CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
Reflections of 2023 Small business owners share lessons learnt and their plans for 2024
Michael April vending lemonade/beverage jars
Sunday, December 31, 2023
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New Year’s
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
Resolutions
It is traditional for Guyanese and people all around the world to make resolutions for a brand New Year AS a brand New Year is approaching rapidly, it gives us hope that perhaps it
might be the year we can do better as we reflect and aspire to become all we
can be. The year 2023 was a lot for some of us who lost loved
ones, tragic things happened, people lost their houses to fires, and others are going through so much that often we bear these things silently. Some of us make resolutions for the New Year, while others just go with the flow, but nothing is wrong with setting goals and working towards achieving them. At times, things happen, and we do not get to fulfill all our goals and resolutions,
but it is all part of life that makes us even stronger mentally to cope with whatever comes our way. New Year’s resolutions are traditional to Guyanese;
on Old Year ’s Day/New Year’s Eve, we reflect and recollect our thoughts to SEE PAGE XIV
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
What the people say
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- New Year’s Resolutions
THIS week the Pepperpot visited the streets of Georgetown to interact with Guyanese on their resolutions for 2024. Some people still keep resolutions while others don’t, but it is customary for many people to make resolutions and work towards achieving them whenever we embark on a new year.
Ronauther Small
Saving, building and entrepreneurship The team spoke to Nicholas McDonald, 27, a spritely young man employed with Sheriff Security and was at work that day. He added that, as customary, he keeps resolutions for the New Year and will work towards achieving them. McDonald reported that being a father of two, he has no other option but to work to maintain his household.
Troy Wright His New Year resolution is to save money to build his own house since he wants to escape paying rent. McDonald added that he also aspires to become self-employed. He plans to ride and sell homemade pastries and local fruit juices.
According to McDonald, things will fall into place for him because he comes from a family of six siblings, and his sisters will assist him to make the pastries and fruit juice. He related that his main resolution for 2024, however, is to construct his own house. He already applied for a plot of land. McDonald’s has been working with the privately owned security service for the past year, but he hopes to find other avenues to earn since he has responsibilities for his two children.
and although she applied for a house lot she is still waiting to receive it. The vendor explained that she used to be employed, but five years ago, she had had enough and wanted to start her own small business so she began vending. “At Christmas time, I would come out here to sell the barrel stuff to catch my hands, you know how it is,” she said. Small added that working with herself is a blessing since she can focus on things like fulfilling her New Year’s resolutions. Career advancement
Nicholas McDonald (Shaniece Bamfield photos)
Tr o y Wr i g h t , a self-employed man, says his resolution is to become the coach of the National Youth Football Lia Pichaido Team. The 51-year-old told the Pepperpot Magazine that he is now coaching the Marian Home ownership Academy Football under 11 girls’ team, and they recently Ronauther Small is won after 12 years. Wright has been contributing to sports as a coach for the also a vendor along Regent Street, Georgetown, and past eight years. on that day, she was selling Making Guyana home some items she got from a barrel sent to Guyana by Lia Pichaido, a sales clerk at a store, told the Pepperpot her relatives. Small, 41, a mother of Magazine that her resolution for 2024 is to continue living in three, told the Pepperpot Guyana. As an immigrant, she has been here for the past three Magazine that her resolution months and gained employment. She is one of many seeking for 2024 is to move into her a better life in Guyana. The 25-year-old said she is still adjusting to living in very own little house. She would like to be free Guyana and working. Even though there is the language of the burden of paying rent, barrier, she is of the opinion things will only get better.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
Kwanzaa and Christmas The misconceptions, differences and striking similarities
By Shaniya Harding AS the Christmas season slowly winds down, some usher in a new holiday. Kwanzaa is an African harvest festival that begins on December 26 every year. The holiday has been celebrated across Africa for ages and has also been a part of Guyanese customs for more than three decades. Although widely celebrated, not many people know exactly what Kwanzaa is, how it is celebrated or even what it represents. There are a few misconceptions about the occasion, one of the biggest being that it drastically differs from or
Some of the gifts present at Kwanzaa
The scene at last year’s Kwanzaa festivities opposes the Christian Christmas holiday. Violet Baptiste is represent Kwanzaa, signifying the ability of Africans to persea long-standing member of the African Cultural and Devel- vere despite setbacks. The seven candles are often the biggest opment Association (ACDA). According to Violet, Kwanzaa symbol associated with the occasion and speak to the seven and Christmas are not so different. Each has its own symbols, principles themselves. Violet stressed that although special in its own right, colours, principles, and means. And the first principle of Kwanzaa is one all Guyanese should be familiar with during Kwanzaa is not so different from any other holiday, stating, “Kwanzaa, like all holidays, has certain colours, symbols, Christmas: unity. Kwanzaa is a seven-day festival celebrated in Guyana songs ans practices associated with it.” She drew comparisons by ACDA since 1992. At its between Kwanzaa and Christmas, stating, “For instance if we core, the festival has seven are talking about Christmas, Christmas has colours of red and principles referred to as the green. Kwanzaa has colours of red, green and black. Christmas ‘Nguzo saba’. On Boxing has symbols like Santa Clause, Kwanzaa has symbols like the Day, the first principle of seven candles, etc.” One of the most striking similarities between the two unity was observed. In the following week, all the other holidays is the act of gift-giving. Kwanzaa includes the act principles will be celebrated. of exchanging gifts. Items exchanged during Kwanzaa are a Next are self-determination or bit different from the toys of Christmas. Because of its nature ‘kujichagulia’, and collective and history, fruits, vegetables and provisions are shared among work and responsibility or family and friends during Kwanzaa. Violet told the Pepperpot ‘Ujima’, being the second Magazine that “Christmas has gifts and Kwanzaa has gifts. and third principles. Cooper- Our gifts are, however, a bit different. The gifts we give are ative economics or ‘Ujamaa’, generally gifts of harvest. Persons would bring what they as well as Purpose or ‘Nia’ plant, we share local things, like cassava and celery, things followed by creativity or we plant.” Violet says that the idea that Kwanzaa is limited to those of ‘Kuumba’ and ‘Imani’, meaning faith, concludes the week African descent is a false narrative. The sentiments of Kwanzaa are applicable to everyone, everywhere. Unity, cooperaand the end of Kwanzaa. Contrary to popular belief, tion, and faith are ideas that anyone can observe she explained. The principles of Kwanzaa are not simply limited to the Kwanzaa holds no religious significance as Christmas holiday. But they are rather general ideas that can be applied does to Christians. Violet to the world. Violet stated that, Unity is the first principle; stated, “It is a non-religious everyone can celebrate unity. determination or ‘kujichagulia’, holiday. It is an African har- and collective work and responsibility or ‘Ujima’, everyone vest holiday mainly focusing should cooperate. In cooperative economics or ‘Ujamaa, and on family and community. It Purpose ‘Nia’, everyone has a purpose. Creativity ‘Kuumba’, is a gathering and commem- Africans are not the only ones who are creative. Imani, faith, to oration of the past. We gather believe in all our hearts in our parents, family and community, together, and we chat. It is a those are fundamental things that govern the whole universe.” For those unfamiliar with Kwanzaa and what the ocrecommitment to those tenants of African culture. That casion looks like or encompasses, it is best described as a fest. The programme began with libation and saw various is what Kwanzaa is.” Although little is known plays and dances. This was followed by the lighting of the about this holiday in Guyana, Kwanzaa candles. This is traditionally done by seven memit is celebrated worldwide bers of the audience, including men, women and children and has its own unique set or and an elder. The singing of folk and African songs entersymbols, colours, and food. tained the people. The distribution of the Zawadi or gifts Things such as the straw was done as people danced the in crowd. Countless foods mat symbolise rich tradi- and gifts were exchanged in the spirit of unity; it seems tion, whereas a bowl of fruit as though Kwanzaa and Christmas are not as different as represents reward after hard they may seem. work. The ears of corn always
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
Reflections of 2023
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Small business owners share lessons learnt and their plans for 2024
By Michel Outridge
Street, Georgetown, and he is a Spanish who has been living
Some would make wholesale (bulk) purchases of items
The Pepperpot Magazine took to the streets of Georgetown and asked several small business owners who started this year and a bit earlier about the lessons learnt in 2023 as a start-up and their plans to scale their businesses in the New Year. Here is what they had to say: ChumanlallVishnanauth, a pushcart vendor, who operates on the busy Regent Street, Georgetown, a central hub for businesses, said he embarked on his small business last year. So far, it has been fair. The father of one is from Third Field, Industry, East Coast Demerara and he is hoping to expand his business in 2024. Firstly, he would like to have a permanent location for his stall since he has to move from one place to the next and the other street vendors aren’t kind to him. He explained that he is being bullied to relocate. When the Pepperpot Magazine spoke to him, he said that a vendor was telling him he had to go. He had just stopped to fix his bicycles and pack up his items to start his day of vending elsewhere. The 24-year-old added that he sells plantain chips, cassava chips, chicken foot, phone cases, key rings, sunglasses and
Chumanlall Vishnanauth with his push cart (Shaniece Bamfield photos) in Guyana for almost two years. The young man said that business is good as a food cart vendor, and his customers are pleased because he makes his hot dogs from scratch. They are fresh,wholesome and prepared under hygienic conditions. Jordan is new to Guyana and doesn’t know much English, but the locals support his small business, and he is grateful. Maybe he will upgrade and expand his small business as time progresses, but over the past year, he has learnt that life is better here in Guyana for him. Most vendors along Regent Street are everyday sellers, and during the peak holiday season, others come out to sell items they receive from barrels and overseas to earn.
from stores to retail on the pavement along busy shopping areas in the city to earn. It is a norm for vendors to encumber the pavements in the city, especially during the Christmas holidays when shopping is at its peak. Leading up to the holidays, during and even after the festive season, Guyanese would shop to their satisfaction to adorn their houses with decorations, Christmas lights, ornaments and food. In Guyana, shopping at Christmas time is hectic, and it is usually a crowded affair with lots of vendors and late opening of stores and other retail businesses to accommodate the volume of shoppers.
Michael April vending lemonade/beverage jars cold beverages with his pushcart with a bicycle attached. Vishnanauth would mostly walk and sell on Regent Street, and in 2024, he plans to expand his small business with a permanent stall and buy more things that would sell quickly, including trendy clothing. The father of one stated that he is hoping to build a stall and establish a permanent location for the New Year. Michael April is a vendor only at Christmas time. This year, he is selling lemonade/beverage jars with the spout for $1,500 and he is located at Regent and Camp Streets, Georgetown, in front of Burger King. As a small business owner, he reported that “it is all about the spot”, meaning that location is key to doing business. April added that unlike the years gone by, things have been really slow in commerce this year, but all hope isn’t lost since the holidays are over. Jordan (only name given) is a hot dog vendor on Camp
Jordan, the hot dog vendor
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
What it means to be Guyanese How one Guyanese in the diaspora is keeping close to her roots through the holiday season
GUYANESE are spread across the world, in countless countries, on almost every continent, our people can be found. Some places are known to house Guyanese. Cities like New York are home to hundreds of Guyanese. But a place like Hawaii is not somewhere one would expect the Guyanese flag to be flying high. But not only are we present. There are Guyanese like Roxanne Hermanstyne who are keeping their culture and tradition alive and well wherever they go. Roxanne was born raised and has lived in the land of many waters for several years. Since then, Roxanne, a certified pharmacist, philanthropist and military spouse, has called a few places across the globe home. Today, she is living and working in Hawaii, several thousand miles away. As the holidays rolled around and as they come to an end, Roxanne shared memories of how her family celebrated the holidays all those years ago and how committed she is to celebrating an authentic Guyanese Christmas wherever she may be. Growing up in Guyana, Roxanne experienced the holiday season like many young children. The intense Christmas cleaning, the Caribbean Christmas carols that would be begin playing a week into December and the unforgettable aroma of Pepperpot and black cake. “Growing up I remember Christmas, that was when the entire house [cleans]- from washing windows to cleaning chairs to washing your chair backs and all these different covers. Pretty much the entire house goes upside down for Christmas,” Roxanne shared. Although Roxanne has not spent Christmas in Guyana for some years, she still remembers the core values of the authentic Guyanese holidays taught her. The cleaning, decorating and food were always for family. She shared that, to her, it was never about toys or overspending. But rather, the holidays were dedicated to family and ensuring their house felt like a home for the holidays. Roxanne shared that, “I remember my mom just making sure that everything was set for Christmas. It wasn’t even related to toys. It was just making sure that the house was a home, making sure it was clean. The food was there as far as we have Pepperpot and bread and black cake the next morning.” Growing up, Roxanne’s family owned a stall in Stabroek market. The sights and sounds that lit up the capital city on Christmas eve and the atmosphere that creates something that Roxanne will never forget. “Christmas Eve day I do remem-
Roxanne Hermanstyne (sourced from Facebook)
ber us going to walk down Regent Street getting whatever last-minute spare shopping done. Even being in the festivities from the music and, I felt like Regent Street or even going into the market was always a big party. I just remember as a kid every install in the market was playing music, so you felt the activity of Christmas because everyone around you was preparing for Christmas,” she shared. According to Roxanne, the warm, packed streets of Georgetown are not so different from Christmas in Hawaii. She spent her time in New York surrounded by family and friends. Roxanne says that as unique as the holidays in Guyana are, every holiday is a Guyanese one as long as our people are present. Hawaii as far away as it is, is not so different from Guyana. It is these similarities that make Roxanne feel at home. The sunshine, welcoming people, and small homes are reminders of Guyana. As Roxanne said, “I was living in New York before I got married to my husband and I think being in New York allows you to keep Christmas more because there are so many Guyanese. I had a lot of family in New York. Now that I’m here in Hawaii, the locals here are big on Christmas, too, and I feel like I get the same feeling minus it being Guyana.” Of course, Roxanne still cherishes the memories she has made in her homeland. She urges other Guyanese across the globe to reach out to each other and to remember the tradition taught to them. Roxanne shared that she will continue to pass her tradition on to her children: “I will pass the tradition to my children. As I got older, it was not merely about spending a lot for Christmas; I realised it was who I wanted to spend Christmas with. I want to pass that down to my generation because there is something in our culture that not everyone could understand.” To all the Guyanese who may be homesick, Roxanne says she understands what it feels like to miss home. She shared that, “To see another Guyanese, even if it is across the internet on Facebook or Instagram, even if you may not know them, I feel as though that actually is one way to connect with one another during Christmas.” Keeping memories alive, having contact with other Guyanese in the diaspora and never forgetting what it means to be Guyanese makes any holiday special.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
Friends of mine who died in 2023
AS we have come to the end of yet another year, 2023, I continue with my annual tradition of looking back at those who I knew and who are no longer with us. One of my dear friends who died this year, 2023, was Guyanese-born Msgr. Paul Jervis, who passed away on September 5, at age 69. He was what can be described as “Guyanese to de bone.” Having migrated at 19 years, he spent most of his 69 years living and pastoring in the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens, New York City. Msgr. Paul Winston Jervis focused quite a lot on his homeland, Guyana, and gave much of his time to positive projects to help with the spiritual needs and development of many of whom he was privileged to pastor. He made it his duty, even self-appointed responsibility, and looked and found some well-deserving cases which needed attention, including those individuals and groups who needed a hands-up to improve their standard of living and quality of life. That included widows who would have needed a job to keep a family together or some youngster who needed a mentor or someone who would give them good advice for them to avoid making wrong and disastrous choices in their young life. One of the most pronounced activities of the late Msgr. Paul Jervis, is the annual New York Guyanese Holy Mass, which has been celebrated annually on the second Sunday of October for over 30 years. Msgr. Paul Jervis, who was a first cousin of Guyana’s former President Samuel Hinds, became very concerned when racial conflicts between citizens of African and Indian heritages exploded into physical combat in many areas of the country in the 1960s and went on for many months. After the conflict subsided and ended, the residue was clear to see. The verbal insults and disharmony continued as clear as daylight among many members of the two groups. Msgr. There was hope even in the worst of situations for Msgr. Paul Jervis, so he took action. He established a group which comprised mainly of former altar boys from the Brickdam parish in Georgetown, who had migrated to the United States as adults. They were recruited as “Christian soldiers”, as it were, to fight a holy battle against the evil one and what was happening back in Guyana. They were honourable, Christian, Catholic men who were of different races. Men who did not turn their backs on what, for them, was a sacred and patriotic duty. As members of the various races of Guyana, their getting together was a firm testimony of what the people of God can achieve when working together with a clear objective and the Blessings of the Holy Spirit. Although at that time there were many unpleasant happenings going on between the races in Guyana, and the wicked one seemed to have been winning and causing quite a lot of confusion in Guyana, the prayers and good works of the people of God were gaining positive results. Many were actively engaging members of another race in peaceful and pleasant interactions. During the ongoing unease in the country, there were many obvious pleasantries between members of the two main race groups - those of African and those of Indian heritage. Quite a number could have been seen socialising and doing the things that the majority of decent people do, showing respect and love towards one another. There were also interracial marriages as before and other unions, most of which were unbroken by the on-going racial turmoil. Romantic love between the races continued. The foregoing was mentioned to have the current citizens of this nation realise, from Guyana’s contemporary history, that there must be no place for racial conflict in our beautiful Guyana and that such friendly interactions usually result in happier individuals and happier and more prosperous com-
munities. People need to know that in the short span of our lives, we as individuals and groups must work for our own happiness and the happiness of others. More recently the sub-motto of the country is “ONE GUYANA” which, in a way, is a shortened version of the official national motto of “One People. One Nation. One Destiny.” As such, no Guyanese should take the life of another fueled by racial hatred. When Guyanese die, it should be from natural causes. The reckless driving that continues on our roads and costs so many lives must be stopped. It can be stopped or at least greatly reduced if all drivers constantly bear in mind that a vehicle is not built to be a weapon of death. THE ANNUAL GUYANESE MASS IN NEW YORK That annual religious event, the Guyanese Mass in New York, brings together hundreds of Guyanese Catholics who are domiciled in New York and even beyond. The congregation is always made up of all the races of Guyana. The chief celebrant is usually a priest who resides in Guyana. Prayers are offered
nese reside. Guyanese were among those who benefited from the saintly life and deeds of Msgr. Quinn, who Msgr. Paul Jervis greatly admired. The Irish American priest did projects of which some Guyanese benefited. One was an orphanage in New York. In fact, when the first structure was burnt down by the KKK because it harboured non-white boys, Msgr. Quinn immediately rebuilt it. The book QUINTENCIAL PRIEST by Msgr. Paul Jervis, is important reading for those who want or need to learn more about the history of New York City. Msgr. Paul Jervis is one of my friends who died this year and is already missed by all who knew him. He passed in New York on October 5, 2023. May his soul rest in peace. ARTIST TONY PHILLIPS Another friend who died this year was the renowned artist Tony Phillips. As a talented artist, he was involved with painting the mural of the Guyanese heroes whose images adorn the inner roof of the Guyana Bank of Trade and Industry on Water Street, Georgetown. Although Tony Phillips was residing thousands of miles away in Melbourne, Australia, he always expressed his interest as well as concerns for what was happening in the land of his birth, especially at Christmas time. That resulted in my “Christmas in Australia” article, last year, in which I threw the spotlight on Guyanese residents in Melbourne and how they celebrate their Christmas holidays, Guyana style. Tony Phillips was one of the Australia-based Guyanese who provided me with much of the information recorded in my feature article. CYRIL BRYANT
Journalist Cyril Bryant, who was based in Canada for many years, established Paul Winston Jervis with Francis an Online blog that was Quamina Farrier, in New York, June 18, 2019. very popular worldwide. Although we were not very up for peace and prosperity in Guyana. The financial offer- close friends, we had known each other for many years. ings that are collected at the Masses are sent to Guyana for When he commenced his Online blog, he invited me to specific projects that are identified in advance. The Brickdam submit articles, which I did, occasionally, until his death. soup kitchen, which provided hot meals for many destitute His blog became quite popular, since it featured stories citizens daily, is one such ongoing project. However, on a and reports from Guyanese worldwide. That resulted in varying basis, repairs to churches and presbyteries have also them gaining a significant international readership. Over the years, Cyril Bryant also gave free promotion of the been done over the years. In his book QUINTENCIAL PRIEST, Msgr. Paul Jervis activities of Guyanese organisations in the Diaspora. He chronicles the work of the Irish American priest who worked is already greatly missed. in Brooklyn and Queens, New York, where many Guya-
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
I NEVER DREAMT OF A CASTLE
I am a dog! Do dogs have dreams? Can we make a wish for when we are left on the streets to find someone kind to give us a home? I had a home with not the best of comfort, care or food, but at least it was a home with a family. That changed one damp morning in December when somehow I found myself homeless. My owner, the man of the home, went for a ride on his bike and called me to run behind him. He usually took his bird on his early morning ride, but I never followed him far until this morning. He kept calling me to follow him and rode a good distance through several streets. My legs were beginning to tire, but I did not stop because I knew he would get angry. He finally rode across the road into an area with nice houses and a wide grassy playfield. He parked his bike and told me to play while he picked some grass for his bird. I did not want to play because I was too tired, but he shouted at me to go so I walked to the middle of the playfield where the grass was higher. I drank water from a small puddle and sat down, resting on the wet grass. I must have dozed off because when I woke up, it was quiet and there was no one around. I ran to where the man had parked his bike, but he was not there, nor his bike. I hadn’t heard him call, though I’m a light sleeper, a habit he had beaten into me so I could always be alert. Why did he not call for me? My heart sank as I realised he had left me alone in that strange place. I ran up to the road that led into that area, but it was so busy with traffic, and there were many streets across the road; I couldn’t remember where I had come from. How do I find home? I went back to the playfield and sat right in front, looking straight down the road so I could see when he would come back for me. I thought maybe he had to go somewhere for something important and he would return for me but it was starting to get dark and the rain came down. I had to find shelter but where do I go? I ran through many connecting streets, but no one’s gates were open. I managed to curl up against fences with concrete, parapets where the rain did not wet too much and sometimes under trees that offered some shelter. I was half-wet, cold and hungry and I cried to myself that night wondering why that happened. I know I hadn’t been a bad dog. Did he not want me anymore? As soon as it was morning, I went back to the playfield and waited until the sun rose high in the sky. By that time, I was re-
ally hungry, so I went back running through the streets, hoping someone would offer me some food. I hardly got any attention. People were in their homes or gone to work, and others were just passing by with their vehicles. No one stopped to assist a poor homeless dog until late in the afternoon when someone noticed, and some food was put out for me. I ate hungrily, but with the December rains, I had no shelter. Then, two days later, early in the morning, a lady from a house resembling a castle looked at me curiously as she picked flowers to fill a small basket. I knew my condition was bad- I was rugged and skinny, so I wasn’t sure she would be interested in opening her gate to a strange dog because she had a cute,
fluffy dog. She went inside with her dog, and my heart sank again, wondering if anyone would want me, for my owner abandoned me. But she returned a short while later with some food and asked a resident passing from the back street, “Is this dog lost?” The man did not know, and she asked again, “Did someone abandon him? He seems to be looking for his way home.” The man did not know, but I knew the answer, and since I couldn’t talk, I hoped that someone would soon realise that. The lady left the food under a white flowering tree just outside her gate and went inside, looking at me concerned. That gave me some hope. She began putting water and food daily and called for me whenever she did not see me. She called me ‘Doggo’, and I now recognised a new voice that was softer and kinder than my owner. The close neighbours, seeing her kind gesture, began putting out food too and a nice man from the back street who had his own dog, stopped often to give me treats. I was now getting enough food, hearing kind voices. The children ran and played with me, but no one opened their gates, so I was still in the streets with no place to call home with a family. From time to time, I would still stand in the middle of the playfield and look across the road with hope, but I guess the man was never coming back for me. Then, when I looked the other way, the castle-like house stood there like a dream and I wondered, “Could this ever be home?” It was the Christmas season, with the colourful lights, the merriness, children’s laughter and aromas of delicious foods. On Christmas Eve, the rain came down with a heavy drizzle. I was sitting under a short palm tree near a beautifully lit Christmas tree, waiting for the lady to call me for food. She had some friends over, and the time passed, but I waited. I was getting wet but didn’t feel like moving, tired of looking for shelter. Then I heard her voice, “Doggo!” Standing by the gate with her daughter, the food in her hand, she said, “Come in.” The gate was opened for me. I couldn’t believe it was actually happening. Joy filled my heart, for finally, I had a home and a new family for the new year.
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
2024 must be embraced with heightened awareness by those who earn through their artistic gifts EXPERIENCE has embedded the need to pay attention and be prepared towards some level of activism regarding one’s livelihood. Long gone are the egalitarian principles that deem natural the process of necessity that one’s engagement is necessary when discussing one’s interests. Some years ago, I read an interesting article in an old newspaper that brought some questions. The problem was that the event that had caught my interest had passed by then. I somehow assumed that at least some member of the group of creative people who were running businesses and earning livelihoods on their talents in Guyana would then know. Strangely, no one I had spoken to even knew that it occurred. I had presumed that one or the other would have an insight on what had transpired. It was based on a ‘Draft Cultural Strategy’ back in 2019. I was at the ERC then and was distracted by those duties. What had stuck, however, was by the time I had read the article, everything was over. I was concerned and presumed that some member of the organised Arts community at least would have been involved. To my surprise, most were unaware that this event existed. Recent calls yielded some memory of the event but none directly connected to the output of this important deliberation, that it was part of the 36th meeting of COHSOD - the Council for Human and Social Development. It is interesting that such a significant event, in title at least, could have thus commenced without a background of the micro institutions that exist in its focus agenda from member-to-member countries of CARICOM. This would have enabled clarifications towards directives to support its important agenda. Without groundwork, a strategic vacuum will exist towards any realistic effect without the imperative of the contributions of the mentioned functionaries of the creative institutions which should have been concluded as delegates if not then, sometime before, to be able to have some real insights to the subject. From experience, if indeed these authorities desire to have some clarity to be able to truly act, how can it be achieved without the direct engagement of the practitioners concerned, especially those who can make a significant presentation of their ‘functional timeline’? Too many projected interest gestures fall into mere events, void of impact as either inspiration, enlightenment, or support. Because the organisers would know that it is impossible for ‘all-knowing’ functional meritocracy to exist in the human world, so misrepresentation and wasted efforts will prevail. That is why both Art and Science have areas of
discipline; though at times overlapping, each field of execution must be engaged to articulate its contributions based on findings. The onus rests with the creative community to be aware towards its livelihood. The challenge rests not with the authorities’ expectations nor declarations about goodwill intentions. But from learning what we need to know towards marketing the products we develop, understanding the business of the arts, especially the legal aspects of engagements. We live in a country of copyists, pirates, and dishonest people. Many of them know the international laws and will destroy you because of your ignorance. This covers every creative area, including jewelry, clothing, design, architecture, toys, games and furniture, and especially popular culture music. If you think that tracks online are free, you will be surprised. But awareness must revolve around our regional organisations in groups contacting them and enquiring about their programmes to address existing potential, who still need enabling guidance towards full growth. Get online, buy literature on the laws of your talents. Regardless of the laws that Guyana don’t offer us, you need to give yourself a chance to know your options and where and how to act if the situation ever requires you to do so.
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
New Year’s... FROM PAGE II
brace ourselves for another year. Guyanese have their own ways of ushering in the New Year, and it is customary to welcome a brand-new year with a pot of cook-up rice with all the meats (trimmings). Some of us go to church to give praise and thanks, while others stay in and party the night away with family and friends. No matter how much we plan and project ourselves, we cannot predict what 2024 will bring, but it is best to remain hopeful. Once there is good health and strength, it will be your richest asset. Resolutions do not always come through, despite our efforts, but giving up is never an option for successful people and those doing their utmost to make ends meet. As we usher in 2024, it is with mixed feelings, based on your personal situation. One would craft their mind to cope with whatever comes their way, but whatever we do must be from the heart, and random acts of kindness don’t cost a thing. In 2024, we can be kinder to people, because we never know what they are going through. Most importantly, we should do things wholeheartedly, if we have to do something. It doesn’t matter how you start 2024; it is indeed a blessing to be alive, because many people did not make it to see a new year. As goals are set, change starts from within. Your attitude says a lot about you; a positive outlook on life goes a long way in self-projection. Remember, we are how we treat others, and in 2024, if we must, we can be good to ourselves by self-care, like going out to dinner alone once in a while, or stopping for an ice cream. We should treat ourselves more and enjoy the simpler things in life. Life is fragile, and often, we overlook what is really important and brings value to our lives, but it must be said, “Life is what you make of it. It starts with you. “ Happy New Year 2024!
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Inspiring holiday sentiments “MERRY Christmas and Happy New Year to a dear sister from another mother. I just feel compelled to say that, at this time, we are going to change the world. In fact, we will change the world’s understanding of Caribbean people through the portal of our fashion and style. We believe in our own style and show [sic] the world that we have a place internationally. We are the new world-style frontier people. “I want to say that whatever we had before was just a fragment of what I feel for you at this time. We have morphed into something inseparable and unmovable. Love is beyond the world. It’s larger than life. We are going to stick together till the end, affecting and transforming through the creative sector. “It wasn’t an accident that I met you, and certainly, it has changed and mutated into something really special. Not only you, but your children are part of my soul. I’m taking this day not just because it’s Christmas, but because it’s an appointed time for us to recognise that love, compassion, and empathy are everything. This is a time of renaissance, of new thinking and new beginnings. “I’m using this time to express what I feel, but I’m not limiting it to this time. I love you shamelessly, as I said before, and we are going to make a difference. We are going to change how people perceive us, how we perceive each other, how people perceive themselves, and how people perceive this part of the world. We’re using creative energy to do it because creative intelligence is the way of the future. Love you, my dearest Sonia Noel.” The above sentiments formed the best Christmas Day message ever from Richard Young, one of my best friends and more like family because my mom calls him her son. This message reminded me that I am making a difference and motivated me to continue to make a difference by partnering with people who desire to make a difference. A few days ago, I posted a pic (below) of Richard and me with the caption: “I am blessed to have a few genuine friends, and Richard Young is one of them. LOVE HIM SO MUCH.” It is a blessing to have a front row that will be honest with you no matter what. Having yes people around you will not make you a better person. I hope some other people receive similar messages for Christmas. How was your Christmas holiday? Mine was different, and I loved it! The plan was to exercise early, go visit my mom and work for a few hours. The email that provided some fuel for the day came from Lolona McDonald Fraser. “Life-changing experiences are often attained from meeting and interacting with people. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of meeting Ms. Noel. My life has not been the same since. It was the first time I had even heard of a Vision Board. When I researched the concept, I could not wait to attend the Vision Board Party. I don’t remember the date, but I remember feeling I had carried most of what I needed because I was determined to use the new experience fully. This was just at a time in my life
speakers, who [sic] I previously never took the time to listen to. Though the course has ended, my learning continues since I was guided to find the tools needed to continue on a path to confidence, self-love, and growth. I continue to look forward to this journey with Ms. Noel.” Miss Fraser has shared a few reasons why you should join the Vision Board parties in January and the next Confidence Becomes You in February, because you owe it to yourself to do better in 2024. I have already identified the programmes that will SEE PAGE XIX contribute to my growth journey
when it seemed I had lost my compass. Listening to other women sharing their experiences, first of all, made me realise that my situation could have been worse. Despite being an educator for over 24 years, this was the very first time that I was brave enough to share so much about myself with total strangers. It felt great. Today, I look at my vision board almost daily, since it is mounted in my closet and I must pass by it daily. Sometimes, I just rush past, but when I am not in too much of a hurry, I pause and do a mental review. I’m pleased with my progress so far. The Vision Board experience made such an impression on me that I signed up for the Confidence Becomes Me course. While it was a challenge completing and submitting the modules on time, the long-term benefits have been phenomenal. This course taught me so much about myself and taught me to look inward for the strength needed to face my challenges. It showed me that I was on a collision course to self-destruction, but it also provided me with the tools I needed to regain my footing. I was finally motivated to keep a journal. This exercise has been very calming to me. I was exposed to motivational
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
May the new year be the harbinger of peace, prosperity and achievement of aspirations to us all! THE departure of the old year and the arrival of the new year have always been commemorated in all civilisations, whether they used the solar or lunar calendar. The lunar New Year falls mostly in March/April while the solar is always on January 1, but whatever calendar they used, human beings, over the millennia, responded in essentially the same way to the passing away of the old year and the arrival of the new. There is, therefore, something inscrutable and mysterious regarding these anniversaries, which is explained by the symbolism of the various myths and traditions that have become attached to them over the millennia. Guyana, being a Western country, shares the same traditions as other Western countries at this time.
Old Year’s Day is treated as no other day in the year. It is treated nostalgically as the end of an era of one’s existence, and this feeling of finality calls upon us to have our accounts closed and all the various facets of our lives brought into order. Homes are again cleaned, and household furniture and equipment are renewed or refurbished as had been done for ‘Xmas’ and the Xmas decorations are still kept, but now, with a new meaning as they move into the New Year and must continue to stand for 12 days until the 12th night. Another Old Year’s superstition or tradition is that on the last night of the year, demons and evil forces make a last-ditch attempt to overcome human beings but are driven away by loud noises, and this accounts for the noisiness of Old Year’s night growing into an explosive crescendo at midnight. In the past, many churches had midnight mass on Old Year’s Night so that the faithful welcomed the New Year in the presence of God. Probably, the most enduring tradition of Old Year’s Night is the balls and dances, which erupt into loud noise at midnight, followed by the singing of the Scottish song Auld Lang Syne to welcome the arrival of the New Year. The arrival of the New Year is always regarded as the opening of a new era of existence when human beings are presented with a new opportunity to correct the failings and omissions of the past and move forward into greater creativity. Accordingly, this is manifested in making New Year’s resolutions, which are really an attempt at New Year’s planning. Such planning could include re-establishing contact with friends and relatives who could be lost forever if this is not done as Auld Lang Syne reminds us: make the effort of grappling with and eliminating the various things which we have kept putting off over the months and years and which will disastrously overwhelm us except they are brought under control. The technique of doing this is by living in the present, not dwelling on the past or future since they do not exist; the illusion of the past and future overwhelms us. This is one of the messages of Lord Buddha and is elucidated by the wisdom teacher Echart Tolle, whose offerings can be heard on the Internet. This method is also reinforced by the Stoic teaching of Marcus Aurelius, who tells us in his “Meditations” to live every day as if it were the last day of our life. These New Year resolutions we have mentioned so far are purely personal, but our homeland is in a very singular position unlike any other country in the world; it has suddenly become an oil-rich country which is working to fend off the Resource-Curse syndrome, and at the same time it faces an existential threat from Venezuela where Guyanese nationality is threatened. These two happenings, though strictly national, are so closely intermeshed with the personal existence of every Guyanese citizen that they have imperceptibly become subjects for personal resolutions of which we give two examples: First, “We resolve to enlighten ourselves fully with all aspects of the Guyana/Venezuela controversy and never to give succour, wittingly or unwittingly, to the enemy and to lend our unstinting support to those who are confronting the enemy”. And second, “We commit ourselves to learn about the workings of the oil economy and the activities which are being used to fend off the resource curse and the Dutch Disease and to critically examine them”. Guyanese have an interesting New Year to live through with the surety that the wishes and aspirations of peace and prosperity will materialise in their lives.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
Inspiring holiday ... FROM PAGE XV
in 2024 because for me to serve effectively, I need to equip myself. One of my Christmas gifts was a room at the Pegasus Corporate Suites. I checked in on the 23rd to be alone and in an atmosphere that would push my mind beyond boundaries. My first reaction was to draw the curtain to admire the view, and within seconds, I was inspired to revisit my vision board. The walk to the boardwalk was just a few minutes, and I sat on the sand for approximately an hour to meditate and enjoy the breeze. The deep breathing brought me calm, and I started to meditate, thinking about my vision beyond the vision. It is important to be present for these exercises and, most of the time, the best present in life in the present. The sand between my toes was therapeutic, and it reminded me of being back home in Bartica. My mind drifted to the massage I was scheduled for soon, so I returned to the hotel. A complimentary bottle of Chilean cabernet sauvignon arrived just before the masseur arrived, so I had a few sips. A two-hour massage from Benjamin’s Nature Spa was exactly what my body needed. I was not only working on my mind because the mind, body and soul have to be in sync. Two things I always take with me when I travel domestically or internationally are my bible and my prayer mat. They allow me to re-create my prayer corner away from home. I found the perfect spot in this beautiful executive to create that corner. My spiritual growth has elevated my life in a major way and I will continue to be intentional about growing more in that area and many others; they are reflected on my vision board. I have not watched TV in months and decided to watch the History Channel. The feature on Rawanda in Africa has reminded me why I need to visit soon. I was intrigued by the documentary, “Places that seem unreal” and I added money to my bucket list. Watching TV was worth it because now I am even more excited about the travel part for my vision board. I enjoyed the short walk to Sunday breakfast at the cafe, then stopping by to chat with GM before going chilling at the pool. I believe the rooms at Pegasus Corporate Suites can be ranked with hotels internationally. I am very proud of my Guyanese brother, Mr Badal, for his vision. I must commend Mr Montenegro and his team for understanding Mr Badal’s vision, because understanding people to execute can be a challenge. Travelling abroad is great, but fantastic to have a vacation in the city and make it memorable. Maybe just a day at the pool with your friends and forgetting the noisy world can benefit your mental health, which should be important to us all. Today is New Year’s Eve, and many people are preparing to ring in the new year in grand style or very simply. I plan to be with my Love and Faith, and I have been doing this for over a decade. What are your plans for New Year’s Eve? We are still in the season of giving, and last week, I mentioned some names that contributed to the gift and needed to add attorney Sammy Legall, a friend who had supported me over the years, from buying shirts and supporting missions such as Bread Basket and Gift of Confidence. As you make your goals for the new year, add or expand on philanthropy as we continue to celebrate this last day in 2023!
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THOUGHT FOR
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
TODAY
Thought for toda the road, and goin y: It is good to be out on g John Masefield (187one knows not where. 8-1967) - The Tew kesbury Road
December 31 2023 Study Success Dear student, Welcome, dear friend. Use comprehension strategies to identify an author’s purpose and to evaluate how
effectively he or she has achieved it. When dealing with magazine articles, examine their titles, illustrations and sample paragraphs, which are helpful. Readers, learn to bring along your own purpose for reading an article. Note that whatever a magazine article is about, your mastery of dealing with illustrations or photographs and their explanatory captions, and sidebars that contain additional, related information, is crucial. Be wise. Love you. The passage 1. Changing to a new paragraph Read the following extract carefully and then answer the questions using complete sentences. Note: Reasons - why writers change to a new paragraph: 1. To deal with a new idea To introduce a new main idea related to the overall main idea. 2. To expand main idea details To give additional information about one of the details of the previous paragraph. 3. To show a change of type of detail To show a change of time or place. 4. To give a direct quotation. Note: Techniques – how writers connect paragraphs: A. Signal clues By using a signal word or phrase in the beginning of a new paragraph. B. Looking-back clues By repeating a key word or idea from the last paragraph in the beginning sentence of the new paragraph. C. Looking-ahead clues By putting in a paragraph’s ending sentence a key word or phrase that refers to the main idea of the next paragraph. D. Dialogue format By using quotation marks to show the exact words of the speakers; by using dialogue labels to show the speakers’ thoughts, feelings, and actions. What to do: Each of the following sets of paragraphs was taken from an article about a famous athlete. As you read them, consider the answers to these questions: ● Why did the writer change paragraphs? ● How did the writer connect the paragraphs? First: Background: Marilyn Bell was 16 years old when she swam across Lake Ontario in September 1954. Overall main idea: Marilyn Bell had been an accomplished swimmer for six years before her swim across
Lake Ontario. Because of Marilyn’s youth and the comparative obscurity of marathon swimming, neither the newspapers nor the C.N.E. officials were aware that Marilyn had been an accomplished swimmer for at least six years. …. The coach at the pool, Alex Duff, asked her to join a group of junior swimmers called the Dolphinettes, who put on demonstrations to raise money for the Community Chest. Through Duff, Marilyn met Gus Ryder, a tough-minded, white-haired swimming coach who ran classes at Lakeshore Memorial Pool. Ryder invited her to join his swimming club, which, between meetings, taught children with disabilities to swim. “She was the most charming kid, thoughtful eager,” Ryder later recalled. “She had a sort of deep well, a kind of reservoir, and a tremendous loyalty.” Second: Background: Frank Budd was born with one leg smaller and weaker than the other. He started swimming to please his father. Overall main idea: Frank Budd won the title “world’s fastest human” despite a physical disability. When he became a student at Villanova College, still prodded by his father, Frank went out for the track team. He hardly impressed the school’s track coach as a future great. He ran with a pronounced limp. His right leg was smaller at the calf and thigh than his left. This was the result of a childhood illness that might have been polio. The coach prescribed a unique method of training to correct Frank Budd’s limping condition. Frank did weightlifting, and he ran up and down the seats of the athletic stadium wearing a 10 -pound vest. Write a feature story for your school magazine based on one of the topic sentences below: ● The motor vehicle is both a blessing and a curse. ● Superstitions are often based on people’s need to understand and explain nature. The passage 2. Kinds of convincing details This paragraph attempts to explain why steps should be taken to prevent the extinction of wolves. If you were a member of the Student Council, examine to see how convincing it is. Jot down your thoughts about the points put forward for consideration. List the details that you think are facts – that is, details that can be observed or proved. List the statements of personal belief. Share your thoughts with two other students in your form. Are you thinking the same? Do you have other ideas? Put them in a separate list for further discussion. But first, write down the topic, then write the main idea, and then give the topic sentence, before proceeding with the assignment. The paragraph: Steps must be taken to prevent the extinction of wolves. Many people think that wolves are enemies, but they are not. I’ve heard lots of wolves howling when I’ve been on camping trips, but I’ve never been attacked by one. I know that wolves kill animals like elk and dee, but they only do that to get food. Besides, they only kill the ones that are old or sick, and that keeps the herds in better condition. I’ve seen wolves at the zoo, and they look and act just like my German shepherd. I think it would be great to have a wolf for a pet. Some provinces still pay bounty hunters for wolves, and other provinces have a government poisoning programme. I think that’s too bad, so we’d better do something to stop people from killing wolves.
CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023
The Anxious patient
SHOW me someone who is not afraid of the dentist while sitting in the dental chair, and I will show you an elephant that can fly. The prevalence of dental anxiety is universal, and although a precise reason for it has not been scientifically confirmed, research is continuously being conducted to elucidate the phenomenon. One such study was recently conducted in Australia, and the results are believed to reflect a global blend. Many researchers believe that persons fear dental treatment simply because the sitting position they must assume in the dental chair leaves the patient subconsciously vulnerable and defenceless, unlike if they were standing. Others are fearful because they cannot see what the dentist is doing in their mouth, so they want to think it is the worst and most painful act. Dental anxiety has been reported to impact both dental status and the use of dental services. There is an association between dental anxiety and correspondingly greater levels of untreated oral disease and patterns of care provision, which were dominated by emergency treatment and irregular dental attendance. When two Australian scientists studied dental anxiety by using a long (1-2) hour semi-structured psychiatric interview, followed by a dental examination, the National Dental Telephone Interview survey (from a random sampling of telephone numbers by computer) and by using Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scale (13 points and above considered severe), they discovered the following: 1. The ‘dental phobics’ showed greater numbers of missing teeth, more loss of alveolar bone through gum disease, and greater denture use when compared with other subjects. 2. The adults had less natural teeth 3. Those with natural teeth had more missing and fewer filled teeth but did not differ in their number of decayed teeth. 4. They had four to five times the odds of needing immediate treatment for the relief of pain or infection. 5. The prevalence of dental fear was higher among those of lower education level and social class. Dental anxiety has also been shown to be associated with the avoidance of regular dental care. Evidence of the adverse health consequences means that estimating the prevalence and severity of dental disease may be important to dental public health. Individuals with high dental anxiety are likely to suffer greater impact from dental conditions, with significantly more toothache, discomfort, and avoidance of some foods. The condition may be a component in a cycle of dental disadvantage among individuals who are inflicted with it. The dental health status of the victims will progressively deteriorate unless the condition is overcome. It follows that dentally anxious individuals would be more likely to experience marked social impact from impairing oral diseases; that is, not only are they more likely to avoid care, they are more likely to need it, and they suffer the dental and social consequences of not seeking it.
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CHRONICLE PEPPERPOT ― Sunday, December 31, 2023