Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-Paper 12-06-2022

Moving up the ranks

Guyana-born Brigadier-General becomes first African American Land Component Commander in the state of Arkansas

Brigadier General Leland Tony Shepherd was born in Guyana and grew up in Station Street Kitty, Georgetown. He recently became the first African American to hold the title of 6th Land Component Commander for the Arkansas Army National Guard. Shepherd is proud of what he has achieved and states that, “People will be able to look at my story and say ‘A guy from Guyana who migrated can move through the ranks and become a general officer – a leader of the forces; I can do it too.’” (Photo courtesy of BG Leland Tony Shepherd)

Sunday, June 12, 2022

II

‘IKEMBA’

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Agents of change and youth involvement in reparatory justice

THE first time that Onika Frank heard about reparations and reparatory justice was in 2017, when she was an intern at the CARICOM Secretariat under the Human and Social Development Culture Unit. With a lack of sufficient involvement of young people within the reparations movement and given her

background in youth development and experience in culture, Onika decided to use her skills to bring a group of young people together and have a conversation about reparations. She used the occasion to consult with young people about the best approaches to increase youth involvement in the reparations movement,

and to her delight, the group was very interested. In fact, the same group that was called to the consultation decided to start the organisation, IKEMBA – Youth for Reparations, with 12 executive members. Onika is one of the founders and Vice-President of the organisation, which is the youth arm of the Guyana

President Kibwe Copeland Vice-President Onika Frank

Member of the communications team, from left: Capacity Building and Development Officer Eketa Edwards, Mobilization Officer Shanette Dey and Rashleigh Fraser

Reparations Committee. The committee, which falls under the CARICOM Reparations Commission, is the only one with a functioning youth arm in the region. Although reparations may be an emotionally charged subject as it deals with compensation for slavery, racial inequalities and other forms of discrimination that continue to happen, ‘Ikemba’ believes that people should be taught multiple perspectives on the subject. “Our focus is on challenging the hard truths and changing the methods of delivery and communications when it comes to teaching Caribbean history and cul-

ture for people of African descent,” Onika explained in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine. And speaking of the mode of delivery of such information, the organisation last weekend held the first of three outreach activities at the Giftland Mall, where members were on hand to answer questions from the public and generally raise awareness of the work of the organisation, which operates from the Museum of African Heritage in Barima Avenue. Wanting to see more young people involved in the reparations movement, IKEMBA invited local singer Abel Stokes to serenade

passers-by with afro-centric reggae music at the mall last week, while volunteers engaged many patrons in reparation discussions and the distribution of tokens, including locally authored and produced books on African history and reparations. Since the organisation has found that most young people would not pick up a book and read, it uses ‘edutainment’ to get its messages over. “We go into schools and teach our local and regional history; we utilise things like [sic] song, dance, poetry, and these other things to teach African histoSEE PAGE VII

III

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Moving up the ranks Guyana-born Brigadier-General becomes first African American Land Component Commander in the state of Arkansas

AS a young boy growing up in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam – perhaps as young as four years old - Leland Tony Shepherd was always fascinated with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) parades that his uncle, Ivor Shepherd, would take him to see. At the time, neither he nor ‘Uncle Ivor’ had any idea of the life-altering effects of these casual experiences. Now a Brigadier-General, Leland Shepherd has recently assumed command as the Sixth Land Component Commander for the Arkansas Army National Guard in the United States and is all set today (June 12) to complete the transfer of command with a ceremony. As the first African American to take up this office in the state of Arkansas, Shepherd will now have command

Center, in North Little Rock, Arkansas. In his new office, he is tasked with operational readiness, training, mobilisation, deployments in defence of the nation and aiding local authorities in times of state emergencies. “I feel very blessed and grateful and honoured to have been selected because there are many other people who could’ve been selected who are qualified to do this job,” the general, who grew up at Lot 39 Station Street, Kitty, told the Pepperpot GenMagazineBrigadier in an interview. All eral Leland Tony prepared Shepherd for his new role, he is the hopes to6th be Land able toCompoinspire, first andnent foremost, the next Commander generation Shepherds – for of the Arkansas with twoArmy sons, National Ryan and Guard Anthony, already in the army – and then the broader population. “People will be able to look at my story and say,

Shepherd with his uncle, Ivor, and brother Colin

over all of the ground forces in the state. He will command the Arkansas Army’s eight land power units which consist of Major Combatant Commands and TDA Units, headquartered at Camp Robinson Maneuver Training

‘A guy from Guyana who migrated can move through the ranks and become a general officer – a leader of the forces; I can do it too.’” Shepherd, who wants to set a very good example of who a true leader should be,

also wants to use his new office to introduce cognitive diversity so that leaders can think of other types of officers to occupy this role in future. Formative Years Shepherd, who attended East Ruimveldt and North G e o rg e t o w n S e c o n d a r y Schools, believes that his interest in joining the military stemmed from his childhood experiences growing up in Guyana. He recalled how the GDF parades built in him a strong desire to become a soldier. To this day, Shepherd has fond memories of his time growing up in Kitty. He was about five years old when his family moved there. “The person who served as a young inspiration was our neighbour- Gobin Geer. Gobin took me on my first camping and hiking trip to complete scout standard. These inputs helped garner my love for being outdoors and a life of service,” he reflected, as he called to mind the positive impact made on him by others like the Cater, Wickham, Bollers, Cambridge, and Singh families. Further propelling his desire to become a soldier was his time as a Boy Scout at Troop 13, attached to St George’s Cathedral. He would further go on to develop friendships in primary school that only served to convince him that this was a career he wanted to pursue. His friends’ parents were in the military, so he was on the GDF compound almost daily. His fascination with being in the military just continued to grow. “Carl

Liverpool, he and I were in primary school together, and I hung out with him in the GDF compound at that time; his dad was COL Liverpool and during my high school years - the Lewis family; Anthony and Louann Lewis; their dad was Colonel Lewis. Those were very impressionable years that helped me form and solidify what I wanted to do, and their inputs planted the seeds for my future,” Shepherd expressed. These feelings never left him. In fact, when he was about 20 years old and his family moved to the US, his cousin, SFC Patrice Parkinson, encouraged him to join the US Army. “When you build a fascination, especially in your formative years, you can get engrossed in wanting to do that. I’ve been lucky

town, was a teacher at St Joseph High, but when they moved away, she eventually became a registered nurse. “I might be a general, but I salute her,” Shepherd expressed. His dad, George Shepherd, is from Britannia Village, West Coast Berbice. He was the headmaster at Campbellville and Charlestown Secondary schools and deputy headmaster at North Georgetown Secondary. “The Shepherds are from Britannia. My grandfather had a lot of brothers, so there are a lot of Shepherds in West Coast Berbice.” Shepherd is married to Zandral Shepherd, and they have five children: Anthony, Lukas, Logan, Wells and Ryan. He also has two brothers - Colin and Andre.

Shepherd, is married to Zandral Shepherd

enough to have the opportunity to pursue that dream,” he shared. A Better Life

With his kids. From left to right: Anthony, Lukas, Logan, Wells and Ryan

Shepherd said his mom, Gwendoline Griffith-Shepherd, was a true inspiration to him as she explored different pathways for her family in the mid-’80s. Wanting a better life for her family, she migrated to the US and completely changed careers to support her family. Mrs Griffith-Shepherd, from Third Street, Albert-

Leadership Programme at UG With a PHD in Executive Leadership, Shepherd is a professor at St Vincent’s University in Indiana. He has his heart set on introducing a leadership programme to the University of Guyana, which he said can possibly embody both military and civilian features. “For Guyana, I would love to introduce an organisational leadership programme. I explored the possibility

three years ago, and the person whom I was communicating with at the time was exiting the role and I never got a response from the dean of the school, so hopefully, they may take me up on the offer this time,” he shared. Awards BG Shepherd has received numerous federal and state awards. Among them were the Army Legion of Merit award, the Bronze Star, the Combat Action Badge, the Meritorious Service Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Operation Iraqi Freedom Service Medal. Additionally, he was awarded the prestigious Order of Mercury, Bronze for the highest standards of integrity, moral character, professional competence, and selflessness for those who have contributed significantly to the US Army Signal Corps. BG Shepherd is a graduate of Montgomery County Community College in Pennsylvania with an Associate Degree in Electronic Engineering and a graduate of Philander Smith College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management. He holds a Masters of Arts in Information Technology (IT) Management from Webster University and a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College. He received his Doctorate in Executive Leadership from the University of Charleston. BG Shepherd has maintained his status as a citizen-soldier by working as a civilian. He has worked with Alltel Corporation and Verizon, located in Little Rock, AR, for a total of 15 years. BG Shepherd served as the CEO of Choice Communications, located in the US Virgin Islands, for seven years and is currently a Regional Vice President of Operations at PODS. He began his military career in the US Army Reserves in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 23, 1992, and attended Basic Combat Training at Ft. Knox, KenSEE PAGE XXX

IV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Farm Village A small countryside place for simple living

LAST week the Pepperpot Magazine journeyed overland to the small farming village of Farm, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, to highlight the way of life of the locals. This quiet roadside community has houses on both sides of the public road with no internal streets. It is located just before the Mahaicony Bridge, bordered by the Fellowship and Taymouth Manor villages. Farm Village comprises a mixed group of locals who co-exist like a large family. It is a village where most of the residents are related by blood and others who live like family. The only noise heard in this very neighbourly place is from passing vehicles. The population is about

Locals of Farm Village.

1,000 and the people rear chickens, ducks, sheep, goats, and cows.

There are creole fowls and ducks all over the place, even taking brisk walks

Some of the houses in Farm Village, Mahaicony (Delano Williams photos)

along the public road, which is nothing out of the ordinary.

In Farm Village, there are many small shops conveniently located along the public road, a store, one supermarket, four wash bays, three snackettes and a handful of people who sell live and plucked chickens from their homes. Most of the villagers have kitchen gardens, and it is a very ‘green’ village in terms of trees, fruits, vegetables and flower plants, which adorn every yard space and along the parapets of the road. Farm Village is home to young professionals who do many honest jobs to have a comfortable life and also the home of 101-year-old resident, Luke Prince, called “Uncle Ben”. There are some rice

farmers in the village, and others leave the community for work in both the private and public sectors. The people of this village enjoy a simple way of life. They go about their daily routines with relative ease, and as country folk, they start their day very early in the morning. The locals of this community are very friendly and welcoming and would stop whatever they are doing to have a quick chat with visitors. Mahaicony Market area is the central hub for shopping and other activSEE PAGE XXII

V

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Entrepreneurs of Farm Village making strides in their own way

By Michel Outridge

AMESHA Halley manages the family-owned K and K Supermarket in Farm Village, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara and is people-friendly with a warm smile. She gives off a good vibe which is a plus for her business and provides employment for one young lady who operates the bill payment and money transfer section of the business. The supermarket is the only one in the community, and it is supported by the locals, who make their daily purchases of essentials. The business is conveniently located on the public road. The mother of two told the Pepperpot Magazine that the supermarket opened its doors four years ago and there are items that are reasonably priced even if a dollar less. The shelves in this supermarket are well-stocked, and there are various local and imported items to choose from. Halley is originally from Ann’s Grove, also on the East Coast Demerara but resides in Perth Village with her husband and two children. The business opens from 07:30hrs to 19:30hrs providing reliable service to customers, who are friendly and very cooperative.

Sharon Halley displaying freshly-baked pastries in her snackette

The cashier of Western Union/Bill Express at K&K Supermarket, Ashanti Calder

Halley reported that it is a very safe village; they would leave things unattended and it would be there when they get back. They would do their bulk shopping from the vans and trucks visiting on weekdays,

so it is convenient to shop right from the supermarket without having to leave. Sharon Halley, the snackette owner Meanwhile, also in the same village is the home

and business place of Sharon Halley, who has a cosy snackette on the lower flat of her residence. Her son has a water and detergent re-fill business there, as well, and she has five other children. Telling her story, Halley stated that she is from Zeskendren, Mahaicony, but when she was three years old, she came to live with her grandmother, who is from Farm Village. She added that Farm is a village of families, most people are related by blood, and there are very familiar with each other, making it a close-knit community. Halley, a very likeable woman, related that growing up in the village was nice. They walked on the train line before it was dismantled and a road was constructed. She disclosed that the train stopped its operations in 1970, and she was born in 1971, so she was unable to travel on the train but remembered the train tracks vividly. Halley pointed out that life back then was very hard.

Her grandmother was a hard worker who had a farm where they had cash crops on both sides of the train line. The 51-year-old reported that then it only had three other houses, and it was a much undeveloped, busy area, and they had a lot of trees, including coconut trees. Halley stated that her grandmother was among the first settlers in that village and she attended the Train Line Nursery School and then to Mahaicony Primary and Bygeval Secondary School. She related that, after she finished secondary school, she worked at BURMA sampling rice and paddy for some years. Thereafter, she gave birth to her first child and joined the Guyana Police Force (GPF) where she stayed for three years. Halley later went to Carnegie School of Home Economics, and after she was qualified as a chef, she worked at Caribbean Rose Restaurant in the city and went on to hold a job at Midway Snackette in Mahaicony.

The K&K Supermarket at Public Road, Farm Village, Mahaicony, east Coast Demerara (Delano Williams photos)

Inside the supermarket

The mother of six added that she, however, re-joined the GPF and spent 10 years and three months as a cop and quit when her son opened his business from their home. It was then she established her food business and became self-employed on May 1, this year. “So far, it has been fair, things not buzzing at this end, but I am trying to pay myself and still make a small profit in this business,” she said. Halley noted she likes the village because it is the quietness for her and the peace it brings; there was absolutely no drama and confusion in Farm Village and it was just what makes living there ideal. The female relatives in the family would lend support to her by assisting in the kitchen, and for that, she was very grateful since she cannot afford to hire paid help. Halley said she liked the quiet kind of life because she was a Christian and a member of the Kingdom Advance Ministry.

VI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Eking out a living in Farm Village

By Michel Outridge

FOR Alicia Grant, the prospect of working for other people was not very appealing. After returning to her country of birth, she

and lived in the city until she migrated to St. Maarten. After 21 years, she returned home to have a fresh start in life. Grant explained that after the last hurricane on the is-

store, and so far, she is doing well even though things are a bit slow at times due to the effects of the pandemic. She resides in the upper flat of the two-storey house and operates her store in the

Alicia Grant at her store (Delano Williams photos)

started her own business via a store from her home in Farm Village, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara. The mother of one told the Pepperpot Magazine that she was schooled in Guyana

land, she returned to Guyana and started a store selling household items, groceries, clothing, footwear, cosmetics and other things. Four years ago, she took the leap of opening her own

lower flat. The people in the village support the business and she is very grateful for that. Having to work from her own home is good for her. Grant would make pur-

- Doing many jobs to earn an honest living Florence Halley

chases from the vans and trucks selling goods that would visit every week and fortnight and when she has to stock up on other items, she would go to the city to buy. At this store, it is a onestop shop experience where every little item can be found and purchased with prompt service by Grant herself. She single-handedly manages the store. The only thing about working alone is there are no day-offs, and she doesn’t close the store unless she has to go out shopping. “I get by running this store every day, and I am cordial with the people here, and things are just good otherwise because they support my business,” she said. Florence Halley

Meanwhile, in the same village, just across the public road, is the home of Florence Halley, a 67-year-old who is taking care of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren these days. This city girl relocated from Regent Street to Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, 36 years ago, and it has been her home since. The mother of six told the Pepperpot Magazine that she has 15 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, some of whom were at her house that day visiting. Halley related that her parents relocated to Mahaicony after the 1964 disturbances. It has been her comfort zone since she was among the village’s first settlers. She has a kitchen garden and is rearing some meat

Grant’s Store at Farm Village, Mahaicony

James Fraser, relaxing in his verandah, his favourite spot

birds, creole fowls, and some plantains and bananas in the yard. In her younger days, Halley had several jobs, including working at a grocery shop and taking care of babies at a Day Care Centre. Otherwise, she was mostly a housewife, tending to the children and home. Her husband, a retiree, James Fraser, retired after 17 years attached to Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) as a security personnel and spends most of his days in the verandah relaxing with his feet propped up on a stool due to severe pains. James explained that two years ago, he underwent a surgical operation. Ever since, the pains in SEE PAGE X

VII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Enterprising Farm Village women are utilising their skills

By Michel Outridge

CHERYL Hamilton is an insurance agent with GTM and a resident of Farm Village, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, and is also the caregiver for her 101-year-old uncle. She has three daughters, all aspiring to maximise the opportunities within reach. The 58-year-old has been living in the village since the age of 12, following the death of her parents. “I consider my aunt and uncle my parents because I grew up with them, and they brought me up well,” she said. Recalling her life, growing up in Farm Village, Hamilton told the Pepperpot Magazine that her mother died in 1972, while her father passed away in 1976. She then went to live with her aunt and uncle in 1977. Her mother’s sister and her husband took care of her since age 12. She remembered adjusting very quickly, but the place was very different back then. It had a train line instead of the road, and it had just a few houses.

The place was busy, and it was used primarily for farming. It was a squatting area in those days, she recalled. Hamilton stated that the new road was built in 2006 and they were very pleased with that development, making it a roadside village. She added that they lacked basic utilities such as water, electricity, landline phone and internet back then. Today,she explained that all that has changed, and they are benefitting from those services. Hamilton recalled fetching water from a standpipe which was some distance away from her house, and it

the village ringing a bell to announce the death,” she said. After her aunt passed away in 2008, she took the responsibility of caring for her uncle, who is aged but still trying to cope with aches and pains. Of her three daughters, Uel Hamilton started a small business doing hair and nails and also rearing meat birds to earn. She would also prepare snacks to sell in Perth Village, at her boyfriend’s place, where they collectively rear 102 meat birds to sell. The 23-year-old and another sister would partner and make the snacks to sell every day.

took a lot of hours and walking to do that. “In those days, things were simpler. When someone in the village died, a male would walk through

They are planning to open a shop/salon from their home soon, which will be suitable for business since they reside on the public road. A n o t h e r d a u g h t e r,

‘IKEMBA’...

Cheryl Hamilton (Delano Williams photos)

Chame` Halley, is an interior decorator who graduated from Carnegie School of Home Economics. She is 19 years old and

aspires to establish her own small business someday. Meanwhile, the 30-yearold, her eldest daughter, does crochet and she lives at Mel-

va Cort. Hamilton and her three daughters are all proud to utilise their skills as entrepreneurs.

FROM PAGE II

ry,” Onika shared. “I think teaching honest history and presenting facts, regardless of how graphic, emotionally charged, controversial or offensive it [sic] may be, is a prerequisite to any intellectual and historical, honest conversation and debate that we’re going to have about reparations,” she further expressed. IKEMBA believes that there is an urgent need for persons of African heritage to reorganise, embrace their cultural identity and stand up for reparative justice for the enslavement of their ancestors. Thus, the interactive engagements planned with the

The first of three recent outreach activities at Giftland Mall

public seek to raise awareness about IKEMBA, African Caribbean history, sensitise persons about reparations and the CARICOM 10-point action plan, and promote volunteerism and strategic youth advocacy. In a statement from the

organisation, Onika pointed out how reparations is an instrument of justice and that the enslavement of persons of African heritage was possibly the greatest injustice in the world, that was not only meted out to an entire race, but also an entire region.

Organisation members with Guyanese gospel artiste, Samuel Medas

“African history cannot be reconstructed from the immediate past decade or century; it began way before that. It even began before the enslavement of our ancestors. However, there were system-

atic and institutional failures that have set back an entire race of people. We cannot go forward by selectively erasing the past. We must account for it in a way that justice is not a selective tool,

but an instrument that all can feel entitled to and catered for,” she stated. IKEMBA also contributes to cultural education and youth development.

VIII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

School teacher realises long-time dream of launching small business

By Michel Outridge

SHERNILLA Hamar is a resident of Farm, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara and a teacher attached to the Mahaicony Secondary School. The mother of two told the Pepperpot Magazine that the dream for her recently-launched small business, which sells bridal accessories and decor, accelerated to new heights when she was asked

by a friend to decorate for a birth anniversary celebration. She explained that she used to only decorate for family, but a friend asked her to provide her services, and she decided to do it but with a cost attached. Hamar added that she later realised she could earn with the small business. “After my first job for which I was paid, I realised that I can earn with the talent I have and made a

small business of it because it earns honest money,” she said. It then became a ‘side-business’ which isn’t always in demand. But she gets a lot of business during peak seasons like in June, the month of brides, or at birthdays and other events. As her name became known, she established her small business called “Hidden Talents” renting bridal chairs, sash, tables, chair cov-

ers, cake stand, veil, and much more at an unbeatable price. Hamar ’s small business started three years ago. Before COVID-19, she had catered for events in a large setting. But during the pandemic, things have been slow because some people do not host events where a lot of people are gathered at one location. Hamar would get the support she needs from her m o t h e r, P a m e l a Moriah, 61, a stayat-home person, and a mother of six. All of the things for rental are usually in storage until she Shernilla Hamar (Delano gets a ‘job’ such as a pot Magazine that she is origbaby shower, a party, a birth anniversary, a wed- inally from Calcutta Village and relocated to reside with ding or a dinner. Moriah told the Pepper- her grandmother, who is from

Home of Shernilla Hamar

‘Uncle Ben’ is 101 not out By Michel Outridge PERHAPS we may never know his secret to longevity, but one thing is for sure, Luke Prince is 101 years old and giving up is not an option for him. Prince turned 101 on May 20, and a special celebration was held for him at his home among close family members and his neighbours. He is a resident of Farm, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara and these days, he is taking life one day at a time, quoting scriptures from the Bible and singing hymns. A Seventh-day Adventist, Prince is religious and would still read the Bible. Prince is an easy-going gentleman who doesn’t joke

about his meals of soups, boiled and fried ground provisions, fresh fruits and vegetables. He is the father of one, a daughter, who resides in the city but lives with his niece, whom he fostered since she was 12 years old. In his younger days, Prince was a cash crop farmer who lived a life of simplicity and hard work. Today, his memory isn’t as sharp as it used to be, but he would remember certain things and recite stories about his life. Prince used to live in Mortice Village but relocated to several other places on the East Coast Demerara corridor before settling in Farm Village following the 1964

disturbance. The Centenarian walks with a walker and does most things for himself, such as eating, reading and his personal hygiene. A typical day for Prince would start after a bath. He would have his breakfast, then read the Bible and sing hymns. At lunch, he would have his meal, and at 18:00hrs sharp, he would request his dinner. Sometimes he socialises with his family members, and other days, he stays in his bedroom. Prince prefers fresh cow’s milk and freshcaught fish and isn’t a fan of preserved and processed foods.

Luke Prince (Delano Williams photos)

Williams photos)

Farm Village, Mahaicony. She stated that they would go to the city to do their bulk shopping, but if they needed anything, they would go to the shops in the village to make necessary purchases. Moriah describes life as quiet, simple and peaceful at Farm Village, a place where there are no strangers.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

IX

X

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Eking out a living in... FROM PAGE VI

Hazel Esraido grinding split peas to make dhal puri

Florence Halley and James Fraser at their home

his knees have been overbearing and he is walking with a walking stick. “It took me about 20 minutes to get out of the house to come to the verandah just to sit because of the pain. It is hard for me to move around. The verandah is the place where I would watch out every day and enjoy the breeze, kind of like my headquarters,” he said. James added that life is good except when it rains, the place floods. In his bedroom had some floodwaters recently, and it worries him when that happens. Apart from flooding, Fraser stated that life is quiet in that section of Mahaicony and he likes it that way. Hazel Esraido, the snackette operator Working from home is the best option for Hazel Esraido, 55, who has a roadside shop with a snackette. She would get up early and prepare egg ball,

Home of Florence Halley and James Fraser

sponge cake, salara, boiled and fried channa, dhal puri with chicken curry, and cheese cone. Esraido told the Pepperpot Magazine that she grew up in the village and she has grown to love the place. She was, at the time, grinding four pints of split peas via a manual hand mill in her shop. That would be used to make dhal puri to sell in her snackette.

She had a small glass case vending food and snacks at Midway Snackette right in Mahaicony but decided to start her own small business at her home. “I have to survive no matter what, things a bit slow, but I don’t prepare a lot of snacks, just enough to sell and the people here, as well as passing visitors who would come and buy,” she said.

Shop/snackette of hazel Esraido

XI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Business writing essentials

FOR the next few weeks, I will be giving some tips on how you can get your business content in tip-top shape using tried and true advice by industry professionals. Today’s article references ‘Business Writing Essentials’ by Clare Whitmell. In times past, when physical letters still dominated the communications sphere, emails were seen as an informal means of communication. While letters still have a place in business communications today, emails are leading the race through their light-speed delivery in communicating critical business content. Be it internal correspondence or a piece of communication to a client, customer or other external subject, emails are now the go-to for many companies in their day to day operations. Therefore, it is necessary that we develop and adhere to some standards in that type of communication to ensure that that space- though digital and essentially informal in structurecould still operate as a means of cordial, respectful, and - most of all – clear and concise interactions among professionals. Here are some points to consider when crafting emails for business: BREVITY Get straight to the point with your reason for writing. Edit carefully so that your email contains only the most important information. Less important information can be sent in a separate email, an attachment or link to which you can refer the receiver (“See information attached” or “Se details or examples at the link provided here.”) In the business word, it’s always best to assume that the person has limited time, so information needs to be communicated in the most concise way possible BE CLEAR Use a descriptive subject line that tells your reader what your email is about. Use shorter paragraphs with each paragraph focusing on the main points of the discussion. This also allows the reader to scan the document quickly.

PLAN For longer emails, a plan helps you focus on the objective of your email and keeps your ideas linked and concise, Whitmell says. This does not have to entail you mapping out your information, but deciding what the most important parts are and grouping and listing the information properly can go a long way in communicating effective messages. BE ACCURATE Use your spell check to eliminate spelling or typing errors. In a previous column, I proposed some editing tools that can really help to sharpen your writing and editing. Grammarly is still leading the list for me, and if you can, invest in the paid version for a premium editing experience and additional suggestions. Such tools also help you to save time in editing long documents. DELETE PREVIOUS EMAILS Some emails can get very long if multiple people are communicating on the subject. Unless the information needs to be continually referenced by the previous parties, it is okay to delete a thread if the email gets too long. If the subject of the email changes but it has the same recipients of a previously longer thread, change the subject and delete the old thread after hitting reply. Should someone need to catch up on the history of the email, you can refer them to the thread at another time. USE PLAIN BACKGROUNDS AND FONTS It is better to use black text on a white background to be sure that your email is easy to read. Patterns or motifs in the

- Tips for writing emails

body of the email risk making you look childish or immature – stick to a plain white background. The same goes for text. Some persons use decorative text and backgrounds in their correspondence that can really distract from the message. For business communications, keep it simple. BE POLITE Avoid writing sarcastic or angry comments. This is a piece of advice given in last week’s column as well. In business communication, politeness is key to keeping good relationships. Take some time to gather your thoughts and word them in a manner that maintains politeness. PUNCTUATION Use capital letters only where necessary, such as for names, places and days of the week. Don’t write the whole email in capital letters as this looks as if you’re shouting at your reader or avoid capitalising words that sound like proper nouns when they are not. Rule of thumb: use ‘sentence case’ to be safe.

ABBREVIATIONS Some email writers abbreviate as much as possible, making their emails difficult to understand. This is especially the case when employees overuse jargon. Internally, jargon is fine, but even then, it needs to be done within limits. However, external communications should be without jargon at all times, and where abbreviations are used, they should only be inserted after first being explained by using the whole meaning of the term. These tips should be able to bide you over in getting a basic email completed. Just remember: business is business and all the formalities you would usually use in communicating verbally or via other written platforms for business, similar considerations should be given to emails as, sooner or later, they may officially be accepted as part of the “formal” communication family. If you’re interested in contributing to this column on writing email thewritemind592@gmail.com

XII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Can being kind to yourself alleviate boredom?

THIS week’s column was indirectly suggested when a reader asked me how to pass the days when he was alone at home because he was attempting self-improvement. I think many people struggle with this, myself included. When I try to stay home on weekends to ensure a healthier life, I feel the boredom will kill me faster than the unhealthy life I

could be living. Obviously, everyone gets bored sometimes, and that can cause more serious emotions, such as loneliness, to arise. Self-improvement tends to look like staying in, saving money, consuming less alcohol and unhealthy foods, spending less time around people that may be toxic, avoiding places where you may run into these and other

toxic people and the list goes on. While these are all things that would be beneficial in the long run, it does- in the short term- equate to a pretty quiet and ‘boring’ life. I have spent a lot of time wondering what can lessen these feelings of boredom, and then I wondered if these simple tasks of trying to improve your life- can these tasks themselves alleviate boredom? I’m going to share where my thoughts went and how I decided to look at it in the hope that many of you who are trying to do the same will choose progression over what seems like a boring life. It is true that taking action to become mentally and physically healthy can take a negative toll on a few things. You do not socialise as much, and if you do, you leave places a lot earlier and more sober, and for some people, it brings the fear of missing out on any fun. Then for some, you go home and are alone and bored and wonder if this healthy life is worth it. Well, let’s discuss how self-compassion and kindness can aid in avoiding boredom and loneliness. Boredom is a universal experience, but we all experience it differently. Some days I feel bored because I had to read hundreds of pages for work or school or others simply because I

have nothing at all to do. In order to alleviate this boredom, we either do healthy or unhealthy things. Healthy meaning participating in hobbies that promote good health- such as playing a sport; unhealthy meaning participating in activities that do not promote health, such as going drinking with your friends. At its core, boredom is literally defined as a “search for neutral stimulation that isn’t being satisfied”. One can only assume, that if we don’t find it, we can only be or are going to actively look for it and hopefully, we are looking in the right places. It is important to first figure out what makes you bored. Forget one slow day, are you bored overall? Stuck in a straight daily routine that you’re tired of? Monotony can be hard to endure. Are you bored or lonely when you have to spend a day alone? When no one else is doing anything? Self-care is very in right now, but like everything else, it has been massively commercialised to be these extravagant vacations, meals or spa days. True self-care requires none of that. It is simply doing what will make you feel mentally, physically and emotionally healthy in the long run. If self-care was about instant gratification, it would be mainly unhealthy habits. Embracing the ‘boring’ parts of self-care is necessary. These can include missing out on parties to wake up early for a workout or meditation or a quiet day at home to avoid drinking and eating unhealthy foods. This can SEE PAGE XXIII easily be done (with practice!)

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XIII

XIV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Progressing through the year

JUNE is going well, but I think and I am in denial that we are heading to the halfway mark for 2022. Honestly, every month served something delicious on the table and June is already creating some unique menus. I briefly mentioned my church camp and the Finding your Centre event, a discussion on Wellness and Wellbeing in the last column. Church camp was AWESOME. Business Expo was a new addition. The leadership of Love and Faith always tries to do things that will benefit its members and the community. The various presenters were all exceptional and deposited so much that I am still digesting. One of the best decisions for June was hosting “Finding Your Centre” a discussion on wellness and well-being. It was in collaboration with the National Library as part of the

awareness for Mental Health Month. Dr. Nedd and Mr. Nazim joined me on the panel to lead the discussion. Dr.Nedd is a medical doctor with 17 years of experience in the medical field. She shared some tools that contribute to our wellness and well-being. She shared that teaching music helps her function efficiently in her daily life. “It was a joy sharing and interacting with everyone and reflecting on the many shared stories. The setting, blend of colours, and displays were awesome! Kudos to the Sonia Noel foundation!” Dr Nedd said. Nazim Hussain is a well-known media personality and the first male Guyana Today host and the manager of the Food Bank at the National Aids Programme. “Finding your Centre Programme encouraged [people] to find their sunshine so as to enhance their well-being in a turbulent world. Time stood still for a moment as hearts spoke of their journey of anguish and their ability to find tools to survive using medicine and spirituality. We have campaigns to save the animals, save the forest and for sure save the planet. Who will save the humans?” Nazim Hussein shared. Wellness is “the state of being healthy”, especially when you actively try to achieve this. Well-being, on the other hand, is considered “general health and happiness, a state of emotional/physical/psychological well-being”. May is SEE PAGE XV the time to raise awareness

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Progressing through the ... FROM PAGE XIV

of those living with mental and behavioural health issues and help reduce the stigma so many

experience. “The National Library is especially pleased to collaborate to bring awareness to this poignant issue of those who suffer from mental health. Forums like these assist in removing the stigma, and I commend the people who shared their stories.” Emily King, Chief Librarian shared. The feedback has been tremendous and you can judge for yourself by some of the remarks that were shared. “Being the youngest there made me realise that it’s important that I take ‘making a difference’ seriously. Many times I question all the opportunities that I’m being handed, but I think last evening was the last time I’ll question it, providing that my journey is not all glitter and gold, but listening to people open up and being vulnerable about their struggle allowed me to understand that. We all need a support system and I’m standing in the gap for the people on my end.” Sussana Agustine. “It truly was an empowering evening listening to raw and real stories of persons battling mental health issues and the

individual methods that they have been employing to confront the issues. Thank you, Ms Sonia, for opening up such a conversation while providing the forum for them to freely express themselves without judgement. Acknowledging the stigma, providing information and finding tailor-made solutions is the path we can take to assist victims in managing and overcoming such issues.” Alicia Daniels. “Mental illness is very prevalent in our communities and enough light is not being shone upon it. A lot of women suffer from no one to talk to, no one to confide in. We had an open conversation about our mental health and what it takes to keep ourselves together. We learned of tools that we can personally use to help ourselves. We learned of mental health and how it affects our lives and our family and how important it is to take care of us. The safe space was given for contributors to feel free to express ourselves with no judgement.” Ms. Hamilton A healthy outside starts from the inside from the cultivation of thoughts to the things we download or digest. It will be an evening to inspire, motivate and empower and that atmosphere is so needed at the moment. “You have only one life. If you are not healthy, you can’t live your life with happiness. He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything. – Arabian Proverb The theme for 2022 is “Together for Mental Health.” Let’s take the word together seriously as we continue the celebrate this beautiful life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

XV

XVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

CONFRONTING THE MONKEYPOX

IN recent years, humanity has been afflicted by several epidemics, some short-lived while others, though they had run their course, continue in a milder form. The most recent and worst is the COVID-19 which killed several millions of people, sickened many millions more and damaged and depressed the economies of all countries. COVID-19 was the first pandemic/epidemic in History, which evoked a unified international response and cooperation in confronting it. The value of such international cooperation was recognised by all countries and international organisations and has now been accepted as a norm. Though COVID-19 is fading away and is resolving itself, it still survives and citizens should not drop their guard. As COVID-19 is fading away, another epidemic, Monkeypox, has emerged. Monkeypox is not a new disease and is endemic to certain parts of the African continent. Science is aware of this virus. Now, however, it has suddenly appeared worldwide and there is fear that it will grow into epidemic proportions. Gaining from the COVID-19 experience, international contact and cooperation have immediately started. Primates or monkeys generally transmit the virus, and family members and health workers who may have close contact with an infected person are at risk of being infected. The medical description of the symptoms of Monkeypox is: “acute skin rash with maculopapular (flat based lesions) to vesicles (fluid-filled blisters), pustules and subsequent crusting affecting the face, palms of the hand, soles of the feet and the rest of the body. . . this may be accompanied by headache, acute onset of fever, myalgia, back pain, asthenia and lymphadenopathy”. We did not try to elucidate the medical jargon since this would have involved a great deal more time and space, but all readers would have had a fairly clear idea of it from the definition as it stands. The infection takes about three days to overtake the body fully and would resolve itself in two to three weeks. Monkeypox is not as deadly a disease as COVID-19, but it is a very painful and uncomfortable ailment which could leave lifelong scars on the skin. Though specific vaccines have not been developed for Monkeypox, smallpox and chickenpox vaccines, have proven at least 80 percent effective and are being used by several countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been urging the exchange of information among countries and assisting each other with their vaccine stocks. Ms Sylvie Briand, the WHO Director for Global Infections Hazard Preparedness, remarked: “We think the key priority currently is trying to contain this transmission in non-endemic countries. Needed measures include the early detection and isolation of cases and contact tracing”. The WHO is advising against mass vaccination but is recommending targeted vaccination on those who were in contact with infected persons such as family members and health workers. Infected persons should be isolated. The Guyana Health Services, under the leadership of Dr Frank Anthony, immediately took action to contain Monkeypox. A circular was issued to all medical practitioners instructing them to be on the lookout for patients who may show symptoms of the disease and to report these. Appropriate treatment should be administered, including instructions about the necessity for isolation. The Ministry of Health has also acquired a supply of vaccines adequate for any emergency. Guyanese should not be unduly alarmed about this Monkeypox epidemic since early action has been taken on it, and it is under control.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XVII

Nature, God, or the gods we believe designed men to lead

I GREW up hearing coded conversations in our poetic Creole language, terms like, “He bright; ‘e got good qualifications, but he can’t fix a squeak pon ‘e bed.” I later learnt that this saying had several meanings, but one of them had a literal interpretation that I have witnessed with some young adult males. If challenged to fix a cracked or broken bed board, they cannot mentally recognise a solution to the problem. When I was in secondary school, you had to do woodwork and leathercraft, along with the academic timetable that included ‘Art and Reading’. I found these skills to later be useful tools during my bachelor days. By that time, the wooden structure had replaced imported metal beds. This soon required you to have the basic tools in-house, and to understand how to apply them. Then there were those weird childhood jokes that adults made: “Duh last one look like de milkman pass deh.” This translated into the expectation that a young man should know, or needs to know, how to fix basic household predicaments, within reason. Electrical, mechanical or technical items should be transferred to a professional, once that person is separated from the ‘quacks’ (and there are plenty of those around, especially in the home-building business). This meant that our young men needed to understand the difference between the purpose of a mallet and a hammer, or someone else will have to address the obvious necessary manhood chore frustrations, which could lead to the “milkman” colloquialism. I had a friend who died some years ago, but before he passed, whenever he visited my home, he would always joke about what he perceived to be my being domesticated, because I was washing pots and plates. On one occasion, I decided to close the door on this “domesticated tantalise”. I waited until he brought it up away from home. This happened outside of the Metropole Cinema, and in response to his taunt, I asked him if it was reasonable to request baked fish and chicken rather than stewed, and have the wife in and out of the oven, then expect her to deal with the washing of the wares at the same time? And he took the bait and said, “Wuh wrong wid duh?” If you can remember, at Metropole Cinema, most of the vendors were women. They turned on him; called him an idiot, a monster, and other names related to the milkman’s usual victim. To his credit, this bit of wisdom was not taught to him; he was his mom’s only child. Meanwhile, I saw my Godfather, with whom I grew up, wash and help out in the kitchen, especially while my Godmother was baking bread and doing other household chores. It was he who’d explained to me the dangers of hot-and-cold, thereby justifying the separation of chores. My friend didn’t have that enlightening experience; he’d benefitted from a pampered, protected childhood due to the absence of his father. His view was naïve and out of ‘sync’ with the symmetry of the necessary cooperation between couples raising a family.

RAISING ‘ALL-ROUND SONS’ One of the things I’ve heard women, including my wife, always say is that women can’t raise ‘all-round sons’. Of course, opinions will differ, because children, whether male or female, will adopt misguided notions, regardless of parental guidance, even deceiving parents

in the process. Some years ago, a book came out along a similar vein, ‘Over-schooled and Undereducated’ by John Abbot. Abbot was writing in the context of England, relating his experience as a young teacher who took his students to study Agriculture in rural pre-revolutionary Iran. After a week, the village Headman told him, “These young men are so tall, strong and beautiful, but what use are they! They cannot reap, they cannot ride a donkey, they cannot make a fire, they cannot even sew or sweep or cook like our girls!” To evaluate what the Headman said about our reality, first, I have to admit that when I read this book in 2020, I exhibited some level of conceit. I used my school experiences; bush-cook days, growing up doing chores, life as a bachelor, and the experiences of my childhood friends to conclude that we in Guyana were outside of that predicament. I have since learnt that the cultural values have changed,

especially after a Headmistress invited a group that I had created in 2015; a group called RESCU, to visit and lecture at the school, especially to the boys. This was the second Headmistress that had requested our visit. with young males the priority. In both cases, the lectures were interactive; it was a wake-up call to both myself and McRae. We had no idea what was transpiring in the very world we had left behind so many decades ago. Change is expected, but intense retrogression is troubling. It is not enough to just conclude that “young people ain’t listening”. Many of us understand the dogmas about respecting one’s elders, and what’s off-limits for elders, but the modern cult of conspicuous consumption has invaded, and is consuming at all costs, and there are not enough souls who are not too frustrated to care and recognise that we have a part to play.

XVIII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

THE COLOUR OF AMETHYST II

CHRIS twirled the wedding ring on his finger absent-mindedly as he waited patiently for his wife at their favourite restaurant. Today they were meeting for a special lunch because it was his birthday with no party or dinner plans, because he had to work late that night. “Another milestone,” he mused, “Further and further away from where I had wanted to be.”

He sighed deeply and looked at the ring on his other hand, the gem, birthstone of Piscean - the colour of Amethyst. It was a birthday gift from his best friend, a very special person in his life, but that was almost 22 years ago. “Such a long time,” he thought, “I wonder where she must be now and what she has become.” High school days, so close then and now so far,

memories like vintage wine. He had left when she had said ‘no’ to his marriage proposal, trying his utmost then not to feel hurt because she had, over the years, become his world. It had been difficult for him, but he consoled himself with the thought that it was meant to be that way- a loss that gave him a stronger resolve to conquer life as a man on his own and new plans to draw.

He had moved far away when she got married, and it was there he found someone to share his life. A beautiful, intelligent young woman from the same company he worked for and on the day of his wedding, he had said a silent ‘thank you’ to his friend who had helped him to find his way. What she had done for him was beyond special, a selfless sacrifice that lived deep in his heart all those years and always was the thought, “I wonder if I’ll ever see her again.” He saw his wife as she entered the restaurant with their two pretty daughters and he rose to greet the three pretty women in his life, his family. An exalted feeling always filled his heart when they were together anywhere, for he knew he had something beautiful. The birthday lunch was wonderful with the three people closest to him who had made him a husband and a father. If he had to look back to his life as a young man, the struggles and taunts he had to endure to today what he had gained in life it seemed like a miracle. The one person he had to thank for that was not there with him but living her life someplace else, maybe with her own family. The separate paths fate had designated for them. Maria wrote that day in her diary, a beautiful little poem for her friend’s birthday and standing at the window. She read it hoping the words would fly with the wind to find him, wherever he was, just to say ‘Happy Birthday’. She had, over the years, written little poems for all the beautiful moments in life, the rich blessings of motherhood, the sublimity of love and cherished memories of those gone to the beyond. Words became her secret companion. Words gave her warmth and hopes; standing on the highest mountain, touching the passing clouds,

looking at the world below, words - such infinite power. Three more years went by, time an endless flow as the two friends thousands of miles apart lived their lives with their families. They had not the time to ponder on the one missing part of their lives that may stay lost, but life does sometimes come with an unexpected surprise, and this one was an invitation from the old student’s association for a class reunion. Maria read the invitation a few times before she could digest the fact that she would be seeing her old classmates after 25 years. “This is so great,” she exclaimed, excited. Chris, too could barely conceal his excitement and showing his wife the invitation, he said, “Isn’t this great?” I’ll be seeing my old classmates.” That Saturday night in August with attendees flying in from different countries was an unforgettable experience- the laughter and happiness; memories rekindled of high school days. Maria arrived late, having to drive from the city and delayed by two long traffic

stops along the way. Chris who had flown in the day before from New York, was there from the beginning and two hours later, his hopes began to sink that she would not be coming. He had looked at the door probably a hundred times and sighing deeply, he turned to the bar for a drink the same time Maria walked in. “ Vo d k a o n t h e rocks,” he ordered and was about to have his drink when a familiar voice called his name, “Chris.” That voice was a beautiful sound he had not heard in a long time, and turning, he saw her standing there in a little blue dress, fair, petite, and pretty as he had known her. She was smiling, a happy glow in her eyes and she said, “It’s so nice seeing you.” He looked at her stunned and before he could say anything, she hugged him impulsively, the first time ever she was that close to him and holding her for a moment, he said, “That’s a great welcome, and I miss you too.” They both had tears in their eyes, just looking at each other, not knowing what more to say, and in the next moment, he lost her as her friends took her with them. It was a long time before she was free to talk to him again, sitting alone with him at a table in a corner. “I can’t believe I’m seeing you again,” Chris said, happy beyond words, “Are you still married? Do you have children? What about your career, your dreams?” The questions were tumbling over each other and Maria sipping a virgin Pina Colada looked at him, and smiling she said calmly, “Take a deep breath and relax. We have time to talk.” All night they chatted SEE PAGE XXIV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XIX

Children’s COVID-19 vaccines now A BATCH of the special paediatric COVID-19 vaccines needed for children aged five to 11 years old finally arrived in Guyana last week, and the administration of these vaccines has begun. The immunisation of this group of children represents the near end of getting all people protected against the deadly disease, and I believe that children should get the ‘jabs’. From the onset, it must be acknowledged that this is the first time children in Guyana would be able to benefit from these vaccines. First, vaccines were only available to adults. Then, as of August last year, teenagers started getting the Pfizer ‘jabs’. It was envisaged that children would start receiving vaccines from November last year, but global shortages bedevilled those efforts. This meant that in January, when, arguably, Guyana saw its worst wave of COVID-19 to date, children did not have vaccine protection, and were squarely in harm’s way, unless other protective measures (wearing a mask, constant sanitsation, etc.) were rigidly maintained. Now, however, Guyana has received 52,800 doses of the special children’s Pfizer vaccines as a donation from the Government of Spain, which can allow 26,400 children to be vaccinated (because the vaccine is given in two doses). Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony was quoted in reports as assuring the public that once the ‘jabs’ are administered without challenges, the government will work with additional partners to get more. What I believe is noteworthy as well is that the Health Minister also related that about one-thirds of Guyana’s total of more than 60,000 COVID-19 cases have been children. Conservative estimates would illustrate that this means about 20,000 children contracted the virus. There are at least 15 known paediatric COVID-19 deaths. I believe that parents should use this opportunity to get their children vaccinated. It is, quite literally, one of the few ways to keep children protected from COVID-19. And yes, protection is still much-needed. It has been more than two years since the spread of the novel coronavirus was declared a pandemic; the deadly virus itself has been spreading for a bit longer. With growing population immunity; some natural and some through widespread vaccination, we are now seeing fewer deaths and infections than we once did. But that does not mean the pandemic is over, because it certainly is not. Earlier this week, during his COVID-19 update, Dr. Anthony also noted that there are about 1,000 active COVID-19 cases across the country. That, in itself, is a concerning number, but exacerbating concerns is that the Health Minister believes that the number of people infected might be much greater, due to limited testing or unreported positive cases. If nothing else persuades you that it is still crucial to get children vaccinated, it should be those statements from Dr. Anthony. Essentially, there are scores of infected people interacting with us each day, and the possibility exists that the coronavirus can spread and infect any one of us. Getting children vaccinated, just like getting adults and teenagers vaccinated, presents all with a good opportunity at helping to keep children safe, and helping to keep each other safe. Before I end this column, permit me to acknowledge that hesitation, anxiety, and even fear are all normal feelings when mulling whether to get vaccinated. Though assurances of the safety of these vaccines have been plenty, these life-saving medical tools are still new, and I will concede that some amount of anxiety is warranted. Despite being new, the ‘jabs’ have also been proven to safeguard people from experiencing the more serious and life-threatening symptoms of COVID-19. Specifically for children, research has shown that the special Pfizer vaccines are about 91 per cent effective in preventing COVID-19 in children. And these vaccines for children have been approved and recommended by foreign regulators who have long informed medical decisions in Guyana. So all-in-all, I hope that each parent capitalises on the opportunity to get their children vaccinated, and provide them

with the much-needed protection against COVID-19. Of course, consulting with a medical professional, such as a child’s paediatrician, is a prudent decision, particularly for children with underlying conditions requiring special assess-

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

XX

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

RISING UP FROM DROUGHT TOGETHER

ONE might think that Guyana, the land of many waters, surely could not experience drought or desertification. Yet, our country is particularly vulnerable to drought, or prolonged periods without water, as we experience two very distinct wet and dry seasons. It is globally recognised that human activity has been influencing the global climate system through global warming, which could alter the rainfall patterns of tropical countries like Guyana. In fact, droughts affect more than 55 million people every year around the world. The United Nations states that drought is one of the most destructive natural disasters in terms of the loss of life arising from impacts, such as wide-scale crop failure, wildfires and water stress. In addition to drought, human activities also contribute to desertification - the degradation of land in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. It occurs because dryland ecosystems, which cover over one-third of the world’s land area, are extremely vulnerable to overexploitation and inappropriate land use. Poverty, political instability, deforestation, overgrazing and bad irrigation practices can all undermine the productivity of the land. For these reasons, the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is observed yearly to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification.

The day is a unique moment to remind everyone that land degradation neutrality is achievable through problem-solving, strong community involvement and cooperation at all levels. This year, the theme of the International Day against Desertification and drought is “Rising up from drought together”, and will be observed on June 17. The global observance of the event will take place in Spain, a country that is particularly vulnerable to drought. THE LOW CARBON DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY By now, you know that the LCDS 2030 is being updated to reflect the current global and local environment. A key part of the Strategy looks at water resources management, and how

Guyana can better prepare for the impacts of climate change, including impacts to water resources. Among the measures proposed are water management plans tailored for each administrative region. The LCDS 2030 also aims to create an ecosystem economy which balances low impact mining and forestry to enhance employment and income generation opportunities, including improving planning SEE PAGE XXI and recovery in mining areas,

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

RISING UP FROM...

FROM PAGE XX

and exploring options for land reclamation and reforestation of mined areas to better manage land resources. MANAGING LAND RESOURCES IN GUYANA The management of land resources, implementation of Guyana’s action plans to combat desertification and drought and ensuring our obligations to the UNCDD are met fall mainly with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission. The Commission is supported by other government and non-governmental organisations, including the EPA, the Office of Climate Change and Environment, the Guyana Forestry Commission, the Food and Agricultural Organisation, and the United Nations Development Programme. To complement the management of land resources, water resources are managed by the Guyana Water Inc. (commercial), the Ministry of Housing and Water (policy), the Hydrometerological Service (construction of wells), and the Environmental Protection Agency (freshwater resources and discharge from operations). Did you know? The word land is mentioned six times in our national anthem, and eight if you count the other words associated with land. SOURCES 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.

XXI

XXII

Farm...

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022 FROM PAGE IV ities, as well as the section where the Mahaicony Hospital is located. There are many businesses and places

The village.

The signboard with the village name.

where the people would frequent. Farm Village is a lovely place. The residents are familiar with each other, and most of them have lived all their lives in that community, where they come together to host events or lend support to each other in their time of need. The people of Farm Village are definitely not idle and get up and do many things to earn, even if it is right from their homes. Many women in this village would start their day very early in the morning by preparing snacks to sell from their small roadside shops to passers-by and locals. Farm Village is a quiet, small but good place to reside, and the locals will not have it any other way since it is their place of residence, a safe village where crime is unheard of, and doors are left unlocked.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

Can being kind to ... FROM PAGE III

using self-compassion. Being self-compassionate aids us in understanding and appreciating our own self-worth. It is the antidote to self-criticism as it allows us to understand that we are not alone in our struggles. If we are able to assume our self-worth, and recognise that anguish is a natural part of the human experience, we are able to incite more self-love as well as a connection to others. If we can genuinely feel this way, would we feel bored doing calm and healthy things alone? Would we feel the need to go out and participate in things that are unhealthy for us? Would we feel the need to spend time with people who bring toxicity in our lives? There are a few ways to work on self–compassion, and they all take daily practice before it feels natural. The first thing to do is begin noticing and changing any negative thoughts or selftalk. Many of us are extremely self-critical, but we can reframe these to allow for more kindness. An example, I’ve heard many people call themselves failures or stupid if they do not achieve something as perfectly as they wanted to. I always try to get them to reframe it by saying, “While I did not get the result I wanted, I am self-aware enough to know where I went wrong and am resilient enough to try again.” Believe me, it works wonders and goes a very long way.

I always tell people to speak to themselves the way you would speak to a friend. If they came to you with a problem, you wouldn’t call them a failure nor tell them to give up. Think of the words of advice and encouragement you would give to them, and then turn that inward. Also, if I have a point to prove, I always look for the science behind it. A research study showed that boredom sparks and greatly increases productivity and creativity. Scientists studied hundreds of people within a wide age range, splitting them into groups of two. They gave one group boredom-inducing tasks of sorting beans into colours and they let the others interact with each other, play games and do interesting craft activities. After, they asked all participants to do the same task- to come up with excuses for being late that wouldn’t make someone look bad. Ironically, the participants who were sorting the beans and reported being extremely bored doing so performed better on the idea-generating tasks, coming up with a larger quantity as well as more creative excuses. Therefore, if you are waiting for brilliance to strike, try getting bored first. Being kind to yourself is easier than it seems. Think of small things that make you genuinely happy, that bring you healthy joy and do them as often as possible. Also look at the time alone as a good opportunity for kind self-reflection. What are your true values and goals? Are there any more changes you’d like to make in your life? Just remember that practising a ‘boring’ self-compassionate lifestyle can help us stay our best, healthiest, energised and more resilient for those times when we do choose to indulge in a more ‘interesting’ time. Thank you for reading, and please continue to send topic suggestions to caitlinvieira@gmail.com

XXIII

XXIV

THE COLOUR OF... FROM PAGE XVIII

with friends, danced and talked until they were the only two people left, a night neither wanted to end, because tomorrow they would be walking again, along separate paths. “What happened to your ambition to be a lawyer?” he asked her. “There was a crisis in my family and I gave up my dreams to support them.” “Always making sacrifices for others,” he said with a wry smile, “And what about your life? What have you gained?” “Not much,” she replied

casually, as though it didn’t matter, “My children have become the richness of my life so I now dream for them, not me.” He looked at her for a long moment, then taking her hand, he kissed it, deep admiration in his eyes, “You are indeed special, in my eyes there is no other like you.” His words ignited a warmth that flowed through her body and she felt a touch of happiness that had been missing from her life, just sitting there talking with him. “I’m so sorry we have to say goodbye again,” she said,

a sad look in her eyes. “No,” he shook his head, “Not after 25 years, we can’t. We both have families we love but we will stay in touch because as friends, we share something that is unique.” “I like that,” she said, smiling again, having found again that wonderful person she had given up with whom she shared so many common interests. They said ‘good night’ until another time soon, he wearing a ring and she a pendant, emblems of a bond they share as Pisceans, the colour of Amethyst.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XXV

XXVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XXVII

XXVIII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XXIX

XXX

Moving up the...

tucky. His career in the Arkansas Army National Guard began as an enlisted soldier in October 1995, and in 1997, he enrolled in the Officer Candidate School (OCS) Class 41, where he received his commission and was appointed Second Lieutenant in August 1998. He was assigned as a Signal Officer in the 212th Signal Battalion, in Little Rock, AR, where he served as a Platoon leader and subsequently as a company executive officer for four years before being promoted to Captain and transferring to 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) as a Signal Officer with the 1-153 IN BN, located in Malvern, AR.

With his cousin, SFC Patrice Parkinson, who encouraged him to join the US Army

BG Shepherd served with the 1-153 IN BN as the Signal Officer for three years, deploying into Iraq in 2004 to 2005. Upon his return from Iraq, he was appointed Company Commander of the HHC of the 1-153 In-

fantry Company. After his assignment as a Company Commander, BG Shepherd was selected to serve as the Brigade Signal Officer for the 39th IBCT. He subsequently deployed for a second time to

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022 SEE PAGE III

Baghdad, Iraq, responsible for Camp Victory’s post signal capabilities; command, control, communications and computers (C4). Following his redeployment from Iraq, BG Shepherd was assigned as the Battalion Executive Officer of the newly created Brigade Special Troops Battalion (BTSB), located in Conway, AR, before transitioning back into the Army’s signal operations as the Systems Chief and Deputy G6 Officer. In 2015, BG Shepherd assumed command of the Second and Third Battalions at the 233rd Regional Training Institute and finally took command of the 233rd RTI Regiment in

With his mom, Gwendoline Griffith-Shepherd

2017. His commands at RTI are the longest back-toback commands totalling five and half years. After command at 233rd RTI,

BG Shepherd assumed his most recent role as the State’s Deputy Chief of Staff – G6 position.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XXXI

XXXII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XXXIII

XXXIV

THOUGHT FOR TODAY Numbing the pain will only make it w for a while orse when you finally feel it. ALBUS PERCIVA L WUL-

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

June 12, 2022 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome dear friend. With next year’s sitting in view, start a “concentration improvement” drive. Do away with all timewasters. Decide roughly your time on

task. Think about what you must do and why. Organise a well-equipped workspace. Break big tasks into separate activities. During a workbreak, reflect on what you have been learning, and even discuss it with study partners. In the end, make up questions about the main things you have learned and answer them. Be wise. Love you. THE PASSAGE Read the following passage carefully and then answer the questions below. Homework Interrupted Tabu looked up from his book, in a lazy way at first, to see what had made the noise. At an arm’s length away from his chair, something moved. A shape glided smoothly along the window frame. He saw a flat head held up by a slender neck. A puff adder! The snake stopped and lay without moving. It looked dead. But it was trying to sense if any food was in the room. Tabu felt trapped in his chair, yet he knew that he must warn his sister. He thought of what his father had told him so often. He wanted to whisper, but his mouth and tongue were dry with shock. He dared not move. If only she would look at him! Masya must have felt there was something strange about the silence, and when she saw the fear on his face, she swiftly shifted round, looking at his glazed eyes. She moved her heads to see what those eyes were fixed on, then covered her mouth to stifle her gasp of terror. 1. What had the snake come for? 2. Why would it stop and lie without moving? 3. What made Tabu feel trapped in his chair? 4. What effects did Tabu’s fear have on him? 5. Why would he wish to warn his sister? What do you think that Tabu wanted to warn his sister to do or not to do? 6. What do you think that Tabu’s father had told him so often? 7. What caused Masya to look at Tabu? 8. Why did she cover her mouth? 9. What would you have done in Tabu’s place? THE PASSAGE Read the following passage carefully and then answer the questions below. Surrogate parenting is another option that has been explored in the last decade, although the legal and ethical issues surrounding this method have not been fully resolved. Surrogate parent-

ing can take several forms. Typically, an infertile couple will make a contact with a woman (the surrogate parent), who will then be artificially inseminated with semen from the expectant father. In some instances, the surrogate will receive an embryo from the donor parents. The surrogate carries the fetus to term and returns the newborn to the parents. In some cases, women have served as surrogates for their close relatives. Because of the concerns about true “ownership” of the baby, surrogate parenting may not be a particularly viable or legal option for many couples. 1. What is the meaning of the following word groups: surrogate, decade, infertile couple, conception, expectant father, donor parents, fetus, legal option. 2. What is the topic of the paragraph? 3. What reasoning is there in the closing sentence of the paragraph? 4. Write a summary of what is told in the passage. WRITING LETTERS OF OPINION NOTES: Letter writing is one way in a democracy to make others know your personal or professional views and wishes. It takes the most effective letters to get the most attention. Know your kind of letter: A letter of opinion intended for the editor of a magazine, disputing the content of an article is personal in nature. Example of a letter personal in nature: Addresses & Date Dear Mr. Klass, I recently read your column on the Bedford Champs. I am stating my displeasure with the way you described their situation this season. It is obvious that they are not excelling, but they are in a tight season. Obvious too, the more enthusiastic Bedford supporters expect them to win the Bedford-Bishop Cup every year, but with the new faces during this external examination season, right-thinking fans know the likely outcome. I feel that you should have been more sympathetic towards them. Their manager plainly said on television that they are trying their best; I support him. We Bedfordians should voice facts and opinions to boost their morale for splendid wins ahead. Yours sincerely, Ella Grooms Look at these following guides to writing letters of opinion. 1. Keep the letter as brief as possible. 2. State your subject clearly from the outset. 3. Explain your stand on the question that you are discussing. 4. Advance in an orderly fashion the arguments supporting your opinion. 5. Avoid abusive terms or violent language. Keep the general tone good-tempered. Be forceful but not tactless. 6. Avoid writing from a prejudiced viewpoint; do your best to be fair. 7. Be as ready to write letters of praise as of criticism or condemnation. 8. Avoid attacking the writer of the letter. 9. Let your letter of opinion be professional if you want to be taken seriously. GRAMMAR Vocabulary – use of context clues The day dawned dark and gloomy, and the weather was a preview of things to come. When Emil went out of the barn, he saw a tendril of smoke curl from under the door. Racing inside, he found his father attempting to beat out a fire that had started with the overturned lantern. Only after the two had put out the flames did Emil see the blood on his father’s hands. Apparently, the broken lantern had cut the farmer badly. The loss of blood had made the hand devoid of feeling, so that, in the excitement, the farmer had not even noticed the deep wound. Now he grew suddenly dizzy and collapsed on the floor. Filled with apprehension, Emil rushed his father to the doctor. The farmer was wounded at the juncture between the thumb and forefinger. A translucent piece of skin covered the wound, so that the blood looked even darker than it normally did. The farmer’s hand was calloused by years of arduous labour; the sun had made even his palms swarthy. It was therefore difficult for the doctor to find the edges of the wound. When she did, she pulled them back with a retractor and cleansed the wound thoroughly. Then she bandaged the wound with a piece of gauze. What to Do: Twin each line with its representative word in boldface. a wispy curl of thread; a thick, lightweight cloth; an instrument for holding*** back the edges of a wound; carried away by strong feeling; fear of what may occur; anxiety; dark or sun tanned; an indication; the place at which two things are joined; allow light to pass through but not completely clear; thickened and hardened in spots; not possessing; lacking.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022

XXXV

Oral health in children

THIS month is Oral Health Month in the United States, and being here in the US for a short visit, I have been witnessing the tremendous emphasis placed on children. The general message is that good oral care is critical every day in children. The first comprehensive study on Guyana’s oral health called oral diseases in children a “silent epidemic.” Thousands of school hours are lost each year to dental-related illnesses. In fact, it was pointed out that dental care is the most prevalent unmet health need among Guyanese children, although in recent years, much has been done in the preventive aspect. A major part of the Dental Health Service’s strategy is launching the effort to educate children and parents about preventing dental diseases, including periodontal diseases in children. This is the most important factor because oral problems can impact children’s self-esteem and lead to problems eating, speaking and attending to learning. Common dental problems in children are cavities and gingivitis, which are found in most of our children. When these problems are not caught early and treated, they can develop into more severe problems and cause unnecessary suffering. However, much of the time, oral problems are avoidable problems. It is estimated that 37 percent of children have not had a dental visit before starting school. When children don’t see dental professionals, they miss the opportunity to have problems caught early before they escalate into larger, more expensive problems to treat. Parents miss the opportunity to learn how to promote good oral habits in their children. In addition to advising regular dental visits that include a periodontal examination, the Health Ministry offers these tips to parents to help ensure a good oral health in children: 1. Establish good oral health habits early. When your child is 12 months old, you can begin using toothpaste when brushing his or her teeth. However, use only a pea size portion on the brush and press it into the bristles so your child won’t eat it. And, when the gaps between your child’s teeth close, it’s important to start flossing. 2. Serve as a good role model by practising good oral health care habits yourself. 3. Check your child’s mouth for any signs of gum disease, including bleeding gums, swollen and bright, red gums, gums that are receding away from the teeth and bad breath. 4. Make sure your child consumes a balanced diet. Studies have shown insufficient levels of calcium and vitamin c make people more susceptible to periodontal disease. 5. Educate your child regarding the health risks of using tobacco products. Smoking is the number one preventable risk factor for periodontal disease. If you are having difficulty getting your kid excited about the trip to the dentist, here is a simple guide. a. Start early. The younger, the better. When they start to speak sentences is the ideal time. b. Make the visit fun and educational. Do not wait until they have a dental problem. Tell them about how important it is to care for their teeth. c. Give positive reinforcement. Bring along an item such as their favourite teddy. d. Play Pretend Dentist. Have them open their mouth and pretend to examine their teeth. Tell them that the dentist will do the same. e. Give your kids some control. Let them lead the way into the appointment room. f. Emphasise the importance of healthy teeth. Explain that if they do not brush, cavities will destroy their teeth. g. Create a Safety Signal. Stay in the room and converse with them. Never threaten nor promise a reward.

XXXVI

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, June 12, 2022