance of Dr. Paloma Mohamed. This play holds a sacred place within me since its theme of depression and monotony are close artistic associates of mine; writing it was a venting process of emptying my lungs into an art form and speaking all the truth I had in me into a narrative I created. Where does my inspiration come from? Everywhere. Everything. Everyone. The world and its mysteries are the playground for us creatives. We study the lives and details of everything. I’m a big fan of movies and paintings. Music and heavy sounds get my mind racing. I read what I can. I look at people weirdly and listen to their conversations. I keep stories that I see. What were inspirations/influences behind the play? Samuel Becket’s “Waiting for Godot” and Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” helped a lot in providing my writing of “Some Other Nights” with a feeling of universality. Most obviously, my personal relationship with depression and suicide was the anchor behind making “Some Other Nights” a work of raw, passive emotions. How does one find inspiration? I take

“A Scene from the 2015 production of Ayanna Waddell’s “Red,” directed by Linden Isles – Image via: National Drama Festival”

inspiration. I do not look for it. I wake up and write every day starting at 5:00 AM in the mornings. Fortunately, that’s when inspiration and I square off. Also, [I have a] drive to create art and leave a legacy when I die; a legacy full of beautiful and terrifying work.’ Ayanna Waddell (“Red” and “Black”) – ‘My first play “Red” was inspired by a workshop panel discussion of sorts which included one brave man discussing the abuse he suffered at the hands of his female partner. Long before, I had also heard that men suffered abuse – and the persons often doing the telling – would chuckle or full out laugh during the telling; punctuating the stories with comments like: ‘He is not man,’ etc. This always rubbed me wrong so when afforded the opportunity to write a play via my studies at NSTAD, the decision was simple. “Red” was somewhat of a passion project, which felt easy and flowed. My inspiration was hearing the gaffs in my peer groups and that discussion panel where that young man braved all social pressures and norms to speak out. My second work, “Black,” was inspired by things said to single women, myself included, regarding marriage and everything which goes with it, by some sectors of society

who believe that the natural course of life for women is: husbands, babies, and managing a household. The added twist of the [inclusion of a] con man was somewhat of a sarcastic response to all those voices with opinions, that as a woman focused on a career (or just pursuing other life passions) part of you is somewhat lacking if you do not find a man to ‘settle’ with. The suggestion that you may be defective in some way or incomplete did not settle well with me, hence the birth of “Black.” For upcoming writers, I would encourage them to read other varying writers’ works especially, but not limited to, the genre of writing specific to them.’ Nicola Moonsammy (“Guilty Pleasures”) – ‘As an adult, my inspiration for writing came from my personal experiences and that of my friends and family. Every writer needs to find inspiration in order to produce inspired writing. My best short plays were done in a writing group of the National Drama Company. We read out our work to the group, critiqued them and made suggestions. My values and beliefs influence my writing. The more knowledge I have about a topic, the easier it makes the writing for me. For example,

it’s easy for me to write Christian plays, but I don’t limit myself only to what I know. I love a challenge. My process of writing is: I would start by choosing real-life characters for the play I am writing. Most of the plays I write are based on true life stories so finding real-life characters is very easy for me. Then I think about the setting of the play, the main problem that the characters have to face and what they have to do to overcome this problem, the complications, the solutions and finally the message – most of my plays have a message about life, morals and lessons. I try to be in a quiet place when writing so most of my work is done from 1AM. I’m also influenced by people around me, family, friends, people I meet daily. They have some of the most interesting stories to tell. It isn’t always easy to find inspiration. You have to go after it to make it happen. Inspiration comes from many things: dreams, overheard dialogue, books, movies, newspapers, phone conversations with friends, Facebook drama. You can get inspiration from some of the most unlikely places and situations. Subraj Singh (“Laugh of the Marble Queen” and “Masque” – Both of my plays deal with postcolonial issues, so it should be obvious that a lot of my work is inspired by history – in this case, the history of colonialism, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of the Africans and the Amerindians. My work is also influenced by a lot of other works and artists. Movies, in particular, have an important role to play in inspiring scenes or imagery that I include in my work. I also like to make references to other pieces of art, usually to pay homage or to offer a critique. For example, my play about the Amerindians is inspired by numerous movies based on Native experiences, such as “Pocahontas,” “Avatar,” “The Road to El Dorado,” “Atlantis: The Lost Empire,” and “The New World.” It is also inspired by an idea I came across in classes at NSTAD, having to do with the concept of the Revenge Tragedy, which was a structure that aided my telling of the story. Similarly, my first play, “Laugh of the Marble Queen” was about the African experience and was inspired by poems, such as “The Lynching” by Claude McKay and “Epitaph” by Dennis Scott. I also read about Tom Stoppard’s play, “Arcadia” and loved the concept of the blending of past and present which was a technique that I felt would be perfect to use to tell my historical, postcolonial, Guyanese story about a society where the past affects and afflicts the present in numerous ways. However, there is nothing quite as inspiring or influential as the normal, ‘everyday’ people of Guyana – and just listening to them and watching them is, for me, the most inspiring thing of all.’

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

XXI

E S A C FILES T R U O C

PPP won 1953 General Elections Suffered loss of candidate at elections petition

THE VICTORIOUS People’s Progressive Party (PPP) headed by Cheddi Jagan won the 1953 General Elections but suffered the loss of a candidate through an election petition. The petition was brought by James Graham, a registered voter in respect of the election of Frank Obermuller Van Sertima for the Georgetown North Electoral District. The hearing by Chief Justice, Edward Peter Stubbs Bell, lasted 18 days after which the court found in favour of Graham, to the effect that the election was not conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Representation of the People Ordinance, 1953, relating to the secrecy of the ballot and as a result thereof the result of the election was affected. In his decision the Chief Justice had said “In the result I feel obliged to declare the election held in that district on the 27th April, 1953, to be void and I declare accordingly. I will certify that declaration to the Governor as required by the law. “This is no victory for any political party. This Court is not concerned with the struggles of political parties, but is only concerned to ensure that elections are conducted in accordance with the law.” At the hearing the Petitioner was represented by Mr. H.C. Humphreys, Q.C., C. R. Browne with Amina Sankar. Appearing for the Respondent, were, Mr. J. O.F. Haynes, Mr. L. F. S. Burnham, Clinton Wong and Rudy Luck. It was proved at the trial: (a) That at each of the four polling stations in the area the arrangements for voting were faulty and lent themselves to the secrecy of the ballot being violated. (b) At all the Polling Stations it was possible for the Polling Agents to have seen each voter as he went through the act of voting as distinct from seeing for whom he voted. (c) 295 ballot tickets were marked by Presiding Officers. Knowledge of that fact became known in the Electoral District and some voters expressed the fear that it afforded a means of its becoming known for whom a voter had voted. Section 82 of the Legislative Council (Elections) Ordinance 1945 reads as follows: 82 (1) The election of a candidate as a member of the Council ( Member of the House of Assembly) shall be declared void in an election petition if any of the following grounds be proved:(a) that by reason of general bribery , general treating, or general intimidation or other misconduct or other circumstances whether similar to those before enumerated or not the majority of voters were or might have been prevented from electing the candidate whom they preferred. (b) If it appears that the election was not conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in this Ordinance and that such non-compliance affected the result of the election; (c) That a corrupt or illegal practice was committed in connection with the election; by the candidate or with his knowledge or consent , or by any agent of the candidate; (d) That the candidate was at the time of his election a person not qualified or a person

disqualified for election as a Member.” The Chief Justice held that the contrivance used at the election was not a compartment of the kind contemplated by the Ordinance and Regulations. In addition the principles of the representation of the People Ordinance, 1953 and the mode thereunder were infringed and the election was not really conducted under the existing election laws and such non-compliance affected the result of the election. Delivering his judgment Chief Justice Bell said, “This petition is presented by Mr. James Graham, a registered voter against the return of the respondent Frank Obermuller Van Sertima, a member of the House of Assembly for the Electoral District No. 13 (Georgetown North) at the General Elections held on the 27th April, 1953 in the Colony. “The General Election of the 27th April, 1953, from which this petition has arisen, was the first General Election under the New Constitution recently granted to British Guiana by Her Majesty’s British Guiana (Constitution) Order in Council 1953 . The election presented the law Officers and the Registration Officer ( Mr. H.R. Harewood) who was responsible for the general conduct of the election, with a number of difficult decisions to make both as regards the content of the law regulating the election and the administrative arrangements which were necessary to carry out the law. “The election was the first one to be held with full adult suffrage and not the least of their problems was to devise satisfactory for the casting of votes by a population very many of whom had never voted in their lives before, and very many of whom could not read and write. “The existence of such illiteracy is established by what Mr, Harewood, the Registration Officer , said in evidence namely that he had no reason to doubt that the illiteracy rate amongst East Indians in British Guiana was still over 40%. He went on to say :“When we set up the election machinery we did not contemplate ballot tickets being left outside ballot boxes and between them and on the floor. It was quite a surprise .The fact that we had such a high rate of illiteracy controlled the type ; of mechanical arrangements we had to make. About two thirds of the total number of voters had not voted before at any election. “It did not occur to us to have the Poll Clerk come to the compartment and see that the vote had been put into the box, We did contemplate having the vote cast behind a screen with a Poll Clerk within the screen but we abandoned that as it would lead to the many difficulties”. The Chief Justice went on to state that the election authorities had reproduced as accurately as possible the conditions as they were on election day for inspection by the court and lawyers on both sides. The Chief Justice who along with lawyers and other court officials visited the 4 Polling Stations, added, “I am of the opinion that at each of those four Polling Stations it could have been possible for Polling Agents (either by accident or of set purpose) to have seen how the ballot boxes were grouped together; behind the screen; what position each had occupied in relation to its fellow; what was the position occupied by each box in relation to the length

of the screen behind which they were placed. “My reason for holding those views ; are these: each of the 4 rooms in which the actual voting compartment was placed was quite small with the result that when seated in their places, the Polling Agents were in no case at any greater distance than say an average of 20 feet from the voting compartment. It shows (at least in my view) that the arrangements were faulty and lent themselves to the possibility of the secrecy of the ballot being violated at those 4 stations. I accept it as proved”, the C.J. had said. The Chief Justice also pointed out that it has been established beyond any doubt, that 295 ballot tickets were marked by Presiding Officers in Electoral District No. 13 on Polling Day, the 27th April, 1953, with the registered

By George Barclay

number of the voter or some other mark whereby the voter might have been identified. I have no reason to believe, however that as a result of that irregularity it became known during polling hours for whom any voter had cast his vote. I am, however quite satisfied that knowledge of the fact that tickets were being so irregulary marked became known in Electoral District N. 13 (Georgetown North) from early in the morning of Polling day and that a number of persons in that district were openly talking about that irregularity and expressing fears that it afforded a means of its becoming known for whom a voter had cast his vote. After viewing all the circumstances including the various irregularities the Chief Justice declared the North Georgetown election void.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

REFLECTION IS NECESSARY FOR ALL Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion I BELIEVE in reflection, so one evening I decided to invite some of the women from the Women’s Association for Sustainable Development, a few friends and some colleagues to my house for an Evening of Reflection and Inspiration. As we countdown to the end of 2018 I figured an evening like that can benefit us. It was scheduled to be three hours long and lasted for five and that is an indication that was a meaningful time together. It was a wide cross-section and everyone shared and it felt like a safe space to express yourself without anyone judging you. These are some of the comments. Clemencio Goddette “A night of reflection, inspiration, motivation, therapy and truth. It was so refreshing to be in a space where women come together, shared their stories and be supported by other women because we really need each other to survive this journey. Thank you Ms. Noel for these simple words with deep meaning, “WHY NOT YOU?” When life hits us, it is so easy to ask “WHY ME?” But everything we experienced helps to shape our future. I can’t wait for the next meet up.” Walterine Mc Leod “It is always a beautiful thing when women with a burst of positive energy and the strength to share from their hearts are able to inspire and take other women on an upward journey. It was quite a refreshing evening. Ladies, we are blessed. We are strong and we are overcomers. Let us create a ripple effect by touching and impacting one life at a time. God bless us all for He loves us unconditionally.” Maryam Jameela “A night full of inspiration and motivation. It was indeed wonderful to be a part of everyone’s recent successes.” Shondel Cummings “It was an inspiring evening. I was in tears to hear the experience of women in our society, women that have a positive impact on society and pass through all those negative situations and here I am throwing myself a pity party.” On my recent mastermind session, we were discussing the “Law of Reflection” in The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by my mentor John Maxwell. All the laws are important and I am witnessing the change in myself and students as a result of the content. There are many different ways of growing

and an infinite number of lessons to be learned in life. But there are some kinds of growth that come to us only if we are willing to stop, pause and allow the lesson to catch up with us. Experience is not the best teacher. Evaluated experience is! There’s an old joke that experience is a hard teacher because the test is given first and the lesson is given afterward. That’s true, but only if the person takes time to reflect after the experience. Otherwise, you receive the test first and the lesson may never come. People have innumerable experiences every day, and many learn nothing from them because they never take the time to pause and reflect. That’s why it is so important to pause and let understanding catch up with us. I think people make a big mistake here because they’re so focused on activity, being busy, and rush-rush-rush. The thought of taking time to reflect and evaluate their actions is too overwhelming. They tell themselves that they have no time to stop and reflect because they can’t afford to stop to take away from the activity. Doesn’t more activity get you ahead in life? Hence the problem with the average person is the failure to realise that doing a lot of the same will get you a lot of the same unless you stop, reflect, evaluate, and change your strategy. I was once on the hamster wheel and I am happy I came off and it was because of reflection. I have yet to meet a person who doesn’t benefit from pausing and reflecting. In fact, stopping to reflect is one of the most valuable activities a person can do to grow. It has much greater value to them than motivation or encouragement. Pausing allows them to make sure they are on the right track. After all, if someone is going down the wrong road, he doesn’t need motivation to speed up. He needs to stop, reflect, and change course. If we don’t take the time to pause and reflect, we can miss the significance of such events. Reflection allows those experiences to move from being life markers to life makers. We don’t have to wait until the end of the year to reflect because it can be part of our weekly or daily routine. I can go on but there is not enough space but I promise to continue. If you think my next mastermind will interest you don’t hesitate to send a message. This is the last Sunday in 2018 and I encourage us to make “REFLECTION” a priority as we celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

TOWARDS the end of November 2018, the head office of Scotiabank in Canada and Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), the parent company of the Republic Bank branch in Guyana, issued statements announcing that RFHL had entered into an agreement to purchase Scotia’s operations in Guyana, St Maarten, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines at a price of US$123 million. This purchase was to be subject to all regulatory and customary approvals and conditions. This announcement of the purchase of the Scotia branches came as a surprise to the business community and the rest of the Guyanese public and even at the Republic Bank branch’s Annual General Meeting which was held in Georgetown on Monday, December 10, it was disclosed that the local branch had no part in the negotiations to purchase Scotia’s Guyana branch. The main stakeholders, vis-à-vis this transaction, are the Bank of Nova Scotia, Republic Financial Holdings Limited, the Banking Industry of Guyana, the Consumers and the Public at large, and the Government of Guyana. So far, there has been little public debate on the sale and statements have been made only by Bank of Nova Scotia, Republic Financial Holdings Ltd and the Ministry of Finance but very little from the Banking Industry or the Consumers. Nova Scotia’s statement was largely concerned with their sale to RFHL and had little to say on the individual branches. RFHL’s main statement was made by its Chairman, Mr Ronald Harford. He said in his statement: “We purposefully seek out opportunities where we know our Group’s unique approach to financial services will make a substantial difference. Our interest, however, is not just in the financial well-being of our clients and employees, but in the overall success of the societies in which we operate and on which we depend for our livelihood. Our focus in seeking expansion opportunities in the Caribbean is a testament to our Group’s confidence and commitment to the Caribbean Region. We acknowledge the concerns expressed by the governments of Antigua and Barbuda and Guyana and we intend to fully comply with our regulatory requirements in fulfilling this vision. We are optimistic that when the facts are fully articulated to the relevant authorities, the merits associated with the Group’s presence in the various territories will become evident”. The Banking Industry has not so far expressed any public reaction and members of the Consumer Community have spoken in one or two letters to the editor. Hon. Winston Jordan, Minister of Finance, has however made the most important and impacting statement on the issue. Mr Jordan pointed that it will lead to a number of issues for the Banking Sector in Guyana and for the public which the Finance Ministry, the Bank of Guyana and the Government of Guyana will need to carefully consider. He showed where the acquisition of Scotia will give Republic Bank 51 per cent of the banking assets and deposits of the country. Mr Jordan went on to say: “The Scotiabank’s decision is made when Guyana’s economy is on the cusp of transformation with the massive new oil and gas sector raises concerns and is regretted. Among the concerns is the effect on competition and the potential for Republic Bank to have too much influence on the pricing of banking products and rates, issues related to correspondent banking options and loss of jobs as a result of Republic consolidating branches were other concerns”. The Consumer Community has three basic concerns in addition to those outlined by Minister Jordan. The first is that the banks operating in Guyana, especially the indigenous banks, would be miniaturised by the over-arching presence of Republic Bank. Such would be unhealthy for the Banking Sector of Guyana, the Private Sector and the consumers. The second concern is that if a foreign bank controls the Banking Sector especially now that Guyana is becoming an “oil state”, there could not be any guarantee that governmental or other confidential financial information be leaked to other countries or persons to the detriment of Guyana. In the national interest, we do not feel that the Banking Sector should

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Consumers reject Scotia (Guyana) sale to RFHL ever be dominated by foreign interests. The third concern is that if any one bank is allowed to control or dominate the Banking Sector, consumers could be placed in a position where bank charges and rates could be invidious and services offered could be poor or mediocre and there would be little or no redress for the consumer. The consumer community firmly supports Minister Jor-

dan’s statement and emphatically rejects the sale of the Scotia Guyana branch to RFHL. Other options should be explored, as for example, selling the bank to a local consortium. The consumer community welcomes the assurance that the Ministry of Finance will continue to stay abreast with the matter and will act in the best interest of the citizenry and issue updates as necessary.

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

EPA spreads Christmas cheer

CHRISTMAS is indeed one of the most wonderful times of the year. With the holiday season in full swing, the warmth and joy spread during this time, particularly in Guyana, is felt across the length and breadth of this beautiful nation. It is said that the best of all gifts around any Christmas tree is the presence of a happy family wrapped up with each other’s love. Unfortunately, this is a gift not everyone is fortunate to have, whether at Christmas or any other day of the year. It is on this note that, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pioneered its first ever “Toy and Gift Donation Drive” on December 21, 2018. Almost one hundred children from three care centres across Guyana were targeted in efforts to spread some cheers, warm their hearts and remind them that we care. The St. John’s Bosco Home in Plaisance on the East Coast, the Ruimveldt Children’s Home in Georgetown and the Hope Children’s Home in Enmore on the East Coast of Demerara were randomly selected to benefit from this charitable activity. These homes are all non-profit organisations that provide residential care to children in need. To make this event a success, thoughtful gift donations were made by staff of the agency for at least one child. In addition to presenting each child with an age-appropriate toy or personal care package, officers of the agency gave talks about the EPA and our role in environmental protection. There were also told why it’s important for them to keep and maintain a healthy environment. They were also encouraged to reuse gift bags and wrappings and take positive actions for the environment. The EPA embraces its cooperate and social responsibility as a semi-autonomous organisation, thereby, valuing and carefully considering human rights, the community, environment, and society in which it operates. The agency wishes to express gratitude to all our partners and those who have worked diligently to ensure the protection of our environment and sustainable use of natural resources. As a new year beckons, we hope that the goodwill, love and peace of the season permeate your lives and pave the way for a rewarding year ahead. Remember to be a part of the solution, not the problem. A productive 2019 everyone, from the management and staff of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ◄◄◄ From page XIII

The book has 10 chapters. The first chapter, ‘Dreams and Aspirations’, is a narrative of her very own story of wanting to become a doctor but her dream was short lived, and how she coped with the depression and the aftermath. In the chapter, she however fictionally put the ending as if she did end up returning to medical school and became the doctor she wants to become, maybe as a glimmer of hope for herself. “I started with my story, dreams and aspirations, you know, when you almost reach there to become the doctor you always dreamt of and you start having a set of setbacks, and people are telling you to go for another career; to do this instead; that the oil company get the money- but your passion is medicine and you want to become a doctor,” she said. At the end of each chapter which consists of short stories, there is an inspirational quote. She is also partaking in quantitative data collection to scientifically ascertain the number of persons enduring the various trials residing in her community. She is hoping for it to be published in the New Year. In the interim, Shellon is keeping busy by cooking meals and having them delivered on a daily basis for a living. She is also a part-time model.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018 ◄◄◄ From page XII

Nurses and Allied Professionals (AGNAP); the Food for the Poor, as well as other organisations. ********* In addition, she informed that the Beacon Foundation at the corners of Quamina and Carmichael Streets was closed down the hospice has also been able to benefit from a lot of the proceeds of that activity. THE NURSES’ PERSPECTIVE Nurse Shantille Li-A-Ping, one of the younger nurses on the team explained to the Pepperpot Magazine that she had to learn how to leave her own feelings for her patients ‘at the door of the office’, so as not to transfer such feelings to her loved ones at home and elsewhere. In fact, all the nurses were very frank in stating that, on many occasions, while rendering palliative care to their patients, they were crying on the inside and could not wait

Nurse Shantille Li-A-Ping with one of the patients, Ms. Nandanee Ragnauth, who was on a visit to the hospice from Corentyne, Berbice

Additionally, it says that palliative care provides relief from pain and other distressing symptoms; affirms life and regards dying as a normal process; intends neither to hasten nor postpone death, and it also integrates the psychological and spiritual aspects of patient care. A BUSY TIME Even during this season, the team of nurses working out of the Beacon Hospice has found themselves very busy, moving within five of the 10 administrative regions of Guyana. As part of their work, they are literally trying to ease the pain, while giving hope and life’s expectancy to the sick, some of whom are terminally ill. According to Nurse Bibi Salim (RN), Head of the medical team of the Beacon Hospice, at the moment the Beacon hospice team of nurses is offering palliative care to patients in regions of Three, Four, Five, Six and 10. And with a rigid schedule, they try to see their patients at least once every month. However, she said that it is unfortunate that they are not yet able to visit patients in many of the interior locations such as Regions One, Two, Three and Nine. “The geographic of Guyana does not permit the team to go to some of the regions at the moment. Though, if we have patients in any of the regions that we are not visiting who are diagnosed with cancer, whenever they come to Georgetown they come across to us and we assist in whatever way we can; and most of them do come across and we willingly do whatever we can to help them,” she stated. She said that most of the patients of the hospice make their first visit when they are already at stage four cancer; some are referred by the Oncology Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC); some are referred by private doctors; some by other patients who may have received care from the hospice or their relatives; and generally anyone who knows what is done at the hospice. ONLY BY INVITATION Nurse Salim noted that as nurses they do extensive visits to homes, but do not go to any home unless invited. She explained that for some people there is still a stigma attached to cancer and so they do not easily open up to people outside of their immediate surroundings. Therefore, her team, she explained, having respect for the rights and wishes of each individual would not ever visit a home uninvited. “Nonetheless, our team offers a lot of pain control through medications, most of which are provided by the Ministry of Health, at the same time they also offer multi-vitamins; advice of diet and how it can be supplemented. She said that since every patient is different they are advised differently on their approach to their meals, even though in general they are advised to stay away from meat – especially the red meats. “However, we do not impose our ideas on them; we allow them to talk; to let us know where they are at; also what their likes and dislikes are. We actually do a lot of listening – giving them the chance to express themselves and we also do a lot of counselling,” she said. In this regard, she stated that the team offers a bit of welfare because they have some benefactors such as the Christian Charities of Canada; Association of Guyanese

XXV to move away from such patients to go privately and weep because of what they felt for their patients. Nurse Ramsden noted that while as nurses they have to exhibit strength for their patients – so they encourage them and give them hope, at the same time as human beings, many times they simply cannot help but feel the pain and suffering, not only of the patients but also their families and friends. Nurse Salim, on the other hand, noted that as head of the medical team which visits various homes, there are times when she and others have to make sure that they do not give their patients false hope. She stated, “We have to sit with them – the patients, their families and caregivers and even as we offer palliative care, we must be able to engage them in that difficult conversation about life and death.”

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THE CHRISTMAS CHURCH SERVICE Hinterland people place a high premium on attending the Christmas Day church service and/or Christmas Eve night church service, depending on religious affiliation. Those events are highly looked forward to, even by some who never made the time to attend Church throughout the year. After attending either or both, and joining in the lusty

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

singing of favourite traditional Christmas hymns and carols such as ‘Silent Night’, ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ and ‘Joy to the World’, they invariably come out with a sense of feeling renewed and having accomplished something great. Another engagement to which country folk look forward in the Pomeroon and Mabaruma , but which has virtually faded out in the city, is Carol Singing, with folks trekking from neighbour to neighbour in the late afternoon singing carols and offering Christmas cheer, thereby bringing joy to the hearts of

‘shut-ins’ and others. And earlier in the day, people would engage in what is known as “Honey Goobie” where the younger children would also visit homes within the neighbourhood, thrilling hearts with choice choruses. In acknowledgement, they were given sweets, fudge, ice-apples, nuts and even cash, compliments for the season. The parents would, in turn, prepare goodies for the children.

DO NOT GO VISITING PEOPLE’S HOMES ON CHRISTMAS DAY It is the culture that Christmas is a day for the family and a visit from someone outside the household might be regarded as an intrusion. It is better to visit on Boxing Day, but better still, call before visiting to determine whether it is convenient for the family. FATHERS SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCOHOL IN THE PRESENCE OF THEIR CHILDREN IN THE HOME. You may wish to have the children engage in some meaningful activity such as playing with their toys, games or cell phones, while the father, in another part of the house, takes a ‘tups’ with a close friend or relatives in celebration of the joyous occasion. THE INTESTINAL FLUSH OUT It is part of the culture in these hinterland communities that parents de-worm or give their children laxatives or specific ‘bush medicine’ within the week leading up to Christmas, in anticipation of the eating spree in which they will be engaged for the holiday. But what is different about shopping for greens, meat, cassareep and items much in demand at Christmas time, is that unlike the city, such prices in the hinterland remain constant and affordable.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

The Impossibility of Keeping New Year’s Resolutions By Radhika Seth At the start of every year, we are bombarded with articles and adverts that extol the “New Year, New You” mantra, whether this involves becoming vegan, using less plastic, giving up sugar or investing in gym membership. The global appetite for self-improvement doesn’t appear to be waning: apps like Runkeeper and MyFitnessPal have millions of active users, motivational books remain as popular as ever and wellness podcasts are enjoying a new golden age. Our intentions are admirable, but the ensuing pressure can set us up for a fall. So, why do we subject ourselves to this endless cycle of expectation and failure? Put it down to 4,000 years of reinforcement. The tradition of New Year’s resolutions stretches back to the ancient Babylonians, who made promises to the gods at the beginning of each year. It was common in Julius Caesar’s Rome and had religious parallels in early Christianity and Judaism where worshippers sought to better themselves annually. Today it is practiced around the world, with resolutions varying widely from place to place. According to research conducted by Strava, a global social network for athletes, 12th January is the day when most people give up on their New Year’s resolutions. Meanwhile, a 2015 ComRes poll for Bupa shows that 43 per cent of people in the UK who gave up did so in under a month. The number of British adults who successfully kept a resolution that year stood at just 12 per cent. John C. Norcross, professor of psychology at the University of Scranton, attributes this drop-off to “abstinence violation”, the negative cognitive response experienced after returning to something following a period of self-imposed withdrawal. “If you stayed on budget for six weeks and then you violated the goal, you might say, “I blew it, I’m done,” says Norcross. “The way you respond to that first lapse profoundly influences whether you’re likely to get back on the horse.” Many simply do not. In fact, data suggests that our habit of making grandiose resolutions goes hand in hand with the knowledge that we cannot keep them. Last year, a YouGov poll in the UK revealed that the most common New Year’s resolutions were to eat better, exercise more, spend less money and get more sleep. Another poll conducted by Bupa asked 2,000 people whether they expect to stick to their goals. Half of those asked were not confident that they could, while 20 per cent admitted to setting overly ambitious and potentially unsustainable goals. This may seem counterproductive, but it is a symptom of living in a society obsessed with self-improvement. 20 years ago, New Year’s resolutions might have been the only goals you set yourself for the year, but now we are trained to strive for perfection every day. The Guardian columnist Brigid Delaney describes this pattern of indulgence and penitence in her 2017 book Wellmania: Misadventures in the Search for Wellness. “Many of us in the West – those privileged enough to have time and disposable income – are living in times of high decadence,” she writes. “We swing from excess to self-imposed deprivation with dizzying speed and frequency. There’s the Christmas holiday binge followed by the February detox; the mindset meditation apps that you can use when you need a quick break from multi-tasking.” As a result, unfulfilled New Year’s resolutions can fuel our anxiety, adding to this sense of never having done enough. While New Year’s resolutions are not impossible to keep, the lengths we go to can be counterproductive. If there is a bad habit you want to break, think of it as a longterm plan instead of a New Year’s resolution, says Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habit. “Much more important than setting a far off goal, like running a marathon, is to set an immediate plan that you can start right away.” Change, he believes, ought to be incremental, without an arbitrary time limit. After all, at the end of Bridget Jones’s Diary our heroine hasn’t curbed her drinking, quit smoking or reached her goal weight – but she’s achieved so much more. https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/the-impossibility-of-keeping-new-years-resolutions

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Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

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English

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Dear Student, As you continue preparing examination type questions, continue recognising their key words. This reading technique ensures proper reading and exact noting of what questions are asking. Note that misreading a question is a very unhealthy habit. But do not be over-anxious even in the examination room, for careful assessment of questions will help you find those which are quite possible for you to answer in keeping with your correct perception of them. Be wise. Love you. THE PASSAGE The spotted flycatcher seems to live entirely on insects that it catches in the air. It chooses as a perch a dead branch or a bare

rail, from which it can have a clear view and flight. With the spotted flycatcher each insect is the object of a separate flight and chase. Other birds, chaffinches for example, may be seen to do the same thing with some particularly attractive insect, such as Mayfly; but they are not so expert, and with them the practice is an exception and not a habit. The spotted flycatcher’s plumage is dull, and the male and female are alike. When the young are fledged, they are much in evidence, perched on some convenient place, such as the garden fence, waiting to be fed by the old birds. The young of a pair that nested in creepers by the garden door at Fallowfield appeared in a row on the lawn-tennis net in the morning when they left the nest. SOME WORK ON THE PASSAGE

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

1. Give the passage a suitable name. 2. Which is the cleverer at fly-catching, the chaffinch or the spotted flycatcher? Tell your study partner why. 3. What have you observed about the writer’s skill in language use and self-expression? Make a list to include aspects such as: a) general way of writing (expressing meaning, feeling); b) quality of expression in terms of understanding, insight, sensitivity to subject matter; c) particular use of words, phrases to communicate something of interest to reader/writer; 4. Discuss with a study partner, the expert beauty in the writer’s coining of the following quoted pieces? i) ‘The spotted flycatcher seems to live entirely on insects’; ii) ‘It chooses as a perch a dead branch or a bare rail’; iii) ‘When the young are fledged, they are much in evidence’; iv) ‘The young of a pair … appeared in a row on the lawn-tennis net’. 5. Write a short depiction about the characteristics of any chosen living thing for a young audience of writers, following the exemplary two-paragraph passage above. Mind the sentence structures and other skills of expression you use!

Said my mother, “What is all this story about?” “A Cock and a Bull,” said Yorick. LAURENCE STERNE (1713-1768) Tristram Shandy, bk. ix, ch. 33

GRAMMAR 1) Future Tense One authority says that in English grammar, the simple future is a form of the verb that refers to an action or event that has not yet begun. It is also used to make a prediction or to show ability, intention, or determination. Also called the future simple. The future tense to state an action or condition to come can be expressed in many ways to enhance your stories and descriptions. It is expressed by placing the helping verb will or shall (or a contracted form of will or shall) in front of the base form of a verb (e.g., “I will travel tomorrow”; “I won’t travel on Thursday”). Beside using shall or will with the base form, try using these other forms: ? going to with the present tense of be and the base form of a verb. They are going to present team jerseys any time now. ? about to with the present tense of be and the base form of the verb. Chef Eva is about to send the gourmet dinner over here. ? present tense with an adverb phrase that shows future time. Jerry travels on 1st January. 2) Vocabulary Suffixes Suffixes: The suffixes –tion and –sion mean “the act or process of doing something” or “the result of doing something.” They are used to form new words.

These suffixes usually form nouns. For example, the word intention is formed when –tion is added to the verb intend. An intention is what you intend. Something to Do: Answer each question in a complete sentence. In your answer, use the noun formed by adding –tion or – sion to the underlined word. You can use a dictionary to check the spelling. 1. What do you use to persuade someone? 2. What do you have when things contradict each other? 3. What do you have when you revise something? 4. What do you have when you appreciate so LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS Punctuation Marks: The Comma Supply commas where they are needed, and state why. “Comma” comes from a Greek word meaning “to cut off.” By doing just that, the comma helps to keep the sense of the various sections of a sentence clear. It generally sets off or separates elements within a sentence. 1. Each man, woman, and child in the group was asked to contribute. (Separate items in a series.) 2. He spoke of a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” (Separate items in a series.) 3. This parcel, by the way, arrived at noon, did it not? (Set off a parenthetical expression; set off a short clause that changes a sentence into a question.) 4. The temperature was below freezing, but he went out without a hat. (Separate the clauses of a compound sentence joined by a co-ordinate conjunction.) 5. The stage lighting was brilliant, and the colours were vivid. (Separate the clauses of a compound sentence joined by a co-ordinate conjunction.) 6. The warm, green earth exuded a fragrance of spring. (Separate co-ordinate modifiers.) 7. “I doubt,” he replied gravely, “that there is sufficient evidence.” (separate the exact words of a speaker.) 8. Mother, may I have the check? (a case of direct address.) 9. Your grandparents, Susan and Mark, were married on April 24, 1974 at four o’clock. (Setting off information that can be omitted without a problem in meaning. Separate the parts of a date.) 10. “We should perhaps,” Nancy suggested, “wait, shouldn’t we?” (Separate the exact words of a speaker. Set off a short clause that changes a sentence into a question.)

Chronicle Pepperpot December 30, 2018

Split Peas Cook Up

INGREDIENTS 3 cups parboiled rice 1cup uncooked split peas 8 pieces pigtail (soaked for approx. 1 hr) (Optional) 2lbs Beef (Cubed) (Also Optional, omit all meat if you are Vegan) 1 large onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, peeled and halved Fresh seasoning – chive, thyme, shadon beni, chopped finely Large pinch of black pepper 1 oz butter INSTRUCTIONS Wash rice and set aside. Wash peas and put to cook in water over meduim high heat with pig tail and garlic until peas can be crushed but not too soft. Brown Beef Add chopped onion, chives, thyme etc. which has been cut up finely and also black pepper. After approx. 5-10 minutes add rice and butter, turn down heat, cover pot. When water has been absorbed (say 5 minutes) stir and add a little water covering tightly. Turn heat to low and let rice simmer until cooked approx. 15 minutes. You may add a little water the 2nd time if required. Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve.

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