Guyana_Chronicle_Pepperpot_11_29_2020

‘Guyana must keep up with trending technologies’ – Passionate web developer says old-fashioned thinking kills innovation

Local Web Applications Developer Anton Kwang (Photo courtesy of Anton Kwang)

Sunday, November 29, 2020

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Places and things waiting for an appropriate name By Francis Quamina Farrier

British Guiana, for example, a small portion of the Potaro River downstream from the Kaieteur Falls was christened THERE are quite a number of places and things, many “Garraway Stream.” It was so named to the honour of which are public property here in Guyana, which are the popular Berbice-born cricketer of the day, Patrick waiting to be given a proper name or a change of name. Garraway. At that point of the Potaro where Way back in colonial the river is sort of flowing serenely after tumbling 741 feet over the Kaieteur’s lip, one g-g lon the ve Coast, Region Two. Obser rier) Far there is a bridge over peace. s Q nci Anna Regina, Essequibo Fra by oto the far distance (Ph ful waters. The Denham Sugar Factory chimney in Suspension Bridge spans the Potaro along the 111-mile trail from Bartica to Mahdia. Constructed in 1933, the Denham Suspension Bridge was named for the English Governor Sir Edward Denham whose tour of duty in the colony was from 1930 to 1935. There are many other bridges in present-day Guyana which could be given names; bridges over the Abary, Mahaicony and Mahaica rivers, for example. There is also the bridge over the Canje river which is now

known as the Canje bridge. Then there are the two bridges over the Demerara River; at Peter’s Hall and at Linden for consideration. New Amsterdam set the tone some years ago by naming two streets to former presidents of the country - “Cheddi Jagan” and “L.F.S. Burnham.” While there is the Arthur Chung Conference Center on the lower East Coast Demerara, I am not aware of anything named for Presidents Desmond Hoyte, Samuel Hinds, Janet Jagan, Bharrat Jagdeo, Donald Ramotar or David Granger. There is the “Matthew Allen Road” in New Amsterdam. Named for the popular radio personality, the road leading from the Strand in New Amsterdam to the Berbice River ferry was in a deplorable state for a very long time. During that period Matthew Allen would advocate almost daily for its repair while doing his morning radio show. When the work was finally completed, the road was named for Matthew Allen. After the Berbice ferry service was terminated when the Berbice River Bridge came into service, a new stretch of road was constructed which leads off from the Palmyra See Page XVIII

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

‘Guyana must keep up with trending technologies’

– Passionate web developer says old-fashioned thinking kills innovation

By Telesha Ramnarine IT seemed to Anton Kwang that he had it all sorted out as to what career path he’d pursue. Growing up, like the typical teenager, he wanted to study medicine. He went after his goals fervently and eventually found great success. But what would cause the 33-year-old to make a drastic change in career paths? What could become so much more interesting to him that would make him switch things up to the point of abandoning a top position at a well-established local company? Well, today, he said he has no regrets about his decision. In fact, his new job as a web applications developer and consultant caught the attention of overseas professionals to the extent that he was featured in the prestigious Forbes Magazine. Food Technologist vs. Web Developer Having completed his

ogy, and spent most of my professional career in that field and loved every bit of it,” he expressed during an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine. However, during his time there, he became involved in implementing innovative solutions that fell within his job functions, one of which was designing and implementing digital systems to improve operational efficiency. It was during this period that he really got into DATA and analytics in general, and with the encouragement and help of a good friend, began a little tech startup in 2017 called HESC Power Dash Analytics. The main focus of that startup was to help empower organisations with paper-based systems to use digital solutions to manage their businesses. He also focused a lot on Oracle Technologies, particularly their APEX Development platform, which is his chief tool these days. In little over a year, An-

work, but he opted to take the harder decision to quit. “I noticed that there was a real need for organisations to transition to digital solutions. And the more I worked for different clients, my passion and zeal grew for the field. I asked myself which position would help me have a more positive influence in society,” Anton recalled. Now in a position to implement systems that are of national benefit, he feels fully satisfied that he can make a difference in helping others. “That’s where the satisfaction comes from; knowing that you’ve contributed to a project that could positively impact a lot of people.” Finding Digital Solutions Apart from his business clients, Anton and quite a few others in the tech environment have been volunteering their services to different organisations, including government ministries and agencies to help

CHEM: Anton Kwang

studies in Chemistry at the University of Guyana in 2009, Anton had the goal of becoming a Food Technologist. After graduating with a BSc. in Chemistry, he worked for several years with Edward B. Beharry & Co. Limited where he was promoted to several top positions until he left last January. “I was and still am really fascinated with food technol-

ton progressed and increased his knowledge in coding and began implementing systems with various clients, both in the public and private sectors. In early 2020, he finally decided to resign as Factory Manager to go full time into applications development. The safe decision would’ve been to stay put in his employment, especially as it offered him stability and sure

them make a shift from their archaic way of doing things. While many are still hesitant to make changes, Anton is continuing to make an effort to infiltrate areas of society that can very well benefit from digitised systems. “The pandemic has forced us to rethink the way we do business; a lot of businesses were forced to find some sort of digital solution to the way they do business.

“It goes to show that there are solutions out there and Guyana in a sense is lagging in terms of keeping up with trending technology. People are so accustomed to doing things the old-fashioned way and with this type of thinking, it really kills innovation,” he said. Anton says it bothers him to see people bypassing the local ‘tech’ companies to outsource their work with international companies. “But there is so much of raw talent and innovation and ingenuity among our own Guyanese.” Explaining how he landed a space in Forbes Mag-

azine, Anton said Oracle, a huge tech company, has a platform that he uses called Apex Development Platform and that’s the software that he uses to build his applications. “They were doing a series of how people worldwide are using that software. Why they chose me was because of the impact that technology had on my career and that really got me excited about development,” he said. Being a part of the global community, he was casually discussing what he has been using and the impact of the tech on him personally when someone told him about the

series. “I didn’t study Computer Science. I had a Chemistry background. I was totally foreign to the field, so they reached out to me in hopes that others would be encouraged by it,” he explained. Anton says his zeal and love for the field continues to grow. He has managed to make good friends along the way with persons who have the same vision of changing Guyana for the good, so far as innovative technology is concerned. Together, they represent the local unofficial Oracle APEX community.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

‘I always wanted to be the employer’ - Says 19-year-old entrepreneur

By Telesha Ramnarine NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD Aleeda Desantos says success is a “tricky” thing. She hadn’t the easiest life growing up as after her dad died, her mom had to step in and be the “jack of all trades” to make ends meet for the family. She took in everything that was happening around her, and as young as she was at the time, she drew valuable lessons that continue to help her to this day. In fact, it is the inspiration that came from these situations that pushed her to start up three businesses that are all doing quite well at the moment. “After my father passed away in 2014, leaving just me, my brother and my mother, I watched my mom

to be a jack of all trades to provide for my brother and I. I watched her day after day in awe as she hustled hard for us,” expressed Aleeda during an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine. Despite the circumstances at home, Aleeda was able to gain a place at the prestigious Bishop’s High School after completing her primary education at Greenwich Park, on the East Bank Essequibo (Region Three). Personal circumstances forced her to leave Bishop’s and complete her secondary education at Zeeburg, West Coast Demerara. Even with the challenges, Aleeda did well, emerging with Grades One and Two for the eight subjects that she wrote. Still planning to further her studies the moment she

Eye Candy 592 was launched two weeks ago Aleeda Desantos

has enough money to do so, Aleeda is using her time to build the small businesses that she has started up, hoping that they will eventually provide the funds she needs. “I wanted to be many things while growing up. I was always a very indecisive child. At one point, I wanted to be an air hostess because I loved the thought of travelling to different countries and meeting different people,” she recalled. When she saw her mother’s struggles, though, she thought felt that working for others is not something she’d want to do. “I knew that I didn’t want to work as an employee forever. I wanted to own a business or even businesses. I wanted to be the employer.” To this end, Aleeda worked towards it. Today, her three businesses are Cocktail Culture 592, Eye Candy 592, and One Stop Shop GY. “The feeling is overwhelming. Everything that I’ve had my heart set on doing is now coming to pass slowly but surely. Success is a very tricky thing; you can either squander it or have it grow.” Aleeda is a strong believer that the energy that someone puts out into the world is the same that they will receive. Sharing a few words of advice based on her experience so far, she

says: “Don’t give up on something you’re passionate about just because it’s not happening in your favour as fast as you’d like. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Everything takes time; just be persistent and consistent in whatever you have your heart set on doing. Also, a share, repost or referral costs $0. Hand wash hand mek hand come clean.” A bit of everything

Cocktail Culture 592 was the first business that Aleeda launched last July. It caters to cocktails, Jell-O shots, infused treats and appetizers for all occasions. “Having this COVID-19 pandemic and the curfew, bars and hot spots limited to a few, this was a great idea to have cocktails on delivery. You can’t go to the bar or your favourite chill See Page XX

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

50 years on the block

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Tullahram Dass, your traditional barber By Naomi Parris

income but also a comforter in times of tragedy. Wanting to pass on the tradition Tullah had taught his son the trade and shared his talents with his son. Working along with his son was one of his most prideful and biggest accomplishments. His son he recalled had just completed his secondary education and was gradually walking in his footsteps to make a name for himself in the trade when his life was unfortunately taken away from him by a speeding drunk driver. Shortly after Tullah’s wife also passed away after a long battle with brain cancer. In these times of sorrow and loss, Tullah noted that it was his love for barbering and the appreciation he would receive from his clients that kept him together. Today the chair his son once worked in is occasionally filled by his grandson who he is currently teaching the art of cutting hair.

Some may call him old fashion or even vintage but his way of doing things gets the job done, whether it’s a ‘fade’ or just a simple haircut. Sixty-three-year-old Tullahram Dass is a barber who, for the past 50 years, has never traded in his pair of trusty scissors for the updated electrical razors. Sharing the details of his life, Tullahram popularly known as “Tullah” disclosed that he started barbering as a means of getting by in life to provide for himself, however, he quickly fell in love with the craft. “I was out of school parents were separated and I had to get up and get and start the work early at age 14. I had nobody to look out for me. I had to look out for myself and that is how I start,” he explained. Tullah recalled cutting and grooming people’s hair along the streets of Georgetown before formally working in a bar-

MODERNISATION

Tullahram Dass popularly known as ‘Tullah’ (Samuel Maughn photo)

Pepperpot magazine. The man stated that it is love for the profession and value he has for his customers or client’s appearance that are the reasons why he is considered one of the most senior barbers in the country, and one of the few who mostly use scissors. A SOLACE IN TIME OF TRAGEDY For Tullah, barbering is not only a job and a source of

‘Tullah’ grooming a client

bershop along with his brother-in-law. After working some 22 years in the shop, Tullah decided that it was time for him to start his own enterprise. Once you spot a classic Wolseley, PS 874, parked at Light Street, Alberttown, ‘Tullah’ is most likely in the barber’s shop, doing to a grateful client what he does best. His shop is not one that can be easily missed as it is one with a vintage look and vibe. Passersby and customers can hear the tunes of his pet birds or sounds of the FM radio emanating from the doors and windows indicating that he is open for business. PRESERVING THE TRADITION What really sets him aside from the barbers of today is his ability to do any style and haircut with just his scissors and comb. If one were to sit in his chair, they would surely leave as a brand new person. His love for the art and skillful technique is what keeps his customers from the days of him just being a lad learning a trade coming back. “When I first started, they didn’t have machine so we used to use razor and comb and scissors and comb,” he said. The razor he added “was sharpened on a set stone and then you strap it on a leather but this right now is razor blade.” “In order to become a barber, you have to have love for the profession; a dedication, a passion to please each customer that sits to have themselves groomed,” he told the

Tullah admitted that he does sometimes use the electrical machine; however, his loyalty still belongs to his trusty scissors. “I cutting hair with machine too but the young barbers nowadays now don’t know to use scissors they only know to use strictly machine,” he said. The machine, he added limits, a barber’s talents while the scissors or traditional blade allows for more freedom; however he noted that many of the youngsters today prefer the easier way of doing things. “Young people looking for the easier way out all the trade, carpentry, trade, mason trade is electrical tool all See Page XXII

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

RDC is working for the people in the riverine communities

By Michel Outridge THIS week, the Pepperpot Magazine journeyed over land and sea to visit the riverine villages of Aliki and Beri-Bissiballi/Lanaballi, which are located on the right bank of the Essequibo River, on the mainland. These two communities can be reached via boat about 45 minutes to an hour from Parika and a much shorter distance from Hubu Koker, East Bank Essequibo. These villages are agriculture-based with largescale farmers, poultry and livestock farmers as well as small-business owners and suitably qualified individuals, who work in both the private and public sectors. The Pepperpot Magazine had an interview with Regional Executive Office (REO) for Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Coast Demerara) Jagnarine Somwar, who spoke of the developmental highlights being focused on by the current administration to improve the lives of the villagers. He pointed out that as it relates to Aliki Village, it is home to a multi-ethnic society and the people are mostly farmers, health care professionals, teachers, small-business owners, loggers, miners and fishermen. Somwar related that as REO he was given a presidential directive by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali

to ensure that residents of all riverine communities benefit equally from all basic facilities and services. He disclosed that when the administration of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) took over, the budget cycle the expenditure was already allocated. Somwar added that as such, projects are on stream, but they are awaiting the yearly budget for newer projects to materialise. He reported that the

Village has a primary and nursery school housed in one compound and their main economic activities revolve around fishing, farming and mining. Somwar pointed out that he is aware of the challenges of the riverine people, since their only mode of transportation is by boat and it is costly to travel, since they have to purchase gasoline. He stated that developmental works have been

vided through the regional administration, but recently there was a drug shortage and that has since been rectified. “Like most riverine villages, we depend heavily on the locals for a feedback on

Regional Executive Officer (REO) Jagnarine Somwar

riverine communities have already benefitted from the government’s cash-grant relief of $25,000 per household for COVID-19 and schools are being prepared to be re-opened in January. The REO stated that they have permanent health teams at various checkpoints in the riverine communities. He disclosed that Aliki

planned for Aliki in which repairs to the schools will take place and the playground will be enhanced for recreational purposes. Somwar added that most of the produce from Aliki Village goes to Hubu Koker and it is sold to wholesalers. The official pointed out that the village has a health centre and drugs are pro-

things, since we do not have a physical presence there and we cooperate with the villagers to foster a good relationship in terms of development,” he said. Meanwhile, the REO reported that Beri-Bissiballi Village is next door to Lanaballi and it is a largescale farming community of

The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) building at Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara (Carl Croker photos)

citrus, plantains, bananas, fruits and vegetables. He noted that the residents are predominately Indo-Guyanese and some Indigenous, who are employed on farms. Somwar said Beri-Bissiballi/Lanaballi Village is a relatively large landmass that stretches for miles and it is on the mainland as well. It is located on the right bank of the Essequibo River and is home to about 70 families, who enjoy a scenic life of nature and in relative peace and quiet. This riverine village has a primary school, a nursery school and a health centre and they have more access to Parika and Hubu. Somwar revealed that they have a team moving from Caria Caria to Buckhall for COVID-19 monitoring and testing and for Great Troolie Island, they have had assistance from the NDIA to get dredging equipment on barges where they had landfilling exercises and dredging. He stated that in most riverine communities there are aware of the bat infestation in schools and other government buildings and they will look at that, since

it is not a healthy situation for children. Somwar disclosed that next year a budget will be allocated for riverine communities and an engineer will visit these places to assess the needs of the people, after which the report will be vetted by the councillors. The REO of Region Three is also the Head of the Budget Agency and has the responsibility of the delivery of education, agriculture and public works services and also holds the portfolio as Clerk of the RDC. Somwar is mandated to carry out instructions in the development of the region and is guided by the yearly budget. He is also the Chairman of the Tender Board and was appointed as Region Three REO in August. Before his recent appointment, he was REO for Region Nine and served that region for three years. “The country is on the move with this government and Region Three is on the move as well, and he is willing to work with residents of the communities for enhanced development, since he is most answerable to the people,” he said.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Beri-Bissiballi/Lanaballi farmers welcome development of riverine communities By Michel Outridge RAMROOP Rampersaud is one of many farmers of Beri-Bissiballi\Lanaballi and he makes the journey to Parika Market every Sunday to sell his produce. The 58-year-old explained that he is originally from Bartica but is residing at Lanaballi and plants sweet figs, yams, ginger and plantains, which are his main sources of income. Rampersaud said he sells only on Sundays because he has to tend to his farm and he doesn’t have much time on his hands.

Looknarine Persaud called “Scott”

that he, like other farmers, suffered tremendous losses when they had a squall which destroyed 10 acres

Kishore Benny

The father of two stated that life in the riverine community is nice, once one is prepared to work hard to enjoy a good life. “We use what we produce and we ‘make-do’ with the fish and meats we get from right within the village, we don’t buy fruits and vegetables at all because we plant and use it for our everyday meals,” he said. Rampersaud reported that they would offload their produce at Parika Stelling on Sundays to go to sell and there is no proper facility to do so, yet they have to pay a $500 offloading fee per person. The farmer stated that it is challenging to get their produce out via boat because of the changing tides and when the boat is heavy they have to go slowly. Rampersaud disclosed

of bananas and he would be grateful if central government can assist with weedicides, seedlings, seeds and

Rampersaud explained that they have stop logs controlled by culverts which drain the water off the land and they do not suffer from flooding. The Poultry farmer Another farmer, Kishore Benny, told the Pepperpot Magazine that it would be good if they can have a dialogue with members of the current administration to foster better relations and development of the riverine communities. The 58-year-old pointed out that they are thankful they received the government’s cash grant COVID-19 relief of $25,000 per household. The father of two explained that they need the

Ramroop Rampersaud

fertiliser. He is, however, thankful that they have good drainage and irrigation which drains the water into the Essequibo River.

leases for the lands they occupy and they have a lot of difficulties making a living. Benny is a poultry See Page XIX

Residents of Beri-Bissiballi and Lanaballi (Carl Croker photos)

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Citrus farmer advocates for better market for his perishable produce By Michel Outridge

DHANEERAN Mangal is a large-scale citrus farmer of Beri-Bissiballi Village, located on the right bank of the Essequibo River, Region Three (Essequibo

Islands/West Demerara) but he is not getting markets for his citrus; as such, hundreds of oranges, limes, lemons and tangerines are going to waste. A guided tour of a part of his farm revealed dozens of

the fallen fruits rotting, since Mangal doesn’t have a ready market for his produce. The 59-year-old reported that he is originally from Lanaballi, the neighbouring village, but moved to Beri-Bissiballi where he cur-

Dhaneeran Mangal on his farm

Mangal told the Pepperpot Magazine that Beri-Bissiballi Village has 45 families, all of whom depend heavily on farming to earn.

He started the pollination of Africanised bees in August and he has harvested some honey from his home-made beehives.

plicity and hard work as were his parents and fore-parents and he comes from a long

“They plant mostly yams, sweet figs, plantains, pumpkins and cash crops here

The farmer pointed out that he would buy seedlings from the National Agricul-

line of farmers. Mangal also has a few acres of sweet fig bananas which is often referred to as “Parika Bananas” and some coconuts. His wife and youngest son reside at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, while his eldest son lives in a house next door to his cottage.

because of the soil composition, but getting the produce out is a challenge and the market isn’t readily available, since there is a flood on the market,” he said. Mangal is now trying his hand at bee-keeping and has an apiary and will see how that goes, since he is still in the learning stage.

tural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and he is one of the seedless lime producers and would have to journey to Parika, West Coast Demerara and in the city to sell his produce since it is perishable. Mangal said they go

rently resides and has his cultivation. The father of two stated that he is accustomed to the traditional way of life of sim-

Dhaneeran Mangal’s farm (Carl Croker photos)

See Page XXI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020 Ashane Alli

Joan Conway

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The people of Aliki Village lead simple, resourceful lives

By Michel Outridge

THE scenic riverine community of Aliki Village has a mixture of people of all ethnicities, making it a very blended village. One such person is Joan Conway, a mother of eight, who is a farmer and has been residing at Aliki for the past 25 years. She is originally from Fort Island, also in the Essequibo River, but relocated many years ago through marriage. Conway, who was at the Aliki Community Health Centre with one of her sons for medical attention, stated that the people utilise the limited resources they have, but they need some development within the village. For instance, they need a paved walkway because when it rains the place is muddy and very slippery, she said. She is a large-scale ground provision and bananas farmer, who reported that accessing her farm via the creek when the water is high is easier and when it dries up, they have to walk for many miles. Conway added that her husband and a son would

also assist her on the farm and they would take out produce every fortnight at Hubu Koker to be sold. “Quite recently, they had

making it inaccessible until a chain saw is sourced to cut up the tree to clear the creek for boats to go to the farms. Conway noted that when

things have scaled down a lot and they are unable to travel and are mostly at home and even the children are getting a bit bored,” she said. Conway has four schoolage children and she lives about one and a half miles away from the Aliki Community Health Centre. The village shop keeper

Vibert English (Carl Croker photos)

a squall which came with heavy winds and rain which caused all their crops to be flattened and destroyed,” she said. The farmer disclosed that at times the large Mora trees would fall in the creek,

the creek is dry she would have to walk about 60 miles to get to her farm; and it is quite a challenge and to top it off, they have an acoushi ants problem which is eating away their crops. “Due to the pandemic

Meanwhile, another resident, Vibert English, who was engaged in some construction work at his home told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is a farmer, who also has a small shop. The father of six related that the people of Aliki Village are simple and they are very hardworking and spend a lot of time on their farms in the backlands area of the community. English pointed out that the village needs a bit of a boost in terms of an ICT hub for the schoolchildren to be stimulated, since they have

been at home for months now due to the pandemic. “About 50 families live here and we are mostly farmers, who make a living even with many challenges and we try to stay afloat,” he said. The community teacher Village teacher Ashane Alli told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is attached to the Aliki Primary School and has been residing there since 2010. She relocated as a result of marriage and is now a mother of four, who was at the time distributing schoolchildren’s school uniform vouchers of $4,000 per child to parents at the school. The 29-year-old pointed out that she has a class of 32 pupils and has been reaching out to them at the school in small groups to lend support, while they complete the Ministry of Education worksheets. “After spending two

years at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) I became a qualified teacher patterned after my mother and sister. I fell in love with the job and more so, the simple country life, of the riverine community,” she said. Alli’s husband is a farmer and he would often hunt and the wild meat is used in the home; he also does some fishing when it is banga season. She reported that the school is multi-grade and last year the secondary students were removed and directed to the Bartica Secondary School. Alli said that the village needs electricity and potable water supply to enhance their lives and also an ICT hub to boost their learning capacity. From the look of things, even with many shortfalls, Alli is making the most of the resources as a teacher to promote distant learning during the pandemic.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

The Village Leader

Serving the people of Aliki Village while wearing many hats By Michel Outridge As leader/chairman of the community and the health worker, Roy Crighton of Aliki Village, located on the right bank of the Essequibo River is utilising the resources at hand to serve the people and provide healthcare services to the best of his ability.

cently they have been experiencing a lot of rainy conditions and they have had cases with flu-like symptoms that are associated with seasonal illness. Crighton added that with the pandemic they have all health protocols in place and he has been doing his bit to promote handwashing practices and also sensitise villagers of the novel Coro-

keep their crops healthy but a check sluice is needed. Crighton pointed out that the current koker isn’t functioning for the past six years and the farmers have a lot of challenges access their farms and getting their produce out. He disclosed that Aliki Village also needs potable water supply and mostly rainfall water is used for

Aliki Village.

He has been the Community Health Worker for the past 20 years and is also the Chairman of the village Land Coop Society, for just a year now. Crighton reported that they have a tide system and when the water is low they cannot travel to take out

The resident of Aliki Village stated that the people of the village are mainly of mixed race with just about 200 people, whose livelihood comes from farming. He pointed out that re-

navirus COVID-19. The Community Health Worker related that with Aliki Village being a farming community they depend on the rainfall and water irrigation system via the canal to

Centre which is in dire need of repairs,” he said. Crighton told the Pepperpot Magazine that at the Aliki Community Health Centre they offer primary health care services with a five-day a week schedule. Being the lone employee

consumption and cooking. The father of four told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is originally from Hog Island, also in the Essequibo River but relocated to Aliki Village many years ago. Community Health Worker, Roy Crighton.

Aliki Community Health Centre.

their produce via boat. He disclosed that the youths of high school age often leave the village to attend secondary schools further afield and it has caused the migration of many families. Crighton stated that with the limited facilities the youths do engage in cricket and football at the small playground at the back of the school. “We need the boat landing to be extended, a working sluice to control the drainage system and the renovation of the Health

of the facility he has a ‘tall’ order to fulfil and it was evident during the team’s visit. He has to see patients, dispense drugs and do everything that needs to be done to keep the health centre operational. Crighton revealed that he would often see a lot of patients with cold and flu, vomiting and diarrhoea and at present, there is a drug shortage at the health centre and is trying with limited supplies. He pointed out that Morashee Village is the nearest health centre and at Aliki

Community Health Centre they offer services in ante-natal, out-patient, child health and chronic diseases clinic. The Community Health Worker reported that they have three churches in the village and it provides a place of worship for the locals. Crighton stated that the young people between the ages of 14 to 20 years old also benefit from a training programme offered by the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) in boat building and small boat engine repairs. He disclosed that some young men have left the village in search of work in the interior while, others remain. Crighton stated that the children need an ICT hub since they need access to a reliable cell phone network. “We are, however, thankful to miner, Dave Scott for providing a boat and engine for the school children to get to and from schools and it is a blessing to this village and we, the people appreciate it very much,” he said. Crighton also reported that an all-weather walkway is needed because when it rains the place is very muddy. He, like many residents of Aliki Village, is very grateful for the government’s COVID-19 cash grant relief of $25,000 per household. The village has four teachers and they promote learning with worksheets in small groups despite the pandemic.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Finding community and considering domestic violence

OVER the past few months within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been reported that there has been an increase in domestic violence. Experts posit that the loss of livelihoods; the strain of being on ‘lockdown’, and the limited access to sufficient safety nets contribute to this. It is becoming increasingly apparent to me that providing spaces

for dialogue helps to build solidarity, which may allow us to play a greater role in community-building and providing support. Recently, I attended a Jahajee Sisters’ summit, which was an international platform for the empowerment of Indo-Caribbean women. And it was during the few sessions I was able to attend (because strong WiFi is not apparently a real thing), that

I realised that there are certain ‘norms’ and stereotypes within the Indo community which are, perhaps, antithetical to the elimination of domestic violence. During the opening forum of the summit, Trinidadian gender affairs activ Renelle White related that while there is an increasing feminist consciousness among Caribbean women (not just Indo-Caribbe-

an women), within the Indo-community, there were still deeply entrenched expectations for women to be submissive, docile and remain married to one partner. The other participants at this forum also discussed the “shame” that acting in contravention of these norms brings to an Indo-Caribbean woman. There is even shame in speaking up and speaking out; the Indo-Caribbean culture is seemingly premised on ‘airing dirty laundry’ within the family. Speaking only for myself, as a young Indo-Guyanese, these are all norms I grew up hearing and seeing within my family and social spaces. And I believe that this “shame” prevents many women from seeking help when they are abused. But it was interesting to also learn that this shame is not isolated to Indo-Guyanese women. During the summit, I told a few of my friends about what the women discussed, and during my rants, my friends told me that the shame that comes with speaking up and speaking out actually existed -- and existed quite prominently -- within the Afro-Guyanese community, as well. This struck me because I am increasingly learning about all the ways we isolate and our experiences from each other, but maybe, we face more similar experiences than we know. A 2019 study conducted by a few internation-

al agencies, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), contended that a reason for the increased violence among Indo-Guyanese populations relates to gender stereotypes about ethnic communities. “Indo-Guyanese men are thought to be more controlling of their partners than Afro-Guyanese and indigenous men. In addition, Indo-Guyanese women are thought to be subservient, and Afro-Guyanese women to be more outspoken,” the study said. However, a snippet from an interview with a male police officer highlighted that violence is now being recorded across ethnic groups, and no longer just largely recorded within the “East Indian” community. Though newspaper reports of domestic violence seem to indicate that there are more Indo-Guyanese women affected, I have not found any quantitative data illustrating that domestic violence (and intimate-partner violence, more specifically) is more prevalent among Indo-Guyanese women. The 2019 study related that though violence occurs along ethnic lines, it may manifest in different ways. The unequal power relations between members of the household, structural determinants, and other intermediary factors such as intergenerational violence and alcohol and drug misuse are also perceived to increase

the risk of experiencing or perpetrating violence. The conversation on domestic violence seems to be more widespread currently, because of the observance of the ‘16 days against gender-based violence,’ but more importantly, because of the women who are increasingly at risk because of the ramifications of this pandemic. I think about how much more could be done to support vulnerable groups-- women and children, in particular. And I think about how understanding the nuanced perceptions of domestic violence could help inform better (and more comprehensive) strategies to combat this issue. I think about how spaces like the Jahajee Sisters’ summit provide avenues for dialogue -- to just speak about those things which we have been experiencing and to find community and solidarity. I think about how dialogue could lead to more dialogue, which could make connections not noticeable before and widen our communities even more. And through it all, we could recognise what destructive norms and perceptions are and realise how we could support each other to rid ourselves of this scourge of violence and adequately support our vulnerable people. If you would like to discuss this column or any of my previous writings, please feel free to contact me via email: vish14ragobeer@gmail.com

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

XIII

Indigenous People and Traditional Knowledge

INDIGENOUS communities around the world are constantly struggling to maintain their rights, their traditions and their knowledge. They face the challenge of living in two worlds -- the indigenous and the non-indigenous one, in constant tension with each

other, with the latter having more power in shaping the former. For centuries, indigenous populations have suffered from invasion and oppression, and oftentimes they have seen their knowledge eclipsed by western knowledge and imposed on them through western institutions. Yet, indigenous populations have managed to survive for centuries, adapting in many different ways to adverse climatic conditions and managing to create sustainable-livelihood systems. Their diverse forms of knowledge, deeply rooted in their relationships with the environment as well as in cultural cohesion, haveallowed many of these communities to maintain a sustainable use and management of natural resources, to protect their environment and to enhance their resilience; their ability to observe, adapt and mitigate has helped many indigenous communitiesface new and complex circumstances that have often severely impacted their way of living and their territories. What is traditional knowledge? Traditional or local knowledge refers to the knowledge and know-how unique to a given society or culture, which encompasses “the cultural traditions, values, beliefs, and world views of local people” including specific beliefs, rules and taboos that are part of the customary law of a specific group. Indigenous knowledge is therefore vital for the survival of the historical and cultural heritage of a particular group, as it “forms its backbone of social, economic, scientific and technological identity.” Promoting the integration of TK at the national level ‘Integrating Traditional Knowledge into National Policies and Practices’ is a project that is currently being implemented in Guyana. It is a Darwin Initiative project which commenced in 2017 and runs to March 2021. The EPA, being a partner from the inception, is especially supportive of the work being undertaken since it aligns directly with goals/targets associated with the Convention for Biological Diversity (CBD), to which Guyana is a signatory and the agency is the focal point. The project specifically addresses the CBD’s Aichi Biodiversity Target 18, which speaks to the need for traditional knowledge to be better respected through national policy. The project promotes the effective participation of Indigenous peoples in decision-making. Other partners include the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, the North Rupununi District Development Board, the Protected Areas Commission, Kanuku Mountains Community Representative Group and South-Central Peoples Develop-

ment Association. Through this project, activities are being executed that pilot a model which promotes increased and effective dialogue between indigenous peoples and decision makers through the use of participatory video techniques. Additionally, activities also focus on building institutional capacity to encourage and promote the integration of traditional knowledge and perhaps more significantly, the development of a Traditional Knowledge National Action Plan (TKNAP) for Guyana. From the very inception, the project has been engaging several indigenous communities (associated with protected areas) to facilitate discussions; for example, around the value of traditional knowledge to Protected Areas Management, the challenges associated with changes to the use of certain traditional knowledge/ practices, and identifying key areas that need urgent attention as it relates to its preservation.

Stakeholder engagement has also included government agencies to assess their level of awareness of traditional knowledge and to determine the current level of integration, based on a review of their regulations and policies. These discussions and analyses have contributed significantly to the TKNAP drafting process. For more information on the project visit https://cobracollective.org/news/community-engagement-in-the-north-rupununi-guyana/ You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

XIV LE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 4, 2020

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 4, 2020

ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF SAFER ROADS

SOME USES OF PEPPERMINT OIL

ON Sunday, November 15, the United Nations World Day for the Remembrance of Road Traffic Victims was commemorated under the theme “ Remember; Support; Act” and Ministries of Government and other bodies involved in Road Safety participated. These included Office of the President, Ministry of Home Affairs, the Police, Ministry of Health, PAHO/WHO, the National Road Safety Council and Ms Denise Dias’ Mothers in Black. In the OME last twomonths decades,ago, wellthis overcolumn 100 persons per year carried an lose their lives in traffic accidents and scores of others article on mint. The article treated mint suffer as a

S

folk medicine, but did make some reference to peppermint oil. In this offering, we will be dealing with approximately 20 uses of peppermint oil and although the uses identified are different, the treatment tends to be similar. We would however not try to consolidate, but would deal with every use and its treatment individually. Peppermint is derived from a species of herb, mint, which has over 20 varieties, but the two varieties most known are peppermint and spearmint. The main component of these mint species is menthol. Peppermint oil, which has more menthol than spearmint, is extracted from the peppermint plant. Peppermint oil was used for thousands of years and was known among the Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Indians. Indeed, it is still an important item in modern Chinese pharmacopeia. Two Chinese produced peppermint-based products, Shiling Oil and Tiger Balm, are well known and widely used in Guyana. Although peppermint oil was known and used in the 19th century by Western countries (even in producing other medicines), it was only in the last few generations that intensive research on it had been done. Such research found that peppermint oil could bring relief to several kinds of ailments including digestive problems, bacterial infection, inflammation, fatigue, muscular soreness, congestion, allergies, headaches and halitosis. Below we list a number of ailments and their peppermint o i l treatment. (These were taken from a reputable publication on alternative medicine.)

BOOSTING OF ENERGY: To improve mental and physical energy and clarity level, inhale peppermint oil throughout the day. This may be done via the use of an inhaler or merely by sprinkling a few drops on a kerchief. GETTING RID OF DANDRUFF: Peppermint oil possesses anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties, which allows it to combat dandruff effectively. Relieves muscular pain: The menthol in peppermint oil has significant antispasmodic and anti-painkilling effects and a few drops mixed in coconut oil and massaged or rubbed on the affected muscle would bring relief.

serious and permanent injury to their bodies. The annual fatalities from traffic accidents compares with the annual deaths recorded from the COVID19 pandemic, the main difference being the victims of traffic accidents tend to be younger and vibrant citizens who could have contributed to Society. The victims of traffic accidents always leave a trail suffering with distraught wives or husbands, children and other close relatives. Traffic accidents and fatalities caused by traffic accidents can be eliminated or minimised. Even a century ago, Guyana had no traffic problem as

we know it today. Transport of goods and persons was done by animal-drawn vehicles on dirt or burnt earth roads. Then from the early 20th century, larger quantities of motorised vehicles began to be imported and used countrywide and these required compact and fairly hard-surfaced roads. Marl roads, almost wholly confined to Georgetown and burnt brick roads came to be built countrywide. Marl was imported from Barbados, being used as ballast for ships. The large chunks of marl were then broken into small pieces and then compacted with heavy rollers. One of these rollers is preserved as a museum piece in the Georgetown City Hall’s yard. With the comparative quick growth of asphalt roads and the simultaneous greater importation of motorised vehicles, the traffic problem as we know it arose. The Police Traffic Department began to gradually take measures to deal with it: Stop signs, No Entry and Road Crossings were painted on the streets and special traffic police were deployed. To this time there was no special traffic department. Later on, traffic lights were installed. Vehicular insurance became obligatory. The Police became more involved and all vehicles had to be certified by them that they were fit to be driven on the roads. The Public Works Department became much more involved in building the country roads. The Georgetown Public Hospital became more cognisant of traffic accidents and its victims. Educational campaigns on the safe use of the roads were regularly mounted. But despite all these measures, road accidents and accident fatalities kept increasing and remains a continuing problem in Guyana. The problem persists despite the safety infrastructures established by the State and NGO’s; it persists because of the human beings who use the roads and this fact is now widely recognised. Accordingly, a great deal of road safety effort is directed to road users, whether users of motorised vehicles or pedestrians. During World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, the Chief Traffic Officer, Senior Superintendent Ramesh Ashram reiterated main advisories to road users: In the first place, the driver must be sure that his vehicle is fully roadworthy and that he sits himself correctly so he could navigate along the roads in comfort, confidence and safety. The vehicle driver must be aware of and have a strict adherence to the traffic laws - he must not drive too close to the vehicle in front of his, must not inappropriately attempt to overtake or cut in after overtaking. The driver must not attempt to divide his attention between driving and electronic equipment such as cell phone or CD player. He must carefully respect the speed limits and never drink and drive. One should never attempt to drive if he has been deprived of sleep since he will inevitably doze off and lose control of his vehicle. Pedestrians must also use the roads carefully by keeping on their side and only crossing when safe. If human care and discipline as distilled in the World Day of Remembrance theme “Remember, Support, Act” are conjoined with the safety efforts made by the State and others, traffic accidents would be greatly minimised.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

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The Improvement and development of business in Guyana moves to a new dimension reside are being called on to invest in youth. “This can be done by purchasing a rural invent voucher and giving that to a young person as a gift for Christmas. We are going to be pushing this in the following weeks because it is a good gift for the Christmas holidays. ‘I am investing in your future and here you are,’ this would give them the opportunity to learn 20 skills in entrepreneurship,” Black told Pepperpot Magazine. Black continued to emphasise the point that we must change the narrative in our minds as young people to talk about owning your own business and becoming your entrepreneur.

Lyndell Danzie Black Director of the Cerulean Incorporated (Guyana)

By Dillon Goring The Start and Improve your Business (SIYB) Course focuses on helping to establish and develop small businesses as a strategy for creating more and better employment for women and men, particularly in emerging economies. Lyndell Danzie Black, the Director of the Cerulean Incorporated (Guyana) is working in partnership with clients from the Small Business Bureau. The programme is being funded by the International Labour Organisation and is a partial fulfilment for her entity to become an international trainer with the International Labour Organisation (ILO). “The objectivity of the training is to introduce what the ILO (International Labour Organisation) has branded Start and Improve Your Business. This has introduced to over 100 countries around the world and that programme targets entrepreneurs, new startups, so what has happened is Global Entrepreneurship Week but because of COVID, a decision was made to do something in observance of the week,” Black told the Pepperpot Magazine. Ten clients of the Small Business Bureau will be trained on how to develop their businesses towards meeting international standards while creating more employment. Black revealed that Entrepreneurship seems to be easier for youths than adults, nevertheless, the number of start-up for businesses seems to less among young people. She noted that this might be as a result of training, lack of awareness, limited financing options and limited policy directions that are specifically targeting youth entrepreneurship. Black explained that there are marketing barriers that youths face, but that can be countered by training and development. The future of Start and Improve your Business (SIYB) The brand of the Startup and Improve Your business would take the market by storm, Black opined. She also noted that the market will respond more positively with the introduction of capacity training and the recognition of an internationally recognised certificate from the ILO on the conclusion of the training programme. “I feel very very honoured to bring the ILO Certification to Guyana through the SIYB,” Black told Pepperpot Magazine. It was noted during the interview that the voices of youths need to be more vocal in the conversation of entrepreneurship. Hence, this training is timely, she said, because of the number of young people who leave university without options of starting a business or employment. “ I think it is time to change the narrative and starting speaking about owning your own money. We all cannot be employers, somebody needs to do the job. We need to have more employed,” Black was quoted as saying. It is against this backdrop, the company Cerulean has launched an invent entrepreneurship programme that targets young people between the ages of 17 -35. According to Black, leaders within the community, business people and other entrepreneurs where young people

“We will not just be looking for the sponsorship of community leaders, but we will also be allowing them to come in and host a talk session regarding their involvement in their sphere of influence,” she noted. She added that the initiative serves as a great way to build generational wealth. It was noted that the vision of Cerulean is to create a platform for Caribbean people to impact knowledge to other Caribbean people. “We are a homegrown, Caribbean brand so that we think that our people are good enough to impart knowledge to other people,” Black said.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Mangrove ecosystems providing increased resilience of coastal communities and agricultural lands THIS week, NAREI in Focus continues to highlight programmes undertaken by the institute that are helping Guyana to satisfy its obligations to the

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)’s “Koronivia Joint Work on Agriculture” (KJWA). The KJWA Roadmap

recognised the climate change challenges –- both adaptation and mitigation –- faced by the agricultural sector and the need for bold, urgent and transformative

actions to meet these challenges. It also recognised that these actions must be led by countries, farmers, researchers, investors and the private sector; and for effective transformation to occur, agriculture must be seen in a broad sense as including policies, services and institutions. The thematic area being highlighted this week is Methods and approaches for assessing adaptation, adaptation co-benefits and resilience This thematic area recognises that attempts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions or manage the effects of climate change traditionally focus on management or policy options that promote single outcomes (e.g., either benefiting ecosystems or human health and well-being). In contrast, co-benefit approaches to climate change mitigation and adaptation address climate change impacts on human and ecological health in tandem and on a variety of spatial and temporal scales. Mangrove Restoration Coastal regions of Guyana are highly vulnerable to climate impacts. Sea-level rise, coastal storm events,

and natural resource scarcity have impacted Guyana’s coastal ecosystems and society. These climate impacts intersect with other anthropogenic stressors contributing to the degradation of coastal habitats and ecosystems (driven by, among other things, development, encroachment and pollution), increasing the risk of coastal hazards. Ecosystem-Based Adaptation N A R E I ’s M a n g r o v e Restoration and Management Programme seeks to sustainably manage and restore Guyana’s coastal mangrove ecosystem as part of the country’s overall climate-change adaptation and mitigation programme. Interventions over the years have resulted in extensive restoration of the mangrove ecosystems providing increased resilience of coastal communities and agricultural lands to floods, due to storm surges and sea-level rise. Restored Mangroves at Number 7 Village, West Coast Restored Mangroves, Lima, Essequibo Berbice Providing Primary Sea Defence Coast, Region Two.

NAREI has conducted restoration at 26 sites, through seedling planting, construction of geotextile groynes, bamboo sediment traps and rock groynes. Over 500,000 black mangrove seedlings have been planted and the restored mangroves are now providing protection for the communities of Chateau Margot to Ogle on the East Coast, Anna Regina to Devonshire Castle on the Essequibo Coast and Village No. 2 to Village No. 11, West Coast Berbice. In addition to the coastal protection services provided by mangroves, they also sequester carbon. An assessment conducted on Guyana’s mangrove forest based on a 2016 mangrove extent of 26,836 hectares, estimated our carbon stock at 6.1 million tonnes above ground biomass and 4.1 million Tons of Soil Carbon. Future programmes by NAREI will see the development of a spatial mangrove-monitoring platform which will provide yearly assessments of our mangrove extent and analysis of the carbon-storage potential of Guyana’s mangrove ecosystem.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

XVII

PLANNING FOR THE BRIEF, BUT IMPORTANT WINTER SOLSTICE -- OF CHRISTMAS...

THE human organism, whether we concede to creation or evolution has developed based on the blessings of our adaptation to the geographic challenges, greater or lesser that enveloped us where we were led to inhabit. But the evolution of our consciousness is unique in many ways based on the same influential circumstances, which determined access to the fundamental needs of adequate food and water, allowing for the opening of gateways to other dormant faculties that led to kinder Gods, adventures into imagination, priesthoods with time to unravel the language of the cosmos, architecture and invention, aspects of the faculties that define civilisation in our current narratives. Somewhere in the prehistoric period the understanding that stories told about Gods, devils and heroes, to explain the unknown was a potent tool (this interpretation is based on the fact that we do not know what they saw or experienced) as would be the topic of this article: “The invention of Children’s toys”. No existing research can identify where the creation of ‘Toys’ actually occurred, current findings credit ancient Kemet, covering Kush-Sudan, Punt-Ethiopia with Dolls and games like ‘Jacks’ and Hula-hoops, the latter played with dried grapevines, the Sumerians and the Indus valley civilisation -Mahenjo Daro -Harappa, seemingly before Greece and Rome. Toys are instrumental in the development of the imagination of children, and our ancestors understood this in past millennia, it added to the normalcy and upliftment of life back then. It must be realised that nomadic peoples may have found it difficult to expand into the time for toy development, not to say that through their raids such bounty would not have been acquired from their more advanced victims. Likewise, with the harsh weather of the winter lands, where food and defence were the principle priorities, such things were not essential to survival, until the conquest eras of both Greece and Rome, but this is not conclusive as new findings will add to what we know. Toys and children have always been an inseparable part of the symbolism of renewal that Christmas envelopes on the background of the past harvest seasons of sharing in honour of Mother Nature and the promise of blessings through house cleansing to make way for a social inventory followed by resolutions for the coming cycle, that the religious embodiment of the Christ Child speaks to us off. Toys in yesteryear Guyana revolved around movies, Gunfight at O.K coral, war movies etc. the conflict was that our toy store displays came from England, while the movies essentially came from America. We, however, had toy stores then, that fit the need anyhow. Though there weren’t lots of money to go around, with

most houses that had sons, toy guns at least played a significant part with the sound of bursting caps perforating the otherwise calm, that existed except for when two neighbours went after each other in a landing-to-landing or cross-thestreet cuss down which will be intercepted once everybody is clear about the grouse, with several interpretations of the “buse” content, which will then fill episodes of following gossip. But the guns that made the most noise were some cheap 25c tin pistols that keep more repeated noise than the ‘Cisco Kid, Apache or frontier 45’ to name those cap guns. Christ-

mas should be what all indications declare, a celebration for, and of Children. The lore of Santa Claus may drift away, but the story of the Mystic Kings of old Elam/Persia and the Star they followed to find a child that they declared a saviour and the murder of the infant sons that followed under King Herod who existed, is content of substance that challenges scepticism while placing before us what the essence of the commemoration of the season of Christmas is grounded in. Back in my childhood, there was no TV in Guyana, so we read books, comics, western novels, etc. But every Christmas I would be given the gift of an Annual, LION, TIGER that comes to memory, at 10 or 11 years old these were treasures. Guyana had from my memory a fledgling Christmas industry. As a local cowboy, you weren’t ready if you didn’t have a leather holster from a woman in Big Market who sold these almost exact movie-looking, locally made ‘gunslinger holsters.’ ‘Auntie’ we called her. Then these were tough push and pull toys made of wood, I later learnt that had they spray-painted those products they would’ve been much more attractive and popular, but the epitome of Guyana’s toy production to me lay (I’ve written about this before) in what I saw as a young man at an exhibition presented by the Linden Technical Institute where they had this model of operations at Linden with h-d vehicle replicas, produced by the students. My excitement came from browsing through my Godfather and father’s popular mechanic and other trade magazines for instructions to make model wood Tommy guns before then, I had seen an article about the Match Box Series, how they used moulds, I also learnt (the stopper) that the h-d vehicle replicas of the Linden models came from real vehicles and we would have to buy the rights from these companies to produce toys from them. As we proceed to the Christmas, in the age of COVID-19, with many people out of work, let’s try as best to feed the excitement, the inspiration and self-esteem of children with a toy we know they will like and a book to accompany in the gift wrapping. After all, it’s a children’s holiday that we’re just the patrons and custodians of.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Empowering Christmas Gifts The year 2020 is one many will never forget for various reasons. Many will remember the devastation but for others, it was their best year. It was mixed emotions for me. The Women in Business Expo and Inspire You were scheduled in the first quarter but did not happen because of the pandemic. During the second quarter I lost my dad and I believe I am still in denial regarding his death. My aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer. I also knew a few persons who died from COVID. It was not all bad because I had tremendous growth, especially spiritual growth which is assisting me in these challenging times. We are entering the last month of 2020 and I believe we can do a lot to end this year strong. I am intentional about ending this year on a high note.Top of my list is my spiritual growth because I know with that it is easier for other things to fall into place. It is the season for giving and I have a feeling that Christmas gifts will be different this year. I will be giving more meaningful gifts that can add value to lives. Let’s give gifts that will last a lifetime. For example, a book or course with the content that will empower someone to find their purpose. A few persons did call about books as a gift for the holidays, including my dear friend Dr Raquel Thomas-Caesar who is interested in the Men Across Borders Anthology. Her level of consciousness and compassion I admire greatly. Some people will be utilising my courses which include the Confidence Becomes You. Confidence increases your belief in knowing that what seems impossible can be possible. “ This programme has transformed my life and made be discover why I was created.“ Akisha from St Vincent said about the programme. Seven Days Healthy Thoughts Challenge is also available in book form on Amazon. Feedback from someone who did the course: “By the second day I was experiencing a shift and knew the transformation would be awesome. One of the best seven days I have invested and will recommend this programme to anyone.” Jo Anne Forde founder Innovoir Spa Guyana “21 Days of Intentional Growth is a programme that deep dives into the inner you, pushes you out of you comfort zone and into your purpose. Sonia Noel has touched my life the way no other coach has ever done. She’s [a] world-class coach of coaches. She is full of insight, inspiration, power, energy and vigour that you can’t help but to follow her lead.“ Busi-

ness strategist and coach Gabriel Funsho Babalola from Nigeria. We also have a programme on how to invest your time wisely to increase productivity and efficiency. “I am more intentional and strategic with my time. I was always late and since that programme I value my 24 hours more and I am experiencing the positive results.” Developing the Best You has also been having rave reviews. Penny Castle is a coach from South Africa and this is what she said about the course: ”Sonia Noel is one of those inspiring coaches. As a student in her programme I came away inspired and ready to take action. As a coach and educator I was impressed with the techniques she used to embed my learning without introducing the complexity for herself one of the most insightful coaches.” I shared these testimonials for other people to talk beside me. Testimonials such as these give me the drive to do more to help more people. I recently published my eighth book, Women Across Borders Anthology Soaring to great hearts on Amazon. I am just stating what I have available, but you don’t have to buy from me. I will certainly recommend the Awakening Soul by young Guyanese Maverick David or A compilation of Daily

Places and things... Public road on the lower Corentyne coast, due west to the Berbice River Bridge. Some time ago, I asked a few Berbicans for suggestions for a name which it should be given. After some discussion “Rohan Kanhai Drive” was the consensus. Years ago, Linden named the north-to-south street on the western bank of the Demerara River, “Burnham Drive.” The country’s main international airport was also years ago, named “The Cheddi Jagan International Airport” while the country’s second international airport at Ogle has more recently been christened “The Eugene Correia International Airport” in memory and to honour the well-known businessman and politician. In posting the question on Facebook about a name for the Kitty roundabout which is located at the northern end of Vlissengen Road in Georgetown, these are some of the suggestions which I received: Berkley Wickham took to history. “The Kitty roundabout has taken in the Kitty Playground. This playground was famous for its annual maypole and May queen event. The roundabout could be called ‘The

Kitty maypole roundabout’.” Lenox Bobb suggested, “Sea Breeze roundabout.” Bertrand Stuart wants it to be known as “Atlantic Turn.” “The Pump House” was what Christopher recommended. And Miranda La Rose offered “Patto Roundabout.” Albert Bentick felt that it should be named for the late educator and author, Vere T. Daly, who resided in Kitty. When Vedant De Caiman came up with “APNU’s Full circle” Andrew Pollard responded, “Vedant, you are a troublesome boy.” The laughing emoji with a tilting head was inserted at the end. Clairmonte Griffith’s suggestion was an original; “As it was in the beginning - Kitty Public Road Circle” was his recommendation. Ian G. Hall came up with “Ken Corsbie roundabout” while Bernard Ramsay recommended “Kitty Roundabout” since he feels, “Not fancy but it’s already been christened so by Georgetowners.” Rounding off the suggestions was Anthony Persaud who came up with the name “Mingo roundabout.” No doubt other citizens of Georgetown would have their own interesting names for that roundabout. About a mile west of that Kitty roundabout is Eve Leary; a

Reminders by the new author in town, Wendy Hermonstine. If you are desirous of building your faith, the book to purpose is Faith Supplements by Nigerian Nath Ayo Aiyedodbon. We take supplements for our body but for real spiritual growth we need supplements too. I do display faith every day, but I know I can improve. I may be lending my copy to some people because I know it has the ability to build our faith muscles with much strength. Let’s give more that we get in this last month of 2020 as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called Life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

From Page II small part of the city where the Police Headquarters is located. Eve Leary was an English young woman and is buried in that area of Georgetown which bears her name. In an excavation exercise, I discovered her tomb which was covered in about a foot of soil. Now let’s go beyond the city of Georgetown to Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast. Could the name of the town’s first mayor, Hettie Kumar, be chosen for the car park? Then there is the attractive new speedboat landing at Supenaam which should also be given an appropriate name. That location used to be classic “Third World” ugly and muddy speedboat terminal, but has been upgraded to the high standard of a developed country two years ago. Melanie on the East Coast Demerara was named by President Forbes Burnham for one of his daughters. The Shirley Field-Ridley Square in Georgetown was named for a former Minister of government. So, let’s get on with it. We have been talking about this patriotic activity for quite a while.

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CHRONICLEPEPPERPOT PEPPERPOT――Sunday, Sunday,November October 4,29,2020 CHRONICLE 2020

Gratitude and happiness

A FEW weeks ago, I wrote that simple, everyday things such as cleanliness can have a big impact on mental health-to extinguish the ideaget that massiveif steps Hellotrying Everyone, ple can physical they always need to be taken for improvement. find out have been I thought I’d focus on gratitude todaythey as psychologists often say “gratitude is the key to happiness.” Practising daily hope this week has betrayed gratitude is so simple yet yields tremendous results. I constantly recommend to my clients- and improved remy treated youit well. Enditofhasa marriage/ own quality of life. I recently Mountains of researchrehavelationship determined that gratitude is directly linked to overall life satisfaction and happiness. When ceived a request - Broken relationships I ask my clients to make gratitude lists, I watch them smile a bit more to every week,adultery appreciating small things and letting discuss withthechildren and other famthe even smaller things go. and isitssimply effectsanon ily members Gratitude appreciation for what you have. It is aboutwell-being. being thankful for what you were given rather than mental Financial stress being resentful for what you were not. It makes us more optiA woman had writtenwhile increasing - Medicalour consequences mistic and less materialistic self-esteem, confidence and empathy. It helps us to experience a wider about her husband’s infideli- suchusastoacquiring a sexually range of positive emotions, allows reminisce on good memories; improvesit our relationships and overall, both mental ty and the anguish brought transmitted disease (STD) and physical health. her.Studies I think itshow is anthat important Pregnancy people who -report being(themselves grateful for their health (of any kind) are more likely to take care of it. topic to discuss, as it is so or the outside person) They are more likely to eat, sleep and exercise well, more so than the rest of the population. In terms of mental health, prominent throughout our gratitude minimises jealously, envy, anger and regret. Instead, society. I myself know very Now,aswhat doessocial it promotes self-esteem and confidence it reduces comparisons. This, that of course, benefitsdoour few relationships are further cheating torelationthe ships. A specific study showed that couples who express monogamouswhich victim? gratitude to each othermeans are less likely to get divorced. This is due to the appreciation of course but it is mainly because if to be married to or to be in a causes extreme hurt, one expresses gratitude, the other isItmore willing and patient to listenrelationship to criticismwith as well. sexual just low self-esteem and selfFor working relationships, supervisors who express gratione partner. doubt.working, It ruinsmotivated the trust for tude to their employees report harder and focused staff. We’re going to talk about not only the current, but also

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being unfaithful in general for future relationships. This as only married people can is called projecting, when commit adultery, but you the victims are more often do not have to be married than not afraid, insecure in order to be devastated by and untrusting in their new that betrayal. relationships. This can lead For the religious, adul- to high anxiety, depression tery is a sin; the word from and even suicide. its Latin heritage ‘adulterCheating will also affect are’ means to corrupt. It is the children if the family is one of the major causes of split apart. Typically, trust breakups/divorce worldissuesand are when also passed on to farmer rearing 1,000 meat birds they attain the weight of six to seven pounds he would sell them wide. However, its effects them, affecting both theirafter fuplucking at the Hubu Koker. I lose moreare than ture making a profitand because the on “At bothtimes individuals friendships intimate price for chicken feed is $5,300 per bag; with that you have widespread. to mix grower and starter withrelationships. bran and fine rice at five weeks of growth for the chickens,” said. Unfaithfulness/cheatI he know many people who Benny added that the riverine life is not easy, but they try ingstay causes nevertheir beenfamilies cheatedsince on to abovemany waterproblems and earn to have maintain the road life isn’t suitable for them. with both the cheater and (to their knowledge), but are the victim, ranging from terrified of it because one of

Students who express gratitude in journals are more likely to have better grades, play a team sport and have a wider social support orcircle not;andthere aresystem. peopleFindings also prove that gratitude improves goal achievement. Participants were asked to write who andterm people a listcheat of short goalswho they would like to achieve over the following two months. Only half were asked to write daily do not. It’s simply a pergratitude lists as well. Those who wrote the gratitude lists were more successful in accomplishing their goals. sonal choice. There will Gratitude can even minimise the possibility of developing always other problems mental be illnesses. A 2006 to study conducted on War Veterans found that those who wrote ‘blame’ the cheating on, but daily gratitude lists were less likely to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) than those who did not. Research despite temptation, we as also shows physical symptoms of gratitude. Those who make gratitude lists and therefore humans havethatthewider capability experience range of positive emotions have overall immune function. Specifically, there have lower rates tobetter choose whether we hurt of high or low blood sugar, blood pressure, heart or coronary someone deeply diseases and wellorasnot. the outcome of cancer treatments.

The main reason always How can we practice gratitude? is aisreally citedThis to me a lacksimple of at-process. It is about taking a few minutes to be thankful for the little things we tend to take for tention. felt for absolutely anything. From granted.The Youpartner can behas grateful your family and friends to ignored by their significantthe water on this earth. However, please try to be as specific as possible- to allow room for more gratitude. For has example –instead of saying “my family”, you other which lowered can say “I’m grateful that I got to spend time with my family their self-esteem and grateful self- for the hug I received from a last weekend” or “I’m family Therefore, member this morning.” worth. they seek Start a gratitude list right now with just three things you attention elsewhere. are grateful for. Every day, write one new thing and then reread the entire list. Every day! This really allows us to literally There are manyYou ways count our blessings. can also keep a full journal jotting down good events that happened throughout the day. This to give attention to your develops positive mental health through good memories and spouse. Some examples appreciation. Write thank-you notes expressing your appreciation for are constant communication of the problem—not talking, ignoring and holding a grudge solves nothing. Other examples are being physically and mentally present and affectionate, compassionate, patient, empathetic and sexually active. Human beings long for these types of connections. Basically, cheating is an external reaction toThe an internal fuel depot/shop owner Looknarine Persaud called “Scott” is a resident of problem. Participating in the Lanaballi and he has a business housing a shop and a fuel station, serving are theinternal riverine communities and the people. above examples The father of six added that for all his life he has resided solutions. in the riverine community and hasn’t seen much development

anything special anyone has done for you. I know we are in the digital era and texting is more likely but there is just something wonderful about old fashioned notes. Showing appreciation for others allows us to easier show it to ourselves. Pray to whatever higher power you choose. People commonly use prayer to develop and nurture gratitude. Develop and stick to a practice. When you are having dinner with your loved ones, make it a habit of everyone saying one thing they are grateful for that day. Guyana doesn’t celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday but if you do this, every day can be thanksgiving. A good way to encourage gratitude is to imagine our lives without what we have. We have to remember that there will always be someone who has less and more than we do. Put things into perspective. Gratitude is also increased when we stop finding fault. Complaining is natural to us as human beings but it doesn’t have to be. We can pay attention to our words in an attempt to improve them and subsequently our mood and self-esteem. Replace it with a more positive/ optimistic outlook. Example, if your bus is late one day which makes you late for your destination, rather than complaining, maybe be grateful that it only happened once that week or you now have some additional time for yourself. The only thing complaining does is allow us to relive the situation as well as the stress and frustration that came along with it. It is helpful to view gratitude as a very successful coping mechanism. It doesn’t matter where the stress is coming from- family, school, relationships, work etc, gratitude can help them all. Thanking you for reading. Please keep sending any topics you’d like to talk about to caitlinvieira@gmail.com If you are interested in personal counselling sessions with me, please call or message +592 623 0433 Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers: 223-0001, 2230009, 623-4444, 600-7896 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always

Beri-Bissiballi/Lanaballi farmers ... which is long overdue. The 69-year-old stated that since he was a small boy What happens after growing up, the ‘Del Conte Road’ was promised to link the riverine villages from Parika to Bartica but to date, that you have found out? promise hasn’t been fulfilled.

Well, there is a big deci-

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“The lands need to be surveyed for villagers to get their leases and that too was promised but after 10 years, they are still waiting,” he said. Persaud disclosed that 800 acres of land at Lanaballi was surveyed but no leases were ever granted to the people and it is time for this to happen. He, like the others, is more than willing to work with the authorities to make life more comfortable for riverine folk. Persaud is of the view that once the place is developed, more people will stay because they have to leave to get their children to schools, get better facilities and services and employment.

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‘I always wanted to... From Page IV

spot but we’ll bring the same products to you.” Eye Candy 592 was launched about two weeks ago where Aleeda provides desserts in mason jars. “Cheesecake, pudding, brownies, Jell-O etc. are made to order for all occasions, even on a normal day to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings,” she said. Since it’s the holiday season and treats and gifts are the going thing, Aleeda said she thought of creating something festive that will catch everyone’s eye. The third business, One Stop Shop GY, is an online-based shop where someone can find all their needs in one place. “Products for your hair, body, home, office, and a lot more… We aim to provide everything on one Instagram page to ease the hassle of having to go store to store to find them,” she said. The idea for this business came about from Aleeda’s personal experience with shopping. “I had always wanted to venture into this because of the fact that I enjoy scrolling my Instagram and shopping from various small business pages, however, I’d usually have to visit several pages to find what I needed. I wanted to start my own page where persons could find everything they needed in one stop,” she explained. Aleeda is grateful to her family and many friends who all chipped in to make her dreams a reality including Lashawna Moore, Phillip Smith, Sean Moonsammy, Devanand, Ronnella Hill and many others. Her businesses can all be accessed on Instagram.

Cocktail Culture 592 caters to cocktails, Jell-O shots, infused treats and appetizers for all occasions

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Citrus farmer advocates ... through a lot of challenges as farmers and one of the most stubborn issues is with acoushi ants which would destroy their crops. “Six weeks ago they had a rainstorm which came with heavy winds, bending the bamboos to the ground and flattened my entire crop like other farmers and we couldn’t complain but start all over again,” he said. Mangal explained that the supply of citrus is more than the demand; as such, he would often carry losses

and at other times he would get good prices for his produce. Citrus produce would take 18 months to start bearing and after three years of abandoned bearing it would cease and would be replaced by a new budded plant. He disclosed that the village has a nursery, primary and secondary school in one compound, a health centre and a mandir. In Beri-Bissiballi Village the locals eat their produce in a “farm-to-the-table” life-

style and they would fish and hunt for meats and try to be self-sufficient as much as possible, being a far-flung community. This village is without electricity, potable water supply, and the cellular networks are very poor. Mangal said that as part of Region Three, the farmers would like the administration to visit and listen to their concerns and offer whatever assistance they can to make their lives easier. When the team visited

From Page VIII most of the residents, who came via boats to engage the team had gathered at Mangal’s place, a lovely oasis which has a breathtaking riverside view and the place is very well kept. The farm runs deep within the village and everything is very orderly and Mangal has in his employ several staff, for whom he provides adequate accommodation. Beri-Bissiballi Village is a lovely breezy place where the air is fresh and one can

COVID-19 Corner at Beri-Bissiballi Village.

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50 years on ...

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of them looking for,” he said. Tullah says not all barbers can “properly cut or deal with” various types and textures of hair…or shapes of heads. He says the reason for this limitation is that most new barbers depend totally on appliances such as the electric trimmer. He says many of the current crop of barbers have entered the profession not for the love of cutting hair, but for the monetary benefit.

‘Tullah’ alongside his classic Wolseley automobile in front of his barbershop (Samuel Maughn photo)

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Plastic Waste to be converted to Fuel Guyana may soon receive a proposal to convert its waste plastics into fuel. US-based company, Green Link Renewable Energy is currently in discussions which are aimed at utilising disposed plastics to be converted to fuel. Guyana, for years, has struggled to cope with improper waste disposal especially in the Capital City, Georgetown and major stakeholders are of the view that Guyana needs a recycling plant to dispose of its garbage, particularly in the city of Georgetown. Mayor of Georgetown, Pandit Ubraj Narine during a recent interview on HGPTV Nightly News made it clear that a recycling plant in the city can generate electricity through the coconut industry and thus create more jobs for unemployed persons. But the recycling plant issue is not a new idea. In April of 2014, five companies had sent proposals to undertake such an effort. In 2019, Manager of the Landfill site at Haags Bosch Lloyd Stanton had indicated that Guyana is not producing enough garbage for advanced waste disposal. At that time, Guyana was receiving approximately 400 to 450 tons of burnable Garbage per day of which only 250 tons is burnable which represents a shortfall in the amount of burnable Garbage that is needed to sustain the recyclable plant. Stanton had stated then that to sustain such a plant, the moisture that is present in our garbage should be taken into consideration. Impact on our Society The establishment of a recycling plant, particularly in the capital city, would have a major impact on society in terms of the importation of plastic products and the elimination of plastic waste in drains, alleyways, rivers and creeks. During an interview with Pepperpot Magazine, Business Development Manager of Cevons Waste Management Morris Archer revealed that it can be beneficial for unemployed persons. “Right there, there is employment, if it is done on a larger scale it is more people and that will be good,” Archer said Others believe that there can be a lot of revenue garnered by companies, supermarkets and stores for citizens who will make contributions of plastic materials to recycled plastic facilities in their stores, companies and supermarkets. “It is good to always promote recycling because it diverts from our landfill sites and unfortunately, landfills are close to the city and it is a lot of real estate land and it is the biggest motivation,” Archer added. This move will be an improvement in the cleanliness of our streets, roads and alleyways, where plastic waste is indiscriminately dumped, he believes. Archer also believes that the laws that govern littering should be enforced and penalisation should be heavier for persons who continue to pay no attention to littering indiscriminately. Change is inevitable, should a recycling plant be established, we have to adapt and adjust, he stated, adding that landfill sites should be eliminated and many recycling plants should be set up.

Landfill Site

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Creole, the identity, ...

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

THOUGHT FOR TO

DAY

Had we but worl d enough, and This coyness, tiLme, ady, were no crime. ANDREW MARV 1678) To His C ELL (1621oy Mistress

November 29, 2020 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome, dear friend. Know that good examination preparedness strengthens you mentally

and emotionally. Study if you are studying; shun skylarking. Use specific achievement goals each time you study to support your overall academic goal. If Language is your most difficult subject, spend most of your study time with it. Study it first always. Do have these four measures among your study skills and techniques: mastery in note-taking; good use of mind maps; reading aloud to yourself; and teaching others. Be tactful. Love you. READING Understanding the Passage A red blur covered his eyes as he ran. But halfway down the block a sharp pain under his rib cage stopped him. Imamu doubled up and leaned against a tree. He waited for the pain to pass but it only grew sharper. His breath pushed out of his lungs in painful spurts. He could feel the pulse beat at his temples. Sweat broke out through his pores, wetting his shirt, which clung to him. With difficulty he unbuttoned his shirt so that the breeze found his bare chest. He waited. Minutes went by. A bird chirped in a tree. He heard the flow of cars on the street behind him. The red blur lifted; his breath eased. At last the pain stopped…. Slowly he let the scene at the dinner table replay through his mind. He saw Mrs. Ainsley playing for time so that he could get to know the family – and they could get to know him. Mr. Ainsley trying to try. Perk, with her round face and gummy smile. He looked long at her face. He saw her bright eyes flashing her intention of being Perk, of being smart, open, letting her thoughts hang out. He sort of liked her; liked the fact that she didn’t keep anything hidden – unlike Gail. Something to Do 1. a) “A red blur covered his eyes as he ran.” What red blur do you think the writer is talking about? Support your answer with two leads from the passage. b) “He could feel the pulse beat at his temples.” What could have been hap-

pening to Imamu to cause this awareness? 2. Which effect does the narrator not hope to achieve in the use of short sentences only, in the first paragraph? (A) To reduce the chance of the reader getting distracted. (B) To enable the use of a variety of sentence lengths. (C) To provide extra emphasis on what is being told. (D) To break the narrative’s swiftness of flow. 3. a) Why does Imamu ask himself questions as he replays the dinner table scene? b) What does he hope to achieve? 4. Why, do you think, he was quitting the Ainsley family home? IMPROVING COMPOSITION WRITING The proper verb forms Here is a story where the verb is given but not in the correct form. Write down the correct form of the verb each time. THE MISHAP (take) place on the first leg of the trailer route, which (rise) one mile to the very top of Bradford Point in hilly country. This (be) also the scene of the country’s worst wet weather accident in 1985 in which more than 15 people died. The RAT fighter jet packed with warfare equipment (rip) through the roof of the trailer in the dark midnight. The trailer in which the victims (travel) fell more than 4,000 feet. According to one newspaper report, the fighter jet actually (brush) aside the trailer. But a local business owner told the news agency Scorpio early this morning that the fighter threatened to (hit) the trailer with its tail fin as it flew over it. A slight injury to the aircraft was (confirm) by its agency. The pilot was apparently unaware that he had (strike) a moving trailer or injured anyone as aircraft go to and fro at very low levels. They fly low every day looking for lost local workmen. THE PASSAGE Spring for bees, and so for bee-keepers as well, has nothing to do with the calendar. In protected hallows even in the Missouri winter, bees can find a bit of springtime in flowers with enough pollen to feed the first young bees growing from the eggs the queen has begun to lay.

Various aspects of maples, all members of genus, Acer, with their delicate blossoms ranging from yellow-green to red, are one of the earliest to bloom. Maples are tall trees, and their blossoms are borne high in the crowns, where they often are not seen by humans. The bees, of course, have no trouble in finding them. The American hazel, Corylus americana, is a smaller tree – hardly more than a shrub – that is another early source of pollen, and easier for us to see. It grows wild throughout most of temperate North America and produces the nuts we call filberts. In late winter and early spring when most other plants are at rest, hazel generously produces pollen on long, dangling catkins. In the winter, I like to stop on my walk down to the mailbox and draw one of the yellowish-brown catkins between my thumb and forefinger and watch the powdery golden pollen collect in my palm. On days warm enough, bees, having declared it springtime, will be on the catkins collecting pollen….. More adult bees are carbohydrate feeders. They live on nectar and honey, which are almost exclusively carbohydrate in composition except for a few traces of minerals, vitamins and other materials. But young and developing bees need protein to grow muscles, glands and other tissues, and it is pollen – variously rich in protein, depending on its source – that provides it…… (Taken from Sue Hubbell’s “A Book on Bees”) Something to Do 1. Read the passage again and observe how the writer reaches out to her reader as she guides him through her writing. Go through the passage paragraph by paragraph to arrive at your responses. a) Write down whatever pointers appeal specifically to you on a personal level. b) Ask a study partner to do the same. c) Compare the points of appeal. d) How can this exercise help you as a budding writer? 2. Write a factual essay and try to include at least one personal anecdote (as exemplified by the present writer). Think about your audience, and how you can affect their reading. Create a mood with the help of specific words and images.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 29, 2020

Nature’s priority

THIRTY-FIVE days after the sperm fertilises the egg, the teeth begin to form. At this point in the development of the embryo which is only three-quarters of an inch long, not even the eyes nor the sex organs have been formed. It is even widely believed that this fact alone is enough to convince anyone of how much priority nature places on the teeth. If a quarter of your liver is lost through an accident or if such a portion is surgically removed, it will amazingly grow back. This four-pound miracle machine filters more than two pints of blood per minute, screening and eliminating impurities from the system. But like the liver, the chewing apparatus is an embattled organ, constantly under attack by a variety of damaging agents, as a result of our conscious abuse. Yet the teeth and related structures

struggle faithfully and persistently to maintain equilibrium by demonstrating their remarkable qualities. During the time the child is between six and 30 months old, 10 primary teeth appear from each jaw. At first, a tough fibrous sheet protects each young tooth. Then the enamel develops to a hardness of nearly one third that of steel. To further prevent destruction, it has the natural ability to increase its resistance against chemical attack by fluoride. But despite all these valiant defence mechanisms, many parents and guardians continue to waste the prevailing good fortune by not doing enough to prevent tooth decay from occurring in these hapless children. The consequence of not caring the so-called baby teeth usually reflects negatively in the permanent teeth which erupt within six to 20 years. Deformed crowns, crowding (malocclusion) and retained teeth are only a few of the negative effects. Healthy teeth can withstand over 20,000 pounds per square inch of pressure while in use. The eight groups of ligament fibres which hold a tooth in its socket can cushion tremendous force without eliciting pain. As teeth wear down with age, they grow out to compensate for this loss in length. The pulps become smaller and produce differentiated fibres making toothache increasingly less likely as the person becomes older. In addition, if the person develops a carie, the surrounding dentin attempts to isolate that decayed the decayed patch from the rest of the tooth to prevent pain and suffering. Nature provides secondary dentin which is nerveless and therefore incapable of sensitivity or pain. Perhaps if we should be in a position to closely accompany the process of aggression and defence that takes place constantly in almost every part of our bodies, we may be more sympathetic towards care and prevention. Whether it is God or evolution that is accountable for such an extraordinary machine we call the human body, that question is not as important as its innate perfect design. There is in place the protection devices and the perpetual tendency to re-establish a healthy state even after disease.

If only we could see how each cell, tissue and organ struggle to overcome the effects of our blunders, complacency, betrayal and cruelty due to carelessness. Always, when some clinical symptom emerges, it means that our teeth have to fight against the enemy. Who is the enemy? We are. Every time we neglect to implement proper oral care we automatically become an enemy to the well-being of our dental health. It is widely accepted that every Christian sorrowfully

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abhors the thought that Jesus in his plenitude and benevolence was crucified. If indeed there should be anything at all that he or she could do now to revoke that occurrence, certainly it would be done. But it is too late. In the same sense, we should not allow deterioration of any part of our body now, only to be aggrieved later when it is too late. So start, by truly loving yourself today.

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