Riding for Hope Hope
One man’s journey to conquer three countries and countless hearts
Sunday, July 14, 2024
The Lift Guyana Initiative, a project by Tyson, is targeted towards getting young people into fitness (Shaniece Bamfield Photo)
Cotton hammocks are ideal for harsh weather conditions and maximum comfort
By Michel Outridge
AS Guyanese, we certainly know how to make ourselves comfortable utilising simple things to make our lives a bit more enjoyable such as the hammock. In fact, many may argue that one of the greatest feelings of comfort is relaxing in a proper hammock.
Joan Benedict of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) produces premium quality cotton hammocks.
Benedict is one of the few persons locally who produces hand-made cotton hammocks from scratch after sourcing the cotton from the local cotton farmers in the Rupununi.
She is a native of St. Ignatius, a village on the outskirts of Lethem and she resides next door to Joan’s Craft Shop, a small establishment that her aunt operates.
Bendict is from a family of art and craft makers. Her mother used to make cotton craft, which was passed down to her and today, she has passed on the skill to her two eldest daughters.
The 45-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that she is the mother of five and her sole income comes from art and craft production, including the cotton hammocks which are sold for $12,000 each.
She reported that the process of making a cotton hammock takes two weeks and is long and tedious. In
longer wanted the product. That is one of the many challenges faced as a self-employed art and craft maker.
The mother of five disclosed that her husband passed away two months ago and it is difficult as a single parent.
But fortunately, her three eldest offspring, ages 25, 22 and 18 respectively, are employed and they have been assisting her in the home to meet daily expenses.
Benedict told the Pepperpot Magazine that the two others are ages 12 and eight and are attending school but have all been exposed to art and craft making.
“Art and craft are a family tradition, passed down from generation to generation and to keep the process alive, I also passed it onto my own children and I am sure they will hand it down to their own children,” she said.
Benedict stated that the art and craft talent came from her mother’s side of the family and luckily, she was able to grasp a lot over the years.
In addition, she related that she also makes cotton clothing in the form of skirts, tops, head bands, foot bands and bras, all traditional Amerindian clothes, and jewellery such as necklaces, hand bands and headdresses.
Benedict reported that she would get sales based on orders received, and sometimes she would journey to the city, at the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, to display and sell her products or annually during September, which is Amerindian
addition, it requires skills and creativity to produce the final product.
Benedict stated that as a girl, her mother taught her to make cotton hammocks and other art and craft forms, and she made a living from it in adulthood.
The art and craft producer said hand-made craft requires patience and expertise, is a long process, and is not a money-making job.
For this year, Benedict said she had one order for a cotton hammock, and when she finished making it, the customer no
Heritage Month, she would visit to be a part of the exhibition at Sophia Exhibition Centre, Sophia.
She explained that sometimes, people would visit her home to make purchases. The St. Ignatius resident added that she would also make cotton-based bedsheets, pillowcases and placemats.
Benedict stated that orders are delivered via minibuses or aeroplanes from St. Ignatius depending on how swiftly the customer needs the products.
She revealed that cotton is sourced from local cotton
farmers in the Rupununi to be used to make all her hand-made signature art and craft, including the hammocks that last years and are durable despite Guyana’s tropical weather conditions.
Cotton is a natural fibre that is soft and breathable. It is comfortable to lie in or wear even in humid conditions, as we experience here in Guyana.
Cotton is also absorbent, so it keeps you cool even during rainy or hot weather. Cotton hammocks are usually more expensive than nylon hammocks owing to their durability and quality.
Joan Benedict
One of the hand-made cotton hammocks produced by Joan Benedict
Riding for Hope
By Shaniya Harding
THIS October, a Guyanese athlete is set to undertake a feat rarely seen in Guyana and accomplished by few. Tyson English, a weightlifter, gym owner, man behind the ‘Lift Guyana Initiative’ and all-round sportsman known for pushing his body to its limits, has been embarking on various cycling journeys throughout Guyana since 2021.
This year, however, will see him and a few of his friends embark on a new, more extreme ride. Beginning in Suriname, Tyson plans to ride from Suriname to Guyana and then Boa Vista, Brazil, covering 835 miles.
His venture, called ‘Ride for Hope’, is in its fourth year, and the reason and inspiration behind it remain unchanged. Tyson says he rides to raise awareness for people struggling with cancer and mental illness. While he brings hope to those facing these challenges, Tyson shared that they, in turn, motivate him. He believes that if they can survive mental illness and cancer, it makes him believe in himself just a little bit more.
Early Life
Tyson was born and raised in the countryside of Maichony. Born into a family of teachers, construction workers, and farmers, he learned the value of hard work at an early age. After completing school, he pursued his dream of becoming a physical education teacher, a job that had always captivated him. As he shared, “I came to Georgetown in 2005. I had to attend a teacher training college where I studied visual arts and physical education. Staying in Georgetown, rather than returning to the countryside, allowed me to do a whole lot more things.”
A multi-faceted individual, Tyson tried his hand at various ventures before sports, including art and agriculture. Athleticism, however, seemed to be his true calling. He has excelled in his field and is one of Guyana’s best all-rounders. His passion for the educational aspect of fitness has made Tyson a diverse athlete and sportsman. As he stated, “Currently, I am the General Secretary for the International Weightlifting
One man’s journey to conquer three countries and countless hearts
Association. I try to ensure that I have a bit of knowledge in every area. At one time, I was even a football referee. But I’m the type of person who does not stick to one
biggest passions. As an avid hiker and camper, bike-packing was a new way for Tyson to challenge himself. As he explained, “It’s called bike-packing internationally
is probably the newest of all the ventures I’ve started, and I think it’s one of the most rewarding so far.”
This extreme sport requires athletes to ride long
control. Two, the nature of this kind of cycling presents the perfect opportunity for you to travel and experience exactly what the country, particular region or community
thing for too long if it does not present a challenge. If it doesn’t challenge me, I tend to get bored pretty fast.”
The thrill of ‘Bikepacking’ Bikepacking may not be a word many Guyanese have heard, but it is one of Tyson’s
because it’s an extreme sport. There’s a massive movement in European countries, in the U.S., and some parts of South and Central America. When I came across bike-packing, I knew this was something I could actually do. I’ve done a lot of hiking, camping, and expeditions in Guyana. This
distances at a time, with their bikes packed with everything they need. Although an immensely physically trying endeavour, Tyson says the mental aspect is what he rides for and truly inspires him. “The thing about cross-country or endurance cycling is, number one, you’re in full
has to offer.”
Tyson described the added experience of meeting new people while biking, stating, “It is a complete tourism package. You get a chance to go into places like Region Eight, Region Seven, Region Nine, Region Six, and so on. You meet people. As simple
as me riding, because most times, for those who don’t know me, they think I’m from an African country until we start a conversation.”
Ride for Hope 2024
The dates set for this incredible ride going through three countries are October 27 to November 3. Tyson’s route will take him and his team through various communities in Guyana, and he is urging others to come out and show their support. The team aims to begin their ride in Albina, Suriname, through Paramaribo, across the river to Guyana and then to Lethem, where they will cross another border to Boa Vista. Ride for Hope began simply as a reason and has now evolved into a catalyst for change.
As Tyson explained, “The ride that is normally done in October comes under the theme, ‘Ride for Hope’. We are using ultra-endurance cycling or cross-country cycling to bring awareness to mental health issues and to help in the fight against all forms of cancer, not just breast cancer. We are giving hope to people who may be hopeless or on the verge of giving up. Because the nature of that ride itself is more mentally challenging than physical. We aim to bring hope, give reassurance, and lend support.”
Tyson English at his gym in Greater Georgetown (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)
Tyson alongside the bike he plans to take to the road in October
The Lift Guyana Initiative, a project by Tyson, is targeted towards getting young people into fitness
‘Backpack International’ spending time with Rupununi kids during ninth mission trip to Guyana
HAVING already conducted extensive charity works in various regions across Guyana, Backpack International Inc. (BPI), a USbased non-profit organisation, is back again – this time on its ninth mission to Lethem in the Rupununi to
20-foot container filled with backpacks loaded with new shoes, school supplies, hygiene products, and reading books for over 200 children in Lethem and St. Ignatius Village. This shipment also includes medical scrubs for the dedicated staff at the Le-
distribute school supplies and host educational and recreational activities for local children.
Oslyn Rodriguez is the founder and executive director of BPI, an organisation she started in 2016 with a global mission to equip students in need so that they can achieve overall academic success.
This time around, the 11-member team, consisting of nine volunteers from the USA and two from Guyana, is here in Guyana for the period July 4-15, having earlier this month shipped a
them Hospital.
“The mission aims to provide much-needed support and resources to the local communities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to start the school year with confidence and dignity,” Rodriguez shared.
The mission’s activities will feature a Summer Sports Camp, offering soccer, flag football, volleyball, and dodgeball, alongside a Vacation Bible School, arts and crafts sessions, sports events, and meals. These activities, free of charge to the registered children, will be conducted in collaboration with Pastor Jennie Forde of Lethem Assembly of God and Ricardo and Regina Robertson of St. Ignatius Village, Region Nine.
Rodriguez emphasised the importance of the mis-
sion, noting, “I remember how excited I used to get going back-to-school shopping for new clothes, shoes, and school supplies. Some of our students don’t have that opportunity. I believe every child deserves the chance to
Guyana after being away for 14 years and wanted to offer her assistance anyhow she could. “I was really moved and wanted to do something to give back to the children of Guyana,” she said.
Being a certified English teacher with a passion for education, Rodriguez, who was born in Linden and grew up in Region Five (Mahaica/ Berbice), wants to be able to help children obtain the essentials of being successful at school. The goal, she shared, is to equip students with everything they need for school.
Some time ago, BPI assisted with transforming an
enter the new school term with confidence. By providing these to students, it’s a small step in encouraging them in their educational journey.”
She said the support from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, as well as from Regional Chairman Brian Allicock, has been tremendous.
“They facilitated clearance of the container from the port and coordinated transportation of the goods from Georgetown to Lethem,” she disclosed.
The team also met with representatives from the Lethem Regional Hospital to hand over hundreds of medical scrubs for the medical staff there and the local clinic in St. Ignatius.
Rodriguez returned to
underutilised community building in Annai Village, Region Nine, into a library. Students from the Sand Creek Middle School in New York donated over 12,000 books to support the library. BPI and the South Colonie Central School District subsequently hosted a book parade to celebrate the philanthropic efforts of the students at Sand Creek Middle School. The Student Council launched a school-wide service project to collect 5,000 books to benefit the new library in Annai. The students quickly surpassed this goal and collected more than double the target number.
Volunteers from USA and Guyana
BPI is on its ninth mission trip to Guyana
Distributing school supplies and hosting educational activities are some of the initiatives
Founder and Executive Director of BPI Oslyn Rodriguez
The support from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, as well as from Regional Chairman Brian Allicock, has been tremendous
Chronic kidney disease patient grateful for Government grant
By Michel Outridge
Calvin Luthers, an end-stage renal failure patient, says the Government of Guyana (GOG) cash grant of $600,000 per patient initiative annually has helped a lot in his dialysis treatment.
The 51-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that nine years ago, he was diagnosed, and has had to undergo dialysis treatment at Doobay Medical Centre, Annandale, East Coast Demerara ever since. Initially, he had to find the sum of $12,000 per session and nowadays, he is required to have three dialysis sessions per week.
Luthers, who was previously self-employed as the owner of a general electronics repair shop, cannot work. These days, he depends solely on family and friends to assist him with monetary contributions for his weekly dialysis treatment.
He reported that this October will mark nine long years he has been suffering from renal failure, a condition that has weakened his health considerably, making him lose his concentration and good eyesight, thus, his inability to work.
“Honestly, I am very thankful for the administration’s cash grant for kidney patients because it is helping… and I wish it was more permanent for people like me who cannot work and have to depend on others to pay for my dialysis treatment at the private institution,” he said.
Luthers told the Pepperpot Magazine that the cash grant of $600,000 would give him three-months worth of dialysis treatment, which also includes transportation and medications.
He has been a beneficiary of the government’s cash grant for kidney patients for one year, and he remains thankful and hopeful that it has helped a lot.
In addition, Luthers, who is also hypertensive, lived abroad (Montserrat) for some time before he returned to the land of his birth, Guyana, to settle and work, but fate would have it that he became ill.
He stated that while the government’s intervention has helped a lot, at the expiry of it, he still has to find money to continue his dialysis treatment, burdening family and friends.
Although Luthers doesn’t have children, he is still finding it difficult to garner funds for his three-times-per-week dialysis treatment.
“I don’t want to sound ungrateful; I am not. In fact, I am very grateful for the gesture of this monetary grant and it is being used as it should,” he said.
Since 2020, the government has made dialysis treatment more accessible via their annual cash grant of $600,000 per patient.
Some $360M was allocated in the budget for the Ministry of Health Medical Treatment Department initiative to reduce the financial strain on patients who must use dialysis as an alternative to removing waste from the blood.
The cash grant for chronic kidney disease patients was rolled out in 2020 to supplement their treatment costs.
Currently, dialysis patients pay between $12,000$15,000 per session and to maintain good health, they need at least three sessions per week.
In addition to those three sessions, they are required to purchase medication, eat a balanced diet as well as do a series of blood tests as often as needed.
Chronic kidney disease patients have long lamented the financial constraints they are placed in. Some of the patients are also forced to go to dialysis two times instead of three.
The government is seeking to add erythropoietin – one of the critical drugs in the treatment of kidney disease – to the list of medications offered in the public healthcare system soon.
According to the Johns Hopkins Medicine website, “End-stage renal failure, also known as end-stage renal dis-
ease (ESRD), is the final, permanent stage of chronic kidney disease, where kidney function has declined to the point that the kidneys can no longer function on their own.
A patient with end-stage renal failure must receive dialysis or kidney transplantation in order to survive for more than a few weeks.
Patients may experience a wide variety of symptoms as kidney failure progresses. These include fatigue, drowsiness, decrease in urination or inability to urinate, dry skin, itchy skin, headache, weight loss, nausea, bone pain, skin and nail changes and easy bruising.
Doctors can diagnose the disease with blood tests, urine tests, kidney ultrasound, kidney biopsy, and CT scan.
Some of the risk factors for developing chronic kidney disease—that could ultimately lead to end-stage renal failure—include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, drug abuse, blockages in the urinary tract, family history, inflammation, and some genetic disorders. Additionally, having chronic kidney disease and not properly managing it can cause the disease to progress to the point that it becomes end-stage.”
Calvin Luthers
Plaisance villagers and fellow musicians rally behind their own
- Hosting ‘Save a Life’ concert to help Samantha Grant with hospital bills
By Telesha Ramnarine
GUYANESE musician Samantha Grant is heartened by the outpouring of support she has been receiving
Woolford-Saunders – where Samantha grew up, came together with Ssignal Productions led by Bonny Alves and Charmain Blackman to host the ‘Save a Life’ concert.
turning home.
Things changed for her when, in 2021, she felt a lump in one of her breasts, but like so many other breast cancer victims, she didn’t take it for anything. In 2022, though, she did a mammogram, and the results showed that it was cancerous. By this time, the lump had gotten bigger. So, after starting chemotherapy, she had the surgery in 2023. But this wasn’t going to be it for Samantha.
“I say I had it because I am not claiming it anymore. I had breast cancer. I did the surgery, and they took out the lump and sent it to Trinidad, so we are basically waiting for the results to see how far along it is. In the process of doing that, I had a kidney relapse; my kidneys failed, so now I have to do dialysis for that,” she shared with Pepperpot Magazine.
So by means of the concert, the villagers and musicians are trying to raise funds to help with her ongoing medical expenses.
“Everyone who is supporting me either through donations, a nice word, having me in their thoughts and prayers, I really appreciate
“I told him yes because I am
ever since she became ill. The concert scheduled for today (July 14) in honour of her by her fellow villagers and musicians is the latest gesture that she deeply appreciates.
Three villagers from Plaisance, East Coast Demerara – Erwin Allen, Cheryl Thomas Went and Anisah
The 43-year-old, who started her singing career at age 19 with the Sheriff Deputy and Wonder Girls back in the day, moved on to Trinidad, where she did her “Rock my Body” album. From there, she had an opportunity to go to Canada, where she spent about 15 years before re-
it,” Samantha expressed.
“I did a live with Charmaine and Bonny, and I didn’t really want to because at times you go and share your story and some people start talking stuff, but the response I have gotten is really overwhelming and heartfelt and I really appreciate it,” she continued.
Even though she has eased up singing because of her illness, she said Bonny has asked her to enter the ‘Calypso Monarch’ next year.
feeling much better and by then I will be even better.”
Even though the illness has changed life for Samantha in terms of her eating habits and other things, she said it has made her look at life differently. “It shows you that sick really don’t have any age; anyone can get sick. It makes you think positively and take one day at a time and make the best of each day.”
She is not ashamed to admit that before the illness,
she was not very much into reading the Bible and praying. But the situation has made her realise how much she needs God in her life.
At the concert today, Samantha wants to perform alongside her colleagues. Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts, Vinel Hinds, OKC, Big Red, Alabama, Charmaine Blackman, Ego, Jumo, Calvin Burnett and Akeem Alexan-
der, among others, have all thrown their support forward and are on board to perform. The concert will be held at historical site in Plaisance at the head of Prince William Street on the line top. “At the concert, I would love to be performing. I can still sing because nothing ain’t happen to my voice.”
Guyanese musician Samantha Grant
The 43-year-old has been singing since age 19
Samantha started singing with Sheriff Deputy and the Wonder Girls back in the day
Charmaine Blackman-Alves, Samantha Grant and make-up artist Michelle
Despite her illness, Samantha is looking forward to performing today
Strathspey A village defying division
COMMUNITIES form in countless ways. A few small families settle, tribes find a place to call home, and people with a common goal often come together. But rarely are they deliberately brought together. The community of Strathspey is unique in breaking this mould. It is among the oldest and largest villages along Guyana’s East Coast stretch. Strathspey is a community shaped and developed with inclusivity and equality in mind. Today, it stands as one of the most diverse places in the country, and the equality with which it was built continues to thrive.
More than 25 years ago, men and women seeking to own land drew random numbers from a bag to gain a house lot in the then-new village of Strathspey. This community offered hundreds a new beginning in a place still close to the capital city. However, the village’s development may not have been as random as it seemed. A mixed group of men and
women were issued land in the village, still without lights or water at the time.
This was not a challenge for young and prospective homeowners like Randolph Blair. The seventy-five-yearold came from Buxton to Strathspey more than 24 years ago. Talking to the Pepperpot Magazine at his home, he explained, “What they did at the time was that people nearest to the village who wanted land were given it. The nearest point that people wanted land, they got land when it was shared. That’s how we have so many people here from Buxton and surrounding villages.”
Two and a half decades ago, Strathspey looked drastically different than it does today. As Randolph shared, initially, it was home to dense trees. Like many other villages in Guyana, Strathspey was without electricity or water. To persons seeking a home of their own, this did not faze them, but Strathspey was still on the cusp of its development. Randolph stated, “When
I came here in 2000, there were no streets, no water, and no lights. It was fif -
ty percent occupied before basic infrastructure came in.” Since adding basic infrastructure, the village has seen countless other changes and developments, bringing it up to par with its more popular surrounding villages like Vigilance, Buxton, and Bladen Hall. One aspect of the community remains the same, however: its diversity.
Fifty, forty, or thirty years ago, communities across the nation could be classified as ‘Black villages’ or ‘Indian communities’. Today, finding these ‘one-race’ communities has become a much harder task and an even rarer occurrence. Strathspey is one of the earliest villages to play an integral role in this from its very inception.
Explaining the process and its impact, Randolph shared, “What happened at the time was that the village and land were shared fifty-fifty, Indians and Blacks. So, it is not a black community. We would put our hand in the bag and whatever number you pulled, that was your house lot.”
The deliberate action by the community leaders at the time has had a long-lasting impact on the dynamics and relationships between residents. As Randolph ex-
plained, this action almost three decades ago has crafted unique relationships within the community. “I think it was a conscious decision to bring the races together and make sure that there was no cry of racism. It was balanced. To me, that was good. I do not know of any other community that was structured on that principle.”
He further added, “I think today, people in the community have a mutual understanding and a good relationship.”
Love of one’s community is a sentiment echoed by the residents of Strathspey. Randolph exemplifies community spirit. The 75-year-old has been chairman of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council for 16 years. As he stated, “In the time I was chairman, I saw the village get roads, lights, and water.”
Shedding some light on life in the community, Randolph stated that Strathspey is what many would call a ‘kitchen garden’ community. “We do not do farming on a large scale here. Most people farm in their little kitchen garden. But most of the people go out to work. Some people work in construction, some in civil service, and some in the private and public sector.”
Randolph, an avid gardener himself, shared that gardening has declined with the community’s growth. As he explained, “The whole village now is houses. This is just a part of Strathspey called ‘Area G’. This area was developed later on. This area was a reserve.” He further added, “In Strathspey, in ‘Area G’, we have about 200 houses, so maybe two to three hundred people in this area alone.”
Strathspey is a compact, diverse, and welcoming community. In many ways, the residents of this still-growing community play an integral role in the village’s hidden beauty. Persons like Randolph Blair have served their community in countless ways. As he stated, “I served the NDC from the year 2000 to 2016, and that NDC is from Buxton to Foulis. I did it to give back. I felt comfortable knowing I could assist the people of the village and help in the development of the community. I did it to give back to the community in a way.” This brimming sense of community is truly what shapes the village of Strathspey.
A quiet street in Strathspey.
The Strathspey Primary school (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)
Cooking up success in Strathspey
A Strathspey woman’s recipe for turning challenges into opportunities
By Shaniya Harding
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
is one of Strathspey’s most prominent and admirable qualities. A quick walk through this rapidly growing community reveals the true extent of various entrepreneurial ventures thriving within its borders. From vulcanising shops to boutiques and supermarkets, Strathspey is home to numerous business people braving the unpredictability of commerce.
Among these enterprising individuals is Karen Nicholson, a mother and business owner whose journey embodies the spirit of Strathspey’s development. Beginning with an idea and a passion for business, Karen’s venture has blossomed into a successful enterprise. Throughout the years, she has witnessed her business develop alongside the community of Strathspey, reflecting the area’s growth and transformation.
Life in the Community of Strathspey Guyana is as vast as it is diverse, yet the essence of its people remains constant across regions. Strathspey has become home to individuals
Karen with a new environment and unfamiliar faces.
However, it also offered a fresh opportunity for her family. The mother of six recounted, “I applied for a piece of land, and that’s how I ended up here. As I got older and had children, I needed to make my children and myself comfortable. I have three girls and three boys, but all of them are grown now.”
The transformation of Strathspey over the years is truly remarkable. Today, the village is home to more than a thousand residents, a far cry from its humble beginnings. Karen vividly remembers those early days, stating, “I was the first black woman in this scheme. I could have counted the houses; my house was the fifth one.”
She further painted a picture of Strathspey two decades ago, starkly different from what we see today: “At that time, things were very different. We didn’t have electricity or proper roads. I used to carry my daughter to get her to school. There were just a few small houses around; we didn’t even have these big houses we have now.”
Despite the less-thanideal conditions, Karen
she explained. Her view of the community has remained relatively consistent throughout the years, particularly concerning the relationships between Strathspey’s residents. She observed, “I don’t think the community is more united now. People normally just keep to themselves.”
Building a Business
Nearly eighteen years ago, Karen embarked on her entrepreneurial journey. She started with a small shop where she sold phone cards and drinks. As she recalled, “I had a little house, and I’ve always liked business. I used to sell drinks and phone cards.” With the community still growing, customers were few and far between. However, as the village’s population increased, so did the demand for a broader range of products.
Karen explained how her business evolved: “My grandson would be home and see these people come and ask, and he said, ‘People are coming for rice and sugar, granny. You should open a shop.’ He encouraged me, and I took his advice.”
Inspired by her grandson’s suggestion, Karen bold-
from surrounding communities far and wide. In the community’s early years, various people came to settle, among them Karen Nicholson. Like many others, she arrived during the community’s infancy, marking a significant change in her life.
Born and raised in Buxton, Strathspey presented
maintained an optimistic outlook regarding the community’s potential. As a young mother seeking to create a better life for her children, she saw Strathspey as her only choice. “To be honest, when I first came here, I didn’t have any other option. And I wasn’t afraid,”
ly decided to expand her business. She invested in stocking the various items that villagers frequently requested. The odds seemed stacked against her in the early stages, with even her husband expressing doubts. “My husband didn’t think it would work. He said nobody would come here because we
had people who used to walk and sell. But I opened my shop anyway. I said whoever wanted to stop would stop.
I’m going to open my shop. It was a small wooden shop. I opened it in 2007. Since then, everything just fell into place,” she recounted.
Karen has maintained that same optimism since the very beginning. Today, her establishment is among the most well-known in the area, attracting more people to the village, particularly those seeking her delicious cooking. Although business is going well, Karen explains that some days are still better than others. “It’s business –some days it’s up, other days it’s down. Some days, I get
one or two customers, but you can’t give up,” she said.
Looking to the Future
As she looks to the future, Karen wants to return to farming. “I would like to have another piece of land for farming. I could do poultry; I used to do farming,” she shared. As a successful business owner and mother, Karen also emphasises the value of training for women like herself. She explained, “I would prefer training for small business owners.”
Karen’s journey from a newcomer in Strathspey to a respected entrepreneur mirrors Strathspey’s own growth and development.
Karen Nicholson (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)
Karen and her business have become a big part of Strathspey.
Keeping the light alive
Overcoming abuse, embracing solitude, and inspiring a community
By Shaniya Harding
IN the community of Strathspey lives an amazing woman with a phenomenal story. Strathspey on the East Coast of Demerara is a unique community with a beautiful mix of people. Like so many places the Pepperpot Magazine has visited, their stories are uniquely inspiring and show the true extent of the Guyanese spirit.
Seventy-one-year-old Indrawattie Sooknanan is perhaps one of the most jovial and hospitable persons this magazine has ever encountered. She spoke about the development of the community as well as her own personal growth. The mother of four has overcome trying times in the village as well as at home. She told us what it meant to work to support her children and survive an abusive partner, and, most importantly, how she is coping today.
Indra, as she is more popularly known, is one of the few people who can consider themselves Strathspey born and bred. Her family was among the first in the community where Indra and her three siblings grew up. Strathspey, more than 60 years ago, was very different from today’s community. But Indra expressed that she loved the community through all its changes.
She explained that the community is far more de-
veloped today, but she would also like to see the community spirit the village once had.
“I would say the community changed for the good. Long ago, the village did not have anything. We did not have things like roads like we do now. We had some small houses, but now people get their lot, they make their house and they have light and water. So we have a good life in here,” she said.
Although she considers Strathspey her home, Indra explained that she moved to Vigilance after getting married. The newlyweds lived in the village of Vigilance for a few years before returning to Strathspey. As she stated, “I was born and grew up in Strathspey, and then I got married. But I have lived here all my life. I got married, went to Vigilance for a little bit, and then I came back here. I got married young and when my mother and father died, I moved back here to Strathspey.”
Indra says this was perhaps among the happier times in her life. The mother of three was married to an abusive man for more about a decade and a half. She described this time as difficult and taxing, ‘taking a lot out of her.’ She stated, “I lived with my husband for around 14 to 15 years. He was a drunkard; he used to drink and then beat me.” Throughout those years, she said she thought about leaving but felt she could not for many rea-
sons, including her children. The values and beliefs of the era also played a role in her staying with her husband for as long as she had. As she explained, almost 50 years ago, people had very different ideas about when and why they should stay together. “I stayed because long ago, people would tell you to stay. My mother and mother-in-law would tell me I picked him so I have to stay with him. I had to live my life for them. He was not like that all the time; we used to live good,” she said.
Her husband later died. Indra says that his death was the beginning of a new era. She does not share the opinions that the older generation did. She explained that if she knew anyone in a situation like hers, she would encourage them to leave. Since his passing almost 20 years ago, Indra has grasped a new sense of independence and now lives alone. She says she prefers it that way. “I do not work anymore. I used to sell at the big market for a long time, six to seven years. My husband used to work at sea; he was a fisherman,” she said.
She stated, “I like living by myself; I am accustomed to it by now. Most days, my children come around; they cook for me. I just live by myself. But when new people come, I like talking to them. Like when my grandchildren come around, I feel so happy talking to them.” Her life
now revolves around her family, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She added, “I have three sons and one daughter. They are all grown up; they live all around Guyana, and when they get the time, they come and see me.”
Now, she appreciates the village she grew up in.
“Strathspey is a nice community. Everybody here lives good. I can’t think of any complaints about this community,” she said. Indra stated that her children often ask her if she is happy living on her own, especially at her age. Indra says she would not want to have it any other way. “My
husband died almost thirty years ago. Since then, I have lived by myself. Sometimes I visit my children and grandchild and that makes me happy. I just look after my children and live by myself. I like it like that.”
Indrawattie Sooknanan (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)
Living and fishing in Strathspey
A fisherman shares his journey, challenges and changes
By Shaniya Harding
THE village of Strathspey is colourful and complex in many ways, and the lives and jobs of its residents are no exception. Located just outside the capital city, Strathspey offers work options in various areas and sectors, with entrepreneurship growing. However, some residents still prefer more traditional jobs. Narine Sookram has been a fisherman since he graduated from high school. Now, more than 20 years later, he says he still loves being at sea.
Narine, the son of a fisherman, was born and raised in Strathspey. Following in his father’s footsteps, Narine has been to sea countless times and now has a family of his own as a father to three boys. The vibrant 51-year-old says he still loves his job regardless of its challenges. As he shared, “I have been doing fishing work since I was a little boy. My father was a fisherman, and I wanted to be like him. I would say I have been a fisherman for well over twenty-something years, and I like the work.”
Throughout the years, Narine has worked at various communities along the East Coast of Demerara. During this time, he says he has seen his profession’s best
and worst aspects. “The first place I worked was Meadow Bank, and then to Eccles and a few other places. After that, I stopped going out to sea for a while. I started working in the swamps. I used to catch shrimps and mullets.”
Although he was never formally trained, Narine has worked in almost every area of aquaculture. He explained that his love for sea creatures has helped him hold on to his job. The work is far more technical and complicated than most people would expect. Going out to either sea or just to the swamps requires Narine to understand both the animals and their habitat.
He explained that fishing for certain species must be done at particular times in specific parts of the sea.
“Fishing work is nice; as a fisherman, all you have to do is understand. When we go out to sea, we have to pay attention to the tide and the time of day. We have to know where to go,” he stated.
Narine admits that fishing and other areas of aquaculture are physically challenging and tend to impact his body. However, he says jobs like his and agriculture all offer something unique: independence. As he explained, “One of the best things about the work that I do is that nobody has to tell me anything.
Going out to sea, it’s just you and your crew; there is no boss or anything. Whatever you catch is your own.”
Sharing some of his experiences at sea, Narine explained that there is an interesting type of camaraderie among his fellow crewmates. “When we go out, it is just us. We cook and work and look out for one another. We go so far out to sea that we do not see anybody. We do not see any land; maybe sometimes we may see a ship passing or another fishing boat. We say hi to each other, and we continue.”
Looking back at the community’s changes over the years, Narine shared that some of the changes have impacted the fish in the region. Pollution is a problem worldwide; as we produce more, more is left to dispose of. Narine explained that the growing presence of materials like plastic seems to chase the fish away.
As he explained, “I remember long ago, the canals, trenches, and the sea did not look like how they look today. At that time, people did not throw anything in the water. We used to swim in the canal, and the water was clear. Now we have garbage and all these things bothering the fish.” However, this has not been enough reason for
Narine to stop the fishing business. Instead, he has expanded into new territory.
Every year, hundreds of pounds of wild meat are sold in Guyana. In many cases, this is done illegally and by unlicensed persons, often leading to animals being killed in and out of season.
This is something Narine disagrees with. Receiving his licence a few months ago, Narine is now working towards distributing legal, safe wild meat. He hopes to open a business that people can trust, as he shared, “I started the wild meat business a while ago. I got my licence
a few months ago, and I want to do things the right way.” Narine says he wants to continue in both businesses depending on availability. He says regardless of what he does, he will be doing it to the best of his ability, as a ‘hard-working man’ by nature.
Narine Sookram (Shaniece Bamfield Photos)
CAN OUR YOUTH FIND THEIR WAY IN A WORLD WITHOUT GUIDING CONTENT?
SOME days ago, I called a taxi, but it took so long that, while I was outside waiting, another family member called another service, and it turned up in good time. I then, while seated, called the other base and cancelled the previous request.
The driver, as we drove off, asked me while I was seated if the other Taxi had come up what I would have done. I told him I would have, on principle, had to pay him no less than five hundred dollars. The young man smiled. I asked him if he thought that
I shouldn’t have paid him at all. He responded, “No, that is not it, yuh seh on principle!” Yes, because I called them, and though he turned up later than indicated, I was still waiting, and I use them regularly. As he drove, he continued, “Wuh ah mean is that people ent really got principles no more”. I really didn’t expect that response, so I threw an intended stopper at him, “Bro, this is your generation, yuh know?” He smiled and responded, “I’m close to my father; he grew up in the 70s and he uses that word, sometimes he says that people ent got principles no more. I try to pattern my way based on understanding what is right or wrong by his standards.” The only thing that I could respond with, honestly, was to congratulate and
warn him, “You’re a different youth, be yourself, but understand that we’re in the age of pretenders, so be cautious with who yuh trust, always do your serious business with the right paperwork.”
The above experience inspired me to ask the question that is the masthead of this article. We exist now and witness our society with too much fatal confrontations, both domestic, exchanged vexations and ‘Street Crime” that lead to lethal outcomes, and the age of the perpetrators is surprising. This is social discord, and it’s not just a Guyanese thing. Personality news, conflicts and tragedies guide society worldwide.
Some issues beyond Guyana are generated by the loss of the entitlement syndrome of groups. What
we have to recognise is the fact that platforms like social media cannot be controlled. Social media crosses borders. One doesn’t have to be literate to get a ‘TIK TOK’ message or definition commentary on any issue. Every item is vocalised. A few years back, research had shown that just 18% of Guyanese were on social media podiums or had smartphones. It’s beyond that now.
Many still read the papers, but the fact is what you don’t see, someone else will call, inform you and guide you to “See fuh yuh self”. Whether it’s wrong or right, it’s there. To the public it’s a definitive new world we’re in. To the parents and leaders of tomorrow, it’s worrisome to determine what is right or wrong. Religion reveals characters and characteristics of distrust because of the silence about the fallen angels in their midst, which the public used to whisper about, and now they talk aloud among themselves.
There will always be challenges in the labyrinth of ‘Talking Culture”, but regardless of how we anticipate on the shadows, awareness of its potential is awakening. The challenge is where the task begins, both the conversation and the counteraction, out of which an antidote can be – with courage – reasoning and effectiveness become the popular choice.
Youth and Climate Change: A Growing Concern
THE United Nations has issued a stark warning by declaring that the earth is now in an era of “global boiling” due to global warming, which results in climate change. This global phenomenon will affect everyone, but the impacts on the younger generation can be overwhelming as they comprise almost a quarter of the world’s population. Climate change, as we know it, is a devastating reality that our youth will come to know and bear the brunt of its consequences. According to the United Nations, children and youth are among the most vulnerable groups to climate change, posing one of the biggest threats to their health and future. No one is immune to the effects of climate change, especially children and youth. Altering weather patterns and disturbances to ecosystems have profound implications for human health.
Many of the global killers of children, such as flooding and drought, are sensitive to climatic changes. Currently, children are dying from a small number of preventable and treatable diseases and conditions, including diarrhoea, malaria, and malnutrition, exacerbated by climate-related changes. Young
people generally have fewer assets and live on lower incomes than older adults. Among young people, those who are worst off are most exposed to climate shocks, making them extremely vulnerable to the destructive impacts of climate change. Climate change increases outdoor air pollutants like dust from droughts and ground-level ozone. It should be noted that children and young people are estimated to suffer more than 80 percent of the illnesses,
THE BLEEDING ROSE III
CASSANDRA answered after a long moment, “If you know you’re ready, you’ll have to brave your mind to face him.”
Aanya walked back to the table and sat with her friend, a worried look on her face, “I’m not sure I’m ready, but the more I run, the longer it will become for me to see my children.”
She sighed deeply, uncertain of what to do, and the two friends relapsed into silence. Then Aanya said firmly, “I will have to face him so I can stop running and take full control of my life.”
“A woman reborn,” Cassandra applauded her, “I’m proud of you.”
So Aanya did not go on the trip to Guatemala but continued working in the forested regions of Guyana, learning new skills from the indigenous people in archery, canoeing and swimming. During that time, in the quiet of the evenings, she and Cassandra would discuss and formulate plans for how she could face her husband and gain access to her children.
There were nights, though, when she lay down to sleep, her mind would reflect on the past.
“If only my father had invested in me as his daughter, believed in me and supported me instead of pushing me into a marriage for wealthy gains.”
And yet, for all he had gained from his rich son-inlaw, it couldn’t save him from the cancer that ravaged his body. She had visited him at the hospital on his last days, and he had looked at her with tears of deep regret, “I am so sorry, my child, for what I did to you.”
Aanya smiled wryly, “It’s too late to say sorry, father.”
She had gotten up from his bedside and walked away, still hurting. The news of his death three days later had not stunned nor distressed her, for he had departed and left her in a literal hell.
“I managed to free myself,” Aanya said quietly, “But it’s not over yet.”
The plan she and Cassandra had been working on
for two months was finally ready to put into play. It was a post on social media that documented Aanya’s life of an abused woman who was forced to leave her children to save her life, hoping one day to reunite with them. It featured pictures and videos of her work as an environmentalist and the award she
her tyrant husband, despite his power and influence, and women empowerment activists came out in a protest march to support her and other abused women.
Human rights organisations cautioned her husband to withdraw the ten million dollars reward he had on her, and child protection services
received for her great work. She succeeded through determination despite having to work deep in the South American jungles because of the ten million dollar reward her husband offered for information on her.
The post went viral for her touching story that awakened society to the horrific abuse of women that, over time, seemed to have become a norm. Not enough strong voices had been raised, and not enough had been done to save these helpless women and help them start a new life.
One woman was brave enough to walk away and take her life back.
Now, she had exposed
contacted him to make arrangements for the children to meet their mother at the river lodge.
He was adamant, at first, that she should come home to see her children. Furthermore, she had lost her rights when she left them, but the official from the agency pointed out to him that that’s not how the story is being viewed right now, and a mother cannot lose her rights that way.
“This would be an epic face-off with him,” Aanya voiced.
“Nervous? Scared?” Cassandra asked her.
“A little of both, but mostly happy that I can now reunite with my children and
they can get to know more of how I am living and the work I am doing.”
“I’m sure they would be very thrilled,” Cassandra said.
Aanya waited, her heart beating at a fast pace as two SUVs pulled up with her husband and the kids, his mother and brother and two personnel from child services. Aanya stood just behind Cassandra and Nicole, two ex-military
women sitting around in support, and she was the entire team she had been working with.
“I must brave my mind,” she kept telling herself, “I cannot show fear, be confident.”
The Director of the Research Center went forward to meet the visitors and cordially requested that they stay at a comfortable distance
with only the children going forward.
“We need to see the mother,” one personnel from child services said.
Aanya stepped forward from between the two women, and before anyone could move, the two children ran to her with excited, happy shouts of, “Mommy, mommy!”
THE BLEEDING ROSE ...
FROM PAGE XV
She knelt down to hug them, crying with joy.
“Mommy, we missed you so much.”
“I missed you too, my babies.”
They just couldn’t seem to get enough of hugging and kissing her, and there wasn’t a dry eye among her team members.
“You look different,” her daughter said, touching her face lovingly.
“Yes, I’ve changed.”
“My friends at school think you’re a very cool mom,” her son told her, pride in his voice.
“That’s nice to know.”
“I need you with me,” her little daughter said, a little quiver in her voice.
“I can’t come back home now, baby, but I’ll do everything I can so we can spend lots of time together.”
The child smiled, though not too happy her mother was not going back with them.
Her husband, who wasn’t allowed close enough to speak with her, spoke loudly in an angry tone, with a dark look on his face. “There will be no more visits; a good mother does not leave her children!”
Aanya ignored him, and seeing tears in her daughter’s eyes and a worried look on her son’s face, she said to them comfortingly, “Don’t bother with that. I will find a way for us to be together.”
She hugged them and turned to her husband, walking up a little and looking at him for the first time since they arrived, and she said in a firm, steady voice, “No woman leaves good and run. She runs from abuse and suffering. It’s over now.”
“It’s over when I say it’s over,” he responded aggressively and rushed at her but was stopped in his tracks by the thudding of arrows in front of his feet on the deck. There were Indigenous marksmen sitting in the idle canoes around the lodge, for Aanya had asked them to stand by knowing her husband’s violent nature.
That action stunned him and his family, leaving the children in awe. Aanya looked at him with a triumphant smile. She had won her first round of battle with him, and later, as she watched her children leave, she felt a new strength rising within her for more rounds until she won to have her children with her.
HONEY PRODUCTION AS PART OF CARICOM’S ELIMINATION OF US$6 BILLION PER ANNUM FOOD IMPORTS
FOR some years now, CARICOM countries have been expressing their commitment to the elimination of the US$6 billion food imports, but not much had been achieved until a move by Guyana to avoid being affected by the “Dutch Disease” by being too dependent on oil revenues. Guyana committed to eliminating the US$6 billion per annum food import bill by embarking upon an agricultural revolution: new crops such as soya, maise, millet and tropical wheat were introduced; livestock - poultry, cows and sheep -were upgraded by import of foreign breeds; prawns and fish like tilapia were cultivated in ponds in addition to deep sea fishing; and sugar and rice cultivation began to be scientifically modernised with a rise in production and productivity and upgrading of honey production was also part of this agricultural push. Guyana is confident of achieving a 25% reduction in the food import bill of US$6 billion by the end of 2025.
them. The honey industry is fostered both as an import substitution and to improve the nutrition and health standards of the population. It may be apposite to say a word of the history of honey to remind us of its ancient provenance and so underscore its complete usefulness and safety. The first extant record of honey production was from a Stone Age painting in the Cuevas de Arana in Spain some 8000 years ago. It was widely used in Egyptian civilisation as a food and medicine and to embalm the mummies. It is part of Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia dating back 4000 years. It is also used in religious
has been helpful: Heals cuts and wounds; helps relieve coughs, colds and bronchitis; aids digestion; treatment of burns with good results; improves brain function and memory; reduces arthritis symptoms; aids in cancer prevention inhibits cancer cell growth; helps to manage diabetes, controls blood sugar; promotes heart health - lowers LDL.
One could get two types on the market - raw honey, which exists in the hive and is the same as ‘pure honey’ and pasteurised honey, which has been subjected to heat. Most of the local honey at present sold in the supermarkets, though labelled as “pure honey” has been diluted with syrups such as corn syrup, and the buyer is not aware of this.
Expertise from Cuba was enlisted to help develop the Honey Industry with NAREI, while at the same time, the Ministry quietly gave some stimulus at the local level by training in apiary management to interested villagers and even sometimes donating hives. Recently, towards the end of June, for instance, President Dr. Irfaan Ali visited St Cuthbert Mission, donated 25 hives, and arranged to train the persons who will man
ceremonies.
Honey is anti inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antibacterial and boosts the immune system. When these qualities are brought to bear on the various organs of the body and on various diseases, the curative nature of honey becomes evident.
Below, we mention some of the ailments or conditions in which honey
Consumers could obtain pure raw honey directly from any of the many amateur producers who have one or two hives. The one large producer is the Rajkimar family from Berbice, who have been in business since the 1940s and their honey is regarded as pure and of good quality and could be obtained from better supermarkets. Consumers should also be on the alert for fake honey, which is mostly imported and sold in supermarkets. Fake honey is formulated with syrups , which simulate the taste of honey.
Genuine pure honey would become more readily available and be increasingly used as a food and drug as the honey industry rapidly expands.
Youth and Climate Change...
FROM PAGE XIV injuries, and deaths attributable to climate change. Changing weather patterns also affect agriculture. As the world warms, hunger and water shortages become more prevalent. Failed rains cause crops to wither and livestock to die, exposing children to starvation and diminishing water supplies for drinking and hygiene.
In addition to the impact on physical health, the climate crisis may also lead to mental stress, particularly among young people, as they are still developing physically and psychologically. This shows a definite need for intervention and action to reduce the severity of the impacts on our young people.
Educating the next generation about climate change is more crucial than ever. Youth have the right to understand the
impacts of these significant challenges and learn how they can contribute to solutions by living sustainably. They need to enjoy and respect nature. Encouraging outdoor play nurtures their appreciation for the environment. This is why the EPA Guyana has been working with educators nationwide, holding Environmental Education Training sessions with teachers to integrate environmental education into school curricula. Additionally, the agency constantly participates in outreaches, workshops, exhibitions, open days, and other events focused on educating young people about the role of the agency and their role in the fight for environmental awareness.
We only have one Earth, and we must take care of it. For the sake of our youth and future generations, combating climate change is imperative.
The environment is everybody’s business; let us take action to safeguard our youth.
You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: communications@epaguyana.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Becoming Social Media literate
CAN you critically engage with social media content? Can you analyse the messages being communicated through social media content? If the answer is yes to both questions, you are most likely social media literate. Social media and its usage have skyrocketed in recent years. Certain platforms have turned regular people and creators into international celebrities and “influencers”. Many of these creators compile and create content full-time—it’s their form of employment. The amount of money certain creators make on social media is astronomical, and it is reflected in their lifestyle and the content they create.
With that in mind, I want you to understand that most of what you see through the eyes of social media creators is curated inauthenticity. It is pure fiction. Some content creators portray the lifestyle of a glamorous stay-at-home mother or independent artist, but that is not necessarily the case. Their “content”? It may be created based on marketing strategies. Their lifestyle? It can be made up to make you believe this is how they actually live. Their motives? It can be purely for profit and money and nothing else. This is why social media literacy is very important when it comes to accessing and interacting with content online.
Do you remember the era of “family YouTube channels” prior to the pandemic? Have you noticed that there was a decline in those viewerships? There can be an explanation for such and it may be people’s
SEE PAGE XXII
Becoming Social ...
FROM PAGE XXI
realisation and understanding of the authenticity behind such content. Most people have realised by now that not every family channel had a “perfect family” because of the recent upsetting news reports that broke out with many of them. However, this form of awareness and critical content analysis should not be limited to family channels only. A critical analysis may be you asking the “why”, “how, “when”, “where” questions when an “influencer” tells you to purchase an item or service.
Are they affiliated with this company? Are they paid to tell me to purchase this item, or is it really a good item to purchase? You should be able to dissect the intent of the content to begin with because, unfortunately, most content on social media is purely made to maximise profit. Social Media Literacy is also important because it prevents the spread of misinformation and disinformation. If you’re critical of the content being published, you would check the sources of the content, fact-check the information presented and understand intent yet again. The lack of literacy in social media also causes cybersecurity hacking and bullying. You simply do not click on a link and start sharing your information immediately. You should check to understand and see if it’s a legitimate and safe site to use or if the services offered are even real. Unfortunately, many people lose millions of dollars annually due to cybersecurity vulnerabilities while using social media. I believe it is our responsibility to ensure we use social media in keeping with the application’s community guidelines and with our moral compass at work. We must be mindful of the content we consume, share and interact with because it may do more harm than good to ourselves and others around us. You should be able to use less emotions and more critical thinking when analysing content. I think there’s no escaping social media. Even online classrooms require you to join a social platform. Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be mindful of how we use social media and what we see. After reading this column, I hope you start to realise these patterns and make better decisions moving forward. Happy scrolling!
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
I grow old … I grow old … I shall wear the bottoms of my trou- sers rolled. T.S. ELIOT (1888-1965) The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock
STUDY SUCCESS
Dear Student, Welcome dear friend. To help you understand and evaluate the information given in a passage you are sometimes asked to compare several passages on the same subject. Here, you are to relate the information received in the first text to that of the other texts. Note-taking helps here. See what
JULY 14, 2024
new the other texts bring and note their possible biases. Comparing several texts is one way of organising what takes place in our mind when we read, friend. Be wise. Love you.
IMPROVING WRITING Writing a research report
What it is: A research report gives accurate information that you have discovered about a topic. Decide upon your main ideas and arrange your facts carefully. This information must be clear and well-organised.
Give the sources of your information wherever possible. Often the report includes the ideas and opinions of people considered to be experts on the topic.
What it does: Gives factual information about a topic. Provides a basis for further study or discussion.
Who it is for: Readers who want or need specific information about a topic.
How it is written: A research report is written as several connected expository paragraphs. When you have several main ideas about a topic, you will want to use several connected paragraphs to develop these ideas. Each main idea will then be supported by its own set of details, and all the main ideas will support and together add up to the overall main idea
When you write a research report, there are rules you need to follow.
1. Start by telling what the topic is about, and what the report will try to do. You need to arouse the reader’s curiosity.
2. Use a topic sentence to give the overall main idea.
3. In the middle of the report, give the information you have found.
4. Use a separate paragraph for each main idea.
5. use endnotes to give the sources of your information. Include a bibliography.
6. End by restating the overall main idea or summarising the information.
7. Use signal words and phrases where appropriate to connect the main ideas, and to connect the details to each other and the main ideas. Make sure that the readers know what you were trying to prove, and that they feel you have succeeded.
Here is part of a short research report on parachuting.
Parachuting is an exciting and invigorating sport enjoying a sharp increase in popularity. For centuries, men have dreamed of flying.
Now, men and women alike are spending their time and effort to experience the thrill of falling through the air. [Beginning topic sentence with the overall main idea (What the report is about.)]
Since parachuting is relatively new as a sport, people are asking what it is, how much it costs, and why it has become so attractive. This will try to answer these questions. [What the report will do.]
Parachuting is jumping from an aeroplane and falling slowly through the air with the aid of a huge canopy called a parachute. Two kinds of jumps can be made: the static-line jump, and the freefall. Beginners usually jump using a static line, while more seasoned jumpers freefall.1 [Middle details. There is an endnote reference here for the end of the paper.]
Parachuting can be expensive.…
Although parachuting can be expensive and dangerous, most jumpers agree that the sheer exhilaration of falling through the air makes it all worthwhile. [Ending restates main idea.]
GRAMMAR
Recognising certain errors in sentences.
No sentence below contains more than one error. Some of the sentences are acceptable as they stand.
Note: i) A sentence contains a cliché when that expression either has a general meaning or has “lost its meaning” over time. The overused phrase does not provide a specific meaning or image.
ii) A sentence is incorrect grammatically when its structure contradicts some law of grammar.
iii) A wordy sentence is one which uses more words than necessary, especially short, vague words that do not add much meaning. A wordy sentence is often indirect with its subject and verb not expressing the main focus of the sentence.
When you answer, mark the one option that best describes each sentence, as follows:
(A) The sentence is acceptable as it stands.
(B) The sentence contains a cliché or misused metaphor.
(C) The sentence is incorrect grammatically or faulty in diction.
(D) The sentence is too wordy, is repetitive or contains redundancies.
1. Sitting in his room by himself he repeated her name over and over again.
2. The major rushed up the lane like a house on fire and, shouting with all the strength he could muster, sounded the alarm.
3. If I were the captain of the West Indies team, I would attack the batsmen with my fast bowlers immediately after the luncheon interval.
4. There are many who have not considered the need to abstain from alcohol, but abandoning drink for sobriety is truly the only option for one who wishes to engage in healthy lifestyle practices.
5. She was a nimble-footed dancer; her graceful body executed delicate movements with incredible poise.
6. Because of the many fruit trees which distinguished the yard, the little boys enjoyed playing in the yard of the uninhabited house where no one had lived for many years.
7. The Chernobyl accident gave a grim but timely reminder of our shrinking world that no nation can hope to isolate itself from the horrendous effects of a major nuclear disaster.
8. The politician hammered the nail of his argument into the leafy minds of his audience who had come to hear him speak on the difficult subject of monetary policy.
The importance of saliva
DID you know that no person can talk or eat if it were not for saliva? This fluid, commonly called “spit”, which is taken for granted, contains 31 different proteins plus 20 other substances, most of which comprise a wide variety of metallic particles.
Many of the proteins and other constituents of saliva protect the soft and hard tissue of the oral cavity. The salivary mucins (slime) coat and lubricate the surfaces of the oral mucosa (lining). These larger molecules prevent bacterial adherence and colonisation, protect the tissues from physical abuse and allow them to resist temperature change. Some of the proteins, like lysozyme, can degrade the bacteria’s cell walls, e.g. histatin, lactoferrin and lactoperoxidase, and inhibit microbial growth. Some proteins, such as salivary antibodies, may protect the teeth against caries.
When the mouth is inactive, saliva flows at about one tablespoon every ten minutes. Conscious or unconscious, the flow never stops. While chewing gum, the flow rate of saliva averages one tablespoon every three minutes. The most remarkable finding of all studies is the enormous variability of flow rates for both basal (resting) and stimulating (chewing) secretions. These may have up to a 30-fold range. Thus, a wide range of saliva production can allow normal oral functions. People with excessive salivary flow do not usually have bad breath.
A dry mouth is experienced when the salivary flow is reduced by at least 50 percent. The oral symptoms of xerostomia (dry mouth due to glands not functioning properly) are: these persons are often thirsty, have difficulty with swallowing, speaking and eating dry foods, need to sip water while eating frequently, have difficulty wearing dentures and often do things to keep the mouth moist. Bad breath is also a side effect.
Other signs and symptoms of the disease include burning or tingling sensations of the tongue, abnormal taste perceptions and fissures (cracks), and sores at the corners of the lips. General symptoms may also involve a dry throat, blurred vision with burning and itching or sandy feelings in the eyes, dryness, itching, and burning in the vagina, in addition to a recurrent history of vaginitis. Dry skin and nose are also seen, apart from frequent constipation. Many of these symptoms may also present in patients without xerostomia, but they are much more common in those with it.
Various other factors cause xerostomia, in addition to more than 400 drugs that can decrease saliva secretion. Without a doubt, the worst agent capable of causing the syndrome is radiation used in the treatment of oral and thyroid cancer. As far as possible, the glands should be shielded from the full radiation dose.
Included in the diseases that may cause salivary gland hypo-function are rheumatoid conditions, AIDS, and certain common diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Decreased chewing because of constant liquid diets and in patients whose jaws are wired when broken can induce gland atrophy (shrinkage), leading to dry mouth.
The ability of psychic states to depress the flow of saliva is well known. Depressive effects of anxiety and fear can result in lasting episodes of dry mouth. When no organic change can be found in a patient’s troublesome oral dryness, he should be advised to consult a psychologist or a psychiatrist to explore possible psychogenic factors. Treatment using antidepressant drugs tends to aggravate the degree of oral dryness.
Relief can also be had with sugar-free gum and the controlled use of bromhexine sulparam and pilocarpine HCL.
