Sunday, January 13, 2019
Director/Producer Ryan Singh
Ready to teach! Guyanese Director/Producer wishes to pass on world-class skills
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Georgetown under a microscope in 2019
Rehabilitation work-in-progress on Bourda Street which for years was in a deplorable condition (Photo by F.Q.Farrier - 2018)
From left, one of the controversial Parking Meters, the Avenue of the Republic canal, a piece of heavy-duty equipment and in the background, the deteriorating City Hall (Photo by F.Q. Farrier - 2018)
By Francis Quamina Farrier FOLLOWING the hotly contested November 12, Local Government Elections (LGEs) last year, the (approximate) 202,000 citizens of Georgetown got a new Chief Citizen in the person of Pandit Ubraj Narine, who received the Mayoral Chain from out-going Mayor Patricia Chase-Green. There was much work Mayor Chase-Green had on her hands, and there is equally much work for Mayor Narine, as Georgetown slowly inches its way to regaining its lost glory. But it is an uphill task in a city which falls below sea level whenever the tide rises. There are so many things which the current citizens should be grateful for; the Georgetown we inherited is one of the best laidout cities on the planet, for starters. `In past times, Georgetown used to be known as, “The Garden City of the Caribbean”. The city lost that impressive title about 30 years ago when standards began to tumble. However, during the past three years, there has been a brave effort to turn things around. Citizens should now collectively, aim for an even greater celebrated capital. The Georgetown of 50 and more years ago, was clean and tidy and never flooded the way it has been doing in more recent times. So, what is the future of this city as we continue into 2019 and beyond? What would Georgetown look like in the next five, 50 and 100 years from now? A lot depends on how we maintain and develop it now and in the coming years, for ourselves and for generations to come. A majority of the citizens of Georgetown are hoping that this Capital City of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana will continue to improve in terms of cleanliness and quietness during 2019. For well over two decades, Georgetown had descended from being regarded as “The Garden City of the Caribbean”, to the dubious title of “The Garbage City”, as well as being one of the NOISIEST cities in the CARICOM group of nations. It is disappointing for older citizens who knew the city when the environment was always as clean as a whistle and flowers bloomed everywhere. Some recalled the period when there used to be various prizes for Best Kept Properties of varying categories. Those were the days when even Tenement Yards were kept clean and tidy. So the years of garbage and flooding in the city of Georgetown, pains many of the older citizens who had seen and lived in such a beautiful and well-maintained city. Change is always a reality - but change is only welcomed when it brings with it, betterment. So how was life in Georgetown for citizens during 2018? The big clean-up in the latter months of 2015, after over two decades of neglect, had brought a breath of fresh air as tons of garbage were removed. Many silted-up drains and canals were cleaned. Parapets over-run with grass and weeds were attended to, as the city of Georgetown was given that much needed and long overdue makeover, and for many citizens, it was like wakening up from a nightmare and greeting a new dawn. Turn to page VIII ►►►
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
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Meet John Marshall… Teaching arts and craft despite losing his sight Two of John’s students, Claudette Ramsey Isaacs (right), and Ruth Baveghems, who have been making good use of their training
Items John made out of paper and cardboard
By Telesha Ramnarine JOHN Marshall was born with retinitis pigmentosa, an eye disease that eventually rendered him totally blind. But just what accounts for his ability to be art and craft instructor? Why does he happily embrace challenges to be able to teach others who are blind or visually impaired? John shared his story with the Pepperpot Magazine a few days ago at the Guyana Society for the Blind on High Street, where he turned up for his usual Thursday morning teaching session. He lived in the United States of America for many years but returned home in 2017 with a passion to not only develop his art and craft skills; but determined to help people in similar circumstances as himself to learn the trade, so that they too can become financially independent. Soon after returning to Guyana, John started to volunteer his services at the ‘Society.’ Because he is not paid for his work, he continues to invest whatever is needed to make
the programme succeed. With things getting a little tough lately, though, he is now exploring whether there might be any individual or business to sponsor his programme, or otherwise, contribute in some way so that he can be able to do more for himself and others. John was born and raised in Georgetown but migrated to the USA when he was about 13 years old with his parents and siblings. He recalls that he was still a boy when he started losing his sight. The sad part about it was that his parents and others did not understand what was happening to him. “I was running into walls and stuff, but guess what they were saying? ‘Oh, you’re just wild and clumsy. They didn’t realise that I was losing my sight. The disease progressed so slowly that I didn’t even know I was going blind.” When he was about 36 years old, he was driving in the USA, as usual, one day when he got into a major accident. His insurance
company suggested that he check his eyes because he started to experience problems with his vision after hitting his head. It was then that he received the diagnosis. John said that the doctors’ claim that there’s no cure for him has never swayed his belief that he can be cured. In fact, since returning home and using certain local medication, he feels that he’s been getting better. “I always believe there’s a cure for my eye disease. When I lost my sight, I couldn’t drive or do anything I did before. When I came home, I couldn’t see anything, but I have been using bush tea, herbs and raw honey and to tell you the truth, my vision is starting to come back a little.” A PERFECT SHOE Explaining how his interest developed in art and craft, John recalled that one day while in the USA, he was tearing a piece of paper to put between his bible as a marker. “Someone told me that the piece I
dropped on the floor was a perfect shoe. I tore a perfect shoe. So I picked it up and one day I was sitting, and the thought came to me that I can actually make this show out of paper and cardboard and I started doing it.” John learned on his own but took a sixmonth course to help refine his skills. “While in the USA, I made Bugs Bunnies- six feet tall, mannequins, shoes, jewellery boxes, 15 x 15 dollhouses out of paper and cardboard,” he said. John thought about returning home to start up a business. “I wanted to bring back some of the things I learned out there to help people here; to teach the blind, because the blind has been forgotten and pushed to the side. People think that because you’re visually impaired or blind, you’re no good to the world and society anymore; that you can’t do anything. So I wanted to bring my arts and craft programme here so they can become self-employed; because once they learn this skill, they can start their own business. Turn to page XXXI►►►
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
An unforgettable experience A foreign land through the eyes of visitors The family posing at Jone’s Beach in Long Island on a sunset evening
VISITING the United States of America is arguably high on the list of many persons around the world, especially when that vacation period comes around. It’s a country that millions of tourists visit for many reasons, including shopping, sightseeing and even the chance of spotting a few celebrities. For, Deonaraine Natram and Chandroutie, the country was quite different compared to their home, Guyana. Both, Deonarine Natram and Chandroutie, were born in Guyana and lived almost 50 years at the same address. Both of them were born to Indian parents and live a traditional life in the village of Golden Fleece, Essequibo. They had travelled to Caribbean countries in the past but after acquiring their US Visas they had decided to spend Christmas there, in December 2018. Deonarine Natram who is a farmer by profession said that the flight on Caribbean Airlines was comfortable but, in his mind, he was just praying to arrive safely at the John F Kennedy Airport. As for his wife Chandroutie, the noise from the plane engine affected her although she had on her earplugs.
ful Christmas decorations. The visit to New Jersey was another experience with a different landscape. The food in New Jersey was that similar to Guyana. The Indian restaurants had similar flavours for their curries. Having grown up on the Essequibo Coast, the couple had opted to take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. The service was prompt and the boat ride was memorable. On the way to Staten Island, they had a closer look at the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. The trip was an evening one and the lights from the city of Manhattan were dazzling, they said As the days were winding up for the family vacation, the remaining days were spent in Long Island and Queens. Christmas Day was spent with The couple meets friends in Long Island for Christmas
The flight finally arrived and relatives came to the airport to uplift the couple and their daughter. It was definitely a much busier and colder place. Having dressed warm, they headed out the JFK airport destined for the Bronx, New York. “It was just a new experience, the cloth-
ing was warm but it was heavy and the walking at first got to me, but in the end, it was all worth it. It was a wonderful experience away from tropical Guyana,” Chandroutie said of her experience. TRAIN Catching the train was a rush for the couple, they shared. They entered the Prospect Avenue train and headed to Manhattan. They were accompanied by a relative who guided them the first trip on the train to 86th Street. They were so amazed by the neatly arranged buildings, the traffic, the Christmas decor and the shopping options. Their next stop was the Rockefeller Centre. The tall Christmas Tree and other tourist attraction sites were a scene to behold.
Savouring the popular Starbucks Coffee
WORLD TRADE CENTRE Going to New Jersey was another memorial experience for the couple. Again, they used the train and had to pass by the World Trade Centre route. It was a huge building that was all white and adorned with wonder-
close family and friends and the remaining hours were spent packing to return home. For the couple, their holiday in the United States of America was indeed quite memorable and the couple said that they would definitely love to visit again in the future.
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
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Supenaam Waterfront Development Project to transform the area into an Economic Hub Residents excited about the project A digital depiction of the completed stelling
Farmers from the indigenous community of Bethany, would be able to display their fresh produce in a more comfortable and organised manner, when the project is completed. Residents are already feeling positive about the project and according to a teacher from the area, Mahindra Sharma, he thinks the project will add glory to the Supenaam area. When asked why he said so, he said that the Supenaam area is the most used port of entry and attracts a large number of visitors. Sharma said the past structure was an “eyesore” for such a beautiful region. He is happy that the Government of Guyana and the Region Two administration have embarked
Works that are currently ongoing on the vending units
By Indrawattie Natram THE Good Hope/Supenaam area in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam,) which is the main port of entry to the region from the Essequibo River, will see an increase of business activities and a high influx of visitors in April when the multimillion-dollar Supenaam Waterfront Development Project is completed. The project poses great opportunities especially for the local businesses and tourism and will transform the entire landscape and outlook of the area. Thus far, the 88 million Guyana dollar project which is executed by the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC), is 65 per cent completed. During a visit to the site, Civil Engineer attached to the project Collin Gittens said that so far works are moving apace. Gittens recalled the “dilapidated”, “unorganised” stelling that was at the port of entry in the past. He said that the construction of the
Waterfront Development Project will add value to Essequibo tourism, since it will create a gateway of opportunities for the local people. Contractor Doodnauth Samaroo has thus far completed the river defence works. There were other contractors that were contracted to build the vending units and to conduct other works around the Supenaam area. This was done through a tender process. In the coming months, works will be done on the boat docking, the parking area, the installation of lights and the construction of the road leading to the location. ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES Currently, there are several vending units that are being created. These vending units will encourage a more organised vending, and will offer tourist various culinary taste to visitors. Some of the units will accommodate vegetable vendors, food vendors and even an Information Desk to guide visitors. Previously vendors using makeshift stalls were scattered vendors around the area.
on the project- one that will be inherited by generations to come. Another resident living close to the Supenaam area, Mohabir Roger Persaud, said that the project will add completion to the region’s tourism and with the recent establishment of the Region’s Tourism Association it will have a positive impact. Persaud, who is currently studying Law, said that Region Two has a lot to offer as a tourist destination and with the right resources and improved infrastructure, the entire region can soon become its own economic hub. He, too, was happy for the project and anticipates its completion. Turn to page X►►►
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Ready to teach!
OVERSEAS-based Guyanese director/ producer Ryan Singh is on his way to his homeland this April to reunite with family and friends, while at the same time looking for opportunities to train those in the local acting industry. With one of his family members celebrating her 89th birthday around April, Ryan decided to plan his trip around the same time. Ryan’s last visit to Guyana was back in 2003. “It’s a very exciting time in Guyana. It feels like there are a lot of opportunities for Guyana and a lot of hope, and I want to be
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Guyanese Director/Producer wishes to pass on world-class skills
able to be a part of that movement. I still feel such a connection,” he told the Pepperpot Magazine Ryan is also looking forward to working with young people and sharing “world class skills” with them, so far as acting and the development of films, etc. are concerned. “I’m a little apprehensive, but not scared; excited, but unsure of what to expect. I hope that I can come and bring something valuable to add to the natural, homegrown talent that I have observed is already present there.” Depending on what he discovers this time around, Ryan said he may look at bringing a
team on his next visit to help with his training workshops. Ryan migrated to Canada to pursue his dream of filmmaking and is now exploring ideas of returning to Guyana to help those in the local fraternity. The 41-year-old was born and raised in New Amsterdam, Berbice, and was about 16 years old when he left the country to pursue his dreams. Having spent some 25 years in the filmmaking industry10 professionally- he wants to come back and help with capacity building in the local industry. Son of local poet, writer and producer Leon Saul, Singh attended Trinity Street Primary and New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary and completed university studies in Canada. Now the father of six-yearold twins, Ava and Sebastian, Singh started off his career on his father’s stage when he was just about six years old and was invited up to recite a poem. Both his children are already doing well in the acting fraternity.
With his wife Cheryl and kids Turn to page X►►►
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
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More than a simple bottle of wine By Gibron Rahim
Winedays offers an experience
“WINE is just a conversation waiting to happen.” The above words spoken by noted wine expert, Jessica Altieri, illustrate that wine is more than simply a beverage. A staple at many social events, many an amusing or riveting conversation has been had over a glass of wine. Enduring relationships and friendships have been formed through these interactions. It is with this in mind that Winedays was created. Winedays is owned and operated by married couple Keon and Michelle Howard. The business has most recently been the recipient of the Roraima Wedding Expo 2018 Best Booth Award and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and In-
They currently primarily source from Brazil and the Niagara Peninsula of Ontario, Canada. She noted that they are currently in talks with South African wineries. The problem with importing the wines is keeping it cost effective. “Shipping logistics is difficult for Guyana because we’re kind of super cut off from the world,” Michelle pointed out. She emphasised Winedays’ dedication to not making it difficult for customers to access the wines. “Our purpose
Michelle and Keon Howard
is that we really don’t want it to be exclusive to certain price brackets and certain incomes,” Michelle said. “We want it to be accessible to anybody, anybody who loves it and wants to immerse themselves in it.” Winedays hosts monthly wine tastings every last Sunday of the month. Michelle explained that patrons can come and enjoy four 3.5 ounce pours of red and white wines at the cost of $4000 for one person and $7000 for two persons. In the beginning, Winedays would do popup wine tastings to familiarise the public with the business, though those have tapered off. Patrons at a wine tasting
dustry (GCCI) Small Business of the Year Award. Before all of that; however, Winedays started from the couple’s search for quality wine. Michelle related to the Pepperpot Magazine that she and Keon had difficulty locating quality wines on their visits to Guyana while they were living overseas. Wine had become a part of the couple’s lives during their time abroad. Michelle related that they would visit different wineries where they took part in wine tastings. “We did it often when we were courting,” she said. The couple would visit Keon’s relatives who live in Guyana. Since wine was so second nature to the couple, “When we would visit we would always bring our wines in but we could never be able to find it when we ran out,” she explained. Eventually, due to this mother’s illness, Keon and Michelle decided to permanently relocate to Guyana. While the relocation was ongoing, Michelle suggested the idea of importing wines to Keon. “He said to me, ‘Yeah that would be fun, let’s try it’,” she recalled. The concept behind Winedays is, at its simplest, to sell wines. However, it is more complex than that in the Guyanese context. Michelle explained, “Guyanese folks don’t indulge in wines the way North Americans and the wine world, in general, indulges in wine.” Consequently, Keon and Michelle have had to come up with creative ideas to get the Guyanese public interested. One of these ideas is Winedays’ mobile wine bar, “Vinny”, which is for hire and shows up at private functions, such as weddings, and events such as Curl Fete. All of the wines that Winedays offers are imported. The wines are boutique wines. Michelle explained that they seek out wines that are not the traditional bottle of wine in the sense that the winemakers take their time with the wines. “They’re small family wineries and they’re passionate about their craft,” she said. “It’s very artisanal.” Keon and Michelle try to source wines from all over.
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page II
A section of the Regent Street pavement and gutter outside the City Hall - clean as a whistle (Photo by F.Q.Farrier - 2018)
Three years later, whether that momentum was maintained, is the question being posed by some citizens. There are resurging small pockets of garbage to be seen here and there. There are some canals which are also filled with grass again; the Vlissengen/Irving Street canal as well as the Church Street canal. The two principal garbage service companies, Pooran Bros and Cevons, have complained repeatedly about late or no payment for their services. Will that situation recur in 2019? Most of the Municipal Markets in the city are very sub-standard. One citizen said, “They are in need of increased attention and on-going maintenance.” While impressive rehabilitation work on the Kitty Market commenced about three years ago, that work has been suspended some months now. The wharf section of the Stabroek Market is literally falling into the Demerara River. La Penitence Market also needs better attention. In all of the Municipal Markets, the washroom facilities are extremely sub-standard. Generally,in Georgetown, public washroom facilities are almost non-existent. One which was at the corner of Middle and Thomas Streets was demolished a few years ago. The one at the northern end of Carmichael Street is usually locked and unavailable for use by citizens and tourists. As 2019 continues to unfold, what is your own assessment of the City of Georgetown? What are your thoughts about the growing number of pavement dwellers and people of unsound mind roaming the city? Of having a feeling of being unsafe when crossing a street on the pedestrian crossing? Let’s begin with the iconic wooden City Hall building. That building is deteriorating by the day and is of concern by many citizens. Some say that the fact that it is still standing after 130 years, gives testimony to the quality of the material used for its construction, as well as the high quality of the construction itself. However, in more recent years portions have been falling off. The roof is leaking badly, resulting in waterproof material being spread out on the upper floor in the Concert Hall, and large bins placed to collect the leaking rainwater. Citizens hope that this building will be repaired during this year. Over a year ago I wrote an article about its terrible condition. Already repaired and upgraded, are miles and miles of previously pot-hole riddled streets, not only in the main areas of the city but also in many depressed areas such as West Ruimveldt and Tiger Bay. However, there is still more work to be done in the rehabilitation of the city after so many years of neglect. What is also very important is the way in which some citizens treat the environment with disdain. Many citizens do the right things, however, to ensure that the city is kept clean. For example, I’ve seen pavement vendors cleaning up in the mornings. So, too, do sculptors and vendors in the Main Street avenue. One of the large corporate citizens which has been keeping their environment clean is the Banks DIH Demico House in the Stabroek Market area. The pavement around that popular food business is always hosed down on a regular basis. Ming’s Products and Services Ltd. is another corporate citizen which has been having a cleansing team doing regular cleaning up of the northern blocks of the Main Street Avenue. COURTS Store takes care of the southern block. A number of floral trees have been planted by Guyana Stores on the western end of Church Street. Action Tyre on Croal Street has also been maintaining the entire block, which includes the northern section of the Ministry of Education. For many citizens, one of the on-going irritants in the city of Georgetown is the noise nuisance. The incessant honking of vehicle horns - especially by minibus operators, is adversely affecting many citizens. Then there are those small music carts which blast music at decibels a hundred times higher than the tiny vehicles which are operated mainly by young men who seem to have absolutely no concern for the irritation they cause to other citizens, especially the elderly and the sick, as they hawk their CDs and music videos with the booming noise. Another ongoing dangerous element in Georgetown is the presence of stray animals including dogs and horses, which roam the city streets by day and night. What is yet to be tackled, is the desilting of the koker out-fall which is next to the John Fernandes wharf. There are large trees growing in that out-fall impeding the free flow of water when the koker is open. That, in turn, contributes significantly to the on-going flooding in the downtown commercial area of the city, causing great inconvenience to vendors, shoppers, including tourists, and business establishments, and for some the loss of finance and good health. For Georgetown to become even more beautiful than it ever was back in the day as “The Garden City of the Caribbean”, and to blossom into “A shining city on a mud-flat”, needs the cooperation of every single citizen and visitor - from the Mayor and the Councillors to the corporate citizens and the vendors and property owners and tenants. Everyone has to be involved. This could and should be a national objective.
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Heatwave Band releases first single ONE of Guyana’s longest existing musical bands, the Heatwave Band, has released their first Soca single named ‘De Stage’ and it is definitely creating a hype all over the media, as we are drawing near to the Mashramani season. In one month, Heatwave will be celebrating their 11th anniversary and this new release is a collaborative effort by all the members of the band. Since their existence, they were known to be a backing band who would have backed several top ranking artistes such as Alkaline, Tommy Lee, Glen Washington, Duane Stephenson, just to name a few. They later recruited Guyanese singers who made them not just a backing band, but a performance band. However, though these individual artistes would have had their own songs which they perform, the band never worked on producing their own music. They would most times perform covers along with the artistes’ individual releases. This 11th-anniversary celebration is the mark of a new direction in which the band is taking. Road Manager, Chenille Bowen told the Pepperpot Magazine that they needed to be more than a cover band to be marketable in the Caribbean and internally, and this year the Band’s focus is to reach further heights in the music industry. “This release was a dream I had. I woke up with the melody in my head and I just put some words to it and sent it to the band members to add their pieces. And with everyone’s input, we came up with this energetic song produced by Devon Roberts in the Vizion Sounds Studio,” Bowen said. When asked about details of the song and the inspiration behind the lyrics, she said that the whole idea is to set a new trend of having Guyanese artistes being the central focus of local shows and also shows overseas. “The song is a proclamation more or less, that we are taking control of whichever stage we are performing on and be in command of our audience behaviour when we perform… Most times the international artistes take the front stage but the Heatwave Band is about to change that in 2019. We are declaring, through our song ‘De Stage’ that Guyanese artistes are taking over our local stages here in Guyana and overseas.” The band’s first performance of their new single will be at the Soca Monarch Competitions slated for later this month and into February. Bowen said the band will continue to produce and release more music and they are currently working on an EP that will be released later in the year. “Once everything goes as planned, we will have an album of 13 songs by May for the Guyana Carnival season,” she unveiled. The members of Heatwave Band are Earl Bishop -music Director and keyboardist; Joshua Dennis – drummer and keyboardist, Anthony Johnson – Band leader and Bass guitarist; Selector Andre – sampleman; Ian Gonsalves - rhythm Guitarist; and Devon Roberts – engineer, drummer and producer. The singers in the band are Mark Batson, Calvin Burnett, Kady Kish and Tennicia De Freitas.
The cover of Heatwave Band’s first release ‘De Stage’
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◄◄◄ From page V
Works that were completed on the river defence work
An outlook of the area with the steel revetment work
The project is intended to have a new passenger-waiting and paved, parking areas, organised vending spaces with standardised shops, a paved waterfront promenade with rails, shaded public seating and lighting. The project was considered by the ministry after they recognised the importance of the Supenaam Terminal of Guyana’s River Transport link. The current infrastructure required spatial enhancements in an effort to foster business opportunities as a leading port of entry. Senior Engineer from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure/ Sea and River Defence, Jermaine Braithwaite, in a previous interview had said the major elements of the enhancement project include the Rehabilitation/Upgrade to the existing main road at Supenaam waterfront; construction of a new anchored steel sheet pile revetment (75m) and rehabilitation to existing SSP revetment; paved waterfront promenade with rails; shaded public seating; decorative lighting; construction of new passenger waiting/boating landing structure designed for mooring of multiple boats; organised vending spaces with standardised shops and seating provisions to be managed through the RDC/NDC; seating and sanitary facilities; improvements of amenities and facilities for waiting passengers, as well as parking spaces. Prior to the project, there were several consultations where residents, members of the businesses community and the members from the Good/Hope Supenaam Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) raised several concerns. Some of the concerns were toilets for disabled persons; structure to accommodate arrival and departure; promotion of tourism by highlighting local produce; parking for taxi’s and other vehicles; relocation of the Amerindian Hostel and Guyana Forestry Commission; relocation of vendors to allow construction; garbage disposal; solar panels on roofs; installation of solar panels along walkways and GFC request for a boathouse, were some of the amendments residents would desire to be included in the project. According to engineers, most of the recommendations made by the residents have been included in the project. ◄◄◄ From page VI
Ryan is a filmmaker, director, producer, actor, and director of photography. Although going to Canada did not immediately offer Singh the opportunities he had sought as a young man in Guyana, he eventually succeeded in producing theatre with the help of his dad following his graduation at university. He would eventually press on to make award-winning documentaries and short films while acting in major productions. He has worked as an actor on ‘Downsizing’ and was the behind-the-scenes videographer on ‘The Breadwinner’ (Nominated for one Golden Globe, six Canadian Screen Awards, and a bevvy of Annie Awards). He has also been a producer on Rasta: A Soul’s Journey (2011), Housekeeping, IRL: The Series (2016) (TV show and Web Series), Fried Bakes and Dumplings (2014), Mom (2013), Graffiti Alley (2016) and The Black Experience Project Report (2017). He directed Mom, Fried Bakes and Dumplings and Graffiti Alley. Apart from being behind the scenes, Singh has also acted in ‘Conduct Unbecoming’ directed by Sidney Furie, ‘11 Blocks’ that was co-directed by Matthew Bennett and Sasha Moric and ‘Mr. Crab’ that was directed by Faisal Lutchmedial. He was the ‘Best Documentary under 40 Minutes’ Winner for ‘Mom’ at the Caribbean Tales International Film Festival CTIFF 2013; and winner of the ‘Audience Choice Awards’ for ‘Fried Bakes and Dumplings’ Greater August Town Film Festival GATFFEST 2016, in Jamaica.
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
The joys of reaping and harvesting Ease the stress, keep the blood flowing
By M Margaret Burke
“GET into the gardening habit this year and you will see what it would do for you. It does not call for a lot of yard space; not even a lot of time, but it would do some things for you that nothing or no one else can. All you need is some earth space and pots; the love to see things grow and a desire to reap good things; then you can gear yourself to reap the countless blessings it has to offer.” Rita Melville of the Campbellville community has what one would consider a thriving farm, both in the front and back of her yard. In front, she has a lot of flower trees, which are
sprinkled with pepper and tomatoes trees; thyme – fine and thick leaves; turmeric and ginger, among other plants.
At the back and sides of her yard, she has some larger trees, which include the soursop tree; a small mango tree; banana suckers; newly bearing lemon and lime trees; papaw trees and others. “I am a retired teacher and even when I was busy teaching I always loved the earth; I always loved to see things grow and also to reap…whenever I am able to reap my stuff it makes me feel so very good – there is something about reaping that touches my soul and makes me feel good,” she said. “When I go down in my yard and pick some tomatoes, fresh pepper
or thyme to put in my pot, you won’t understand the joy it brings to my mind; when I am able to pick some fresh fruits from my own garden and eat them, I do not even want to wash them sometimes because I feel that they are so pure – no fertiliser and [they are] growing in a clean place,” she told the Pepperpot Magazine. VERY LITTLE EFFORT A Norwegian study posited that the effortless attention of gardening may even help improve depression symptoms, stating that people who had been diagnosed with depression, persistent low mood, or “Bipolar II Disorder” spent six hours a week growing flowers and vegetables. Further, it explained that after three months, half of the participants had experienced a measurable improvement three months after the gardening programme ended. The researchers suggest that the novelty of gardening may have been enough to jolt some of the participants out of their doldrums, but some experts have a much more radical explanation for how gardening might ease depression. William Maynard, a community garden programme coordinator for the City of Sacramento’s Department of Parks and Recreation said that there are lots of different movements in gardening, which help people to get some exercise benefits out of it. He added, “Gardening is hardly pumping iron, and unless you’re hauling wheelbarrows of dirt long distances every day… But digging, planting, weeding, and other repetitive tasks that require strength or stretching are excellent forms of low-impact exercise, especially for people who find more vigorous exercise a challenge, such as those who are older, have disabilities or suffer from chronic pain.” LOWERING DEMENTIA Some research has also suggested that the physical activity of gardening can help in lowering the risk of developing dementia. In fact, separate studies of people in their 60s and 70s for up to 16 years, have found that those who do gardening on a regular basis had a 36 per cent and 47 per cent lower risk of dementia than non-gardeners, even when a range of other health factors were taken into account. These findings, though not definitive, do suggest that the combination of physical and mental activity involved in gardening may have a positive influence on the mind. However, the sight, smells, and sounds of the garden are said to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Melville agreed that the food harvested from a person’s own garden is not only the freshest but safest food that can be eaten. She said that she would indeed subscribe to the saying that “People who are growing food tend to eat healthily.” BEAUTY AND HEALTH You can dress up your yard and make it look really beautiful, but at the same time you can be growing some of the best and healthiest plants in that same space, says Melville, as she invited the Pepperpot Magazine on a tour of her yard. “Only my closest friends know all about my garden. People do pass and look, some of them even beg for a plant or two, but they do not know how much is within this yard. I utilise all of the space I have available because the more you plant the more you feel the desire to do so, especially when you see the rewards of your loving labour,” she stated. Melville stated that it started so long ago that she cannot now remember, but at that time she always had a love for beautiful flowers and would always ask for or pick a piece wherever she went, which she then planted. She said that as time went by she started collecting seeds and small plants that she planted and as she began to reap fruits, vegetables and other things nothing could have stopped her from fulfilling her desire to plant. “It became a hobby; I love reading, cooking and keeping a good home and the like – I can consider some of them real hobbies because I always pay attention to things that would make my home look good, but I think that the greatest of them all (my hobbies) is doing my gardening,” she said adding that everywhere she goes people always comment on how young, happy, relaxed and clean-skinned she appears. She credits it all to her gardening, which she said is the best therapy ever, in the midst of all she may encounter from day to day. (mercilinburke2017@gmail.com)
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Mother of six recovering after brutal attack
Recovering: Malicia Andrews
By Michel Outridge MALICIA Andrews, whose neck was almost severed with a cutlass by the father of her child in October 2018 during a vicious attack at her mother’s house in Swan on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, has been discharged from the hospital. According to her sister, Carmelita Adams, Andrews is resting at home after being discharged from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), a month ago. Adams told the Pepperpot Magazine that her sibling is in no position to speak to anyone but can manage to do minor things for herself and is said to be healing. She related that Andrews is walking but cannot do much on her own yet since she is still in the healing process and the scars are fresh, but she is coping and in time will make a full recovery. Adams said her loved one remembers almost everything that has happened and would at times talk openly about the incident and has expressed the need to “get over” what transpired. The mother of six, who was brutally chopped multiple times to the neck and other parts of her body by the father of her child, who subsequently took his own life by hanging, is optimistic she will be able to lead a normal life once againat least for her children. Adams told this newspaper that Andrews’ wounds are healing on her neck and back of her head but one of her hands is in a cast because the bone was shattered when she was chopped. She has regained some movement in her re-attached fingers which were severed and her ears have been successfully re-attached. The incident happened when Andrews left her home after a row with 39-year-old Ian English with whom she has a three-year-old child when he accused her of being unfaithful. The woman went to her mother’s house, a short distance away and English followed. There they had an argument which quickly turned heated when she refused to return home with him. Janet Domingo, Andrews’ mother tried to save her daughter but she was lashed twice by English, who had a cutlass and pushed her down on a chair after which he fired the first chop, it was then the elderly farmer began begging him to leave her alone and she escaped. She ran to neighbours to alert them of what was happening in her house and they took Andrews to the hospital. The chops almost severed her neck, and English after committing the act, fled into some nearby bushes and hung himself. His body was removed late that night by undertakers in the presence of the police. English and Andrews had been living together for the past four years but he was married with eight children, the youngest being eight months old. While, Andrews has six children, only one was fathered by the deceased.
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Community Forest Organisations (CFOs) gearing up for Environmental Authorisation THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has received funding under the FAO-EU FLEGT Programme to execute the project, “Providing Capacity Building Assistance to Community Forest Organisations (CFOs) on the on the Environmental Authorisation process in Guyana.” This project will utilise awareness and capacity building as a means of supporting Forest Operators on the process involved in obtaining an Environmental Authorisation in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act, Cap 20:05, Laws of Guyana and the EUFLEGT-VPA legality definition (Annex11). This initiative involves a series of exploratory meetings in all relevant Administrative Regions followed by workshops with the identified stakeholders. To this end, 69 CFOs are targeted for this project with the goal of having 70 per cent of CFO operations permitted by the end of the project. WHAT IS EU FLEGT? The European Union Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (EU FLEGT) programme is a system in place to ensure timber is legally harvested and is legal to enter the European market. Two major elements under this programme are the EU Timber Regulation and the Voluntary Partnership Agreements (VPAs). WHAT IS A VPA? A VPA is a voluntary but legally binding agreement between the European Union (EU) and each partner country. This is based on the participating countries national laws and seeks to foster environmental and social sustainability. Stakeholder engagement is a vital part of the VPA process. CAPACITY BUILDING IN REGION 10 AND TWO A total of 52 representatives from Community Forest Organisations in Regions 10 and Two, benefitted from three capacity building workshops held in December 2018 and January 2019. CFO representatives from the communities of Kwakwani, Ituni, Aroaima, Hururu, Great Falls, Number 58 Miles Mabura in Region 10 and Akawini, Anna Regina, Mainstay, Bethany, Mashabo, Pomona, Capoey, Riverstown, Pomeroon, Supenaam etc, Region 2, were meaningfully engaged on Environmental Authorisation and the EU FLEGT Programme. The workshops were held at the Kwakwani, Number 58 Miles Mabura, Region 10 and the Regional Democratic Council boardroom, Anna Regina, Region Two, respectively. Turn to page XXXII►►►
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Fate leads young woman to pursue her calling Tiffany Griffith
By Gabriella Chapman WHAT some may call accidental, Tiffany Griffith calls fate and she shared her journey to becoming a valuable contributor to several sectors in Guyana, including the oil and gas. This 24-year-old young woman is currently pursuing her Master’s in Chemical Engineering on a Government Scholarship, at Xiamen University located in Fujian Province of China. Sharing her journey with the Pepperpot Magazine, Tiffany said that she always had a love for the sciences, though it proved a bit more challenging than the business field. “I felt myself gravitating to it moreso because of that fact that lab work was always exciting and I always felt this is where I could help make a difference, just like many scientists that went before me. However, how I ended up here, in the field of chemical engineering was quite accidental or some may call it faith,” she said. When Tiffany came out of high school she enrolled in the University of Guyana (UG), with her first choice being a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and the second in Chemistry. She said that her extended family wanted her to study medicine, hence the reason for Biology being her first choice. However, she never saw being a doctor as her calling. WORK OF FAITH It so happened that the Biology programme at UG was filled and Tiffany ended up majoring in Chemistry. She said that as she got deeper into it, she couldn’t see herself doing anything else. “I got my Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry, but my plan after that was to get my Master’s in some area of Forensics. That didn’t work out, nor did I get a job at the forensics lab. So I started working and had many other failures and missed opportunities later… I saw a notice in the newspaper about a scholarship being offered for a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering. Having a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry was one of the prerequisites, so I was in the running. I started researching everything that Chemical Engineering entailed and the more I read the more I became interested. I submitted my application and began the wait,” Tiffany shared. NEW WORLD The wait was soon over as Tiffany was chosen as one of the awardees to read for her Master’s in China. “It was time I packed my bag and journey to the other side of the globe; China, for two whole years. It was at that moment that the excitement mixed with anxiety and an ounce of doubt [stepped in]. What was I thinking? Was I really going to move all the way to a strange land and leave all that was familiar and dear to me for not one, but two years?” she reminisced. “Settling in proved even harder than I thought it would have been. Not only was I a foreigner to the land but also the language, and we all know, communication breathes community, and I lacked both. I experienced culture shock, followed by a deep longing, not for the unknown, but home.” However, she said that she adjusted her mind to the ultimate goal of garnering the knowledge needed to develop her home, Guyana. PLANS FOR GUYANA Though she had difficulties with adjusting to her new life, Tiffany managed to secure a 3.58 GPA thus far. Explaining her field of study, she shared that chemical engineering is an incorporation of chemistry and engineering
to generate useable products from raw materials. “Other than making products, chemical engineers are involved in the designing and testing of production methods, by-products treatment, etc. So that in itself shows you that a chemical engineer can be placed in a vast [number] of industries: pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, water, textiles, plastics, food processing, and the list goes on,” she said. After her studies are completed, the young woman said if she gets a chance to work in either the oil & gas, water or food industry, she will be quite contented. “We all know, Guyana recently made oil discoveries in commercial quantities and that this resource holds much potential for improving our standard of living. So, as plans for laying the foundation of an oil and gas industry is taking shape, one can only realise that there is a deficit of trained personnel with the expertise for this venture and the future production of pe-
troleum right at home,” she articulated. “George Washington once said, ‘Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.’ I strongly agree and chemical engineers are pertinent if Guyana is to engage in the large-scale conversion of crude oil into usable products such as petroleum. But as it was also noted, solutions to problems concerning production or use of chemicals, food, water etc., can also be unearthed via this field of study, and these are all areas that Guyana would do well with an improvement.” The young scholar continued, “But, wherever, I am placed, as I’m on a Government scholarship, I believe in some little way or the other I’ll be able to assist in the national development of my country, Guyana, and that will always be my goal,” she added. Tiffany will be graduating this year and will be returning to Guyana immediately after completing her studies.
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Physical Exercise and Mental Health
I’M so thankful for the many emails where my readers shared their New Year’s Resolution with me. More than half were relating to exercise, weight loss or overall physical health. Considering that many resolutions do not make it past January, I figured I would give you guys a few extra reasons and hopefully the motivation to keep going. I often speak about ‘healthy body, healthy mind’ to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the constant connection between mind and body. This means that in order for the mind to be healthily active, the body must be so as well and vice versa. Let’s start with physical exercise. I am confident that most of you know the physical health benefits of exercise. These include healthier weight, bones and levels of energy, reduced blood pressure, cholesterol as well as chances of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. Working out automatically triggers our mind to eat better, drink less alcohol and have better sleep. On the other hand, I am not so sure that many believe in the high correlation between physical exercise and good mental health. Your age, gender or fitness level does not matter; any amount of exercise makes an important difference. Keep in mind that the word exercise here means any physical activity such as walking, running, swimming, riding a bicycle, playing any sport etc. Basically, anything that increases your heart rate. You do not need hours out of your day to reap the benefits of exercise. Thirty minutes a day a few times a week will show tremendous benefits. Exercise has been prescribed to help with stress, anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Physical exercise has countless benefits on our mental health- and not just as a preventative measure. While exercise is not a substitute for prescription medication in severe cases, it has been shown to treat mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Some people find it even better than prescription medication as it has zero negative side effects. Exercise increases positive, feel-good neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and serotonin) within the brain. This added to the natural endorphins released in the body works as a treatment plan in itself. Turn to page XXXIII►►►
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ACCEPTANCE OF THE LGBT COMMUNITY FROM time to time in the print media, reports are carried about members of the LGBT community. LGBT is an acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. The overwhelming majority of such reports point to some involvement with the courts or police, and are generally unfriendly to LGBT people. The underground of prejudice surfaces in the ways LGBT people are treated by the police and members of the public. Though we are in the 21st century, the treatment meted out to LGBT people is qualitatively a little different from the barbaric attitudes and hostilities of previous centuries. There are several theories accounting for the origin of LGBT people. One theory is that one becomes an LGBT person because of social conditioning. The theory which has the most currency in Guyana is that the LGBT person is born with the sexual orientation he/she manifests in later life. In other words, their bodies are, in some ways different from heterosexuals who form the overwhelming majority of humankind. Accordingly, they are born physically as such and have not consciously adopted the LGBT orientation. This is an important concept as it would prevent some people from thinking that LGBT people are perverse or wicked. If we know the root causes of the prejudice against LGBT persons, we may in time, be able to eliminate such prejudices. In the Semitic faiths, LGBT persons are considered ungodly and are sinners who should be punished by Man just as they would be punished by God, and the biblical story of Sodom and Gomorrah is often cited as justification for the harsh and cruel treatment of LGBT persons. This has led to a great deal of physical violence against LGBT persons by members of the public throughout the Christian and Islamic worlds over the centuries. Such violence was reflected in the legal systems of Islamic and Christian countries. In Guyana, for instance, there were laws affecting “cross-dressing” or private homosexual relationships. This attitude of discrimination contrasts with that of the East Asian religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, Taoism and Confucianism where there is an acceptance of LGBTs for what they are and no attempt is made to single them out. Indeed, in the Hindu tradition, they are known as Hijirin and are usually engaged in performing arts such as singing, dancing and acting and have their own status in society. They are regarded almost as a third gender. Though in modern Western Societies there are still vestiges of the older prejudices and harsh attitudes towards LGBT persons, mainstream Western thought and attitude towards LGBT persons have become very humane and civilised. The genesis of this new attitude is based on two factors: The first is the strong commitment to Human Rights by all Western States and second, with the advancement of Science and with the increasing knowledge of the human body and psychology, greater understanding of the LGBT community is fast becoming part of popular knowledge. It is now being recognised that the LGBT community should be left in peace. Despite Guyana’s beginning to move in the direction of the full acceptance of the LGBT community, there is still a residuum of barbaric behaviour towards them at the lower levels of society. The Guyana Human Rights Institute has published a report which records a number of violent incidents against LGBT persons and of the reluctance of the police to act vigorously in such matters. One horrible incident was reported from New Amsterdam, Berbice: A transgender man was murdered in 2013. He was tied up in his own house by a gang who then set the house on fire and he was burnt to death. Those in the vicinity did nothing to restrain the murderers and it was alleged that the police failed to do a proper investigation of the incident. The distressing condition of this community is vividly described in the report: “ Pervasive levels of violence confront LGBT persons in Guyana, and limit their ability to exist freely in public spaces; violence and harassment against LGBT people are endemic in Guyanese society and jeopardise their security and ability to freely express their identity”. The report sums up the LGBT condition: “LGBT indi-
viduals in Guyana experience violence and discrimination across all sectors of their lives, with instances combining and intersecting to create an existence in which LGBT persons are trapped in a life cycle of violence and discrimination”. These injustices against LGBT persons could be ended if all discriminatory provisions against them are removed from the Laws of Guyana and the police are educated
as to the truth of the LGBT condition. Such teaching will best occur at the Police Training School when police officers are first inducted into the Force. The public at large should also be educated through both print and electronic media so they could understand all facets of the LGBT condition and develop a civilised acceptance going beyond mere tolerance.
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
#SupportCreativity
By Subraj Singh
Shivanee Ramlochan’s ‘Everyone Knows I am a Haunting’
“Everyone Knows I am a Haunting” by Shivanee Ramlochan, Peepal Tree Press, 2017
SHIVANEE Ramlochan is a Trinidadian poet. She is important because she is one of the important voices to represent the modern era of Caribbean poetry. Her work is of the kind that will eventually become definitive of the time and place in which it was written. So, for example, many years into the future, it is possible that readers will look to Ramlochan’s work in order to establish and analyse the history or social/cultural landscape of Trinidad or the Caribbean, or her work may become one of several reference points for those inquiring about Caribbean literature in the post-2010 era. I say this because her work is poignant and reflective of the author’s immense talent, while also being reflective of the current nature of the world in which she lives and writes. Her work is wholeheartedly Caribbean while remaining accessible to everyone who comes to it. This ability to be specific and yet accessible is particularly well-expressed in her poetry collection, “Everyone Knows I am a Haunting,” which was published by Peepal Tree Press and shortlisted for a 2018 Forward Prize for Poetry. This collection is a multifaceted thing of wonder, each line hissing, whispering, or bellowing a bevvy of important truths that those of us within the Caribbean know and feel all too well. Turn to page XXXIV►►►
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#SupportCreativity
By Subraj Singh
What a time to be a youth YOUTH are marginalised. There is no doubt in my mind about that. But nowadays more and more young people are stepping up to lessen the gaps that exist and solidify the importance of their contributions to society. Last Saturday, I attended a youth forum organised by three young men that aimed to garner views and suggestions from young people to be considered, as politicians chart their way forward at the upcoming elections (whenever those are held). The forum also underscored that youth is a very broad demographic but there are various intersections of youth, each with its own issues and solutions. What I appreciated was that each young person present- that made a contribution- seemed very serious about advancing the cause for youth. They advocated for a myriad of things- whether more avenues for representation or more effort to be given to issues affecting youth- so that the marginalisation young people face would be lessened. Some argued that if youth wanted things, they ought to stop being so lethargic and go after those things. Others highlighted that there are young people who are actively pursuing development for themselves and for those around them, but there are many rigid and institutionalised blockades in their way (like the rigid political hierarchical structures that exist). The basic intention behind the forum, as I alluded to earlier, was to garner these views and present them to all of the political parties as they are crafting their manifestos. For me, solutions are one thing, but enacting these is another. And while listening to the ideas presented, I couldn’t help but wonder: How do youth champion their causes and make the parties take them into consideration, and how, if
even considered, do youth pressure politicians to follow through with what has been considered? Now if you read these columns every week, there’s a very high chance that I am seeking to bring attention to something youth related. Recently, I questioned whether I should try to expand my reach- but what Saturday’s forum affirmed for me is that I need to keep speaking until the things I want to see improved, are improved. Similarly with youth (and not just while pressuring politicians, but generally), if you believe in something you have to pursue it. If a group demands to have more representation in government, that group has to hold the government accountable by ‘calling them out’ or keep knocking on doors until they open. At the same forum, the head of local tech company Intellect Storm, Rowen Willabus raised a very, very valid point that has caused me to rethink how I look at many things. The events around the 1960s have, for the most part, shaped the socio-political climate of Guyana. Guyanese has learned that if you want something (like Independence), it will not be simply given to you-you have to fight for it and show why you are worthy of it. The current political leaders are either from that era or a direct product of that era. In the context of young people lobbying these leaders- as those present at the forum have indicated their desire to so- it cannot be done without strongly showing these persons. And I would say that in their ways- whether through social activism or physically protesting- young people have been trying to do just this. Personally, I believe however that if my people really want to effect positive change, we really
must have our priorities aligned. We represent some 65 per cent of the electorate; we have the strength in our numbers. Intersections among the youth demographic are characteristic, but they should not be the cause of division. I cannot overstate that we all belong to the demographic of youth, and by the mere virtue of our age- we are marginalised. This marginalisation is only further exacerbated by what the intersections of youth (like the indigenous youth or the LGBTQ+ youth) endure. And in being a youth these days, I think it’s quite important to not only show the older folk what we have but make a conscious effort to learn from them. They have made the country what it is today, and while we might not always agree with what they do- they have a wealth of institutional knowledge that we ought to begin learning as well. It is a great time to be a youth, in my opinion. There is work to be done and there are avenues that we can pursue to do so (whether forcibly or not). They keep saying that we are the future, but we are uniquely poised to learn from the older generation and show them that the future is now.
A vision of care Dr. Chitradai Deonarine PERSONS get ill e v e r y d a y but while mentally fighting to get better helps, there are still heroes who work around to clock to ensure that you get back on your feet. Young, Dr. Chitradai Nadira Deonarine is one of those heroes who work around the clock to ensure that medically ill persons are treated. Deonarine, who completed her high school education at the Berbice High School, went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from the University
of Guyana, Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme at Rajiv Gandhi University of Science and Technology (RGUST) and completed the Caribbean Association of Medical Councils (CAMC) exam. The young doctor aspires to first complete her medical internship at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and a residency programme in internal medicine. “I also aspire to be a good, caring and humble doctor who will help anyone in need,” said Deonarine, adding that her biggest motivation comes from her passion
to be the best. She is also motivated by her parents, especially her father who broke the cycle of marriage of young girls, because growing up it was uncommon for a father to propel their daughters towards higher education and more so, having the courage and trust to send them alone into the city to further their studies. Deonarine encouraged persons to work relentlessly, be their own cheerleader, know that there will be good and bad days and be around people who fuel your own kind of positive energy.
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The Supenaam Waterfront Enhancement Project Transforming and creating a modern Guyana one project at a time
An artist’s impression of what the finished Supenaam Waterfront Enhancement Project will look like.
“THE Project is very great for Region Two. With Supenaam, as the entry of Region Two, I can tell you that it is a big plus for the Government. I am so anxious and happy about this project,” exclaims Ms. Beatrice Mittelholzer as her face lights up with a broad smile. She is just one of the many residents of Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two), who are eagerly awaiting the completion of the Supenaam Waterfront Enhancement Project, a whopping $143 million undertaking which is being done through a collaboration between Central Government and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC). In this week’s Government in Action, we will take a look at the multimillion-dollar project and how it will significantly enhance not only the landscape of the region but also augment the livelihoods of speedboat operators, vendors, visitors and travellers. INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT
In order for residents to function effectively in their communities, it is important that each community is equipped with basic services. These services include the required infrastructure to provide ease of access to and from the communities as well as access to health, education and other facilities that aid in improving quality of life. In three years, the coalition government has spent hundreds of millions of dollars on infrastructural development in order to provide equal access. While resources are limited, the Government has committed itself to improving the infrastructural landscape of the country through the development of a world-class road, river and air network to spur economic activity. Included in this grand scheme, is the Supenaam Waterfront Project. President David Granger has repeatedly said his Government is serious about the development of all regions in Guyana, whether hinterland or coastland and will ensure that all Guyanese are able to benefit from projects, programmes and services, which
can improve their lives. The President said that already, the groundwork is being laid to ensure that inequalities in public education, incomes, public infrastructure and access to public services between hinterland communities and the rest of the country are eliminated. At the commissioning of a new bridge in Ykinipa, Pomeroon-Supenaam
on December 17, 2017, the President said no village or resident, regardless of geographic location, would be left behind under this administration. “I am President of all Guyana. I know what you need and as long as God gives me the strength, I will ensure that I deliver what you need. Every Guyanese must have access to public
Regional Executive Officer (REO), Pomeroon Supenaam (Region Two), Mr. Denis Jaikaran
services. I don’t believe in bush. I believe in people and whether you are living in Akawini or Orealla or Kwakwani, you deserve access to public services. As far as President Granger is concerned, I treat all citizens equal,” he said. The President has said that ensuring that residents have access to these facilities is part of ensuring that Guya-
nese enjoy the good life. TRANSFORMATIVE PROJECT The project commenced in April 2018 with an expected completion date of March 2019. Senior Engineer of the River and Sea Defences Department of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Mr. Jermaine Braithwaite explained that the project has
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019 two major components. “The first is the flood protection infrastructure aspect, which will address the river defence along that section along the mouth of the Essequibo River and which the Ministry of Public Infrastructure had initially envisaged would be implemented. There is also a waterfront enhancement aspect that will see improvement of the waterfront at the project location. It will address matters such as improving the boat landing facility; organised vending units will be put in place, a waterfront promenade will be constructed, there will additional amenities that will benefit the general public such as lighting and seating. We have also included in the scope of works, a sanitary block because we felt that there needed to be some improved facility for use to that effect and a number of other amenities that are really geared to providing a more comfortable experience for the public,” he said. Mr. Braithwaite said that while the Ministry would have initially focused on the river and sea defence aspect, collaboration was realised with the Ministry of Communities to fund the waterfront phase. “So, what we really have is a consolidated project that would address flood protection, but at the same time put in place a number of structural elements and amenities to improve the waterfront at the Supernaam River,” he said. With regard to flood protection, the Senior Engineer said that the Ministry of Public Infrastructure has, for some time, been monitoring the Supenaam River mouth in terms of flood defence. While there has not been a major issue there, for the most part, it was recognised that there is a section that was under-protected with inadequate revetment in place. The Ministry, therefore, thought it best to reinforce the structure, while at the same time planning and catering for chances of increased sea levels. “Where the enhancement part was concerned, many would know that the boat landing facilities at Supenaam itself were inadequate. For example, there was no arrangement or facility there for passengers seating, for them to be covered from the elements, the ramp itself that was there for the speedboats deteriorated substantially. We looked at vending and having that better organised, we considered the matter of parking, because there are a number of taxis and minibus operators who would function in the area, provide transportation for those who are travelling along the Essequibo Coast but even the matter of parking of their vehicles was one that was not well organised. There was an opportunity also to address that. The general waterfront space too by itself had potential for recreation and so we considered that as another thing that we could take advantage of,” he said. While the project was initially expected to be completed this month, it has been pushed back to March 2019. Mr. Braithwaite ex-
plained that there were numerous challenges that had to be overcome and justifiable extensions, which had to be given to the contractor. “Our deadline is currently based on arrangements with the contractor and their pace of working…Certain adjustments that had to be made would have been [done at] the end of January but we have recognised that there are additional setbacks and it is likely that actual completion will be…by the end of March when we will see substantial completion of all these facilities,” he said. With the Public Infrastructure Ministry plugging $109,802,444 into the project to take care of the river and sea defence aspect, the Ministry of Communities under the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has committed $34,070,000, which will primarily address the installation of vending units and other matters of enhancing the aesthetics of the area. ‘A GOOD THING FOR THE REGION’ Newly installed Regional Executive Officer of the Pomeroon-Supenaam, Mr. Denis Jaikaran, in an interview with the Public Information and Press Service Unit of the
naam? When you come from any other region, once you come by speedboat, the first landing to meet would be at the Supenaam Creek,” he said. The project will see 12 vending units installed, each divided into two, bringing it to a total of 24 available spaces. There are an additional four units that would be constructed in different designs to house an information centre for tourists and other businesses such as salons and barbershops. Mr. Jaikaran said that this aspect of the project will significantly bring order to vending while enhancing the aesthetics of the area. “What previously obtained in this area is that the persons here were in shabby looking shacks and that is not the presentation that this Government wants and so what we are making, are structures to benefit the vendors who are here. So, people
Regional Executive Officer (REO), Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two), Mr. Denis Jaikaran and an engineer from his office inspect the works being done on the vending booths at the Supenaam stelling as part of the Supenaam Waterfront Enhancement Project.
Ministry of the Presidency said that the entire region is pleased to see the development that is taking place. He said that the coalition, during its 2015 elections campaign had promised a better quality of life and it is now being realised. “One of them would have been to really and truly enhance Pomeroon-Supenaam. And why is it that we are enhancing Supe-
Works being done at the Good Hope/ Supenaam Stelling
are not only going to be comfortable, but it is also going to send the message that Region Two - we are prepared for tourism,” he said. Vendor, Ms. Anisa Thomas said she is pleased that consideration has been given for the installation of vending units as it will bring tremendous benefits to all vendors. “I welcome this project. I am glad to see the waterfront in front here getting a great
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improvement. For me, getting more tourists to come here would mean more business for me. My business would be able to expand, I would be in a better stall and a more equipped part to work and handle myself as well as where customers could come and sit down, relax and enjoy. Besides the stand, we will also have seats at the Waterfront so that they can come and get a good view so instead of them coming and rushing through, we can get them to spend more time with us here and it’s not just us out here will benefit. [There are] the supermarkets, hotels and shops so it would not be us alone here benefitting but our entire community,” she said. With plans in train to also establish a new and improved speed boat facility, boat operators, too, are welcoming the project as they believe it will help their business to grow and thrive. In addition to being powered by renewable energy, the facilities will also cater to persons with disabilities and special needs. Mr. Conrad Baird, the owner and operator of a speed boat plying the Parika to Supenaam route, said that he is looking forward to seeing his passengers travel in comfort. He also said he is pleased that the Government is advancing works in every region and that no group is being left out. “I am happy for the project. I am happy for the people who live in this area. I am happy for tourism because whenever people come to this country, Supenaam is the gateway to the Essequibo and when you look at the gateway, you will understand what you are going and meet there. It is good for the speedboats also because we are being given the facility that we need. We have asked, for so long, for this and now that it has come on stream, we are happy for it. People must be comfortable travelling and able to embark and disembark. People would use the facilities more once it is more comfortable and this is what we are seeing here so I want to thank the Government for remembering us,” he said. Mr. Hardat Narine, a businessman from Lima Village, said he too is looking forward to seeing residents and tourists flocking the location and travelling in comfort once the project is completed. “I think it’s one of the most wonderful projects to have ever happened in Region Two for years. It is the gateway to Region Two and that will bring a lot of tourists for us. This facility will be so convenient, so nice and easy access when it is finished. I think it will benefit at the least 50 thousand residents of this region. So, this is a very great project and I would like to see more of this,” Mr. Narine said. The coalition Government, therefore, continues to work towards ensuring that a good life is enjoyed by all Guyanese. Not only will this project provide better services and access and enhance the aesthetics of the region, but it will bring about a massive economic transformation.
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Treating abscesses in the mouth AN abscess is a swelling filled with pus. There are three types of dental abscesses that resemble each other; it is their point of origin that differentiates them and not every stage requires antibiotic treatment. A gum or gingival abscess is the result of injury to or infection of the surface of the gum tissue. If an infection moves deep into the gum pockets, drainage of pus is blocked and a periodontal abscess results. A periapical abscess refers to a tooth in which the pulp is infected, usually secondary to tooth decay. A gum abscess is the result of irritation caused by toothpicks or other objects, from food being forced into the gums, or by aggressive brushing. If the trauma causes a break in the gum surface, bacteria invade the area, causing a local infection. Initially, the area appears red, smooth, and shiny. As the infection progresses, the area becomes pointed and pus is released. A periodontal abscess involves the deeper structures surrounding the tooth. This kind of abscess develops when the gum pocket becomes blocked by plaque, tartar, and/or food. Because these foreign substances are not removed daily, harmful bacteria proliferate, resulting in a series of reactions. In response to the presence of these substances, the body’s immune system sends particular cells to fight the foreign substances and the harmful bacteria contained in the plaque. Studies have shown that more than one type of harmful bacteria causes gum disease and the resulting abscess. Some types of bacteria found at various stages of gum disease, including abscesses, are Bacteroides, Actinobacillus, Actinomyces, Capnocytophaga, and Treponema. The resulting infections are caused by the reaction between the toxins of these bacteria and the immune cells present to destroy the bacteria. A tooth-related or periapical abscess is usually a result of damage to the nerve of the tooth and is present along with swelling, pain, reddening of the gums, and sensitivity to chewing and/or hot or cold. The tooth related to the abscess usually has a deep cavity or filling. Pus is caused by the destruction of tissue by toxins and interruption of the blood supply. The centre of the abscess absorbs fluid from surrounding tissue, causing the abscess to become larger. Fever, malaise (feeling tired, no energy), and swelling in the neck area may be present with the abscess. The infection may stay localised or spread. If an abscess is deep, a fistula (a tube-like passage from the abscess to the surface of the gums) forms where the fluids are released. However, if the fluids in the abscess are released into the surrounding tissues instead of being discharged on the surface, the infection spreads and is called cellulitis. Fever, chills, and lack of appetite increase as the infection worsens. A condition called cementoma, in which excess bone forms around the root of a tooth or teeth, looks like an abscess during its beginning stage, but it is not. Cementoma, often caused by trauma, is usually seen on lower front teeth. No treatment is required. An abscess may have a sudden appearance (acute) or it may have been present for a long period of time (chronic) without any signs or symptoms. In the acute stage, the gums around the abscess become enlarged, red, tender, and painful. The tooth may be loose and sensitive to chewing. Pressing on the area where the gums and teeth may release pus. A dull pain that throbs and radiates may be present. A periodontal abscess may produce a feeling of sickness, fever, and swelling in the lymph glands in the neck. If the infection has been present for a long time (chronic), there may be no symptoms. Treating an acute abscess is more successful than treating the chronic, which has caused more extensive damage over time. It is important to determine which type of abscess is present so that the appropriate treatment may be rendered. In all three types of abscess, the pus must be drained. Antibiotics may be prescribed if systemic symptoms such as fever and swelling in the lymph glands are present. (Mouth infections often affect the lymph glands in the neck region.) Deep cleaning will be suggested in the gum pocket (periodontal) abscess. If too much bone has been lost and the tooth is too loose, it may have to be pulled.
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
E S FILES A C T COUR
Three convicted of attempted murder lose appeal
Appellate Court refused application to call fresh evidence
By George Barclay
IN 1960, Seetal, Bharat and Pooran charged with attempted murder, were convicted and sentenced to imprisonment. On trial, no use was made of matters contained in the depositions to impugn the reliability of certain witnesses’ identification of the persons charged with the offence. After conviction, and on appeal, application was made to call fresh evidence touching the matters disclosed in the depositions. The Federal Supreme Court – Criminal Appellate Jurisdiction constituted by Chief Justice Hallinan, and Justices of Appeal Rennie and Marnan which heard the appeal, held: the material that formed the subject matter of the application was
available at the trial, and it is unusual for an appeal court to entertain an application because of the lack of professional skill with which the defence was conducted. The application was refused. Mr. Shakoor Manraj, Attorney-at-law, had appeared for the appellant Seetal, Mr. E.V. Luckhoo for the appellant Bharat. Pooran conducted his own defence. Crown Counsel, Mr. E.A. Romao appeared for the Crown, Chief Justice Hallinan delivered the judgment of the court. According to him, the three appellants were convicted of the attempted murder of Alfred Stephens on June 21, 1959. Seetal and Pooran, who are brothers, were sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment and Bharat to 10 years. All three have appealed against sentence and have been heard on the same ground. In addition, Bharat has applied to call fresh evidence which if admitted, his counsel submitted, would be grounds upon which this court might order a new trial. Counsel for Seetal has intimated that if Bharat’s application is allowed then Seetal would apply to amend his grounds of appeal, so that he too would ask the court to order a new trial for him also. Apart from the grounds which the application for fresh evidence disclosed, counsel for the parties abandoned all grounds of appeal, except that as to sentence. The circumstances upon which the application to admit fresh evidence is based relate to the identification of Bharat by Stephens and; the witness Ibrahim. Stephens was a ranger on Plantation Lusignan and Ibrahim assisted him. Part of his duty was to prevent cattle trespass in the cane fields. Turn to page XXXV ►►►
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
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To effectively work on yourself, you must first believe you are worth the effort Beyond the Runway with Dr. Sonia Noel ... Inspiring lives through fashion
MY January started very productively. I was invited to Integrated Security Services to have a discussion with about 70 senior staff on the Laws of Teamwork. The session was truly magnificent and the positive feedback energised me. I must commend Mr Khan for realising the importance of adding value to his staff. One of the best decisions I made was to become a member of the John Maxwell team. The mastermind classes are exceptional and I promised that through this month I will be sharing brief content from my mastermind classes on 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John Maxwell. THE LAW OF THE MIRROR To effectively work on yourself, you must first believe you are worth the effort. That means getting rid of limiting self-beliefs and developing high self-esteem. Similar to what Don Ruiz says in The Four Agreements, Maxwell proposes that you only use yourself as a paragon. Don’t compare yourself to others. QUESTIONS TO HELP FIND YOUR PASSION Do You Like What You’re Doing Now? If you’re not enjoying what you do for a living, you need to take some time to examine why. It is a risk to make a change from what you’re currently doing to what you want to do, but isn’t there also great risk in staying where you are? Which risk would you rather live? What Would You Like To Do? Every successful person I’ve met has a strong sense of his or her abilities and aspirations. They’re leaders in their own lives, and they dare to pursue their dreams on their own terms. When you tap into your passion, it gives you the E & E factor: Energy and Excellence. Can You Do What You Would Like To Do? There’s a big difference between having a dream that propels you to achieve and pulling an idea out of thin air that has no connection with who you are and what you can do. Here are three questions to ask yourself if what you want to do it possible. Do You Know Why You Want To Do What You Would Like To Do? I believe it’s very important to not only know what you want to do but also why you want to do it. I say that because motives matter. When you do things for the right reason, it gives you inner strength when things go wrong. Right motives help you build positive relationships because they prevent hidden agendas and incline you to put people ahead of your agenda. Doing something for the right reasons also keeps life less cluttered and your path clearer. Do You Know What To Do So You Can Do What You Want To Do? To move from what you’re doing now to what you want to do is a process. It begins with the following: Awareness – You have to start by becoming aware of the choices that lead you away from your desired destination. Become very conscious of every choice you make today so you can begin to make smarter choices moving forward. Do You Know People Who Do What You’d Like To Do? My greatest growth has always come as a result of finding people ahead of me who were able to show me the way forward. If you have discovered what you want to do, start finding people who do what you want to do with excellence. Then do what you must to learn from them. Should You Do What You’d Like To Do With Them? If you find a potential mentor, know that the following are
YOUR responsibility: Possess a teachable spirit, Always be prepared for the time you get with your mentor. Set the agenda by asking great questions. Demonstrate how you’ve learned from your time together. Be accountable for what you’ve learned. The responsibilities of a mentor are Strengths, Temperament, Track record, Passion, Choices, Advice. Will You Pay The Price To Do What You Want To Do? When it comes to barriers to success, we are usually our own worst enemies. Taking the steps necessary to live your dreams and do what you want to do will cost you. You will have to work hard. You will have to make sacrifices. You will have to keep learning and growing and changing. Are you willing to pay that price? I certainly hope you are. But know this: Most people aren’t.
When Can You Start Doing What You’d Like To Do? Ask people when they will do what they want to do, and most answer that they hope to do it “someday.” Why not now? Because you’re not ready? Perhaps you’re not. But if you wait until you are, maybe you never will do it. Most of the accomplishments that I’ve achieved in life I began to attempt before I was really ready. Nobody ever got ready by waiting. You only get ready by starting. What Will It Be Like When You Get To Do What You’d Like To Do? When you do what you’ve always wanted to, it will be better than you ever imagined. When I started investing in my personal growth, I didn’t anticipate a compounding return – for me personally a, for the individuals I’ve mentored, and for my team.
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Problems interracial children face THIS topic has rested upon my mind for a long time now. I had two minds about writing it because I found it to be a very controversial and touchy topic in Guyana. I later realised, with much-intended thinking, that who I am should not be controversial. My mother is of Indo-Guyanese decedent while my father has the racial mixture of Chinese, African and Portuguese. I am yet to take an ancestry DNA test, however, it is obvious that I am, of course, a mixedrace child. You would never understand the struggle of being an ambivalent being unless you’re mixed. The first time I remembered being confused about my racial identity was as early as the Second Grade. The world made me,
as innocent as I was, aware that I am in fact different. Our class was learning about the six ethnic (culture) groups in Guyana. The teacher made us all raise our hands to identify our races as she called them out on the blackboard. A confused and desolate Marissa sat on the bench, not knowing who she was, which category of ethnicity she fell under and wondering if her parents lied to her. My parents never allowed me to feel one-sided. To be brutally honest, as I grew I allowed my physicality to get the best of me. I was not dark enough to be considered an African, my eyes were we not hooded enough to be considered a Chinese, my hair was not straight enough to be considered an Indian and my complexion was not fair enough to be considered a Por-
tuguese, A.K.A “red woman”. I was and still am the “different looking” one on both sides of my family. There are many ways in which we can overcome this feeling and mixed-race children. First, we try and educate ourselves as well as people around us on the topic of race. Race is a social construct that was developed by colonial slave masters to justify their actions. If you asked me, there is no such thing as different races. In my readings, it is believed that our physical environment forced us to adapt to it, hence, our ancestors have different physical features depending on their environment and their places of origin across the world. If we allow ourselves and others to think that we are subjected to a specific level of society based on our ‘race’, then the cycle will always continue. You should also learn to accept your cultured-identity and should also be able to choose what you would like to be identified as. For me, filling out a form has always been difficult, when it watered down to answer the question, ‘what race are you?’ Personally, I identify as mixed. There may be persons who have physical features of one race that may be more dominant than the other, so if they’d like to identify as just one race, let them be. At the end of the day, we should be judging a person based off of personality and not physicality. If you find it difficult to deal with, find other mixed-race persons with similar issues and talk to them, we feel better when we can relate to others. Lastly, we should speak up and against racism. Use your stories and your voices to be advocates, let the cycle of racism in your family or community end with you. Kasy Sookram, is a fellow Guyanese artist, she would like to share her story of being a mixed child: “It’s the best of both worlds until some arrogant human pops your bubble by asking a stupid question like, ‘Are you sure that’s your dad?’ My first instinct is always to slap them and ask them how they could be so stupid, but violence is never the answer so I just always explain how genes work. Having an Indian dad and a mixed mom that leans more
to the African side didn’t become a problem until I moved back to Guyana; shocking right? I would have expected the racism talk anywhere else but here. Sad to say it’s still rampant. First, it would start off with little questions like ‘How come you have that surname?’ or ‘Who is Indian for you?’ Then after they have seen my siblings they’d always laugh and say ’They’re nicer than you,’ referring to complexion. Eventually, I just learned to accept it and in most cases ignore the arrogance. As I got older I realised that your name carries weight, especially majority of Indian surnames. In turn, I started to use it to my advantage. One incident that occurred right after I was done with school was when I applied for a job. I believe they only called me in because of my name because when the interviewer saw me it was obvious that she was not at all pleased. During the course of the interview, she made mention that I had all the requirements needed but there were no vacancies at the moment, for me at least. That is something that will stay with me for as long as I live but I learned from it and have come to better accept the fact that I cannot change how people act toward me because of my name or my complexion. Though it is very sad to say that people of a lighter complexion always have a head start even when they are not competing.” As far as I know, people of mixed race are more than just a fetish of some kind. We are more than just a stereotype of being outcasts of society. My parents and their story thought me that love knows no colour. If I am to comfort little Marissa in the second grade, I would tell her all the things I know now about race. I would show her a picture of how her short curly hair would later grow into blossoms of long curls; that she will prevail and do good things despite her racial identity. I would tell her that she is loved by many and she does not need to be under a specific category just to feel better. As far as I know little Marissa, you are a jackpot of many of Guyana’s races; an example of the future.
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
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NAREI takes inoculum trial to Pakuri
RED bean (Vigna unguiculata) is a crop produced by both small and large scales farmers across Guyana, especially in Region Four. The red bean belongs to the leguminosae family. It is high in protein and easily digested. It is regarded as an important food worldwide and is one of the main protein sources for vegetarians. Agriculturally, red bean has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. This feature either eliminates or reduces the amount of added nitrogen required in crop cultivation. As such, it has been identified as a crop suitable for crop rotation system. Given its importance locally, the National Agricul-
tural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has been conducting studies aimed at increasing the yield of the crop to improve farmers’ livelihoods. Common to the trials is the use of Inoculum with rhizobium bacteria, which stimulates nodulation of roots. Hence, causing the plants to provide its own nitrogen and consequently reducing the need for the application of large quantities of nitrogen fertiliser. Last year, the institute partnered with farmer Frederick Dundas of Pakuri, formerly known as St. Cuthbert’s Mission, to conduct a study to investigate the effect of different fertilisation regimen on the crop. This was done using a demonstration
plot on the farmer’s homestead. The project was monitored by NAREI’s Extension Officer, Alicia Hendericks. According to Hendericks, “The project included three plots: control, fertiliser and inoculum+ fertiliser...within the period under investigation data was obtained from all three trial plots....A total of three harvests were done to have a complete analysis, which required the total weight, length of pods and average weights were collected...An analysis was then done per harvest and a comparison was then realised at the end of the experiment showing the difference in pod sizes and weights calculated.”
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Reliving the ordeal By Michel Outridge MOTHERS, who are side by side neighbours, who also lost their sons on December 8, 2018 as a result of a fatal accident at Ogle Public Road, East Coast Demerara, said the holiday season was the most difficult for them. Shirley Gilkes, whose son was killed in the fatal accident that also claimed the life of her neighbour, who was her son’s best friend, told the Pepperpot Magazine that the
Christmas holidays were painful for her. Her son, Rameshwar Singh, 18, of Lot 6 Area ‘B’ Cummings Lodge was an electrician and had gone for a motorcycle ride with Jason Harris. The duo often hung out together and would go on regular outings with the motorcycle. Gilkes told this newspaper she did not celebrate the holidays this year because her son is gone, and she could not cope since every day is a struggle for her to contain her grief.
The late Jason Harris and his mother, Yvonne Moses.
The late Rameshwar Singh, 18.
The woman added that some days are more difficult than others, she would often sit and cry and if anybody talks about the story it makes her sad. “Growing up poor, my son knew the value of things and we had a tiny Christmas tree we would decorate and have in the house, and last year without my knowing he saved up and bought me a 12 foot Christmas tree which he hid under my bed. After his death I eventually found it and I tried to decorate it but I took it down because I could not stand celebrating without him,” she said. Gilkes stated that it is very hard to cope with the loss of losing a child and only a parent can relate to the feeling she is battling on a daily basis. The woman said, “It is really painful and I cry almost every day and although the man who reportedly struck down my son telephoned, I want him to talk to me face to face to explain to me what happened that night.” Turn to page XXXII►►►
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page VII
However, Michelle noted that those tastings are something they are hoping to bring back in this new year. Winedays is also present at festivals, events and parties. “We like to offer you an experience,” Michelle said. In that same vein, Winedays also offers fun backyard games at its events. These include oversized games of Jenga, dominoes and Connect Four. These are to encourage patrons to be more interactive rather than simply standing and drinking wine. “We’re not selling wines, we’re trying to offer an experience and the experience is not very stuffy but rather, very down-to-earth.” Winedays intends to continue its regular events while also introducing some new events this year. Among the continuing events will be “All you can Wine!” It will also be collaborating on an event called “Vin de Nude” with photographer Brian Gomes, a photography exhibit with wines. There is also an interactive art exhibition being planned. Winedays has recently begun collaborating with Delven Adams of the Backyard Café to offer a “wine bike” tour of Georgetown. The attention and response to the initiative have been exceptional. “People are just yearning for things like this in Guyana so we’re super excited,” Michelle related. A short tour running up and down Main Street is planned, as well as a longer one along Church Street to Irving Street and then onto Carifesta Avenue, ending at the Bandstand. Winning the Roraima Wedding Expo 2018 Best Booth Award and the GCCI Small Business of the Year Award were absolute validation, according to Michelle. She related that many people questioned whether they were making the wrong decision when they decided to start Winedays. The fact that Winedays won those two awards, as well as the excellent reviews that it receives for its customer service is ◄◄◄ From page III
John Marshall
“I have a passion for arts and craft and to help the visually impaired and blind because I know how it feels in this situation. People assume that because you’re blind, you’re of no use to the world but I want to prove that wrong,” he expressed. John’s programme teaches the students to make items out of recyclable materials like paper cups, cardboard, plastic, and styrofoam. They are then able to produce beautiful artefacts, jewellery boxes, and tables and chairs, among other items, for sale. But teaching his class of 10 students is by no means easy! “It’s a challenge because I have to actually go to each student and hold their hands, put them on the stuff and then explain what is happening and what they have to do.” And one of his students, 63-year-old Claudette Ramsey Isaacs, has made good use of the training sessions. John did not yet teach the class how to do floral arrangements when the idea came to her and she immediately started working on it. “One day, I took my ‘nut butter’ bottle and put on a handle on it, and made a floral vase. I brought it to John and surprised him. I just had an idea and I worked on it.” Isaacs has been John’s student since he started at the ‘Society.’ She cannot see anything except a little glare. Explaining how she is able to be successful at art and craft, she said: “You do not really need your eyes; you hold and feel. When one sense goes, the others are built up. The hands are most important to us.” On some occasions, though, a sighted person would help them straighten out their designs and so forth. The challenges facing John and the students made them reduce the number of training sessions per week. From meeting five days a week, they now meet only on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10:00hrs to 17:00hrs.
validation of Michelle and Keon’s hard work. It’s a lot of work,” she said. “It’s a lot of networking and collaboration in the background.” Wine inspires social connections. Wine is the quintessential drink where so much can be discussed, according to Michelle. “A simple bottle of wine can invoke amazing conversations about the nuances, about what you taste and don’t taste,” she said. The palate is very subjective she pointed out. She noted that the traditional rules of wine no longer apply. Millenials, she related, are drinking more wine than their parents and in unconventional ways.
XXXI Michelle and Keon have more plans in store for Winedays. “I want amazing things for Winedays,” Michelle said. She explained that she would love a place where people who love wines can come and sit down. “We want to make and bottle our own wines,” she related. “We want to be distributors that are known for our superior wines.” She humbly noted that they have been told that a number of their wines are some of the best on the market and Winedays wants to continue to offer such wines. “The dream is so scary to have that I want amazing, huge, massive things for Winedays!”
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Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XVI
Participants were enlightened on the role and work of the EPA as well as, the Environmental Authorisation process. CFO representatives were also guided on how to properly complete the Environmental Authorisation application form. In addition, Officers from EPA’s Waste Management and Air Quality programmes led practical exercises on noise, air quality and waste management. Officers engaged participants on the use of the noise meter and other the major areas of concerns for the Agency; as well as, mitigation measures to protect human health and the environment. The Guyana Forestry Commission and Regional Offices were also represented at the workshops. In the coming weeks, similar workshops will be held in the other Administrative regions to ensure all CFOs are equipped to become authorised. WHAT IS AN ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION? An Environmental Authorisation means an “Environmental permit, a prescribe process licence, a construction permit or an operations permit.” Environmental Protection Act Cap. 20:05, laws of Guyana As is relates to forestry activities, it is a legally binding document to guide forest operators on best environmental practices before and during harvesting and utilisation of forest resources. The EPA is the only Agency in Guyana, with the Authority to grant Environmental Authorisation. DO I STILL NEED AN ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IF I HAVE A LICENCE FOR THE GFC? Yes, although the Guyana Forestry Commission has jurisdiction for the forest, you still need an Environmental Authorisation to ensure all aspects of your operation protects human health and the environment. GET AUTHORISED!!! The Agency advises all persons involved in developmental activities to be proactive and apply to the Agency for Environmental Authorisation to safeguard your health, the environment and your investment. The Agency will be aggressively pursuing defaulters in 2019 and is advising all those persons who have expired permits to have them renewed promptly to avoid prosecution. You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email us at eit. epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. ◄◄◄ From page XXX
Gilkes added that she wants closure as to how her son met his demise since most things do not make sense. Meanwhile, Yvonne Moses, mother of 20-year-old Jason Harris, who was the owner of the XR Honda 150 motorcycle, told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is still in a state of mourning. She was not in a celebratory mood for the holidays either and spent most of the time crying, since her son, had he been alive, would have celebrated his 21st birthday on December 14, 2018. Instead, he was cremated the day after. Moses added that from the inception she has been hearing a lot of things, and suspected all along that all is not well even though the matter is in court. “Losing a child isn’t an easy thing to digest, it has taken a toll on me and my family and I do not know how I will cope [while at school] being a teacher,” she said. The two friends died on December 8, 2018 on Ogle Public Road, East Coast Demerara, after they were struck off the motorcycle they were on by a jeep. Reports indicated that upon approaching the intersection at the Ogle Access Road, the driver of the jeep was about to turn right, when the motorcycle which was travelling west along the public road, ran into it. Both Harris and Singh, who were reportedly knocked off the motorcycle and fell unconscious onto the roadway, were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), but died early Sunday morning. While a breathalyser test was done on the driver and no alcohol was detected, he is assisting with the investigation. Harris was described as a career-driven individual, who had a liking for motor cycles and had acquired a XR Honda 150 motorcycle, the same one he was riding when the accident occurred on Sunday night. Shirley Gilkes described her son as a loving, jovial and pleasant young man, who was family-oriented.
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XVIII
Exercise has also been known to lower symptoms of other mental health illnesses such as Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post- Partum Depression and Post -Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Exercise sharpens our memory and gives us new levels of motivation, productivity and efficiency to learn new things. This is simply because physical exertion increases the production of cells in parts of the brain that are responsible for memory and learning. It also produces cells responsible for creativity and inspiration. In regards to this, exercise doesn’t only allow you to inspire yourself but others as well. I work extra hard in the gym when I see others giving it their all. Exercise is also a massive preventative and treatment activity in regards to drug abuse. Those who incorporate large amounts of physical activity in their treatment plan are much less likely to relapse. This is because exercise naturally releases the same serotonin and dopamine in the brain as the drug would. It helps specifically with cravings and mild to severe withdrawal symptoms. This can mean that exercise can work as a healthy coping mechanism in general and for any issue. The most common question and issue in regards to exercise as treatment is how to get the motivation to do so in the first place? People who are depressed or anxious (or suffering from any mental illness for that matter) rarely want to leave their bed, much less have the energy to go get exercise. When you feel exhausted and hopeless, keep in mind that exercise is not going to make that worse; it’s a powerful energiser that reduces that fatigue. Remember that you do not necessarily have to leave your home to get physical activity in. Try doing something at home in the beginning. Give yourself only positive self–talk. Say (from the day before) ‘I will exercise for 15 minutes tomorrow.’ If you go to bed thinking that you dislike exercise, that you are physically incapable or that you do not have the time, it will become more difficult to do. Self- talk is extremely important for our energy and motivation. Studies have shown that if you force a smile, even when very sad, you will shortly start genuinely smiling. The same can work for excitement and motivation. If you are new to exercise, it is best to set small goals in the beginning. The biggest mistake people make is committing to hard, heavy and unrealistic routines right off the bat. These are hard to continue and often result in one feeling despondent and giving up hope. It is the same when people start a new diet. They go from eating whatever they want to basically nothing at all; that always results in disappointment. Start small and stick to it. Schedule your workout for the time of day when you feel the most energised. Don’t worry if anyone says working out in the morning (or night) is best for them- you do it when it’s best for you. Only do activities you enjoy. Do not worry about ‘this is the best exercise’ – do what you feel comfortable doing. You can also make exercise a social activity. Low motivation caused by mental health also typically results in isolation. Maybe meet a friend/ family member and go for a walk? Two birds, one stone. Speaking of two birds one stone, why not make your physical activity (in the beginning) something you have to do anyway? Do laundry, clean the house, and do the gardening- this all can count as beginner exercise. Most importantly, every individual needs to find their own personal benefit to exercise. My main motivation for physical exercise is that it tremendously improves my self-confidence and self-esteem. Keep reminding yourself what it does for you. Keep in mind there is light, moderate and vigorous intensity. Light meaning speaking and breathing is still easy, moderate happens when speaking is still easy but your breathing will be short and vigorous, intensity happens when you are very short of breath and have a rapid heartbeat. Moderate exercise only (especially in the beginning) is necessary for someone newly on medication for mental health issues as some medications have side- effects such as dizziness or rapid heart-beat. The same goes for people with panic disorders as the physical effects of exercise are very similar to the effects of panic attacks (shortness of breath, raised heart rate etc.) This can trigger an anxiety attack so start off slowly. Also keep in mind, like anything else, too much exercise is bad for you and can result in injury, so moderation is key. Overall, exercise improves of our mind, body and soul. It makes us feel powerful and resilient. You really cannot go wrong. Keep it up! Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. Suicide Prevention Helpline. 223-0001, 223-0009, 6234444, 600-7896. It is open 24 hours a day. Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!
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In one poem entitled ‘The Abortionist’s Daughter Declares Her Love,’ Ramlochan writes: “When men aspire to terrible jobs, we offer them hushed respect / the blushing necks of virgins” before going on to point out that when women do the same jobs, they “are taught to deserve nothing more than an acreage of sorrow.” Highlighting the patriarchy and its ever-extending tentacles is definitely one of the jobs of a poet and it is one that Ramlochan takes very seriously. In the example above, she points out the hypocrisy of inequality between men and women – in verses that might be referencing everything from the rise of patriarchy in the early days of ritual and virginal offerings to the very modern-day crisis of wage inequality. This ability to connect to items and ideologies that are separated by time, cultures, sex and sexuality, is one of the poet’s many gifts. In forming bridges in her poems, by weaving them with her words, she is also managing to create a bridge between reader and poem and, on a deeper level, ideology with ideology, in a confrontation that is necessary for the occurrence of the realisation that is going to contribute, in part, to the essential wave of change that is necessary for those of us within the Caribbean and the wider world who long for the day when needs such as equality between the sexes will become universal. While there is an anger and a sorrow that blaze through the collection, each poem contains moments of immense beauty. In one of her poems, “Fire Fire,” Ramlochan writes, “I am from islands… Fire, fire / he soothes into my brow. His grandmother was the one to feed him these poems, and to keep my red skin warm he shares her battle stories.” The relationship between the two people presented in this poem is one that is obviously built on love, but the language used seems to indicate that the relationship is one that has all the synergy and heat of the tropics, while also being built on the ways in which the persona is bolstered and helped by his/her lover who gives their all to the persona, to the point where the speaker is connected to fire and the lover, drained, is connected to something cold. The speaker is strong, taking everything he/she needs from the lover. The secret to fully understanding/ appreciating this poem, I believe, lies in the early line of, “I am from islands.” This line indicates that the speaker is not a normal man/woman, as the poet seems to be implying that those from the islands (the Caribbean) should not be misjudged and that their strength and all they are capable of (even immense hurt or death) should not be misunderstood or not taken as it is in all its power and glory. It is a poem that reminds us in the Caribbean of our own strength, while also drawing attention to our capacity for causing immense pain. The contradiction between the islands (Caribbean) and the cold place (Europe/North America) might be indicative of colonialism, which can further be interpreted as an origin for both our immense strength and our capacity for hurt. It might also be a reversal, where the speaker from the islands is taking back and rendering the cold lover helpless – an act that is as much about postcolonial worlds as it is about romantic relationships. “Everyone Knows I am a Haunting” is a slim volume containing over 40 of the most important poems to come out of the Caribbean in recent times. It is a work that addresses everything essential in Caribbean literature: sexuality, identity, dismantling the patriarchy, navigating through power dynamics – while also presenting all of these elements in new and interesting ways that definitely reflect the sensibilities and goals of the modern Caribbean poet.
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019 ◄◄◄ From page XXVI
Stephens and Ibrahim were attacked on a railway line about 5.30 p.m. by three assailants with sticks and cutlasses, and from statements made by the assailants, during the attack they were seeking to kill Stephens because he had impounded cattle belonging to them or their relatives. Ibrahim escaped but Stephens was very badly beaten and wounded. At the trial, Stephens and Ibrahim identified the appellants as the assailants. Stephens said that he had known all three since working on the estate for the past three years; Ibrahim said he had known them since they were small – about 14 years. Going on, the Chief Justice had said, in order to attack the credibility of Stephens’ identification of the appellants, this court is asked to consider two matters which are mentioned in Stephens’ deposition at the preliminary inquiry but which were never mentioned at the trial. Continuing his judgment, Chief Justice Hallinan said that the deposition shows that at the end of the cross-examination by counsel for Bharat, counsel, (by leave of the court) changed Bharat’s position in the dock. Stephens went up to the dock but apparently because of his impaired vision due to the attack on him, he said he could not see the appellants’ faces well and could not identify them. In his deposition Stephens, probably as evidence of motive, referred to an incident which occurred before the attack, the subject of the charge: Seetaal and Bharat had met Ibrahim and himself driving cattle to be impounded and Seetall had attacked him with a stick and took away two cows. The prosecution at the trial never led evidence of this incident nor was Stephens cross-examined about it. After the trial the appellant asked the police for a copy of the complaint which Stephens had made to the Police about the incident. Apparently, this record had been destroyed and all the police could supply was an entry made by Constable Campbell in their records dated May 25, 1959, recording a complaint made by Stephens against one Maga and an unknown man and spoke of blows with a stick and a threat to shoot. The appellant, Pooran, is known as Maga, and counsel submits that this report weakens Stephens’ credibility as the previous incident in May concerns Maga and someone unknown, and did not concern Seetal and Bharat. Chief Justice Hallinan said that the attack on the credibility of Ibrahim’s identification is based on the fact that Ibrahim gave the name of Roopchan also called Rama as the name of one of his assailants - this was on the day he was attacked, June 28. The next day in a further statement he corrected this, saying that it was not Roopchan but his brother Bharat, and that the mistake arose through his knowing Bharat as- Rama, a name by which Roopchan is called. In a statutory declaration, Roopchan, since the trial , has stated that on the morning of June 29, Ibrahim saw Roopchan in the lock-up and affirmed that it was he, Roopchan, whom he had seen attack him. The first thing to be determined on an application of this kind is, to enquire how much of the material by which the defence seeks to attack the credibility of Stephens and Ibrahim was available at the trial. The depositions of both these witnesses were, of course, available for the defence. It could have been put to Stephens that he failed to identify the appellants when in the dock at the preliminary inquiry (PI). Stephens, at the trial, never repeated his allegation that Seetal and Bharat had attacked him on another occasion prior to June 2. Since the trial, the defence has procured the report recorded by Constable Campbell on May 26, but we cannot say that this report is correct or whether it refers to the same incident, as that to which Stephens referred in his deposition. The prosecution were under no duty to supply unasked a copy of this report; indeed, since it was not a statement required to show the inconsistency of anything Stephens said at the trial, we do not think the police were obliged to supply Constable Campbell’s record, even when asked to do so. Dismissing the appeals, the Chief Justice had said, “The attack, the subject matter of the charge, was savage and unprovoked; Stephens, with 15 wounds was left for dead by his assailants. He spent four and a half months in hospital and his sight is permanently impaired. Seetal and Pooran each received two years imprisonment more than Bharat; the reason being that Seetal was the ringleader and Pooran has had many previous convictions, two of which were for wounding.”
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English THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Speech is a learned activity. All that you now know about speaking you have learned by conscious imitation or by subconscious assimilation. Your present speech habits probably are not the best ones that you could have. As you go through study; and attend to the way teacher and taught express themselves, ?constantly check your speech patterns with standards that both sources suggest to you. Work for the best speech of
which you are capable. Be wise. Love you. GRAMMAR Modifiers: Modifiers are the subordinate (not main) elements of a sentence. ? Any word, phrase, or clause which qualifies or limits the meaning of some other part of the sentence in which it stands is a modifier. ? An ill-constructed sentence, displaying the error of the misplaced modifier, has a modifier standing away from the word that it modifies. This fault may result in
What hangs people….is the unfortunate
confusion or absurdity. See circumstance of guilt. examples: WRONG: A herbalist ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON (1850-1894) was planting some carrion crow seedlings in long boots The Wrong Box and rubber gloves. (case of (with Lloyd Osbourne, 1889) ch.7 misplaced modifying phrase) RIGHT: A herbalist, in long boots and rubber gloves, e. At long last Travis Henry caught on was planting some carrion crow seedlings. about the tomfoolery around him on the Explanation: The phrase, in long boots hinterland flights. and rubber gloves, modifies herbalist and More information: Modifiers may be must be placed near it to avoid an absur- classified, according to their function in the dity. sentence, as adjectival or adverbial. Such words as only, ever, almost, are An adjectival modifier is used to modfrequently misplaced. ify a noun or pronoun; an adverbial modiFurther: In the sentence - I only need fier is used to modify a verb, an adjective, some warm water with three drops of bal- or another adverb. Sometimes there is a sam vinegar, the word only is separated problem the sentence where the adjective from vinegar, the noun which it modifies, and adverb forms are confused. Try to and it seems to modify the intervening avoid this mix-up. See examples. verb, need. (case of misplaced modifying (1) Misuse of adjective form for adverb: single word) Wrong: It was a real hard decision. The sentence should read: I need only Right: It was a really hard decision. some warm water with three drops of balRight: It was a real decision. sam vinegar. (2) Misuse of adverb form: Wrong: The waves rose highly. SOME PRACTICE Right: The waves rose high. 1. State what differences of meaning NOTE: in such instances, confusion are brought about by the placing of the occurs largely because certain English modifiers in the groups of sentences given adverbs have two forms: below: ?) One, a form identical with an adjec?.(i) The Christmas presents were com- tive form and distinguished only by its use ing from Barbados by airplane. in the sentence. (ii) The Christmas presents from Barb) The other, a form ending in –ly. bados were coming by airplane. Example: right, rightly; hard, hardly; b.(i) The senior lecturer advised Ra- late, lately; near, nearly. leigh Joseph not to return to classes with[Certain other adverbs retain both out seeing a specialist. forms, but only the –ly form is in respect(ii) Without seeing a specialist, the able use as an adverb; the simpler form senior lecturer advised Raleigh Joseph not remains in good use as an adjective.] to return to classes. (Topic to be continued) c.(i) Simon Peter drinks cold black tea without milk only on workdays. LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS (ii) On workdays, Simon Peter only GRAMMAR: Pronouns ‘I’ and ‘me’ drinks cold black tea without milk. A. 1. Princess and I had waited for (iii) Only Simon Peter drinks cold black a clear directive from the sightseeing tea without milk on workdays. team-leading group downstream. 2. d.(i) To be honest, the move does not at Team leader, Daniel Dundas, soon exall seem valid. plained to us children that schools of (ii) The move does not at all seem valid manatees will be met about one mile to be honest. away. 3. Later, my partner Simone 2. Correct the errors in the following and I wrote a poem about the schools sentences. of manatees our team encountered. 4. ?. Sally had a bunch of multi-coloured We two partners saved the poem for ribbons fastened to her car trunk handle in publishing on our return to college. B. the shape of a question mark. 1. The guide showed me a model of the b. Not only do the tactful foreign busi- respiratory system. 2. Mrs McDonald nessmen willingly show visitors around told Angelena and me that the sun is their sports goods shops but they also tell actually a star. 3. Colin Haynes and I them about the cricket tournament The gave an opinion about a school rule we Defenders won the season before to put disagreed with. 4. Some farmers and them at ease. we were encouraged to plant large maric. The sanctuary had windows that were gold farms. C. a. All the trainees who decorated with so highly designed and attended the assembly were instructed to embroidered curtains that except for a lit- leave their baggage in the large cabinet tle stain at their bottom edges they almost at the entrance. b. As public outrage looked perfect. over contaminated tinned vegetables d. The Carnegie lecturer gave Johann a becomes stronger, people will demand small rules book on how to survive without more organically grown vegetables and water for a week for her birthday. fruits.
Chronicle Pepperpot January 13, 2019
Pineapple upside-down cake
INGREDIENTS 1 box Vanills cake mix ( 461g ) 4 eggs 1 cup 2% milk 1/3 cup margarine ( for batter ) 1/4 cup margarine ( for glaze ) 1 cup brown sugar 1 tbsp. vanilla essence canned pineapple slices maraschino cherries METHOD 1. Coat pan by greasing with margarine and coating with flour 2. in a pan melt the 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup margarine together, once it starts to bubble remove. 3. add the melted mixture to your coated pan evenly, set aside 4. beat eggs and melt the 1/3 cup margarine 5. in a mixing bowl add cake mix, add milk and mix in, add beaten eggs, melted margarine and mixed essence . 6. mix well Layering the Cake ------------------1. Preheat oven to 350 F 2. add the pineapple slices first 3. add a cherry in each pineapple slice hole 4. add cake mix 5 bake for 30-35 mins
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