Guyana Chronicle papperpot E-paper 04-02-2024

Echoes of Guyana

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

A story of returning to your roots

Colin Nelson tending to the plants at his Cottage home. (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

Sunday, February 04, 2024

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

A passion for helping youth Young volunteer launches Youth League Guyana

EARTHA Scott is a single mother of three who gravitated towards volunteerism at an early age. Having grown up in a Salvation Army church as a little girl, she wanted to make the world a better place.

Being benevolent and

wanting to make a change to help others, she became a nurse and established her very own youth organisation, which has picked up some steam since its establishment.

Scott is the President of Youth League Guyana, founded in July 2023, and her goal

is to develop youths through their immediate needs to build capacity. She is from Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo and is a nurse attached to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH).

The Youth League Guyana has eight executive members

Eartha Scott

with more than 40 members and they are in the process of formulating a project which will be launched soon for youth empowerment.

She pointed out that Youth League Guyana is

hosting outreaches on the East Bank of Demerara, Berbice and Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo.

Scott’s journey as a volunteer started years ago and she sees it as a selfless act

because, growing up, she was always involved in projects to assist others. Having been involved in volunteerism for a long time, Scott would lend her time to many community-based projects to foster youth development.

“I feel empowered to assist others. I had a lot of training, and this is how I want to give back to society as a volunteer, so our youths can benefit. It feels good to be a part of something that has potential,” she said.

The motto of Youth League Guyana is “One step enables change, building a bridge unifies change” and it reminds her to keep going and never give up.

Scott is very pleased to be a part of the lives of the youths she encounters through her organisation and knows that even though the steps they are making are small, they are still something.

Entrepreneurship and other duties In the professional world, SEE PAGE XXIX

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

A journey from shyness to stardom

By Shaniya Harding

Finding his voice in the arts KWASI ‘Ace’ Edmondson is among the Guyanese musicians who have found their footing, creating a name for himself as a musician and etching his music into the minds of Guyanese. Kwasi has evolved in the face of truly unique challenges. Today, Kwasi is known for his explosive presence on stage and his mild-mannered personality that sometimes seeps into his melodic lyricism. However, he states there was a time when he was a shy teen who never dared step on stage. Before music, he described himself as harbouring anger, so, for Kwasi, music and the performing arts have been much more than a means to an end.

Overcoming stage fright and embracing creativity When the name Kwasi Ace is heard, images of an energetic and lively performance with the explosive bassline of a Soca

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track are conjured up in the mind. But before the excitement of music, Kwasi Ace was a bashful young man who first found his voice in poetry. A passionate Kwasi was a constant addition to his school’s dramatic pieces and plays throughout his school years. This was where his love and appreciation for all things creative was sparked. But as much as he was present and undeniably talented, he was still a voice that faded into the background at the time.

Kwasi cited his severe stage fright as one of his biggest hurdles in life. Throughout his latter teen years, Kwasi began writing and composing his own pieces, but his fear of stepping onto the stage was still something he struggled with. “In high school, we had our singing group. But this shyness was always there for me, I was singing in the background even though I composed some of our songs,” he said. Using poetry as a stepping stone, Kwasi began writing more of his music. By this time, his writings had garnered an individualistic creative touch that he is known for today by tackling social issues and chronicling personal challenges.

Rising to the spotlight and crafting a creative identity

The captivating Kwasi Ace on stage

Kwasi was thrust into the spotlight in a rather poetic fashion. His colleague who was slated to perform missed a major event, and Kwasi was suddenly promoted from a backup singer to lead vocalist. This was an eye-opening experience, and after overcoming his anxiety about the opinions of others, it seemed as though Kwasi became unstoppable as he lit up stages wherever he went. “My band member could not make it, and I had to perform. And when the time came, and I performed alone from then, I knew that I could perform on my own,” he said. Creativity in any form has always been a way for Kwasi to do more than express himself. It was a way of assessing society and his internal trials while connecting to Guyanese, many of whom fought similar battles.

Embracing Guyanese Music One of the reasons Kwasi has managed to make an indentation in the minds of Guyanese is due to his lyrics. His words and phrases are uniquely Guyanese, engaging his audience in songs reminiscent of a conversation two friends may have while walking along the Kitty seawall. Kwasi says his music is as relatable because it is inspired by the very people who listen to it. He explained that there are many ways to write music. Sometimes, his poetry is turned into melody, but there are moments where instrumentals have a soul of their own.

He stated that, “I initially started writing on aspects of society and aspects of my life…Every instrumental has a personality or character.”

Many argue that the creative arts are not shown nearly as much appreciation as they deserve. Whether this is fact or fiction is still up for debate by many, and even if this is the case, strides are being made in various sectors to develop the arts in Guyana. Kwasi is of a unique belief. He explained that appreciation for Guyanese music, particularly, must be crafted.

For the Guyanese people to love Guyanese music, they first have to experience it. He shared, “Whatever you choose to

Singer and musician Kwasi ‘Ace’ Edmondson

give people constantly, those are the things they are going to look forward to. If you are going to play Kwasi Ace on the radio stations and everywhere, that is what the people are going to want to hear.” He further added that, “But if I play Jamaican artists or music from other countries, that is what the people are going to want to hear.”

Before a musician, Kwasi Ace is, first, a Guyanese. Although much of his creative career was spent championing local music, he has recently taken larger steps towards giving his music a Guyanese identity. In his most recent works, Kwasi has changed the way his music is sung by fully utilising his Guyanese twang in his lyrics. Drawing inspiration from the older generation of calypsonians, Kwasi firmly believes that making Guyanese music unapologetically Guyanese is the key to finding our creative identity.

His words of wisdom to newer creatives in whatever field they choose to endeavour is to simply pursue their passion to the best of their ability, regardless of what others may think. Kwasi’s newest single is a song that embodies just that sentiment: with his song titled, ‘Think I k?”

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

Guyanese inventor pushes forward with polypharmacy manager device Hopeful of getting local support

By Michel Outridge IN 2017, the Guyana Chronicle published an article on the polypharmacy manager, a “machine that can save your life.”

The device and its concept were created by Mr. Lloyd Nurse, a US-based Guyanese inventor, who said that it is the world’s first digital polypharmacy manager. When manufactured and with appropriate feasibility and deployment, this machine and concept will solve most of the items at the centre of WHO’s initiative and effectively introduce a new science to the world. Nurse calls this concept AssiLoc or the internet science of Assigned Location.

Mr. Nurse explains how these new methods can track a single pill from manufacturing to patient via a pharmacist, notify when and how to access a specific pill, give instructions, and record the continuous effect on vitals.

During an interview, Nurse outlined the benefits of the Polypharmacy Manager and his progress since he started on this inventive journey.

When asked where he was in the evolution of this machine, Mr. Nurse responded, “We have been seeking funding via grants from the National Science Foundation. They have a programme called America Seed Funds that give about US$2,000,000 for the development and commercialisation of bright ideas and these types of innovation that can benefit societies.”

He added that he needed funds for hardware manufacturing and software development.

“We were invited by the programme directors at NSF to apply, but after the peer review, the application was denied.

We appealed the denial and were encouraged by the director to reapply because there were clear, useful and life-saving benefits in the inventions,” he said.

Nurse reported that he applied a second time, making sure that the miscommunications were appropriately addressed to eliminate any misunderstandings. However, again, the application was denied even though the facts were clearly illustrated.

Nurse believed that there was no sincere logic to the denial.

“I was devastated. In fact, it appeared that the reviewers pretended to be upset over being corrected on the errors made on the first application. They were calling the device an automatic pill dispenser. It is not. It is in fact a container management system capable of managing medication in most formats (liquid, pill, gel, syringes) and in any container,” Nurse explained.

Nurse recalled that the denial also made him feel as though he was an intruder trying to break into a vault. In response, Nurse stated that he was taking a break and looking elsewhere for support with the development of these innovations.

What happened since then?

There has been some development in that he expanded their intellectual property by filing a new patent using the method of assigned location that tracks a single pill or multiple

“There are many situations where persons are challenged, like those being newly discharged after surgery, people with heart and lung conditions, and many others, who want to reduce the risk of relapse and readmission or worse. I lost my mom due to medication error.”

Next steps

Lloyd Nurse displaying his pharos device.

pills in a medication regimen.

Nurse explained that this system uses blister cards. Blisters are those pills that come in boxes in the pharmacy.

“Those packages that you have to punch out each pill.

Sometimes, they are very difficult to extract. This new device is a magazine like the CD magazine used for discs in cars. The machine will notify you when you should take a pill and guide you through the dosing, even provide a means to unlock the slot and release the blister card, then ensure you replace the card after removing the pill,” he said.

The magazine will confirm that the pill was removed.

You can be asked to take a picture of placing the pill into your mouth.

Surrounding the possibility of the person not actually swallowing the pill, Nurse stated that the device is not intended to force persons to take medication and that the onus lies on the patient to be honest with their health. “If they don’t want to swallow a pill, they should say so. Most people don’t like to take medicine. The doctor and care team will know what to expect in advance and may have alternative suggestions.

But it is more important to help persons who truly want to be helped with medication usage and to avoid errors,” Nurse said.

Nurse told the Pepperpot Magazine that the plan for 2024 is to reach outward from the USA and to institutions such as the University of Guyana (UG) and hope for support from the Guyana Government to embark on a programme that could implement the device. “Guyana can be that beacon of light.

This is an old challenge that is thought to be impossible to solve. I see it as devine intervention because I am not that bright,” he said.

Nurse said that he has been in talks with UG’s Vice Chancellor, Dr Paloma Mohamed, about the benefits of the device.

“I attended the last diasporia engagement conference. This may well put UG on the map of significant discoveries... The tech world is a small place. Guyanese at home and abroad are as capable as anyone anywhere. President Ali and other Caribbean leaders have been encouraging technology and innovation and Prime Minister Motley specifically showcases inventors like Alan Emtage who created Archie, the first search engine but never got it patented. Great ideas need support and financing. I am not trying to prove that the world is not flat, but that guy got financial support plus free physical bodies,” he said.

Nurse related that this is a doorway to new scientific discoveries for the advancement of medical and pharmaceutical sciences. He reported that it is the art of mining authentic data to track things without the need for embedded chips and unique identifiers and providing real fuel for machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine.

Nurse stated that they can allocate a special lab to deal with these inventions. There are three initial models to be built. The tabletop models, the med-cart that will be a bonanza for nurses everywhere and the magazine for the control of expensive and potent drugs.

“I believe Guyana is at a stage where we can enter the limelight and shake the world. This is a solution to a multibillion-dollar problem,” he said.

Nurse added that the Executive Judges at MIT Pulse, the most prestigious technical school in the world, call these inventions “great ideas” with comments like, “The world desperately needs these devices and this is leading a solution with big potential.”

He stated that avoidable costs in the US alone are said to be over 200 billion a year. Most of these costs are related to the misuse of medicines. There is so much to be achieved with effective tools to advance precision and personalised medicine. One size doesn’t fit all. Some video renderings can be seen at www.ownumhealth.com

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

Cottage A glimpse into tradition and simplicity

COTTAGE, along Maichony, is as picturesque in nature as its name suggests.

But it is a community that many may overlook as just a stop along the way. Cottage covers a stretch of Maichony no more than a mile long. It is, however, one of the few places in Guyana that has remained primarily unchanged. Cottage is one of the best examples of what it means to be a village. With a population of less than 300 people, Cottage is certainly a place where people still farm and cows still have a place to graze.

The close-knit and friendly nature could be felt when strolling through the community. Cottage is home to a diverse culmination of people, where neighbours look out for each other. Like various other communities in

Some of the ducks that Anna rears at her Cottage home

One of its focal points is its nursery school. Although it is one of the smaller schools,

families. Anna Chichester lives at lot 1 Cottage, marked

as one of the first homes ever built in Cottage. Over the

of plants, some of which are crops while others are merely for decoration. Keeping true to the nature of self-sustainability, Anna also raises several chickens and ducks, a sight that is very unlikely to be found anywhere around Georgetown. She welcomed the Pepperpot Magazine into her home, explaining that spending her life in Cottage was beautiful. Experiences such as farming and manual labour are still a part of life in Cottage, and Anna says that she would not have it any other way.

Anna grew up in Cottage and experienced a childhood filled with all the countryside activities that one may expect. For as long as she could remember, and going as far back as her family’s history is recorded, their home marks the village’s

importance of agriculture to the community and, more significantly, to life.

Agriculture is such a big part of Cottage’s existence that childhood memories and fireside stories are told of cattle rearing and crop cultivation. Anna recounted stories she was told of how her grandfather survived and fed his family. She shared that, “My grandfather loved to mine cows and loved farming.” This illustrious admiration for agriculture was forged from the decades when farming was essential, the only option available for work. Some may argue that with the introduction of modern amenities and countless job opportunities now available, small-scale farming is no longer relevant.

Anna disagrees. She says her way of life is ideal.

Lifelong Cottage resident, Anna Chichester

Guyana, Cottage was built on a cotton plantation. The community’s agricultural essence is still alive and well, with almost every home having a kitchen garden of its own.

it is still an incredibly lively addition to the community.

During the Pepperpot Magazine’s visit to the community, we came across the home of one of Cottage’s first

A few cheerful students and their teacher at the Cottage Primary School (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

years, Anna’s grandparents have passed. But their beliefs and way of living have endured. However, with a few modern adjustments, Anna tries to live life as authentically as possible.

Anna’s home stands out as being visibly agricultural-orientated. Her vast open yard houses different species

beginning. Although much of the community’s history is preserved, a few aspects are still missing. Anna shared that, “Growing up, we all just knew it as Lot 1. I do not know exactly how we got lot 1, but maybe it was because of my parents.” What Anna does know for certain, however, is the prevalence and

According to Anna, the simplicity of life in Cottage is what adds to how special calling the community home is. She stated “To tell you the truth, we do not want to move anywhere else. We just like it here because we can get everything fresh. We could SEE PAGE XXIV

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

Echoes of Guyana A story of returning to your roots

By Shaniya Harding

change could be felt at the very depths of that way of ALTHOUGH we share life. Colin spent many years various similarities with working with the government our Caribbean counterof Guyana in Georgetown parts and even some of and occasionally returned to our South American neighCottage to visit his family. bours, Guyana is still vastly This life, however, did not unique in countless regards. do much to quench his thirst As unique as life in Guyfor adventure, and Colin venana is, people venture out tured off to the United States to other countries every of America more than two decades ago.

The shift from Cottage to Georgetown was great, but the change from Guyana to America was simply unimaginable. Colin came from a family of eleven siblings, and his parents were rice farmers. Georgetown was already a big step, but New York seemed like a leap into the unknown for a young Colin. “I liked adventure and this was a laid-back community,” Colin said.

This drive to experience more is what pushed Colin to leave Guyana. He explained how when the opportunity presented itself, he did not think twice.

He explained that because of his urge to experience a life of excitement, he no longer found joy in the mundane nature of life in Cottage. He stated that, “In those days, when you did a trade, they would trade to Suriname, Brazil, Panama, and Miami. The Colin Nelson tending to the plants at his Cottage spirit stayed with me home. from that, rice farming day- some in hopes of cre- trade of the day, the com- became not a very pleasant ating a better life, others in munity of Cottage was the activity.” search of a fresh start, and embodiment of simplicity.

Misconceptions and corothers who see a certain As Colin shared, “It was al- rections: educating others appeal in travelling far and ways a laid-back community. about Guyana wide. But some people have Nothing exciting really ever In 1995, Colin left for such a profound love and happened here. It is a farming the United States. In those deep-rooted admiration community.” days, Guyana was not nearly for their country that they But Colin has long pos- as talked about as it is today. simply must return. Some sessed an adventurous spir- Perhaps it is owed to our say it is a feeling, an urge, it, and at an early age, he lack of notoriety that Colin a need to answer the call of moved to the capital city of had countless experiences their homeland.

Georgetown. The location telling people about this little Growing up in a World Beyond Georgetown Colin Nelson was born and raised in the community of Cottage. The village he called home more than seventy years ago had an easy-going atmosphere to it.

In a time when most people lived life one day at a time, and farming was the only

country in South America.

He had even more experience dispelling misconceptions about Guyana.

According to Colin, even in conversations with people from the West Indies, there were still many falsehoods and a surprising lack of knowledge about Guyana.

He explained that living beyond the boundary of Guyana required his sense of patriotism to be greater than ever.

He stated that, “In my community in America, which was basically a West Indian community, I would interact with Jamaicans. And they would ask where Guyana is.”

On various occasions, Colin would seek to educate his fellow West Indians on what life in Guyana entailed. His stories of his homeland, where the sunshine covered a land of fruit trees and friendly people and where fun was swimming by the waterside, were unfamiliar stories for many of the people he spoke with.

He stated, “When I started talking about small days and growing up in Guyana and then things that happened; that we would do in Guyana as fun, they do not have a clue where we are coming from.”

Like many misconceptions the rest of the world has about Guyana, Colin also learned a few interesting things about America. One of the things that Colin now

Cottage villager, Colin Nelson (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

has a great appreciation for is Guyana’s weather. Living overseas, he experienced the unpredictability of the four seasons. He shared that, “I only have praise for this country. The beautiful things about Guyana… I remember in 2009, stepping out of my house and there was snow up to my knees. We were told to stay at home until the weather clears up, and it was five days.”

Returning to cottage: embracing the simple life once more Throughout the years, Colin has explored the captivating wide expanse of

Guyana. From our waterfalls and mountains to our wild animals and hospitable people, Colin says that there are very few complaints to be made about Guyana. Today, he has returned to his Cottage home, where he lives the easy-going life his community has long been known for. With all its beauty and natural charm, Guyana is poised for greater things. As Colin shares, “The coming together of more people is essential for the development and growth of Guyana.

Guyana is still a beautiful country.”

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

Overcoming challenges in the heart of Cottage

By Shaniya Harding JULIEANNA Chichester was born and raised in the village of Cottage, a small farming community in rural Mahaicony. She was brought up in a loving family, surrounded by a supportive community, and experienced the best of life in the countryside. Julieanna described her childhood as simply picturesque. Her journey through life was not as easy as it may seem, but regardless of her ups, downs, challenges, and mistakes, Julieanna has truly become the embodiment of the spirit of resilience.

Growing Up In Cottage Julieanna was born and raised in the community of Cottage. The quiet and reserved 20-year-old says she has always found solace in being alone. Her upbringing is a familiar one to anyone who comes from the countryside: sun-filled days running through farms and climbing fruit trees. Julieanna believes her love for nature and natural inclination to stay indoors were forged by her upbring-

ing. “I remember playing in the yard all around, climbing from tree to tree, but a lot of trees were cut down,” she said, adding, “My childhood and growing up was around family at home.”

For most of her childhood, Julieanna was the last child and only daughter in her family. The early years, she says, were the best. Her family was happy and so was she. A few years later, however, her parents separated. Their separation tore the family apart and had a profound impact on each child in one way or another.

She stated that, “My family was a happy family until the separation from my mom and dad. And when I wrote my exams, everyone separated.

My brother went here and there.” The situation’s impact on the family was so drastic it was almost chaotic, and Julieanna says she struggles to remember most of her teenage years.

“I was very young when they separated, and I can not remember half of my childhood. “She further explained just how much of an impact it had on her. She vaguely remembers moving back and

forth between her parents, going from house to house, but never truly feeling at home. “At one time when they separated, I used to be with mom, and then I would be with my dad.” She said.

Whereas she felt somewhat lost during that period, she explained that each member of the family had their own individual reactions and ways of dealing with the situation.

Her eldest brother was very angry with the situation and harboured plenty of animosity for a long time. She stated, “My big brother used to be this happy person who used to socialise and these things.

But when they separated, he just became a whole different person.”

Julieanna eventually returned to live with her father and her older brothers. She does believe that this was the best conclusion the situation could have had. She urged parents never to underestimate the importance of stability within a child’s life. She explained that moving from Mommy’s house to Daddy’s house was as different as two worlds in the mind of a young Julieanna. “When I

Julieanna Chichester (Shaniece Bamfield Photo)

used to live with my mom, I was what people would call a house bird. I never really went anywhere or mixed with anyone. But with my dad, I could play have fun with my cousins and go swimming and these kinds of things,” she said.

Motherhood Cottage is the only home that Julieanna has ever known. As in every small, close-knit community, everyone knows Julieanna and she seems to know everyone.

The community has remained mostly the same and has seen very little change. Julieanna’s life, however, has undergone a few changes. Julieanna is the mother of a two-year-old son. She got pregnant while still in high school, and although she admits that it was

not the best decision, she is determined to give her son the stability and assurance she struggled to find as a child.

At just 17, Julieanna entered into her CXC examinations pregnant. This unique experience garnered a lot of attention from her family.

Julieanna and her son’s father subsequently separated.

Her experience as a young, first-time mother was not the fairytale that some would imagine.

The single most challenging aspect of that time was dealing with people. She explained that she fought to create a good relationship with the father of her son, and today the pair is doing their best at co-parenting. Although Julieanna’s son does not live with his father, he does not lack a father figure.

He is shown unlimited love and support from his uncles and grandfather.

The way forward After completing high school with her son, Julieanna took steps towards developing herself. Today, the young mother has a job and is balancing motherhood and working quite well. Julieanna’s advice to other young women going through a situation similar to hers is to be careful and take life in strides. She said, “All I could say to young women is to take things step by step.” Julieanna has big plans for her and her son’s future. She is devoted to giving her son the best start in life and presenting him with the certainty that he is loved.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

The Preservation of the Past

Delving into the community of Cottage divides the road is among the oldest and largest silk cotton trees left standing.

The terms close-knit and family-oriented do not do justice to the culture of Cottage. The community’s tapestry is shaped by just a few families. Eleita shared, “Everybody looks out for everybody. Though you may have some, who may not.

On a level plane, we can say that everybody looks out for somebody else.” Perhaps the nature of togetherness, true passion, and love for each other could be owed to the community’s founding. The nature of the loving people of Cottage is simply a part of who they are.

By Shaniya Harding FROM a distance, the infamous Perseverance Tree can be seen. Standing tall with its naturally imposing nature, its legacy lives throughout the surrounding communities. The village of Cottage, just two villages before the mysterious tree, has a curious history of its own. A small community, it is home to a diverse culmination of people who founded the village on agriculture. Said to have been birthed from a single family, Cottage was founded on the beliefs of family, togetherness, and unity.

Passing down the Past

The Cottage of Old At almost the end of Cottage, lives one of the community’s countless lifelong inhabitants. Eleita Woolford has called Cottage home long before the village became what it is today. Cottage and the series of neighbouring villages have a deep past and history rooted in the importance of family and tradition.

Cottage is among the oldest Guyanese settlements and has lived to see the evolution and drastic changes that accompany the people’s way of life. Very few Guyanese remember what life entailed living in a community like Cottage mere decades ago.

With various struggles that range far beyond financial, life in the Cottage of old required strength. “Life was not what it is now,” said Eleita. “Those times, we had the red road and one bus that would go to Georgetown. It goes in the morning and it waits and comes back in the afternoon, and if you miss that bus, you are out of luck.”

Eleita’s parents founded a big family in Cottage, giving birth to a team of five boys and five girls. As

Eleita Woolford (Shaniece Bamfield Photos )

youngsters growing up in Cottage, they were privileged to hear countless stories about the community’s origin. As their grandparents gathered around to tell stories meant to entertain, they shared the origin of the community they call home and strengthened the tapestry of togetherness.

According to various accounts by community members and Eleita, Cottage was founded by a single family.

The captivating historical tale tells of an Englishman named Chichester, who bought the plot of land the community stands on today.

“It was a plantation owned by one man named James Chichester,” Eleita shared.

She went on further to add that, “We are heirs of James Chichester. They divided up the land, and everyone got their piece.”

The details of the mysterious man who founded a community have mostly been retained through storytelling. According to Eleita, James Chichester and his wife, who was a

woman from Africa, gave rise to the first set of people to be born and bred

in Cottage. Eleita shared, “My grandfather got this land from James Chich-

Ta l e s p a s s e d d o w n through time and generations are crucial in preserving the most significant aspects of human history. The history

derful. Teaching at several schools across Guyana and impacting the lives of the children she encountered was always her aim and utmost priority. She shared that, “I started teaching as a young teacher. I moved from school to school, from Rosignol right through.”

Eleita admitted that she was initially not passionate about teaching but soon joined the profession after working just a month. She told the Pepperpot magazine that, “I was enrolled to be a midwife and I was waiting to start. But my mother never liked the idea of me being a midwife.” She further added, “While waiting to become a midwife, I was offered to teach for one month for a teacher who had gone away.

At that time, the headmaster told me to come for just one month. And so I went, and one month became all these years.”

The farmlands of Cottage

ester. James came from England, and his wife came from Africa. So that’s how the community evolved.”

The community had an almost ideal beginning.

As the children of James Chichester, who were said to be primarily boys, ventured out and got married, they added their families to the growing Chichester legacy and the community of Cottage. Originally a cotton plantation, the tree that

of Cottage may not have been taught in a classroom, but it is worth sharing nonetheless. Eleita has, however, garnered years of experience in the classroom, and she says whether it is learning to read, write, or look at your village’s history, learning accompanied by good teaching is imperative.

Eleita has been a teacher for more than three decades.

She describes her days as an educator as simply won-

Teaching about the past plays an integral lesson in learning for the future. Several of Cottage’s villagers have formed the Chichester family group. Their aim, as it has long been, is to keep the essence of their community alive by preserving its history. So whether you ask a neighbour, friend, or grandparent, find out the past of your village. You never know what you may find.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

Some good, clean, fun GAMES night at Tower Suites was off the chains! It was great to forget the electronic gadgets and be in the moment with friends, colleagues and family. I played Ludo for the first time in 20 years and did not do well, but I was exceptional with Chinese Checkers and dominoes. Tonnete was great at Ludo but terrible at Scrabble. It brought back fond memories of playing Checkers with the family years ago. Mom and I competed really hard for the Chinese Checkers champion position. My friends Jessica and Eon took time out to relax and have fun. They were the first to arrive and started playing Snake and Ladder and Jessica won most of the games.

“This is a great initiative, and I love it.This is great!” said Jessica. Jessica bragging about her win was interrupted when Eon dominated the Real Guyana game, but he is Guyanese, so he had the advantage.

“It’s so cool how much information you can learn while having a blast. And the best part is I didn’t even feel bored or need to check my phone. That’s the sign of a truly engaging and educational game night. I found it fun, gainful, and full of knowledge. Game nights like that are the best!” Eon. Real Guyana was one feature game for the evening and one of the favourites. I learned a lot of information, too, friendship and create lasting memories.

Communication skills and teamwork can improve for game night activities. Many games require collaboration, negotiation, and communication to win. This can help you and your friends learn to work together effectively and express yourselves clearly.

Getting to know each other better is one of the benefits of an event like this. Games can reveal hidden talents, competitive streaks, and unexpected quirks in your friends. This can deepen your understanding and appreciation for each other.

because it was new to me. I am so proud of Linden Cave for creating this high-quality educational game, and I can’t wait to see this game utilised in the education department.

“An organised game night is something that is definitely going to attract patrons who want to unwind for a few hours, leaving their hectic schedules and smart devices behind. I believe it’s something that is needed these days more than ever.

Tabletop games bring out so much positivity, team-building strategy and problem-solving that it will be difficult to participate and not have some great fun and create lasting memories along the way. Growing a fraternity of local members is going to pay off well as people are always looking for something new and exciting to do in Guyana. The potential here is exponential and Tower has taken a step in the right direction.”

Linden Cave Game nights are a fantastic way to unwind, have fun, and reap many benefits! Here are just a few: Strengthening bonds and relationships with family and friends. Shared laughter and experiences: Games nights create a space for shared laughter, friendly competition, and inside jokes. These positive experiences strengthen the bonds of

Boosting mental and emotional well-being. Stress relief and relaxation: Games take your mind off everyday worries and allow you to focus on having fun. This can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

SEE PAGE XIV Cognitive stimulation is another benefit. Many games

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TOO YOUNG TO DIE – The Conclusion SHE found him one week later, after her funeral, at the Magistrate’s Court, knowing he would be there after hearing mourners speak with disgust at the charges he had gotten. She stood there and watched in disbelief as he walked free of the charges that had nothing to do with death by dangerous driving.

“So much for justice,” she expressed, deeply disappointed.

He had a carefree smile as he chatted with two detectives who had exited the court with him.

“Possibly his friends,” she said dejected, feeling as though everything was lost, “If only he can see me, see my bloody and torn skin and clothes.”

An image she wanted to haunt his thoughts so he would not have peace of mind.

“A sort of revenge,” she said, anger rising within her, “But how can I make that happen?”

The man turned and walked with confidence, striding to his car right where she was standing. Suddenly, he froze, a flash of fear on his face. He stepped back a little, turned around and asked his detective friends, “You see that?”

“See what?” they asked, puzzled.

“Is he seeing me?” Sandhya asked with a surge of hope.

She stepped away from his car to see if his eyes would follow her and he did.

“Yes!” she exulted, “It happened. Now the drama starts.”

The man walked cautiously to his car, and his friends asked, concerned, “Are you okay, man?”

He made to say something then decided against it and drove away.

She followed him in his car in her spiritual form, knowing she could allow her haunting image to be seen at the right time.

He stopped by a beer garden and was joined a short while later by his two detective friends. He pushed two sealed envelopes across the table to them and ordered a round of beers.

She watched them as they celebrated with another few rounds, then made her appearance, sitting at a table nearby.

He wasn’t facing that table but when he turned, he shouted, “Damn!” jumping up and knocking over some beers.

His friends, startled by his actions, asked confused, “What is wrong with you, man?”

The man inhaled deeply, hitting the table angrily with his fist, “This is not happening!”

Other patrons turned to look, and his friends got up and said, “I think you should go home and relax.”

He left abruptly and Sandhya felt satisfied she was unnerving him with fear.

His house, an outstanding modern design in an upscale area and the cars in his garage underlined his rich status.

“Money does talk,” she said, “And the poor have no voice, but I will find a voice to ensure you pay because I was too young to die. I had a future.”

At home, things weren’t looking good for her family.

Her mother had to be taken to the hospital because her blood pressure had risen to a dangerous level. Her young brother and sister looked so lost with their big sister gone and the mother had taken ill.

Sandhya stayed close to them for a period, though just a spiritual being, seen only by Princess, whom she had to caution, “Don’t bark and wag your tail in excitement when you see me. I don’t want anybody to know I’m here.”

Princess had sat down with one paw over her eyes and peeping from under. Sandhya had to laugh to herself, “Gosh, you’re so smart and cute. I’ll really miss you.”

The day her mother came out of the hospital, Sandhya went back to find her killer. She knew she would have to leave Earth soon for a Heavenly abode, so she had to make things happen.

Life went on for the rich man, of course, but she followed him everywhere, at fancy restaurants, bars and drag-racing events. Her haunting disturbed him so much that people in his close circle thought he was showing signs of a mental breakdown.

Then, one morning, whilst he was having breakfast, he broke down and shouted at her, “What do you want?!”

His wife looked at him startled, “Who are you talking to?”

“The girl,” he said, suppressed anger on his face.

“What, girl?”

There was worry on his wife’s face, given his recent strange behaviour.

The man got up, frustrated and angry at the same time at not having admitted his wrong but forced now to do so.

“The accident I had made on the road and the young girl that died.”

He paused and inhaled deeply, then continued in a lower tone, “She has been haunting me.”

There was a long moment of silence as his wife looked at him, shocked. Then she asked quietly, “Why do you think she’s doing that?”

“I was not charged for her death, and her family was not compensated.”

“And I guess she’s from a poor family?”

“Yes,” he answered.

His wife, looking deeply upset, said, “There’s your answer. You literally killed a child on the road and walked free. Her soul is still here because she wants justice.”

“What can I do?”

“You need to visit the family and have a talk with them about the loss of their child and what you can do for them.”

He took his wife’s advice, wanting the problem to go away.

He did better than Sandhya expected, expressing his deep regrets to her mother for what happened and giving her an envelope with a large amount of cash. She was reluctant to take the money, inconsolSEE PAGE XXIV able in her grief because no

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A BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONVERSATION ON NAMES -IN VOGUE - WITH SIGNIFICANCE

FROM around the late 1970s to the early ‘80s, some names were dropped from the name list in the Afro community locally and at least in the Anglophone nations of Caribbean-North America. African names were sought after, and that has eased but has not faded away. The argument now is that names and Kaftans don’t mean conscious souls and works, though that is true. However, some names beyond the era of the slave trade do embody significant contributions and should be made aware of in the context of nurturing awareness and understanding about what went before. One such is a priestess of the Order of the older African civilization of Khemet, now in the dark days of changing seasons, Hypatia.

The rise of Christian Rome was an age of sinister shadows, where knowledge was destroyed and replaced by faith in the Godmen of the Church. “In the early part of the fifth century of the Christian era, Hypatia, the daughter of Theon, the mathematician, conducted an academy in Alexandria -Khemet. This talented lady gave lectures

on the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle and instructed her students on the works of Apollonius and other geometers. Bishop Cyril decided that such knowledge must be suppressed, and he proceeded to take the necessary steps to achieve that objective, as related in the text of INTRODUCTION TO AFRICAN CIVILIZATIONS By John G. Jackson. “ Each day before her academy stood a long train of chariots; her lecture rooms were crowded with the wealth and fashion of Alexandria.

They came to listen to her discourse on those questions which man, in all ages, has asked, “What am I?”, “Where am I”, What can I know?”

Hypatia and Cyril! Philosophy and Bigotry. They can’t exist together. So Cyril felt, and on that feeling, he acted.

Hypatia was assaulted

by Cyril’s mob - a mob of many monks- tripped in the street and killed by the club of Peter the reader. See- THE CONFLICT BETWEEN RELIGION AND SCIENCE pgs 55-56 by Prof. John William Draper. The following text of what transpired is not compatible with this column.

Thus, Hypatia, in the learned

traditions of the high priestesses, lived and was slain in the pursuit of freedom of the mind to question and express alternate views and positions.

This is a name that must become familiar, relevant to the defining instruction of what is, and what should be. A holistic study of that era would be ‘THE ARAB INVASION OF EGYPT’ and THE LAST 30 YEARS OF THE ROMAN DOMINIon By Alfred Butler.

The passing age of male names like Barrington, Alfred, Walter, Michael, and the female counterparts like Cheryl, Brenda, Donna and Elizabeth seems to have elapsed and are no longer ready choices for young couples, except in literature. I’ve never met a living Hypatia, and this historical literature is not common reading, and overall, that’s sad. The thing is with a name, what a responsibility it carries. Most of our names in the past emerged out of movies, religion, and, of course, names after a favourite senior relative and even of the characters portrayed by actors. Naming is a private family thing, and in this age, that’s where the discussion begins. No cultic influence can easily prevail. But to con-

clude the world of Hypatia, we must consider in closing: Her world was a matriarchal construct, so it was not difficult for her, with her intellectual merits, to develop who she was. On the other hand, the Romans (in the age of Byzan-

tine and before), regardless of adopting Christianity, theirs was a patriarchal military empire and may have envied the influence this woman carried, even as much as the science she lectured on. Thus she may have been an affront to all

they stood for, whether pagan or their own construct of this new faith whose original African followers they had persecuted in Cartage, forcing many of them to migrate to West Africa, before Rome itself became Christian.

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Some good, clean... challenge your brain in different ways, from memory and strategic thinking to creativity and problem-solving. This can keep your mind sharp and improve cognitive function.

Mood enhancement: The laughter, social interaction, and sense of accomplishment that come with games nights

can boost your mood and leave you feeling happy and fulfilled.

Additional benefits: Learning new skills: Some games can teach you new things, such as historical facts, geographical knowledge, or even foreign languages.Breaking the ice: Games can be a great way

to get to know new people or break the ice in a social setting.

Here is some more feedback from participants of the event: “I had a blast! The initiative was fantastic. It brought people together and created a fun and social atmosphere. I think it’s a great way to build

connections and enjoy some friendly competition. We played old games and even learned new games. Keep up the good work! I didn’t know everyone there, but at the end of the night, I met new people.” Shenieka Thompson “It was an excellent game night, well thought out. I truly enjoyed spending time with my friends and meeting new people as well.” Ludmila “Games night was really fun! Got my competitive side out lol” Lennese “Overall, it was a great experience. It creates a safe space for clean fun among adults. Highly interactive and allowed a prolonged screen break from online games or gadgets in general.

My favourites were ‘Wuh ya seh?’ and Connect 4.” Shontelle Davis-Daniels Jenna was intense and

FROM PAGE XI

popular and Wuh ya seh? was another popular game that was also created by Linden Cave. Games night is so much fun and interesting.

“I am grateful that I had the opportunity to bond with friends and family while challenging each other’s strategies. I love how board games can be both competitive and cooperative. I really

enjoyed playing the different Guyanese games; they were really fun, interesting, and educational. Thanks to Tower Hotel.”Tamirez Trotman So, next time you’re looking for a fun and rewarding way to spend time with friends, consider hosting a game night! You might be surprised at all the benefits it brings.

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Navigating Environmental Responsibility

EPA’s Annual Report Submission Deadline Approaches

AS we stand at the threshold of a new year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues a

mental reports, a pivotal moment for those committed to sustainable and responsible developmental

commitment towards environmental stewardship.

These reports provide a comprehensive overview of

crucial reminder to developers and stakeholders nationwide. The last day of March 2024 marks the deadline for the annual submission of environ-

practices.

The submission of the annual report to the Agency is not merely a regulatory formality; it serves as a testament to developers’

the environmental impact of projects, allowing the EPA to monitor, assess, and guide sustainable developSEE PAGE XVII

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Navigating Environmental...

ment initiatives across the country.

Developers have two distinct options for preparing and submitting annual reports to the Agency. Each option is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the environmental impact of their operations.

Option 1: Description of Activities: The first option requires developers to submit a detailed description of activities carried out in the following areas: 1. Operation: Provide an account of the day-to-day operations, including any changes or upgrades made during the reporting period.

2. Waste and Hazardous Waste/Materials Management: Detail how waste is managed, treated, and disposed of, emphasising any measures taken to minimise environmental impact.

3. Compliance, Monitoring, and Reporting: Demonstrate adherence to environmental regulations and standards. This includes monitoring processes and mechanisms in place to report any deviations promptly.

Option 2: Compliance with Permit Conditions: The second option involves reporting activities performed to comply with EACH ONE of the Permit Conditions outlined in the Final Environmental/Operation Permit issued to the developer. This option demands a thorough examination and documentation of how each condition has been met during the reporting period.

FROM PAGE XVI

Two Ways to Submit Your Annual Report: To ensure a seamless submission process, the EPA provides developers with two convenient methods: 1. Online Submission: - Visit the official EPA-GUYANA website.

- Navigate to the ‘Annual Report’ section.

- Submit report to the EPA’s email address: epa@ epaguyana.org - Receive confirmation of successful submission.

Physical Submission: - Visit the official EPA-GUYANA website.

- Navigate to the ‘Annual Report’ section.

- Download the Annual Report form.

- Complete the form with accurate and detailed information.

- Submit the physical copy to the EPA office by the specified deadline.

Embracing Environmental Responsibility: As Guyana strides forward in its pursuit of sustainable development, the annual report submission process becomes a collaborative effort. As key contributors to this endeavour, developers play a pivotal role in shaping a future where economic progress co-exists harmoniously with ecological preservation.

The EPA urges all developers to adhere to the annual report submission’s March 31, 2024 deadline. Let us collectively weave a narrative of responsible development that safeguards our environment for generations to come.

Together, let us build a legacy of sustainable progress, one annual report at a time.

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Flower waste management AS Valentine’s Day approaches, the hunt for the perfect gift is on for many. Fresh flowers may be the most popular and annual gift associated with Valentine’s Day. While it’s only now gaining popularity in Guyana in recent years, it is a billion-dollar industry in many developed countries. In fact, it is a booming business in these countries, regardless of Valentine’s or not. People use fresh flowers for wedding ceremonies, birthday gifts, religious events and many other occasions. With that said, as Guyana develops further, so will these existing industries, including flowers.

There is a flower waste problem in many of these countries as well. I always believe in prevention rather than finding a cure before issues arise beyond our control. As such, I decided to dedicate this week’s column towards flower waste management. You might be thinking, how can flowers ever be a waste

product? Aren’t they on the earth already? Without proper management, flowers can become pollutants. Lately, I have seen a specific solution to the overuse of fresh flowers and how its “waste” is used in the textile industry in India. Flowers are used all year long in very large quantities for religious purposes in India. Most of the flowers ended up in drainage and even the rivers. As such, new businesses were developed to provide a solution to these challenges.

The natural dyes/colours of the flowers can be used to dye textiles. As such, a clothing business was developed to use only flower dyes to colour their textiles and even make patterns with the flowers themselves. It created a unique style and inspired many big brands to purchase the textiles as well.

The idea of turning trash into cash is not a foreign comfort.

Whether you consider this approach to an innovative business through flowers or another form of waste—it provides opportunities to create an income while ensuring the sustainability of a green environment. I applaud efforts such as these. Even if you can’t afford to create a large company, there are other unique ways to create a business opportunity by using flower waste.

You can collect flower petals and dehydrate them to create stickers or decor. Certain scented flowers can also be used to extract oils and make perfumes. The internet has a lot of great resources explained by experts from around the world on other ways on how to make byproducts of used flowers. I believe we should invest in innovative business methods. We can use this in all sectors—not just with flowers- to create solutions to everyday problems. As you collect your Valentine’s Day roses or sell your bouquets—I hope you consider some sustainable approaches afterwards. It’s the least we can do for ourselves and our planet.

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What actually requires my attention?

I HAVE been thinking a lot about how to make the most of my time as I always want to do so much but often struggle to find the time (and sometimes the effort) to get it done. In my last column, I spoke of purpose, but how can we focus on that when we are not sure what is important to focus on at all? The fact is who we are is how we spend our time.

It takes a lot of practice to form habits, which, if healthy, are what guarantee success. However, before I get into habits and their formation (my next column), I think it is beneficial to first acknowledge what we are forming habits around. What are we focusing on, or should we be focusing on? Do we already have habits that are impeding us?

I will give an example of something that may seem like such a trivial thing we may all do, but it has more of an effect on us than some may realise.

I had a habit of catching up with family and friends very early in the morning. It is a great way to start the day, but sometimes, it revolved around topics that did not need discussing at such an early time (or probably ever) as it interrupted my positive mindset almost as soon as I woke. When I realised this, I spent more time reflecting on what I should actually be focusing on.

As always, before change happens, there must be acknowledgement like the above. How are you currently spending your time? Many of us can almost automatically answer with ideas of too much television or social media, but it is also important to analyse the amount of enjoyment or even sense that comes with these activities.

We all have different priorities but based on science,

I can tell you what psychologists recommend that we focus on to live our best lives; ourselves, our relationships and our livelihood (work).

The truth is, and you will give yourself more grace as you accept it, we will never have the time to do absolutely everything we want to do.

Further, we do not simply have the time. We have to make it, so make it for the worthy.

If you map out a typical day, it would look almost the same for most. If you sleep well (6-8 hours) and work a typical 8–10-hour workday, you just have 6-8 hours of time to fill in all the rest. We can assume at least two of those are other chores and obligations, so there are just a few hours in a day to focus on personal care, relationships, passion projects etc. How much of this very limited time is used meaningfully?

I think people have the wrong idea about time management as it is not simply about achieving maximum productivity and having allto-do lists completed every day. The more we do that and fail (as we will), the worse we will feel. Time management is actually just about using your time intentionally, using it effectively and not just efficiently.

For example, if you are beating yourself up for using social media too much, maybe it is just the way you are doing it, and it is not with intention. Are you just sitting and scrolling through content that is not adding any value to your life or worse, hurting you, or are you using it for heathy communication and inspiration for your own purpose?

That’s the key to healthy time management- intention!

I have a tool that I use very often, which has changed my life in terms of

how I use my time and my view of how I have wasted so much in the past.

It is Eisenhower’s Urgent/Important Principle, and it aids everyone in thinking, analysing, and prioritising what is important and separating importance from meaningless distractions.

The basis of the principle is to understand the difference between importance and urgency.

He suggests that we put all our activities into four categories for review and prioritisation. These are urgent and important, urgent but not important, important but not urgent and neither urgent nor important.

The first thing is to know the difference between the two. Important activities are identified as those that have a goal-achieving outcome, whereas urgent activities demand immediate attention as there are typically immediate negative consequences if they aren’t prioritised.

So, how do we use this?

A good way to start is by making a list of what usually takes up a lot of time, what you do daily, what you would like to get done, etc., to put them into the appropriate categories for a realisation of intent and a diminishment of distraction.

Delving in..

It is important to remember that these look different for everyone as prioritisation is personal and subjective; therefore, the examples I give are based on what I would put in each category.

1. Urgent and Important.

Two types of situations fall into this category: the unforeseen and the procrastinated.

For me, Urgent and Important is the well-being of my family and friends. No matter what is going on, if a friend or family member is in

trouble, one would typically drop everything as its both urgent and important.

Regarding procrastination, if there was a work deliverable due tomorrow,

nothing other than the unforeseen should take attention away from it.

Having said that, you can eliminate one of the above with more efficient time man-

agement; therefore, if one thing comes up, you do not have two urgent and important things.

SEE PAGE XXV

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WHY ARE MANGROVES SO IMPORTANT TO GUYANA?

THIS column has visited the subject of Mangroves and its relationship to Guyana in quite a few articles, and today, we revisit it. We do so because of the importance of Mangroves to Guyana in several ways and also because the Ministry of Agriculture last year established a Mangrove Information and Conservation Centre under the auspices of National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). This is the first such Centre established in the Caribbean and its importance was underlined when the responsibility of opening it was given to Prime Minister, Hon. Mark Phillips.

The Prime Minister pointed out that Mangroves were part of the country’s policy of using Guyana’s forests as carbon sinks since they absorb and store great quantities of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere for the benefit of the world and, as such, reduce the effects of Climate Change which is the greatest environmental threat to the planet.

In addition to mitigating climate change and the environmental threat, mangroves, as part of the country’s forest system, have earned money through the sale of carbon credits with HESS Corporation, for example, paying $750 million. Formerly, the focus was almost wholly on the environmental impact of Mangroves; now that there is greater awareness of the financial value of Mangroves, more effort is devoted to their preservation.

Mangroves help to preserve wildlife biodiversity. Within the mangrove systems, various kinds of wildlife can flourish; in particular, they are valuable nurseries for fish of various kinds. They, therefore, provide a food resource for the coastal villages and employment for many people.

They provide nesting places for many sea birds, and even small songbirds sometimes build their nests on the taller mangroves. Many people prefer mangrove honey, and sometimes coastal residents locate hives so their bees can visit the mangroves. Coastal residents have developed a close relationship with mangroves and regard them as a health-giving environment.

The greatest benefit mangroves afford to Guyana, a country whose coast is below sea level and where 90% of the population resides, is to save it from flooding and erosion by the sea. Whenever the sea comes into the land, it destroys farms, and the land becomes infertile with the sea salt. More importantly, it erodes the land and villagers have to retreat further inland, becoming poorer.

There are stories on East Coast Demerara of Dutch coffins floating onto shore, indicating that habitable and fertile land once extended several miles out to sea during the period the colony belonged to the Netherlands. Nowadays, coastal villagers have become more aware of the value of mangroves and increasingly realise that their well-being is linked with the preservation and extension of mangroves.

This was not always so, as mangroves were cleared in the past to provide firewood or even construction material for huts.

Today, the Ministry of Agriculture and the State are fully committed to extending the cultivation of mangroves throughout the coastlands and, over the last three years, the budgetary allocations to this sector have increased by over 200% since it is realised that the combination of the manmade sea defences with the natural mangroves would give greater security to the population from flooding.

Additionally, engineers and environmentalists have always welcomed mangroves as ameliorating Climate

Change and its deleterious effects.

The launching of the Mangrove Conservation and Information Centre will provide a management action network which will continue to educate the population on the importance of Mangroves and the necessity of preserving them, providing a research centre where knowledge of mangroves could be advanced and disseminated and seek to integrate them into the landscape so that their natural

regeneration is regarded as a norm as is being done with the mangroves growing on the rising mud banks along parts of the Georgetown sea wall.

Mangroves are, therefore, a financial asset, a milieu for the maintenance of valuable biodiversity, an environmental factor helping to control climate change, and a resistance to flooding and erosion by the sea.

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Just some of the plants surround Anna’s Cottage home

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Cottage...

FROM PAGE V

plant.” Anna and her family, many of whom are spread out across the community, have no dire needs or intentions of leaving Cottage.

Throughout the years, Anna says that Cottage has seen some change. The community has seen the introduction of a few new streets and is slated to benefit from a few more infrastructural upgrades. Apart from that, however, Anna says that Cottage does not need much else. She explained that almost every community member, regardless of their nine-to-five jobs, still engages in agriculture to remain somewhat self-reliant. Anna shared, “Everybody’s backyard has a garden, cattle rearing, and some fruit trees. We do buy eggs or buy greens.”

Cottage is a community that has withstood the tests of time. The people of the community mirror its reliance on humility and understanding. There are very few communities around Guyana where not only has the authentic lifestyle been kept in practice, but it is also praised. The people of Cottage praise their community as the perfect place to call home, as they consider Cottage a little piece of paradise.

TOO YOUNG TO DIE...

FROM PAGE XII

money could pay for her child’s life.

He pleaded her, “Please take this. I know it cannot compensate for your loss, and I will give you monthly cash support for two years to help you build your lives.”

Her mother couldn’t stop crying and asked, somewhat puzzled, “You were not charged for her death, so why are you doing this?”

He looked at Sandhya standing there and said, “Let’s just say my conscience was haunting me, and I figured this was the right thing to do.”

Soberly, her mother accepted his offer and said unmoved, “It’s good to know you have a conscience.”

The man smiled wryly and nodded.

Princess barked and wagged her tail, and her mother looking at the dog, realised her daughter’s soul was still there.

“Sandhya,” she whispered, “You didn’t leave me, you made sure we were taken care of before you left.”

Sandhya smiled, “Yes, Ma, I have to go now. The angels have been waiting.”

She hugged Princess and said, “Now you’ll take care of the family and I’ll see you in Heaven someday.”

The little dog whimpered sadly as the young girl slowly walked away.

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What actually requires ...

FROM PAGE XIX

2. Important but not Urgent We always tend to believe that because something is important, it needs our attention right away; that’s incorrect and a recipe for unnecessary stress. These are typically personal and professional goals that you want to achieve, which are high on the needs list but do not necessarily need to happen today.

For example, suppose you want to get a proposal out for funding for a passion project and using all time and energy to get it done by the end of the day on Friday. In that case, it is unnecessary stress as most people do not check their emails over the weekend, so a Monday morning submission is also okay and does not take away from the importance of the work.

3. Urgent but not Important These are usually simpler tasks that can prevent you from achieving your goals, and it is typically recommended to reschedule or delegate these. These also typically involve other people. An example is if someone asks me to proofread a report or help them with a project. It may be urgent to them, but it is not directly important to us, not enough to get in the way of what is urgent and important to us. It’s okay to put yourself first; people grow and build self-confidence when they are forced to solve issues on their own.

4. Neither Urgent nor Important These are literally just distractions disguised as any of the above, and there are so many examples. I used to believe that keeping up with social media trends, attending obligatory events that served no purpose or knowing how to do certain things that other people found entertaining were important; they aren’t and can and should be avoided completely.

It may seem overwhelming to categorise all things correctly, but the only things to keep in mind are to do it with intention and prioritise what is important for your own time so that other people cannot steal that time and energy from you for things that seem urgent and important to them.

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A passion for ...

FROM PAGE II

Scott recalled being a dance teacher and a youth advocate who also promoted the Vergenoegen Pageant for two years before she studied cosmetology, among other things.

Scott had her own small business as a cosmetologist for nine years and was about to launch her skincare and hair products line when COVID-19 happened. However, she was forced to close her shop.

It was then she applied for the nursing aid position with the COVID-19 team in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). At first, she did not like it, but as time passed, she was placed at WDRH, and after being introduced to the various departments, she grew to love the job.

It has been four years since she became a nurse and she has learned a lot, having been exposed to The hair oil treatment medical practice in all forms.

“It was challenging at first because of the pandemic, which was unprecedented, that was new, something we never experienced before…but I learned gradually and became involved in all sections of the hospital, and now I am enjoying it,” she said.

Scott told the Pepperpot Magazine that helping others is indeed a joy because seeing patients fully recover is extraordinary, knowing that she was part of the process.

She related that cosmetology is still her passion, and she is working on the labels to release her essential hair oil treatment made from local herbs, spices, and face cream. Scott added that she is also developing her own face, body scrub, soap, and hair moisturiser.

She pointed out that she had invested much time, research and effort into the homemade project to launch her own hair, skin and body products.

Eartha Scott photos saved in a folder in Photography as Eartha Scott in January 30, 2024.

Captions: 1

Eartha Scott

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THOUGHT FOR

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

TODAY

Work expand time available fosr so as to fill the it C. NORTHCOTsEcompletion.

SON (1909-1993) PARKINLaw (1958), I, openParkinson’s ing words

February 04, 2024 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome dear friend.

Today we again address the reading of advertisements.

To interpret them well requires your ability to think critically, analyse information effectively, form a judgment, make inferences, and recognise the writer’s appeal. Advertisements are often a paid form of communication which presents information to people generally, and targets clearly defined audiences.

They inform, remind, and persuade; promote and create a consistent brand image; and use rational and emotional appeals among other marketing elements. Be wise.

Love you.

IMPROVING READING Distinguishing between fact and opinion in a passage Fact: A fact is a statement that a reader can test, prove, or check for how accurate it is. He can use objective evidence to determine its trueness or falseness.

For instance, when a reader sets out to look for objective evidence in any statement or fact about the quality of a product or service, he must make observations, measurements or tests that can be fully verified. Evidence can be looked for in terms of specific quality requirements or characteristics of the product or service.

Opinion: An opinion is a statement of a feeling, an attitude, a value judgement, or a belief of someone who personally expresses his/her thoughts or feelings about an issue. It is a statement that is neither true nor false for it is expressed connected to what the person sees relative to his location and how he/she sees or views things.

Read the following short paragraph and answer questions based on fact and opinion.

In 1870, nearly two million women and girls, or one in every eight females over the age of ten, worked outside the home. Women worked in each of the 338 occupations listed in the U.S. census.

Modern Americans don’t understand this statistic. All Americans believed that, for women, careers and married life did not mix, and so many of these working women were single. However, this was an incorrect idea. Over the past few decades, a rising proportion of married women would also go to work.

1. The first sentence in the paragraph is a(n) (A) opinion; (B) opinion supported by facts; (C) fact; (D) cited fact.

2. One statement that is clearly an overgeneralization is (A) one in every eight females over the age of ten …

(B) a rising proportion of married women would go to work.

(C) All Americans believed that, for women, careers and mar-

ried life did not mix …

(D) Women worked in each of the 338 occupations listed in the U.S. census.

3. Which of the following questions should be asked about the passage to help distinguish fact from opinion?

(A) What is the author’s purpose?

(B) What was the total female population in 1870?

(C) How do these attitudes compare to current attitudes?

(D) How did married women workers feel about their careers?

4. In the sentence “All Americans believed that, for women, careers and married life did not mix, …”

(A) ‘believed’ is a clue that this is an opinion.

(B) ‘and so’ is a clue that this is a fact.

(C) ‘All Americans’ is a clue that that this is an overgeneralization.

(D) ‘careers and married life’ is a clue that this is an opinion supported by facts.

5. The facts in this passage (A) could be verified by checking source documents.

(B) could not be verified by checking web sites.

(C) could not be verified without an expert.

(D) could not be verified without the author’s research.

IMPROVING SENTENCE MEANING Looking at clarity of meaning in a sentence Clarity in a sentence: Clarity in the written word refers to how the writer expresses himself and his message. What he says must be clear and concise and exactly what he intends his readers to grasp.

Clear writing communicates ideas effectively, without any ambiguity or confusion. It involves using plain language directly fitting the occasion and avoiding jargon that might be unfamiliar to the reader. The reader should at least be able to grasp the nearest in meaning to the writer’s original expression.

Directions: Each sentence in the section below is followed by four alternative sentences. Choose the one nearest in meaning to the original sentence.

1. Although you have the right to dissent, you have to be careful you do not disregard the established rules and regulations, or you may be expelled.

(A) You will be expelled whenever you show disregard for established rules and regulations, although you are right to dissent.

(B) When you dissent and show disregard for established rules and regulations, you may be expelled.

(C) Showing disregard for established rules and regulations when you dissent will cause you to be expelled.

(D) You can disagree, but you have to be cautious not to flout established rules and regulations or it may bring about your expulsion.

2. You have become tardy in your preparations for your examination during the last two months, so you must burn your candle at both ends during this week if you want to succeed.

(A) Since you have not done enough preparations for your examination during the last two months, this week you must work doubly hard if you want to succeed.

(B) During this week if you want to succeed you must burn two candles in preparing for your examination, since you were tardy during the last two months.

(C) If you want to pass your examination during this week, you must work doubly hard, since you were tardy during the last two months.

(D) If the candles are not burnt at both ends, as you prepare for your examinations this week, you will fail because you became tardy during the last two months.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024

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Drooling while asleep

MANY persons, after waking, find that their pillow has a wet patch of saliva. Sometimes, the corners of their mouth have white deposits from dried saliva.

The condition of dribbling, or what Americans call drooling, is often an embarrassing one. What can one do about it if it is found to be a problem?

There are several groups of persons who suffer from the effects of chronic dribbling. The worst are those who dribble when awake and alert. These patients have neuromuscular control disorders that result in poor coordination of the swallowing mechanism. Generally, they suffer from cerebral palsy, mental retardation, cerebrovascular accidents (stroke) or Parkinson’s disease.

Patients with chronic dribbling are affected both psychologically and physically. The social stigma of dribbling can have a profoundly negative psychological impact, especially in those patients with continuously wet clothing who must wear bibs or towels around their necks in public. There is also an economic impact. The patient, guardian, or nursing home requires additional personnel and time to manage the additional clothing changes and medical problems that arise. Chronic dribbling causes loss of fluids, electrolytes (charged particles), proteins, and alterations in the skin around the mouth. The chronically moist skin may result in hygiene problems, excoriation and infection.

The great majority of persons who dribble do so when asleep. The salivary glands never really cease to secrete saliva. When we are awake, we swallow the small amount of saliva constantly secreted without being conscious of this action. But when asleep, the reflex action of swallowing does not always function effectively, so the saliva escapes from the partially opened mouth.

Three main factors are involved in the mechanism of dribbling in normal individuals. In the first place, the position of the head plays an important role. If in the horizontal position of slumber, the nose is located on the same level or below the upper surface of the neck, the person may dribble. The muscular tone of the lips also contributes to dribbling. Smokers tend not to dribble because of the muscles of their lips and, from the habit, increase in tonicity, so the lips remain closed while asleep.

Then, there are some whose salivary glands are naturally hyperactive. In fact, every exocrine gland in the body exhibits excess secretion. These people also perspire more, cry with copious tears, ejaculate more semen than usual, et cetera. Any drug used here for the dribbling would suppress all these excessive secretions.

Unless dribbling constitutes a critical problem, an attempt should not be made to use medication or other means of treatment. In such mild cases the individual may modify the position of his head on the pillow as described. Where the condition is moderate to severe, the drug atropine or atropine-like medication may be used. Radiation therapy of more than 6,000 rads on the sides of the face may be used to control dribbling. There are several surgical alternatives. Ligation of the parotid ducts alone or in combination with excision of the submandibular glands has been employed with success.

This procedure removes the contribution of most major salivary glands, leaving only the sublingual and minor salivary glands for saliva production. Another approach includes rerouting the ducts of the parotid gland to the tonsillar fossa. This means that the saliva emerges deeper into the mouth and is forced to flow down the throat.

Drugs taken for mental depression can cause dribbling as well as persons suffering from mercury poisoning, most of whom are gold miners.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, February 04, 2024