Celebrating Diwali Every year, Guyanese are treated to a majestic display of lights and rich storytelling during the Diwali Motorcade. In this 2016 photo, a member of the Golden Om Dharmic Youth Organisation depicts Maha Lakshmi, Goddess of Wealth, Prosperity and Remover of Darkness (Fidal Bassier photo)
Sunday October 31, 2021
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
A Guyanese Catholic tradition in New York
A section of the congregation at the Guyanese Mass 2021 in New York (Photo by Francis Q. Farrier) Chief Celebrant was Bishop John Persaud, who is from Kitty in Georgetown, Guyana. He is now Bishop of Mandeville, Jamaica (Photo by Francis Quamina Farrier)
By Francis Quamina Farrier FOR the past 32 years, Guyanese Catholics and their friends based in New York City, have been attending a special annual Mass at which they pray for the well-being of their fellow Guyanese back home and send financial assistance for previously identified projects. That includes the Soup Kitchen at the Brickdam Presbytery in Georgetown, which feeds many of the needy in the capital city. This annual spiritual, patriotic and humanitarian project was the brainchild of New York-based Monsignor Paul Jervis, formally of La Penitence, Georgetown. He visits Guyana from time to time and sees firsthand the Guyanese people’s needs at home. For over three decades, the priest’s efforts have been loyally supported by a committee comprised mainly of former altar boys of the Brickdam Catholic Cathedral in Georgetown. Most of these committee members had migrated from Guyana decades ago but continue to be extremely patriotic to the Land of their Birth. Most of them visit “The Land of Many Waters” from time to time; sometimes even bringing along with them their American or Canadian friends to enjoy the beauty of the “Green Land of Guyana”. They also experience the
varied local cuisine and of course the pleasant weather; a country void of hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, monsoon rains, devasting floods, hail storms, snow storms, wild fires, mudslides, sinkholes or volcanoes spewing red-hot molten lava gobbling up all in their path; none of those wraths of Mother Nature is ever experienced in Beautiful Guyana. The chief celebrant at these annual Guyanese Masses in New York City is usually a Guyanese-born, or Guyana-based priest who can appraise the congregation in New York first-hand about the progress and the challenges which the Catholic church and the Nation at large faces in Guyana. Monsignor Paul Jervis has also been doing quite a lot of extra-curricular work in his adopted homeland; he has built a church from the ground up and also written a book entitled “Quintessential Priest” which has documented the work of Irish-American Monsignor Bernard Quinn. He is a priest who proved not just by words but more so by deeds, his love for people of colour at a time when racism was so much more rampant and systemic and a way of life in the United States of America. In his book Msgr. Paul Jervis also chronicles the evil acts of the racist organisation the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) which burned down an orphanage built by Mon-
signor Bernard Quinn, an orphanage that cared for many children of colour including a few who had connections with British Guiana. Having had the orphanage rebuilt after the destruction by arson, the KKK burnt down the orphanage a second time. That was no deterrent, for the good priest had it rebuilt yet again and proved that good can and does triumph over evil. What is of note regarding the congregation’s make-up at the annual New York Guyanese Masses is the representation of all the races of Guyana, as they meet and greet and worship together in love and unity. A few of them travel from other States, including from far-away Florida to be part of the celebration. There are also a few who travel all the way from neighbouring Canada. At the end of this year’s Mass, Msgr. Paul Jervis who started the tradition and has been with the organising committee for over three decades announced that he is stepping down as head of the Mass Committee but that he would still be associated with it less actively. Special mention was made of Colin Smith, the Editor of the Guyana Catholic Standard, who was seriously ill at the time of the Mass and who recently passed away in Guyana.
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
Filling a necessary gap in the health sector
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Local doctor pursues Haematology after noticing the need among patients
By Telesha Ramnarine DR. Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu is the country’s one and only haematologist who decided to pursue studies in the field purely because she was drawn in by the number of patients she knew she could help, but just didn’t have the medication or mode of diagnosis available. She discussed her plans to study Haematology with the authorities at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), who then arranged for her scholarship to study in Canada. Once she gained the speciality, she returned about two years ago and started up the Haematology Clinic and Department at the GPHC. According to a Johns Hopkins report, Haematology is the study of blood and blood disorders. “Haematologists…are highly trained healthcare providers who specialise in diseases of the blood and blood components. These include blood and bone marrow cells,” the report explained, adding, “Haematological tests can help diagnose anaemia, infection, haemophilia, blood-clotting disorders, and leukaemia.” Being in internal medicine, Dr. Sukhu saw firsthand how people suffered from blood-related problems because there was no specialised person to deal with their conditions. “These things required people who are specialised in these disorders, but we didn’t have anyone.
ther her studies in Haematology. “A lot of people have bleeding disorders but think they’re normal. Females will have heavy bleeding at certain times of the month and think t h a t ’s n o r m a l . Really, there is a certain amount of bleeding that should take place during this time and anything above that needs to be investigated. People will also have low blood counts, low iron for years and years, and don’t even know it because they are not being diagnosed. T h a n k s t o Haematologist Dr. Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu work being done at the clinic, these and other related situations can be sorted out. COVID-19 and Blood Clots Dr. Bemaul-Sukhu decided to pursue Haematology after seeing people in need of specialised services
Not having the speciality means treatment was also not available,” she explained in an interview with the Pepperpot a few days ago. “You will see someone bleeding profusely; it could’ve been so many rea-
Family support came in handy for Dr. Bemaul-Sukhu during her studies
sons why they’re bleeding, but because there was no haematologist around, the testing that is required to diagnose these patients specifically was not available,” she explained. Having completed her studies, Dr. Sukhu informed the hospital and lab of what tests and medications she would require to diagnose and treat her patients and thus got the ball rolling with the clinic. “I’ve seen patients suffer and how an exact medication can turn their lives around. There was this guy who was bedridden for more than a month; the blood count was so low he was bleeding all the time and was just being given blood products. But he wasn’t getting better until we gave him another medication that was right for him,” she reflected. Seeing that people were so helpless because of not having a speciality doctor around; and knowing that she could make a difference if she had access to the right equipment and medication prompted Dr. Sukhu to fur-
Dr. Sukhu has shared that it is imperative for persons to be vaccinated as COVID is high risk for blood clots and bleeding. “Every week, I’ll see persons with blood clots who’ve had COVID. Because of COVID, people are afraid to take the vaccine, but taking the vaccine lessens the severity of your infection,” she explained. She stressed that those unwilling to be vaccinated against COVID place themselves at an increased risk. “So if you have bleeding disorders, you should still get your vaccine because if you do get COVID, then your bleeding disorder can actually be worse. If you’re at risk for blood clots, then you should still get your vaccine because COVID actually increases your risk.” Meanwhile, according to an article by Medical News Today, problems with the blood can affect several of the body’s systems, such as the lymphatic system, a network of tissues and organs that clear waste. Blood disorders sometimes stem from problems with the bone marrow, where the body makes most of its blood cells. Haematology, the publi-
Dr. Bemaul-Sukhu is now heading the Haematology Clinic and Department at GPHC.
cation states, aims to understand how these problems occur, how they affect a person’s health, and how to treat them. Some tests and procedures that a Haematologist may perform include complete blood cell count (This test can help diagnose anaemia, inflammatory diseases, and blood cancer. It can also help with monitoring blood loss and infection); Platelet count (This test helps diagnose and monitor
bleeding disorders); Blood enzyme tests (a doctor uses to help diagnose cardiovascular conditions, including heart attacks); Bone-marrow biopsy (This procedure can help diagnose and monitor anaemia, thrombocytopenia, which involves having a low platelet count, and some cancers); and blood transfusions (This involves the body receiving healthy blood intravenously — through an IV).
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
Therapy through play made possible with new Sensory Room at ‘Ptolemy Reid’
By Telesha Ramnarine
CALVIN Lawrie, an occupational therapist, based at the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, is continuing
nothing specific was being done to enhance their sensory abilities. So Calvin began working on creating a sensory room and has already made sig-
can achieve certain milestones. Not every child would learn in a regular setting. A lot of times, you have to adjust the setting and children would learn through their
special chair in it for children with poor sitting balance. “The sensory room is a holistic approach. It’s not just for occupational therapy. We would have some children
Occupational Therapist, Calvin Lawrie
The sensory room is equipped with sensory toys like those that are musical, light up and make noise
to make a difference in the lives of children with disabilities, especially with his idea to design a sensory smart room at the facility since his posting there earlier this year. The idea to create such a room sprang from a final year presentation he did as part of a group at the University of Guyana in 2017, based on sensory integration for children. The exercise made him more conscious that while much attention was given to children’s physical ability,
nificant progress in finding a spot and equipping it with some of the items needed. “We’re building as we go along, trying to accumulate more stuff for the room. It’s not quite there yet; it has a far way to go, but we have the basic things in the room, and we are improvising and making much of what we have,” he shared in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine recently. “We are catering for children with sensory delays; to stimulate their senses so they
senses,” he explained. The idea behind the room is to cater to every child with every disability, especially for children with Autism who might be more sensitive to noise or light or may simply not like the texture of the ground. The room is a very simple one with a lot of puzzles, soft toys, grass mats, magic sand, play-doh, tumble and exercise balls. It is also equipped with sensory toys like those that are musical, light up and make noise. There is also a
The room so far has the basic items needed to help the children
from speech and language therapy that would be referred to the sensory room. We would also have children from physiotherapy,” Calvin explained. Having been around physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy, nothing beats pediatric occupational therapy for Calvin. He’s long had a passion for working with children with disabilities. “I’ve always had a love
for this because I’ve been around children with disabilities for most of my life, and I find that ‘Ptolemy Reid’ is a part of me. I just love working with children and I’ve come to see that working with children has a lot to do with play. It’s therapy through play. So I basically teach children how to play and how to play properly and I don’t ever get overwhelmed because I love it,” he expressed. Calvin’s dad, Anand Mangru, has been the headmaster of Harold B Davis Special School for many years and still serves in that position. So growing up, he’s always been exposed to children with disabilities as many
days after finishing school, he would make his way over to his dad. It was here that Calvin believes his love for this field of work developed. He derives great satisfaction from seeing his patients’ progress, moving from one stage to another and becoming independent enough to do things for themselves that they simply could not do before. A few donations have helped Calvin and his team start up the sensory room at the centre, but they still need a lot more sensory toys and other items. Anyone wishing to contribute to the room can do so by first getting in touch with the centre.
The room is a very simple one with lots of puzzles, soft toys, grass mats, magic sand, play-doh, tumble and exercise balls
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
Defying the odds
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Mothers proud of their children’s success amidst trials By Dillon Goring “[I WON’T] lose faith in them. They have to make it. I am going to work with them, so they will become somebody,” said Anita Jaigobin. She is the mother of disabled twin boys who were successful at the recent National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). Anita’s sons, Tristian and Christian Bhagwadin are twins with cerebral palsy. The mother told the Pepperpot Magazine that it is difficult for her since the twins require special assistance with regard to learning. Because of their needs, she has to ensure that she finds the time to give them extra attention. “But it was very good for them. You know what I did, I would have myself, my daughter who would render assistance, she would teach them Maths, that’s why I am so happy and grateful to God,” Anita, who is a single parent, said. She noted that the boys are very willing children where learning is concerned and apart from their disability, they are very much like other children. “I would be there for them to eat, when they are finished eating, I would make them pack their bags. I would clean them up until they learn to do these things by themselves. I would teach them. It is not easy for me as a single parent,” an emotional Anita explained. She expressed that at one point in her life, she felt that it was difficult for her children to write the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), given their disability. There was always the question of whether they would pass or fail.
Shuanna Singh (left) and her family
However, she remained confident in God and her children’s ability to pass their exam, but nevertheless, was sure that she would be content with whatever results they obtained. Anita was overjoyed by her sons’ performance at the NGSA: Tristan obtained 370 marks, while Christian obtained 375 marks. The boys gained places at the Fort Wellington and Woodley Park Secondary Schools, respectively. Kavita Singh is another parent who is elated over her daughter Shuanna’s performance at the NGSA despite her daughter’s disability. Shuanna obtained 408 marks and a place at the Mahaicony Secondary School. “Apart from her being immobile, she is pretty much the same as any other child. When she was smaller, I would say she had a great childhood because she was easier to fetch around… But as she got older, that became a little harder for us,” Kavita said. “As a result of that, we have to sit down and plan when we want to go out, when we want to go on vacation as a family. Still, she is such a lucky child to be in a family where everyone adores her. As a result of her disability, space is provided as compared to the other children.” She further explained that because of her locality, there aren’t many children in her class; nevertheless, she is a friendly person. “Some of her friends would come home before the pandemic to study with her, but during the pandemic we tried to be socially distanced as possiTristian ble because her condition makes her more vulnerable. But when her friends came over, she was always chatty and quite normal,” Singh told the Pepperpot Magazine. Singh explained that as her daughter progressed through the various classroom levels, the family noticed that there the young girl began experiencing difficulties in executing simple tasks, such as holding her pen. As Shuanna moved from one school to the next, she began to experience difficulties in her interaction with other students and teachers, since not everyone was accommodative of a child with a disability. Due to the need for Shuanna to develop her writing skills, she remained in nursery school for a few extra years before she entered primary school at the Grade Three level. However, the family said it was an uphill task getting teachers to understand that Shuanna could be just as the other students in her class. “When she went into Grade Three, that was where there was this mentality where people
and Christian Bhagwadin
treated her differently. We started being proactive and would pop in unexpectedly at school. One day we dropped in and stood outside of her classroom looking at what was happening,” Kavita recalled. “We saw all the other children had a reading book and were doing reading, but she was never given a reading book and, mind you, she is a fluent reader. We started asking her things, and she said that is how it is every day. We started becoming very worried.” Both parents expressed that they want the Guyana Government to pay rapid attention to students who are facing physical challenges and ensure that there are adequate resources that can enable them to access quality education. According to a Ministry of Education post, the Education Ministry will continue to assist where possible. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alfred King, is quoted as saying that the Minister of Education is passionate about ensuring that during the pandemic, learning loss is significantly reduced among all learners.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
The agricultural village of Coglan Dam is ideal for a quiet country lifestyle
Coglan Dam Village (Carl Croker photos)
By Michel Outridge THIS week the Pepperpot Magazine visited the village of Coglan Dam which is located within Pouderoyen district, West Bank Demerara to highlight the way of life of the people.
The village is set deep within the rice fields, down a long winding all-weather road which was recently upgraded and it is five miles long up to the housing area and other six miles to Windsor Forest vast rice lands which can be accessed from
there. Coglan Dam has about 1600 residents of Indo and Afro Guyanese ethnicities with 163 house lots and it is a quiet, breezy place which is just perfect for a family life. This village is between
Focus on the Village
Vreed-en-Hoop and Versailles and it is one of those villages that runs very deep into the backlands area and it is a rice cultivation/agricultural village. Most of the locals have been there all their live while, some married into the village and there are hardly any newcomers. The villagers are mostly related and it is a community where the people live without fear of being robbed and would leave their doors unlocked.
Almost every adult is gainfully employed with both the private and public sector or they are self-employed and work from home. Coglan Dam has three shops and several bars including, Infinity Bar and other bottom house ‘watering holes’ and hideouts just perfect for that quick getaway hang. The people lead simple lives and most have small kitchen gardens, plant their own food and catch their own fish in the canal that
runs through the village. Coglan Dam is a place with large shady trees by the roadside and wooden chairs and benches for that afternoon ‘sit-down’ and chat kind of thing the locals are accustomed to. It is a place where everybody knows each other and it is a safe neighbourhood and minutes away from the Demerara Harbour Bridge and Vreed-en-Hoop, a central hub for many businesses, a SEE PAGE XVI
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
Locals taking it a day at a time in Coglan Dam
By Michel Outridge IT was raining all day and due to the all-day rainfall, Ramnaresh Lall, a painter, was unable to go to work
of those men who don’t sit idly and always does something constructive with his time. It is his favourite pastime, catching fish with a cast net
ago and he could not recover from the loss before he invested in some ducks and fowls. “In life when one thing flop you have to get back up and try something else to stay afloat and make ends meet financially,” he said. The pensioner
Lynette Sanichara so he decided to make the most of the day by throwing his cast net to catch fish in the canal in his village. The 54-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that even if it rains, life has to go on and one has to use that time to do something and he was doing just that despite the downpour. As a painter, he cannot work at these times, so when he is not tending to his kitchen garden or doing yard chores he would catch fish for the home. The father of four is one
and he had just started when the team caught up with him and had pulled in a few patwas. It goes well with dhal and rice, fried to a crisp. Lall has lived all his life in Coglan Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara and considers the place his home and doesn’t see himself living elsewhere. He had a small poultry business but lost it all due to flooding in his backyard and same can be said for his garden, which was also inundated. It happened two months
Meanwhile, also in Coglan Dam is the home of 68-year-old Lynette Sanichara, whose son lives in the back house of a big plot and has a nice, well-kept house and yard with plants and flowers. The local told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is accustomed to waking up early and getting her chores done and preparing meals for that day; a routine that she takes seriously. She was a vendor at Stabroek Market for many years before she retired and is no stranger to hard work and long hours, selling greens and working for other people. The mother of one stated that she has been working since 1980 and it is time for her to take things one day at a time since she is no longer blessed with youth. Sanichara added that her husband passed away in 1991 and she single-handedly put her son through school and he turned out well, he is a welder and has a family of his own. “I toiled day in, night out for everything I have and it was not easy. Hard work pays off and today I can relax and enjoy my old age,” she said. She moved to the village
Shop of Joy Harding after marriage and it is a quiet place where the people co-exist in harmony and without any fuss. Sanichara pointed out that she lost her small poultry business and kitchen garden to the flood and only a few flowers survived. The shopkeeper
Harding added that things are well at her end and she is pleased with the simple, country life she has with her family. She stated that most of the locals are people who originated from the
village and lived all their lives there and there are just a handful of people who moved there through marriages but the people know each other and are a close-knit community.
Ramnaresh Lall (Carl Croker photos)
Joy Harding is one of three shop owners in Coglan Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara and she resides in an extended family setting. She described life as good and is the mother of five. All her children are grown and are earning an honest dollar including, her son, who has a horse-drawn cart small business. Harding is a local of the village and she knows how to live among the people to enjoy a drama-free life. “Around here you have to know how to live and everything will be fine and I am good this way, the people support my shop and we are all one,” she said. However, she is happy about the road upgrade that took place a month ago and their lives have been enhanced with the all-weather road which was once a mud dam.
Focus on the Village
Ramnaresh Lall fishing in the canal at Coglan Dam
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Life in Coglan Dam
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
By Michel Outridge HJAJIJAN Khan is 79 years old and she is looking forward to celebrating her 80th birth anniversary, which will be in June next year. She has been residing at Coglan Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara for the past 36 years, a place she calls home, although her hometown is Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. This pensioner told the Pepperpot Magazine that even though she is stricken with severe arthritis in both legs life has been fair and recalled she worked alongside her husband for many years before retiring to a quiet life. The mother of six spends her days doing household chores such as cooking and
and had several acres of prime rice lands opposite their house, on the other side of the village but he sold it so now it is privately-owned. She related that in her younger days she used to work in the rice fields with other farmers, throwing paddy and assisting in the harvesting of rice for many years and it is believed due to that type of work she is suffering from arthritis. “Living with arthritis is serious, the pain is overwhelming and you are in constant pain and can barely help yourself but I does try to cook and clean up after me and my husband before we do not want to burden our children to take care of us,” she said. Khan stated that to stretch her legs, she would
Gangadai Gaijandai cleaning and resides on the lower flat of her two-storey house, a son and his family occupy the top flat. She is the grandmother of 16 and great grandmother of 17. Khan added that her father-in-law was a rice farmer
walk about a few houses every morning just to get some form of exercise to keep fit, but it is very painful. She is an early riser and had already made lunch of calaloo with chicken and rice. Khan reported that she
Haniff Mohamed Khan likes the quietness of the village and the peace and they both go hand in hand and it is a simple life they lead in Coglan Dam. After cooking and cleaning, she would take a bath and sit in the verandah to relax and chat with her husband. “Old age is nice but it comes with a lot of pains and sickness so we are making the most of it,” she said. S h e i s , h o w e v e r, thankful she can walk and do things for herself. Khan used to plant fruits and greens and walk and sell before she retired and worked hard to assist her husband in the home. Her husband, Haniff Mohamed Khan will be celebrating his 80th birth anniversary on Monday and he is expected to do so quietly by giving thanks and prayers. He is retired and spend most of his life working in the rice fields with his father but 10 years ago he suffered a stroke on the left side and has never been the same. The gentleman is a diabetic, and he once ploughed the rice lands for his father
Hjajijan Khan
Fireside at the home of Gangadai Gaijandai (Carl Croker photos)
SEE PAGE XXV
Focus on the Village
Garden of Gangadai Gaijandai
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
The energetic homemaker
By Michel Outridge
SATTIE Mahadeo is a stayat-home mother of one who takes care of the home and spends her time tending to chores and cooking, but recently, she is laid up due to surgery and is in recovery mode. With her son and her husband at her side, she is being taken care of and seems to be in good spirits. The 45-year-old reported that life at Coglan Dam is easy and good because since she got married to a local of the village 25 years ago and moved there, it has been quiet. Mahadeo added that she is originally from Canal #2 Village, also on the West Bank Demerara and over the years became comfortable living in Coglan Dam. Her husband Prakash Mahadeo is a veterinarian/Livestock Officer and a Councillor and is well-known and he rears his own livestock and poultry in their backyard. He has some cows, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and had some meat birds, which were sold recently. She related that the people of Coglan Dam are working folk, some rice farmers, cash crop farmers, poultry and livestock farmers, self-employed people and others, who work outside the village. “I had surgery on both legs, so I have been laid up for four months, but I am recovering and using an aid to walk until I can stand on my own two feet as time goes
Sattie Mahadeo and her son, Sanjeev Mahadeo at their home in Coglan Dam (Carl Croker photos) by, but I cannot say life is unfair at this time because I have a lot to be thankful for,” she said. Mahadeo stated that being the last house before the vast rice fields, she feels safe because next door, she has her in-laws, and they do not worry about thieves since anything hardly ever goes missing. Even though it was a very rainy day, the homemaker had already prepared dhal puri with channa curry for breakfast and had made chicken chowmein for lunch and was considering her options for a dinner menu. Mahadeo pointed out that they have electricity, potable water, internet, cable and almost everything that is needed for a good life, so they only go out when necessary.
Vans and canter trucks would pass almost every day vending from groceries to greens, cooking gas and bottled water. Due to heavy rainfall that day, there was some water accumulation in the backyard and other parts, but they usually only get flooding when there is constant rainfall. However, giving a background to the history of the village, Mahadeo told the Pepperpot Magazine that she heard from the elders, who have since passed on that Coglan Dam was a mud dam and it was used as a main route for transporting slaves to the vast rice and cane fields back in the colonial days of slavery. Back then, as children, when there was no electricity, they used to hear chains drag-
Focus on the Village
ging and horses passing and
cries and other things, but no one ventured out to see. It was haunted, but as the place developed and became populated, all that faded away, and it became a village, Coglan Dam, which benefitted from infrastructure such as a good road replacing a mud dam. From the village chatter, Mahadeo stated that the West Demerara School building, before it was the school, it was the home of a man named Coglan, whose house had 100 windows and one had to be closed because only government buildings are allowed to have 100 windows, and the village was named after him, the lands was his. She added that most of the elders have since passed on, that is, fore-parents of her
spouse, who told these stories growing up so it remained with them and they would reply same on whoever wishes to know. Mahadeo stated that there are many stories and the older people knew a lot about the village but sadly there are no longer around to share them. She pointed out that the people worked hard as rice farmers and those that did not have their own lands worked with others and they toiled over time to buy plots and build houses most of which was inherited by their families. Mahadeo pointed out that the village is large with rice lands, all transported, privately-owned, and used for large-scale rice cultivation.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
Coglan Dam family aiming for the sky By Michel Outridge COOKING is part of Chitra Candy’s life and she would not have it any other way so she started a small business. In this canteen, folk can get a variety of delicious, wholesome foods every day at Windsor Estate Canteen. Being self-employed is also empowering for the mother of two, who would get up at 02:00hrs in the morning to prepare meals for the canteen. Candy likes a variety and she would ensure there are more than three different dishes on the menu daily so customers can make a choice and almost everything goes with fried chicken, baked chicken and baked fish. She is a talented cook and she makes use of her skills and experience to cook good foods daily to serve to customers and it is indeed a rewarding job to put smiles of the faces of people, looking for a tasty, affordable meal be it breakfast or lunch. “I am an independent person and I know about working for my own money and I am using my skills to earn and it feels good being good at something that provides an income to the home,” she
Chitra Candy (Carl Croker photos) She is a resident of said. Candy is a pleasant and Coglan Dam, Pouderoyen, warm person who doesn’t West Bank Demerara and waste time on idle chatter and has a nice house and likes uses her time wisely to cater her village. Candy is originally from to her customers, her canteen Essequibo Coast, but she and home. “Working is essential to relocated to Coglan Dam 30 have a good life and you can- years ago after marriage. She explained that she not just sit and expect to get things out of thin air but hard used to work and live in Barwork produces whatever you bados and after some years, need in life is often possible,” they acquired some money and returned to Guyana and she said. Candy added that be- constructed a house and has ing a full-time mom and a been here since. “I am always busy at self-employed person is often difficult but life is all about work and hardly ever at home making sacrifices and she is so I don’t really mix but life willing to walk the long aisle is peaceful here and I like it that way,” she said. to success.
Sarah Candy and her pet, Rosie Candy is doing an office administration course offered by the current government and she is grateful for it because being able to study at her age and point in life is something she has been meaning to do for a long time. She related that growing up she had a simple life and tertiary education wasn’t possible then so she is making use of her time to do some studies to build her resume. Candy is willing to try other jobs and she is doing that just by qualifying herself to become marketable. She has a supportive family that pitches in to assist her in her canteen business and for that she is very pleased. Sarah Candy, the teacher Candy’s daughter, Sarah Candy is a teacher at West Demerara Secondary School and doesn’t do any face to face teaching currently due to the pandemic. She is involved in online classes five days a week with her students. The 25-year-old is active in reaching out to her students via online classes and that day she had nine students in her hour-long Mathematics and Science class. Candy is also interested in photography and plans to enrol in a class but has since bought a camera is gaining
experience through the lens by taking photos when she has the time for a hobby. “Teaching is fun once you are passionate about it but you must have a pastime to be able to do something in your spare time and apart from having five poodles, I like photography which is intriguing to me,” she said. The school teacher told the Pepperpot Magazine that she began teaching in February this year after completing her studies at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE). She is very proud of herself because she is a teacher at the same secondary school she attended. Candy said she wasn’t a slow learner but saw how some students were treated by some teachers and she wanted to change that trend. She became motivated to
become a teacher because she wanted to help students and treat each one of them with respect and attention without being impartial in imparting knowledge. Candy stated that she treats all her students the same way and doesn’t have any favourites or show any impartiality and that feels good because every child deserves the same. Although she prefers face to face learning with the pandemic, they were forced out of school and had to resort to online teaching which is very challenging. Candy dedicates two hours daily from Mondays to Fridays for online classes with Grades eight and nine students. Even though she has more than 100 students some do not even log in the classes but are online.
Rosie
Focus on the Village
sharing their journeys XVIII CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
XI
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 10, 2021
g seven amazing women from the Women Anthologies. st of Watch Radio NY requested an interasked him if it was okay for me to invite join me. I am sharing some excerpts from
Evan Phillips -- born in St Lucia, living in
towards being a Midwife of Purpose came f being broken, displaced, and ough this journey, I experienced a divorce, te and got displaced education administrator’s position. Coupled were two major eclipses One week later I completed my life. An eclipse happens when you can my assignment with CTO calling becomes greater than your current and was now ready to move hrough this process, you can transcend to a on to my next career move. thinking where you can connect with your I called Monique to let her ourself as one with nature. know I was available as we blett – born in Guyana and living in NY agreed and she was so hapegan “If to have the real experience of dreamyou don’t have char- decided to share the pref- or management skills. It is seminars and academpy to have me start my first my dream world alive. I was immediately acter power will destroy ace from and an excerpt character. Character is the ic programs focus on temporary assignment with interview with the agency where they tested you.” Those words from Dr. of the introduction of this cradle of credibility for the vision, skills, manageDeutsche Bank. My first n using Microsoft Office and typing speed. WE recently first year of the Virtual Myles Munroecelebrated are perma-thetransformational book. leader. Without the element ment, organization, Writers Retreat and we had a lot to celebrate in such a of strong, noble, honourable teamwork, and many nently stored in my mem- “The Power of Character short time.Thank We have from Guyana, French ory bank. youhad forpeople in Leadership”-How Value, character, leadership and all other helpful subjects. Guiana, Trinidad,feedback Barbados,Morale, The Bahamas, Suriname, the overwhelming Ethics, and Princi- its potential achievements are Yet few of these coursAntigua, from St Lucia, South Africa, Nigeria, Cameroon, in danger of cancellation. Ev- es address the topic of received last week’s ples Affects Leadership. Canada, and parts of the United States. The ery leader is only as safe and the leader’s character. column and thevarious encouragefirst to publish was Wendy Hermonstine and she secure as his character. I offer The subject is either mentperson to share some more PREFACE is now working on her second book. Alicia Amanda pub- this book as a resource on downplayed or nevcontent from the legend. lished a couple of powerful books, Phil Umoru and comBev- this often-neglected aspect of er covered at all. This His books are so The Iko-Ojo most valuable erley just Beenthe alsopreface published that has theirs. ponent of leadership is not leadership, which is personal oversight is tragic. Not The most publishposition, from theinfluence, retreat is but also extremely practical. only has it permitted valuable info.recent Todayauthor is the to power, I knew that I would be in When I was six years assignment lasted two weeks, Sara Khalil, was born andfame, left fortalent, New York last day inwho October andin Guyana notoriety, gift- Having a foundation of ethics vacation. the encroachment of an old I started school in Mesa, big trouble if I told my dad covering someone’s her teenage years. Ican had the to oratory, contribute the is central to the success and unhealthy atmosphere Iinbelieve this content ing,honour dynamic persuaDue to my work ethic and Arizona, so I began staying what had happened. It was a cover, aand it was a privilege the manuscript be- longevity desire make few people change to read siveness, intellectualfirst, superiof one’stoleadership. negative secret: the with attitudes my mom go the extra of mile, cause I assisted to publish book ‘InComplete.’ I did Many leadership course for the her better. I her ority, academic achievement, training and practices kind that could get me andamong her husband routineI landed another assignment not want to put it down because her story is so compiling. leaders, it has ly. It wasalso like going from into big trouble. I didn’t in the same department for but ledfor to destructive Sara has always felt that her life is a solidarity jourknowpersonally how much and trouble, heaven to conhell. It was a horror six months, then another be a success, ersbut who are currently pursusequences forthat’s individuals, ney to story yet to be professionally, writ- I wasn’taswilling three months, which finally ing a vocational calling and you carry and While nations.atChartake avision, chance. grandma’s I purpose, led to my permanent societies, posi- ten. desire to be the very best they out your and“Shhhh... acter is the most Don’t tell anyone.” with the love of in life. tion, allowing me to live a was filled powerful can be. You will learn how goals force a leader can cultivate Maybe it’s the trauma of a grandma and Jesus daily. dream. to establish yourself solidly The Power of Character because it protects leadermy experience, but for some the other hand, atin my Dr. Safeeya Mohamed – On Leadership is for… Leadship. It will enable youI to mother’s house, was filled reason I still cannot remem- SEE PAGE XXII Trinidad We received the updates with Rock ‘N Roll, drugs ber how often it happened, when that the accident was horrific and inappropriate, wild sex and that the victim was stuck parties. Ultimately, from it started, or even when it such an environment you can ended in the car. The vehicle had to be cut imagine the kinds of abuse Penny Phakahi –South open to get to the victim. It that mom’s house provided. never occurred to me that When I was 11 years old, Africa I have had my share of grandma Shirley died and my my brother could be remotely in- stepdad left. My mom had turmoil and I strongly believe volved. The next thing I an emotional breakdown, so that it is these stints of turremember, I was looking at I ran away! I couldn’t take moil that brought me this far in my life. I was any more. the body of my brother and in thatblood we areinalla ridingAndrea a train through I got and her permission share an excerpt with you and I perhaps is to still in my Edwards – born covered ourstrident, hours, days, and years. believe many women can relate to her journey. refinery process. in Guyana, living in Florida hearse. The agonisthoughtful andI sat revealing As a young girl, I grew As in the back Excerpt: of ing scream of In mythis mother in upleave with today; one main my dad’s Nissan Bluebird,“II will the A&E that story of her journey, readers will accomjustambition, help me pack my belongings.” wanting far through the windows early morning pany one ofhas thenot most peered courageous women His mother startedtotoget packaway, his clothing in a suitcase. thepacking. system ofI was so upset and lost that the images on - a escaped my almost 17 toatself-discovery on mind her expedition Mikeaway also from started or the box fence years later as she howled remarkable life story ofthe trials andoftri-the IGuystarted to thinking cry and begged himthat to stay. I was in a place we often findmyself ourselves ana Botanical Gardensofand “my son died, my umphs. confusion, I hated andin. I blamed myself. I felt I Apart from Iunderstanding Zoological Park.inThe wasn’t radio good son died, nobody’s helpHer book ‘Incomplete’ offers enough. threw myself on the floor, in a foetal always dared blasted popular ing us!” But nobody sights into could, Sara Khalil fromthe childhood position,myself cryingI out as loud astoI could, more so screaming. be was different, which wasIaloved him with all my song “1985” by as his spirit at the to departed adulthood. She livedcalypso her childhood My world upside down. constant sur- and hurt he caused a then-popular calypsonian. point of in Guyana then migrated to the USA heart; even withstruggle all the when infidelity rounded bytomyhold situations. I for the sake of my would have just to celebrated impact.with Up her to this day,SheIwas family. determined me, I still wanted on to him grewmy up child. under aIstrict my sixth I ponder where strength fight the against all odds, even after two family and never wanted to let him go, no Christian my birthday, on quite came from failed to navigate that Reflecting marriages. heroblivious matter what. He hadfamily madewith his decision and wouldn’t be andevening, step granny, to the but grandfather night. nomadic early years, we concept witnessofalltime, budged. At 6 pm that Mike left with his Mom. as my mother her mom song would not allow that she faced as shethat doggedly pursued Our six-year-old son,lost Jayden, started to run behind me to forget Shanon her Paar – Arizona SEE PAGE calling. his father, but Mike keptXXV walking; Jayden asked me, thatwarmth it was 1985. Sara shared with and “Mom, why daddy leaving again”? I didn’t have any honesty how she dealt with betrayal, answers at that time. I quickly tried to control myself forgiveness, and feelings of being and started engaging in other conversations with my unloved. son, thinking he would get distracted and forget. Guess This book is authentic, sassy, in- what? I was wrong. He kept crying and asking the same spiring, bold, and pragmatic, qualities question, over and over. Finally, after some time passed, quite similar to the author herself. he stopped crying and asking questions and started to She launched her book at Artfest be himself again. It was close to bedtime, so I bathed in Atlanta and will be launching in Jayden, took a shower and we were off to bed. The very New York later this month and Guyana in November. SEE PAGE XX
Sara’s incomplete journey
The power of character in leadership
XII
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
IS THERE A DECLINE OF MALENESS WITHIN TWO GENERATIONS? CONVERSATIONS with a generation-plus apartcan be revealing if levels of trust can be developed. Recently I had a chat with two groups of young women over two weeks after a quick exchange on an
out and expect her to pay the bill, expect her to pay the taxi and then in some cases, ask her for a loan. This is unbelievable. In flashback mode, there were always gigolos, but they were the difference, these were
After that the familiar warm family chat, which was in true context, cordial scrutiny and interrogation would commence, but there was honesty and chemistry at work here, until the friend with the taxi that was ar-
(This material and its origins are a mystery, spelt here as pronounced). However, she also broadcast her gifts to some older friends the youngster had, some of them water-front workmates who hung out at a beer garden
what has happened? Social change throughout human history is driven by cultural currents and values that evolve or retrogress social behaviour; we are no different. Two areas of development are obviously in the
private schools, became incubators for the children of the nouveau riche and the contemporary middle-money competing with them. Out of this a new female emerged. Not timid in a dangerous world without rules,
unbelievably current gender-interaction custom of practice, previously with a young lady whose mom I knew as a neighbour some years ago. True to fact, nothing is entirely new. Still, sometimes an overflow of certain behavioural patterns signals an imbalance of the current normal that can develop into a significant cultural change. This can lead, as in the context of this article, to more non-positive, gender-based issues if the usual indifference in attitude is continuously applied. They say that young men today practise the following: they would invite a young lady
not the normal crew. Men, whether stevedore, bankroll snatcher or engineer, subscribed to the custom that there were male responsibilities to courtship. In many cases, dinners with wine and gourmet meals at expensive restaurants were not the norms. Most of our population were not rich, but if you get the permission to visit the home, and it’s not a hide and seek, backstabbing ‘ting,’ then the shopping would be done. ‘Sweet and Sour’ ingredients, baked chicken with stuffing’s, etc. and depends, with homemade liquor or purchased wine, you visit the home for dinner made by the girlfriend, now lady.
ranged in the afternoon came. It depends on where you were living. No, in the 70s and even in the 80s every home in Georgetown did not have a telephone and the cellphone was still in the realm of the SCI-FI ‘Star Trek’ fantasy. Then, there were always the ‘Teaspoon Baba’ experience, that’s a younger man with an older lady. Here’s a true-to-life case example, between a 21-yearold ‘Banna’ (G/T colloquial for male) and a well-proportioned lady of around 30-something from Adelaide Street, Charlestown: she bought him a pair of CLARKE’S desert shoes and two Chambery shirts
on Durban Street opposite the prison, not far from our own Isaac Hayes look alike, a fore-runner in the scrapmetal business, the then famous ‘Daly-Malali.’ The youngster was subjected to some heavy tantalising, with embellishments of his acts of compromised male creed, he took it with good jest. Concealing his anger, he left for Ruimveldt and early the following morning with the gifts, knowing well that her inquisitive neighbours would be an uninvited audience, and with some drama returned the gifts. This is not an 18th century story, this story is less than 50 years ago, so
forefront of the social and cultural deterioration that have produced the issues of this discussion. Others have like opportunistic tentacles contributed. The infusion of drugs on a grand scale in Guyana have contributed to an imposition of a metamorphosis Jekyll-Hyde with the malignant aspect of the split nature in control. I witnessed it within my family, the promise of swift money at all costs, values and principles abandoned, the cheapening of lives, creeds and obvious logic aborted, leaving in the end, a vicious and bitter persona non grata, the remains of the day. The schools, especially some of the new
impressive male youth without means were purchased, thus began a trend, whose details this article cannot articulate as necessary; next would be the social media ego-rush of fanfaronade posts and selfies and an absence of real content that engaged the majority in competitive tirades. How the mentioned social phases impacted on our especially ‘youth culture’ has never been explored, nor have we erected the edutainment drama dialogue to counter the invasive, disfigured logic; thus, distorted ideals have with some success, inserted itself, unchallenged.
XIII
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
Why authentic packaging is important for business marketing in Guyana
I LEARNED the importance of authentic and memorable packaging very early in my entrepreneurship journey. The first impression of any encounter matters. The majority of the time when customers purchase from you, especially if you have an online business, your line of packaging is the first thing they interact with. As such, that “hook” or first impression is what will grab their attention even more, apart from the quality of your products. The main and initial purpose of packaging is to protect your products from damage, especially during shipping and transporting. With that in mind, the packaging is also used in business marketing and advertisements. It glamorises and accentuates the theme of one’s business or product and also helps to set a specific tone or mood for the customer when they open their package with your products. Consumers often purchase a product based on emotions or based on what your competitor lacks. As such, it is advised that businesses invest in packaging that evokes pos-
itive emotions, or that is unique from others on the existing market. This advice is especially important for those businesses who make or manufacture their own products. I must say that as I walk through the aisles of supermarkets in Guyana, it is getting more and more difficult to automatically differentiate between a foreign product and a local product through its packaging. I say
more emphasis on their marketing strategies and overall production of products. When we look at the coca-cola logo and the shape of the bottle, we don’t question the quality of the product because we know what this packaging is associated with. When we look at the new and improved Topco fruit juices from Demerara Distillers Ltd., we already know what kind of product to expect
Martpackaging- source: Marissa Foster. that with a smile on my face because it means that Guyanese businesses are placing
after seeing their line of packaging. Your package should be protective, yet attractive
and different. This is why marketing and packaging have always been hand in hand. These days, people are trying to see the beauty of life, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Aesthetics have become such an important aspect of social media, clothes, makeup and even packaging. This is how aesthetic-enthusiast companies such as Apple or Louis Vuitton make money off the feelings their product packaging evokes. You can go on YouTube or Tik Tok and check the many videos that involve “unboxing” of certain brands and you’ll see for yourself. It’s one of the cheapest ways of marketing—if you’re smart about it. It does not have to be expensive and it should be included in your overall cost
price, so you can reclaim your packaging cost after selling. You can do occasional themes (Christmas or Halloween), colour themes, or even the themes of your products. You can stick to specific fonts or graphics that will help to sell your ideas to your consumers and you can even ensure that your social media and contact information is displayed on your packaging. It is also important to note that there should be usefulness in your packaging. Can you think of what the pringles chip would come in, if it wasn’t for that cylinder jar? What else can keep those chips super fresh while not allowing them to break? Not only is it useful, but it is also memorable, just as the Coca Cola bottle as mentioned before—people
mentally associate it with a specific brand through its uniqueness. I understand that this may not apply to every business type, but if you’d like to sell an idea of a specific aesthetic or lifestyle to consumers, I highly advise utilising unique packaging for your products. I hope more and more Guyanese-owned businesses continue to grow and expand their marketing, it allows for global recognition and exportation as well. Simple things such as the incorrect use of label sizes, no protective seals on food items or a non-attractive logo can make you miss an opportunity for global or regional growth. I hope you all keep this in mind as you try to expand your business.
XIV
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 24, 2021
XII
XXXV
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
WHEN I CAN BE KISSED BY WHEN I CAN BE DAWN IV - CONCLUSION A HAND TO BY HOLD KISSED DAWN III CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, August 8, 2021
SHE hurriedly changed The child was running For tiredness lies her clothes, wrapped a high fever and Shamita On mya lids shawl over her head, checked the medication the My body likepartially a so it covered doctor prescribed, having Brokenher goblet face and opened the a little knowledge of medThe Earth doorcan to feel go with him to icine through networking No more feetIt was the first with medical friends. his my home. So I must home, dear she Lord,” was the hoarse time come since the attack “This should plea have lowthe lips the old this woman, lying recliner on the patio. hadof stood close toin aered the high temperature,” The middle-aged sitting close by reading the a strange nurse man.aid Aiden she said. spapertook inquired of the old woman, her hand, giving it “I don’t understand Whataislittle it, Sharda?” squeeze and that why she’s not feeling betShe did not answer, up atter,” the the clearfather blue said, sky, deep support alonglooking with her eyes not so dim, her hearing still fine. She could see deep concern for Aashi worry in his voice,the “I took ly flowers sweether songs of best the birds in madebloom her, and for hear thatthe moto the paediatrician garden, but her ment, not love thinkand toopassion much forinnature town.”were slowly ng away. of her fear. Shamita put a damp How does one continue to embrace life when the body become aged and feeble, memory sometimes floating into HER name became a urged have ingness, whennow you need a young, strongher hand“You to hold andto go intrusion of tragedy of a different nature leaving trails part of the home and home.” egreat was none? like scattered leaves of sadwhen they spoke of her, he The puppy lying comfortThe boyon took soupforehead but “My dad’s a nice guy, he “Yes?” How did this happen?” she asked herself, tears misting towel thethe child’s how theirdid eyes up. ably on the rug in front of the ness, fear and loneliness. hesitated for a moment then never hurt my mother.” “I’m sorry to disturb you ersaw eyes, “Why thislithappen?” and caressing her face gently, knewwork yet how children to provide care temperaand she had Sleepless walked away from her hard andmuch rich asked, lifestyles made them “She is nice,” Aashi, TVher paid no heed and Shamita “Why don’t you come again, that night so late, but Aashi’s The loneliness wassaid a deep ache in heart, craving for them,Neither she spoke to her softly, “Aasthey needed each other to companionship for they hardher matrimonial home with forget where they came from, sacrifices laying a foundation “She has pretty brown eyes.” picking her up gently, let her and see she sat up in bed writing in ture has risen again and she’s hildren she loved and missed so much just to hear their hi, her?” I’m here with you.” exile the fear and ly found any theirknow her four children into the was aged mother, for the successes theyloneliness had and for “Ithe “And shewere knows to bake out the adults door. She barked in can’t outmumbled looking her diary when there calling fortime you. Iindon’t es. But they gone, now matured pursuing The go child her and that love was dailywhat schedules to can spendyou with throesa of an unknown world. therelike wasthis” no time. achieved in their lives.waiting But on awesome cookies,” Aiden protest not run to she answered pullrapping at the door. The to do, come, ers and sharing their lives with new lovesand anddid interests. name weakly and Shamita a threshold. their mother. She had worked long A lone tear trickled down after reaching great heights added pausing littlealone beforein the thehome father, not until Shamita ing the hair overtalking the one The mother nowalived where they had continued toside her. sound startled her and for a please?” The mirror on their the wall That The nightquiver as sheinlaid every day build a her wrinkled face, a face still hoursmoment world, continuing, “Just likelife. mom.” stepped out the of her face. she to froze, wonderhisinvoice ed a beautiful family She had moulded anddoor. guided in the business “I miss you, your chatting bed, and she looked at the paintnice little home withbe comfort beautiful“My never mind her age The father froze in his He was standing patient- knew. dad can take you in ing who could at the door the tearful look on Aidand laughter, and remember Shamita drew the cur- his car,” he suggested. work and did not say any- ly at the gate and raised his then she heard the children’s en’s face touched her heart we were supposed to bake thing for a long moment, hand a little to say “Thank tains open halfway and light Achocolate glimmer of fearcookies.” flashed father’s voice. deeply and she said without chip such was the deep effect of you,” but she turned and streamed into the little coun- in her eyes theplayed childat the “Can I speak to you, hesitation, “Just give me a A tinyand smile his son’s words. Then he walked in the house. Some- try house, fresh air through asked, “Why arechild’s you so please?” moment.” corner of the mouth responded with the hint of a how she did not feel that the open windows seeming afraidand of him?” To be continued… opening her eyes she She wondered how he got smile, “That’s nice.” intense fear on seeing him to breathe new life into her. She not answer, not in, then remembered giving said,did “Yes.” He did not sleep well, and in her mind she could In the afternoon, the children sure what“Well to tellyou theknow child,you but have Aiden a key to the gate and Pic saved as fables capagain, that night, the chil- not deny his casual good stopped by Aashi bringing a he was a smart thethat.” opening the window she an- tion: Prasad photography to get wellkid for and us toatdo dren’s joy replaying in his looks that any woman would picture for her she had drawn door he said her, her little arm swered ih a concerned tone, She to lifted mind, knowing how much notice. She sighed deeply as in class. As the children to touch Shamita’s face and they missed having a mother. she stood in front the mirror enjoyed the special chicken muttered, “I will.” For the past three years since and pulled off the veil, letting dish she had prepared for Shamita turned to look at them, Shamita noticed the she was gone he had never it fall slowly to the floor. the father who was standing little girl’s paleness. thought of another wom“One day at a time…” by the door, tears in his eyes. “Are you feeling okay, an until now. Someone the That evening she called He walked to the child’s bedAashi?” children became attracted to, her younger sister, “Can you side and looking at Shamita The child shook her who in their little hearts was come when you have the who had turned and lowered head, “Not too good.” special. time? I need a hair cut.” her head, he said, “Now Shamita checked her “I wonder, though,” he She had her hair cut in a I understand, she doesn’t mused, “How can she em- different style so it partially temperature and the reading need medication, she needs brace them in her heart when hid the scars on her face, giv- showed above normal. you. Can you stay with her “I think you’re developshe is battling her own prob- ing her a new look. A change tonight, at least?” lems?” had begun much to her tear- ing a fever.” Shamita did not answer The child stretched her A few streets away, ful mother’s relief and, now, for a short moment then she Shamita laid in bed sleepless since that horrific attack, she arms out to Shamita, “Can I nodded her head. She could stay with you, please?” too, thinking of the children. saw her daughter smile. Her father, brother and not say no, not to a man who the room quietly. “Yes you can,” she said ing on thepuppy wall facing andthe room today, instead and she lifted a trembling for them andShamita She just couldn’t get their sad “Thank you, dear Lord,” cameherinto was awakened had lost his wife a few years hugging her, “But I think a smile touched her lips, lessof holding her hand, like hand to wipe it. A hand that faces out of her mind when she whispered, “For sending ago and whose children were by a soft touch on her face a little later and Aiden exeningtotheclaimed pain in her heart. “Aashi, heldsattheirs, they that held her she had and they mentioned the loss of two little angels in her life to your dad would need youwas once strong, joyfully, up, a bit abruptly, now his everything. home to take care of you.” children’s small ones every turned their was theyou’re picture of three backs, leaving inIt front their mother. help her heal.” okay!” see Aashi standing She did not sleep at all When the father came for children, her Crystal father working her alone. step of the way. “Such a great loss,” she The thoughts of the chilparked happithat night, closely attend- of her, her hair tussled from in the garden and her mother A choked sob escaped smile crossed thought, “Their father must dren’s father were no differ- them, she watched the chil- A wry ly and the father lifted his ing to the child and by two sleep. standing not far off with a tears of once again she said a faraway look her lips and “Hi,” have been…” ent, for since his children met dren go, concerned about theher face and in his arms, Shamita with daughter ’oclock in the morning her bucket ofrelief freshinvegetables timesmile, for me“How shone in her eyes as her whispered,a “It’s She turned her face in the Shamita, something changed little girl, sorry she couldn’t his eyes. relieved are temperature had dropped warmly home, dear Lord, on her arm, smiling thoughts took her back to a to come you?” pillow to shut out the thought for them. They were more have the child stay with her. “Do you know what a close to normal. Shamita Aiden stopped by in the as she watched her children. left here.” time when she was a young there’s nothing of him, but the children and cheerful, not because he “You came to see me,” scare you gave me?” sighed deeply with relief and A portrait“Sorry that captured The nurse aid got up and woman. She was so full of the puppy would bring the wasn’t a good father, but morning before he went to daddy,” Aashi said leaning back on a chair by the the child said, happiness in school to give her an update a simple life and beautiful took her hand, urging her life, like a butterfly with father close to her. because they missed the love sweetly, ahugging her father. her voice. bedside, she fell asleep. on,I was Sharda, amazing colours and a sim- gently, “Come One late morning, whilst and care of a mother. Sitting on Aashi. It was such a happy scene “Yes, worriedfamily. about She did not know when “Her fever got a little “You have left so long your meal and ple, little home filled with it’s time for the children were at school, alone on the upper veranthe father came into the room you and your dad was even and the father said to Shamhigher, so dad is taking her ago, mother,” she sure said Iinhave a enough medication.” love, then her father gave Crystal ran away from home dah, an empty chair next to ita, “Not to check on Aashi and he more worried.” weak voice, “I can’t rememShe sighed and looking her hand in marriage to a again and Shamita hearing him, he thought of the young to the doctor.” “I wanted to be with words to say thank you.” stood looking at Shamita for But two days passed and I have She inquired, ber much for rice farmer’s son; a new life up at the nurse. the barking opened the door woman, Shenow smiled just a little, a long moment. She had tak- you,” the child said, hugging grown too“It’s old.”okay, I’m happy for beare you?” as a bride and later, a young puzzled, “Who for her. During the lunch “She seems nice and kind the child still had not reher. en off the shawl, but her hair The brother sister “I’m Jeanette,” the wommother. Paths she had walked period, she heard a familiar but she lives with such fear, I covered from the fever deing able and to help Aashi.” “I’m here now,” Shamita partially covered the scars on spite the doctor’s treatment. playing with her had alsonow intropatiently, as she paved with love, compassion, an answered car at the gate and knew the can’t even talk to her.” “I guess I can said, smoothing the tussled her face. to her feet, “Your left, their names now written tears and pain, episodes of assisted her children’s father was looking But fate had designed Shamita made a healthy veg“Still pretty,” he said si- hair, touched by the child’s duce myself formally,” he etable soup for her and gave on tombstones whilst she, the nurse aid.” her life written on the leaves for the puppy. their lives to cross for their lently, a new, unique feeling affection, “No need to worry SEE stillPAGE alone. XXIII “Oh,” anymore.” she exclaimed soft- youngest, waited of time. “Come on Crystal,” she life stories were similar. The it to Aiden, “This should be rising in his heart and he left good for her.” “Whisper my name, Then one day, fourteen ly, a momentary lapse in her
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
World Cities Day
HELLO readers! In today’s article, we will be telling you about World Cities Day - an annual United Nations observance held on October 31. The global observance, first held in 2014, is organised by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in coordination with each year’s selected host city. Each year, one unifying theme is chosen; the general theme of World Cities Day “Better City, Better life”. This year’s sub-theme is Adapting Cities for Climate Resilience. Cities worldwide are increasingly suffering the effects of climate-related disasters, such as floods,
tainable urban development around the world. The main goals of World Cities Day 2021 are to: * Increase awareness on climate change adaptation and urban resilience; * Inspire effective climate action at the local level by sharing knowledge on effective urban systems resilience solutions; and * Contribute to implementation of the New Urban Agenda, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Paris Agreement for Climate Change to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Guyana, like many other countries, is vulnerable to
understand why we should join the fight, consider these sobering facts: * Global temperature has risen by 1.40F since 1880; * By 2025, rising temperatures will result in the amount of water available per person decreasing by 30 percent-70 percent in some areas, including the Caribbean region; * Carbon dioxide levels in the air are at their highest in 650,000 years; * Global average sea level has risen by more than seven inches over the past 100 years, more than double the amount of the last century; and * In South and Central
droughts, sea-level rise, heatwaves, landslides and storms. At least 130 port cities with over one million inhabitants are expected to be affected by coastal flooding and the one billion people in informal urban settlements are particularly at risk. World Cities Day aims to promote the international community’s interest in global sustainable urbanisation, push forward cooperation among countries and cities in meeting opportunities and to address challenges of urbanisation, and contribute to sus-
climate change and already experiences severe flooding and droughts. From shifting weather patterns that threaten food production to rising sea levels that increase the risk of catastrophic flooding, the impacts of climate change are global in scope and unprecedented in scale. Without drastic action today, adapting to these impacts in the future will be more difficult and costly. It is clear that to fight climate change, all must be united in their efforts, locally and globally. To better
America, more than 600 extreme weather events occurred between 2000-2013, affecting 52.6 million people, resulting in 13,500 deaths and economic losses of US$45.3 billion. These facts provide solid evidence that climate change is real and if we fail to adjust our actions, then our Earth’s climate will become dangerous for people. Therefore, climate change is an issue of urgency and hope. Every individual must take action and use their power to fight climate change. Simple ac-
tions can be taken to aid in addressing this issue. These include: * Mending and reusing clothes and other products to save money and reduce waste going to the landfill; * Replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models and light bulbs. * Saving electricity by plugging appliances into a power strip and turning them off completely when not in use; * Eating less meat, poultry, and fish and composting kitchen waste; * Planting trees; * Buying minimally
packaged goods; * Decreasing your personal carbon footprint by walking, cycling, and using public transportation whenever possible. Consider carpooling with friends, neighbours, and co-workers; * Taking the stairs instead of using the elevator. In addition to saving energy, taking the stairs gives you a mild workout which will help keep you healthy; and * Adopt energy-efficient technologies for your factories and industries. You can share your ideas and questions by sending
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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. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
The agricultural village of... FROM PAGE VI
shopping centre. Residents are self-sufficient and have their own vehicles while, others use the taxi services that are located on the main access road. There are houses in all sizes and shapes one side of Coglan Dam and the other side is mainly rice fields, privately-owned and the rest of the backlands are used for large scale rice farming by both villagers and others, who reside out of the village. Coglan Dam has one mandir and all other government services are ac-
cessed out of the village, at Vreed-en-Hoop and other neighbouring villages. This village is unique because it is strategically located and cushioned deep into the farmlands and has a good countryside setting. The village comes under the Best/Klein/Pouderoyen Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and managed by Chairman Umesh Balram. The Livestock Officer/ villager Meanwhile, Prakash Mahadeo, is the Livestock Officer for Vreed-en-Hoop to Stewartville and he is based at Den Amstel. He is also councillor and a resident of Coglan Dam and has been a Livestock Officer for the past 36 years and has a great love for animals. His joy comes from working with farmers and animals and likes to connect with people of all walks of life. Mahadeo told the Pepperpot Magazine that he came from humble beginnings and walked bare-feet with thick mud and water at Coglan Dam as a boy to get to school. He added that he used to get on the tractor to get out to the public road for school and attended Patentia Secondary School before going to the Guyana School of Agriculture and later upgrading his studies in Trinidad and Tobago. He used to live at Lot 161 his parents’ place and later when he got married and established himself after he acquired a plot of land and moved to Lot 163, where he is currently residing. However, in 2002 they benefitted from a paved road and other amenities that enhanced the locals’ lives. Mahadeo stated that the only issue is the rice farmers need to practice water conservation because they would release wastewater and it causes flooding when the koker is closed. He reported that Coglan Dam isn’t a place that is prone to flooding but the actions of the rice farmers causes flooding in the village within recent times.
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 28, 2021
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 03, 2021
How through a Miscarriage Howtotoget move forward with your partner after infidelity
ot always know what I’m looking losing your phone would be on a scale of 1-10. 98 percent phone is such a normal part of my said 10theand percent said allif you claimed that it would is completely your choice. anonymous prefer. There 9. are They TODAY I would like to can also happen later during overlooked during preg- 2 mother/parent. I think it requires menvarious reasons why a womdiscuss athat topic that many thecount pregnancy termtypi- nancy. This is rarely true. hand I cannot the numbe the worst material possession thatis emotional they discould tioningever that menlose. also do feel As there an would miscarry, which find uncomfortable and cally called a stillbirth. My Most miscarriages occur include chronic conditions tress, there may also be phys- this loss. However, I have despite how comresearch showed thatin the risk the foetuscontinued just isn’t d taboo, for it, while it was actually my becauseThey say thatdiabefeelings ofasanxiety, counselled manyand couples ical as well relationship irritation such to as uncontrolled mon it actually is. Many of miscarriage is 12 percent developing normally. Voluntarily put yourself on a short where leash. Do LAST week I up discussed how a miscarriage tes, hormonal abnormalities, distress. You will feel a wide through when I get in the morning and people don’t know how to 15 percent for women in Unfortunately, while overwhelming sadness would be felt if they were to lose their it for as long as it takes to regain the lost trust. to heal from infidelity. Now, uterine or cervical abnor- range of emotions which the expecting mother and to reach out or respond their 20s and rises to about a miscarriage is a relatively There should be no secrets, no passwords as many people stay in the refather’s relationship seemed are not limited to sadness, malities, infection, or age. oing to sleep is check my phone. I to someone who has been 25 percent for women over common experience — it phone today. well as new boundaries and ground rules. Howlationship after infidelity for 40. However, most of the time, hopelessness, anger, guilt, as though it was deteriorating through this trauma – and age make the situation thisand shouldasnot forever. many reasons; whether althy and something musta be done. doesn’t the be woman felt her partner of otherever, parents the fertilised egg has right? an ab- jealousy sometimes, that’s okay. it’s Having miscarriage any easier. ItIt is impossible seems harmless, Caring much about a her Ifso you are trying to save your relationship, love, security, fear or any didn’t care or understand intense feelings of loneliness normal number of chromoHowever, knowledge helps does not necessarily mean for anyone to understand the do not and seek It is very tempting other of the that million possibilindanyfound women were more grief.revenge. While expectant fathers (especiallyreally if there aretry a lot somes/ genes, and this is been situation and often this week I’ve paying attention that you have a fertility prob- pain ofphone? someone whoWell, has to react with anger, desperate or petty measures, ties, it is not a reason to judge very random. Unfortunately, of parents in your social cir- absolutely do feel this loss, take away discomfort. lem. Most women (87 per- been through an event that but doing this keeps your anger alive active o does their phones simply because men traumatic. nor project your own feelings the bond between a pregnant Please take my advice this meansthat that there was cle). to the importance I and others around me give to aand people A miscarriage is the loss cent) who have miscarriagFor couples who and instead now woman leaves TWO bitter, wrong on to the situation. Can you and the baby grow– allow yourself to feel and nothing done to have caused a pregnancy where the es have subsequent normal have recently been through trying toon workaround out relationship. alofembryo media apps. Also, older people overcome the obstacle is inga inside her is unique. A express these emotions. it,than and nothing can be done what’s actually going them. or foetus does notthatpregnancies and births. A this, it phone, is important torather know Seek professional this is an option, infidelity and still have a hapcan Ifbegin bonding The only thing I would womanhelp. to prevent it. Normal activdevelop enough to survive. miscarriage is a somewhat that 98 percent of the time, addicted. I believe this is because I strongly recommend it,people, as I don’t know py and healthy relationship? Our phones -whether we are speaking to other from the moment she has of say you are not allowed to ities such as work, exercise, It typically happens within loaded term — possibly sug- a miscarriage is not caused many couples who HEALTHILY recovered Absolutely. Will it bebut quickgesting or sex or minor injuries do not feel, is self-blame. It’s hard a positive pregnancy test.from first three months, that something was by any action taken by the ethesmartphones infidelity without seeking advice. using social media or playingnot togames --did somecan be addictive easy? No, but it can (My happen father actually Bonding forprofessional the father typifeel as if you cause a miscarriage. Chances area better and I’m about to tell you how. callywith doesa mediator start laterto– find after new you lose Now, since a miscar- thing wrong when relationship It’s also a as they alterriage our moods, trigger Firstly, you have caught they enjoyable startand to solutions. see the physical pregnancy.and However, guilttechniques is a trauma, it typicallybeliefs good, safe space to speak about it because if you your loved one – with full cerbrings forward the five stag- is a completely unhelpful symptoms or some men until colleagues and friends how bad and unenjoyable feelings. Apart from obviously being have decided you need to letmy itYou go when tainty – that he/she was having the baby is born. can it’s emotion when there is noth- to stay, es of griefdenial, anger, not necessary. For example, if you are in couples an affair. What I discussed last help your relationship to main source of communication, my phone is my newspatherapy and talk about it then, that’s appropriate. week is still vital for personal survive by being understandIf you bring it up and punish your One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen is couples growth, but today we are foing, respectful and partner sensitiveevery per, watch, alarm, map, recorder, day planner, calendar, time you are angry, you maytoaseach well leave theneeds relationship to get back to “the way they were.” This situation cusing on the relationship itself. For forgiveness and growth, trying other’s and as that isn’t fair or healthy for either of you. and trauma have changed your relationshipthere is no there must be acknowledgement, remorse, and a want to feelings, keeping the lines of camera, music player, calculator,Theatruthweapon (sometimes) is that marriagecommunication does change after infidelity change in order never to repeat. If your partner is not show- way around that. So, you must work on rebuilding this new open about but and time, it will getare better. This will involve quite a few things. Start by with mutual effort, the right support ing this, this column may not be for you. Some questions to relationship. the situationonce you and my friend when I’m bored or lonelybasically evJust remember time heals nothing, but it is what you do working on a basic friendship. Couples get complacent and ask yourself– Did they acknowledge what they did? Do they both comfortable doing that,with the time that matters. their partner won’t leave and they sometimes forget care that they have hurt you? Do they even understand that think and accept each other’s erything. However, it is also my constant interrupter andcopthey did? Do they regret their actions? Are they changing the relationship was built on a friendship that made you ing mechanisms as they may Thanks for reaching out be andquite please continue to send sugin love in the first place. In the beginning much of healing like their behaviours to rebuild your trust? Are they doing the fall different. distractor. I (I imagine most of you out there) gestions topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com and forgiveness, it will involve full transparency. It may best they can? If you have suffered a intrusive, but that’sdesire the price ofto having an affair.everything that miscarriage To move on, you must discuss what happened- many think sound have a deep know is going on.trying and are it is better to forget it happened and move on, but it’s not. to conceive again or already This true trust and forgiveness can only happen with honesty I believe that is human nature. But when does it become pregnant, unfortunately there and knowledge. Your relationship should now consist of bargaining, depression, and ing you could have done to is nothing absolute that you too much? acceptance. Regarding grief, change the outcome of your can do to ensure there is no open and honest communication. People are often afraid to tell their partners about people or situations because they are there is no right or wrong pregnancy. When something miscarriage but like anything Well, I believe it’s too when it stretch has aelse,name. afraid that they will become upset. They fail to realise that there are ‘Noactions you we all way to experience it. Theremuch is goes wrong, if their partner finds out another way, the anger will be more also no appropriate timeline to find someone, something can take to make the possibilmophobia’ is that themustterm coined describe the fear of being intense, and most importantly, trust will be broken. To those ity less likely. This includes blame. With miscarriagbe followed - you toto of you who do that, I say – be careful of “solutions” that cause will simply recover when es, there’s rarely anyone or seeking regular prenatal care, without a mobile phone. Seriously, what have we come to? additional problems. you do. However, there are thing to blame, and it leaves taking the appropriate vitaOpen and honest conversation will consist of topics such mins, to avoiding known misfeeling object empty. So, accepthat can be done that us the It becomes anthings addiction when begins control as what was your relationship like before the infidelity took would help through this dif- tance of the normalcy of this carriage risk factors — such place? Was there a genuine reason for the transgression? Were as smoking, drinking alcohol tragic event is key.activities, ficult process. your life and interferes with your daily work, and you unhappy before? Did you have proper communication? Also, do what makes and illicit drug use. RememThe first to realise is that Did you spend enough quality time together? Were both of ber than obstacle you CAN have a good -“The despite what not alone – finding you feel relationships. you I are read somewhere that biggest your emotional or physical needs met? This means that you and accepting healthy sup- others think. Many people successful pregnancy after will both have to take responsibility. I know for someone who miscarriage. Most women unwarranted opin- acan port is is crucial during this have sobut to productivity connectivity,” overuse affect a has been cheated on, taking responsibility for what has haptime. This can be friends, ions and criticisms when who have miscarriages have pened will probably feel like an insult to your innocence. But subsequent of normal have never been through someone whom they lot more than family, our orproductivity. The truth is, overuse ourpregrefusing to recognise that you will both need to work through you know has also experi- such trauma. Many believe nancies and births. Having this equally for things to improve, is only making your own phones can harm psychologically, socially physically. a miscarriage does not necshouldn’t beand enced us a miscarriage. This that such grief life more difficult in the long term. Both partners need to can and should also include experienced if the miscar- essarily mean you have a With regard to affecting social how many of us address these underlying issues. There are many reasons fertility problem. occurredskills, early during professional help fromour a riage why people have affairs- they could be hurt, feel neglected, My final piece of advice counsellor, social worker, the pregnancy (even though miss out on a psychologist, joke orreligious goodlead-conversation as we were onisour bored, sexual dissatisfaction, disinterested in their partner or either parent to respect most do), but that woman or for they can frankly just be a bad human being who cares only er, or anyone who makes you couple may have been plan- your own needs and limitaphones? How feel many times we annoyed ourtions good for themselves. It is helpful – for both your forgiveness and as you friend work through a pregnancy for years or comfortable. Therehave are ning healing to understand their “why.” I don’t think people ever also online support groups just felt a great rush of love your grief and begin to heal. or family member because we and were posting social truly move on without a valid reason from their partner about rush it,media acceptance will excitement and that on is Don’t that are free and include peowhy they felt the urge or need to stray outside the relationship. come. difficult to just simply forget ple from all over the world. how much funYouwe are having with them? It truly Thank affects our Also, with that said, there needs to be a mutual want to you everyone can literally google and move on from. fix the relationship. No one can force someone to be with them. Well, you can try, but you won’t get that person’s full investment into the relationship.
“online support groups for miscarriages” and thousands of options will pop up. This way, you can also remain
If you’d like to name your baby, plant a tree for them, have a funeral, talk about it or not talk about it- it
for reading. Please include sending topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
The power of character ... FROM PAGE XI
as a leader and reach your goals as you cultivate enduring influence. Those who are emerging leaders or who aspire to lead. You will discover how ethics and values free you to carry out your singular purpose in life. Leaders who have failed—perhaps in a major way—due to a character flaw of some kind. You are probably asking yourself, “How did I get to this place? What do I do now? Do I still have a future as a leader?” You will see how to rebuild the foundation of your life. Ethically, you may be on shaky ground right now, but you can begin the process of developing a renewed mindset and a solid code of ethics that will lead to sound moral character. If you’ve fallen, this book explains how to “fall up” by making changes that will transform you from the inside out. Anyone who is concerned about the lack of moral force in leadership today. Having leaders of character on the local, national, and global levels is the key to solving a myriad of problems in our world. This book reveals a process for rebuilding our leaders so they can tackle the issues of our day. People who don’t yet understand that they are leaders. If you believe that leadership is for only a select few, you have accepted a false idea about leaders. Every person on earth is a leader in a particular area of gifting—and character development provides the foundation for discovering how you were born to lead. In relation to the last point, the focus of my leadership training has always been the transformation of followers into leaders and leaders into agents of change. There are millions of people who have tremendous potential for leadership, but no one has ever encouraged them to express it and develop it. In fact, many people are being told that they are “nothing.” Eventually, they believe it, so they do not fulfill their purpose in life. If that has been your perspective, this book will help you to understand what it means to be a genuine leader and how to develop your leadership potential. Regardless of your background, I invite you to discover the remarkable power of character in leadership—and how values, morals, ethics, and principles affect both the development and the outcome of your personal leadership success. Excerpt from the introduction. Contemporary Leadership and the Crisis of Character “Whatever failures I have known, whatever errors I have committed, whatever follies I have witnessed in public and private life have been the consequences of action without thought.” —Bernard Baruch, businessman and advisor to U.S. presidents In the dynamic drama of contemporary leadership playing on the world stage today, there are many “characters” who lack character. Moreover, the trail of history is littered with many would-be great men and women who harnessed the reins of power in various fields—political, social, economic, corporate, athletic, spiritual, and more. They wielded great influence and/or control over the lives of others; many felt the weight of material wealth and fame—only to have it all disintegrate and blow away like dust in the wind because of their tragic deficiencies of character. A lack of strong leadership has made a mess of our world. Every country on earth is challenged by an absence of resolute leadership as it struggles under precarious times. Politically, economically, and socially, our nations are experiencing turmoil and moral decay—characterized by crime, religious conflicts, economic uncertainty, the unequal distribution of resources, political corruption, civil unrest, the disintegration of the family, cybercrime, poverty, disease, famine, sexual abuse, greed, racial clashes, ethnic “cleansing,” global terrorism, and war. Our twenty-first-century world seems to be an experiment in global self-destruction. We need strong leaders who have the courage to grapple with perplexing issues and seemingly overwhelming problems, as well as the ability to discover and implement workable solutions. More than anything else, what we require today are competent, effective, visionary leaders in all walks of life. I encourage you to buy a copy of this book for someone who will benefit from this content because many around the world have. Send me your feedback to beyondtherunway1@gmail.com as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey BEYOND THE RUNWAY.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, October 31, 2021
A final fight to stay alive?
THE 26th United Nations (UN) Conference of Parties (CoP) gets underway from today. For some, this gathering of world leaders, scientists, activists, and business people is nothing more than a glorified ‘talk shop.’ For others, this event could very well be the last chance to ensure that global action is taken to mitigate the harmful effects of climate change and sustain life on planet earth. Despite your position on the spectrum of optimism for life-sustaining commitments and action, it is clear that CoP26 will be the most anticipated climate summit in years. This year, the conference’s focus will be on getting countries to cut their greenhouse gas emissions so that the global temperature could increase by only about 1.5 degrees Celsius of the pre-industrial level. It builds on the 2015 Paris Agreement, whereby 197 nations agreed to limit global warming to “well below” two degrees Celsius, below the pre-industrial level. To tangibly limit this global warming, the na-
tions crafted commitments known as their “nationally determined contributions (NDCs).” These contributions are the actions that governments said their countries would take to mitigate global warming; these include reducing emissions by using fewer fossil fuels (like petroleum, for example) and using more renewable energy (such as solar power). In some cases, countries are attempting to offset their emissions by funding conservation efforts in other countries. To break this down a bit simpler, trees breathe in the carbon dioxide (a gas) that humans breathe out; this carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere when trees are cut down or when fuels are burnt. When this gas (called a greenhouse gas) is released (or emitted) into the atmosphere, it contributes to making the earth hotter (through a process called global warming). And, scientists say that this global warming will make the planet increasingly unlivable, resulting in worse natural disasters (including floods, hurri-
canes, and heatwaves) and changing food-production possibilities. But here’s where things get a little complicated. It should seem like a no-brainer that countries would engage in the necessary steps to ensure that planet earth does not heat up to a point where living becomes difficult. Guess what? It, apparently, is not. Leaked documents seen by the BBC show that some countries are advocating for a slowdown in the departure from the use of fossil fuels. Previously, it was agreed that developed countries (that have benefitted from decades of fossil fuel use resulting in massive emissions) would provide $100 billion in climate finance for developing countries, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as Guyana and countries in the Caribbean.
WHEN I CAN BE KISSED ... FROM PAGE XIV said with a pleasant smile, “I’m Rajiv.” She nodded with a little smile, not looking directly at him, “And I’m Shamita.” The children were very pleased that they were talking to each other and Aashi wanted Shamita to stay, but Rajiv told the child, “Your angel hardly slept last night, she needs some rest and she’ll come back later.” Rajiv came for her late in the afternoon and she spent time with the child until it was bedtime. As she kissed her ‘good night,’ the child asked, “Can you stay with me?” Shamita thought for a moment before answering and smiling warmly, she said, “I’m not sure about that now but I’ll always come to see you.” “You’ll like my daddy,” she said with an adorable smile, “He’s handsome with
great hair.” Shamita couldn’t help laughing a little and assured Aashi, “I can see that.” Aashi recovered to full health and looked forward eagerly to Shamita’s visits, while Crystal continued to run away during the day to her home. “My kids and the puppy have gotten very attracted to you,” Rajiv told her one night as he took her home. She did not answer, knowing in her heart she felt the same for them, but for him? She was not sure of that answer, though she felt the glow of a new feeling within her. The shadows were fading. One day at a time… One night when he was saying good night, the shawl slipped from her head and before she could readjust it he said, “You don’t need to wear that anymore because the scars I cannot see, I can
only see the beauty.” For the first time she looked him in the eyes, unafraid now and saw what she had been feeling. Is this love? She inhaled deeply, said a quiet ‘good night’ and closed the door behind her, leaning against it, breathing slowly. Is this what she had waited for? Is this the change she wanted so she could bravely face the world again? The next morning as the first rays of golden sunlight lit up the room, she stood in front of the mirror, her mind somehow refreshed, a beautiful smile on her face and she asked, “Mirror mirror, What do you see?” “I see a girl who has found something new and special that freed her from the fears, free now to live her life.” She turned to face the sunlight, a glow on her face, kissed now by the dawn of a new day.
This financial support was meant to help the developing countries achieve emission-reduction targets. But, that sum was not accumulated annually and some of the developed countries have argued against providing this financial support. Emphasising the need for key commitments, including financial support, was our President Dr. Irfaan Ali. “Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and low-lying coastal states remain the most vulnerable group of countries due to their smallness, limited resources, exposure to external economic shocks, ecological fragility and their susceptibility to natural hazards,” the President underscored at a recent Alliance of Small Island States (AoSIS) Leaders’ Summit. As such, he urged the larger countries and international bodies to facilitate access to concessional financ-
ing and increase financing for disaster risk reduction, and reducing countries’ exposure to hazards and vulnerabilities to disasters. Months before the beginning of Guyana’s new relationship with the oil and gas sector, Guyana stated that “with adequate and timely financial support,” the country would be able to develop a 100 per cent renewable power supply by 2025. To be transparent in this column, I will relate that this figure has been revised to a shift to 70 per cent renewable energy by 2030. The country’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has argued that Guyana has spent years being a net carbon sink for the world (that is, it was trapping more gas emissions that it was emitting because of its large intact forests) and the country now can advance its economy and pursue a low-carbon developmental
trajectory. Around the world, eyes are on the much larger economies (and emitters) to commit towards reducing their emissions and helping to mitigate climate change. While Guyana has its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) to argue that oil can be produced to fuel low-carbon development, I do not know what plans those other countries will proffer. However, because I believe in science, I am sure that CoP26, the decisions made there and the commitments given will either be a watershed moment for climate mitigation or a disappointment. Either Way, the next two weeks will be interesting. If you would like to connect with me to discuss COVID-19, this column, or any of my previous works, feel free to email me at vish14ragobeer@gmail.com
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ―― Sunday, 28, 2021 CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT Sunday, October CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday,February January31, 10,2021 2021
THE SEAWALLS DIWALI SHUBH! HAPPY DIWALI! FOREVER!
REVISITING THE GUYANA/ VENEZUELA CONTROVERSY SOON TO COME BEFORE THE ICJ
E Guyana/Venezuela controversy will again shortly and discussions where factual bases invariably become me up before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). blurred. Guyana, most oflie thedeep writings the controversy have In thisisoffering, we will depart this with normseashells and try to THE Seawalls in theon consciousness of Guyanese today rather muddy was oncefrom covered and the 13th day of the Hindu month of Kartik, the fes- kill him. With the assumption of immortality, he became npeople, of aON historical and factual nature and this is has a good answer two questions that many have been asking since theup but especially Georgetowners. Yet it rarely there would always be children exploring and picking tival of Diwali or Deepavali is celebrated. In the West, a terror to the world, killing and destroying, and even ng, since the public are not encouraged seizure of theoftwo Guyanese fishing boats inthey Guyana’s terribeen noticed by media andin the last time it was seashells different colours; sometimes may find large where weGuyanese usethe thenews solar calendar contrast to the lunar attacked the deotas (gods). Eventually, Lord Vishnu had mentioned as an item of national concern was five or six conch shells. move their attention into the realms of arguments torial waters by a Venezuelan navy ship. The first question Hindu calendar, Diwali is celebrated on a date that falls to intervene and he had Naraksura’s mother reincarnatyearsbetween ago when the Ocean overtopped the wall or continental shelf gradually andknow falls October and November. This year,and it isflooded celebrat- edThe as foreshore Satyabhama. In her incarnation, she rises did not the yards parallel to 4. the Public Road. This was the first every 20 years andher today, land between Camp ed on November Naraksura was son the andforeshore he was unaware that she was time in Diwali living memory thatancient there was suchcelebrated an occurrence and the Pegasus has almost risen her to the heightshe of is the most festival in Guy- Street his mother. When Hotel Naraksura attacked family, lie in theThe distant past of 5000 to 6000conyears theshot an arrow killed him. People and ana. it ledItstoorigins great panic. authorities hurriedly wallhim andwith coconut trees which and other vegetation groweveryon it. ago and over the of millennia many new traditions and new where rejoiced at Naraksura’s death and celebrated with structed a barrier standing concrete have to become attached to it. In Guyana, there are illumination of their houses and villages and feasting and slabsmeanings on the Walls counter such overtoptraditions origins which we associate exchanging gifts. These celebrations continued and are ping.predominantly In the last three few weeks, theorSeawalls with it. encapsulated in Diwali. have again featured in the news, but in a The first is that it is the anniversary of the slaying of Another strong tradition in Guyana is that Lakshmi who happier vein. the terrible demon Naraksura. Naraksura did penance brings wisdom, wealth and prosperity on Diwali day, would From Camp Street to the Demerara River, of the severest kind (tapasya) and won the notice of Lord visit homes that are clean, well lit and bright and people who the wall had disfigured byboon an accuBrahma, become who offered him any he desired. He asked worship her and generously give to others food and necessimulation of unsightly garbage and no one to be immortal, but Lord Brahma told him that, that ties would be blessed by her and be prosperous, happy and assumed of cleaning A born will have to wise in the ensuing year. On Diwali day, people prepare to wish the wasresponsibility impossible, since all who it. were homeless man, Carl Melville, whohis sometimes die. He, therefore, changed wish that only his mother welcome Lakshmi and there is much feasting and the homes sleptshould there was noticedThe by wish Dwayne kill him. was Hackett granted and Naraksura and streets are illuminated and fireworks and crackers are felttothat hethe wasgarbage immortal his mother would never part of the fun. trying clean and since immediately volunteered to help him. Hackett placed the incident on social media and immediately numbers of persons volunteered their services. First Lady Arya Ali was one of the first to volunteer and the Ministry of Public Works, the Director of Solid Waste Department of the Georgetown City Council and the Fire Service became involved with her. The Fire Service cleaned the bandstand and in a few days all the garbage was removed and Seawalls appeared as if they had always been maintained! Many have been high in their praises of this example of civic responsibility. Likewise, the sea has reclaimed the land along the Kitty SeaThe Seawalls had always been the promenade and park for wall where houses once stood. Indeed, a substantial building the people of Georgetown and the surrounding villages from is still standing close to the wall near the Kitty Pump Station, the last quarter of the 19th century and continued to be so until but the sea is under it. Old fishermen who set their nets on the 1960s when the country became plagued with political ten- the foreshore sea could vividly describe the cyclical rise and sion and there were robberies on the Seawalls. For most of the fall of the beach. 1960s, therefore, fewer and fewer people visited the Seawalls. The Seawalls provided a favourite place for health enIn its heyday, the Seawalls were the most delightful place thusiasts. Many would go there to practise deep breathing of in Georgetown. The vast openness of the seascape and the the clean and fresh sea breezes. Others would be cycling or surrounding landscape, the blue skies and silver clouds, the even training for cycle races. Probably the most notable were ever-present seagulls and the steady flow of the health-giving the ones who went for physical culture. Many of this group trade winds and the enveloping peace and quietude attracted would go to the Seawalls by either jogging to get there or by hundreds of people at all times of the day. The beach which cycle and they would arrive there at 5 o’clock, long before
Research work helping curb... From Page III
timate for that area and in the space of 18 months, some 33 Giant Anteaters were identified. According to Millar, researching the animals included going out on horseback and following them from a distance to be able to stock up on more scientific information. One of the things they discovered is that the animals love to climb trees. “Everyone across the Rupununi assumed it was jaguars when they saw huge
zone in the village. “So we will work with the villagers to create certain rules and help them to know what they should and should not do. For example, no one is allowed to kill them, keep them as a pet, destroy their habitat, and light a fire in certain places, so that we can further protect the population.” The SRCS has been granted two years of additional funding from the Small Grants Programme Guyana to expand the project to three
several short documentaries called the “Secret Life of Giant Anteaters” and each episode focuses on different aspects of the work being done. Two more episodes are expected to be released this month. The team also does a lot of awareness work, including environmental education. They have another project for which they have designed an environmental education curriculum that has so far been implemented in four schools
the sun had risen. is, why is the Venezuelan public sowere convinced they On moonlit nights the Seawalls always athat crowded have a valid claim to two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and promenade. Many went to socialise with friends, but all went why their politicians are so bellicose and aggressive about to enjoy the beauty of the moon rising from the sea and the this claim? moonlight And the second is, why did there President blue-green whichquestion was brighter, since were Maduro Venezuela this time seizethe thevarious boats no road of lights to dilutechoose it. Others wouldtoenjoy when he would the Guyanese phasesheofknew the New Moon alienate with the background of population purple skies and cause embellished the international community to condemn or with thousands of stars which appear disapprove brighter of his action, Venezuela intersince leaving there were no cityisolated lights. Others nationally on the issue. would go to the Seawalls in the late afternoons to The answer to the sunsets first question began during theinto Cold admire gradually transforming the light ofof dusk. War: At theblue beginning the 1960s Britain had decided to joysthe of colony the Seawalls were the withdraw fromAnother Guyana of andthe grant independence, early evening Sunday concerts given by the Militia but it was very likely that the Prime Minister of the newly Band and the Police Band at the Bandstand which independent state would be Dr Cheddi Jagan, an avowed attracted hundreds of people. Their repertoire conMarxist. U.S. Cold War interests tried to persuade Britain sisted of light classical music such as Strauss’ and to delay Guyana’s independence, but all that Britain could other waltzes, ballet music such Delibes’ pizzicato promise was that she would hand over power to a non-ComandMinister. Sylvia, atAmerican least one English patriotic such munist Prime Intelligence feltsong that this as “This royal throne of Kings” and Guyanese and British offer needed further insurance and so they devised Caribbean folk songs. The concerts were arranged a plan whereby their client Venezuela would threaten to for early evening so that children could attend; many Guyanese in later life have admitted that their first exposure to classical music was from these Bandstand concerts. On Easter Monday thousands of kite-flyers turned out from five o’clock in the morning. Kites were all hand-made and were in a variety of shapes such as boxes, birds and snakes, but the predomThe third and most important tradition in Guyana is Diinant shape was the Guyanese octagon and in a wali as a celebration of Lord Rama’s return from his 14-year variety of colours. Singing a kite exile in the forests. Lord Rama was a engines, perfect ruler andwhich the made a loud droning sound, was one of the most subjects of his kingdom, Ayodha, were the happiest popular. people Kite-flying combined with picnicking. The Easter on Earth. was Thealways story of the sufferings of Lord Rama, the kite-flying a pale the heyday. kidnappingtoday of hisiswife Sitareminiscence by the DemonofKing of Lanka and mentioned above, the to political tensions and hisAs great valour in fighting recover her, and thecriminality story of why people he was away exiledfrom are well to realise kept the known. Seawalls People in the came 1960s. By the invade Guyana if incarnate theremore wasand anythey possibility of aillumined Marxist that helife was 1990s hadGod become stable andcleaned peopleand again began to government inwith Guyana. their homes, lined installed the streets small lamps (diyas), feastfrequent the being Seawalls, but the ambience had changed. There The 1899 Arbitral Award had settled the boundaries of ed and gave gifts to all and welcomed Lord Rama grew up stalls lining the parapet of the Public Roadwith fromjoy the Guyana and Venezuela and these boundaries were fully and reverence. And Diwali continued to be celebrated with Kitty Pump Station to the Pegasus, selling refreshments and theofsame spirit the millennia. accepted by bothover parties and the communiall these stalls were well-lit. TheInternational character of the Seawalls Whatever may be the tradition that explainsVenezuela Diwali, they ty. One of the junior lawyers representing at had changed from a peaceful promenade to a lively fair. reiterate thatMalletGood will triumphleft over Evil, that Hope will theallarbitration, Prevost, a letter that was not Now overcome that the tourism industry isthat being revived,and the always hopelessness, anddeath. theInwicked toSeawalls have been opened until after his that letter, still offer an attractive attraction. arrogant will always be eventually eliminated, no matter hehow claimed that the Arbitral Award was the result of an powerful they might be. arrangement between Britain anddishes the Russian arbitrator At Diwali time, vegetarian are cooked in all tohomes depriveand Venezuela of its rights. After more than half a sweetmeats of various kinds, many of which century, posthumous are not Venezuela, seen at otherbased timeson ofMallet-Prevost’s the year, make their welcome letter, now rejected the Arbitral and are claimed twoappearance. In addition to diyas,Award fairy lights now widely used in illuminating homes and even nearbyposthumous trees. One thirds of Guyana’s territory. Mallet-Prevost’s of the most creative used Diwali is the letter was theartistic caususand Venezuela to decorations threaten Guyana rangoli. The rangoli is created by several persons making a and this continued after the Cold War, the raison d’etre for circular design on the ground with rice coloured in various the claim, had ended. colours. University of Guyana students have earned themMost lawyers and historians who took any notice selves the reputation of creating rangolis which are unique ofandMallet-Prevost’s letter dismissed as ailluminated historical beautiful. The Diwali motorcadesitwith curiosity veryattractively flimsy evidence on young which people to attempt to vehiclesorwith costumed acting upset a long-accepted Arbitral Award.music But the Venezuelan out Diwali scenes with continuous attract tens of politicians the Venezuelan public credence and thousands and of viewers of every race and gave religion. Diwali became a public holiday only after independence importance to Mallet-Prevost’s posthumous letter, which in the have 1960s. Before that, likeinallthe Hindu and Muslim would been dismissed modern world. holy But days, its celebration was confined to the Indian the Venezuelan politicians and public still livecommunity. in the 19th When Napoleonic these holidays became public holidays, it helped to century world where territorial conquests were make Guyana a more integrated and unified country, since regarded as acceptable and even heroic. In today’s world, knowledge of Indian culture came to be available to all segthis 19th-century ethic hasand been completely ments of the population it also led to therejected. participation The Guyana/Venezuela controversy been anDiwali albaof people of every background in Indianhas festivals. tross around the necks of Venezuelan politicians, since they has certainly enriched Guyanese life and culture. use it on each other and their public has them imprisoned by it.Shubh Diwali! Happy Diwali! The Venezuelan seizure of the two Guyanese fishing
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Life in Coglan Dam ... FROM PAGE VIII and also worked with other rice farmers. Pensioner Further down the road is the home of 70-year-old Gangadai Gaijandai, a local who spent all her life in Coglan Dam. The mother of four told the Pepperpot Magazine that these days she is taking things easy because of her health. She fell and broke her hip and was bed-ridden for three months and during that time, her neighbours assisted her greatly, and she is very thankful for that. “I slipped and fell in the yard and got injured and was laid up for some time before I was able to walk again and it has been a painful experience but here I am trying to be normal and do things,” she said. She is better known as ‘Aunty Golin’ at Coglan Dam and has a son who resides with her to ensure she is doing well since she has difficulties climbing the stairs and walking. Aunty Golin stated that she sued to work at Beesons Garment Factory for many years and she retired and used to plant greens and walk and sell. She too, has chronic arthritis and is always in constant pains so she had to quit working. “Life is how you make it and it is either hard or easy and you cannot have $20 and want to live a $100 life, it will not work and living within your means is the best solution,” she said. Her son is planting some crops of ochro, bora, calaloo, peppers and they would set the seine in the canal to catch fish to make a meal and use the greens also. “If you have yard space plant because you can use the greens in the kitchen and that will save you from having to buy since everything, including groceries, is on the rise,” she said. Aunty Golin told the Pepperpot Magazine that country life is simple but entails hard work and requires doing many things to earn and put food on the table.
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October 31, 2021 THOUGHT FOR TODAY Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, le ave behind us Footprints on the sands of time. HENRY WADSW O LOW (1807-1882 RTH LONGFEL) A Psalm of Life
STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome, dear friend. The teaching you receive in class and your practice to make study perfect are both important. Watch, how eventually, your disciplined learning becomes exciting. Study every day and keep all areas of learning fresh in your mind. Read, watch, and listen to improve your written and verbal compre-
hension kills. Keep pen and paper handy to scribble ideas and words for composition. The more you write, the more your reading and comprehension skills improve. Be good. Love you. READING Comprehending the written word Instructions: Read the following short passage carefully. Select the correct option in each of items 1 and 2 based on what is stated or implied. The depths of the ocean are as secret, unexplored, and challenging as the vast distances of outer space. The surface of the moon is far better known than the floor of the Atlantic. But here, again, man is catching up with his mysterious inheritance. The voyage of “Nautilus” in 1959 was, perhaps, only a first elementary voyage of discovery into the deep vastness of the oceans of the world. The science of oceanography already foresees the day when we may travel as easily below, as on the surface of the water; and it is not too fantastic to suppose that the aeroplane may eventually be superseded by the submarine liner as the safest form of world travel. The writer refers to the ocean as “mysterious” because (A) it contains many varied and beautiful creatures. (B) modern scientists, historians, poets, and geologists are fascinated by it. (C) man does not know the much about the great secrets which lie within it. (D) man has not been fully motivated to explore its secret depths. 2. The reference to the voyage of “Nautilus” is meant to (A) describe a great undersea voyage. (B) lead up to the quests of undersea exploration. (C) indicate the limitation of exploring undersea. (D) inform readers that great discoveries have been made. THE PASSAGE Gradually fragments of speech floated to the surface, “‘April Showers?’ Mrs. Kyd’s new serial? Your manuscript, you say? You have a letter from me? The
name, please? Evidently some unfortunate misunderstanding. One moment.” And then a bell ringing. A zoological specimen ordered to unlock a safe, her name asked for again, the manuscript, her own precious manuscript, tied with Aunt Julia’s ribbon, laid on the table before her, and her outcries, her protests, her interrogations, drowned in a flood of bland apology: “An unfortunate accident – Mrs. Kyd’s manuscript received the same day – extraordinary coincidence in the choice of a title – duplicate answers sent by mistake – Miss Dace’s novel hardly suited to their purpose – should of course have been returned – regrettable oversight – accidents would happen – sure she understood.” The voice went on, like the steady pressure of a surgeon’s hand on a shrieking nerve. When it stopped she was in the street. A cab nearly ran her down, and a car bell jangled furiously in her ears. She clutched her manuscript, carrying it tenderly through the crowd, like a live thing that had been hurt. She could not bear to look at its soiled edges and the ink stain on Aunt Julia’s ribbon. (Edith Wharton’s “April Showers”) About the Passage Young Theodora had dreams of seeing her name and her work on print, but during that early time in history there was little opportunity for women who harboured such dreams. Women in the 1800s were merely expected to tend to the home. Something to Do 1. How do you interpret the following pieces from the passage? fragments of speech floated to the surface, evidently some unfortunate misunderstanding, her own precious manuscript, a flood of bland apology, like a live thing that had been hurt, a shrieking nerve. 2. The writer says, “(Her manuscript) laid on the table before her.” What do you think, was also laid on the table before Theodora? 3. In her writing the writer presented readers with the voice and not the person to whom it belonged. What was the writer trying
to accomplish? Base your answer upon the process of writing. 4. What was Theodora told about what happened to her manuscript? 5. Do you think Theodora was treated fairly by the publishing company? Explain based on the passage. GRAMMAR (1. Key to last week’s proofreading practice, paying attention to punctuation) 1. Put a comma after manuscript. 2. Put a comma after information. 3. This sentence is O.K. – subordinate clause essential to meaning. 4. This sentence is O.K. – subordinate clause essential to meaning. 5. Put a comma after explained. 6. Put a comma after methodology. 7. Put a comma after staff. 2. (Key to Fluency: Sentence Completion) 1. The small wandering tribe led a NOMADIC life in the desert. 2. Any person who loves language might pursue SEMANTIC studies. 3. The archaeologist, whom the villagers called, TRANSCRIBED the message that was carved on the wall of the tomb. 4. The kindly old woman had a BENIGN influence on her smaller children. 5. Because he accepted two invitations from its members, he soon found himself in a social QUANDARY. 6. Her obvious NASCENT social extroversion revealed itself before she could talk to the group. 7. Highly trained scientists use EMPIRICAL evidence to accurately prove or disprove a hypothesis. 8. After midnight, the four spies crept AUDACIOUSLY close to the enemy’s encampment. 9. As enemy shells exploded in the far distance, a sense of FOREBODING hung over the new camp like a thick fog. 10. When the rifle jammed, the young soldier muttered IMPRECATIONS at his bad luck. 11. Despite the overwhelming odds facing his ragged brigade, the general refused to CAPITULATE. 12. What one person would reasonably call OBSTINATE another might call courageous. 13. Searched as the reporters made, there was no SERENITY to be found in the troubled hearts and minds of soldiers and civilians.
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Infection treatment
I CAN readily think of two things that my patients do that upset me, and which undoubtedly have the same effect on any medical or dental practitioner. These are when they attempt to argue with me on dentistry and when they attempt to treat themselves with antibiotics. Now there are two fundamental aspects to the control of infection: prevention and treatment. In both cases, nonpharmacologic (not using drugs) efforts are of considerable importance. In preventing, one must eliminate those factors that lead to infection: bacterial plaque, oral debris, decayed teeth, etc. Post-surgical infections can be reduced by proper wound closure and the use of aseptic (sterile) and atraumatic (conservative) techniques. In treating infections, one must provide indicated local treatment of infection (scraping, incision, drainage etc.) and supportive care (ensuring adequate rest, nutrition, and fluid intake.) Antibiotics are only a part of treatment for infections. The other major part is removal of the cause of the infection. Therefore, it means that to solve the problem of a dental abscess, the first step is to decide if the condition is acute
or chronic. Acute abscesses must be drained and/or de-inflammed before instituting medication. Someone who acquires a swollen face as a result of a decayed tooth is suffering from the first stage of a periodontal abscess. Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic therapy should be prescribed for at least five days. Two things happen if an attempt is made to extract the offending tooth without first applying this treatment. The pus surrounding the tooth may disseminate to adjacent tissue or enter the bloodstream, thus exacerbating the situation. Secondly, due to the acidity of the swollen tissues, the anaesthetics may[not] work sufficiently, so the patient would have a very painful extraction. The need for antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent subacute endocarditis in patients with rheumatic heart disease who are to experience procedures that are likely to precipitate bacteria in the bloodstream is well known. The recommended dosage for most patients is 600,000 units of procaine penicillin G, mixed with 200,000 crystalline penicillin G administered intramuscularly one hour prior to the dental procedure and once daily for two days following that. A second aspect of prophylactic antibiotic coverage relates to the use of antibiotics to prevent infections after any dental operation. Studies show that apart from rheumatic heart
disease, as stated above, there is no need of someone to take antibiotics before having any type of dental surgery, whether it is a simple extraction or periodontal surgery. The dentist must balance the infection he prevents with antibiotics against the infections he causes with antibiotics due to the post-operation alterations in the normal flora of the mouth. Most bacteria that cause dental infections are within the antibacterial spectra of penicillin G, penicillin V, phenethicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin, the tetracycline, lincomycin, clindamycin and the cephalosporins.
Penicillin is the safest and most powerful antibiotic for severe infections. However, it should not be abused. It should only be used in severe infections, when the body defences are impaired, where the drug toxicity is particularly significant, as in infants, small children, the elderly, the debilitated, pregnant women, and those with liver and kidney disorders.
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