Guyana Chronicle E-Paper PepperPot 12-29-2019

Sunday, December 29, 2019

Ringing in the

New Year

As we steadily approach 2020, we wish you a Happy New Year, from the Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot team! (Mural by Barry Braithwaite)

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

II

The GOOD LIFE is eluding minibus passengers

The Stabroek Minibus Park is regarded as one of the worst in the world, where operators even engage in fist and weapon fights with each other (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

By Francis Quamina Farrier

O

VER 10,000 Guyanese have lost their lives on the roads of Guyana since Independence in 1966. This figure is in a country with less than a million in population and minibuses have made a significant contribution to that staggering total. Those killed include a minister of government, a police commissioner, two teenage daughters of a

prime minister, two boxing champions, a chief librarian and a foreign diplomat. Yet the MADNESS on Guyana’s roads continues unchecked. Early this year, a vehicle in which the current Police Commissioner Leslie James was a passenger, was struck by another vehicle. Fortunately, the Commissioner was not injured. Will the lawlessness on Guyana’s roads continue in 2020 and beyond? Will you be killed in a traffic crash? Will I be

killed? On four occasions during this year, I was almost run over while using a pedestrian crossing in the city of Georgetown. I have witnessed on many occasions mini buses actually driving on pavements to over-take other vehicles. The madness goes on unchecked. Who do citizens turn to for “The Good Life” on our roads? It will be recalled that even a former Police Traffic Chief drove his vehicle while drunk and crashed into three parked

vehicles. It would also be recalled the incident in which an elderly passenger in a minibus was so roughed-up by the conductor that the poor man shortly after, collapsed and died. The madness on our roads and hooligan type behaviour of many minibus drivers and conductors which is causing lives, has even caused President David Granger to make a public statement a few weeks ago. But who will bell the cat? Rather, who will do something to bring this madness on Guyana’s roads to a permanent end? Where does the buck stop? When I wrote an article about road hogs and road fatalities in April 2019, the number of Traffic Fatalities at that time was 52. At the time of writing this article, that figure rose to 128. That includes the precious lives of nine children. Quite a number of those killed were due to the reckless minibus operations. “I am fed-up and totally devastated by the laissez-faire disposition of commuters as they sit in speeding minibuses, most of them riddled with lewd obscene noises they call music while refusing to voice their concerns,” stated the retired boxing champion Mike Benjamin in a Facebook post recently. “My experience has been anything but delectable as these hooligans that call themselves drivers gamble with their lives and those with many innocent commuters,” Mike Benjamin wrote. Minibus operators, especially in Georgetown, are so out of control that they actually become engaged in fistfights with each other, and a few occasions with law officers. Another Facebook contributor recommended that commuters use their cell phones and take photographs of offending minibuses and post them on Facebook. So while these minibus operators behave as though they are above the law and can do whatever they want to their paying passengers, a growing number of commuters have declared WAR on the lawlessness. This confounded nonsense must stop. People’s LIVES Matter. The law enforcers must do their job for which they receive a salary from taxpayer contributions.

This cross is at the side of a road in Georgetown where a minibus crash resulted in the loss of many lives (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier)

Former Police Commissioner David Ramnarine once called on minibus passengers not to allow themselves to be terrorised by the minibus operators. In translation, the Commissioner was saying that some minibus operators are terrorists. The sad aspect of that is that those minibus terrorists are unrepentant. It seems that all that matters to them is the money from the ‘kidnapping’ of another passenger and potential road fatality victim. While for decades many minibus passengers have sat like zombies in those minibuses and accepted the terrorist actions of the operators, that is now changing slowly. More passengers are speaking up. The terrorists behind the wheel will find it more and more difficult to get away with their reckless deadly operations. As the serious end to this national problem, my understanding is that some religious leaders are considering the holding of an Interfaith Service at the Stabroek Market Square in Georgetown during Road Safety Week 2020, in commemoration to the more than 10,000 road fatality victims since Guyana became Independent and pray for the madness on our roads to come to an end. Religious leaders have held funeral services for so many road fatality victims. Will they come together and let their voices be heard in condemnation of this road rage madness? They have the power and responsibility to speak up and help make a difference. More than ever, they need to

use their power to bring sanity on the roads of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and end the traffic terrorism. There are those Road Safety Councils who are doing a fairly good job in the face of the continuing slaughter on our roads, helping to keep the death figures from being even higher. But in all the madness and heartaches, there are some great minibus operators. The Bell Twin Brothers, for example, are among the very best in the country. There was that Route 42 minibus driver who took three very brief phone calls while on a journey from Georgetown to Timehri with every call, he pulled over and stopped, apologised to the passengers, and kept the call no longer than30seconds. He apologised to the passengers again and then moved on. As we come to the end of the second decade of the 21st century, let us as a Nation vow to be more orderly on our roads. Let us in 2020 and beyond make our roads much safer. It is apt for me to repeat that I have been travelling in minibuses over the years, all over Guyana and the CARICOM countries including the Cayman Islands, as well as in Ghana. So let us keep death off our roads. And let us enjoy the promised Good Life which eludes us as passengers in mini buses. Happy New Year. HAPPY new decade. Happy Good Life. Keep death off the road.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

III

US-based ‘Creative Titans’ looking for Guyanese talent To go after creation of ‘Performing Rights Organisation’ here

By Telesha Ramnarine

R

ON André Elvis Telford is a Guyanese-American music executive who left Guyana when he was just four years old, but the 36-year-old has not forsaken the land of his birth and would travel here annually, as many as three times per year! His company, Creative Titans, is based in the United States of America, and its goal is to find talent from all across the world, including Guyana, and hone such talent to the point that the individual may be able to secure a record or publishing deal. And it becomes easier to find such talent owing to his multinational partners namely, Andre Gomez of Guyana, Adrian Johnson of Trinidad and Tobago and Noorez “Nunu” Rhemtulla of Tanzania. Ron has had various roles across the music industry since 2008 and the team has been putting emphasis on finding and procuring talent from Guyana, the Caribbean, Africa, Latin America and territories outside of North

America. “Our mission is to go after Guyanese talent, and we do have our eyes set on a few persons, but we will have to first sit down with them,” Ron told the Pepperpot Magazine in an online interview

on Friday. His company has the capacity to sign an artist upward of US$5M. “With this capacity, we can go after writers, producers, artists, from all across the world,” Ron noted. The company

Lazer) to Concord Music Publishing. Colombian songwriter and producer, Bassto, will be the first signing under this new joint venture. After a year of collaborating with established music creatives across the USA and UK, Bassto has become a heavily sought-after producer and skillfully contributed on several hits this year. Guyanese star, Dominic “Remar” Weekes, who is being managed by Jonathan Beepat, has been working with Creative Titans while they help to orchestrate a US/

UK publishing and record deal for him. “From the first day of interacting with the team at Concord, both UK and USA staff, I knew we would be able to mesh a fruitful business relationship - I felt at home. We are very excited to lend our A&R insight for music creation and be a champion for the writers that we publish,” Ron expressed.

Performing Rights Organisation

Apart from finding Guyanese singers and songwrit-

Ron André Elvis Telford

ers, Ron has his eyes set on creating a performing rights organization in Guyana. He said because Guyana has no such organisation, it makes it difficult for major companies across the world to come and do business here. It also hinders local artists from being adequately compensated for their work. “We’re taking slow, baby steps to ensure that this becomes a reality. This will enable artists to access the worldwide markets,” Ron said.

Producer Sebastian “Bassto” Zapata (forefront) and Guyanese singer/songwriter Dominic “Remar” Weekes

‘IzyBeats’ and ‘Koffee’ currently have the #1 reggae song in the world, which was Grammy-nominated. It was put together by Creative Titans

managed Guyanese singing sensation Tameka Marshall for a while, but things did not work out. Ron said the team still wishes her well and hopes for the best with her career. Meanwhile, just recently, Creative Titans entered into a multi-million dollar joint venture partnership with Concord Music Publishing. Success has come over the last two years via their Creative Titans imprint - Creative Titans is a hybrid music company that leads with artist management and music publishing. M o s t r e c e n t l y, R o n played a key role in putting together Vybz Kartel “Watch Over Us”, Koffee “Toast”, Jorja Smith “Be Honest”, Koffee feat Gunna “W” and Ludmilla “Verdinha”. Last summer, he worked with Kim Frankiewicz, Harri Davies, Tom Desavia, and Jeremy Yohai in closing the deal to bring Walshy Fire (of Major

Daniel Bearman (Concord A&R), Grace Adeyemo (Concord A&R), Sebastian “Bassto” Zapata, Ron André Elvis Telford, and Bradly Palmer (Concord A&R)

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

Passionate poet uses poetry to help schoolchildren Carlene said her dream was to use poetry as a teaching tool

By Telesha Ramnarine

Carlene Gill-Kerr

U

SING poetry to help youths in school to find solutions to the common problems affecting them is an idea that Carlene Gill-Kerr took to the Ministry of Education. It seemed that it wasn’t going to come to fruition, but six months later, the ministry replied and granted her the funds to execute a pilot project. “What we did was to take the poems that deal with social issues such as suicide, self-esteem, Guyanese education, and say of that in poetry, and in a way

that made it fun,” Carlene told the Pepperpot Magazine recently. She started to write since she was about eight years old and would put all of her feelings into the poems. “My dream was to use poetry as a teaching tool. Poetry for me was like a sounding board; that’s the way I would express myself. I grew up very shy, so I would put all of my emotions into poetry.” It wasn’t until her high school days that she started to share her poems with a few friends. “As I got older and exposed my poetry to persons, everyone kept saying they’re relevant; that the Education Ministry can use my stuff.” And that’s when she decided to put together a proposal to take to the ministry, for which she received an ‘Arts and Culture Grant.’ Carlene was able to visit six secondary schools with a team of other poets including, Keion Heywood, Gabrielle Mohammed, and Daryl Goodchild. “ We w e n t i n t o t h e schools and spoke about relevant situations and what we saw just heightened the fact that there’s a need for something like this. They

Carlene and her husband Melbourne Carlene during one of her performances

kept asking when we would come back. The teachers are saying something like this is needed because this is something outside of the curriculum,” Carlene expressed. The team only had three weeks under the grant to visit the schools and is, therefore, hoping that they can somehow continue this project. “We’d love to be able to do it on an ongoing basis, based on the results that we had. They say they didn’t realise that poetry can be so much fun. I am hoping that we can have it prolonged.” Some of the schools visited included Ann’s Grove, North Ruimveldt, East Ruimveldt and Carmel. “The results were just amazing. You saw the need for it, and the feedback sessions were really good. We asked for feedback from both teachers and students. They all appreciated having something like this on an ongo-

ing basis.” As such, Carlene said she is exploring the possibility of asking other agencies to fund the project. Meanwhile, individuals and businesses may approach Carlene for work. She does poetry for persons in keeping with themes, such as for a church service, or for someone’s birthday. In fact, she had done a poem for the opening of the energy department. It talks about the oil industry and the relevance of it. Her husband, Melbourne Kerr who is Jamaican, would take the audio versions of her poems and add music to them, which makes them even more interesting. Some have been posted on YouTube, while some are available on CDs. Carlene also does an annual ‘Waves of Emotions’ show with other poets who have a similar vision for poetry.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

V

Aspire Youth Network Guyana and their mission in changing lives through advocacy

T

HE group in its name “ASPIRE” speaks to what their work entails; it stands for Advocates for Safe Parenthood; Improving Reproductive Equity. ASPIRE Youth Network Guyana aims at becoming the leading voice for adolescent and youth health. This group of dedicated young people are working together to ensure that the future of youth is safe; healthy and effectively managed. ASPIRE is managed by a diverse group of young professionals who are working towards the development of this generation and those to come. They believe in educating and equipping young people with the essential knowledge and skills to ensure that they are ready to assume leadership positions in our society. Their vision suggests that young people can lead in the response to Sexual Reproductive Health intervention; since young people are the people who are largely affected negatively due to the lack of education and access to services. The journey of this youth

network first began in 2015, after the founder decided to merge a seasonal program he was operating during

ious reproductive health-related issues. The aim was to encourage young people to have a bold approach to

up the local leg of ASPIRE. This active youth network aids in the provision, education and advocacy

A few members of the ASPIRE Youth Network Guyana

the Summer Vacation. The Summer Programme called “The Bold Approach” is a two-year-old project that brings together young people from across the country to develop advocacy and build their capacity on var-

conservations about sexual reproductive health. Upon sharing the vision with ASPIRE representatives from Trinidad and St. Lucia; the Guyana chapter was birthed and commissioned a solid plan for advocacy by setting

ASPIRE Youth Network alongside children from the Ogle Sanatan Dharma Sabha, after facilitating two sessions with the children on the topics of bullying, mental health and coping of emotions

The ASPIRE Youth Network Guyana

of many issues and topics that plague the youth of our country. Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Advocacy is one of many of those issues. ASPIRE safeguards the Reproductive Health and Reproductive Rights of all Guyanese; especially women and girls. Also, through community advocacy to increase information about contraceptives and family planning and through education and awareness will be conducting projects geared at sensitisation of the Guyanese people about these and many other issues. The organisation is geared at ad-

dressing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights and a large focus will also be placed on Comprehensive Sexuality Education and this will be taught through partnerships with organisations, government agencies and community and youth-based groups. ‘Women’s Rights are Human Rights.’ As such, ASPIRE is an organisation that aims to promote the importance of Women’s Right advocacy. They are committed to ensuring that the rights of all women will be upheld, and they aim to speak out to issues where that may not be the case. The main women’s rights issue that we hope to effectively address is abortion. This is because some Guyanese often remain ignorant to many of the issues surrounding the accurate and scientific explanations for abortion. Gender Based Violence is also another issue that this network seeks to advocate for. Gender-based violence is a crime and a human rights violation that occurs, often repeatedly, in the lives of a great number of women (in comparison to men) around the world. This group of young and vibrant youngsters also focuses on fostering conversations with young people on the subject of the importance of maintaining good mental and physical health. They usually host an annual “health minds-ready body”, a dance and Zumba class where they find time during warm-up and warm-down to discuss the importance of mental health care.

Dennis Glasglow is the director of the Youth Aspire Network Guyana group. He stressed that “YOU-th Can Do It”-ASPIRE is fully aware that more than 60% of Guyana’s population are young people”. He continued by saying, “many of them do not have exposure to leadership and management and we hope that through empowerment and teachings, we can be able to strengthen our future by investing in our youth-NOW.” They strongly believe in investing in young people and preparing them to assume leadership positions in the country. Currently, the Aspire Youth Network is working on six capacity building sessions that will be executed in the first phase of the new year 2020 (one session a month). Currently, Aspire Youth Network Guyana has an ongoing social media recognition campaign. It is an annual initiative that seeks to recognise the hard work of youth across Guyana for their contributions in their specialised fields. They are a network, not to be confused as an organisation. If you or someone you know have similar interests in advocacy and volunteerism to help aid in the eradication of the issues mentioned then you can surely join the network. You alongside fiveten persons can start their own Aspire unit in your community to help make a change in the lives of your fellow youth!

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

VI

I

HOPE these weeks have been treating you all well – and that 2019 allowed for good mental and physical health. To all those celebrating a good year, I wish you continued happiness and success in 2020. To those recovering from a bad year, I hope you’re optimistic about a change in the upcoming year; as they say, no rainbow without rain. In the New Year, there will still be many things which are not within our control but our attitudes, behaviour towards others and ourselves will be. It is obvious why we celebrate the New Year; much like birthdays we celebrate surviving another year because sadly, many others do not. New Year’s is particularly special as it brings a natural desire to reflect on the past, remember achievements and create a plan for the future, with a clear aim to overcome any sort of challenges

A New Year Ahead along the way. It is a time that focuses on self-reflection and self-improvement. New Year, New You is a common saying but a more prac- t i c a l one is New Year, New View. My favourite thing about New Years has always been resolutions and the hope and determination that accompanies them. I’m aware (based on my own actions as well as those around me) that most resolutions only last until the end of January. We tend to give up on them for various reasons- they may have been unrealistic, unimportant or pressured. To solve this, the answer seems pretty

obvious – choose resolutions that you are actually able to do, ones that you truly want to do and most importantly, ones that improve your quality of life. Reso-

lifestyle. A little tip – I researched some scientific studies in order to determine what makes someone more likely to adhere to their resolu-

Happy New Year

lutions are not about conforming to what you believe society w a n t s , it’s not an obligation or task but rather a new, anticipated

tion. Evidently, those who planned in detail were 22% more likely to succeed in practising their resolution throughout the year. For example, aiming to lose 10 pounds in two months rather than just having the general resolution of ‘losing weight.’ Additionally, those who told their friends and families about these resolutions were 10% more likely to succeed than those who did not. I have many resolutions this year- all of which focus on self-development with an aim to improve mental health. These include positive thinking, adapting only healthy coping skills as well as practising gratitude and forgiveness – all things I genuinely want for myself which makes it possible with hard work. If you haven’t been able to decide on a resolution, I’d like to make a suggestion that I think is much needed for many- to live in the moment. Most people don’t realise that the what if ’s, should haves’,

could haves’ are responsible for a great deal of stress and anxiety. If you spend your moments regretting the past or awaiting something else- when you have m o r e m o n e y, when you’re thinner, when you get into a relationship you’ll finally do this and that – you not only d e - lay happiness and adventure but you let your life slip by. Self-improvement i s an overall goal, not a day to day interruption or hindrance. The wait is an important part of the j o u r n e y as nothing w o r t h having comes from instant gratification. Occupational psychologists who specialise in obtaining life goals recommend abiding by the SMART method- Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Relevant and Time. Since the goal of saving more money is a common resolution, let’s use that as the context example. Specific- you shouldn’t just say ‘I want to save money’ but rather, how are you planning on doing this? What are you implementing or giving up? A side business? Buying less alcohol? Taking lunch to work instead of buying it there? Measurable- this should be the desired amount to strive for – how much extra money are you planning to have every week or month? Attainable- you need to be realistic in your goal setting. If it’s not possible to save a certain amount, do not aim for it. Start with a small

and repeatedly manageable amount. If you overestimate and are not able to attain or maintain it, it will serve as a setback, initiating the impression that you cannot do it in general. Relevant- of course saving money is always a good idea but what are you specifically aiming for? A car? House? School fees? Research shows that one is more successful at saving money when there is a clear objective for its use. Time- set a realistic deadline. If you have a sum in mind, decide on a date when you believe it is possible to attain. This will keep you on track and increase motivation. Actually, all of the above will increase motivation and therefore the overall likelihood of achieving and maintaining your resolutions. Please remember that the SMART method can be used for any chosen resolution. I suggest that everyone keeps a journal with their resolutions. Write one thing (every day) that you have done in order to fulfil your resolution. This will encourage you to keep going as well as create self-confidence by being able to clearly see your progress. How to get started? Make a list of all the positive things that 2019 has brought forth and follow it up by a second list of things you’d like to achieve in 2020. I wish you all the very best. Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@ gmail.com Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 6007896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

VII

#SupportCreativity

By Subraj Singh

‘The Witcher’ is Not Yet the Next ‘Game of Thrones’ I T IS a bit foolish to expect the first season of ‘The Witcher,’ a show that has not been embraced by critics to be regarded as a replacement for ‘Game of Thrones,’ one of the mostloved, most-watched series of all time. I understand why people would think that ‘The Witcher’ could be the next ‘Game of Thrones.’ Both shows focus on a fantasy world where politics and magic are built into the fabric of society, there are multiple storylines to follow and many characters to keep track of, and ‘The Witcher’ has certainly taken hold of the public’s imagination, albeit not on the same level that ‘Game of Thrones’ once did. In terms of pop culture, ‘Game of Thrones’ was something that captured the attention of people on various levels and bound them all together. When a new episode of ‘Thrones’ came out, it felt like the whole world was watching at the same time. When a new twist in the series was revealed, the world reacted in surprise. When bad writing and executive decisions emerged (as in season 8), the whole world spat vitriol and demanded damage-control. ‘Game of Thrones’ connected book readers (specifically those who read George R. R. Martin’s work on which the series is based) with show-watchers, audiences who loved medieval-inspired fantasy with those who thrived on political mind-games, believers in the underdog with advocates for heroes and heroines built on wit and ambition. There was something in ‘Game of Thrones’ for everyone. Furthermore, it had a full eight seasons, an entire decade to build and cement its legacy, whether through its ambitious storytelling, performances, or the reversal of typical fantasy tropes. This show, in a way, defined the previous decade of television and in years to come it will be held up as an example of the kind of work that was

“The Witcher, 2019, Netflix – Image via: IMDB”

produced in this golden era of television and streaming networks. ‘The Witcher,’ in comparison, cannot come close to ‘Game of Thrones.’ However, I also believe that there is enough potential in ‘The Witcher’ that can enable it to ascend, in future seasons, to a place where it might eventually be regarded, both critically and from an audience’s perspective, as a worthy successor to ‘Game of Thrones.’ After all, even ‘Game of Thrones’ did not become what it eventually became based on its first season only. Whether ‘The Witcher ’ can evolve and secure a position as essential television in the same way remains to be seen. ‘The Witcher,’ for starters does have a good story going for it. Even though I am not finished with the first season, I have seen enough to be able to say with conviction that I am invested in, and intrigued by, the tale of Geralt of Rivia, a witcher (a magical monster-hunter),

who crosses paths with the beautiful and deadly mage, Yennefer of Vengerberg, and is connected by destiny to the lost princess, Cirilla of Cintra. These characters in their pursuit of, or escape from, their destinies are made all the more interesting with inclusion of gargantuan monsters, shape-shifters, dragons, knights, witches, and a host of mysterious supporting characters. The cast is mostly strong, though Henry Cavill as the title character, and based on the six episodes that I have watched so far, needs to be given more material that allows him to demonstrate the full range of his acting abilities. He is great to look at, but for him to become a hero that we love and root for (a Jon Snow of the new decade), we need to be able to connect with the character on some emotional level. Perhaps this will happen before the end of the first season. If not, hopefully, it comes to fruition in the second season.

Anya Chalotra impresses as Yennefer, particularly in the earlier scenes before she undergoes her transformation. Freya Allan as Cirilla is also good, conveying the princess’ need for survival and her childlike grace with ease. ‘The Witcher’ presents us with a story and characters that have limitless potential, as all tales of fantasy do, and if this first season is meant to introduce the primary characters, their motivations, and the central conflicts, all of which it does successfully, then the narrative of the already-ordered second season will undoubtedly have to amp up the action, character development, and narrative twists and turns to keep things interesting, which is something that I truly hope the showrunners, writers, directors, and producers can do. After all, despite the wonderful budget that provides us with some good CGI and exotic locales, there is very little replacement for an entertaining story. The

show’s strength currently lies in its depiction of the world: in the costumes, the sets, the production values, the characters. Its main flaw lies in the writing. There are times in the show when the lines of the characters are so vague and obtuse that I have to rewind by a few seconds to try and understand what is being said. There are times when the pace of the show becomes quite dull. Sometimes, the characters say and do things that are not entirely developed or do not make sense in their entirety. These are all elements that emerge from the central writing flaw that has probably earned ‘The Witcher’ the ire of the critics who have not entirely fallen in love with it. If these elements are resolved in the second season, then ‘The Witcher’ will undoubtedly be on its way to becoming one of the best shows of the new decade of television and streaming.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

International Living For

2020

W

E are celebrating the last Sunday in 2020 and I have a great feeling of optimism about the future. It is the season of love, restoration, reflection and for me - consuming a lot of cake, lol. I am a cake lover and had the best black cake this year from Pritipaul, head chef of Tower Suites. He is a great chef and his desserts are AWESOME. He deposits lots of love in all his cuisine which makes it special. Talking about love in the season of LOVE, when I witness people displaying love and care it always make

on him so seeing the bed empty and learning of his passing was extremely sad. To think that he was deserted for all these years and I was not even sure of the burial he had. I also visited my favourite ward which is the children’s ward. I made some great friends with kids over the years in this ward. I always engage the moms because I was there feeling helpless with my first daughter who was there when she was just one year six months and my story inspired many. It is always good to inspire and be inspired and my final event did just that. SCALET –An Evening of Inspiration at Tower Suites.

the room did not know each other but in those few hours, anyone looking at it would think it was years of friendship. One thing that stood out is, people felt they were in a safe space so they could share their journeys without someone judging them. It was the perfect environment to UNMASK and offload some weight we have been carrying around. “ I hated myself for years, so much so that I could not even look myself in the mirror, but after going through the Living With Intention programme, I had a mindset shift and now I am learning how to love me,” said a stunning young lady. I have seen the reviews

me happy and it makes the world a better place. More of my friends and colleagues are requesting to join me on my hospital visits. Last Sunday was emotional because one of the patients whom I frequently visit passed away. My family became close to this man who we met because he was on the bed next to my brother when he died. Unfortunately, his family brought him into the hospital after a stroke and never came back so he resided for five years there. Recently he told me he wanted Chinese fried rice and I watched him open the box and the expression on his face was priceless. I would drop in just to check

I was motivated to host this event because the persons who did the programme read my book LIVING WITH INTENTION. The dress code was red. Red is the colour of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, war, danger, strength, power, determination as well as passion, desire, and love. Red is a very emotionally intense colour. It was an evening I will never forget and from the feedback, I am not the only one. I went through over 300 pictures taken by Cleveland from Eclipse. If one photo tells 1,000 words just do the calculation. I have so much love and admiration for the ladies in the pics, because they beat the odds and persevered. Most people in

on Amazon for Living with Intention, but hearing the many testimonies that evening reminded me why I wrote this book. A testimony that got me emotional came from the youngest person in the room. Her mother died five years ago and she got disconnected from God, but because of the Living with Intention programme, she is now reconnected with God. I feel convicted to share my experience of when I exhibited my faith and the results. It is a good feeling, even if it is one person who benefitted as a result of crossing your path.

One thing that we all had in common at the end of that evening is that for this new decade we all will be living a life with intention and encouraging many people to do the same. Thank you to Tower Suites and Keisha Phillips for contributing to a life-changing evening. Let’s speak positive things into our lives and everyone we encounter. The tongue was given to us like a tree of life; thus, we need to use our tongues to speak faith and not fear. The next programme commences in January and you can email beyondtherunway1@ gmail.com if you are interested.

Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion We are not just embarking on a new year, but a new decade that awaits us with endless possibilities. Let us continue to de-

posit greatness into each other’s lives as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

IX

RING IN THE NEW YEAR AND

A PROSPEROUS 2020 TO ALL!

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N A few days the year 2019 will expire and 2020 will be birthed. This is symbolised by an old man moving to his inevitable demise and at the same time welcoming a new-born baby representing the new year. The advent of the new year, in all cultures, is always enveloped in traditions, myths, superstitions and even philosophic lessons. For example, the depiction of the old year as an old man, who though sturdy enough, is inexorably moving towards death reminds us of our mortality and how close and unexpected it is. In Western cultures, we celebrate the old year as part of the new year since Old Year”s night is subsumed and indeed, flows into the new year. This is different from say the Hindu or Islamic New Year where there is a distinctiveness between the Old and the New. There is a strong belief that one’s home and surroundings should be kept in good order and that one should be well-attired and well-fed when the new year arrives, since this same milieu will continue for the rest of the year. It is a time of family dinners and reunions; of settling old quarrels; of church-going and dances, for if the new year finds one in a joyous mood, such will continue through the new year. Thus at midnight, there is an eruption of joyous noises, of singing, loudly exchanging new year greetings, discharging squibs and fireworks and raising “Auld lang syne,” that Scottish song which expresses nostalgia for the year which has just passed and a hopeful and joyous welcome for the new year. Auld lang syne is the veritable anthem for the passing of the old year and the advent of the new. New Year Resolutions are among the most important facets of that festival. Most of us believe that such resolutions are of a personal kind, but there are resolutions of a societal and country

kind also. Such country resolutions tend to go on from year to year with little change and are found largely among politicians and those who make national budgets. Since there is little that is new or exciting in them, they are almost forgotten. Personal New Year Resolutions, on the other hand, are always alive and lay out an optimistic course of action and achievement for the person making them and they serve as affirmations. Societal or Country Resolutions for Guyana for the New Year 2020 would be very different from the past, since in 2020 the country would have been metamorphosed into an oil and gas one. Oil wealth would begin to flow and the country could realistically achieve the dreams of development it had always had from the time of Sir Walter Raleigh. The country resolution is to improve the standard of living of the population by having enough funds to inject into the development of agriculture, industry and social services. Wages, salaries and pensions would be improved. Health services throughout the country will begin to move towards the highest levels with surgeries and medical treatments, which could only have been accessioned abroad would be done locally. The Faculty of Medicine of the University would be upgraded and serious medical research would be embarked upon. Education is another area where standards would begin to be immediately raised. All teachers would have better salaries and would be fully trained so that there would be no untrained teachers in the schools. School buildings would be modernised and properly equipped and the hardships which pupils from poorer families now experience would begin to disappear. Throughout its history, Guyana was known to be a country with vast resources waiting to be developed. Whatever devel-

opment occurred did so at a slow and painful pace leaving the country in 2019 with a sugar industry, a bauxite industry and a rice industry struggling to survive because of lack of capital injections. The other industry which has been earning is the gold industry which needs capital to be spent on infrastructural development. With the infusion of adequate capital which would be derived from the oil and gas industry, they would become prosperous and a source of continuous and permanent wealth unlike oil and gas, whose existence is finite, as Trinidad is sadly experiencing. Oil revenues would have been spent on the development of cheaper and renewable energy, mainly on hydropower and solar energy. These cheaper and renewable sources have eluded Guyana for decades and made the profitable and continuous development of industry and agriculture almost impossible. Now, this handicap would have been forever removed. And lastly, The Venezuelan controversy which has been such a threat to the country’s security and existence and which was used by Venezuela to prevent investment in Guyana and stymie economic development, would have been put to rest. The hearings of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) would have brought the issue to its finality and Venezuela would inevitably have to accept the boundaries as had been decided by the 1899 Arbitration and which Venezuela herself demarcated with Britain shortly thereafter. Guyana’s New Year Resolutions are optimistic and far more realisable than personal resolutions. When the traditional new year greeting of “Ring in the New Year” and “Prosperous 2020” are given, they would be more meaningful to Guyanese than they had ever been.

Faith, belief, our rites & rituals ―Our religions and the proverbial ‘Obeah man’

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HIS article stems from the recent public debate on the Facebook declaration and assertions by Kester Deane and the counter-accusations that followed. I was a part of the initial engagement that resulted in his apology on which, sadly, under pressure, he has reneged. All to this point I will say on it is that I am convinced that he did not see the religious flags that he circled as ‘Hindu flags’ that if indeed as I am told he grew up and still lives in any South Georgetown ward that includes Lodge, West Le Penitence, Ruimveldt areas, South of Hadfield Street. The flags he is accustomed to seeing are African non-Christian

denomination sects, who are and have been the butt of ridicule and suspicion from since he was a child because I lived in that area, and I am older than he is and know the remarks and castigations directed at those groups. Serving with a constitutional commission, I can recall at a stakeholder meeting at Linden the complaint of Christian prejudices against a non-Christian, African-based group was brought to us including that of Mother Archer and Mother Monica and later Brother Neville and others scattered in those wards, including faithist groups. This incident is indicative of the ignorance of cultural matters that includes religion, which prevail in this

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

E FILES S A C T COUR

High Court judge rightly rejects non-evidence in Will case t h costs to responden

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By George Barclay

HE trial judge who heard the action in the first place rejected the appellants’ testimony of evidence of suspicious circumstances as held by the judge, and declared that the action was dismissed. The facts are as follows: James Harry Sukhdeo, the deceased testator, was twice married. His first wife, Hiria, bore 8 children, and when she predeceased him, he married Sukdai, who gave birth to six children. When John Sukhdeo died in 1972, he left three testamentary instruments; and Sukdai brought an action in the High Court, seeking to propound in solemn form the latest of them, in which she shared Sukhdeo’s estate along with her six children.

it w n io is c e d ’s e g d te Court affirms ju

―Appella

In the two earlier wills, the seven named appellants — children of the testator’s first wife, Hiria — were all named as beneficiaries; but their names not having appeared in the latest will, they contested the grant of probate on the following grounds: (1) That Sukhdeo did not sign it (2) That

the w i l l was ineffective as a testamentary document because, in the body of it, the testator’s

name “Harry” had been originally written as “Henry”, and the word “West” was written for “East” (3) That the will was not duly executed (4) That the deceased had lacked testamentary capacity at the time of its execution. Having satisfied himself that the onus of proof of the genuineness of the will rested in Sukdai,

being the party propounding it, and that none of six alleged circumstances of suspicion attending the due execution

was proved, the trial judge pronounced in favour of the will after deciding all four issues against the appellants, who were now seeking to upset those findings. I n finding t h a t the testat o r did, as a fact, sign the will, the judge resolve an apparent conflict between the evidence of a barrister friend and adviser of the deceased testator, whose veracity and integrity he found to be unquestioned, and his clerk, who impressed him as a witness of truth

and reliability, as to how it came about that the name “Henry” was substituted for “Harry” in the body of the will. The judge accepted the clerk’s version in preference to the barrister’s, because he thought the former seemed to have a better recollection. He thus accepted that both barrister and clerk had endeavoured to tell the truth about the preparation and execution of the will. He, however, rejected as mere conjecture and as unreliable opinion, evidence of a handwriting expert called on behalf of the appellants, who testified that the admitted and disputed signatures on a previous will and on the questioned will were not both made by the deceased testator. Justice of Appeal, Haynes, held: (1) – That the credibility of the barrister and his clerk was the crux of the matter. (2)- That the case was not difficult for the trial judge to adjudicate on the evidence before him. The only alternative to the genuineness of the handwriting was the supposition that it was a carefully planned forgery as an integral part of a criminal conspiracy involving a barrister of 26 years’ standing; his clerk of humbler status, but whose honesty and truthfulness impressed the trial judge tremendously; and presumably the respondent. (2) – That it was purely

a question of fact; and in all the circumstances of this case, this court would not be justified in interfering with the trial judgment. (3) – That the expert opinion evidence on which the appellants heavily relied to prove the will was not made by the deceased was devoid of reasons for the opinion that the deceased’s signature was a forgery. The evidence only indicated in a general way the matters and things the expert considered in reaching his conclusion. No comparison being made in court, the evidence was unsatisfactory and unhelpful. The trial judge would have been entitled to treat it as valueless, and was not wrong to reject it. (4) – That the trial judge was justified on high authority in comparing the signature of the disputed will with the admitted signatures of the deceased; and on the evidence of his own eyes, to reach a firm conviction that the signature on the will was indeed that of the testator and no one else. (5) – That from the finding of the judge — that he believed and accepted the evidence of the respondent and her witness — he must be held to mean that either the proven facts as found by him did not amount to suspicious circumstances, or that they explained away any facts which did amount to suspicious circumstance. (7) – That the appeal be dismissed, and the order of the court below affirmed; and that the third, fourth and fifthnamed defendants do pay costs to the respondent.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

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NE way or the other, 2020 was always going to be a great big year for Guyana. This year, the country will commemorate 50 years as a Cooperative Republic; General and Regional elections will be held; and, it will solidify itself as an oil-producing nation (only because production began a few months ahead of schedule). Guyana established itself as an independent nation in 1966, and four years later, in 1970, we became a Cooperative Republic (not just a Republic). This year, we will be commemorating 50 years since the country assumed a guiding philosophy of being a Cooperative nation, headed by an Executive President. Fifty years ago, it was envisioned that the philosophy of the Cooperative Republic would guide the efforts of nation-building. This philosophy posited that each Guyanese would be involved in, and benefit from the development of industries. Fifty years later, it is an undeniable fact that the country’s nation-building efforts have been stunted, to a large extent, by divisive politics and some poor economic decisions. Then, after those February celebrations, we head straight into those elections that will decide who are the people that will be responsible for heralding in our new decade of development. Elections aren’t a pretty time for Guyana. I can recall the past two elections and they are times I’d much rather avoid. Then, it seemed as though all those underlying tensions in this country just found a way to overflow.

a n a y u G r o f r a e y g i b t a e r g A And then, we factor oil in the conversation. Ever since 2015, when global oil giant ExxonMobil announced that it had found oil just off these shores, oil has become an indelible part of Guyana. Suddenly, one of the poorer countries in this part of the world came under the global limelight; pundits (local and abroad) came out in all their glory, my fellow citizens are both anxious but hopeful, and well, Guyana is the popular girl that everyone wants to be friends with. I have a great deal of anxiety myself about the production of oil and gas. As a young person, I worry, first and foremost, about the environmental impact of extracting the oil. The extraction, production, and use of petroleum contribute in no small way to climate change. Added to that, the threat of an oil spill and the hazardous characteristic of petroleum are things that exacerbate this environmental concern. But, as a Guyanese, I worry mostly about the management of the new industry. Guyana has been blessed with an abundance of resources, but the country has not had the best experience at managing these. I don’t think we have lived up to achieve that vision of a Cooperative Republic. It is my opinion that ethnocentrism and tribal politics have been two of the bigger ills hindering Guyana’s development. In more recent times, we’ve seen attempts to mitigate against these ills, but the country still finds itself in that political quagmire it has grown so accustomed to. To borrow from a column written about two weeks ago by Dr. David Hinds: “Many of us take the easiest way out by denying that a

How to choose your dentist H OW should you go about choosing a dentist? Should he or she be the one who is in the neighbourhood? That would be fine if you are a gambler by nature and so the chance of you being right would be the same as you are winning the lotto. That dentist may be good or maybe not. The only thing you know is that he or she is conveniently located near to where you live. Should you ask someone you know to recommend one? Maybe, but it is perhaps that person who is satisfied with the dentist’s work and not you and so it is their opinion. Even when one considers that in this country, for every practising dentist there are about 12,000 persons, there could be some problem when the time comes to choose which dentist one should go to. Although many persons have little or no choice when it comes to deciding who their dental practitioner should be since they attend a public clinic, the fact remains choosing a dentist is no small matter these days. Dentistry-like medicine, accounting or law, is a profession. It is not a business, although there are business practices and financial aspects to discuss and employ in the practice of these professions. They are looked upon as being different from a business. Professional people generally get more respect, and more is

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expected of them. What distinguishes a business from a profession, at least in the eyes of the public? For one thing, business is characterised by the sentiment of “Let the buyer beware”. In other words, anything the seller can get away with goes. We have consumer protection laws because consumer needs protection. We have heard about quality control and advertising gimmicks. A profession should be a field where people of integrity, honesty, trustworthiness, and sincerity are retained by the public. That is not to say that we do not find these admirable qualities in the business or business people. Try asking a dentist to explain his findings in your mouth, the details of treatment, clinical expectations and follow-up visits. Ask about the available options and price of each. Carefully make a mental note of his reaction to your probing questions. Prospective patients should be astute enough to recognise and stay away from dentists who use dentistry more as a business rather than a profession. If your dentist should ever say, “ You’ll get the final cost when I’m finished”, beware and don’t fall for that gimmick. The world of dentistry for the layman is an unknown world full of pain, superstition, misinformation and apprehension. It is for this very reason that this author decided to start this column

problem exists, and by sheltering under the customary empty rhetoric of oneness.” More commonly, our Republic Anniversary is known as a celebration after hard work, but maybe this time around, our work is just getting started. Now, the theme for our Jubilee Republic celebration is “Guyana Together: Reflect, Celebrate, Transform.” I can’t think of a more apt theme. “Guyana together” doesn’t mean that we forget our differences; it just means that we recognise that we are different (six different people!), but not separate from each other. Each of us is a piece of the pepperpot, a piece of the Guyanese pepperpot. 2020 also demands that we reflect on all the shortcomings we have had over the years, celebrate how far we’ve come, and most importantly, use all of the experiences we have had to chart a clear path forward to transform this country into a more just, and developed society. And it’s not just for us to pursue economic development, because for too long that has dominated the narrative of what development as. No, our development should involve playing to our strengths- that is, recognising our potential as a sustainable, green nation. No pressure or anything, but this time around we only have the entire world looking at us eagerly awaiting to see if we fail or succeed. We might as well give then a good show and illustrate how this tiny, green country can pursue sustainable development that would allow for the improvement of all its people. 2020 can be the watershed in Guyana’s development. Can we do it? Yes, we can!

nearly fourteen years ago. Since then I have always tried my best to have a weekly publication. My objective is to arm the dental patient with the basic knowledge of dentistry so that they cannot be easily fooled. The profession becomes culpable whenever there is a general lack on the part of dental personnel to respond appropriately to the patient’s needs while allaying fears and apprehensions. Dentists owe the public for the privileges and financial security they enjoy and must pay with outgoing concern for their dental well-being. Your choice of a dentist can affect your dental health for the rest of your life. It should not be a “crisis choice” when you are in pain. At such times you cannot think rationally and make any intelligent choice. If the dentist you get is not your kind of person, thank him, pay him and leave. It will be a lot cheaper in the long run. Finally, dental care is a two-way street. Each time the machine breaks down, it gets harder and harder to fix, and it will not work quiet s well as it did before. If you want success, become a working partner with your dentist. If you find that this is impossible with the dentist you picked, then try another one.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

Diversity in the art world “Visual arts” refers to a broad spectrum of related fields. These include the artist, photographer, craftsman, art critic, architect, graphic designer, printmaker, art teacher, fashion designer and more. These jobs differ because of the tools and techniques used and the messages they send. The term artist is said to refer to a painter, sculptor or a potter. As an aspiring artist, I never wanted to be seen as a craftsman, as I felt that being an artist was more prestigious. I would get into heated arguments about the difference between an artist and a craftsman. This was quite ironic because my expressive forms were textile and ceramics. When I joined the Guyana Women Artists’ Association (GWAA) in 2011 this perception was further reinforced as I was challenged to create a textile that would fall in the bracket of ‘fine art,’ a challenge that I accepted and was successfully able to execute. At our exhibitions, anything that was not deemed as fine art was placed on a ‘side table.’ In my opinion, as women artists, there was this quest for disassociation from craft-like things because of the lack of recognition of women as ‘artists.’ The association was formed since 1987 and yet many didn’t consider its members as artists. Thus, there was a transitioning period to challenge us to create ‘fine art.’ Thankfully, that is now in the past and GWAA has returned to its roots where women are encouraged to be true to themselves. There is no longer this restriction to create ‘fine art’. This for me is quite liberating. When one hears of an art exhibition, there is an expectation to view paintings and sculptures only. In the past, certain works were rejected by art galleries because they lacked a certain criterion to be considered as fine art. How-

ever, in more recent years the National Gallery has become more open to other art forms. While some may say, they have dropped their standards, in my opinion, they are beginning to accept the diversity of the art world. I have also found myself more open so that creating craft-like work is now an option I consider. After all, functional things tend to be easily sold. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that artists should just create things that will be sold, because, many artists with that mentality tend to lose themselves. I’m simply saying that we should recognize the diversity of creators in the art field, to the point where we see ourselves as equals. Castellani house has expanded its doors to include works in fine craft, photography, textile and installation. In future, I hope to see works in illustration and graphic arts and more. Art is diverse and as artists, this is one thing we should not forget or choose to ignore. A few weeks ago, a good friend of mine shared a project she had completed. It was a small illustrated book she had helped create for a little boy’s birthday. My friend made the illustrations. An illustration is a picture or diagram that helps to make something clear or attractive. They are found in newspapers, books, magazines, on television and the internet, and are used to share a message or answer a question. Immediately I started referring to my friend as an artist because, in my opinion, she created a work of art. Technically she would be considered as an illustrator. However, I now see things differently and I no longer strive to be technically correct. One of my art tutors once told me, “an artist is who you are, it’s not just what you produce. You either are an artist or you aren’t.”

Faith, belief, our ...

nation, and how easily an offence can be extracted without even mentioning a religious denomination. But by circling the flags of the considered other, in this case, anything that is not of Christianity, but in this case which belongs to Hinduism, to be blamed for incidents that are rooted in social defects, and the inclusion of secular lifestyles that have acquired the custom of practice acceptance; that is detrimental. Obeah is a West African religious practice that is linked to Voodoo. They belong to Old world African mystery systems and have been described as malignant magic by A.J. Seymour in his publication ‘Dictionary of Guyanese Folklore 1975’ as his colonial orientation would have dictated to his sentiments. Obeah was brought here by our African ancestors and has included other influences from Catholicism that resemble and harken to older African Nile valley imagery, familiar to those tribes that migrated from the Nile civilisations into West Africa. We do not practise Obeah in Guyana. OBEAH is the term that

defines any non-Christian mystical, spiritual practice and this definition is one of the direct legacies of our colonial past. That we have never directed energies to adjust and correct through any special education because our divisive politics and its allies have dominated and repressed every other social realm not directly bearing on the power thrust. The proverbial ‘Obeah man’ can be a pandit, Islamic reader, African mystical practitioner, and Amerindian ritual herbalist; anybody except a Christian church leader. And over the years tremendous efforts are needed to distinguish as with the case cited what the differences are, with the casual usage of superstitious jargons with its frightening demon vocabulary against social, medical and narco-substance induced conditions that are prevalent in our society. That is separate from what might be, the genuine unexplainable phenomenon, coming from newbe Christian jump-up church characters. There is the unexplainable, that we term spiritual phenomenon. But we must respect that religion also caters and makes references to human behavioural

conduct. Unwavering moral mechanisms that the writers of the gospel ascribed to ‘The Christ’ messenger “Look not for signs and observations, for the Kingdom of heaven is within you.” That applies to the usage of the divine spark within us that relates to our relationship with our intellect and quest for enlightenment. As an individual, I believe in prayer. I know that there is something intelligent out there with which we can have an intuitive relationship. I also recognise that “The wages of sin is death” it’s a law, and not about angels wielding a judgement sword that there are currents and vibrations linked to our humanity that will be revealed to science, if not already, that determine consequences of actions, serial killers and psychopaths are the variations. But for the previous notion of our vibratory possibilities, the Hindus call it Karma, we all know and use the term, in too many cases ignoring its implications. Regarding the claims of a mystical conspiracy in Kester’s post, the spiritual flaw is in an evident breakdown in moral and civic responsibility, and religious exploita-

tion, rather than religious instructions towards that end. Domestic violence is a consequence of economics in a rapidly changing world, cultural rules as applied to patriarchal creeds on a matriarchal stage. Many acts of arson are rooted in domestic contentions that our legal system is lagging to address. Road carnage requires our observation. I have walked out of buses where the driver was smoking a ganja spliff or had two Guinness beverages in his hand, of which he was drinking from one. When the government changed, the APNU+AFC had begun a training push to accommodate some 40,000 school dropouts, all just out of an era of gunmen, contract-killings and the lazy, callous lethal lure of easy money, providing themselves as hit-men, security for dem big man with cartel-political ties.Thus, our youthful robberies, machismo, gang and finance-related murders. That the mystic-religious, ‘wuk’ men and women, de salawala tribe are contributing to the confusion cannot be denied, they add to the problem, with their ‘Guard Rings’ ‘Boie’ same as Benna, but they were

Illustration by Tara Smith ◄◄◄ From page IX

always there, this I know, though there is an expansion of such due to the criminalisation of our society, many look for mystical ritual based necromantic protection in their criminal exploits, aspects of formal religion have become bastardised. I can remember when my play ‘Legend of the Silk Cotton tree’ was staged for CARIFESTA 10, I had included the trial of Kate Fullington of the Stanleytown Liliwattie Sacrifice; she was represented by a young lawyer named Forbes Burnham. He lost the case, Kate and her brother Benfield were hung in 1950. It was the foremost ritual sacrifice of the day, because I had researched the event from its inception, and it was relative to, and included in the theme of the graphic novel, so I placed it in the play. It was deceptively omitted simply because it involved Forbes Burnham. I had met the lone survivor years before in PHG when my great aunt was in there for a minor operation. They called her ‘Booths’; the important thing to observe was how though she played no part in the ritual, she was said

to be inspired by Dutch spirits and was in opposition to the very idea that it had destroyed her as a person. We spoke for hours in intervals, most times she drifted off mumbling about those times before I could learn basic things from her, that conditions of poverty, superstition, the warnings of the Obeah man at Cotton tree. All amount to the base of a profound study of comparative religion, for which we had no professional expertise at the time. The fact that neurology has so far concluded that a consciousness of God and the divine is wired into our minds, does not leave us with the sole dependency on spiritual and at times superstitious interpretations of all things, there is the term “Give unto Caesar, the things that are of Caesar and to the lord, the things that belong to the lord.” Our sciences, arts, inventions and genius are from the same God source of all Enlightenment. This realisation enables us to develop the able character if we so choose, and to have the strength not to follow the temptation of the popular chant.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

F ocus Garden of Eden The community of bananas, plantains and fruits CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

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on the Village

By Michel Outridge

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HE Pepperpot Magazine visited Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara, a quaint little village which consists of two streets that run deep down into the backlands and is the ideal place for largescale poultry farms. The poultry farms employ locals and the land is fertile, given the

farming and horticulture. Garden of Eden is home to Royal Castle Chicken Inc., the Guyana Power and Light Power Plant, the Guy-

On a walkabout, the Pepperpot Magazine met 75-year-old Bissoondial Boopat, who was grazing his cattle. The senior citizen

very peaceful and there is no trouble there at all. He added that he used to rear cattle on a large scale, but today, given his

“Well I like the place; since I come and live here from Bel Air, I get to like it and being a dairy farmer, I get used

Street which is home to many cash-crop farmers and the road which was paved about a year ago is one and a half miles

The new housing scheme in Garden of Eden

GDF farm (Carl Croker photos)

Bissoondial Boopat taking home his cows after grazing

Construction in Garden of Eden

bountiful crops in almost every plot. Small but yet large, Garden of Eden is home to less than 1,000 people of Indo, Afro and Indigenous ancestry, who are cash crops, large-scale poultry and cattle farmers. The village has vast backlands which meet the water conservancy from where the city gets its water supply and it has abundant fruit trees and vegetables. Almost every resident has a large-sized plot that allows them to practise

GPL Power Plant, Public Road, Garden of Eden

ana Defence Force farm, the Demerara Harbour Bridge Asphalt Company and some small businesses.

stated that he has been residing in the community for the past 60 years and for him it is home, because the village is

age, he has only five cows and is taking things easy, but still finds things to keep himself occupied.

to this quiet life, and I get big, so I don’t do large scale anymore,” he said. Life is comfortable, but the only thing is that the two utility poles in front of his house are rotten from the base and he is fearful it may fall and injure him or someone else; he is therefore urging the relevant authorities to replace them with new ones, he said. Boopat told the Pepperpot Magazine that most days he would walk out his cows and then return them to his property. He lives in Second

long; the last part leading to the backlands is unpaved and is very muddy. Second Street also accommodates a new housing scheme with very large houses; the occupants are not from the village but mostly outsiders, who purchased lands and constructed houses there. The village has electricity, potable water supply, landline telephones and internet services, though residents stated that connectivity is very slow in that area. Second Street is divided into two sections and in the middle is the canal which runs through the entire street from the Public Road to the backlands. Most of the bananas and plantains come from Garden of Eden and are sold both within the community and as far as the city.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

The people Gardeof n of Eden By Michel Outridge

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URING a visit to Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara, the Pepperpot Magazine met a villager, Doris Doodnauth, whose family is involved in large-scale farming of plantains, bananas, citrus, passion fruit, and cherries among others.

large farm. “Since me small me like farm and when me married and come here,it encouraged me more because the cow dung is right here and the space; so I just started to plant,” she explained. Doodnauth added that even though farming is ‘back-breaking’ work, it is always better to work with yourself rather than having

cause we live simple and we work hard and it is a nice place to live; simply no worries at all, because everybody here does something so we don’t have the time for nonsense,” she said. Doodnauth and her family also have 25 cows and would sell the milk and along with some fruits within the community daily. She reported that her son

Home of Doris Doodnauth

“My day starts early and ends whenever the work is done; luckily, I have daughters-in-law to assist and we try to live as one unit, but we are happy,” she said. Doodnauth told the Pepperpot Magazine that they have 25 acres of land, but half of it belongs to her husband’s brother and they do their farming as per norm. She noted that all her

than just doing nothing and get sick and being self-employed is a really good thing,” she said. The Pepperpot Magazine also met Cubra Mohamed, an aspiring civil engineer, who will be gainfully employed in the new year. He is a local of Garden of Eden and he resides with his parents.Their property is one of the well-kept plots

Mohamed said his parents are responsible for the farm and the flower plants in the yard and he would assist with the sheep and goats they rear. “Almost every resident in this street has a plot of land that is more than 22 acres and they farm and rear chickens and cattle mostly,” he said. Mohamed related that

Doodnauth’s farm

Doris Doodnauth in her farm (Carl Croker photos)

Cubra Mohamed

One of the many farms in Garden of Eden

The 57-year-old sees farming as a hobby and not a job, so to speak, and related that ever since she was a young girl she realised that she likes farming and when she married and relocated to Garden of Eden, it was the perfect place to have a

to work for other people. The mother of four sons stated that her family is large with 10 family members and they all pitch in and do their part to upkeep the farm. “Life is good here be-

would milk the cows and goes around the village to sell the milk and whatever the farm produces, in terms of greens and fruits, but if it is too much it would be sold at Stabroek Market to a wholesaler.

produce is strictly organic and they do not use chemicals nor fertilisers, which makes it wholesome and of good quality; as such, the greens last longer without being refrigerated. “Rather work any day

which has flower plants in abundance and in neat rows in the front yard. Next door, they have a section for their citrus and other fruits, along with some vegetables which they plant on a relatively large scale.

there are about 50 residents in his street, but the other street is more populated. He stated that life there is good, except there is a need for better internet and landline phone services.

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Working on the chicken farms The chicken farm David Salvadore works on (Carl Croker photos)

Roland Benjamin

David Salvadore

By Michel Outridge

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EING a caretaker for a large chicken farm is certainly a challenge, but David Salvadore stepped up to the task to provide for his family of 10 children and a wife. After he left his hometown of Hosororo, Region One (Barima-Waini) in search of work at age 16, he did other jobs until he found stable work in Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara, on a chicken farm. Salvadore explained that getting a job in his hometown isn’t easy and that is the only reason he had to leave because the cost of living is very high there. He added that his elderly parents relocated too and they now reside in the Friendship Squatting Area where they are trying to make a living, as well. The 41-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is not very comfortable, but he has to work because he has six school-age children depending on him to provide for them. Salvadore has been residing at Garden of Eden

for the past 20 years, where he works on the large chicken farm in Second Street which has 60,000 chickens in nine large pens which are owned by a businessman, who is also a resident of Garden of Eden. “I left my village and came here, going to have a better life, and I am trying because I would like to have my own plot of land, but I have to earn and this job is it for now,” he said. He has the help of four other employees but it is a full-time job that starts early in the morning and goes late into the night. Salvadore reported that starting over from ‘scratch’ isn’t an easy task; it is an uphill challenge and one he is still adjusting to date. “Life is okay, life is what you make of it; it can be hard or easy, it is up to you, and I came here and I never found it hard because I work honestly to make ends meet,” he said. The Pepperpot Magazine also met Roland Benjamin, who lives and work in Second Street, Garden of Eden. He disclosed that he is employed on one of the

chicken farms and although it is close to his house, he uses a bicycle to get to and from the location because walking can get him tired by the time he reaches the farm. The 64-year-old reported that he like most villagers, who are not self-employed have no option but to work on these chicken farms though they wish the pay could be better “The cost of living is high and we have to work, I am trying to hold onto this job though,” he said. Benjamin stated that he has a family to maintain a family and he has a monthly rent of $10,000 per month with other expenses. He noted that the road is more than two miles long and the poultry farms are owned by business people, most of whom reside right in the community.

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OMETIME back, in one of my classes at the University of Guyana, a lecturer of mine was discussing the importance of Social Capital. That term left an impact in this mind of mine-- a mind that is creative, always thirsty for new information and ways of self-improvement. As someone who loves to dabble in the field of art for both business and relaxation, I started to realise how important this fancy term ‘Social Capital’ can be. In case you did not know already, Social Capital is the value that comes from social interactions and networking. Think of it as the positive outcome that comes out of human interactions. Now, did you note that word before? A small but im-

Having ‘links’ can sometimes be a good thing

pactful word it is—networking! If by chance, you’re interested in expansive methods of yourself, small business, art, ideas, initiatives and even views, then networking is very important. In Guyanese terms, we may even refer to networking as having “links.” However, there’s usually a misconception of having “links”. Many see it as just knowing persons in “high offices” and calling them for a favour or two when you need it. It can also be seen as an abuse of power but remember, Social Capital is the positive outcome human interactions produce. Hence, having “links” can be a good thing if it’s for the right reasons. Networking or “linkage” is more than just knowing someone. It is interacting with people while developing/building your profession-

al and social ties with them or people they may know. A good “networker” equates to a good listener. If it’s one thing that I’ve learned, it’s

will sense your energy and it can blossom into a beautiful interaction. You should also be approachable; in the sense where people will want to

that people love to be heard, but they never want to listen. If by chance, you take a step back and listen to others and their opinions as well, they

speak and have a conversation with you. Another tip for good networking is to be honest and also your authentic self; be true to who

zine recently. Things took a turn for the better when in May, Faith worked during the Carnival festival and received some really good reviews. As such, Faith decided to apply when the Ministry of Culture sent out a public notice calling for makeup artists, fashion designers and the like for the February Jubilee celebrations.

cessfully received and that she was selected to work in the Jubilee celebrations. “My role in February is to provide makeup services to all the models that will be

the event. Apart from making up faces, Faith has tried the Halloween art and wants to toy with different forms of the skill.

https://research.stlouisfed.org/publications/employment-research/how-does-networking-affect-your-job-search

you are and your word. No one wants to form a healthy professional tie with a liar, at least not that I know of. Lastly, you need to be very social to be successful at networking. Attend dinner parties, expositions and social gatherings that relate to your interests. Utilise your social media outlets to your advantage and be sure to find creative ways such as business cards, flyers, social media pages, advertisements, etc. to promote your ideas. It is also important to note that you should also offer to help others in whatever way you can. ‘Giving’ is just as important as ‘receiving.’ Networking opens new doors of opportunities, it gives you an array of options to choose from, it promotes your brand or the idea you stand for/against; puts you and your brand in the spot-

light; it opens you up to new ideas and it can even give you an opportunity to help others like yourself in the process. Networking does not also necessarily mean meeting new people. You can start with your circle of friends and use that old “linkage” phrase; ‘tell a friend to tell a friend.’ We’re all connected by the people we know in some way or the other. I like to think of the term “links” as a chain, a chain that is created by the bonds we make. Our success can be highly dependent on how strong or weak that chain is. An old African proverb was worded to say, “if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.” How do you plan on gaining your Social Capital? Are you ready to network and have links?

Faith is hoping that her job as a beautician will expand to the point where it will no longer qualify as a side job, but as a second job.

pressed. Now, she works only by appointments. She has a station at the Modfin’s Salon at Church and Thomas Street, and would even make home calls as well. “I am proud of myself. Every day after practice, it becomes easier, and the perfection is coming to come.” Faith teaches at South Ruimveldt Secondary School, and is mom to fiveyear-old Shaquir Samfè Perreira.

Perfecting her craft ―Newly trained MUA selected to work in upcoming Jubilee celebrations

Faith Harding

By Telesha Ramnarine

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OR just about a year now, 24-yearold Faith Harding has been dabbling in the world of makeup. Looking at YouTube tutorials and observing the work of Guyana’s own m a k e u p a r t i s t s w e re enough to make her try on her own. Faith has been a mathematics teacher for the past six years and thought that she might be able to a beautician part-time. So she began posting her work on Facebook. “In January, I got the most likes and I told myself I need to make some money on this. So I started to invest in it,” Faith recalled during an interview with the Pepperpot Maga-

Faith will be providing makeup services to models participating in the Jubilee celebrations

“I’m into fashion, makeup artistry, not just to make you look pretty, but also the art. You know some persons can make you up and make it seem like you have a black eye? That’s where I am headed, Faith wants her beautician job to become her second job theatre wise or movie wise. “They sent out a public participating. I will also be If you’re doing a movie notice via Facebook and my able to showcase my booth shoot, or featuring abuse, mom saw it and told me I with my talent. I will have you may not want pretty. I should be a part of it. They my own models, and will dabbled a bit in the Halloware having a fashion show, be doing simple tutorials on een art but I am hoping by and in fashion, makeup goes how to do your face,” she January to start working on hand in hand.” said. that. I want to feature it in Faith is happy that Faith also wants to the February jubilee,” she her application was suc- launch her own scarf line at said.

MAKEUP IS EXPENSIVE Apart from looking at many YouTube channels, Faith admires local makeup artist Natasha Sealey whom she said does great work. One of the things that made her interested in the field is the thought of how much she would have to pay to get her face done. “I found out that doing makeup is quite expensive and having to go to somebody to get your face done every time is costly. So I decided to start trying on my own,” s h e e x -

Faith has been a Mathematics teacher for the past six years

Naya Zamana 23 –Zindagi Express to return to NCC

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

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HE thrilling and astonishing performances in Naya Zamana 23 – Zindagi Express will be done all over again in February when the show is put on again by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

- February 8, 2020 - Zindagi Express returns to the stage!!” Director, Dr. Vindhya Persaud announced recently. Naya Zamana 23 had thrilled its audience with several breathtaking dance performances and a script that Dr. Persaud said was unlike

features dance in various styles, drama and music. It is also known for its amazing backdrops and costumes. The show, which has received critical acclaim and awards, provides an opportunity for students of the Dharmic Sanskritik Kendra,

Cast members of Naya Zamana 23 - Zindagi Express

Dancers are not permitted to perform on stage until they have reached a certain level of perfection

The show, originally held last August, will be returning to the National Culture Center (NCC) on Saturday, February 8, 2020. The 2020 edition of the show will be held later in the year, around August. “If you missed it or want to see it again, save the date

any that she’d ever written before! The show boasts an original storyline, a great cast, fabulous costumes, amazing backdrops and lighting. Naya Zamana is the signature dance production of the ‘Dharmic Sabha,’ and is a theatrical spectacle which

who are taught free of charge in Kathak and other dance styles, to showcase what they have learnt. The dance troupe that performs at Naya Zamana is called the Dharmic Nritya Sangh, and has performed extensively in Guyana as well as

in New York, Toronto, Trinidad, Barbados and St. Lucia. Among their most notable performances were those done at CARIFESTA (The Caribbean Festival of Arts), CARICOM Heads of Government Conferences, The Rio Summit, Naya Zamana and various other national events in Guyana. The presentation of Ramlila in dance drama form in April 2009 was another major success for the group. Naya Zamana, meaning “New World” or “New Generation,” started in 1994 when a group of young people, headed by Dr. Persaud, decided to put on a dance show at the ‘Dharmic Kendra.’ The response was so encouraging that the friends thought of putting on another show; this time at the NCC. Dr. Persaud, now the director, choreographer, producer and scriptwriter of the show, had said in an interview that the first NCC show was good enough to win it that year’s ‘National Theatre Award’ and ‘Best Dance and Costume’ Award. Each year, she said she aims to add fresh choreographies and different energies to make the show more appealing. Dr. Persaud has managed to find young people with amazing talent from all across Guyana. “I teach them from scratch and when we notice potential, we hone it until they get to that point where they are ready to go on stage. When they step on stage, you will swear you are somewhere else,” she explained. Elements of drama have been added to the show, which once featured dance only. Dr. Persaud views training as an important factor and is a firm believer in solid classical training.

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“All of the students who are on stage have learnt classical dancing and they start from as early as six years old, so they would have grown up in Naya Zamana. I believe in things like body control, proper form, un-

derstanding the stage; and I am passionate about synchrony and precision. They have grown up with me and know that discipline is a big thing. I am never satisfied with mediocrity, and they know this.”

Amisha Sarjoo was Anaya in the original show that was held last August

Creative Director of Naya Zamana and President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

English Sunday, December 29, 2019

STUDY SUCCESS

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Dear Student, t is a good thing to interact with at least one trusted and knowledgeable study partner especially if you currently still lack confidence in writing. Interaction awakens in you the hitherto unknown reality that reading, speaking, and listening (discussion techniques) aid the writing process. Discussion builds confidence, especially in a trusted situation. With writing practise and constructive feedback, you will become more confident to face your written examinations. Let perseverance be your revision watchword. Love you. IMPROVING YOUR WRITING Describing from a Vantage Point Let us now turn our attention specifically to descriptive writing from a vantage point. Look at these statements from two authorities: One: A vantage point in writing refers to a position or standpoint from which something is viewed or considered: From our vantage point in the 21st century it is difficult to imagine life without computers. Two: A position or place that provides a wide or advantageous perspective: to survey a valley from the vantage point of a hill. So it is that a writer of description needs a location from which he observes or considers a scene. He must either describe from a stationary vantage point or, if the scene continually changes, from a moving vantage point where all aspects of the scene are described. The writer of the passage below describes a scene from a stationary vantage point, a mountain backdrop. See how he describes the view from each compass point in turn, first from the west, then south and north, leaving east for last. The view is open and perfect in all directions except to the west where the ground rises and the skyline is only a few hundred yards away. Looking forward to the mountains I can see the dark gorge of the Colorado River five or six miles away, carved through the sandstone mesa, though nothing of the river itself down inside the gorge. Southward, on the far side of the river, lies the Moab valley between thousand-foot walls of rock, with the town of Moab somewhere on the valley floor, too small to be seen from here. Beyond the Moab valley is more canyon

and tableland stretching away to the Blue Mountains fifty miles south. On the north and northwest, I see the Roan Cliffs and the Book Cliffs, the two-level face of the Uinta Plateau…. To the east, under the spreading sunrise, are more mesas, more canyons, league on league of red cliff and arid tablelands, extending through purple haze over the bulging curve of the planet to the ranges of Colorado – a sea of desert. (Edward Abbey, “The Most Beautiful Place on Earth”)

THOUGHT for TODAY Infidelity does not consist in believing, or in disbelieving, it consists in professing to believe what one does not believe. TOM PAINE (1737-1809) The Age of Reasoning (1794), Pt. I C. finds fault with everything. D. ends up in the poorhouse. 2. What best describes the tone of this passage? A. optimistic B. frivolous C. pessimistic D. critical

About the Passage The writer distinctly uses words which give the reader a clear sense of direction. Underline them and then point them out to your study partner. Discuss the importance of this approach, and its insight for your own writing.

3. What is not the best interpretation for the word “glorious” in glorious hours? A. A time to magnify the Lord B. A time to make merry C. A time to swear and curse D. A time to be happy for just being alive

SOMETHING TO DO Write the description of a carefully chosen place: a small town, village, or hinterland sight-seeing attraction or landscape. Consider viewing from a long-distance bus or river cruise, a hillside spot, or whichever vantage point suits your topic for reader interest.

4. What statement best summarises the main idea of the passage? A. It’s better to be rich than poor. B. Life is always very pleasant. C. It’s better to be poor than rich. D. It is your choice to be happy.

Some helpful point to consider seriously in your plan of things: 1. Selection of different scenes of interest 2. Chronological order 3. Well-chosen transitional words and phrases READING How well do you read at this time? Read the passage. Then read each question about the passage. Choose an answer to each question. However mean your life is, meet it and live it; do not shun it and call it hard times. It is not so bad as you are thinking. It looks poorest when you are richest. The faultfinder will find faults even when in paradise. Love your life, poor as it is. You may perhaps have some pleasant, thrilling, glorious hours, even in the poorhouse. The setting sun is reflected from the windows of the poorhouse as brightly as from the rich man’s abode; the snow melts before its door as early in the spring. 1. According to the passage, a “faultfinder” A. usually is happy. B. never fixes things.

Discover Your Mastery Language Usage in sentences Write the standard form for each sentence. Try to point out the substandard usage. 1. The brown and white ponies was driven too much at the playground. 2. Michael did not sing too good at the Champion of Champions contest. 3. This particular information is just for Francis and I. 4. She failed this time around. She must have pull the wrong string. 5. Peppy peeped through the keyhole and declared he did not see nothing. 6. Carmelita were waiting for her First Term Spanish score. 7. The group hurried passed the haunted house and never looked back. 8. Gregory didn’t make no attempt to rectify his daughter’s horrible situation. 9. The toy haven’t got any batteries. They need to be bought separately. 10. You and me seem to be the only witnesses to this horrible crime, Sheldon.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― December 29, 2019

Sorrel Drink

Ingredients ● 2 pound(s) sorrel ● 1 ounce(s) ginger ● 1 piece(s) dried orange peel ● 6 whole cloves ● 12 cup(s) boiling water ● 2 cup(s) sugar ● 1/4 cup(s) white rum (optional) ● 1 cup(s) red wine (optional) ● A few grains of rice ● Sorrel Drink

Directions ● Wash sorrel, crush or grate ginger. ● Place sorrel, ginger, orange peel and cloves in a stainless steel container. ● Pour on boiling water, cover and leave to infuse for 24 hours. Strain, add sugar, rum and red wine and mix well. ● Pour into bottles adding a few grains of rice to each bottle. NOTE: Allow to remain for at least one day. Serve chilled.

gracefoods.com

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