Guyana Chronicle Papperpot E-Paper 21-01-2024 by Guyana Chronicle

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Commitment, drive and professionalism are what it takes to succeed Local saxophonist aiming for the stars

Saxophonist Roy Stewart (Photo compliments of Roy Stewart)

Sunday, January 21, 2024

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Local humanitarian committed to making her mark in society via volunteerism

MYRLENE Cave, an enthusiastic community-based volunteer, dedicates a lot of her time to capacity building for the youths and children of Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara. She is a member of the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club, located in the compound of the school canteen in Mocha. Cave related that the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club was established on November 14, 2014 with 105 participants, who comprised children and youths from the village. It was a Guyana Police Force (GPF) initiative to foster better public and law enforcement relations.

Craft pieces, all hand-made from recycled materials done be Myrlene Cave

However, over the years,

some of the youths grew out

of the Club, while others left. But today, they have about 45 regular members from ages five to 17 years old, all locals from the community. The community volunteer told the Pepperpot Magazine that they share the canteen space for the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club, and have a series of capacity-building projects for the participants. Cave related that she

would teach craft by recycling bottles, bowls and tins, and transforming them into beautiful keepsakes like bands, necklaces and beaded jewels which are often sold or kept for decorations. The Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club will resume their regular programme for 2024 this Saturday from 10:00hrs to 14:00hrs, as their last meeting was their Christmas get-together for 2023, Cave

Participants of the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club

Community volunteer, Myrlene Cave

said. The community volunteer pointed out that part of the club’s programme entails indoor and outdoor games, craft-making, sewing, lectures and Bible classes. Cave added that community work as a volunteer is very challenging, and the club often needs assistance in many ways to keep its doors open and remain functional. She stated that partnership is the way to go, and they have since collaborated with the Guyanese Canadian-based group named Community for Hope. They are assisting in the Bible classes aspect with documentaries and general Bible teaching. Cave reported that she and two villagers are part of the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club, and serve as liaison persons. The others are Annie Baker and Saskia Liverpool. Baker is very versed in the Culture aspect of the programme. “Without these two ladies, it would be very difficult for me alone to do it all; managing a youth club takes a lot, and requires joint partnerships to be successful,” she said. The mother of 11 told the Pepperpot Magazine that she has eight boys and three girls, and has been a part of community-based work for many years. “When my children were small and attended the Mocha Arcadia Primary School, I hosted a hot-meal project for the children, and I also served as the President of the Parent/Teacher’s Association (PTA),” she said. SEE PAGE XXVI

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

A musician in the making One Guyanese artiste shares how he is pursuing his passion of helping others

By Shaniya Harding WHETHER it is strumming soulful cords on guitar, creating infectious beats on the bass or striking up Mozart and Beethoven on the piano, Danny Dazell seems to have rhythm,

has dedicated himself to the art. After finding himself in music, he has now turned to helping others develop what musical skills they may have embedded within them. With the simple touch of the piano key, Danny can create immersive melodic tunes. And

Danny Dazell

melodies and music flowing through his fingertips. Raised in church as the son of a pastor, Danny’s music comes from a place deep within him. Daring to see music as more than a pasttime and pushing the boundaries of Gospel Music, Danny

he wishes to teach others to do the same. The Pepperpot Magazine sat down with the inspirational young man during a visit to his hometown of Sisters Village. He sat down with us at his father’s church, where he

shared the challenges he has faced in pursuing his passion. Brought up on the West Bank of Demerara, Danny spent his childhood in Sisters Village before his family settled in Patentia. He comes from a family strong in religion and endowed with an extraordinary sense of kinship and genuine togetherness. As rich as the family was spiritually, Danny expressed that he and his siblings were no strangers to difficult financial situations. Being brought up among family, however, made a great impression on Danny. He expressed that although new school terms did not see him with new supplies like his peers, the time spent with his family made his childhood as special as it was. “We grew up renting a house. My mother never used to work, and my father worked at the Wales Sugar Estate. Honestly, it was not a bad childhood. We had cousins living in the area. I grew up having fun with my friends and family, but if I was to look at it from the point of luxury, we did not have it,” Danny said. It is often said that destiny chooses us long before we have a choice. This certainly seems to be the case for Danny. The church he was brought up in once boasted a full band of notable musicians from all around Guyana. After some time, however, the church group disbanded, and left the service to be carried on by the choir’s voices. Danny’s father, the new pastor at the time, took up the mantle in an attempt to reignite the fire within his congregation by learning to play the keyboard.

Danny playing one of his pieces on his keyboard

Twenty-eight-yearold Danny Dazell on a mission of opening a music school (Samuel Maughn photos)

Then, ten-year-old Danny began playing the keyboard at his father’s request. He admitted that initially, he was reluctant and a bit opposed to the idea. But more than 18 years later, Danny has found solace in music. Danny recalled the first song he played on the piano and the moment that would set a spark that has kept on burning. “I remember a day I went home, and I sat at the piano. The piano has built-in music in it. I recall it was around Christmas time, and I remember playing ‘Joy to the World’, and I developed an interest in music from there,” he said. Although inspiration had set sail within a young Danny, it would take perspiration for him to become noticed and appreciated for his music. Playing among the other band members of his church, a young and inexperienced Danny did not seem to have what it takes to make music. “When I used to play, I was the back-up man, and people did not really like my music,” he said. He further recounted the moment that both broke his heart but built his determination: “During one of the church’s services, me

and the other musicians were playing. And in the middle of the service, the drummer came off the drums, plugged my keyboard out, and said I was playing nonsense.” This experience marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to developing his abilities. Looking back now, Danny’s greatest hurdle was his lack of exposure to musical training. This, of course, did not stop him, as he learnt to play by listening to songs, and amazingly recreating pieces across various genres. We often get lost listening to music, but it is unique for someone to become immersed in the music they play themselves. Yet, it is something all good musicians achieve. “The aspect that was challenging was the whole concept of allowing my hands to think independently. Even though your brain knows what you have to do and what keys you have to press, having your body follow that is what makes it difficult,” Danny shared. Danny has come from being able to play a single song as a young boy to playing music across genres. Today he can play jazz, blues, classical music and any song that

speaks to him. He has composed a few pieces over the years, and hopes to continue his work in music. Danny currently works as an air traffic controller apart from music. He does hope to move forward with his music career, but his next endeavour will be that of a music school. He shared that he drew inspiration to teach others from his own hurdles with being self-taught “A few years ago, right before the pandemic, I started a music school. I noticed that here in Guyana, music is not really emphasised, so, I embarked on starting the school, and really giving back from what I went through.” Danny founded Gifted Hands School of Music, which he had planned to launch this month (January). Danny has high hopes for his school, and has gotten a good reception. Music has long been an escape for Danny, as it has been for music lovers all around the world for centuries. Whether you play it or listen to it, music in Guyana deserves to be placed at the forefront. So, we can have more musicians and cultivate more of our own tunes as a country.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Commitment, drive and professionalism are what it takes to succeed Local saxophonist aiming for the stars

ROY Stewart has always been around music and music personalities, so it’s not difficult to imagine why he decided that a career in entertainment suits him best. Today, Roy, one of the leading saxophonists in Guyana, says his journey started in the womb. The 35-year-old, who has roots in Linden, Baracara in the Canje Creek, and Suriname, reflected how both his parents were into music, and how his mom, a singer, would sing to him since he was in the womb. His musical exposure continued in church, where he was part of the children’s choir, and then later in primary school. Coming from less fortunate circumstances, his parents were not able to

around me,” he shared in an interview with Pepperpot Magazine. Roy started to play the saxophone when he was about 18 years old. He bought a second-hand saxophone from his friend, Gordon, who was an “amazing” saxophonist. “I heard him play and asked what would be the price for one, and he said he was selling his,” Roy recalled. At this time, he was working at a café called Zuszo, washing dishes. So he’d wash and sing, he reflected. When he purchased the saxophone, though, he learned the basics of the instrument and taught himself the rest. “I practised and practised and looked at YouTube videos trying to get

Roy Stewart during a performance (Photos compliments of Roy Stewart)

With this “amazing wife” and two kids

purchase instruments for him and his siblings, nevertheless, the natural knack that they had for music sufficed. “I have younger brothers who are a guitarist and drummer, sisters who sing and play the keyboard, and my older brother is a DJ. My dad played the trumpet in the Constabulary back in the days. So music was always

better and better at playing.” Wanting to study music, this option was not available to him, but how fortunate he was to eventually be able to enroll Online in the University of the Southern Caribbean Music programme in 2020, further being exposed to various music styles. “When I was in the youth choir, I always wanted to have a lead role, but was not

Roy’s first saxophone performance

afforded the opportunity. When I played the saxophone, I was intrigued by it, and I loved it and it spoke to me, so I embraced it and I thank God that I did, because it has been a blessing to me,” Roy expressed. Currently, he is a fulltime saxophonist, playing for over 10 years now. Playing virtually worldwide, Roy is also an aspiring recording artist, having already recorded three cover albums: Miracle, Eclipse of Love, and Winds of Praise. The father of two, who also tutors part-time, has also played for multiple presidents at various functions, private sector functions, weddings and other events. “I consider myself a trendsetter. To be a saxophonist of my calibre and of my expertise, it takes discipline, commitment, dedication, passion, persistence, and consistency, so I try to adopt those principles in what I do,” Roy said. Roy believes that the commitment, drive and professionalism he invests in his art set him apart from others in the business. “I try to be very professional with what I do. I take what I do very seriously and I invest in good equipment,” he said. In the near future, he SEE PAGE XVII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

The village of Yarrowkabra A tapestry of diversity, prosperity, and leadership

Embracing Unity in Diversity THE village of Yarrowkabra embodies the rich tapestry that defines Guyana, with its diverse community living harmoniously. Yar-

people. Most of Yarrowkabra’s villagers sought out the community as a respite from the chaos of living in the thick of things. As the years passed, however, they developed a sense of community. Yarrowkabra has

or cultural similarities but by a profound love and respect for one another. Being widely revered, respected and well-known in a community is crafted for years spent there. Often, people placed as community

The Yarrowkabra Neighbourhood democratic council

Councillor and champion for change Meena Gill (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

rowkabra and neighbouring Hauraruni and Long Creek are home to diverse

cultivated a unique culture of togetherness, a collective spirit driven not by history

leaders are people of the soil, born and raised in the village. But there are very few

instances where newcomers take up the mantle of community development. Meena Gill was born and raised in the village of Dora, also along the Linden Soesdyke Highway. Today, she has emerged as a champion for change in her village of Yarrowkabra. Meena has been

Yarrowkabra’s state-of-the-art high school

tasked with being a representative for her community, as she holds the title of councilwoman with responsibilities for public relations for the village. Meena has been instrumental in implementing schools, upgrading infra-

structure and multiple collaborative efforts that have shaped the village. When she came to Yarrowkabra more than two decades ago from her family in Dora, she sought to give her children a better life than she had. Meena’s upbringing was difficult, but it equipped her with the skills, passion, and perseverance that she would later need in life. Reminiscing about her childhood as the eldest of nine, she shared, “I am the eldest of eight sisters and one brother. It was very challenging for my parents. My parents were farmers, and it was very hard because we were very poor.” Her journey from caring for her siblings at a young age to becoming a dedicated councilwoman exemplifies the resilience that defines Yarrowkabra’s leaders. The weight of responsibilities is nothing new to Meena. As the eldest, she was tasked with caring for her siblings at a very young age. In many ways, a young Meena was carrying the weight of her family. This weight is also what caused her to drop out of school. Meena shared, “I had to come out of school at 10 to take care of the smaller ones. I had to send the smaller one and take care of the baby so that my parents could go and work.” Despite the adversities, Meena would take her education into her own hands; reading and educating herself during her spare time. “When

I finished sending the smaller children to school, looking after the baby, cooking the lunch and tidying the home, I would take my books and sit and read,” said Meena. At 20, Meena took her first steps out of the village of Dora as she spent time in Georgetown. Over the course of the next several years, Meena worked various jobs until she met her now husband. “My husband and I moved here twenty-three years ago to Yarrowkabra on the Linden Soesdyke Highway,” she stated. She explained that, like anyone starting a new life, the couple had humble beginnings in Yarrowkabra. She shared that, “We started small. We have two daughters. The eldest is 22 and a teacher. The youngest is seventeen plus.” Today, Meena is proud of her family and the life she and her husband were able to give to their children. For most of her time in Yarrowkabra, Meena has occupied herself with her church and supermarket. A few years ago, however, the community felt she had a different calling and she was elected to Yarrowkabra’s council. In every corner of the world, there are traces of cultural disunity. Yarrowkabra was no different several years ago, having faced its challenges. Time, however, has seen the council putting SEE PAGE XXVI

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Discovering Yarrowkabra

By Shaniya Harding

THE community of Yarrowkabra is among the largest villages nestled along the Linden Soesdyke Highway. Like its neighbouring counterparts, Yarrowkabra was founded on farming. This perception has become embedded in the village’s reputation. Its natural beauty, however, has not been explored until Shane D’Andrade. Shane came to the village in search of crafting a simpler existence for himself and fell in love with the overflowing intrinsic beauty of Yarrowkabra. Now, almost a decade after, Shane has made his dream a reality with the founding of Savannah Tours. It started as a vision of showing the rest of the world what Yarrowkabra has to offer.His vision transformed it into a haven of intrinsic beauty. Shane came to Yarrowkabra and was captivated by the beauty that surrounded him. Coined the ‘Off-road

king’, Shane would spend his days riding through the backlands and undiscovered trails Yarrowkabra had to offer. The village of Yarrowkabra fueled his passion and drive to help others achieve this experience. “I saw a lot of potential here 10 years ago. My first daughter’s name is Savannah. It was all a dream. Everything you see now is a dream,” said Shane. Today, that dream has come to life. Shane now offers guided tours through the Savannah and private stays at his Yarrowkabra resort. Shane was born and raised in Georgetown and came to Yarrowkabra chasing a dream of seeing Guyana for all it has to offer and is now giving others that opportunity. Growing up in Georgetown, Shane’s childhood in the bustling city couldn’t diminish his love for nature. As a young man, he found himself exploring the backlands of South Ruimveldt. He shared that, “I was born and raised in South Ruim-

veldt Gardens. My childhood days there were really good. We used to play in the rice fields, ride horses and donkeys and whatever we could think about.” Shane’s appreciation for the natural world was further highlighted during his travels to other countries. In his youth, he had the opportunity to travel throughout the Caribbean, seeing other places and the emphasis that was placed on tourism and natural diversity. Shane thought of his homeland and its beauty, with far more than a few sandy beaches and waterfalls; Shane came back home with the goal of showcasing Guyana. He shared that, “I had the opportunity to travel around the islands and work. While being there I realised that these countries only have beaches, just white sand and blue water, beautiful and nice scenery. I have been riding to the Savannah since I was sixteen and just see the beauty in it.” Shane returned to Guyana and established Savan-

Shane at his Yarrowkabra home, with his pet pig.

A Hidden Gem

Owner of Savannah Tours Shane D’Andrade (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

nah Tours officially seven years ago. Founding his business in Yarrowkabra was not a difficult decision for Shane. In the decade he has lived

in the village, he has seen it develop and blossom while retaining and staying true to its untouched beauty. Over the past decade, Yarrowkabra underwent transformative changes, evolving into a community poised for tourism and development. “This is one of the communities that is poised for tourism and development,” said Shane. The community has undergone drastic changes, says Shane. The community now has more people than ever during its history, with more people flocking into the village. “This is really a wonderful community with wonderful people. We have seen a lot of development in the last couple of years, ‘’ said Shane. He cited the changes and new additions the village of Yarrowkabra has seen. The change that Yarrowkabra has experienced is significant and is something Shane hopes will continue. Yarrowkabra, to him, is far more than a place where he set up shop, but is rather his home and where he has bios a life he never thought possible. He shared that, “We have a brand-new high school with all the modern-day facilities. We have

new roads that are very vital for transportation. The sand was a very big challenge. Yarrowkabra is the place where I built my dream.” Shane and Savannah Tours promise visitors more than a trip or sightseeing across a few fields. An offroad ride through the intricate trails of Yarrowkabra and the surrounding villages offers a uniquely Guyanese experience. Every element is a testament to Shane’s vision, making a stay with Savannah Tours a truly unique and authentically Guyanese experience. Every aspect of a stay at Savannah Tours is authentic, even the cabins and lodges Shane has made himself, stating that, “Everything you see around you is something that I have built,” he said. “This is unique to me because it is something that I built personally, without getting ideas from anywhere else. I created everything from my vision.” Yarrowkabra and the experiences it has to offer are truly one of a kind. Yarrowkabra is a village unexplored and adventures crafted from a dream.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Yarrowkabra’s Serene Secrets

By Shaniya Harding

THE Soesdyke-Linden Highway is one of the most traversed pathways that runs through Guyana. It works to bridge the gap between the capital city and the mining town of Linden. Beyond the familiar highway, adorned with countless creeks and peaceful pit stops, a clandestine network of trails unfolds, carefully crafted by communities like Yarrowkabra. As one of the most wellknown villages along the highway, the name Yarrowkabra is associated with farmlands, sand roads, and blackwater creeks. The true beauty of Yarrowkabra extends far beyond a mere mile or two from the highway. The vastness of the village stretches into the backlands, interjections, and junctions that connect villages like St Cuthbert’s Mission and Long Creek. Venturing further leads to the locals’ cherished “Savannah,” a vast stretch housing flourishing ecosystems and the enchanting canopy of trees. This stretch of land is home to flourishing ecosystems of animals coupled with the captivating canopy of trees. Yarrowkabra is a petite haven concealing an enigmatic secret. In the heart of Yarrowkabra, covering a mere three miles, lies a community that has gracefully embraced

changes and witnessed infrastructural upgrades. Once synonymous with farming, the village now houses countless professions and tradesmen. One of these young men eager to improve himself and his blossoming community is the one and only Meshach Holder. Born and raised in Yarrowkabra, 22-year-old Meshach spent his childhood satisfying his adventurous spirit. A young visionary, Meshach spent his adventurous childhood exploring the trails connecting villages beyond Yarrowkabra. After long days biking through the trails connecting the villages beyond Yarrowkabra, Meshach is now working to show the rest of Guyana and hopefully the world what Yarrowkabra has to offer. Yarrowkabra’s Guiding Light

Meshach was born and raised among his four brothers in Yarrowkabra, of which he was the third. The community of Yarrowkabra has seen myriad changes over the last two decades, with the construction of various roads and the addition of schools; the village has come a long way from what Meshach knew it to be. However, the humble nature of the people and simplistic way of life has endured. As a young man, Meshach learned to ride a

motorbike, a must in a community characterised by its loam roads. Meshach and his brothers, filled with all the curiosity of youth, traversed through the trails and even created a few new ones of their own. Meshach remembers most of his childhood being consumed by exploration and sports. These activities shaped the culture of togetherness that is so strongly felt in the village. He shared that, “I was born and raised in Yarrowkabra. Back then, there used to be a lot of sports too around the village.” At an early age, Meshach began seeking jobs like his older brothers. The ambitious young man took up the task of machinery operator before he completed school. Like most things learned in life, Meshach says he did not learn to operate heavy machinery at school but rather mastered the craft through observation and hands-on learning. He shared that, “I am a mechanical operator. I did not do it in school. I watched and learned. I went to school up to form five and did not write CXC.” Despite his hurdles, Meshach has found what he wants to do with his life, something that many people fail to do. The young man who filled his days with riding off through the trees in Yar-

Yarrowkabra’s young tourism visionary, Meshach Holder (Shaniece Bamfield Photo)

rowkabra has found himself teaching others to do the same at Savannah Tours. A tourism-based service that takes visitors on exhilarating rides through the thick tunnelling vegetation and tracks of Yarrowkabra. A young Meshach has been playing a major role as a tour guide. He admitted that, at first, he saw tourism as a pastime. But over time, his love for the professional, giving others

the chance to experience Yarrowkabra in all its beauty, has made a mark on him. The young man explained that his job has taken him places and has given him experiences that he never imagined could have been found in Yarrowkabra. Meshach told the Pepperpot Magazine that, “Since I got into the tourism business, it has gotten better. I am enjoying

it, and I am getting to meet nice people. I am getting to go to different places.” As a wild and happy young man, racing down the dirt tracks of Yarrowkabra, Meshach has learned the trails of Yarrowkabra like the back of his hand. And if you ever find yourself in Yarrowkabra and seeking adventure, he would be happy to take you for a ride.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Finding Tranquillity From city lights to nature’s embrace

By Shaniya Harding AT the very pinnacle of her urban existence, Brittina was living and working as a young teacher in the capital city of Guyana. Born, raised, and schooled in Georgetown, Brittina was the definition of a city girl, thriving amidst the hustle and bustle of the town. But at her very lowest, the loss of a loved one placed her in a dark place while living in the city of lights. Brittina needed an escape and she sought solace in nature, far from the only existence

call the outskirts and rural areas home. A young Brittina, however, always seemed to take note of the constant excitement that surrounded her life in La Penitence. “I was born in Georgetown, grew up in Georgetown, and went to school around the town,” Brittina said. At what most would consider an early age, Brittina began pursuing various careers whilst furthering her academic endeavours. After not being out of school for too long herself, a young and passionate Brittina found what she believed was her

Brittina’s Yarrowkabra home, surrounded by nature (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)

Brittina and her youngest son, Marcus

she had ever known. Many judged and ridiculed her bold decision to move off the grid. But Brittina says her move to the village of Yarrowkabra was among the few decisions she made for herself, and it was definitely for the best. A change of Pace Those living in Georgetown may often forget to notice the fast-paced and seemingly intense life they live compared to those who

true calling: child care. “I continued studying and graduated as the best childcare student.” She shared. The mother of three spent almost a decade educating children at numerous schools nationwide. Brittina’s life-altering decisions of leaving the teaching world and leaving the world she knew behind go hand in hand. The majority of Brittina’s upbringing was spent with her mother, and as an adult, she still

sought solace in the woman who was her role model. She would turn to her mother for far more than advice. Brittina says she was solely dependent on her mother for the majority of her adult life. This is perhaps why the sting of her mother’s loss affected Brittina the way it did. For many, losing a loved one, particularly a mother, is a time consumed by immense grief. For Brittina, whose bond with her mother was SEE PAGE XIV

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Cultural development supplements economic and social developments WHEN the Government of Guyana came to office in 2020, it embarked upon a programme of economic and social reform and development with a pauseless energy, which astonished many. Soon, it was realised that the government did not have to spend time planning, as they were acting on their electoral Manifesto’s programmes, where planning had already been done. The electoral agendas of all political parties tend to be heavily economic and social, and the government’s programmes reflect this pattern. Though there was a Ministry of Culture, its programmes and activities were not as vibrant and as wide as those tasked with economic and social activity. Economic and social developmental activities are widely reported daily, but cultural activity seems largely confined to sport. The country’s road system is being revolutionised. Old roads are being broadened and connected to other roads, and new roads connecting the hinterland with the coast are being built. The connectivity of the country allows for the easier movement of people and goods. The ferry boats have been improved and increased in number. Hydropower and solar power schemes are being built mostly in the interior regions, thereby enhancing the quality of life by providing electricity and equipment such as computers and televisions, which depend on electrical supply, and several homes were lit by fairy lights at Christmas for the first time. The Gas-to-Shore project is steadily progressing, bringing consumers cheaper electricity, and stimulating industrial development. Mining industries, particularly gold and diamonds and stone and sand quarrying, have progressed exponentially. Agricultural development, led by Minister of Ag-

riculture Zulfikar Mustapha, is going through a veritable revolution. Traditional industries such as sugar, rice and coconuts have been increasing production, and new industries such as corn and soya have begun production. And experimental crops such as tropical wheat and millet have been successfully grown. Sheep and cattle breeds have been improved, with the importation of the best foreign breeds. Fish farms and deep- sea fishing have been progressing apace, and exports of agricultural production are growing. In education, new schools are being built in remote parts of the country. Various grants are being made to schoolchildren, and schools are being equipped with modern equipment. In health, new state-of-the-art hospitals are being built in various regions of the country, and training programmes to upgrade medical skills are ongoing. Now that economic and social development has entered a self-sustaining phase, President Ali has announced that his government will embark upon a programme of cultural development and advancement. VALUE CREATION OF CULTURE AND ART Recently, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in speaking of this area of governance, remarked: “When we understand the value creation of culture and art, it becomes a more potent tool in advancing society and investing in it. Culture and art are important parts of our society. For instance, we cannot operate a tourism sector without culture and art; we cannot build the history of our country and tell its story and bring our people together without culture and art.” In beginning to materialise this vision, in 2023, the National Assembly approved an allocation of some $ 4.3 billion to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

In sports, the facilities all over the country are being upgraded, and several coaches have been engaged, and this has resulted in Guyanese contestants winning medals, as in the recent Pan American Games. Guyana was well-known in the Caribbean as producing boxers who successfully competed in world matches. Of recent years, boxing fell into quiescence; now, this sport is being resuscitated. In non-athletic sports such as badminton and chess, Guyanese contestants have been doing well. The President recently spoke of his government’s plan to allocate funds to create a museum and an art gallery. He was likely thinking along the lines of the famous museums and art galleries in the world, such as the British Museum and the Louvre or Tate galleries. Since most Guyanese who have capabilities in these fields now live abroad, intensive training in these areas will have to be embarked upon. Other areas of cultural development include writing and literature archives, the performing arts, filmmaking, music and dance. In the recent past, there were strong nuclei of all these cultural activities awaiting growth and development, but for one reason or another, they have been weakened or have become extinguished. We will briefly examine three of these: Music, dance and the theatre. VIBRANT MUSIC AND THEATRE SCENE In the past, Guyana had a vibrant musical culture. There were many music teachers, and several schools did the Royal College of Music examinations. Similarly, when the Indian Cultural Centre was established some decades ago, sizable numbers of students enrolled in music and dance classes. Musical instruments such SEE PAGE XVIII

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Remaining thankful I HAVE had a remarkable start to my year, and it keeps improving. I must thank Tower Suites for another profound partnership, and my assistant, Tammy, for the tireless hours she dedicated to this event. My friend, Phillipa Morrish, thank you for sharing her journey and manifesting her vision through the years. Kris Sundar, his son and Dinley were males who benefitted, and were encouraging more males to join us. The Vision Board Party was phenomenal, and a blessing to many. I am sharing the experiences of some of the attendees: “It takes someone with a vision of the possibilities to attain new levels of experience; someone with the courage to live his dreams.” --Les Brown The feedback gives me even more fuel for my journey, and you will understand why when you read below.

These intentional people did not only create a physical vision, but also a mental movie of their lives. That evening, after prayer and before drifting off to sleep, I replied to those people about the priceless moments I was privileged to have with others. I saw each face and heard the stories. I saw the genuine hugs and reassuring smiles with the message: I got you, sister. “The Vision Board Party was an extraordinary and life-changing event. Engaging in the creative activity was not only enjoyable, but also incredibly insightful. The testimonials and personal experiences shared by fellow participants added a profound layer to the event, making it a unique and inspiring gathering. The atmosphere was charged with positive energy, and the sense of community created a supportive environment. I left with a renewed sense of purpose and a visually represented vision for my future. This experience is, undoubtedly, worth recommending to anyone seeking personal growth and connection. A fantastic and memorable event that I’m grateful to have been a part of!” --Ms. Lawrence “My experience at Vision Board 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary: Sitting in a room full with intentional women, with each of us holding a distinct vision while all on a path to unbecoming what we are not and becoming our highest possible self. Each of us bore witness to their hardship, tenacity, suffering, and trust that everything is already working out for the best. “I went to the Vision Board Party with the intention of

creating a vision for this year, but I came away from it with much more than that. I saw the beauty in being vulnerable, made relationships with like-minded people, felt hopeful about the journey ahead, and was inspired to continue pursuing all of my dreams.” --Anastacia Walls. “Thank you for facilitating one of the most remarkable, reflective, and thought-pro-

voking experiences: Vision Board Party 2024. This event, held at the beginning of the year, is timely, and sets the stage for personal growth and success. “The vicissitudes of life with overwhelming distractions often derail our best intentions, and disrupt our momentum to achieve significant milestones. SEE PAGE XVI

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WHEN THE SKY TURNS PINK IT was a damp morning, and the little girl stood in the garden in the light rain, her face raised to the heavens. There was a deep ache in her little heart, and, plucking a white rose, she lifted it up to the sky and said, “For you, Mommy. Happy Birthday.” Today would have been her mother’s birthday, but she was not in this life anymore. She was gone; gone just like the wind blows. The little girl sank down on her knees in the wet grass and cried softly, “I miss you, Mommy. How do I see you again?” Those sentiments played over and over in the child’s mind since that sad day when she had looked at her mother lying in a deep sleep, no laughter dancing anymore in her closed eyes; no smile on her pale lips. Tragedy untold; a cocktail of shock and grief. At six, she had been too young to understand how or why this had happened. Images of the mother in happier times and sad times, sleeping with her and awakening with her. Today, there was a birthday cake, ice cream and candies, but for who? “Is mommy coming back from heaven today?” she asked her grandmother. “No, baby.” “Then who is the birthday cake for?” Her grandmother did not answer for a while, then said, “It’s for you to remember her by.” “Oh,” the little girl expressed, not sure she understood, and sat quietly in her playroom. “Marissa, would you like some ice cream?” her grandmother called. “No, thank you,” she answered politely. “It’s your favourite, come on, today—” “Is not a happy day,” the child interrupted her.

Her father came downstairs, handsomely dressed for the day, not a hint of grief on his face, as though today was just a regular day. “How could he not miss her?” was the thought in the child’s mind. “The child is hardly eating,” his mother complained to him. “Marissa,” her father called out to her. “Yes, daddy,” she answered without looking at him. “Eat your ice-cream, it’s your mom’s birthday.” The child stood up and took the ice-cream, eating a spoonful before putting it down. “It does not take delicious anymore, daddy, because my mommy is not here.” She watched to see if there was any regret on his face but saw none and walked out to the garden, sitting down on the swing, trying not to cry again. It had stopped raining and as she sat there alone in the quiet of the garden, she seemed to hear a soft voice call her name. “Marissa.” It was a voice she would recognize anywhere and she jumped off the swing, looking around but saw no one, yet she could feel her mother’s presence. “Mommy,” she called softly. “Look up into the sky,” the soft voice said. Marissa looked up and gasped in wonder, for the sky had magically turned pink. “When I’m close to you, the sky will turn pink.” She felt a soft touch, like a light kiss on her cheek. “Don’t cry, my baby.” Marissa inhaled deeply, happiness flowing in her little heart for the first time since her mother died. She smiled, tears of joy in her eyes.

She stayed in the garden until the pink faded from the sky and went back in the house, truly happy her mother would be around for her. Her father was in the sitting room and he looked up as she came in. “Are you okay now?” “Yes,” she answered cheerily, “my mommy came to see me.” She sat down at the dining table and ate heartily the special lunch that had been prepared as the father and his mother exchanged surprised glances. “That’s good to know,” the father said, knowing he couldn’t doubt a child whose mind was filled with innocence. Marissa watched him drive away later, knowing it would be late when he returned and those were the nights when she would be awoken by his angry voice and her mother’s cries. Often she saw the bruises on her face and though there was unhappiness in her eyes, the mother always smiled for the child. Eight years had gone by since that day in the garden. As the little girl grew up, her intelligent mind promised a good future. On special occasions in her life, she would see the sky turn pink, which gave her the strength and determination to work diligently and successfully towards her goals. She joined several sports clubs to stay fit, which helped build her strength and confidence. “I must not be weak,” she told herself, “So I don’t suffer at the hands of any man and die like my mother.” Her father did not play much of a role in her life, but every morning when she came down for breakfast, he would greet her, “How’s my princess?” “Not good,” she anSEE PAGE XXVII

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The Arts and its impact on our perceptions --from past, present to future

THE earliest evidence of human awareness of respect for illustrators reaches into the prehistoric era. I’ve covered this before, so I’ll just indicate the archaeological timeline, and the locations for interested readers who wish to explore. We know that the Sahara was not always a desert, but essentially a terrain of plant, animal, and human occupation common to other human-inhabited realms of Africa beyond five thousand years BC. Similar artworks were also documented in the Chauvet Cave in southeastern France. We have documented our life from the earliest awakenings through art, thus separating our species from other primates towards the quest of the symbolic, and interpreting a cosmic understanding of ‘being’. But Mankind, from its inception, was never without the gift to improvise. We have always been engaged in the search for interpretations of the human desire to find the origins of self, and answer the simple social meaning of the environment. Ancient Man was always compelled to engage, understand and master through observations in his search for food. We have always wanted to come to terms with the reality of creating the concept of the ‘Tribe’, or being defenceless against the predators of greater strength that found Man a pleasing meal. The walls of his dwellings became the blackboard to provide the portraits of Man’s environment, so the tribe may identify their enemies who preyed upon them, and the things that Man preyed upon. Slowly, the early Art told the story of dance, costume, and Gods and acquired concepts of astronomy and the seasons. All this, no doubt, over millennia. As far as we understand, Art became the pretext of religion; the medium of religious definitions and sacred iconography. Outside of the dispositions of Mother Nature, Mankind had become aware and creative beings capable of architecture, designing weapons and tools to master the seasons and agriculture. All this was executed and recorded with Art. MANIFESTATIONS OF EGOMANIA Man is a dynamic creature, and as priests and kings emerged, so did the manifestations of egomania and the twisted inner nature of deception. Towards the aims of this craft, Art was employed as what we now address as ‘propaganda’. This did not begin in the 1800s, but in the Ancient World, with the murals and frescos that depicted victories by kings that never happened. There were works that depicted the sacredness of leaders that were represented in the welcoming presence of Gods to exalt their legitimacy. But its greatest impact has been against nations that have failed to tell their stories, and have had them reconceptualised and retold by others. The Age of Colonisation is the most effective area of study for any serious graphic illustrator. One of the facts to bear in mind is that most of the propaganda from the 1800s to 1990s came from commercial companies that had to deal with populations that were bigots across several planes, thus, income was at play. To take into consideration our own late Rudy Seymour, who, when I asked him why he had identified ‘Big Mama’ as Satan in his comics back then, replied that in colonial Guyana, anything that competed and contradicted the Churches in his field “was not good for business”. I was not amazed by his response; we were a colony back then. I came to understand what that meant later when I matured as a writer/illustrator, and had my own experiences in an independent Guyana a generation later.

I had or obtained a propaganda comic book as a child that some political party gave out at the time. It featured the ills of Communism. It wasn’t mine, but its comic book layout attracted me. I was about seven years old, and didn’t understand much of it. When the Russians were here, a lifetime later, I had read about the Battle of Stalingrad, and I approached one of their embassy people who came to the Chronicle regularly. I’d harboured the idea of doing a graphic edition on that struggle, but he said that it was too sacred to be in a comic book. I recognised that he had no idea of the effects of that area of ‘psychological operations’, and I dropped the issue and took my business elsewhere into my local world. I have a script on WWII and its impact on the old colonial world. It’s a script that Denis Williams had advised me to take the next 20 years before attempting its development, because all that I then knew were skits from Hollywood. He’s gone now, but he was damn right.

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Finding Tranquillity... FROM PAGE IX

unlike any other, the loss of her mother affected her mental state as well, placing her into what she describes as a state of depression. “She passed away when my eldest daughter was just six months old. That was when reality really kicked in like it was thrown in my face: it was time to live,” Brittina said during her interview with Pepperpot Magazine. She further went on to state that during this time, she felt bombarded with all of life’s struggles and her rock, her mother, was no longer around. “Before she passed, it was like mommy this, and mommy that, but mommy was not here anymore. So, I

had to paddle my canoe on my own and that was when life’s challenges started. I had nobody to confide in.” For her, the decision to move was about achieving a mindset shift and embracing significant change for the sake of inner peace. This series of occurrences was the first step in what led Brittina to Yarrowkabra. She said she had reached her breaking point, which changed her perceptions and beliefs on life. Beliefs that she still holds firm today. To a young Brittina, it felt like restarting her life, only this time it was going to be a bit different. She shared, “I started to see life differently. I had low self-esteem at that point and I had to pick myself back up. It was like I had to start living.” Hitting the restart button

Baby Marcus who will be raised in Yarrowkabra

was difficult, but it was necessary nonetheless. Brittin had a new mindset and needed a fresh beginning. She sought to leave the noise of the city behind when she moved to Yarrowkabra more than a year ago. However short, the time she spent in the community reshaped her thinking. Being a part of the serenity that nature presents has given Brittina the space she needs to move on from the loss of her mother. She shared that being a part of the natural and the unapologetic beauty that the world offers has given her time to reflect. To see life in a different light; she stated,“Being here has shown me that there are so many things you could do for yourself. When you sit in your alone time it helps you see things from all sides and not just a one-sided basis.” Brittina and her husband built a new life in Yarrowkabra, far away from family, friends, and anything that resembled Georgetown. Brittina and her husband built their family in Yarrowkabra on a foundation of farming. The couple

farmed and shared their first harvest with the community. She stated that, “When we first came here, we started farming. We had a bora patch and we had tomatoes. My husband did most of the planting and I did the distribution.” However, challenges are woven into the beauty and serenity of living in a place like Yarrowkabra. With hot days and freezing nights surrounded by nature’s sights and sounds, Brittina says calling Yarrowkabra home can be a tough task at times. “It can be desolate sometimes. But I have learned just to sit and watch the trees move. I listen to the wind and birds and see different creatures.” Brittina’s decision to move to a place like Yarrowkabra may seem ludicrous to some, but to her, it was the only thing that would bring her what she truly needed: peace. She shared that, “It’s a real mindset. It’s a real big change, and you have to want it to have it.” Despite the challenges, Brittina emphasises that transitioning to a place like Yarrowkabra requires a genuine desire for change. Her journey reflects not just a physical relocation but a profound shift in mindset, bringing her the tranquillity she sought.

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Remaining... FROM PAGE XI While I knew what was required, for various reasons, I remained in that rut far longer than I would have liked. “The poems, testimonies, and re-

flections of some of the other participants provided an opportunity for great introspection. Also, the visualisation of some of my goals acted as the catalyst for my renewed motivation.” --Ramona

Duncan “I attended my first Vision Board session on Saturday, January 13, 2024 with Sonia Noel, and it was ‘Absolutely Awesome!’. I choose my words carefully, because ‘ab-

solutely’ means undeniably, unquestionably, unequivocally, and ‘awesome’ refers to something that leaves you in awe; changed, pondering in amazement. It was all of those things for me! I believe

every person was handpicked by the God of the Universe to be there; we all had a part to play in the inspiration and motivation needed to propel us to have an exceptional year ahead and beyond. It was the perfect stimulus to lay out my action plan and work it into manifestation, while living in the moment and enjoying the ride. Thank you sooo much, Sonia. Continue to do what you do so beautifully!” --Carlene Gill. Ms. Gill was inspired to share a poem she wrote at the gathering. The message was relevant, and everyone appreciated her kind gesture. What is the next step after having your vision sorted? Manifestion, right? After creating your vision board, the action shifts from visualisation to the active pursuit of your dreams! Here are some key steps you can take: 1: Integrate it into your routine. Place your vision board strategically: Hang it somewhere you’ll see it daily, like your bedroom, workspace, or even bathroom mirror. Frequent exposure reinforces your goals, and ignites motivation. Schedule daily or weekly “visualisation sessions”: Dedicate a few minutes to actively focus on your vision board, and ask God for guidance. Imagine yourself achieving your goals, feeling success and joy. Engage your senses in this visualisation. Use affirmations: Incorporate the written affirmations on your board into your daily affirmations practice. Repeat them aloud or silently, internalising their positive messages. 2: Break down goals into actionable steps. List out concrete steps for each goal: Your vision board shows the destination. Now map the journey. Translate your big dreams into smaller, achievable steps you can take right now. Create a plan and timeline: Define specific milestones and deadlines

for each step. This adds structure and accountability to your pursuit. Research and acquire resources: Identify tools, knowledge, or skills necessary to achieve your goals. Seek out helpful resources like books, courses, or mentorship. 3: Take consistent action. Schedule your actions: Block out time in your calendar to work on your goals, treating them like important appointments. Consistency is key to progress. Celebrate small wins: Don’t wait for the final achievement to celebrate. Recognise and reward yourself for completing each step, keeping momentum high. Adjust and adapt: Be flexible and willing to course-correct as needed. Your path may change, but your vision remains your guiding light. 4: Leverage the power of community. Share your vision: Talk to supportive friends or family, or join online communities focused on similar goals. Sharing your vision fuels accountability and opens doors to collaboration. Seek mentorship: Find someone who has achieved what you desire or possesses relevant expertise. Their guidance and advice can be invaluable on your journey. Embrace feedback: Be open to constructive criticism and feedback from your community. It can help you refine your approach and identify blind spots. If we follow these steps, we will achieve, and the vision for our lives will manifest. You must be thinking, ‘I wish I had attended that event!’ I decided to host another session at Tower Suites on Sunday, January 28, for those people who registered, paid, and had legitimate reasons for not attending. That event will allow others to join, but you need to register before the event. Whatsapp: 6848129. The visual event has been shifted to January 27, with people from many countries registered. Remember, your vision board is a tool; not a magic wand. It requires proactive effort and commitment to turn those beautiful visuals into a reality. Enjoy the process; celebrate your progress, and stay aligned with your dreams and vision as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

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With President Mohamed Irfaan Ali

Commitment, drive and professionalism ... FROM PAGE V

says he sees himself as a bonafide recording artist, recording original music, touring saxophonist, and performing on major stages. He also wants to be the producer of his own music, honing his craft and working on building his capacity. The intention is to become a global name, touring, producing, managing, and having his own record label. He offers this advice for aspiring musicians: “Commit and dedicate yourselves to god and the craft and invest heavily in what you’re doing.”

A performance with Courtney Fatlin and friends

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Cultural development supplements ... FROM PAGE X

as violins and guitars were on sale in the shops, and there were a number of skilled repairers and piano tuners. Public concerts were frequent, and for instance, every Sunday, there were Classical Concerts at the Town Hall, and Georgetown was often in the itinerary of world-famous artistes visiting South American countries. The Loncke family had even founded a Philharmonic orchestra. The same trends occurred in dance, and a School of Dance was even founded under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture. The students and graduates of this school successfully performed at public functions, both at home and abroad. The theatre also flourished in the 19th and 20th Centuries. In the villages, performances of the Ramayana in costume were usual at the various Hindu festivals. The middle and upper classes used the Assembly Rooms to perform mostly plays by famous British playwrights. From the 1920s to the end of the 1950s, ordinary folk became enthusiastically involved in the theatre. The vaudeville shows were a combination of singing, dancing, humour and a storyline of interesting current events. The scripts and actors came from areas such as Albouystown and some of the villages. Performances were given at the second-tier cinemas such as the Olympic on Lombard Street, and the Capitol, later renamed “Star” in LaPenitence Street in Albouystown. These shows were advertised in the newspapers. With the revolution in secondary education, which occurred from the 1940s for the next two decades, large numbers of children had to study English Literature, and school performances of the plays studied became a norm. These performances were well attended by parents and friends. This vibrant cultural milieu passed away when the country became enveloped in deeply divisive politics from the beginning of the 1960s. In rebuilding the cultural life of the country, both government and the population have to be involved, and this will include the schools and Educational System, resuscitating cultural institutions, tapping talent in the diaspora, recruitment of foreign expertise, and the construction of adequate buildings for national archives, art gallery, concert hall and so on.

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Chewing gum for your oral health WHAT do Trident, Icebreakers, Stride, Orbit, Pure, Mentos, Tic Tac, and Life Savers have in common? They are all chewing gum containing xylitol, which is a healthy sweetener. For centuries, it has been known that salivation contributes positively to oral hygiene by literally washing away the colonies of caries-producing germs that constantly proliferate on the tooth’s surface. Chewing gum

originated with keeping a smooth pebble in the mouth to resist bad breath. The diet, and by the pattern of its consumption by the host, play a crucial role in oral health. Its dependency on fermentable dietary carbohydrate (sugar) ingestion is beyond question. However, caries do not occur in germ-free animals, no matter what their diet, thus establishing it as a fundamental microbiological disease. Based on these facts, researchers are working consistently to identify new ways to combat tooth decay. The merits of chewing gum concerning preventing tooth decay are well-publicised. Literature and TV advertisements refer to saliva’s buffer effects on dental plaque; everyone knows that chewing gum provokes salivary flow. But there is a new mechanism whereby chewing gum helps prevent caries. That aspect has to do with the actual composition of the chewing gum. Several studies of humans have examined the effects of partial or total sugar substitution by xylitol in chewing gum. Xylitol is sweet but is not a fermentable sugar. Actually, it is chemically classified as an alcohol. As part of the famous Turku Sugar Studies, a comparison of caries experience was made among three groups of adults whose diets contained diverse foods in which fructose-substituted-for sucrose, xylitol-substituted-for sucrose, or the usual sucrose-containing foods were exclusively consumed. The results after two years, supported by various microbiological, salivary and other observations, demonstrated dramatic reduction of decay incidence, about 85 percent compared with the ordinary sugar diet. Studies clearly demonstrate the non-cariogenicity of gum with high xylitol (65 percent) content. They also suggested that such chewing gums were SEE PAGE XXXIX caries inhibitors, despite the

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EPA’s Achievements in 2023: A Year of Environmental Impact THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) remains at the forefront of sustainable environmental management, shaping decisions that balance economic development with ecological responsibility. In 2023, the Agency’s twelve dynamic departments undertook impactful endeavours, demonstrating their commitment to environmental well-being and fostering a harmonious coexistence between development and nature. 1. Communication Department: Shaping Narratives The Communication Department took centre stage, orchestrating significant events like ‘World Environment Day 2023’ and skillfully disseminating positive achievements across social media platforms, fostering public awareness and engagement. 2. Environmental Investigations: Pioneering Compliance This department, commonly known as the “complaints department,” not only diligently addressed 164 out of 282 com-

plaints received but also crafted an Environmental Guideline for Wash Bays in collaboration with NDCs. In addition, they reinvigorated the Honorary Litter Warden program in regions 1, 4, and 9. This stands as a testament to their commitment to increasing compliance. 3. Emergency Response: Aiding National Preparedness Successfully supported the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) during Tradewinds 2023, the Emergency Response team enhanced national readiness by testing the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan. Their efforts resulted in an increased number of personnel trained in Incident Command Systems and shoreline cleanup assessment techniques. 4. Oil & Gas Department: Pioneering Environmental Monitoring Executing the first phase of the Ecosystem Reference Survey Programme, the Oil & Gas Department aimed to monitor the offshore industry’s impact on the environment. The department also engaged in Compliance assistance outreaches, in collaboration with key stakeholders, targeted gas stations and fuel storage facilities, thus reinforcing regulatory adherence. 5. Forestry Department: Balancing Conservation and Utilisation Screening 126 applications, issuing 80 permits, and developing Terms of Scope for EIA logging projects, showcased the Forestry Department’s commitment to sustainable forest operations. 6. Agriculture Department: Success Stories in Compliance Completing 54 compliance inspections, investigating 47 complaints, and offering environmental compliance assistance, the Agriculture Department achieved commendable success stories, thereby aligning its efforts with the EPA’s mandate. 7. Manufacturing and Industry Department: Managing High-Risk Facilities Processing 93 applications SEE PAGE XXV for Environmental Authori-

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EPA’s Achievements in 2023... FROM PAGE XXIV

sation in the Oil & Gas and Construction sectors, this department improved compliance with the Environmental Regulations, particularly for high-risk facilities. Strengthening environmental monitoring requirements and standards showcased their public and environmental health commitment. 8. Mining Department: Strengthening compliance

With a focus on compliance inspections in mining districts, the Mining Department heightened oversight for medium and high-risk permitted mining facilities. Compliance assistance initiatives reached communities like Bartica and Karrau, contributing to responsible mining practices. 9. Multilateral Environmental Agreement (MEA) Unit: Global Participation Active participation in global projects like the Global Environmental Facility Amazon Sustainable Landscapes Phase 3 Regional Project, highlighted the Unit’s dedication. The commencement of the Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Mining Project that was delayed for two years, showcases their resilience. Supporting Pillars: MIS and GIS Departments The Management Information System (MIS) digitised the Agency’s complaints and permitting processes. Simultaneously, the GIS Department was pivotal in analysing and plotting inspections and investigations, providing

valuable insights for longterm support. As the new year unfolds, the EPA remains committed to community engagement, compliance assistance, and the execution of its work plan. The strides made in 2023 set the stage for a future where environmental

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The village of ... FROM PAGE VI

their differences aside for the greater good of their village. “It was challenging in the NDC for the last four years,” Meena shared. Fighting against the political and unrest that threatened to damage the community, the new council has taken a different approach in dealing with the issues presented to them. “When we work in the neighbourhood democratic council, we work for the people. We never worked politically in the NDC. We came together and worked together.” With Yarrowkabra’s leaders working together and leading truly by example, the community has seen countless changes. Yarrowkabra’s council hopes to foster continued growth in their community by considering their citizens and carefully allocating funds received by the committee. “We got 13 roads in Yarrowkabra. We have gotten tanks for some areas that did not have water. We have a new pump back at the pump station,” Meena shared. Yarrowkabra had certainly come a long way from the farming village on the side of the highway. Today, it is one of the region’s largest communities, with a steadily rising population. It is equipped with schools, shops, businesses and a health centre. Yarrowkabra is a pristine village that puts the values of what it means to be a community to the forefront; it is poised for greatness.

Local humanitarian committed... FROM PAGE II

Cave is a stay-at-home mother who enjoys doing craft as her favourite pastime, and with her children grown, she has the time to do the things that bring her joy, like volunteerism. She noted that in Mocha Arcadia, they would have a Market Day once a month, and she would have a stall to sell/showcase her hand-made products, all recycled baskets from tins, bottles and, bowls and other materials found in the environment. The Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia resident told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is originally from Region One (Barima-Waini) Mabaruma, and has lived in Mocha for over 40 years. The 64-year-old stated that she will be celebrating her 65th birth anniversary in May this year, and she is looking forward to it. Cave reported that she has scaled down on other community-based projects, due to COVID-19 restrictions, but she hopes things will start to take shape again soon. She stated that the Mocha Arcadia Rising Star Youth Club meets every Saturday to have regular community capacity-building sessions for children and youths. “I don’t think I can stop doing community work as a volunteer, because it is part of my life, and I like being of use to others, to assist in any way that I can,” she reasoned.

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WHEN THE SKY...

swered in a dull voice. The same question over the years, the same answer. He was sitting now beside another beautiful woman, his new wife from four years ago, and a baby son added to the family. Marissa knew she should have hated him for destroying their small family but she didn’t. All she could feel for him was pity for his weakness and arrogance. He couldn’t give her mother the love and care she deserved yet he refused to let her go. “What would you like for breakfast?” her stepmother asked. Marissa drank a glass of juice and said politely, “Nothing, thanks.” “You need to eat proper meals, Marissa,” her father stated firmly, “To be a healthy young woman.” “You don’t have to worry about me,” she said icily and turned to leave but his next words stopped her. “Is she still talking to you?” Marissa turned and looked at him in disbelief. “You actually believed that?” “I don’t know, because you don’t talk to me.” “And you deserve that for taking away the most beautiful things in my life.” She went out, slamming the door, leaving him with deep regrets on his face. She took a few deep breaths to regain her calm composure. She did not go home after school but stayed by her aunt and the next day, her father came for her. The tension was so deep that she did not speak a word to him on the way home. That night he rapped on her door and asked, “Can I speak to you in the study?” She came out of her room and went down to the study. He was waiting, not quite his casual, carefree self anymore. “I know,” he began, “that you must hate me, and I guess I deserve that. I want to say how sorry I am for all the pain and grief I must have caused you from a little girl.” Marissa smiled wryly, “And I guess sorry can take away all the grief and repair what’s broken?” “No, it can’t. But what else can I say? I can’t rewind the past to change what happened, but I can play a good role, as a father, to ensure you have a good future.” “Thanks, but I don’t really need you.” She turned to leave the room, and at the door, she turned and said with a smile, “She still talks to me.” FROM PAGE X

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THOUGHT FOR

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TODAY

Infidelit not consist in believing, oryddisobes el ie in professing to belving, it consists does not belieievvee.what one TOM PAINE (173 Age of Reason (177-1809) The 94), pt. i

January 21 2024 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, Welcome dear friend. We touch on author’s purpose once more. We have seen that it is whyhis piece ever got written at all. Does

he intend to persuade, entertain, provide information, or satirize? What kinds of details support his purpose? You may even fashion a graphic organiser to evaluate whether he has achieved his purpose. But does he always try to achieve more than one purpose? Only good solid reading can sort out thesequestions. Be wise. Love you. IMPROVING WRITING Understanding how a description is organised Reminder: Some texts – mainly descriptive – are organised so that you, the reader, may visualize the scene with some ease. Details in text can be organised in different ways such as: down-up, up-down, outside-inside, inside-outside, details-general impression, and general impression-detail. Recognising these presentations can lead the learner to approve and use some of them successfully. And can you think of other ways details can be organised in writing? Discuss them with a study partner. Here are two pieces of texts for you to read and decide which type(s) of organisation they represent. 1. The largest building, in the very centre of the town, is boarded up completely and leans so far to the right that it seems bound to collapse at any minute. The house is very old. There is about it a curious, cracked look that it is very puzzling until you suddenly realise that at one time, and long ago, the right side of the front porch had been painted, and part of the wall – but the painting was left unfinished and one portion of the house is darker and dingier than the other. The building looks completely deserted. Nevertheless, on the second floor there is one window which is not boarded; sometimes in the late afternoon when the heat is at its worst a hand will slowly open the shutter and a face will look down on the town. (From C. McCullers: “The Ballad of the Sad Café” (Penguin, 1963)) 2. The house itself was long and low, as if a London house holidaying in the country had flung itself asprawl; it had two disconnected and roomy staircases, and when it had exhausted itself completely as a house, it turned to the right and began again as rambling, empty stables, coach house, cart sheds, men’s bedrooms up ladders, and outhouses of the most various kinds. On one hand was a neglected orchard, in the front of the house was a bald, worried-looking lawn area capable of simultaneous tennis and croquet, and at the other side a copious and confused vegetable and flower

garden. (From H.G. Wells: “Marriage” (Macmillan and Co., 1912)) IMPROVING WRITING Order of importance in writing One way to arrange the details of a paragraph or several connected paragraphs is by their importance to the main idea. When you organise details in this way, you are using an order of importance.Order of importance is useful in writing expository paragraphs that inform or explain, as well as in writing persuasive paragraphs. Here are some important signal words and phrases which you would have come across at some time past: most importantly, more importantly, less importantly, least importantly; first in importance, first and foremost; second (in importance), third (in importance), next (in importance); last in importance, lastly, last but not least; the most important reason (or example); the next most important reason (or example); the next most important (or example); a less important reason (or example); the least important reason (or example). Look at this scenario. You live in one part of the country and your friend Pansy lives in another. Pansy’s family is planning a ski holiday, and has asked you to recommend a good ski hotel in your area. You decide on Snowtop Lodge. You make your recommendation in a letter to Pansy. You list the reasons for your choice in order of importance, from most important to least important to immediately make sure that Pansy realises the reasons you listed are in order of importance... Decide which signal word or phrase given somewhere above, best fits each blank space of the upcoming paragraph. (The details are listed in order of importance from the most important to least important.) I think Snowtop Lodge would be your best for your ski holiday. ----1-----, the hotel is located very close to the ski resort. -----2----, a bus leaves the hotel every half-hour for the ski area. -----3----, there are very reasonable package prices for families. -----4----, the rooms are nicely decorated, and the food is great. All in all, I can’t think of a better ski hotel in this area than Snowtop. Remember that by using an order of importance, you can arrange details in one of two ways:● from most important to least important; ● from least important to most important. POETRY Read the following part of the poem “The Companion” carefully and then answer the questions set based on what is stated or implied. Kayta was her name. She was nine. I’d no idea what I could do about her, but doubt quickly dissolved to certainty: I’d have to take this thing under my wing; 5. girls were in some sense of the word human, a human being couldn’t just be left. The droning in the air and the explosions receded farther into the distance, I touched the little girl on her elbow. 10. “Come on. Do you hear? What are you waiting for?” The world was big and we were not big, and it was tough for us to walk across it…. (With reference to World War II which lasted from 1939-1045) 1. The episode described in the poem took place after (A) a fire; (B) a train crash; (C) a volcano eruption; (D) an air-raid 2. The speaker’s impression of the girl when he decided to take her with him was that she was (A) weak; (B) unfriendly; (C) unmanageable (D) silly. 3. Paraphrase the poem told so far.

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024

Chewing gum for your... limited time and quantity and exposure of the dentition to the gum. Of course, it should be recognised that chewing gum would seem to be an ideal vehicle for delivering caries-inhibitory substances at relatively high concentrations to the surfaces of the teeth, although the quantities ingested may be very small. The factors conducive to tooth decay are remarkably localised to the surfaces of the teeth. They are plaque, its bacterial population, the acid produced from sugar in the plaque FROM PAGE XXIII

in juxtaposition to the tooth surface, and the sugar challenge to the plaque flora. Finally, certain factors should be involved with chewing gum for the sake of oral hygiene. The chewing gum must contain xylitol sweetener instead of sugar. The content of xylitol should be high, that is, over 60 percent because it is the xylitol specifically attacks the germ (strep mutans) which causes tooth decay. The gum should be chewed for at least a total of 20 minutes a day. This implies that one may chew the gum four times for five minutes during the entire day to derive the maximum effect. Now, even tooth-whitening gum is sold on the local market.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, January 21, 2024