Guyana Chronicle PepperPot E-paper 12-23-2018

Sunday, December 23, 2018

These are some of the faces of the unsung heroes behind your daily news stories. From the Board, Management and Staff of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited, we wish you a Merry Christmas! (Samuel Maughn photo)

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Christmas in the II

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

‘Ghetto’

Scenes from Albouystown (Photos by Delano Williams)

By Michel Outridge

way or the other. When the Pepperpot Magazine caught up with Wilford Prince, he was washing some clothes with his daughter and said this time of the year is ‘pressure’ on the men- especially if they are fathers, because children look to them to make things ‘merry’.

EVERY year during this festive season, we look to bring you a glimpse of how persons in different parts of society celebrate Christmas. For some it is more difficult than others, but it is always good to acknowledge that joy can be found in many places. This year, the folks in Tiger Bay said they are hoping for a cheerful Christmas, particularly for their children, despite their shortcomings throughout the year. Senior citizen, Kenneth Samuels told the Pepperpot Magazine that he lives in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, but during the week because of work he usually stays in Tiger Bay with his son. He said Christmas in the ‘ghetto’ is just like any other place where people come together to make merry and celebrate. CHRISTMAS VIBES Samuels related, “In Tiger Bay, it does be nice because everybody does be out on the road, partaking in whatever they have such as foods and drinks.” This elderly gentleman was sitting outside his son’s house just ‘taking some breeze’ when the Pepperpot Magazine visited the community. He stated that this year, he will spend the season at his house in Tuschen with all his grandchildren,which number more than 20. He noted that Tiger Bay is a close-knit village and the unity in the village is one where the folks ‘make do’ with whatever they

The community of Tiger Bay (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

have to brighten each other’s Christmas. This Christmas, Samuels, a security guard, said he will not be working and is looking forward to spending the season with his loved ones. THE SEASON HAS CHANGED Meanwhile, Norma Kerr, who was manning a cook shop in Tiger Bay said Christmas these days is not like before because of the changes, but reminisced that as a child she did enjoy the festive season.

At 83 years old, Kerr told the Pepperpot Magazine that she sees the season designed these days for young people as such, she takes backstage and lets the youths enjoy. For her, cooking is her thing and on Christmas Day, she will be doing the same for her children, grandchildren and countless relatives. Like many folks in the community, they are waiting to see what money they get to try to make a Merry Christmas for their families and like always ‘something’ will work out one

PRIVATE SECTOR SPREADS JOY He pointed out that usually on Christmas Day persons from the private sector and other communities would come to Tiger Bay with van loads of toys and goodies for the children in the village. “Them rich people, who own stores and so does come every year and give stuff to the children and it does really be nice and it is a nice time in Tiger Bay especially for the children,” Prince said. The 31-year-old added that the children always look forward to this gesture and they are also given food and drinks. Being a father, Prince said this year, he is hoping they get the same blessings since things are not going so well financially. Amelia Andrews, 10, told this newspaper that she is optimistic that toys will come her way since she has been “good all year”. ALBOUYSTOWN At Hogg Street, Albouystown, the Pepperpot Magazine met Kevin Massiah, who said that as a child he liked Christmas but the holidays have somewhat simmered down over the years. Turn to page XII►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

III

The ‘Joshua’ children and Christmas High expectations and a sense of belonging and the Child Protection Unit, I was able to get training, which helped me to get the capability to get organised and to really help the children,” she said. “I had the knowledge as a mother of five – one boy and four girls, but now this was a totally different type of situation with different children, even though I always see the children like my children and try my best at all times to treat them that way,” she offered. NUMBER AND AGES VARY Accra stated that the number of children in the JHCC varies from time to time. She noted that such numbers range from 65-70. Currently, they have 45 children in the home. There are 18 girls and 27 boys, with their ages ranging from six years old to 17 years of age; many of them are in primary school and some others are in secondary schools. She said that children who pass through different sad situations; abandonment, neglect and different other situations all form part of the home. These children come from different parts of Guyana – in other words, they represent every part of Guyana, she noted. EDUCATION VERY IMPORTANT

Children of the Joshua House Children’s Centre milling around one of their Christmas trees

By M Margaret Burke CHRISTMAS is in the air and with a visit to the children of the Joshua House Children’s Centre (JHCC) one would immediately get the impression that something good is coming down. In an exclusive interview with the centre’s Administrator, Gladys Accra, the Pepperpot Magazine was told that Christmas for the children of the JHCC is not just the day, but is observed for the entire season. “The children really love it; they look forward with much enthusiasm because it is a time when many give them all sorts of treats, toys and all the good things that come with the celebration of the entire season,” she said. “At the same time, we want to let people who show such love and concern for these children, not only at Christmas time but throughout the year, know that we are truly grateful; we could not do it without them,” she noted. Accra said that even before the close of school, the children of JHCC begin to sense the joy; begin to feel the satisfaction of the goodwill that such a season has to offer. This, she said, is mostly because of the different organisations and individuals who may remember to stop by; to take presents or even arrange to take the children out for treats at Christmas. SERVICE TO THE JHCC Accra, who has been serving children of the centre for more than 25 years, told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is truly grateful to God for giving her such a privilege. She explained that her late husband, Clifford Accra introduced her to the JHCC when he brought her and their five children to Guyana from the Dominican Republic in January 1992. She said that by 1994 she was asked to assist at the centre, which she was very happy to do and is still there, even after her husband died. “At the time, the JHCC was in need of a lot of improvements; I saw that the home needed more of everything and so I started to think – I made a plan; prayed to God; then through different workshops, especially through UNICEF

Accra said that when a boy or girl from the JHCC attains the age of 18 years of age they are required to find other means of accommodation, even though they are not instantly thrown out on the road. “It is for this reason that we really try to help and encourage them to do their best at school, or where they may not be that academically inclined to get involved in some type of skill-training, so that they can become better equipped for the world of work,” she said. “Once they are able to maintain themselves then they should be able to either pay for a place to stay or in some cases, parent(s), family members or others might be willing to have them stay with them.” Furthermore, she stated that in general, the JHCC is always happy to see children coming out of the home become very successful and that they are able to apply their knowledge or skill to make the best of their lives after leaving. So far, she said, they are very pleased with the success of some of the children. The building of a career path for each and every child who happens to be part of the home is what is very important, she said. CHRISTMAS TREE Accra said that early on Christmas morning, the children of the home are awakened to gather around the Christmas tree, where each and every one of them receives a gift. She said that with the help of the older ones and staff, gifts are wrapped for all the children and then placed under a large Christmas tree. “I do not think that some of them even sleep on Christmas Eve – they are so happy; overjoyed with expectation for the day’s activities. The thing is that you feel happy when you see

Gladys Accra, Administrator of the Joshua House Children’s Centre

their happiness – the joy of the children is also my joy,” she stated. Most of all, Accra emphasised that even though they are never hungry, one thing that the JHCC wants for them is to be hungry for success in life. FOUNDERS The Joshua House Children’s Centre (JHCC) commenced operations in Guyana in 1977 in Subryanville, when a small group of members from the Unification Church rescued some children from what they considered to be unstable home situations. However, as the situation increased, the then church leader P. Barbara Burrowes-Van Praag, along with other church members, officially started a centre for the underprivileged children of the society in the latter half of 1977. Soon after and until 1985, the JHCC continued to experience a complete transformation from what was once a three-storied family house in the midst of dense vegetation to its present two flat and double tailored, double lot surroundings. This provided some amount of space for the children to have outdoor activities such as a basketball court, swing and slides, as well as other recreational facilities. There is even availability of space for a little kitchen garden. The centre is now located in Thomas Street, Georgetown. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)

Children of the Joshua House Children’s Centre playing on a slide in the yard

IV

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

A White and Cozy Christmas in New York A visitor’s first-time experience

By Indrawattie Natram

Standing next to the Goonan’s Christmas tree in 2017

CHRISTMAS has always been one of my favourite holidays of the year. It is a time when family comes together, friends exchange gifts and an atmosphere of love and togetherness is often created. In 2017, I was fortunate to experience a white Christmas in the United States of America (USA). It was one to remember and this year I have opted to spend Christmas again there. When I say “white Christmas”, I mean it was snowing which is such a new experience for a country girl who grew up on the Essequibo Coast in the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region. Needless to say, spending Christmas in the States last year for the first time was a new experience for me, especially having celebrated almost 25 years of Christmas in Guyana. After boarding Air India Airlines from India and arrived at the John F Kennedy (JFK) Airport on December 24, the atmosphere created by the staff of the airport was truly magical and by the time I exited to my destination I was already in the Christmas spirit. Although the place was “freezing” cold, the warmth experienced from the people there was remarkable. Moving from the airport, I keenly observed the new surroundings before I finally reached my destination in Long Island. On my way I noticed the leafless trees standing tall. Interestingly they were all decorated with “fairy lights” adding to the ambience of the cold night. Christmas Eve was spent with relatives in the Queens, New York. Everyone was indoor viewing Christmas movies, and of course waiting for the clock to hit midnight to get under the Christmas tree to get their respective gifts. Eggnog was served all night and of course, many of the Guyanese living in Queens played some chutney music to end the night. Christmas Day I was invited to the Goonan’s house in Freeport, New York to spend the Christmas. At the press of the doorbell, I was greeted by my lovely friend, Mala Sharma Goonan and her family, some of whom were Guyanese-born but are now Americans. The table was neatly laid and it was time for dinner. Prayers were said and then everyone indulged in the American Christmas meal of pasta, chicken, grilled lamb amongst other delicacies. After dinner, gifts were distributed and everyone gathered around the fireplace for warmth. Old stories and fun that happened throughout the years were remembered and laughter was exchanged. It was quite different for me to be indoors since, in Guyana, we would have been in the yard lighting crackers or following the masquerades.

By midnight, I peeped through the window and saw a white substance gushing from the sky. It was snowing. Even though I wanted to go outside, I remained indoors as it would be very cold. I stood admiring the beauty of a white Christmas. It was definitely different from a Caribbean Christmas and it was certainly one to remember!

Me and Mala Goonan. She invited me to come and experience a White Christmas

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

V

A Guyanese Christmas in Washington, DC By Francis Quamina Farrier

tough-looking diplomat: “What has been your most memorable adventure in Guyana?” He responded, “An overland trip from Georgetown to Lethem.” As those who have made that trip in more recent times, it is known that the trail is not the easiest one to traverse, but Ambassador Perry Holloway has listed it as an adventure he will always remember with joy. Not at the event at the Embassy, Georgetown-born and a founding member of the Guyana Defence Force, Pennsylvania, USAbased Clairmont A. Griffith was invited via email to reminisce on Christmas in Georgetown, back in the day: “Christmas remains

THE traditional annual Christmas gathering of Guyanese at the Guyana Embassy in Washington DC, brought together Guyanese of every background, as they mingled the way Guyanese do at most fetes. Some of those who were in attendance have not been home for many years, while there are those who visit regularly. As such, there was lots of discourse about the developments taking place across the 10 Regions of Beautiful Guyana, including the recently announced discovery of oil and gas within Guyana’s Atlantic sovereign territory. However, much of what was in evidence was the comraderie of Guyanese of many backgrounds and professions, and the way in which the Christmas spirit, as known in Guyana, was in evidence. There was the live music dishing out lots of Guyanese favourites, including the popular folk songs which we all love. There was, of course, the dancing, and eating and drinking. The cuisine was very much Guyanese, including our popular Indigenous National Guyanese Paul Browne and Gabriel Cunje enjoying each other’s company at the Embassy Christmas Fete, 2018 dish, Pepperpot. Most of what was (Photo by F.Q. Farrier)

Aubrey Stephenson, AA, Valda Forsythe and Dr. Hermon Daniels (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

enjoyed was sponsored by Guyanese individuals and companies; the principal being Aubrey Stephenson, AA, the President and CEO of Federal Management Systems, Inc. Gracing the Yuletide event with their presence were recently retired American Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway and his wife, who seemed as Guyanese as any non-Guyanese could be. Before he left, I took the opportunity to pose a question to the

my Favourite Holiday Season”, he responded and explained his experiences when he was a young boy growing up in British Guiana. “I fondly remember Christmas window shopping with my parents, two sisters and two brothers at the big department stores on Water Street - Bettencourts, Fogarty’s, Sandbatch Parker and Bookers Universal, and at T. Geddes Grant on Main Street.” For the Griffith’s family and so many others, “The evening shop-

A group of the guests at the Embassy Christmas Fete, 2018 (Photo by F.Q. Farrier)

Mr. and Mrs Farrier with American Ambassador Perry Holloway and Mrs Holloway (Photo by F.Q. Farrier)

ping in front of the Stabroek Market where many parents purchased imported fruits and nuts from the vendors that lined the pavement,” he concluded. “Christmas in Guyana has an excitement that is not found anywhere else. It starts with ‘breaking up’ of your house for Christmas. Office parties, church recitals and decorating with beautiful, colourful Christmas lights around the city,” said Georgetown-born, New York-based Graphic Artist and a graduate of The Bishops’ High School, Claire Ann Goring. “My best memory is of Christmas Eve night when the Salvation Army Band would end the Christmas carolling at our house... Our house was next door to the Salvation Army Church on East Street (in Georgetown) and I never went to bed until Eddie Richards and the band played ‘Silent Night’ under our window. Somehow, I saw that as the start of a good Christmas.” Manager and owner of the Stoll Enterprise on the Pomeroon River and Adel’s Resort on the Akawani Creek, Zena Stoll, was at the

Embassy fete on December 14 and told me that she will be spending Christmas in Guyana. As such, I asked her the obvious. “The Guyana Embassy party was a huge success, with the rich diversity of people being entertained by a joyful steel drum band,” she said, adding that on arrival she received a warm welcome from Ambassador Riyad Insanally and that “The night was a direct reflection of the engaging work he is doing for Guyana as Ambassador to the USA and the OAS.” By now, she would have already arrived at her Pomeroon destination, even as you are reading this. “The Christmas celebration there in the Pomeroon with my indigenous workers and friends is nothing short of magical to me.” She was also overjoyed to hear American Ambassador Perry Holloway say that he visited the Pomeroon during his tour of duty in Guyana and knows of her estate. Enjoying the best of both worlds - the developed USA and the developing Guyana at Christmas time-Zena Stoll said that “The night at the Guyana Embassy in Washington, DC, was a great kick off to the Christmas season for me, with Guyanese and expatriates, including Ambassador Perry Holloway and his charming wife, mingling with his Guyanese friends.” And from me to you, do have a peaceful and HAPPY CHRISTMAS.

VI

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018 The happy children of last year’s activity

Bringing cheer to children Guyana Premier and Youths on the Rise Guyana partner for special project

By Gibron Rahim CHRISTMAS is the season of giving. It is the time of year when many give back to those who may not have had as fortunate a year as them. The holidays are

a time for friends and family, but also for neighbours and community. It is in this same spirit that Guyana Premier, in partnership with Youths on the Rise Guyana, undertook charity activities for the holidays.

Chief Operations Officer Dave Lalltoo (left) and Omesh Balmacoon, Managing Executive of Guyana Premier (centre) at last year’s activity

The Pepperpot Magazine spoke to Omesh Balmacoon, Co-Founder and Managing Executive of Guyana Premier, to learn more about the motivation behind this year’s activity. Guyana Premier was established in 2016 with fellow Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer Dave Lalltoo at the helm. This is not the first time that the brand has undertaken charity work. Balmacoon explained that one of their first charity endeavours was a back to school drive in August 2017 which targeted 1000 underprivileged children from Leguan and students of Belvedere Secondary School. “We targeted 1000 underprivileged kids and we provided back-to-school supplies for them that would last them the entire school year,” he said. Through sponsorship, Guyana Premier

was able to provide backpacks packed with school supplies. The school supplies included books, pencils, crayons, geometry sets and rulers. Shoes were also provided. The Guyana Premier team also spent the day with them. The day’s agenda included lunch, snacks, activities and a mini-concert for the children. The back-to-school drive was repeated this year, this time at Vreeden-Hoop Primary School. It is notable that Guyana Premier is the national franchise holder of the Miss Earth Guyana Pageant. Thus, along with this year’s back to school drive, Guyana Premier collaborated with Miss Earth Guyana, Xamiera Kippins, and Everything Makes Craft to host an upcycling workshop for the children. Turn to page XXV►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

VII

Another Christmas with the youth

Julius Bacchus

to her, “It’s just very fulfilling.” Seeram shared, too, that her parents are divorced so she spends Christmas “kind of back-and-forth” with them. But that doesn’t dampen the merriment; instead, it just means that she would have two different Christmas celebrations. And now that she’s spending Christmas with her mom, she says that the celebrations are very traditional. Of course, going to church on Christmas is a must.

By Vishani Ragobeer FOR 16-year-old Julius Bacchus, it’s hard to decide which is the better part of his Christmas morning; the “lovely, lovely” breakfast or tearing into his gifts- which hopefully are toys that he can play with!

Delicia Seeram

Kevin Cornette

You might be thinking that at his age, what is he doing with toys, right? Well, it just so happens that Christmas brings out your inner child like no other. It also brings out the best in people and brings families closer together- at least for Julius! On the evening of December 25, you’d better believe that the entire family must sit down together to watch a Christmas classicwhether it’s `Home Alone’, `A Christmas Story’ or some other movie they’ve probably seen 20 times before. But aside from the gifts, the food and traditions, Julius remarked: “Christmas is a time of peace; it is a time where you can get together with family and friends and have no stress or suffering.” Added to that, he said it’s a time to remember otherseven if it means just spending some time with them. And believe it or not, perhaps all of the youth believe that Christmas is a time for paying it forward. Take Delicia Seeram for example. At Christmas, she and her family always distribute gifts to those children who might not be as fortunate during the season. Why? Well according

Latisha Jack, also says that going to church is a must on Christmas Day. As they say, “Jesus is the reason for the season” and Jack and her family believe this entirelybut it doesn’t hurt that there’s gift-giving at church too! When church is finished, it’s back to the cake in the oven baking and time to dig right into all of the favourite Christmas foods and goodies. For Naveena Rambharose, Christmas means a lot of things. She affirmed, “Christ-

Latisha Jack

mas means a time of uniting and giving. It is a time where you expect to give whatever you can afford to those who are less fortunate than you. It is a period where families put aside their differences that occurred during the year and forgive each other and unite as one. It is a time where you forgive those who ever went against you or wronged you in any way and prepare for a new beginning.” During the season, she has to visit the children at the orphanage at Cornelia Ida and spend some time with them. And on Christmas Day, she goes to Leguan to spend the day with her grandfather and other relatives. What’s makes it even better is that they almost always have a barbecue cookout. “I believe Christmas is a time for family and friends, so during this season my family and I try to spread love and joy to all we encounter,” Sarah Singh said. During this time, her family has certain traditions they hold dear to

them- like decorating their home together, making Pepperpot or even driving around to look at the lights. On Christmas morning, she also goes to church, and the rest of the day is left to open presents, enjoy all the good food and share out gifts to others. Watching the Christmas classics goes without saying, but when it’s time for the Stretch Out Magazine and the other local satirical programmes, these classics take the backseat in the Singh’s family. Twenty-five-year-old Jason Moe also has traditions

Naveena Rambharose

he holds dear. “At Christmas time and as a usual practice, I try to spread cheer, both to the less fortunate and to

Sarah Singh

the random individuals in which I come into contact,” he shared. He does this because, for him, Christmas is a time for reflection on the birth of the Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It is also a time for loved ones to get together, embrace each other and make the most out of the occasion. But though the younger people hold their traditions dear now, perhaps there comes a time when these Christmas traditions might be replaced by new ones for some. As a child, Christmas for Kevin Cornette was celebrated traditionally. You knowThe usual routine where you got the house cleaned (spick and span, no exceptions!) weeks in advance, wrap the presents and put them under

the tree, and get the Pepperpot and black cake made just right. As a young adult with his own family now, Kevin says Christmas is not celebrated the same way. “For my family, we’ve decided that we don’t want to celebrate Christmas the traditional way but rather we would want to go out more and be part of more outside activities- instead of the traditional way of staying home and just enjoying with the family,” he explained. Despite his journey to-

Jason Moe

wards creating his own traditions, Cornette said: “In my heart, Christmas still has the same meaning- it is the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ.”

VIII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Those were the days Baking in the box oven at Christmas time

A mud fireside commonly known as `Cow Mouth’

By Wendella Davidson GROWING up in the countryside in years gone by, you were bound to find two treasured possessions in almost every home; a fireside which was commonly called a `cowmouth’ and a box oven. Both were cleverly put together using bricks and dabbed with a paste mixture comprising mud, cow dung and water. The fireside, which was mainly for cooking, was enclosed with either a single or two holes at the top over which the pot rested, and an opening at the front to allow for the firewood to be placed inside and for the fire to be lit.

The box oven, on the other hand, was either square or oblong in shape with a door and about two shelves which, for the most part, were pieces of discarded steel measuring the width of the box so that the baking pan can sit comfortably. Below the shelves, there must be enough space to hold a coal pot in which the fire is lit using coals. Atop the oven were usually about three rice bags. Two were wet and placed atop the oven and allowed to drape to the sides, while the other was used to hold the door firmly. The wet bags served as the heat regulator. The box oven can either be on the ground or elevated. I can relate to this manmade wonder as I was born on the Essequibo Coast and I spent

my formative years living with my grandparents in Danielstown Village. We had both, so I have lots of memories using them. The box oven was mainly for baking bread, cakes and buns with the occasional baking of a fowl or turkey on very special occasions. For the baking of the bread, the dough is first kneaded, and as it begins to rise a few pieces of pitch-pine wood is placed between the coals and the fire is lit. Mind you, there are no knobs to control the heat as is obtained on the present day ovens, and as I was reminded by an overseas-based friend, she was and is still mesmerised at how my grandmother – and practically anyone who used this mechanism- was able to control the temperature in the oven and roll out some golden brown top bread and An outer view of a traditional box oven from which cakes just by using the soaked bags. some golden brown top bread and cakes were I guess it was as a result of constant churned out. practice. With a strong breeze blowtaste, not to mention the bread which was ing, the aroma that came from those box ovens when the bread and cakes were eaten on Christmas Day with pepperpot which was cooked and simmered on a coal baked is unforgettable. As for me, the cakes had such a unique pot. Those were the days!

A box oven complete with shelves on which the pan with the dough for cakes and bread were rested, also with a makeshift coalpot

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

The hustle and bustle

IX

Shopping downtown during the festive season

Jai Kisum in his empty store at Robb Street

Bargain hunters at Regent Street (Photos by Delano Williams)

By Michel Outridge

A young lady Christmas shopping

Shopping at Camp Street

THE streets of downtown Georgetown are usually transformed at this time of the year into a crowded mass of shoppers trying to complete their shopping list before the ‘big’ day. When the Pepperpot Magazine took to the streets last week, the busy Regent Street was packed as usual with shoppers, bargain hunting at the many stores that lined that street. This newspaper spoke to sales representative Vanessa Abrahams who said that the spirit of the festive season is gaining momentum with mostly out of town shoppers, among

others. She related that it had been slow so far, but remained optimistic that things will pick up as Christmas drew nearer. Meanwhile, store owner, Mia Seeram of Mia’s Variety Store on Regent Street said she feels as though Christmas this year was postponed because it is just slow and dreary. She told the Pepperpot Magazine that last year and the years before around this time, they didn’t have hands to sell but this year they are only seeing a few shoppers and felt it was like “the

Grinch stole Christmas.” Seeram hoped that the days would be brighter as the days roll by and like many others, she, too, is looking forward to a good Christmas. At Robb Street, two lovely young ladies were busy trying to make purchases of curtains and other household items at one of the many stores and said they wanted to shop early to ensure they ‘fix up’ the house in good time. At that time, they had managed to get everything they were looking for and said that indeed it was beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

Turn to page X►►►

X

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

That jolly ol’ couple

Santa and Mrs Claus By Michel Outridge

DRESSING up as Santa Claus and Mrs Claus- perhaps two of the most recognisable figures of modern Christmases- is not exactly an easy task, but two Demerara Bank Limited staffers played their roles well for 100 orphans for whom the bank hosted a fun-day and Christmas party on Sunday. The Pepperpot Magazine encountered the pair at the event and they seemed to be in-tune with their roles as the group of children, who were drawn from four orphanages, gathered at

the Indian Monument Gardens located at Church Street and North Road, Georgetown. Officer-in-Charge of the Foreign Trade Department, Mark Balram, said it is his second time being Santa Claus and he was selected among his peers at the office because of his built. He related that he did it for the children as it is Christmas but the experience was good since the youngest of the group had a lot of questions for him. Fielding those questions, Balram said he had to think on his feet because he did not want to shatter the hopes of the children, who often believe that Santa Claus is real.

Santa and Mrs Claus

Balram stated that the younger children were excited to be around him and he had a good time playing with them around the bouncy castle and the trampoline. He noted that last year was the first time he donned the suit of the jolly ol’ St Nick when the bank staff went to visit. He stated that it was truly quite an experience. “I would do it anytime for the children because being Santa is fun and the children really like being around Santa Claus and I like to put smiles on their little faces especially at this time of the year,” Balram said. Meanwhile, Christina Correia, Branch Liaison Officer at Demerara Bank Limited, who dressed as Mrs Claus, told the Pepperpot Magazine that it was her first time and she really enjoyed making the children feel happy and she managed to get along well with the group. Even though it was just for one day, she explained that she will remember the experience because the children seemed so happy. For Correia, the reaction of the children was a “Kodak moment” for her when they first saw Santa at their fun-day and Christmas party, and she stated that it was the ‘icing on the cake’ and it was all for the children. She pointed out that next year they want to do more but she is not sure what they will plan since it’s all about brightening Christmas for the less fortunate. Michel Outridge photos saved in a folder named Santa and Mrs Claus ◄◄◄ From page IX

Also on Robb Street, store owner, Jai Kisum said that two to three years ago business boomed this time of year, but this year he is wondering what happened. “It is like the spending power isn’t here because people just walking around and hardly shopping,” he said. At the City Hall, this newspaper met Avinash Chattergoon, who was shopping with his wife, however, laden with bags he says the process has been from one store to the next and he happens to be the one carrying all the bags. He added that it was his wife’s idea to shop early and avoid the rush and that suits him just fine, since he will have time for the family for Christmas. There were scores of shoppers, mostly women on the hunt for bargains at the stores on Regent and Robb Streets and other commercial wards of the city as Christmas is almost upon us. Even though most store owners expressed their disappointment at the low shopper turnout this year, they are hopeful ‘things’ will pick up coming close to Christmas when some folks indulge in the ‘last minute’ shopping experience. This year, there seemed to be more vendors than actual buyers in downtown Georgetown but the foreigners were noticeably out in their numbers shopping at the Chinese-owned stores. The hustle and bustle of shoppers during the Christmas season is not yet dead.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XI

Christmas in the country Spending Christmas in Essequibo

Youth enjoying the season by being part of the masquerade band

A performer from the band

By Indrawattie Natram WHILE spending Christmas in the US was wonderful, there is still quite nothing like Christmas at home in Guyana. Masqueraders compliment the Christmas season, adding the traditional values of the real old time Christmas, especially in the countryside of Essequibo. During the Christmas season, beginning from around December 15, young boys from various villages would construct their costumes and head to the streets. Many of them would dress as Boom-Boom Sally- a costume that resembles a buxom woman with a protruding behind and one of the signature attractions of the band. Many villagers would use the opportunity to accompany the band as they travel the streets. Those performing in the contingent would be rewarded with tips for their antics based on their performance and Christmas rhymes. Most of the time, money is given to them but sometimes families offer the band food such as the Pepperpot. Essequibians are known for their hospitality. Confectionary is also given to children who are part of the band. THE JOLLY MOMENTS Every year, large contingents from villages such as Henrietta, Danielstown, Queenstown, Johanna Cecilia, Golden Fleece, Perseverance, Suddie, Aurora and Devonshire Castle would compete during the season. It is always a scene to behold, both young and old participate in creating costumes weeks before the Christmas season. As soon as school closes, many young people look forward to participating in the bands. Apart from the masquerades, families would have reunions during the festive season. Housewives would welcome the season with new curtains and Christmas themed decorations creating a festive atmosphere. The refrigerator would also be stocked with goodies. On Christmas morning, families and friends would exchange gifts then they would indulge in the popular Pepperpot and bread. During the day, a large pot of fried rice and seasoned chicken would be simmering on the fireside. Many persons would also be playing Christmas carols and chutney tunes during the day. Everyone’s door is open and at any time you can visit someone and get a piece of black cake or something else to eat. Many families would also drive around visiting family and friends fostering that spirit of love and togetherness. Christmas in the country is nothing short of fun-filled.

A masquerade band performing during the Christmas season in Essequibo

XII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Bottle it up this Christmas!

Some of the decorative bottles created by Sonia

By Vanessa Braithwaite THERE is no Christmas like a Guyanese Christmas. This adage is usually referred

to the hustle and bustle Guyanese take into making their Christmas the ideal one, even if it means doing the same thing all year round. Most of the fuss and fight is placed in home décor and food. A

Guyanese home celebrating Christmas must have new curtains, new ornaments, new floral and all the additives. To add season to salt, Guyanese décor must be colour themed; the toilet set should be matching the bedroom blind. These detailed preparations are what makes Guyanese Christmas uncompetitive, not only in the Caribbean but around the world. Giving home décor a local flair and making it affordable enough to suit the pockets of everyone, is Linden designer Sonia Sanchara. Sanchara has embarked on a project that is putting a touch of finesse into the living rooms or any other room of choice of her clients with her homemade decorated table bottles and other unique ornaments. These are made from recycled wine and champagne bottles that are transformed into beautiful ornaments that would have any person running wild. Her neutral choice of colours allows them to fit in with the already purchased curtains and florals. In fact, these classy table bottles revolutionise floral decorations and bring that exquisite and elegant touch

to one’s home. Sanchara related that she started the bottle designs last year as a trial and error after realising she has this talent in her hands. She gained a few clients at first but with practice throughout the year, she perfected her skills and came bang on with her designs this Christmas, thus gaining an overwhelming number of clients. It may be very surprising to know that most of the materials used to decorate the bottles are sourced right in her home. She spray paints the bottles then designs them with marbles, decorative stones, ribbons, beaded chains, flowers, sticks, Christmas balls and the seed of our National Flower. She said she feels happy bringing a touch of class to the homes of her clients this holiday and more so doing it for those on a limited budget.

◄◄◄ From page II

He, however, admitted that he as a local, he prefers a traditional Guyanese Christmas than to spend it anywhere else. Having spent a few years abroad, he is relieved to be home because he believes that without black cake, ginger beer and Pepperpot, it isn’t a Guyanese Christmas. NOT A REGULAR CHRISTMAS For Massiah, however, like many other folks, they are not really feeling the Christmas spirit just yet. Others gathered in a group with him, added that maybe with some money in hand that feeling might change because people are just waiting to acquire cash to ‘fix up their house’ and make Christmas merry for their families. Massiah explained that in Albouystown, Christmas is all about the children which the community has a large number of. He related that unlike other villages, the private sector does not visit during Christmas to make a donation of toys to the children and that is indeed sad. Massiah noted that it would be nice this year if that can happen at least for the children because as is, things do not look too

promising given the economic situation in their homes. The men told this newspaper that during this season only the Dharm Shala really brings joy to the children of the community by way of a Christmas party, in which they go all out to spread joy in the village by gifting children with toys, and a sumptuous meal accompanied by beverages. Being one of the biggest ghettos in the city, Joe said it would be nice to see more private sector contributions because that community has a lot of children, and they should at least have something to look forward to this time of the year. “These days no one comes around here and it is like we have been forgotten and that’s just not right, at least make it merry for the children,” he said. For the Albouystown residents, Christmas in the ghetto is all about caring, sharing and whatever they have counts, because “everyone has to eat.” This year, they will make it happen somehow because it is that time of the year when even the poor have something to share.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Good tidings, great joy Rotaract pays it forward

By Vishani Ragobeer AT Christmas time, much thought is given to persons who might need that extra cheer and the Rotaract Club of Georgetown- Central has made it their duty each year to spread some cheer. According to the Assistant Director of Community Service, Laurel Dundas, “Rotaract, in general, is focused on community service and personal development.” But specifically during the merry season, President of the Club, Chricell Whitney highlighted: “We try to spread out and spread as much cheer as possible at Christmas time.” She related that during this time, the club usually visits orphanages or elderly homes because the members believe that these persons would need the extra cheer. Whether it was at the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre or the Bright Horizon Family Home in Kuru Kururu, the club and its members would ensure that the gifts are ready, the carolers are ready to sing and their cheer is effusive. What they also do, according to the President, is actually research to find out what places have a great need or are less served and they go there to leave their mark! “Doing research this year and trying to find out where the need is the most, we found an article written and it sparked an interest on Plastic City,” Whitney said. Focusing on achieving its mandate to serve the community, Dundas explained that the Christmas project this year, called “Deck the Halls”, reached out to the children in Plastic City. Plastic City is a little squatter settlement off the Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara foreshore and Dundas related that members of the group actually walked around the entire community (twice!) so that they could ascertain what service would be most impactful and how many children should be catered for. As such, the club was able to cater for 150 children of all ages and fete them on December 22 with games and a gift-giving exercise. The aim was also to give clothing

The Rotaractors at the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre at a previous outreach

to families, all in an effort to spread Christmas cheer and provide some relief. “We chose Plastic City because usually, the clubs would concentrate on Georgetown because it is very accessible,” Dundas explained too. Additionally, she noted: “We thought it would be a very meaningful project at the time because Christmas is usually a time especially for the children.” But as an NGO, the support of any such venture depends largely on the support received, the President explained. “Donations were a bit slow in the beginning owing to few challenges faced with establishing partnerships when the project was launched but those were surmounted,” Whitney said. And the group was able to pull off a massive project this year once more!

XIII

XIV

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Christmas and mental health TO ALL those celebrating Christmas, I wish you the very best that the day has to offer. To those who aren’t, I hope you are using the day to relax and spend time with your loved ones anyway. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day have always been my favourite days of the year, for different reasons throughout my life. Of course, when I was a child, it was for all the presents and now it’s spending time with family, Christmas decorations and the amazing food. For the lucky ones, Christmas brings

a much-needed break, family traditions, presents, the movie ‘home alone’- basically every year unites generations and creates a lifetime of memories. This typically creates better moods all around I love Christmas because it encourages generosity, gratitude, kindness and forgiveness. You do not have to conduct scientific studies to come to the conclusion that giving and receiving gifts come with an emotional high. Forget receiving for a second, the selfless act of giving strongly correlates with

happiness and has uncontrollable benefits. We all know that feeling of giving someone special a gift that we know they will love. I believe that money cannot buy happiness unless you spend it on other people. Kindness and giving are contagious. When we give, we aren’t only giving to the immediate recipient but we are creating a ripple effect of kindness and generosity that may reach even hundreds of other people which we have not yet met. Be a part of that chain! I am certain that I smile and laugh more at Christmas than any other time of the year. This is great as my research shows that a good belly laugh lowers blood pressure and stress while it increases mood and general immune system functioning. The season encourages socialisation. We actually see most of our friends and family face to face rather than on a screen. This type of communication drastically improves our mental health and physical well- being. The season is also a baby booming one – my research shows that contraception sales double in December. Slightly inappropriate I know but completely true. However, what I think about the most now is that mental health does not take a vacation for the holidays. We all experience the added stress that the holiday brings - financial stress, the constant socialising and the excessive intake of food and alcohol. It takes a toll on everyone - whether or not they have a mental illness. If you feel this way, I want you to know that you’re not alone and I hope this piece can provide some sort of relief and maybe even joy. Also, a friendly tip, if money is tight you don’t have to get someone an actual present. Offer to cook for them, babysit, help them with a job or work assignment. Believe me, they will probably appreciate that even more. If you are still worried about how you’re going to get through the day and the remainder of the season, here are some simple tips for keeping your Mental Health good and stable. Practise moderation is probably the most important piece of advice. Don’t overindulge in alcohol or food, no matter how tempting. Keep exercising and sleeping well for the positive endorphins they bring. Decide which events and activities are the most significant as to not exert yourself- you come first. I also think a somewhat pessimistic (but important) piece of advice is to have realistic expectations of the holidays. We all get overly excited and anticipate the best. However, this can lead to disappointment we don’t need. Understand that the same stress you feel, others are feeling that and more. It’s okay for things to go wrong here and there. Although Thanksgiving is the holiday for gratitude, we can still see Christmas as a day or whole period to count our blessings. I do believe that we all want to feel happy, loved and at peace and what better time to push for that than now, when the feelings of joy and appreciation are everywhere we look – the decorations, the joyful words and songs streaming through our radios and television? Whether we officially celebrate it or not, let’s try our best to remain positive and hopeful. Thank you for reading. Please email any topics you want discussed to caitlinvieira@gmail.com

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XV

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

The 10 Best Books I Read in 2018

IS THERE any Christmas gift that is as good as a book? Books entertain and books educate. Books make us laugh and make us cry and make us learn. Books teach us about the world and about people. Books take us to faraway places. Books whisper secrets of the past to us, and books help to predict the future. Books show us who we are, and books show us who we can be. Truly, there is no gift as quite as good as a book. For this reason, in this final ‘best of 2018’ list, I have compiled the 10 best works of literature I have read this year. As always, an appearance on this list does not mean the book was published in 2018. It just means that I encountered and read the work in 2018. In this way, you, the reader, are introduced to works that are current and contemporary, while also being introduced to past works that deserve more, or continued, recognition. Here, in random order, are the 10 best books I read this past year. 1) “Blasted” by Sarah Kane – I actually got this book as a present and it is truly one of the most remarkable plays I have ever read. “Blasted” introduced me to Sarah Kane who works within a realm of theatre called In-Yer-Face Theatre (also new to me). The play exhibits tenets of both In-Yer-Face Theatre and Kane’s characteristics as a playwright in its stark presentation of a hotel room in the middle of what appears

to be a war zone. Within the hotel room, characters engage in smaller, and, perhaps, more meaningful, wars with each other. Violence, rape, cannibalism and many other gruesome aspects of the human condition find their way into the play, but that should definitely not prevent it from being viewed as the impeccable work of literature that it is. 2) “Ponti” by Sharlene Teo – Teo’s novel juggles the growth of characters, Szu and Circe, with the aging and fall of the former actress, Amisa Tan. Hot with angst and the ripe heat of Singapore, Teo’s work explores girlhood, womanhood and the transition from one to the other. The failure of the artist, South Asian folklore and the relationships between women are all among the complex themes that are tackled in the work. After reading “Ponti” one comes away feeling as if they have just read a good story, sure, but it also feels like one has been a part of an experience, dreamlike and dark, lasting all the way from page one to the very end of the text. “Ponti” is an example of both beautiful and beguiling writing. 3) “Skin Folk” by Nalo Hopkinson – This short story collection is what every Caribbean millennial has always wanted for the region’s folklore. We were the last group to grow up on night-time gatherings and stories told in the moonlight, and, therefore, Hopkinson’s sometimes scary, sometimes funny, always cool, stories – with their updated iterations of traditional Caribbean nuances and figures (such as the ole higue and Anansi) is something I enjoyed very much. The collection has all the freshness and vitality of the 21st Century, even as the rippling undercurrents of the past linger in each tale. 4) “Ubu and the Truth Commission” by Jane Taylor – The ‘Truth and Reconciliation Commission’ was something that emerged in post-Apartheid South Africa that allowed victims and perpetrators of violence and other human rights violations to speak about their experiences. It is a concept that fascinated me, particularly with regards to its application to a country like Guyana that has its own history of violence that is yet to be dealt with. However, would a Truth Commission be applicable to our society? This play uses real testimonials as well as puppetry and animation to offer peculiar, interesting, and devastating insights into such a Commission, while also offering valid commentary that almost all postcolonial societies the world over will find applicable to their own environments. Turn to page XXXI ►►►

XVI

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Keeping the Environment in Mind this Christmas FOR many of us, the holiday season is a time that is anticipated with both joy and anxiety. While we love the celebrations and family traditions and cherish the memories of holidays gone by, preparing for the Christmas season can be quite hectic. Here are some tips that can be helpful in getting ready for an enjoyable, meaningful holiday season in an environmentally friendly way. 1. SET MANAGEABLE EXPECTATIONS Spend some time setting realistic and manageable expectations for your holiday season. Understand that you can’t do everything! Be realistic about what you can do. Make a

priority list of your most important events and activities for you and your family and materials needed for these events. Organise your time. Keep in mind that it’s the holiday “season” (not “day”) and spread out your activities to lessen stress and increase enjoyment. 2. FOCUS ON CONNECTING WITH NATURE Christmas is a time for giving and a time for family. The season then presents a great opportunity to start a family tradition of giving back to the earth and instilling the values of sustainable living to your children, friends and community. Activities such as a family nature hike on Christmas Day will be remembered and valued. The family can also take part in a nature restoration activity throughout the season - planting a tree or enhancing an area of the community helps to recognise nature as a source of our well-being. The family can also engage in bird-watching each year. Try to identify and count every bird seen, and make a note of it in your journal. At the end of the hike, list the species seen and the number of birds per species to appreciate the presence and value of our feathered friends. Make this an annual activity and compare the results from former years to identify birding trends such as local bird population and migration habits. This is a great family activity because even the youngest eyes are just as good at spotting the birds and contributing to the event. 3. MAKE HOMEMADE CARDS Store-bought Christmas cards are rich, elegant and expensive. However, they also consume a huge amount of natural resources for a one-time item. Homemade cards may not be as professional, but they are more personal and tend to be more appreciated. Making the cards is also a fun activity for the family. Pictures from calendars, used paper, flowers etc., are a good place to start. Children’s’ artwork is another good source for Christmas card pictures. Even the scribbles of the wee-ones are interesting, fun and especially appropriate for the season. Cut out sections of the artwork which look best, and fit the required size. 4. GIFTS AND DECORATIONS Choose decorations which can be reused, rather than flimsy ones which will only be used once and then thrown away. Donate decorations that you no longer need to local schools, churches, town offices or non-profit organisations. Instead of buying more plastic, non-biodegradable decorations this year, make decorations using materials you would have otherwise thrown away. With just a little thought, you can come up with multiple ways to create pretty decorations that are eco-friendly. When choosing gifts, consider what persons will really need. Try to find gifts that were made locally. For children, battery-free toys would be perfect. Also, try to minimise wrapping, in fact, old newspapers, comic books, calendars and even cloth can be used to wrap gifts. Turn to page XXXII ►►►

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XVII

Reflecting on Christmas SO this is Christmas. By now, it is impossible for anyone to steer completely clear of the Christmas festivities that have engulfed the country. This year, more than ever, I’ve reflected upon what Christmas means to me and how I’ve always celebrated it. I can vividly remember that the day school closed for the Christmas holidays, that very Friday night I would begin my Christmas movie marathon. The hardest decision back then was, “Which movie should I start with- Home Alone or The Grinch who stole Christmas?” Stocking up with the goodies for Christmas was something I’d look forward to all month. I mean, at what other time of the year could you buy endless amounts of Danish Butter cookies, boxes of chocolates (I loved Garato) and all the walnuts imaginable- without feeling guilty? The Christmas cleanup was something I did not look forward to though. Putting up the decorations, on the other hand, I didn’t mind. As it drew nearer to Christmas Day, it was

a tradition for me to ‘break’ the holiday in the streets of Georgetown-you know, the extreme late night shopping on Christmas Eve? Then on Christmas Day I’d wake up to Pepperpot and plait bread, which was later joined by some kind of fancy rice, with some kind of fancy chicken and other fancy sides. I was never overly fond of black cake, but a mean rainbow cake I didn’t mind. And these are all things that make up that uniquely traditional Guyanese Christmas. But I see things differently now. There is so much hype and buildup for a single day that goes by so quickly. After those 24 hours, it’s mostly back to basics again-unless of course Boxing Day is your Christmas 2.0 or if you’ve got lots of planning for the New Year. This Christmas season, I asked persons around my age about how they intended on spending the holiday. I was actually very surprised that all but one of the persons I spoke to were going to be very traditional in their Christmas celebrations. Waking up to open presents, going to church, spending part

of their day cooking the Christmas specials and enjoying the rest of the day with their family and friends were all recurring answers. At least for them, their traditions have been maintained. What I have managed to retain is that magic that merry season has always had; that magic that makes you want to do something good or noble or helpful. As much as I am scared of needles, I would consider giving blood. I wouldn’t mind visiting children or some elderly folk and just spending time with them. And while I’m going to shop for new clothes to wear in the New Year (because that’s apparently a thing that people do), I’d much rather give clothes to persons who have more need for them. For me though, many of those things that attracted me in my younger days just aren’t as attractive anymore. What’s the use of all the confectionery? And why all the shopping ? I don’t have the answers to these questions as yet. But what I do know, however, is that this magical spirit I feel is the real reason for

the season. It’s nice to get nice things for ourselves and our homes, but getting things to people who need it? What could really compare to that feeling? And this is not me lamenting about the so-called commercialisation of the holiday. I understand that people choose to treat themselves or do a little extra during this time and rightly so because you’ve worked all year. It’s just for me personally, I’d much rather direct my efforts to things that mean more to me or that would make me content. I doubt I can write off this feeling as just ‘part of growing up’ because I still have the mind of a five-year-old sometimes, but I’d like to believe that my dissonance with the festivities is owed to me believing that some things are more important than others. So this Christmas, I’m going to be doing things that make me happy and not doing things just for the sake of doing them or maintaining my traditions. And I’d imagine that should be something for all of us- doing whatever makes us happy.

Helping People to unlock greatness by stamping out stigmas Naiome Bacchus EVERY day people are discriminated against, marginalised, bullied and suppressed by the mere words which are uttered by people who share and survive on the same oxygen, share the same space and reside in the same society. Those persons, who are suffocated by the discriminatory act of others, are however not alone in their battle against the injustice. Young Naiome Bacchus is one of the many persons who are working to eradicate the existing scourge. As a young lady in the modern society, she believes in using her platform to override meaningless traditions, norms, stigmas, and fears of countless barriers that hinder people from unlocking their greatness. Being a part of the Rights of the Child Commission as senior youth ambassador created new dimensions for her, dimensions which help her to address issues from the foundation- children’s rights. Her attachment to the Commission has strengthened her determination to pursue and tackle social issues, especially those which affect children. Apart from youth empowerment, women empowerment particularly rests on her mind. No, she isn’t a feminist, as both genders are equally vital to balance the scale.

“My aspirations are simple but fulfilling my true purpose in Christ is the one in which all others surround. I want to see a free and fair society with no prejudice…I want to establish a flourishing career in business management and marketing. Someday too, a foundation for children in need because the humane side when added and success comes, should never die but only shine brighter and genuinely,” said Bacchus. Working with fellow young people allowed her to peek into their world and this made her realise that every individual is unique. They must, however, realise that uniqueness on their own, embrace it and discover themselves before allowing anyone’s negative opinion to “dirty their minds.” She believes that when you have established your beliefs and set your priorities there is a lesser chance of you being misguided. “To those, who are lost, you are not alone and it is within your power to decide differently. Youth need to take up the mantle and run with it to disregard issues such as racism, only when we are empowered and working together we achieve more,” said young Bacchus, adding that your situations and barriers do not define where you can go. Be humble in pursuit of your goals and help someone along the way.

Together persons can recreate their healthy cycle of life and grasp towards its true meaning, like Michael Scott said, “you miss 100 per cent of the chances you don’t take.” So her advice was to do not be afraid to fail at times but persevere through it all. Shatter that glass ceiling! Bacchus credited her years at the St. Joseph High School for her success so far and the wisdom she has acquired. That “home” is where she nurtured and explored her talents and stretched her capabilities to the fullest. She is also a born dancer and so her school was represented well along with other colleagues. Her debating niche came alive whenever competitions arose, this is because of her love for the English Language. She has “dipped her finger” in every pot possible at St. Joseph High. Copping Miss St. Joseph High was not a new experience but it sure was the most impactful. Her motivation to accomplish everything comes in several forms, for most people, it is the great ones who have made their mark but for her, it is the people she makes contact with, the ones she witnessed first-hand, struggle to turn their cocoons into butterflies and the ones who have taught her important life lessons.

XVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XIX

XX

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XXI

AS WE APPROACH CHRISTMAS WE are on the threshold of Christmas, the oldest festival which has been celebrated in Guyana. It dates from the time of the first European settlement and the advent of plantation slavery. Christmas was the one day of the year that the slaves were allowed to celebrate and to publicly play their African drums and visit each other. These celebrations of the 17th and 18th centuries had little or no religion in them but nevertheless were always suffused with joyfulness, relaxation and goodwill. After Emancipation, the Christian element in the celebration became more prominent since most of the freedmen had become Christians, and had established churches throughout the coast. The Planter Class had generally become Victorian-style Christians as is evidenced by the St George’s Cathedral. In the post Emancipation period when the country began to be peopled with indentured immigrants from Madeira, who were Portuguese Catholics, Africans from the Caribbean islands, Chinese and East Indians who were Hindus and Muslims, they all became enveloped in the celebration and each group gradually began to make its peculiar contribution to the Christmas festival. By the beginning of the 20th century, Christmas had evolved to the form we know it today. It became a peculiarly Guyanese festival which synthesised the secular and religious and the entire population of Guyana, no matter whatever their racial or religious or cultural or class background may be, they all became ardent Christmas celebrants. In the high days of Christmas which started from about the 1920s, nervous energy began to vibrate through the population from November when serious preparations began to be made for the festival. The commercial houses imported large quantities of Christmas goods which included various types of exotic foods such as Dutch cheeses, as well as various meats, especially hams and turkeys. Toys of every kind of ingenuity were found, as well as the staples like snakes and ladders, monopoly and Chinese checkers. Colourful Christmas cards were

everywhere, some of which were genuine works of art and which many older folk have kept in albums. All shops and homes were decorated with fairy lights and Christmas trees and snow and snowmen, not to forget the ubiquitous Father Christmas. The decorations were meant to create a fantasy; the few critics of today who criticise the decorations as not being “tropical” enough, don’t realise that the decorations were meant to awaken a fantasy, a dream. Every family baked cakes, especially black cakes which needed to be prepared weeks before. The middle classes used imported Dover stoves which always had a chimney above the roof to let out smoke while ordinary folk used box ovens which were zinc boxes with a chamber for wood and these were usually in the open spaces to do their baking. Most of the baking was done on 23rd and 24th of December and on Christmas Eve, Georgetown and the villages of the countryside were pervaded with the pleasant odour of baking cake. As an essential part of the Christmas fare, people made jamoon wine, rice wine, ginger beer and sorrel which drinks were an expected offering to visitors. Christmas also had many sounds, among these being the masquerade bands with their special drum-beat. These masquerade bands performed throughout Christmas week and were followed by hundreds of people of all ages who danced or “flounced” behind them. Christmas carols, later spiced with secular songs like Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, were heard everywhere, in homes, on the streets, in the public transport and on the radio. The Christmas Eve church services were well attended and most churches were decorated with cribs showing the manger as well as other colourful decorations. The Christmas week was a time when all houses were thoroughly cleaned, from the humblest huts to the large houses of the rich. Walls were repainted or sometimes repapered with artistic wallpapers. All furniture was repaired or renewed and were given new coats of varnish or French polish and the smells

of varnish and French polish were among the ubiquitous smells of Christmas week. New curtains and window and door blinds were hung and the surroundings of the house were cleaned. The happenings of the Christmas Season were a great catharsis since it cleared

the mind and shed the burdens of the past and brought about a renewal which prepared everyone to enter the New Year with morale, optimism and a new determination to overcome all problems. It also reminded of a number of lessons which would allow one to live positively and happily through the New Year, once one adheres to them. Among

the most important were first, one’s belief in God would have been strengthened, secondly, the effectiveness of the message of goodwill and friendliness to all and lastly, the joy which comes from helping the poor, the underprivileged and the disabled. Though Christmas of recent years has lost some its glamour and its very strong outward celebra-

tory manifestations, it has unmistakably maintained its essence: It still remains a time of joy, of feasting, of colourful decorations, of goodwill to all and of national cohesion, of remembering the poor and differently abled and above all, as a catharsis preparing people to meet the New Year with strength, morale and success.

XXII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Christmas toothache WEDNESDAY, December 27, 2006, was the first working day after the Christmas holidays. I was one of the five dentists

who worked at the National Dental Centre which was located at the corner of Thomas and Quamina Streets. When I drove

into the compound that morning to work, my vehicle was immediately surrounded by what seemed to be over 100 persons. I

soon realised that I was the only dentist who had turned up to work on that day. I will never forget this day since I never did

so many extractions on the same occasion during my entire career which exceeds three decades. Studies show that during the last week of the year there is a four hundred per cent increase in new dental cavities. In addition, more than half of the existing caries deteriorate to the extent whereby painful symptoms began to manifest. Why is it that this exacerbation of

each citizen consumes over 100 pounds of sugar a year. As in these countries, those who sell soft drinks, sugar and sweets in Guyana, experience between three and five-fold increase in sales during the Christmas season. For some years research has been progressing successfully in the quest to substitute sugar with artificial sweetener. Sorbitol,

dental disease generally takes place at Christmas time? The reason is simply because of the higher sucrose (sugar) ingestion together with the lapse in maintaining oral hygiene concomitant to the disruption in routine personal activities, which occur during the festive season. A famous dentist once remarked that “people have always liked a sweet tooth, but sweet never liked the tooth.” Cakes, candies, jellies, chocolates and dried fruits are among the most cariogenic (caries forming) foods in existence and they are consumed indiscriminately at this time of the year. The bacteria of dental plaque ( a thin gelatinous layer on the enamel) ferment these substances quite readily to produce the acid that erodes the tooth’s enamel causing caries. In Australia, Cuba, England and the United States,

mannitol and saccharin are being produced in increasing quantities. These ascribe the sweet taste like natural sugar. But when one considers that sugar is not necessary for good health, there is a clear appreciation for the value of avoiding it given its deleterious effect on the teeth and general well-being. A valuable starting point is for a person’s attitude to reflect an understanding of the mechanism of action of the disease process. Remember that a tooth cannot decay unless acid is involved and the bacteria can only produce the acid from sugar and to a less extent, starch. If you find it difficult to avoid the “sweets of the season,” then after eating them, rinse your mouth thoroughly with half a teaspoon of baking soda ( not baking powder) mixed in a cup (8 ounces) of water. Have a happy and cavity-free Season!

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

FILES E S A C T R COU

Convicted rapist freed by judge’s misdirection

XXIII

By George Barclay

Unsworn child allowed to corroborate sworn evidence

CONVICTED burglar & rapist Boodram Lall who in 1967 was found guilty on the unsworn evidence of a child that corroborated sworn testimony of the mother, appealed and was freed by the Guyana Court of Appeal. That court constituted by Chancellor Kenneth Stoby and Justices of Appeal P. A. Cummings and Victor Crane, found that the trial judge had erroneously told the jury at the trial that the child’s unsworn testimony was capable of corroborating the mother’s evidence. As a result, the appeal was allowed and the convictions and sentences were quashed. The facts of the case disclosed that the appellant was indicted on two counts, firstly, for ‘burglary with intent to commit rape’ on `K’. , the mother of `K.R.’ , a nine year old girl. The trial judge questioned the child and recorded the opinion that she was of sufficient competent understanding to give evidence but he did not permit her to be sworn as he did not think she understood the nature of an oath and, as a result she gave unsworn evidence. Her testimony, if admissible and if believed, afforded strong corroboration of her mother’s evidence. The jury were directed that the rule of practice was to look for corroboration of the mother’s evidence. Quite properly, he told them that they could convict on the uncorroborated evidenced of the mother but he also told them, over and over again, that ` K. R.’s’ unsworn evidence corroborated the mother’s testimony. That court held (i) the unsworn evidence of a child could not be used to corroborate the sworn testimony of another person; (ii) the directions were of such a nature that it was impossible to say whether the jury relied for their verdict of “Guilty” on the uncorroborated evidence of the mother alone coupled with the warning that they were entitled to do, or, on the evidence of the child as corroborative of the mother’s testimony. That court which allowed the appeal – quashing the convictions and sentences – had made reference to nine cases. Queen’s Counsel Mr. J. O. F. Haynes had represented the appellant while Mr. N.A. Graham, Senior Crown Counsel appeared for the respondent. Delivering the judgment of the Court, Chancellor Stoby said that the Jury trial took place in April,1967 at the Demerara Assizes. After a trial which lasted two days the accused was convicted on both counts and sentenced to concurrent terms of imprisonment of seven years. According to him, at the trial, a nine-year-old-girl, K.R. was called by the Crown, as a witness. The judge questioned the child and at the conclusion of the questioning, he recorded that in his opinion she was of sufficient competent understanding to give evidence. The judge did not permit her to be sworn as he did not think she understood the nature of the oath, and in the result she gave unsworn evidence. Her evidence if admissible, and if believed, afforded strong corroboration of her mother’s evidence. The main ground of appeal, said the Chancellor, is whether the trial judge was correct in directing the jury that the unsworn evidence of a child could corroborate sworn evidence. The Chancellor explained, “The manner in which the law developed to permit the unsworn testimony of witnesses is not without interest. In early times all evidence had to be given on oath and on the Gospel; no one but a Christian could testify. Turn to page XXXII ►►►

XXIV

Bringing joy to others

I WOKE up a few days ago with a terrible cold and body pain. That was the day I had planned to visit my hometown for the seniors’ party. It was raining heavily so it was easy to go back to bed which I did. After a few minutes, I got up and head to the shower because I made a promise to myself that no matter what I was going to celebrate with the seniors this year in Bartica. This was the 19th year and I have been contributing every year but had not attended in years. The chance to see my mom was another motivating factor. Teacher Jane Daniels travelled in the same boat from Parika and she expressed how proud she is of my achievements and reminded me of the big dreams that a young girl shared with her in high school. It is always great to remember school days. I absolutely enjoyed every second of the five hours at the party with people who saw me grow up or knew me before I

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion was born. I felt a bit sad because so many of them reminded me of my “gramma! who was alive the last time I attended the party. I danced with Mr Taylor the last time and he is no longer with us. Sister Dina Moore and I were reminiscing about my primary school days and when I visited her for channa and bara with lots of spicy sour. She died not long after that party. Pastor Rita was greeting her invited guests as I came into the building and she was surprised and happy to see me. That was the intention. She invited me to give remarks and although my throat was hoarse and hurting from the cold I was excited to address the seniors who were all dressed up and looking beautiful. Going from one table to other and hugging kissing and chatting about years ago was priceless. We chatted about arthritis pains, getting old, how great God is, precious moments in the past, grandkids, great grandkids, great, great grandkids and my career. Some of them could not believe that I have a grandson but it was fun because we could have traded stories. I was surprised at how many read the papers and listen to the radio because they were sharing things they read about my journey. I heard someone said, “You know I have to get my special personal hug” that came from my relative Linda. Every time we meet she tells me about an article she read or an interview she heard and this time it was the interview on 93.1 Real FM. She asked to tell Mr Maxwell that his morning programme is making a difference and very uplifting. My mom and her friends, especially, Cheryl also enjoy listening to Max early in the morning. Sister Cheryl was sharing with me how much she prays for me. “You don’t have to ever be afraid or worry about anything because you are a good person and doing great things for people. We are praying for you and God got your back,” she said. These words reminded me of the words my seniors at Love and Faith shared with me. I had not seen Mrs De Fraitas who was the community librarian in decades. She said when she reads about me in the media she remembers that young child that frequently visited the library. I have a special place in my heart for the seniors and will always contribute what I can. My friend,Eion Williams,and I joined the others in serving the drinks and meals on this special day. The meals were delicious but what I enjoyed the most were the homemade ice cream, black cake and ginger beer. I must congratulate Pastor Rita Brouet and team for hosting an event that made the seniors in our community feel loved and appreciated. Seniors have contributed so much to society but unfortunately little or nothing is done for them to enjoy their golden and platinum years. If we are blessed with long life we all we get there someday. Everyone left with food hampers and other gifts. Even people in the outlining areas benefited from the food hampers such as Rivers View, Fowlmouth, Ittabali, Sacaralla Bay, Dod Point, Potaro Road and others. I was elated to learn about the many companies and individuals chipping in for this meaningful event. Thank you to Scotia Bank Bartica, Lighthouse Assembly, Pastor Gomes, Ryan and Reauben, Dino`s Enterprise, the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Integrated Security Services and many others. This is the last Sunday before Christmas and it is a good time to think about how we can add joy to one person’s holiday season. Best wishes to everyone for the Christmas you desire as we continue to celebrate this journey we call life BEYOND THE RUNWAY. In the photos, I am with my mom in green and Mrs Defraitas

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018 ◄◄◄ From page VI

Scenes from this year’s activity (All photos courtesy of Omesh Balmacoon)

Last Christmas, the Guyana Premier also undertook a charity activity that comprised a Christmas social, toy drive and a medical and dental outreach at Belvedere Primary School. Balmacoon related that the medical team consisted of five doctors who performed medical and dental examinations of the children. They were also able to prescribe medication and provide the children with medical supplies. Guyana Premier and their sponsors also provided gifts for the children and the day’s events once again included lunch, snacks and a concert. Free cervical cancer screenings were also offered to the mothers who were there. For this year’s charity activities, Guyana Premier/Miss Earth Guyana (the brand’s current designation) partnered with Youths on the Rise Guyana (YORG) on a toy drive called Joy of Christmas. Balmacoon explained that YORG is made up of a group of young people from the West Coast and West Bank of Demerara who are focused on improving the lives of peoples on the Westside. The event was YORG’s first annual toy drive and the Guyana Premier/Miss Earth Guyana’s second annual charity drive. This year’s activity was aimed at underprivileged children between the ages of three months and 13 years, from an area at Vreed-en-Hoop called “the Jetty”. The first part of the activity was acquiring the toys. Balmacoon noted that YORG had representatives all across the Westside acting as hubs where people could drop off toys. Guyana Premier was also a hub. There were also sponsors who contributed. The toys were distributed this past December 16. The distribution took the form of a masquerade whereby representatives from the two bodies went around the Jetty with sacks of items, meeting with families and distributing toys and snacks. Giving back is very important to Guyana Premier. “I don’t like using the term ‘charity’,” Balmacoon related, “because I do believe that we all have a social responsibility to each other.” He explained that some of us are better off than some. “Especially during the Christmas season, and the August holidays, families are more in need than anybody else,” he said. “At Guyana Premier we believe in empowering youths and one way that we can empower youths is by ensuring that they get a good education.” Therefore, the brand undertakes activities that not only empower youths but also look out for underprivileged families, as well as ensuring that underprivileged children do not feel left out of Christmas activities. The Guyana Premier/Miss Earth Guyana has no intention of slowing down its community involvement efforts. “We started last year, we’re doing it this year and we’ll continue doing it as long as we’re around,” Balmacoon stated emphatically. The brand’s involvement with Miss Earth also fulfils another responsibility – one to the environment. Guyana’s delegate to the pageant, Xamiera Kippins participated in the Miss Earth Pageant held this past November in the Philippines. Kippins made an admirable showing, receiving a gold medal in the national costume segment and a silver medal in the talent segment. Community involvement is crucial. Balmacoon noted that, for any business or brand, it is really important to let the community know that it is there for them and not just for selfish reasons. This is accomplished through community involvement. “We have to fulfil a social responsibility [as] we are not here for ourselves, we are here for each other,” he stated plainly. “By at least uplifting one section of the community, or one section at a time of the community, we are in fact uplifting ourselves.” Doing so ensures that everybody wins at the end of the day, he added. “It’s not about being selfish, it’s about ensuring that others are uplifted.” These cumulative efforts can result in the entire country being uplifted he said.

XXV

XXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XXVII

XXVIII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Nothing beats the love of a grandmother –Take it from this young entrepreneur

Young entrepreneur Shanazz Embleton

By Telesha Ramnarine AT just 22 years old, Shanazz Embleton is the proud owner of ‘Enchanted Indian Wedding Décor’ – a business that she has registered since 2013. She would not dare to take all of the credit for herself, however, nor would she attribute the hard work and dedication that she’d put into making the business a success; she will only speak of the love and practical assistance that her grandparents rendered to her. Her grandmother, especially, Mrs. Camil Hassan (now deceased) worked hard as a seamstress to sew uniforms for the Guyana Police Force. Incidentally, her grandfather, Mr. Sheik Hassan (also deceased) was a tailor. Although Shanazz said she had never actually helped out in her grandparents’ business, she would always admire their work.

Shanazz is grateful for the kind assistance her grandmother gave her Turn to page XXX►►►

XXIX

XXX

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018 ◄◄◄ From page XXIX

Decoration of a hall by ‘Enchanted Indian Wedding Décor’

Born and raised at Mon Repos, on the East Coast Demerara, Shanazz attended the nursery and primary schools in that village. She enrolled at Apex Academy afterwards but dropped out of school in the third form. It was at this point that her grandmother gave her some money which she used to start up an internet café business. Because she hadn’t given up the idea of finishing school, Shanazz later enrolled at the Academy of Excellence and completed her secondary education there. In 2012, Shanazz landed her first job decorating an auditorium hall for the Texila American University graduation ceremony. Fortunately, a friend from Academy of Excellence who was a receptionist at the Princess Ramada Hotel lined her up for the job. Shanazz believes that watching her grandparents work fueled a desire in her to work with different kinds of fabrics; although not realising this immediately. She found that she started to enjoy her new kind of work and decided to pursue it. Her grandmother again stepped in and gave her money to invest in the business. “That was her investment in me; and that money got me all the way here,” Shanazz related during an interview recently with the Pepperpot Magazine. “My grandmother was my mentor and I wanted to be just like her. I couldn’t sew so I decided to go with décor. She was one of the greatest persons I saw while growing up. Nothing bothered her even though she went through her own struggles.” Shanazz said she would have loved to have her grandmother around today. “I was hoping she’d still be here because I can do so much for her. She’s still my mentor.” “If you have someone in your family who can give you inspiration and help you along, then follow in their footsteps. You can’t go back and change the beginning but you can start from where you are and change the ending. That’s actually my life quote. So you can determine how your life will be,” advised Shanazz. NEW LINE OF BUSINESS Shanazz works with a five-member team and designs as per the liking of her clients. “It’s fun. If I don’t have what you want, then I will try to create that,” she said. Her team supplies everything that is needed to decorate the venues. “I would have to do the backdrops, do the table settings; find the utensils, glasses, centrepieces and everything in line. We provide most of the stuff. We’ll take everything there and put it into place.” Shanazz said although the name of her business might give the impression that she decorates for Indian weddings only, this is far from the case. “We don’t do only Indian weddings; I just like the name.” Shanazz also rents chairs, tables, centrepieces, vases, tablecloths, table and chair covers, sashes, weddings chairs, and the like. By next January, she said she will be opening a new line of business where she will be bringing in wedding dresses from overseas for sale and rental. She also plans to bring all kinds of brand name make up. Shanazz has a showroom in Mon Repos where she is living. Eventually, Shanazz is hoping to be able to own a banquet hall that can host various events. “For the next five years, I do have a plan that I am working along with. My job was not easy when I started but I didn’t give up. I had to keep going,” she said.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

◄◄◄ From page XV

5) “Everyone Knows I am a Haunting” by Shivanee Ramlochan – This collection of poetry from Trinidad and Tobago’s Shivanee Ramlochan is a slim volume that seems to burst with the combined energy of everyone wronged in the history of the entire Caribbean. Its anger is sharp and cutting and smart, and its imagery is rich, vibrant and pulsing with the poet’s intelligence, confidence, and invocations to the spiritual. It is a collection applicable to the #MeToo movement and many other great fights that we, in this region, have known and experienced, but it is a work that does not limit its advocacy and awareness to the Caribbean only – despite its own Caribbean-ness. 6) “There There” by Tommy Orange – How many times have we read stories about Native Americans? How many times have we read stories about Native Americans written by Native Americans? The truthful answer is: not as often as we need to. Tommy Orange’s debut novel has that multiple-narrative-strands style that I like, and because of this we get a multitude of Native American voices (a great-aunt doubling as a grandmother, a recovering alcoholic, a woman fleeing an abusive husband, etc.) each one offering some perspective of what it means to be Native American today. Each voice brings pain, loss, and anger with it. But each voice also brings some love and some hope, and although that is not enough to prepare the reader for the sadness of the novel, it is enough to let us know how truly skilled Orange is at representing people in his work. 7) “Doubt” by John Patrick Shanley – So I finally read the play that the fantastic movie starring Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Viola Davis, and the late, great Phillip Seymour Hoffman was based on. Shanley’s play is quite short, but it packs an emotional punch that one never forgets – particularly when it comes to the Donald Miller character and his mother (played by Davis in the movie). The play tears at your mind as you fervently try to figure out the truth of the central conflict at hand, but, like Sister Aloysius, we, the readers, also come to the end riddled with doubt. 8) “We Mark Your Memory” edited by Maria del Pilar Kaladeen, David Dabydeen, Tina K. Ramnarine – This collection has fiction, poetry and non-fiction from various authors from all over the world (including Guyana’s Gaiutra Bahadur, who wrote “Coolie Woman: The Odyssey of Indenture” and Trinidad and Tobago’s Kevin Jared Hosein, the two-time winner of the Commonwealth Prize). It was conceived to mark the centenary of the abolition of Indentureship within the nations colonised by the British and features writing from writers descended from indentured immigrants. The book is important, of course, because of the anniversary it is meant to represent. However, it is also important because it draws on the contemporary works of writers whose ancestors were once not allowed to read or write within the British colonies. The effort of writing back, of giving histories to ancestors, names to places, and identities to the past and present is the collection’s true value. 9) “Champions of the Gayelle: You Can Lead a Horse to Water And Other Plays” by Winston V. Saunders, Dennis Scott, Godfrey Sealy – This collection of Caribbean plays was edited by Judy Stone and published as part of the Macmillan Caribbean Writers Series. It features work from three important playwrights: Winston V. Saunders (Bahamas), Dennis Scott (Jamaica), and Godfrey Sealy (Trinidad). I enjoyed this work because Caribbean plays are harder to find than both Caribbean prose and Caribbean poetry. Therefore, works such as this one which presents and preserves the region’s theatre through the publication of our stories, told in our voices, hold a very significant place in my heart. 10) “Children of Blood and Bone” by Tomi Adeyemi – Set in a world where magic is forbidden, a young girl is forced to set off on a perilous quest that sees the return of magic and the return of hope. Reminiscent of many of the staples of my childhood, such as the iconic “Avatar: the Last Airbender” TV show, this YA novel by Nigerian-American author, Adeyemi, has a lot to offer. The author has managed to create a world that is at once sublime, new, and thrilling, while also paying homage to, and incorporating many, African influences into her work. The style reminds me just a little of the “Black Panther” movie, and like the movie, “Children of Blood and Bone” offers people of colour the opportunity to finally read an astounding, exciting piece of fantasy literature, where they occupy all of the roles and not only just the supporting ones.

XXXI

XXXII

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018 ◄◄◄ From page XVI

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Make Your Own Popsicle Stick Snowman Material needed for the Popsicle Stick Snowman * 7 Jumbo craft sticks * White and Black paint (you may want to spray-paint the sticks beforehand) * Decorative ribbon about 5in long (for hat) * 2 Large wiggle eyes * 5 small rocks (about 1/4 inch diameter) or buttons. * Orange craft foam, felt, or construction paper * Black Marker (optional) * Magnetic Tape * Scissors * Hot glue and hot glue gun or white glue. Instructions: 1. Paint six craft sticks white. 2. Allow the paint to dry. 3. Paint one of the craft sticks entirely black. 4. Paint the top 2 inches of the six white sticks black (to form the hat) 5. Allow the paint to dry completely. 6 Add 1 inch piece of magnet tape to the back 7. Glue the six white craft sticks to the cardboard scrap as shown. 8. Glue the black craft stick down to create the brim of the hat, as shown. 9. Glue the wiggle eyes on to the snowman’s face. 10. Cut out a triangle of orange craft foam (the carrot nose) 11. Glue the carrot on to the snowman’s face 12. Wrap the ribbon around the brim of the hat and glue the ends in place on the back. 13. Glue each of the small stones or buttons to the snowman’s face in the shape of a smile. ◄◄◄ From page XXIII

Competency to testify depended upon acceptance of the witness’ belief in the Gospel . Non-Christians and children of tender years were deemed to be ignorant of the nature and obligations of an oath, they were not allowed to be sworn and so could not testify; Such was the state of the law until the celebrated case of Omychand v. Barker, (1744) 1 Atk 22 in which the depositions of Indian witnesses of the Gentoo religion taken by Order of Court, according to the local ceremonies on commissions in the East Indies were admitted and read in evidence after being objected to. In the report of this case at Page 29, LORD CHIEF JUSTICE LEE remarked that it was determined at the Old Bailey upon mature consideration, that a child should not be admitted to give evidence without oath; and LORD CHIEF BARON PARKER in the same case said that it was so ruled at Kingston Assizes before LORD RAYMOND, where, upon an indictment for rape, he refused the evidence of a child without oath . The old cases of R. v. Powell (1775) 1 Leach 110 and R. v. Braster, (1779) 1 Leach 199, both emphasize the fact that though there was no precise or fixed rule as to the time within which infants are excluded from giving evidence, the testimony of an infant was not receivable under any circumstance except under oath. After reviewing a number of cases, and perusing the directions of the trial judge, the Chancellor declared, “It is impossible for us to say which of these two alternative situations the jury accepted - whether they relied for their verdict of “Guilty” on the uncorroborated evidence alone coupled with the warning as they were entitled to do, or on the evidence of the child as corroborative of the mother’s. Indeed, the jury having been told that it would be dangerous for them to act on the uncorroborative evidence of `K.’ alone may very well, it is contemplated, have heeded the judge’s warning and convicted with the help of the evidence of the child which was repeatedly suggested to them as being capable of corroborating the mother’s. “It seems to us that the likelihood of a verdict of “Guilty” returned in such circumstances without the proviso (14) being explained to them is unsafe, and founded as it is on a non-direction which amounted to a misdirection in law ought to be set aside in the interests of justice. “The appeal is allowed and convictions and sentences quashed”. Justices of Appeal Cummings and Crane concurred.

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

XXXIII

XXXIV

STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Why take time off to wonder who will be your examiners, and how they will treat your responses? Why lose sleep over that? Examiners are often people who are sympathetic to students. They want to give marks to candidates. In many internal and external examinations, your examiners may be your very own school teachers who have good guidelines to award you marks that you have worked for. Keep on studying. Take care of your health! Be wise. Love you

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

English

THE PASSAGE Wilson Bentley received a gift on his 15th birthday that was to change his life – an old microscope his mother had once used in teaching. As birthday gifts go, it might not have seemed like much, but to this 1880’s Vermont farm boy it was special indeed. “When the other boys of my age were playing with popguns and sling-shots, I was absorbed in studying things under this microscope,” he later wrote. And nothing fascinated him more than snowflakes. It would become a passion that would last a lifetime, earn him the nickname “Snowflake Bentley,” and make him known around the world….

At first, though, Bentley did not own a camera. He Bright is the ring of words only had his eyes and his microscope, and no way to When the right man rings them, share his enjoyment of the Fair the fall of songs delicate hexagons other than When the singer sings them. to draw them. As soon as the ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON (1850snow started to fly (and if his 1894) Songs of Travel chores were done), he would collect some snow crystals on a board painted black. He’d reason for each comma inserted. (Look out spend hours inside his woodshed, where for solutions next week.) he had his microscope, picking up the most 1. Each man woman and child in the perfect ones on the end of a piece of straw group was asked to contribute. from a broom and transferring them to a 2. He spoke of a government “of the microscope slide. There he would flatten people by the people and for the people.” them with a bird feather. Then, holding 3. This parcel by the way arrived at noon his breath, he would observe the crystal did it not? and hurry to draw what he saw before it 4. The temperature was below freezing evaporated into thin air. It was a frustrating but he went out without a hat. business to try to capture all the details in 5. The stage lighting was brilliant and a drawing while simultaneously being in a the colours were vivid. race against time…. 6. The warm green earth exuded a fraHis father, being a serious, hardworking grance of spring. farmer, felt that looking through a micro7. “I doubt” he replied gravely “that scope was a waste of time….. That was there is sufficient evidence.” probably a feeling shared by the locals of 8. Mother may I have the check? Jericho, who nicknamed him “Snowflake” 9. Your grandparents Susan and Mark Bentley…. were married on April 24 1974 at four .…After much trial and error Bentley, on o’clock. January 15, 1885, at the age of 19, finally 10. “We should perhaps” Nancy suggestphotographed a snowflake! Many hours ed “wait shouldn’t we?” over the next 45 years were spent in his tiny darkroom beneath the stairs developing IMPROVING WRITING SKILLS negatives that he then carried, often with a Keep on with your writing practice lantern-light, to the brook for washing. In Whether or not you recognise this locaall that time, he never saw two snow crystals tion, study the picture well. Put on your cap that were exactly alike, although he realised of imagination and write about a happening that if he were to collect two crystals side- that you personally or vicariously experiby-side from the same cloud, there was a enced, and which could happen here. good chance that they might look the same. Check your production: (Adapted from Barbara Eaglesham’s a) Is its tale effective? “The Legacy of ‘Snowflake Bentley’”) b) Have you used whatever characters you desired? ABOUT THE PASSAGE c) Have you used effective naming and Eaglesham was writing in a magazine for descriptive terms? young science students in a December 2002 d) Does your lively dialogue have wellissue of Odyssey: Adventures in Science. placed quotation marks? Take notice how she tailored it to meet her e) Have you written in Standard English audience. mainly; and have you allowed some of the Things to Do lively dialogue to be dialect that sounds Discuss your thoughts on the passage Guyanese? with chosen study partners. f) Is the happening approximately 400 to a) How is Bentley’s gift different from 500 words long? the types of gift other boys his age were Remember that a story seems very real to receiving? the reader if the characters speak for themb) Bentley made discoveries and was selves; and a story with purposeful, lively happy to share his knowledge with others. dialogue (conversation) is usually easier and Consider these questions according to the more interesting to read than one without. text adaptation: Personal Note: How have you classed i) Was Bentley a trained researcher? your stories? Check them and come up with ii) Was his work beneficial to science? a true answer. Resolve to add more skills to iii) Nancy Knight in documenting snow- your battery to improve reader-interest. You flakes for the National Center for Atmo- still have time to strengthen your mastery. spheric Research in 1988 found two identi- Do take special care this Christmas season. cal snow crystals of the hollow column type. How do you think Bentley would have felt CHEW ON THIS THOUGHT if he had heard the news of her discovery? Resolve not to be poor: whatever you have, spend less. Poverty is a great enemy PUNCTUATION MARKS to human happiness; it certainly destroys The Comma liberty; and makes some virtues impracThe following sentences have many uses ticable and others extremely difficult. of the comma that you have studied. Supply SAMUEL JOHNSON (1709-1784) Johncommas where they are needed. Give the sonian Miscellanies p.157, 7 Dec. 1782

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018

Garlic Pork

INGREDIENTS 1 air tight jar for marination 3 ½ lbs pork shoulder 4 cups white vinegar 4 tsp salt wiri wiri and/or scoth bonnet peppers fine leaf thyme ½ lb garlic ( approx 3 large heads ) Method Chop and wash the pork 1. Cut into small pieces and wash the pork with vinegar and water. 2. Pat the pork dry with some paper towel. 3. In a bowl add some vinegar and rinse the pieces of pork using a thong 4. Do not touch the pork again with your hands as this may cause contamination. 5. After rinsing, set the pork aside Prepare the seasonings Blend all the seasonings together MIXING 1. Add the salt to the pork and the blended seasoning 2. Mix thoroughly with a spoon 3. Add to your airtight jar 4. Leave for 4 days to marinate. FRYING After the 4 days of marination, strain vinegar from pork add pork to a frying pan, do not add any oil ( this should be fried in its own fat) Fry until fully cooked and golden brown. Enjoy

XXXV

XXXVI

Chronicle Pepperpot December 23, 2018