“CLIMATE CHANGE, ITS EFFECT ON POVERTY”

A simple ceremony was conducted in the school’s auditorium. The theme for this ceremony was “Climate Change, its effect on Poverty”. This ceremony collaboratively observed:
(a) World Disaster Reduction Day, which was observed on the 10th October, 2008
(b) World Food Day, which was observed on the 16th October, 2008
(c ) International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which was observed the 17th October, 2008.
The theme for World Disaster Reduction Day was “Hospitals Safe from Disasters”. This theme promoted the notion that when health facilities are damaged, health services are compromised.
The theme for World Food Day was ‘World Food Security: the Challenges of Climate Change and Bioenergy’. World Food Day aims to heighten public awareness of the plight of the World’s hungry and malnourished so that action will be taken to encourage people worldwide to take action against hunger.
The theme for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is ‘working together out of Poverty’. This theme seeks to highlight the need for a truly global anti-poverty alliance, one in which both developed and developing countries participate actively.
Climate Change has been increasing the severity and frequency of weather-related natural hazards such as storms, high rainfalls, floods and droughts. Further, the face of disaster risk has threatened global food security. This has contributed to global poverty.
Additionally, it should be noted that the following factors have also contributed to the threat to food security:
a. the boom in biofuels, especially ethanol made from corn, is another primary cause. The International Monetary Fund estimates that last year biofuels accounted for almost half the increase in demand for major food crops
b. the rising cause of fossil fuels, which has driven up the cost of fertilizers and other inputs farmers need, as well as transport and storage costs
c. increase demand for meat and diary products. These goods require vast amounts of grains to produce
d. lack of government investment in small-scale food production over the past decades has made it harder for farmers to take advantage of higher prices and produce more food .

The highlight of this ceremony was a donation of food and clothes to a representative of the Ruimveldt Children’s Aid Center.
Other highlights of this ceremony included:
a.a Poem entitled, “Food Shortage” by Sarina Kawall
b.the feature address by Mr. Gabriell Lall
c.a minute of silence for all of those persons who have succumb to hunger
d.a song entitled, “Heel the World” by Leticha Greeves and Jana Edghill
In closing, students were reminded to participate in the process of growing more food.

By Mr. Pompey

Prize Giving

On October 3rd, 2008, Marian Academy held its 9th annual Prize Giving Ceremony for the Secondary Department. Much enthusiasm was expressed by teachers, students as well as parents in sharing the achievements of the students in the 2007-2008 academic year.

When all invitees were seated, Mrs. Elona William-Frank extended a warm welcome to everyone. At that moment, Sr. Marie Harper O.S.U reported on the activity-filled year. Special mention was made of those students who represented the school in outside activities, including the E.P.A walk, which Marian Academy won. Sr. Marie also mentioned the athletically inclined students who had great achievements in their various sporting activities. Achievements of the school's various clubs, new teachers as well as inter-house activities were also reported. In mention of the CSEC results, Sr. Marie reported that among the 381 entries, 343 passed with Grades 1-3, 33 passed with grade 4 and 5 with grade 5. According to statistics, that gave a 90% pass of students who gained grades 1-3. She also made special mention of mathematics which gained 11 distinctions in the CSEC 2007-2008 results, revealing a total of 95% passes for Math. Well done Marian Academy!

The guest speaker for this prestigious event was Mr. Paul Braam, former president of the P.T.A. He gave a very lively yet well structured and interesting message.

Many talented acts were performed by the secondary students, including the school choir, the recorder group, a dramatic presentation from the play "Merchant of Venice" performed by Ms. Sarina Kawll and Mr. David Lowe and the very talented Ms. Hilary Bose played a piano recital titled "Le Coucou." The highlight, however, was a beautifully choreographed dance by the secondary dance group. Many proud Marian Academy Students received certificates for academic excellence and good conduct. Krysta Yan of Form 3F dominated the school by receiving the most individual subject prizes followed by Sarinna Kawall and Michelle Ford of Form 4F. The house who won the Academic trophy was Our Lady of Fatima and the champion house was our Lady of Lourdes. The champion of champions for 2007-2008 was Oliver Kear-Downes from our Lady of Lourdes. Co-curricular activities was given to the Environmental Club. Jonathon Beaton was awarded the willingness to serve award and Ms. Raeanna Clarke was awarded the 'outstanding school spirit' award, the highest award of Marian Academy. After all the prizes were distributed, the students all stood and proudly sang their school song.It is expected that the 2008-2009 academic will produce more successful students.

By Jana Edghill

Sports Day

Sports Day was held on September 25th, 2008. The event was held at the Everest Cricket Club. The day commenced with a march pass with the houses Coromoto, Fatima, Guadeloupe and Lourdes in pink, blue, green and white respectively. The fifth form pupils were selling snacks, ice cream, drinks and food in order to raise money for graduation and prom. There was music and commentary provided by Mr. Paul Persaud. The highlights of the day were the past male and female races, mother and father races and male and female teacher races. At the end of the day the winning house was announced: Lourdes, followed by Fatima in second and Guadeloupe and Coromoto in third and fourth respectively. The winner of the march pass was Our Lady of Fatima. The champion athletes were little Miss Georgiana Vyphuis and Nicholas Braithwaite. It was a good day and everyone enjoyed it.

By Andrew Peroune

International Peace Day

International Day of Peace serves as an opportunity for us to celebrate victories for peace that have been won throughout the year, and to foster a commitment for a more peaceful, just and sustainable world for the next year. Our Global village should act as a living instrument in the service of peace.

International Day of Peace was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. The first Peace Day was celebrated in September 1982. In 2002 the General Assembly officially declared September 21 as the permanent date for the International Day of Peace.

The resolution: "Declares that the International Day of Peace shall henceforth be observed as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence. This day is devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and people through the manifestation of living-saving activities.

A ceremony held on the lawns and basket-ball court of Marian Academy Incorporated was used as a living instrument in the service of peace to all people. The speakers at this ceremony were Bishop Francis Alleyne, Father Simon Bishop and Mrs. Sonia Gumbs of the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.). Other attendees at this ceremony were representatives from the school’s Board of Governors, Executive Members of the out-going and present Parent-Teachers Association Body and the Ursuline Convent. Additionally, Sister Ferreira, Sister Mendes, Sister Ward, Sister Mercedes, Sister Berkley and several parents participated in this capacity building initiative to chronicle a pneumia of peace.
Marian Academy’s life saving activity was a tree-planting activity. Trees are seen as a symbol for environmental protection and international co-operation in the fields of education, cultural diversity, tolerance and peace. Peace Pinwheels were inserted around the tree. The Peace Pinwheels were used as a symbol to inspire our communities to imagine whirled peace.
There were other semblances of peace that were incorporated into our tree-planting programme. These semblances were intended to provide opportunities to inspire and empower you to observe and celebrate victories for peace and for you to rededicate your commitment to work for a more peaceful, just and sustainable world. These semblances were as follows:
(a) the reciting of a Peace Poem entitled, “Path of Peace” by Sarina Kawall
(b) a minute of silence in observance of World Peace followed by the Peace Bell Ringing
(c) the insertion of Posters of Peace around an effigy of the “Blessed Lady of Lourdes”
(d) a dance entitled, “Love and Unity” by members of the Environmental Club
(e) the liberation of swallows, as a sign of Peace, by some members of the Prefect Body
Marian Academy has always been an active steward for peace by incorporating peace education into its programme. The Marian ‘family’ was the first community in Guyana to join the Global Peace Pole Project in honour of the World Peace Organisation that was founded in Japan after World War 11. In Fact, Guyana was the 181st country to become involved in this global initiative.

By Andre Pompey

Marian’s Tenth Anniversary Mass- A Knowledge of Miracle

This was a school that very, very nearly was not… Very, very nearly was not… To those who know the story, and the strange coincidences in history that went into its making for the last 161 years, to walk into that 14 September 2008 Mass which celebrated a decade of actual real existence, was to walk in with a sense of awe, an amazed wonder at miracle. It was proof that humans can be miracle-makers for others.
The cathedral was packed; good-tempered; cheerful; congratulatory.I whispered to another mother, whose child had also been there from the beginning in 1998: “Can you believe this!” She replied she remembered thinking as she walked in on the very first day, “Can we do this- what if we fail…”
But this was a school desired and gifted by a patient God, Himself a Father, and by the Mother of His Son.
I thought of that little boat, coincidentally - coincidentally?- named the Glenmuire (Glen of Mary), with six Ursuline nuns and two young postulants, whose aim was the education of young girls, which still set sail for British Guiana in 1847 from Ireland. Their involvement in education lasted until 1976, and then there was a twenty-two year break. But it were as if that little boat doggedly weathered out the storm- and then stubbornly continued sailing with its mission, right down the ages to dock at another glen, the Marian Academy.
Long dead, those eight women, sometimes near starvation and with cardboard and paper slippers to cover their feet, could not have guessed that 161 years later, a mother would still have been thinking of them and praying for them with gratitude, in a cathedral hung with banners and flowers, as three young girls from a school a mere ten years old sang the Ave Maria.

By Roxana Kawall

We Miss You Ms.Ried

It is with deep regret that we annouce the death of Ms. Grace Reid: 1st June 1948- 11th September 2008.

We mourn the passing of this most faithful and dedicated teacher. Ms. Reid served us at Marian Academy teaching English and Mathematics for only three years but in that short period of time, she became our mentor and more importantly a strong mother figure to many students. We all came to love her very much. This year she turned sixty and the Secondary teachers decided to throw her a surprise lunch. When she realised what we had done, we all came in for a good tongue lashing which was taken in true humour. Ms. Reid never liked a fuss so it was only natural that as her pain increased, she dared any of us to treat her as an invalid. No one even tried!! We will remember her words of encouragement, her true professionalism, dedication and the love she showed to her students.

We will miss her deeply and we all join in wishing her God's speed into His Kingdom for her rewards.

Our deepest condolences go out to her son Colis and the rest of her family. May she rest peacefully in God's arms.

The Marian Academy Family

First day of high school

On Monday, September first, a new school year at Marian Academy began. There were many anxious new students waiting to see what their first day at a new school would be like. The new first formers were the most excited, as they were entering into another segment of their life known as “HIGH SCHOOL.”

It was a little odd having different teachers for every subject instead of one permanent teacher. The students were introduced to new subjects such as French, Food and Nutrition, History and a few more. For the pupils who came from the Primary department, there were many new pupils to interact with. By the end of the first day, the first formers were exhausted but anxious to see what their next day of high school would be like.

By
Mariah Low & Arianne Chand

THE RETURN OF MARIAN - My experience of the First week at School.

After almost two months spent in utter laziness (except for those unfortunate third and fourth formers who were afflicted by school in July), the seven hundred or so of us Marianners somewhat grudgingly wended our way back to school, early AND late on September 1. Amidst some confusion amongst (at the VERY least) two students I happen to know-accompanied by random strolling in to classes that no longer belonged to students in question, continuously writing 4F instead of 5F, 3S instead of 4S etc., vituperating over the injustice of having to use upstairs washrooms ONLY and desperately trying to convince teachers that they WOULD mind having to mark home-work in the first week back in school-school re-opened. Marian was BACK, and it was as if we?d never left.
Sr Marie welcomed us back with good wishes and emphasised those good wishes with a few cross words (which we accept because familiarity breeds comfort, and since we?re quite familiar with her words, Marian wouldn?t be MARIAN if it weren?t for Sister?s alternatingly loving and Gentle reminders!!!!).
On the third day (no allusion really deliberately intended there), the prefects were officially arrayed for the general school body to see. We saw them.
After a week of feeling summer had never really happened, and of constant reminders that Marian would be celebrating her 10th birthday, (N.B. Marian Academy will be ten years old on the 14th September!) the first week was ushered out with our traditional Start-of-term Mass. Fr Simon Bishop, a Tanzanian priest of Irish and Scottish descent, who spoke with an English accent, helped us celebrate.
Thus the first week has been overcome and we shall prevail- only about three or so months to go!

By
Sarina Kawall

Marian Academy's 7th Graduation

June28th, 2008 was a day of mixed emotions for the 7th Graduating Class of Marian Academy. The Graduands, to be sure felt proud to have reached this milestone in their lives, but were also deeply regretful to be leaving such a fine institution.
The Graduation ceremony took place in the school's auditorium, where quite a number of people had gathered to view the ceremony.
The ceremony commenced with the entry of the Graduating class, accompanied by their form teachers, Mr. Lloyd King and Ms. Michelle Crawford. When the graduands were on the stage, all rose to sing the first and last verses of the National Anthem after which Tristana Roberts performed a dance entitled "A Journey's Thought".
Everyone was welcomed by the Principal of the school, Sister Marie Harper, O.S.U. The Opening Prayer was said by His Lordship, Bishop Francis Alleyne. There was a Scripture Reading by Rondell Enmore, taken from James 3:13-18, which was followed by a recorder rendition, entitled "Ave Maria". Gospel Reading was read by Rosanna Ferreira, which was taken from Matthew 5:13-16.A song entitled "When you Believe" was then performed by Hillary Bose and Letitcha Greaves.
Sister Marie introduced the Guest Speaker, Ronald Roberts, Ronald Roberts, former student of Marian Academy, who then gave a very inspirational speech to the Graduating Class, in which he mentioned how he proved discouraging teachers wrong, how far determination and hard work can get one, and, in general, gave much advice to the Graduands.
His Lordship, Bishop Francis Alleyne blessed the Graduation Rings and Certificates, which were then presented to each graduand by Sister Mary-Peter Ngui. After the Presentation of the rings and certificates, Valedictorian, Tysheon McGreggor reflected on his life at The Marian. He mentioned the many things Marian Academy has to offer, and expressed his sincere gratitude to those who helped him along the way. The Valedictorian's Reflection was followed by the Head Prefect, Mikhail Roberts' Reflection.
The Graduand's Prayer was then recited by all of the Graduands, after which the Deputy Head Prefect, Ashley Grant gave the Vote of Thanks.All of the graduands were the blessed by the Bishop, and the School Song was sung by all.
The ceremony was concluded by the Graduands leaving the stage, holding lit candles, whilst the Closing Song, "Go Light Your World" played.
At the end of the song, the Marian Academy Graduating Class of 2008 threw their Graduation Caps into the air.

By: Alexis Maharaj

Inter-house Football Competition

The Football Season kicked off here at Marian Academy a little behind time. The Inter-house Football Competition was organised by Bro.Banda SJ,the football culb co-ordinator.The tournament was scheduled to kick off on Saturday, 31st May, 2008, at 9:00 hrs however, instead it began on June 2nd at 3:30hrs. Tournament coordinators stated that the aim of these matches was to promote unity among the houses and healthy competition among youths.The teachers were just as enthusiastic about this event as the students were.The winning team was Our Lady of Guadeloupe, with Our Lady of Coromoto, Our Lady of Lourdes and Our Lady of Fatima placing second, third and fourth respectively.The best players was awarded to Ruel Ritch and Marzana Fiedtkou. Ravel Bhudu, Fernando Fernandez and Laurel Crawford all received honourable mention for goalie. Mr.Maharaj handed over the Maharaj 2008 cup to the winning team.■

Environmental Club in observance of World Environment Week

Guyana Environmental Week was observed from the 1st – 8th June, 2008 under the theme “Kick the Carbon habit! Promoting Energy Conservation in Guyana” This theme was adopted from the International 2008 World Environment Day theme: “CO2, Kick the Habit! Towards a Low Carbon Economy”.
On Sunday, 1st June, 2008, 63 members of the Marian Family, inclusive of the principal, teachers, students and parents, participated in the annual E.P.A. “Green Walk” that is organized by the Environmental Protection Agency under a banner that was prepared by the school’s Environmental Club. This event is geared to act as the principle vehicle to stimulate national awareness of the issue of “Energy Conservation”.
On Thursday, 5th June, 2008, World Environment Day was observed. Twelve members of the Environmental Club participated in tree planting activity in the National Park. The Rotoract Club of Georgetown organized this activity. The tree was seen as a symbol for environmental protection and international co-operation in the fields of education, cultural diversity, tolerance and peace.
The following day, members of the Environmental Club participated in a clean-up campaign within the school’s environs.
On Thursday, 12th June, 2007, the Marian Academy Environmental Club was successfully in organizing a ceremony in observance of the theme for World Environment Day. This ceremony was geared to empower the students to be active agents for sustainable and equitable management of our environment. This occasion was witnessed by the following special invitees:
(a) Mrs. Denise Simmons (Coordinator of the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences)
(b) Ms. Sumedeo Mahedo (certified botanist-Guyana Forestry Commission)
(c) Mr. Carlton Joao (Sales and Marketing Executive of Banks D.I.H.),
(d) Ms. Niki Mendes (Vice-President of the Parent Teachers Association)
During this ceremony, the coordinator of the Environmental Club, Mr. Pompey, presented Mr. Joao of Banks D.I.H. with with approximately 60 lbs of used Misty and Tropical Mist bottles. These bottles were accumulated from a recycling initiative that was launched by the club in observance of International Recycling Day.

By

Mr.Andre Pompey

Career Day 2008 at Marian Academy

On the 20th May, the third and fourth formers of Marian Academy had their annual Career Day in the school’s auditorium. This was the third former’s first experience of Career Day and the fourth former’s second. There were many speakers which enlightened the already inquisitive students.

The first speaker was Dr. Joseph; who spoke on medicine. Dr. Joseph is also a member of Parliament. The second speaker was a representative of the Government Technical Institute, who was also accompanied by Mr. Yearwood, the school’s part-time Technical Drawings teacher. Third speakers were the school’s very own Sister Juanita and Brother Banda. They both spoke on Vocation. They shared their stories and how they experienced their callings. Mr. Derek Frank; the third speaker explained to the students the basics of management and many useful tips. The fourth and the fifth speakers enlightened the students on teaching. Dr. Hunte, focused on the importance of knowledge of Information Technology and the need for it’s use. The fourth speaker, Mrs. Thomas was a representative of The Cyril Potter College of Education. She spoke on how normal people dedicated their lives to educating today’s children.

At the end of the seminar the students were given evaluation sheets to fill out. Most of them, at the end, had a better idea of what career or field they would like to choose.

Allana Bose.

Marian Academy hosts EPA forum

The Environment Protection Agency, EPA held a forum in the school’s auditorium. A few students were selected by the Mr. Pompey, the school’s science teacher, to represent the school. Also students from other schools were invited to be a part of this auspicious event. There were presentations on important issues affecting our environment and steps as to how we can help save it. Nearing the end of the event students were given a crossword puzzle to decipher. Marian Academy did well in this most of them acquring full points!!!!

Allana Bose

Open Day 2008

On May 23rd, 2008, Marian Academy once again held its annual Open Day event. Parents were given the opportunity to see what their children have done during the school year.Students from both primary and secondary got a chance to portray the knowledge they have with enthusiasm and joy as they explained and illustrated their work, through posters and models. Students showed great interest in the Open Day and were seen zealously interacting with parents, enlightening them with the things they have learnt.The second formers enhanced their History corners by displaying magnificent models of sugar plantations. Third formers impressed parents with their Information Technology skills by presenting slideshows depicting the dangers of deforestation and pollution.Several scrumptious dishes were prepared in the Food and Nutrition corners by the students themselves.However, the highlight of the secondary department was the intriguing working models of a waterfall and a river presented by the fourth form students. These ingenious presentations attracted lots of parents as well as fellow students, who wrote positive remarks about them in the guest book

By Jana Edgill
__________________________________

Open Day Primary

On the 23 rd May Marian Academy had there open day.In the primary section the primary 1[one] topic was Science,this was based on the solar system.On Social Studies they had the ethnic groups of Guyana.On Math the had solids on display.This was very well done by primary 1[one].
Primary 1[two] There topic was Science,Social Studies,Math and English.This class had assignments on display for onlookers to look through.This class was very well done.
Primary 2[one] There topic was Science,Social Studies,Math and English.There were assignments on display for onlookers.On Science there mixtures for onlookers.On Math there were solids and on Social Studies there was transportation. This class worked very hard on there open day.
Primary 2[two] There topic was Science,Social Studies,Math and English.They had different topics in Math for example decimals and averages.There were many other topics on display.This class did there research for there open day.
Primary 3[one] There topic was Science,Social Studies,Math and English.On Science there was thermometers and circuits on display.On Social Studies there was the different ethnic groups.This class worked very well.
Primary 3[two] There topic was Science,Social Studies,Math and English.They had thermometers on display.On Social Studies they had the different ethnic groups.Very well done.
Primary4[one] There topic was Science.They had some projects on display this was the filter bed the eclipse of the moon and sun they had circuits and charts on harmful drugs.This class worked very hard.
Primary4[two] There topic was Science,Social Studies and Math.On Science they had thermometers and circuits.On Social Studies the different ethnic groups.They worked very hard on there open day.
The primary art room.On the blackboard there were Mashramani masks on display.Some children displayed some head dresses and dolls had on some Mashramani clothing on.There were sculptures of spongebob,Gary,Plankton,Kraby Patty, jellyfish and a Marian child done with the technique of paper mache .the primaries worked very hard on this.

By Bernard Mc David and Markel Mangra.

Badminton Junior Finals

The West Indian Sports Complex Junior Tournament which started on Monday 12th of May at the Queens College Badminton Courts concluded on Friday 16th of May. Marian Students participated in the competition and the results were as follows:

Under-13 Girls Singles Finals:
Tashana Lowe defeated Priyanna Ramdhani: 21-14,21-14
Third Place went to Mariah Low who defeated Lydia Alphonso:21-16,21-12
Under-13 Boys Singles Finals:
Narayan Ramdhani defeated Andrew Peroune: 21-2,21-8
Third Place went to Amand Alvis who defeated Stanley Ming: 22-20,18-21,21-17
Under-15 Boys Singles Finals:
Jason-Ray Khalil defeated Narayan Ramdhani: 21-14,21-9
Third Place went to Christopher Persaud who defeated Armand Alvis: 21-19,21-17
Under- 17 Girls Singles Finals:
Ashley Khalil defeated Anissa Rodrigues: 21-10,21-14
Under- 17 Boys Singles Finals:
Avian Rodrigues defeated Nicholas Ali: 21-18,21-19
The Presentation was made after the Finals by Mr. Imran Khan of the West Indian Sports Complex to the 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners. Also NSC Chairman, Mr. Conrade Plummer made the closing remarks to the players and on-lookers. The GBA would also like to thank Mr. Paul Hohenkirk, Mr. Mark Chang, Mr. Lester Alvis and Ms. Nafezza Rodrigues for their contributions at the finals.

• (The highlighted names in italics are Marian Students)
  

Modern Language Festival

On Wednesday 14th May, 2008, pupils from the Preparatory Division participated in the Modern Language Festival on co-llaboration with (GAMLAT) - Guyana Association of Modern Language Teachers.The festival took place at the National Cultural Centre on Homestead Avenue at 10:30 am. Our pupils did a medley and a poem in Spanish. At the end of their cultural items, the pupils exclaimed, "We did it!!!" Ariel Haynes, a fifth former won third prize for her essay in French and was awarded with a trophy which was received by Mickelly Rahaman from Preparatory B-3.

By Sr.Leonie DeCosta

Spelling Bee Competition

On the 14th May a Spelling Bee competition for grade 5 students was held in the auditorium of Marian Academy.It was sponsered by Rotaract . The children who participated in the competition from Marian Academy were: Nadine Innis from primary 3[two],Andrew Fileen from primary 3[one] and Fabian from primary 3[one].Omar Britton was knocked out on the 1st round,Andrew Fileen on the 4th round and Nadine Innis went into the spelloffs.

By:Bernard Mc David.

Marian Fair 2008

When interviewed by two members of the Journalism Club about what our Principal, Sister Marie Harper thought about the fair these were her responses: she believed that the crowd had grown when compared to last year's Family Fun Fair, that the fair had receieved great advertisement, the entertainment was clean and well-suited for the occassion and that there was no need to worry about safety since security was well provided. Our Principal, Sister Marie, appreciated the fact that there was no anti-sociable behaviour among the attendees. She realised from observation that there was not a great change in the atmosphere when compared to last year's fair. She also noticed similar faces and congradulated all the students who worked together with teachers and parents in order to make their stall and the fair in general a success. She rejoiced when she saw co-operation between adults, adolescents and children, all aiming at one particular goal and putting their effort into what they were striving for. Sister Marie was also very pleased to see the number of past students who returned to lend a helping hand as well as the number of persons who worked in stalls and yet did not have any connection with the school. But her overall report was that she was having an enjoyable time and the fair was going great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Views of the Attendees

When asked about their views on the fair a wide variety of responses were given. Many believed that the fair was fun, excellent, cool, good, alright, great, that there were great sales, and a great turnout, that it was fantastic, that there was a great response to the promotion of the fair and that the games were good, excellent and fun. But although most of the views were good there were also some negative views on the fair as well. However, many parents suggested that the fair should have gone on a bit later and that for a children's fair, the food should not have been so expensive. But overall they were well pleased at the turn out and the enjoyable time they all were having. Generally, they believed that the fair was successful. Good Job Marian Academy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-Raeanna Form 3(f)

Attrations of the day

The attractions at the fair were really successful - they surely did attract! Many young children and adults enjoyed the modest ferris wheel which had the longest line. Their screams could be heard around the softball ground. Another success was the jumping castle which attracted numerous little children, even secondary students in upper classes and graduates of Marian academy! These two attractions plus the donkey cart rides were the main attractions at the fair.The donkey cart was ridden by adults, teens, toddlers and children alike, and proved to be quite an unusual experience.
There were a variety of food and drinks on sale. Many classes' stalls sold food - ranging from cakes to pastries, puddings to meals. The bar was in the center of the ground and was very busy from the beginning of the fair. Beer, soft drinks, juices and water was sold, however, the biggest seller was ice-cream. There were sundaes, ice-craem sandwiches and popsicles. Almost everyone was seen savoring some form of ice-cream.
The raffle was drawn and announced by Mr. Lloyd King. Those winners at the fair were ecstatic and didn't hold back in expressing their surprise. Some of the prizes won were: a gold bracelet and two bicycles. Overall the diverse activities and interesting games made the fair an absolute sucess.
-Krysta Yan


A Few Reports on the Stalls

Ice Cream Stall [Primary 2-1]
The ice cream stall was located by the food stalls at the gate in a fairly large white tent with a cream coloured sign displaying the name. The popsicles and ice cream were kept in a cooler so thatt they would not melt. The stall was mangaged by two person: Ms. Debra Skeetes - a parent and Ms. Wauneta Fernandes - primary 2-1's class representative. This stall attracted a very large crowd and was so crowded that i could not get any ice cream for myself. The food stalls are always very popular.

Nerve Busters Stall [Primary 2-2]

The Nerve Busters stall was situated some distance from the ice cream stall and next to the stall which housed the game Stepping Stones. It comprimised a big tent with three tables under it. There was one person at each of the tables: Ms. Collins - our primary co-ordinator at one and Mr. Ryan Smason - Primary 2-2's class representative at one table and parents at the other two. On these tables were three Nerve Buster games. In this game there is an open circuit connected to a battery and bulb.There is a small object with which the player holds in the hand and has to move along the circuit without touching it. If you touch the circuit it will close and a bulb will light uop, if you touch it five times you lose the game. Although this game requires much skill and can be difficult, it still attracted a large crowd.
The fair, as a fund raising event, was quite enjoyable and the Ice-cream stall and the Nerve Busters stall both played a part in helping to make it a success.
-Althea McDavid

Ball In The Mouth Stall – Primary 3(1)
The Ball In The Mouth Game is a game where you try to get a ball into one of a few holes on the face of a clown. It is not such an easy task for the average child. Though at times there was a little crowd buildup, the wait was not long at all.

Cake Stall - Primary 3(2)
The Cake Stall looked like the stall that made the most profits. There were many varieties of treats such as buns, pastries and many various kinds of cakes, of course. The prices were very reasonable and at all times, there were many people waiting to purchase at the stall. By the end of the fair almost every food item at the cake stall was sold out.

-Mariah Low

The prep clases had a stall that added much more fun to the fair

Stepping Stones -Prep A(1) Headed by Teacher Sharon.
First you are measured.Then someone shows you which path to go to.If you are taller than the sign,you need to step on the stones with an umbrella and the bell.In order to win a prize,you need to step on all the stones without making the bell ring.

Clothes Pins-Prep A(2) Headed by Mrs Coxall.
In order to win a prize in the game, you must try to take as many clothes pins as you possibly can in just one hand.

Shy The Tin-Prep B(1)Headed by Mrs Camacho.
In order to win a prize, you must hit all the tins down with three balls.
Prep B(2)
Face Painting- Prep B(2)Headed by Teacher Uunika.

Mr. Wilkinson, our Art Teacher assisted with the face -painting in this stall.
Prep B (3)
Take A Pick- Prep B(3)Headed by Teacher Gillian
The prizes are rolled in pieces of paper and placed on a cardboard to be picked. Everyone wins a prize in this game.

-Noel Shewjattan

Distribution of Conduct and Good Work Badges

On Wednesday, 9th April, Marian Academy distributed conduct and good work badges during the daily assembly. Conduct Badges are distributed to students whose conduct rating was an average of 9.7 and up from the past term. Good Work Badges were distributed to students whose average term percentage was 76 and above. Students who received these badges were called according to their houses, Our Lady of Guadeloupe, Our Lady of Coromoto, Our Lady of Fatima and Our Lady of Lourdes. The houses were awarded points by the students who received badges. As Sister Marie Harper called out the students to receive their badges, which were distributed by the house co-ordinators, the students showed mixed emotions. Sister Marie Harper and the assembly congratulated them with a healthy round of applause. The presentation concluded with the results of points awarded to each house. Sister Marie ended the assembly by encouraging all students to aim for good conduct and good work badges. The persons who received both badges were sent off stage first, and then the rest of students followed.
By: Kerri Yan

Commonwealth Day Ceremony

Commonwealth Day is celebrated on the second Monday of March every year.
Today, 10th of March, 2008 Commonwealth was observed in Marian Academy.
There was a procession of flag-bearers, pupils of Forms 2-1 & 2-2, who presented the Commonwealth countries and the years they became part of the association. It was beautiful to see all the different colours of the waving paper flags.
After the presentation, our very own history teacher Ms. Hemmie Glasgow read the Commonwealth message. Following, was special invitee Mrs. Mahadeo, a frequent visitor to Marian Academy explained the goals and achievements commonwealth wishes to accomplish in Guyana and other joint countries.
Mr. Andre Pompey, our Science teacher, covered the cake with icing when he presented a marvelous vote of thanks. Just after, the special invitees were escorted off stage.
Throughout the years Commonwealth Day has been observed in Marian Academy, this was probably the best.

By
Praneeta Persaud
Form 2-2

Report II

Today, the tenth of March, Commonwealth Day was acknowledged at Marian Academy. Commonwealth Day is recognised and commemorated on the second Monday in March every year. The Commonwealth ceremony took place in the school's auditorium with the gathering of teachers and students from both Primary and Secondary department at approximately 10:00am.The ceremony began with the singing of the National Anthem by all the attendees. Next, there was an opening prayer by Mr. Lloyd King who happened to be the Master of Ceremonies for this interesting event. There was a procession and display of the Commonwealth Flags by the students of Form 2(1) and 2(2) who enlightened us on the years these countries became members of the Commonwealth. Ms. Hemmie Glasgow gave the Commonwealth Day message which encouraged the conservation of our forests and the environment in general, also taking into consideration our future. Remarks were made by the guest speaker Mrs. Sumedeo Mahadeo (Botanist-Guyana Forestry Commission). She also congradulated Marian Academy on our full support in Forest Preservation. We then had an interpretive dance by a member of the dance club and a musical rendition(Song of Guyana's Children) was done by four students of Form 3(F). Mr. Andre Pompey gave the vote of thanks and the ceremony was called to a close with the singing of the School Song. Over all this ceremony was great and interesting!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By

Raeanna Clarke

Form 3(F)

Marian Academy’s 2008 Debating Competition

This year’s debating competition was held in Marian Academy’s auditorium. The judges were Mr. Pompey the school’s Biology and Chemistry teacher, Mr. Charles the Geography teacher for the school and special invitee, Mr. Andrew Mendes.
This year’s moot was “A booming lumber industry is more beneficial than the preservation of our forests.” Our Lady of Guadeloupe as the proposition and Our Lady of Fatima as the opposition. Guadeloupe sent up Pascale Mendes as their first speaker, Krysta Yan as their second speaker and Mary Fung-a-Fat as their third speaker. While Our Lady of Fatima produced Prineeta Persaud as their first speaker, Jairo Rodrigues as their second speaker and Jana Edghill as their third speaker. Also Our Lady of Coromoto was the opposition and Our Lady of Lourdes the proposition. Our Lady of Coromoto sent forward Denesha Smith As their first speaker, Raeanna Clarke as their second speaker as their second speaker and Ashley Perune as their third speaker. Our Lady of Lourdes produced Kelicia Daniels as their first speaker, Meshach Pierre as their second speaker and Kia Beharry as their third speaker.
The teams battled for an hour with the following results; Our Lady of Guadeloupe with 200 points and Our Lady of Fatima with 215 points. The Best Speaker was awarded to Jana Edghill from Our Lady of Fatima. And Our Lady of Coromoto securing the victory in their round with 239 points and Our Lady of Lourdes defeated with 205 points. The Best Speaker was awarded to Denesha Smith from Our Lady of Coromoto.
In the senior division the moot was a more challenging one; “Cigarette smoking is more environmentally friendly than industrial development.” In the first round Our Lady of Lourdes faced Our Lady of Guadeloupe. Our Lady of Guadeloupe sent up David Lowe, Sarina Kawall and Vashkti Baksh as their 1st, 2nd and 3rd speaker respectively. While Our Lady of Fatima produced Micha Barton, Michelle Ford and Joseph Persaud as their 1st,2nd and 3rd speakers respectively. Our Lady of Guadeloupe stole the victory from Our Lady of Lourdes with 264 points and Our Lady of Lourdes scored 261 points. The Best Speaker was awarded to Aimara Pierre from our Lady of Lourdes. Meanwhile Our Lady of Coromoto accepted defeat from Our Lady of Fatima. Fatima scored 247 points while Coromoto scored 243 points. The Best Speaker was awarded to Michelle Ford from Our Lady of Fatima.
Overall, in first position was Our Lady of Coromoto with 482 points, in second position was Our Lady of Guadeloupe with 464 points, third position, Our Lady of Lourdes with 466 and Our Lady of Fatima with 462 points.

By

Allana Bose

Marian Academy’s 2008 Elocution Competition

Marian Academy held its annual elocution competition. The school’s houses took part in this competition. For the junior round of the competition, Our Lady of Fatima sent up Tiffany, Our Lady of Guadeloupe produced Samaria Deonauth, Our Lady of Lourdes sent Kimberly Camash and Our Lady of Coromoto produced Raeanna Clarke. In the senior round of the competition Our Lady of Guadeloupe sent up Tianne Anderson, Our Lady of Fatima produced Natasha Best, Our Lady of Coromoto sent Shaunée Thompson and Our Lady of Lourdes sent up Sophia Bess.
In the junior round, in first position was Our Lady of Coromoto, in second position was Our Lady of Guadeloupe, in third position was Our Lady of Lourdes and in fourth position was Our Lady of Fatima.
In the senior round, Our Lady of Coromoto snagged first position, in second position was Our Lady of Lourdes, in third position was Our Lady of Guadeloupe and in fourth position was Our Lady of Fatima.

By

Allana Bose

Marian Academy’s 2008 Republic Day Celebrations

Marian Academy’s Annual Mashramani Concert was held on the 22 nd of February, 2008 in the school’s auditorium. This year’s theme was “Let’s work together and celebrate in 2008.” The concert has been going strong for many years and has always been chair manned by the fifth formers, who always do an excellent job. The classes always awe the audience with their various performances, be it dance, song or poetry.
The opening ceremony of the concert was one to remember this year; it began with a parade by the Marian Academy drummers. All four verses of the National Anthem were sung in accordance with the Republic Day celebrations and a prayer was said by the school’s English teacher, Brother Banda. Also, Mashramani was defined by student Ashley Khalil and then the concert was declared open.
The little nurseries never cease to amaze us with their performances. Many of their classes dressed ethnically for the occasion and sang a variety of songs; the crowd was supportive and cheered the young ones on. They were also acrostics performed by the nurseries, they represented Mashramani and Guyana. Also the Marian Academy Dance Club was spectacular in their performance where the secondary students were on the stage, while the primary students entertained the audience by moving through them. They were a few technical difficulties but the performance managed to go on. Also the primary four students shocked the crowds where the boys and the girls performed; this was a first for the spectators. The primary choir sang “My Guyana Eldorado” from within the crowds; this year’s concert was indeed full of surprises! They were many other wonderful performances; too numerous to mention.
We can all agree that this year’s Republic Day Celebrations was greatly enjoyed by all those who spectated and presented. Hopefully next year’s celebrations will be bigger and better.

By

Allana Bose

Marian Academy Blood Drive

On St. Valentine's Day, 14th February, 2008, Marian Academy hosted the first blood drive by a school in the history of Guyana. This drive was in collaboration with The Guyana Red Cross and The National Blood Transfusion Service. The idea of hosting a drive at a school was to educate the children on the importance of giving blood and on how they could be a hero by simply encouraging someone else to donate blood or volunteer with a blood drive.

This resulted in 99 family members and friends of our school's students and teachers being prepared to give blood and a total of 77 units of blood being collected, the largest blood drive in Guyana!The Principal along with teachers and 19 students were all donors on that wonderful day!

Family members also donated enough snacks to feed the donors and to supply Red Cross for a few more of their monthly blood drives.

The school received a plaque of achievement and three certificates were distributed as follows:Child that had the most donors: Mickelly RahamanHouse that had the most donors: Our Lady of GuadeloupeClass that had the most donors: 4/F

Other than the plaque and certificates, a few people were specially thanked but there were so many more that the list would have been too long to mention every one. The students played a huge role from beginning to end, the seniors made decorations and posters, and helped with the organisation, the primary made beautiful 'thank you' for our donors.

Through this drive we hope to achieve the education of life saving! A life savers club will be formed at Marian academy of which over 50 senior students have already shown interest. This will begin in the new term.

We look forward to next year when we can do this again with much more experience!!!

By

Mrs.Nicky Mendes