Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot 12-11-2023

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Diwali A celebration of light, love and unity

Ashima Mohanlall represented Lakshmi on one of the floats of the previously-held Dharmic Sabha’s Diwali motorcade. In this photo, and as part of the motorcade preparations, Ashima waspractising her pose, which she eventually held for several hours during last evening’s procession (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

Sunday, November 12, 2023

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Tourism Awareness Month unveils a calendar of events --In the Discover Guyana Passport, two tour experiences are up for the winning

THE month of November is desig15, 2023. nated Tourism Awareness Month, Seecharan reported and this year’s theme is, “Cultural that the participating Tapestry: Investing in Our People, tour operator will offiEnriching Our Heritage”. For Nocially stamp a traveller’s vember, a calendar of events has been passport after payment launched by the Guyana Tourism for the tour. This is done Authority (GTA) to create tourism per person, per experiawareness. ence.

Therefore, November is the ideal She added that once time to travel locally, utilising the tour the traveller completes packages provided at a discounted cost two tours, their passoffered by the GTA via licensed tour port will be officially operators in observance of Tourism stamped, deeming them Awareness Month. eligible for the “free exAccording to GTA Destination perience/s”. However, Marketing Manager Annrie Seecharan, the two tours cannot be the idea behind this is simple: Travelthe same experience. lers will be encouraged to participate The GTA Destination in at least two experiences from any Marketing Manager told licensed participating tour operator, the Pepperpot Magaafter which they will be eligible for a zine that once they have “free travel experience/s” valued at up completed the tours, they GTA Destination Marketing Manager, to $100,000. must fill out the bio page Annrie Seecharran She related that the GTA will stand and place the passport the cost of the “free experience/s”. This into a container at the initiative will be active from November 1, 2023, to December tour operator’s location. This will facilitate a grand drawing

by the GTA before the close of the year.

She noted that the “free travel experiences” would be valid for six months after the Drawing.

Seecharran said Passports can be found at the Ministry of Tourism’s office on South Road, GTA’s office in the Sophia Exhibition Centre, THAG’s office in Waterloo Street and all the participating licensed tour operators countrywide.

Seecharran added that through discounted tourism experiences, travellers are encouraged to participate in the minimum of two tours offered by one of its 18 licensed tour operators to have at least two experiences of the 40 tour packages being offered.

Seecharan stated that 20 persons will then be randomly selected to win tour experiences valued at $100,000 from November 1 to December 15, 2023.

The Destination Marketing Manager reported that the discounted prices for tour packages start at $2,000. The prices vary depending on the packages, such as the day tour to Kaieteur Falls.

Seecharan noted that when travellers buy any two tour packages, they will be given a Discover Guyana Passport, which the tour operators will stamp, and it can be dropped off in boxes provided for the drawing at the end of December.

She noted that so far, they have had favourable responses and as the month progresses, they hope it will be fully successful.

SEE PAGE XXIV

Diwali

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

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A celebration of light, love and unity

By Shaniya Harding

THE Diwali motorcade is an exciting, colourful and vibrant display of floats decorated with lights, foam, feathers, and people beautifully dressed in their cultural wear depicting the spirit of Diwali. As a young man, Khemraj Lall was always captivated by the exquisite Diwali motorcade. But he was even more fascinated by the people behind it.

To d a y, K h e m raj is the driving force of a team that puts together the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s Motorcade. Growing up, Diwali was a celebration and experience like Christmas for him and now, he is helping bring Diwali to life.

Apart from this being his second year as the manager for the Motorcade, Kgemraj

Coordinator of the Diwali Motorcade Khemraj Lall (Delano Williams photo) is also the general secretary of the most anticipated occaof the Guyana Hindu Dhar- sions of the Diwali season. It mic Sabha’s youth group and is where men and women line has been a part of the associ- the streets to see their culture ation for close to ten years. and religion displayed with The Diwali motorcade is one bright floats that each tell a story and where many memories are made.

“Diwali makes me feel cozy, safe and warm.

The lights, the sweetmeats and the entire thing that it is all about.

It is more about family, love and togetherness,” Khemraj shared. The warmth of the lights and the love have always made Khemraj feel closer to his family and roots.

He stated that, “It comes from my fore-parents and what they taught us and the traditions from my grandma and grandadthat we kept and we still do them today. It is like I still have a part of them with me. Like, I still have them here. ” And the Motorcade is a vital part of Diwali.

Khemraj and a team of fifteen to twenty people are the players who work tirelessly to craft the Motorcade from scratch.

Most people who work on the Motorcade have Members of the Dharmic Sabha crafting jobs and obligations but the Motorcade (Shaniece Bamfield photo) dedicate their evenings

The arches that will be apart of the soon to be completed Motorcade(Shaniece Bamfield photo) Deciding on what will be “Ever since I was a kid and to building the magnificent float that will be showcased represented on the float is the I would see the Motorcade, team’s first and oftentimes I would be wowed. I would on Saturday.

“Each person is respon- biggest step. But sometimes, wonder who does that, how sible for a different aspect they just know what they can somebody make that. of the float. Whether it is want to create. “Sometimes And now here I am doing buying the material, getting you just have to look at some- what I thought was impossponsorships, reaching out thing and know that it is sible.” As a Hindu, Khemraj to sponsors, getting the hard right, creativity or no creativ- says that the work he does material or getting the floats ity, because it fits.” However, gives him a profound sense built. It is more teamwork when the finished product is of love for the simple things. than it is a one-man job. It done and ready to display, “Being able to live my life as cannot be a one-man job,” people see the lights and co- a Hindu as well as a medical lours, but what is not seen is student who can give back to Khemraj stated.

Although with more the precision it takes to put it society. Those are things that hands, the work would be together. “Sometimes, I have I find the beauty in life for,” easier, Khemraj says it is to decide if I should put an he said, The diyas, the holika, and the crew’s dedication. The arch here or there. And then long hours of designing, something may be five cen- even the Motorcade are, to welding, and painting make timetres off. This requires a Khemraj, a way of uplifting it all happen. “We have lot of math. All of the arches his tradition and religion in a good turnout, normally I hand drew. Everything is the multicultural country between 15-20 persons.” measurements and precision, of Guyana. He shared that Knemraj further stated yes, this is beautiful, but how “Dhamra in Hindi means that, “Are they here every can I make this beautiful righteousness. It is uplifting night? No. But we have the with this aspect,” Khemraj our Hinduism for society.

That is all we do. That is turnout we need. If you explained.

Perception is also some- our goal. And our motto, the have one or two dedicated individuals, nothing is im- thing the team pays attention Hindi translation, is, action to. Ensuring that every aspect thy duty, reward not thy conpossible.”

The creative aspect and of the Motorcade is seen for cern. We do it because we general idea that has to con- what it represents so that the want to.”

On Saturday evening, nect with the theme of Diwali entire exhibition can be seen is the work of Khemraj. “We for the story it aims to tell. “It the Dharmic Sabha dishave a team and we have takes a team because I may played their floats among an advisor, but I practical- look at something one way, the many others as they ly bring it all together. Of and another person looks at move from the Shri Krishcourse, my team has their it and sees something else. na Mandir on Campbell Avinput, but I have been doing And the Motorcade is not enue before heading South this for a long time,and I am only for me or two persons. towards the La Bonnne here hands-on. “ Khemraj It is for the entire Guyana,” Intention Community Censaid. The biggest underlying Kjemraj said. “We need to tre Ground. Khemraj is factor about the Motorcade see the perspective of every- encouraging all Guyanese is its ability to represent or body and ensure that what I to come out in their numconceptualisethe core ele- am looking at and seeing is bers regardless of their ments of Diwali. As Khemraj what other people out there race, religion or culture. He expressed that, Ignorance is explained, “The thing that are also seeing.”

Khemraj says doing what what fuels all the different needs to be understood about a Diwali motorcade is that it he does is a dream come true issues in society. That is no is not just getting beautiful for him. As a young man, understanding of not knowthings by putting them to- he marveled at the lights, ing each other. And when gether. It has to all resonate intricate details and designs. you bring that light through Khemraj fondly shared that, ignorance, it makes unity.” around Diwali.”

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Your Circumstances do not dictate your outcome A Guyanese doctor’s inspiring story

By Shaniya Harding Last Sunday, Guyanese medical professional Dr Keith Cummings was awarded with a certificate of merit from the New York state Assembly. This comes after many achievements in his field, various accolades for his work and countless philanthropic ventures in Guyana. But before all this, Dr Keith Cummings was just a young boy from the Corentyne. A young man from humble beginnings who had to learn to persevere.

Growing up in the Corentyne, Keith was a part of a large family that faced difficult financial circumstances. His father was a sugar cane worker and a farmer and his mother was a housewife. “Life in the village was mostly farming. A few people worked with the government. We used to fetch water.

There were no pipes. We would get water from three villages way.”

Although Keith grew up within an extended family that did offer a great deal of support, at a tender age, he had his own host of responsibilities. From tending to the family’s chickens to ensuring enough water for the family. He stated, “I used to catch fish to assist in generating funds to go to school and buy my school uniforms. At that time, we used to wear short pants at Central Corentyne High School. I would catch especially hassa. And my mother would sell the fish to assist in generating funds to go to school.” The trials he faced taught Keith responsibility and the importance of hard work.

Keith studied pharmaceuticals in Guyana before being one of the first interns sent to Grenada. He later returned to study medicine as a family physician. He stated that, “In 1994 I moved to St Kitts and Nevis and then I came to Guyana to do medicine. And I graduated in medicine in 2003. “ Life in Guyana has left a mark on Keith and the doctor he is today. He shared that, “Coming from humble beginnings has always made me feel like I have to make a contribution to the people around me and to be an example to the people around me and to my family and to keep Guyana’s flag flying.”

Keith is an associate professor of pharmacology at the University of Guyana. The university, he said, left the biggest impact in comparison to other educational institutions he attended. He considers Guyana and the University his basis and where his love, passion and work ethic really blossomed.

But there are also some things he would like to see change.

“There has to be better resources,” he stated. He went on to explain that more emphasis needs to be placed on the growing number of students in Guyana. “The problem is that you have more students but limited resources. Number one is space.

There isn’t the space for the students,” he stated.

Support, more importantly social support, is also of great

importance to Keith. He believes that communication plays an integral role in education and the university’s advancement. He stated that, “There needs to be more support for the students. More social support for the students and more networking.” He went on further, citing that, “More networking is needed with other universities so that the University of Guyana stays at a higher standard.”

University research is also another factor that Keith stressed. He stated that more research published by the university creates better standings for the institution. He said that, “And fundamentally, we have to do more research. And the more research we do, the better the country is represented because when we start to publish this research, the standard score of the university raises significantly.”

Keith has done several outreaches in Guyana around the world and has contributed to various schools and organisations. But his passion for medicine is exhibited in his on-the-ground field work. His next endeavour, he stated, is a medical mission in the rural Dr Keith Cummings and his wife at a recent award ceremony areas of Guyana.

In his practice and to his the government to do some screening of the most common patients, he stresses the importance of preventative care. He diseases.” explained that while it is easy to do operations, prevention is Coming from a home where he never knew what an always the first step that goes a long way. “The most important electrical build was to being one of the best doctors in his thing is prevention, and we have moved away a lot from pre- field, Keith embodies the true Guyanese spirit of strength. vention. So, I want to do education on prevention, “he stated. “Your circumstances do not dictate your outcome,” Keith In the near future, Keith is planning a medical mission with stated. He urged every Guyanese to build themselves and the interior of Guyana and hopes to partner with Guyana’s to become a beacon of light to others. “Always try to make government in screening. He stated that, “I want to be on yourself better. And once you try to make yourself better the ground, particularly in the rural areas and do educational you will stimulate and empower other people who may be sessions. That’s my main next move. And probably work with in a less fortunate situation,” he said.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Cheesecake in a jar, anyone?

Agro-processor making her debut in the local market with three sizes of flavoured cheesecake

“Starting out doesn’t always mean you have to go big.”Those were the exact thoughts of Anjanie Singh, who established her own small business of making cheesecakes from her home in Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.

Because of the criticisms that often come with food preparation for the publicfrom claims of people skimping on the ingredients to the need to make bigger portions - Singh did not want her business to fall under that

trying to market her products and she is managing her business on her own until she can afford to employ others.

Singh explained that after she completed high school, she wanted to work and did so part-time in her family-owned business but soon realised she wanted more, something of her own.

She eventually had the idea of cheesecake making, and after mastering the culinary skill at home, she established her own small business and her family continues to

good upbringing, she wanted to become independent and is working towards it.

Singh reasoned that keeping it simple is the way to go. She also believes that going after something that brings in an honest income is recommended because she doesn’t believe in sitting idly by while things evolve.

Being the only daughter in the family of three children, Singh stated that she always wanted to have her own business and she will achieve this goal with her

The cheesecake

category, so she decided to go a level above the rest withAnjanie’s Luscious Cheesecake.

Her goal is to have her products on the shelves of all local supermarkets, including the leading ones, and she is working towards that.

A n j a n i e ’s L u s c i o u s Cheesecake comes in three sizes, and it is the perfect balance of a creamy filling, tasty toppings and freshly crushed crackers.It is quite satisfying as a sweet snack or dessert;the cheesecake cups are available countrywide and are all no-bake and eggless.

A n j a n i e ’s L u s c i o u s Cheesecake comes in four flavours:Oreo, Strawberry, Chocolate, and Caramel.

The 21-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that her products are rich in flavour and taste, as the name suggests, and she started her small business from her home in 2022.

Being relatively new in business, she is currently

Anjanie Singh displaying her product

be her support system all the way.

“Establishing your own small business is very challenging. It takes time, effort and, money and a whole lot of planning and strategies to be successful, but once you become confident, you can do it no matter how small at first,” she said.

The self-taught businesswoman told the Pepperpot Magazine that her ultimate goal in life is to become a detective, and once she has saved up enough money, she will be pursuing that career.

Singh related that all her ingredients are sourced locally, but the jars and cups are imported and her process is unbeatable. She is hoping to expand her small business soon.

The young entrepreneur related that she came from humble beginnings and was taught the value of things at a young age, so coupled with a

family’s blessings.

She is, however, grateful for all the advice and the assistance of the Guyana Mar-

Anjanie’s Lucious Cheesecake

keting Corporation (GMC).

She attested that they guided her along the way to get registered as a small business and ensured that she met all the guidelines in licensing, labelling and packaging to be

marketed.

Singh said her small business is legitimate and she is happy about it and her product is wholesome since she is also compliant with the Government Food and Drug

Analyst Department.

“With the rising cost of living, I am still trying to deliver a quality product at an affordable price while maintaining the integrity of the product. I use social media to do all my marketing for now and so far, I have had positive responses and it is encouraging, to say the least,” she said.

Singh reported that she never thought her small business would take off like it did. But she was sure that she did all the right things, taking the right steps in becoming registered, licensed etc.

She is also very pleased to haveparticipated in the recently concluded Agri-Investment Forum and Expo where she had the opportunity to interact with many people and shared fresh ideas to propel her small business.

With her simple motto in mind, “Cheesecake makes everyone happy.

Can’t have enough” cheesecake in a jar may become the next best thing!

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Karanambu Lodge shines out

As Guyana continues to celebrate Tourism Month 2023, the Guyana Tourism Authority has highlighted one tourist destination in the Rupununi River in beautiful Guyana.

Karanambu Lodge is a small settlement found on the banks of the Rupununi River in Region 9 (UpperTakutu/Upper Essequibo).This settlement has a population of about 30 persons, according to a document received from the Guyana Tourism Authority.

“This settlement is unique simply because it is surrounded byvillages of predominantly Macushi Indians, Karanambu also includes a watershed between the Amazon and Essequibo basins, along with important spawning and breeding grounds for a host of flora and fauna,” Sadie Cameron, GTA’s Marketing and Communication Officer shared via press release.

Information about the settlement shared also revealed that Karanambuis known for its mining, logging, and wildlife hunting and is underextreme threat of increasing degradation.

About Karanambu The settlementof Karanambu was established in 1927 and, over the years, has remained a cattle ranch.

The Karanambu protected area is home to the healthiest population of Giant Anteater, providing visitors with successful sightings in over 90 percent of visits. This has inspired other nearby sites in North and Central Rupununi to offer a similar attraction and the development of giant anteater monitoring and community‐protected areas in the South Rupununi.

Tourists form a tourist cluster between Karanambu,Surama, and Rewa villages.

These areas have developed an internationally competitive and sustainable arapaima sport fishing project in the community of Rewa, which has increased income for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), preserved and protected Arapaima stocks, and improved quality of life for the village and surrounding communities.

The tourism authority has assured that as a member of the board,Karanambu has served as an executive member on multiple occasions and as president for multiple terms, substantively advocated for the creation of the Guyana Tourism Authority.

Cameron revealed that Karanambu has stewarded the de-

velopment and implementation of mindful policies that prioritise support for community involvement in the tourism value chain and promote purchasing from local communities, have strengthened the link between conservation, sustainable tourism, and village economies, providing a financial incentive for continued support for eco‐tourism and conservation efforts.

The Guyana Tourism Authority is loud in praise for Karanambu as it is being celebrated as one of the success stories among the 2023 Green Destinationprogramme.

Green Destinations is a Netherlands-based organisation working on the assessment, capacitybuilding, and certification of destinations and businesses committed to sustainable tourism.

One of the pioneers of the project, Diane Mc Turk, because of her unwavering commitment to nature and wildlife, led the Karanambu to the Rupununi’s first conservation project in 1985.

Tourists during a visit at Karanambu Lodge Back in 1997, “The Karanambupioneered Guyana’s tourism experts, consultancies, and non-profit organisafirst private protected area. This project’s unique focus extends tions; it works to benefit the Green Destinations commubeyond conservation and emphasises community engagement, nity. More than450 destinations and 50 businesses from education, and inclusivity.

60 countries have participated in one of its programmes.

Green Destinations manages several global proTogether with the Green Destinations Community and the grammes through a core team ofcoordinators and proassociation, theorganisationaims to make tourism better gramme managers. The organisation leads a global partand more sustainable. nership of over 50representatives, consisting of sustainable

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Beautiful Linden THE mining town of Linden - a town of friendly, bustling people, busy streets, long drives up and down hills and inevitably, bauxite mining. Linden is one of Guyana’s biggest towns and is known today as a place where people visit their relatives, tourists visit surrounding lakes, and the people are all one big happy family.

As a town where one of the country’s earliest industries developed, Linden has a rich history. Every village, from Fair’s Rust to Richmond hill, to Watooka and Coomacka, has its own individual histories and stories surrounding the founding and development of the community.

Over the years, Linden has seen a shift in more businesses, complemented by a growing population and changing trends.

The Pepperpot Magazine spoke to a few of Linden’s youths, who explained that Linden is a place where people make their own entertainment and fun.

They shared that with a neighbour or friend, a street corner or a shop front, good vibes and maybe some music, they find entertainment and joy with each other. Young people, like Callisa Lewis, have a profound and deep-rooted admiration for their community, but are finding the task of getting employed a bit of a challenge.

Callisa, a teacher at the Mackenzie Primary School, says there are not many options job-wise. She stated that, “There aren’t many things to do. I became a teacher because it was either this or nursing, and I chose teaching.” She is, however, happy teaching as she says that the people of the community are what she loves most.

Callisa, who has lived in Linden her entire life, said, “I would describe the people of Linden as peaceful and friendly.

Most of the people are also very hard working.” The 24-yearold says that as much as living in Linden has its struggles, so does everywhere else, and she will always proudly call the community home.

A group of young men sharing a loud, exciting conversation or a few young women having a conversation is a norm in most places. But a group of older folks all sitting together, sharing the week’s occurrences, updates, and a few jokes is a unique sight- and it makes for some unique conversations.

The outside of a pharmacy in central Linden is a regular hangout spot for several seniors. Among them was Kenneth

Calissa with her class of pupils (Japheth Savory photos)

nice place, and everybody looks out for each other,” she stated.

Allison Gillis is a spritely 80-year-old who has lived in Linden since 1962. “Linden people are very down to earth,” she told The Pepperpot Magazine. Her friend,

The Mackenzie Primary school Margaret Payne, has also resided in Linden for many years. Margaret spent most of her life and placed most of her roots down in Linden. She shared that, “I love Linden. I went to school here. I worked and then I got married and had my children here, so I just love Linden.”

Robert Melville is 71 years old and grew up like any young man of his time. He spent many days running and playing on the A group of Linden seniors that spoke to the Pepperpot Magazine Belle, who, like the few young people, thinks that job opportunities are needed to see Linden move forward. He stated that “We have to make Linden more viable by providing jobs for people.”

Joycelyn Benjamin is well-known around the locality for her friendliness. Born and raised in Linden, she stated that her love for her home primarily comes from her love for the people. “I was born and grew up in Linden, so I like Linden. Linden people are very nice people. Linden is a very

streets of Linden while the bauxite business was new and enticing. He described Linden in years gone as being quieter, more tranquil and a place where children played in the rain and swam in the canals.

Most of the older folks the Pepperpot Magazine spoke to

undoubtedly believe that Linden has drastically changed, but a few things have remained the same. Whether people come seeking work in a bauxite mine as they did in the past or they come as tourists to visit the town and the surrounding lakes, people are simply drawn to the town that is Linden.

Although there are things that Lindeners believe could be improved, they also believe with far more certainty that Linden is a special- almost magical -place, because when you ask someone living in Linden, Amelia’s Ward, Kara Kara or simply any of the neighbouring villages if they think they would ever leave, the answer is always the same: there is no place they would rather call home.

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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

The People of Linden Linden man urges togetherness among Guyanese people

By Shaniya Harding FORTY-NINE-YEAR-OLD Nigel London has called the little village of Fair’s Rust “home” for most of his life. Fair’s Rust is a little community that neighbours the village of Watooka and is used to access Richmond Hill. The community, like many other villages in the

in population, among other things, Nigel says that Fair’s Rust no longer looks the way it once did. “This was a semi gated community,” Nigel shared. He elaborated further, stating, “Only managers could have lived here, which is why my family got into the area. All of these homes would have been well maintained.”

most suburban neighbourhood. With its many beautiful homes, well-kept roads and charming atmosphere, it is easy to see why so many would have loved to call this community home.

Nigel is a contractor who still finds time to do farming and what he considers his most important venture, preaching. “My farm is in

Fair’s Rust resident, Nigel London (Japheth Savory photos)

The sign that marks the village of Fair’s Rust town of Linden, was created as a result of mining. Villages like Coomacka, Watooka and Three Friends housed the hard-working labourers and operators. But historically, Fair’s Rust was among the few places dedicated to housing managers and upper-level employees of the bauxite companies, particularly Guymine.

Villager and long-standing member of the community, Nigel London, grew up in the community of Fair’s Rust, and he remembers the community as a beautiful and vibrant place. But in recent times, with the decrease

The Watooka Day Primary School was once known as just the Watooka Day School.

It was and still is one of the few primary schools in the immediate area. And it was the school that Nigel himself attended. He shared that, “All the children would go to the Watooka day school. It wasn’t primary school then.

We had fully air-conditioned rooms, wall-to-wall carpeting.”

“Growing up here was privileged to some extent.

I have one brother and two sisters, and I am the youngest,” Nigel stated. Fair’s Rust today is a quaint, quiet, al-

West Watooka, which is across the river. Farming lately has been interesting.”

Nigel explained that although farming in Linden could use further support, it is still an exciting field to be a part of.

The interesting pairing of construction with farming, Nigel says, came naturally, since, he says the two career paths are not as different as some may think. Explaining that for someone who is looking into rearing pigs and sheep, knowing how to construct a pen or sty is vital.

Nigel is a firm believer in diversifying oneself. He believes that as long as cer-

The Watooka Guest house

tain tasks and responsibilities are of particular importance, people will live healthier and more productive lives. “I am quite diverse. I am also a preacher. But it is not a profession. I am not paid to do it, and never have been paid a salary.”

Nigel stated that prioritising things of importance is one of the primary rules by which he lives his life. He shared that, “Whatever is of less importance, I don’t pay attention to it. First, for me, is my God, then my family.

Third are the saints, the people in my church and then my business.”

Fair’s Rust is home to approximately 300 people, and in the community’s early years, everyone was closeknit and the village more resembled that of one big family. But today, Nigel says that some of that brotherly love and Linden hospitality have been lost to the changing times and the change in people.

He stated that, “A lot of new faces have come into the community. Initially, only managers lived here, so you

knew just about everybody because your parents worked in the same place and we would have sports and fun days. We would interact with each other and we went to the same school.”

Linden is oftentimes revered for its people and their relationship with each other.

This love, appreciation and cooperation among each other, Nigel says, stemmed from bauxite mining. “I think the closeness came from mining.

Because even those who came from other countries came because of bauxite mining; they would have all worked in the same company,” he explained.

He went on further explaining that because mining was what the majority did, the relationships forged in the mines all those years ago live today in the lives Lindeners have for each other. “It was the only activity you had in Linden, which was bauxite mining in terms of economics. So from that work relationship, our fore-parents had spilled over into us being able to interact and be very close-knit as a community.”

Nigel stated.

People are any community’s biggest defining characteristic and often its greatest strength. And sometimes division among people can be any village’s biggest weakness. “In many cases, I have had to see beyond. I have had to say this is how I am going to be with you, because I can’t avoid people. Especially in the field of work, you just have to look past certain things and hear past certain things and get it done,” he explained.

Nigel’s hope for the people of Fair’s Rust, Linden and the rest of Guyana is to focus on the country’s development, not political affiliation. He stated, “I hope that we can agree that we deserve a different Guyana, not necessarily a new one.

And we all, as Guyanese, should pay keen interest to good governance. And no Guyanese should be focused on a political association but on good governance, regardless of who is in power or out of power.”

CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, November 12, 2023

Making Sacrifices

IX

One mother’s trials to give her children a good life

By Shaniya Harding MOST homes in the village of Fair’s Rust share a similar design, layout, and, in some cases, colour. But there is a home that stands out among the rest, with its unique look, feel and colour, surrounded by various flowering plants. This is the home of Juliet Simon. Juliet, better known as Aunty Jay, has called Fair’s Rust home for more that 55 years. And she has always made an effort to stand out.

Fair’s Rust was founded as a village dedicated to the management staff of the old bauxite company, Guymine. It was developed as a community where workers were given homes close to the mines, and buying a plot of land there was nearly impossible. But Juliet’s husband, who worked at Guymine, built the family a home among all the other houses in Fair’s Rust.

Juliet explained that, unlike the neighbouring homes, hers was built by her husband, not bought from the bauxite company. “I first came to Fair’s Rust because my husband bought this house. We never lived in the company house.” She stated.

Juliet’s home, with its bright, popping colours, stands out among the other homes of Fair’s Rust and she is happy and extremely proud of that. She stated that, “Most of the houses are of the same pattern. Mine is different because we bought this house.”

Juliet has a rather deep love for her home and even the very land it sits on. She vows that she would never get rid of her house because it was built and expanded piece by piece as her family grew. She said, “When my husband bought this house, it was not finished. But he worked and completed it, and when he had the children, we decided to do the downstairs.”

Juliet is 78 years old now and is the mother of five children. Most of her days are spent gardening and living a gen-

erally quiet life. However, getting to this point in her life took plenty of years hard work and a lot of sacrifice. “I went away and spent 27 years in America.

And I used to come home every Christmas. My husband spent three years, but he did not want to stay, so he came back, and I stayed,” she said.

Juliet worked as a nurse for many years.

She spent days and nights in the cold of Brooklyn to provide for her family in Guyana. “The children were here. And I went through the sacrifices just to give my children a change. I went to school so I could get a good job,” Juliet stated.

Juliet’s main goal in life was to provide for her Juliet Simon, several years ago children. She worked for almost three decades to for them, knowing they were safe and unaware of what she provide for them in Guyana, and, throughout the challenges, was going through. She said that “Sometimes I would be going the possibility of a better life for her children motivated her. to work with water in my eyes. I would say all of you are at “America is a place of opportunities; if you want.” She stated, Fair’s Rust and you do not know what I am going through.”

“If you want to make the sacrifices, if you want to take the Today, however, Juliet has no regrets about the sacrifices insults, you stay. And I stayed because I wanted to help my and trials she faced. She shared that not a single minute was children. I had a plan.” in vain, as she could give her children a better life than she Juliet remembers her struggles as a young nurse ever had. “But I don’t regret it. Because I don’t have to deworking long shifts to pro- pend on anybody, not even my children.” And today, neither vide for her five children and do her children. husband back in Guyana.

At 78, Juliet spends most of her time in Fair’s Rust Linden.

“I had been taking care of She is still spritely active and loves the time she can spend them here. I had to send by herself, planting and being free. “I like being here now money for food.” She went because I am free. I have something to occupy my time and I on further saying, “There like my plants,” she stated. were many mornings where The success of her children is her biggest accomplishit would snow, and I would ment. Today, she is happy with her sacrifices and the have to get up at five o clock. chances she took. She said, “Now that I am retired, my I had to travel with buses children are in America. I gave them the foundation; all and trains.” they have to do now is build.” What she went through Sometimes, throughout her was all worth it, she says, “The sacrifice was not bad trials Juliet would often think because I made a way for my children and my grandabout her family back in Guy- children. “ ana as she worked to provide

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Cities grow from human struggle, but cannot be impulsively created

THE coast of Demerara grew before it earned the right to be called a city through the planters’ quest to broaden their coffers. It was the white man’s dream that became the black man’s burden.

The city that came after was part of the natural evolution of that process of civilising the wild coast towards a ‘tangible and intangible heritage’; towards places in urban legend where ancient spirits were said to gather, like the once famous ‘Conversation Tree’ that so many citizens have vowed to have passed small gatherings there, only with passing to look back and see empty space, except for the guardian tree that used to be there.

The Venn Sugar Commission of 1948 estimated that each square mile of cane cultivation involved the provision of 49 miles of drainage canals and ditches, and 16 miles of higher-level waterways used for transportation and irrigation. The commissioners noted that the original construction of these waterways must have entailed moving at least 100 million tons of soil. This meant that the enslaved moved 100 million tons of heavy water-logged clay with shovels and cutlasses in hand. While enduring conditions of perpetual mud and water, no doubt can repress the added fact of facing the retaliation of disrupted animals, some of them venomous and others large enough to sever limbs, while others, though small in size, were equally dangerous.

One possible small advantage may have been with the West African enslaved. Was it possible to have had a common familiarity with creatures here, with similarities of creatures in Africa? Because the two continents were once of a common origin. Though farfetched, this may have some substance.

The idea of exploiting new plantation grounds was initiated by the Dutch Governor, Laurens Storm van’s Gravesande, who, in the 174Os, invited English planters into Essequibo.

His son became the Commander of Demerara, which led to the mentioned civilising of the coast of Demerara to accommodate plantations and eventually a significant port town. This replaced the previous capital of the slave plantation settlement on the island of Borsselen, named after the Stadtholder’s representative in the Dutch West India Company, van Borssel van der Hodge, according to James Rodway.

The island capital was nothing more than Amerindian troolie benabs. This was conveniently chosen to appease the first commander who owned Plantation Soesdyke.

The sleepy Dutch woke up when some English Privateers (bordering on pirates) entered the Demerara River, causing great concern for all, including the Borssenlen occupants, who ran into the forests with their womenfolk, etc. This event motivated the abandoning of SEE PAGE XII Borsseselen Island and the

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Cities grow from human struggle, but cannot be impulsively... move towards building defences by taking more land from the sea, thus the slow creation of Stabroek. The Dutch built the ‘Brandwagt’ in 1748. It was described as a small wooden fort manned by a sergeant and five soldiers, and armed with swivel guns that could be loaded with nails or stones. It was, however, conceived as useless and not able to stop even one ship. But when the plantations began to stretch towards the mouth of the river, a strip of land, including the site of the Brandwagt, was reserved by the Dutch West India Company to become definitely the site of the administrative ward of Stabroek.

But it was not the Dutch or the English who envisioned the anatomy of the Township of Stabroek. A French captain of a squadron of French ships landed in February 1782, and the British occupying force could not respond in defence. So the French occupied, destroying the British ‘Fort St. George’.

Its captain made the profound statement, “It is considered necessary, on account of the great extent of the river and its FROM PAGE XI

dependencies, to establish a Capital, which would become a business centre, where religion would have a temple, justice a palace, war its arsenals, commerce its counting houses, and industry its factories, where also the inhabitants might enjoy the advantages of social intercourse. This was, perhaps, the only example of a European colony throughout the world which had arrived at some importance without having either town or village.” We don’t know the name of this French captain, but within 100 years of his statement, all that was envisaged and lamented on had come to pass.

Defending this city and its coastal villages against the sea has always been a priority, even now in the face of global warming and the threat before us. In the post-independence era, I was not out of school when the coastal sea defences were strengthened with jetties. Again, that conversation must begin responsibly as the warning global records predict towards our interest.

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DANCE WITH ME III AAHANA smiled too, with the strong confidence within her, a smile that told him to be wary of a brave woman. She turned and began walking away, but his next words stopped her.

“Do you still dance?”

She turned around slowly, stunned by his audacity.

“How can you ask me such a question?”

“Because we were once a couple and now that I’m back, I thought at some time we can dance again.”

“No,” she voiced, incensed that he was ignoring the fact how deeply he had hurt her and she said to him in a low, controlled tone, “I stopped dancing a long time ago.”

A knot formed in her stomach with how upset she was that he could be so casual to pick up the pieces from that period in their lives.

“Was it not as real for him as it was for me?”

Dancing had brought out the beauty in their relationship, the chemistry, the smiles and laughter.

She took a deep breath to unknot the feeling in her stomach and said firmly, “I left the past behind to find a new life, to be a new person and I cannot let him take me back there.”

On Saturday night, she went out with her friends for drinks, and Kayla said to her, “Remember the guy I wanted you to meet?”

“Yeah?”

“Well, he’s coming back soon. He’s a mechanical engineer from Mauritius.”

“Oh, interesting,” Aahana smiled, taking a long drink from her cocktail, “I really think I need someone in my life.”

“Cheers to that,” her friends raised their classes in cheerful agreement.

On Sunday, one of the

old friends she used to dance with called to ask if she wanted to be a part of the Diwali cultural programme. She gently declined with a little pang in her heart, for Diwali always brought back wonderful memories for her at home.

The splendid motorcade, the spectacular lights and the awesome cultural programme.

“I guess I will go home this year for Diwali. I haven’t been home in a long while.”

That thought gave her a new feeling of enthusiasm, so when her CEO informed her that the next week, she would be working three days per week on the Berbice project, it did not deflate her. She stayed positive, assuring herself, “It’s just another job.”

The team she had to join knew her and her expertise, so she had no new challenges to face except from Naren.

He welcomed her on the site with a triumphant smile, “You didn’t want to work with me, but here we are.”

“Yep,” she said casually, “and that’s only because I’m under a contract with this company.”

“I love this fighting spirit of yours, and I hope we can have a good relationship.”

“Work-related,” she pointed out.

He smiled again, as though he thought otherwise, and left for the office.

Aahana sighed and began her work that went into the night. It was a tiring but progressive first day, and Naren said to her, “I recognised your expertise when you made your presentation that day.”

“Thank you.”

“You do know, though, that’s not the only reason I wanted you to work here.”

“Oh no!” Aahana be-

moaned silently and she said to him, “It really doesn’t interest me. Good night.”

The next day, during the lunch break, she went to visit her family at her old home.

“It’s so good to have you back,” her mother expressed, overjoyed.

“Yeah, it’s so good to be home again, mom.”

The settlement was sprucing up for Diwali, and at the mandir, everyone was busy with preparations for the upcoming motorcade.

“It used to be such an exciting time for me,” she said a bit emotionally, “I lost it all because SEE PAGE XXIV

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Using affirmations as a mental exercise

WE’VE all shared words of affirmation with ourselves or other people without even realising it. We were all prob-

ably scolded once or twice about saying bad things, or having a negative expectation with fear that it may happen.

Similarly, people believe we ought to say good things for it to happen, or speak it into existence. That’s the concept of what affirmations are relayed upon. Positive statements can help a person overcome a challenging or doubtful circumstance. This is not to be mistaken as boastful or conceited talk. Rather, it is a reminder of the positivity surrounding you and all you are. If your goal is to be boastful about who you are, then you’re not reaching the full potential of what this mental exercise can do for you.

The realists and pessimists of life may not agree with the notion of affirmations, but optimists do. I like to look at this concept beyond just chanting words, or saying it just for the sake of saying. I believe that it’s a good exercise for our mind. Mind Tools describes it as being an exercise for our mind, similar to how we’d work out for our physical body. Affirmations can be used in our everyday lifestyles for a better mindset on the outcomes of life.

Team leaders may use affirmations to remind themselves that they’re a worthy leader who can complete the tasks at hand. A nervous public speaker might use affirmations to positively remind themselves of their good speaking qualities or skills behind the scenes. You can either say them out loud or quietly. Many people write their affirmations down on place cards as reminders, or they keep them close at hand. You can even use your mirror every morning and recite them. You simply have to devise your list and a routine that works for you.

There is no universal way of addressing it. They’re used in specific scenarios, and can be used to improve self-esteem.

There is a science behind it that suggests if we think positively, it will be easier to fall into the habit of always thinking positively, which can ultimately affect our positive actions and outcomes. Of course, it’s normal to think negatively; there is always a yin-yang effect, and we cannot wholly escape negative thoughts. Nonetheless, you can use daily affirmations to overcome challenges and change your outlook on situations, instead of always focusing on the negatives. To succeed, you should make it a habit and practise it daily. Start by listing positive things that make you feel good about yourself; think about how these positive statements can help you overcome challenges. Perhaps if you have a challenge with your body image, you can find a few things you actually admire about your body. You can remind yourself that your partner loves your body, your body carries your child, your body is beautiful because it is unique, and your curves are distinct.

I have difficulty with Mathematics, and I’m required to use more of it than I’d like at my place of work. So, I have to always remind myself that my intelligence is not limited to numbers; I am not defined by the number of sums I get correct, and I have the capacity to learn from my mistakes. The concept of an affirmation reminds you that life is beyond this negative challenge, and that there are still positives to look forward to in the most challenging life circumstances. It’s not to always be jolly or to ignore life’s problems. Rather, it can be used to help us work better under stress, allowing us to have more peace of mind.

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DIWALI SHUBH! HAPPY DIWALI!

THE happy season of Diwali is with us again. Diwali comes in the lunar month of Kartick and when this is translated into a solar year, it will fall in October and November. Easter uses the lunar calendar; similarly, it usually falls between March and April when translated into the solar year. Paradoxically, Guyana, one of the youngest countries in the world, celebrates one of the most ancient festivals known to human beings. The origins of Diwali are lost in the mists of time, but it goes back to at least 3,000 years and over these years, various explanations of its origin have become attached to it. In this offering, we shall review three of the most known in Guyana.

There was a terrible demon named Narakasura who terrorised the inhabitants of both heaven and earth. He had practised the most stringent disciplines and austerities and was able to develop divine powers to the extent that no one could have killed him except his mother. Among the terrors he inflicted on the world was his kidnapping of 16,000 young women. Eventually, the people implored Lord Vishnu for help, but he could offer no help on his own. He promised them he would incarnate as Lord Krishna, who will have as his wife, Satyabhama. In a clash between Krishna and Narakasura, Satyabhama shot him with her arrows, eliminating him. Krishna explained that Satyabhama was Narakasura’s mother incarnate. The world then became free of criminality and the darkness of Narakasura’s presence. It was also a lesson to the world that women could do whatever men could do. Diwali celebrates the destruction of that demon.

The other legend is that Diwali is devoted to the worship of Mahalaxmi, both as represented in her usual icon where from one of her hands a steady stream of gold sovereigns fall, signifying wealth and as Dhanwantri signifying health and wellbeing. On the five nights of Diwali, Laxmi is worshipped and invoked as the dispenser of wealth, health and learning.

In Guyana, she is popularly worshipped and Diwali is closely associated with her.

The third legend, which is all pervasive in Guyana, concerns Lord Rama. Lord Rama was heir to the throne of the kingdom of Ayodhya, but his stepmother, one of the influential queens, desired her own son Bharat to be king. By her machinations, she managed to have Rama exiled for 14 years so that Bharat could then assume the throne. Bharat saw through his mother’s scheme, refused to sit on the throne and declared that he would hold the throne only as regent until Rama’s return.

Rama then set out for the deep forests with his younger brother, Laxman and his wife, Sita where they managed to survive.

The demon king of Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Ravana, heard of Rama’s exile, knew of his wife Sita’s great beauty and accomplishments, and became filled with desire to possess her. Whenever Rama was away from home, he drew a safety cordon around his hut, which no one could enter and if Sita kept within it, no harm could befall her.

Ravan visited the hut and, by clever deceit, managed to have Sita step over the cordon, seized her and took her off to Sri Lanka. Rama eventually found out what had happened, and he and his brother Laxman set out for Ravan’s kingdom of Sri Lanka to rescue her. Hanuman befriended him and assisted him with an army and built a bridge to Sri Lanka.

They then invaded Ravan’s kingdom, defeated and killed him, rescued Sita, and placed his brother Vibhushan, a very able and compassionate man on the throne.

News of Lord Rama’s victory spread, and the population knew he and his entourage, including Hanuman, would be on their way to Ayodhya. All along the streets and lanes as well as the houses of the city were lit with thousands of small lamps to welcome Rama and the tradition of Diwali illuminations dates from this time. The life of Lord Rama and the moral teachings it enshrined and its interesting story captured the imagination of writers in

the main languages of India and they wrote Ramayanas.

In Guyana, the one used is the one written by Tulsi Das in the dialect spoken in Uttar Pradesh/Bihar, an area from which the ancestors of most Indo-Guyanese originated.

Today, the moral lessons of Diwali, derived from whatever tradition or source, are stressed in the temples and in homes: darkness must always give way to light; truth, integrity, honesty must always be upheld; women must be respected; Lord Rama’s governance of Ayodhya should provide a model for all governments and rulers; the traditions of dignified rejoicing and feasting must be maintained; and the poor and less privileged must be remembered.

In Guyana, citizens of every race and religion participate in the Diwali celebrations and, in particular, line the streets to enjoy the colourful Diwali parade the night before the holiday.

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The Power of Momentum, Mentorship and Mindset JOHN Maxwell, one of my mentors, said momentum should be a leader’s best friend and I agree with him because I have personally experienced the power of momentum. That is what encouraged me to host the virtual programme Momentum, Mentorship and Mindset on November 18 to help people enter the new year with an advantage.

Momentum is a powerful force that can drive progress and success in various aspects of life. It’s the ability to maintain consistent action and build upon previous achievements, creating a positive upward spiral that propels you forward. Just as a rolling ball gains speed as it descends a hill, momentum in life enables you to move from strength to strength, overcoming obstacles and achieving greater goals.

Here are some key aspects of the power of momentum: Starting is hard, but momentum makes it easier: the initial step is often the most challenging. Starting something new can be daunting, but momentum makes it easier to keep going. With each small action, you gain momentum, making it less daunting to take the next step and the next.

Small wins lead to big accomplishments: momentum is built on the foundation of small wins. Celebrating these incremental successes provides a sense of accomplishment and motivation to strive for more. These small wins fuel the belief that you can achieve even greater feats.

Momentum breaks down barriers: momentum acts as a force that can overcome obstacles and challenges. When you’re in a momentum-building phase, you’re more likely to persevere through setbacks and setbacks become fewer roadblocks and more opportunities to learn and grow.

Momentum enhances confidence and belief: as you experience the positive effects of momentum, your confidence and self-belief grow. You start believing in your ability to succeed, further fuelling your motivation and determination.

Momentum creates a positive cycle: momentum is self-sustaining. As you maintain consistent action and achieve small wins, your momentum builds, making it easier to take on more challenges and achieve even greater goals.

Here are some tips for harnessing the power of momentum in your life: Set small, realistic goals: setting ambitious goals can be demotivating, especially when you’re starting out. Break down large goals into smaller, more manageable steps. These achievable targets provide a sense of progress and keep you moving forward.

Celebrate small wins: don’t underestimate the importance of celebrating your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Acknowledge your progress and appreciate your efforts.

These small celebrations reinforce positive momentum and boost your motivation.

Focus on progress, not perfection: aim for consistent progress rather than striving for perfection.

Perfectionism can lead to procrastination and discouragement. Embrace the journey of continuous improvement and celebrate your learning along the way.

Don’t be afraid of challenges: challenges are inevitable, but they also provide opportunities to grow and develop. View challenges as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. Use them to learn, adapt, and refine your approach.

Maintain consistent action: momentum is fuelled by consistent action. Even small steps taken regularly can build a powerful momentum. Make a habit of taking action and don’t be discouraged by occasional setbacks.

Remember, momentum is a powerful tool that

can propel you towards your goals.

By embracing small wins, celebrating progress, and maintaining consistent action, you can harness the force of momentum to achieve great things.

Building momentum is a crucial aspect of achieving success in any area of life. It involves maintaining consistent action and progress, creating a positive, upward spiral that fuels your motivation and drives you towards your goals.

Here are some effective strategies to build momentum in your life: Set clear and specific goals: clearly define what you want to achieve. Break down large goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will provide you with a clear roadmap and make your goals less daunting.

Start small and build gradually: Don’t overwhelm yourself by doing too much too soon. Begin with small, achievable tasks that you can complete consistently. As you gain momentum, you can gradually increase the scale and complexity of your efforts.

Focus on habits, not motivation: motivation can be fleeting, but habits are more sustainable. Develop positive habits that align with your goals. Once these habits become ingrained, you’ll find it easier to maintain momentum, even when you don’t feel particularly motivated.

Track your progress: keep a record of your progress, whether it’s a daily journal, a to-do list, or a habit tracker. Seeing your progress visually will reinforce your achievements and boost your motivation.

Celebrate your accomplishments: take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your progress will reinforce the positive momentum cycle and keep you moving forward.

Find a support system: surround yourself with supportive individuals who believe in your goals and encourage you to keep going. A strong support system can provide motivation, accountability, and inspiration when you face challenges.

Don’t dwell on setbacks: mistakes and setbacks are inevitable along the way. Don’t let them derail your progress.

Learn from your mistakes, adjust your approach, and keep moving forward.

Reward yourself: set up a system of rewards for yourself when you reach certain milestones or achieve specific goals.

Rewarding yourself will reinforce positive behaviour and keep you motivated.

Visualize success: take time to visualise yourself achieving your goals. Imagine the feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction that come with success. Visualization can strengthen your belief in yourself and fuel your motivation.

Maintain consistency: the SEE PAGE XXV key to building momentum is

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Guyana united for the Essequibo IT was very pleasing to listen to Guyana’s lawmakers speak with a united voice, reaffirming that the Essequibo territory belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela, and denouncing efforts to stray from the ongoing judicial process before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Lawmakers gathered at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal, Georgetown, last Monday for an Extraordinary Sitting of the National Assembly. There, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Hugh Todd, moved a motion denouncing Venezuela’s planned December 3, 2023 referendum on Guyana’s Essequibo region and the border case before the ICJ. The motion also reaffirmed that the ICJ should be the place to settle the controversy once and for all, reaffirming that Essequibo is Guyana’s. It didn’t matter what party the 11 speakers represented. They all spoke as Guyanese keen on defending Guyana’s territory from foreign claims. It was great seeing the unity. I mean, the circumstances aren’t great. I wish it didn’t take a territorial claim to engender this sort of bipartisan unity and collaboration, but I guess this is one of those instances where we say, ‘a win is a win!’

I sat in the National Assembly and listened to 11 lawmakers share their views on the controversy, Venezuela’s aggressions, and what they believe could be done to improve public awareness and preparations as Guyana participates in the judicial process unfolding at the ICJ. History lessons on Venezuela’s claims and aggressions were abundant. The Parliament, and by extension the public, was told of how vulnerable Guyana’s Indigenous peoples, living near the border are in the face of increasing Venezuelan aggression. Updates on Guyana’s efforts to settle the controversy were provided. And there were calls for greater public education, international lobbying, and bolstering the Guyana Defence Force. It was an informative and, by and large, inspiring session.

Beyond what happened in the National Assembly, there were very important things happening just around the same time. Across at the Pegasus Hotel, the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen and Tain Talks returned from its pandemic-induced hiatus to bring a more academic level of discourse to growing efforts at increasing public awareness of the controversy. But importantly, that was the first organised space I saw Guyanese youth encouraged to share their views on the controversy and Venezuela’s aggressions. One student in particular, Malika Russell, voiced something many of us have been thinking; that is, we’ve grown up knowing that the Essequibo belongs to Guyana despite Venezuela’s decades-long claim of our territory.

So now that the Venezuelan government seems to be intensifying its claims and aggressions, she noted, there is a cloud of concern, if not fear, that hangs overhead. I know this feeling all too well. I feel it myself. I think I’m fairly au fait with the diplomatic and judicial processes unfolding vis-à-vis Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s territory and Guyana’s efforts to reaffirm that the 1899 Arbitral Award decided the boundary between the two states. Yet, I can’t help but feel concerned, worried even, that not everyone adheres to international law like Guyana.

There was also an important engagement between the Advisor on Borders and Guyana’s Co-agent in the border case against Venezuela, Mr. Carl Greenidge and local reporters at the sidelines of the Extraordinary sitting of the National Assembly. As reported by the News Room, Mr. Greenidge contextualised what was unfolding in Parliament and what should be unfolding at the ICJ on Tuesday. According to him, Venezuela’s worrisome referendum essentially, asks citizens to vote on the fate of Guyanese in Guyana’s Essequibo region and on matters that should rightly be settled at the World Court. So, Mr. Greenidge explained, Guyana is asking the ICJ to block that referendum, particularly those provisions that allude to a possible annexation of Guyana’s territory, and doing so through the possible use of force, in clear violation of international law. He said Venezuelans should not have the “mistaken view” that they can decide the fate of others outside their borders and that they can simply defy their country’s international obligations.

Beyond the context he provided, he also explained why it is necessary for people - be it lawmakers, academics, or others knowledgeable about the matter - to keep talking about what processes are unfolding. Mr. Greenidge said this controversy has been going on for decades and it is at a point where Guyana is seeking a final, binding, legal ruling reaffirming the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and that the Essequibo belongs to Guyana. Still, it is a lengthy process and involves many moving parts (such as Venezuela’s referendum). So he posited that people must be kept abreast of any developments so that they are not led astray by any propaganda and to engender continuous displays of patriotism. He also said public awareness is key so that Guyana’s allies are kept abreast of the situation.

Two days from now, the ICJ will hear from Guyana why Venezuela’s referendum is problematic. Beyond that, Guyana and the ICJ wait to see if Venezuela will participate more in the judicial process at the ICJ. And ultimately, Guyana hopes the ICJ will rule that the 1899 Arbitral Award is valid and that the Essequibo region is we own!

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

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DANCE WITH ME...

FROM PAGE XIII of…” she felt overwhelmed and couldn’t finish the sentence.

Those memories made her leave, and she knew if she wanted to visit home regularly, she would have to stay strong in her mind.

For the next two days, Naren found different reasons to be close by her as she worked, so much so that her team was starting to notice his extra interest in her.

It was beginning to unnerve Aahana, and she was happy

when her three days for that week came to an end.

“I will miss you,” he told her, “We worked great together.”

She smiled and said, “That’s good for business.”

That Saturday night, she went out with her friends again, just needing to clear her head a little.

Things got no better the next week when Naren’s father, back from a business conference in Dubai, visited the site. He called a meeting that night in the hotel’s conference room to discuss some changes on the original designs of the mall.

Naren did not think the changes were necessary and that created a bit of tension between the two investors, father and son. When Aahan pointed on the designs where the proposed changes might create a conflict, his father responded with a harsh statement, “So, now we have a woman doing a man’s job.”

That, for Aahana was a sexist and insulting remark but those challenges she had already conquered, so she let it go. But what she expected to happen did not, for Naren did not say a word to defend her knowledge and competence.

“And to believe he wanted me to forget the past. So, what would the present and future be like with him?”

The next day, he tried to apologise for that, but she wanted to hear nothing.

“It’s okay, I’m fine.”

His family had a big Diwali celebration and light up, but she didn’t attend, instead celebrating quietly at home with her family.

The next Saturday night, she was at the Pegasus poolside alone, sipping a cocktail, in deep thoughts about what the future held for her.

“I may have to resign from the company.”

That did not give her a good feeling, and she asked silently, “What does the universe have planned for me?”

A few moments later, she received a message from Kayla, who was running late, that she had sent the guy from Mauritius to meet her.

“What? I don’t even know what he looks like.”

A photo came through right after, and Aahana drew in her breath at his classic good looks.

“Wow.” A short while later, a strong, smooth voice spoke her name and turning around, she smiled and greeted the stranger.

His name was Dravid.

And as they conversed casually, Aahana felt a nice, new feeling within her.

The live band came on, which changed the atmosphere, and he asked her, “Do you dance?”

She smiled and answered, “Yes.” When the Indian segment started, he got up and held out his hand for hers, “Dance with me.”

And so that night, she began dancing again, for she had found the chemistry with someone new.

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The Power of Momentum, ...

FROM PAGE XVI

consistency. Even small steps taken regularly can accumulate into significant progress over time. Don’t give up; keep showing up and taking action consistently.

Remember, building momentum is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs along the way, but by applying these strategies consistently, you can harness the power of momentum to achieve your goals and create a life of fulfilment and success.

John Maxwell gives an example: a train travelling 55 mph on a railroad track can crash through a five-foot-thick steel-reinforced concrete wall without stopping. Starting from a stationary position, that same train won’t be able to go through an inch-thick block in front of the driving wheel.

It is never the size of your problem that is the problem.

It’s a lack of momentum. Without momentum, even a tiny obstacle can prevent you from moving forward. With momentum, you’ll navigate through problems and barely even notice them.

As a leader, your responsibility is to understand momentum, to get it moving for your organisation, and to sustain it over time.

I encourage you to join and register for the upcoming programme at the Tower Front Desk, WhatsApp 592 628 9044 or email livingwithintention11@gmail.com. People often ask me the secret of succeeding in the fashion industry: it is the ability to reinvent myself. I understand the Power of Momentum, Mentorship and Mindset, and I will share how I did that in the upcoming programme as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called Life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

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November 12 2023

THOUGHT FOR

TODAY

There lives more fa believe me, than in ith in honest doubt, ALFRED, LORD half the creeds.

TEN 1892) In Memoria NYSON (1809m A.H.H.

STUDY SUCCESS Dear student, Welcome dear friend.

Textbooks present nonfiction information in a particular subject area. And, interacting

with them should make readers note both their different and common characteristics. To present information is their common purpose, and new information is organised and developed around a clearly identified main idea. Their information is organised into sections, chapters, and or units, and a table of contents, which detail their structure. Check their text format: type size and highlights among other text styles.

Interesting!

Love you.

THE PASSAGE 1) Dealing with the advertisement Read the following advertisement carefully. Then answer the items given.

SHALIMAR Like every woman, every great perfume has both an outer expression and a deeper, inner mood.

How many bold smiles reveal an inner shyness?

5. How many accidental touches are meant as an inner embrace, warm and loving?

Outwardly, SHALIMAR expresses elegance, calm – a serene femininity.

But stay with the magnificent scent long enough 10. and you will discover its inner mood… a clipper ship slicing through the seas, the power of a storm about to break, a deep sensuality waiting to be released.

You don’t just dab on a perfume like SHALIMAR 15. You wear it body and soul.

1. The quality of the perfume best suggested by lines 11-13 is its (A) charm (B) boldness (C) potency (D) beauty 2. The phrase that gives the least abstract description of the product’s qualities is (A) “magnificent scent” (line 9) (B) “power of a storm” (line 12) (C) “body and soul” (line 15) (D) “inner mood” (lines 2-3) 3. The advertisement suggests that the most attractive women are those who (A) reveal a hidden sensuality (B) are bold in their behaviour (C) enjoy the power of storms (D) speak calmly and elegantly 2) linking sentences and ideas Note: Link words have much value for students’ understanding relations between parts of a sentence or passage. They help with students’ understanding of ideas and facts mentioned in the passage and reinforce, and explain, etc. what follows.

Read the following text. In it, several link words have been

emboldened and italicised. Replace them with other link words, or rewrite the sentences, making sure the meaning remains the same.

Botany Bay “Australia became prosperous because of the wickedness of England,” someone said. What was meant by this?

Simply that in the beginning Australia was a place to which convicts were sent. It was expensive to keep them in prison, so the government was anxious to be rid of them. Before 1783 we had shipped convicts to the American colonies. But the United States of America after 1783 did not want any more of these unruly immigrants. For a year or two they were kept in disused rotting ships on the Thames, until the suggestion was made that Australia, 12,000 miles away, would be an excellent country to harbour them. Captain Cook had sailed around the coast and discovered a place he called Botany because the flowers there were so wonderful, and this was chosen for a convict settlement.

A certain Captain Phillip was given charge of the first group to go there in 1788. After five months’ sailing, they arrived at Botany Bay, but Captain Phillip decided it was not suitable and went further on and landed at what is now called Sydney Harbour. The term Botany Bay was nevertheless used for this colony.

The government had shown little imagination in beginning this venture. Captain Phillip begged for more supplies. He needed seeds, farm implements and food.

Instead, he was sent more convicts. After four years of unrewarding labour Captain Phillip retired because of ill health.

(Adapted from A.M. Newth: “Britain and the World”) 2) Comparison and Contrast Read the text. Then respond to the questions that follow.

Alex sighed and tapped his fingers on the library table. “Great,” he thought, “I give up my Saturday to teach some loser to read, and he doesn’t even show up.

How can the middle school force us to do volunteer work anyway? It’s not fair.”

Just then an older man in greasy overalls rushed toward him. “I am sorry. I just got off work and the bus was late. I am Boris, and you will be my teacher!” he said in excitement. Boris said that he was a car mechanic who had fled to America from a war-torn country to start a new life. “I am a good mechanic, but the cars here are so new. I must learn to read English so I can learn about them and keep my job. Can you help me?”

Alex grinned. If there was one thing he loved and knew about, it was cars. “You bet,” he said, leading Boris to a shelf of books about cars.

1. Which of the following details is correct?

(A) Boris wanted to be at the library.

(B) Neither person wanted to be at the library.

(C) Both individuals wanted to be at the library.

(D) Alex wanted to be at the library.

2. How is Alex’s attitude before the meeting different from Boris?

(A) Alex is offended, but Boris is excited.

(B) Alex is worried, but Boris is confident.

(C) Alex is confident, but Boris is worried.

(D) Alex is excited, but Boris is offended.

3. Which statement most accurately reflects the information in the passage?

(A) There are no evident similarities between the individuals.

(B) It would be impossible to compare the characters.

(C) It would be difficult to contrast the characters.

(D) There are evident similarities between the individuals.

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Legal consent for treatment DENTAL practitioners in this country invariably assume they are obligated to treat every patient seeking their services. This is because they generally do not know that some patients are legally incapable of giving consent to therapy. More specifically, it is unethical, professionally prohibitive and immoral to treat anyone whose mental state cannot accommodate certain basic elements involving their treatment. The person may be too young to be intellectually competent to meet the criteria for independent consent or is mentally incapable. In such cases, they should be accompanied by an adult who would make the relevant treatment decisions.

Before beginning dental therapy, the patient must: (1) possess the ability to understand the specific procedure being contemplated and the risks and benefits associated with the treatment; (2) have the ability to retain an understanding of the overall proposed procedure, being able to describe the therapy and its associated significant risks and benefits (in lay terms); (3) evidence the ability to choose( demonstrate a preference) between alternative therapies ( including the refusal of treatment); (4) choose a therapy based on rational reasons, and the expected outcome of that choice must be percipient( “right” and “responsible”); and (5) be able to appreciate and execute correctly post-procedural precautions.

There are numerous situations in which an apparently typical-looking patient should be denied treatment based on their mental state. Dementia, depression and delirium are three common conditions encountered that may interfere with obtaining informed consent.

According to the population census, there were 28,342 Guyanese over the age of 65 years in 1992. These people are the most susceptible to mental illness, especially dementia.

The essential features are a global progressive deterioration of intellectual functioning and changes in mood and behaviour to such an extent that they interfere with social or occupational functioning and the patient’s ability and willingness to perform appropriate oral hygiene. During the early phase of the disease, patients frequently go to the physician with a confusing medical history consisting of multiple complaints of physical problems and psychiatric symptoms that do not conform to a specific disease process.

Delirium may mimic or be superimposed on dementia.

Many conditions can cause delirium. Toxicity due to drugs, alcohol, and narcotics is probably the most reversible cause.

Symptoms include clouded consciousness, often associated with delusions, illusions and vivid hallucinations. Other common causes are cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and kidney disease. Fatty plaques may break off from the walls of large blood vessels and partially occlude blood perfusion to the brain. With kidney and liver disease, there is an impaired ability to convert ammonia to urea, and this build-up may result in encephalopathy(delirium/dementia).

Depression, like delirium, may mimic and/or coexist with dementia. Recent investigations suggest that a third of the patients with dementia have concurrent depression. Symptoms include sleep disturbances, fatigue, memory loss and retarded muscular reflexes.

Many mental diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, go unrecognised and untreated in this country. Once someone does not walk the streets nude or extremely unkempt or behave irrationally and violently, they are accepted by our society as “normal”. Professionals of the healing arts ( dentistry and medicine) must dedicate some time to initially psycho-analyse their patients before treating them. Failure to do so may result in more harm for such patients.

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