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Times March 16, 2014
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Deepika Padukone recalls her childhood Holi See story on page 14
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Celebrating the sacred festival of Phagwah
2 Times Sunday Magazine
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March 16, 2014
Times Feature
The Sabha sends out admonition on celebrating the sacred festival of Phagwah
Dharmic Nritya Sangh dancers will be at Everest
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The massive crowd that usually turns out to Holi Utsav
ince its inception, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has initiated, crafted and sustained diverse programmes and events, which have catered to the needs of Guyanese. One such event is its annual Holi Utsav. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Dr Vindhya Persaud, daughter of the Sabha’s founder Reepu Daman Persaud, said when the Kendra, the original venue of Holi Utsav, was opened in 1991, it had the distinction of being the first Hindu academy in the Caribbean. Last year, she
mentioned, the Kendra was refurbished after 21 years and continues to be the hub for training people from all walks of life. Classes are offered free of charge, which has been the same since it opened in 1991. In addition to being a training centre, the Kendra hosts many of the Sabha’s activities such as the Holi Utsav, Phagwah Mela and Bazaar, and Kala Utsav, including a number of conferences and seminars. “Usually after the Holi Utsav is finished, there is a lot of cleaning and repairing. However, this is not the reason why we have decided to move the celebrations to
the Everest Cricket Ground. The number of persons coming out to the celebrations has increased over the years, so we thought it best to move it there. Last year was our first year there and we had a tremendous response. Although the venue has changed, the actual format of the event’s activities has not,” Persaud explained. This year’s Holi Utsav, at Everest, will start from 3pm on 17 March. Admission is free and no alcohol is allowed. Other than the entertaining cultural programme, there will be performances by the Dharmic Nritya Sangh, Caribbean Hotshots
Band and top Guyanese singers. Additionally, chowtaal singing, tassa drumming and colour throws will be enjoyed throughout the afternoon. There will also be delicious sweetmeats and other delicacies to enjoy. “Phagwah is celebrated by all; no one is excluded or confined in any way. We see people from all ethnic backgrounds and religious beliefs celebrating with us. As people celebrate Phagwah, there are certain things that the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha would have been reiterating over the years. When you’re playing, do so the right way. Don’t throw people in trenches; don’t play with people who don’t want to play; respect people’s wishes. We should remember the struggles of our fore-parents to keep this festival alive in a way that is prescribed. So don’t deviate from that,” Persaud admonished. She continued by saying that the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha views Phagwah as a sacred festival and so it should never be polluted with alcohol. Persaud cautioned persons who use the name ‘Phagwah’
to advertise any event to ensure it is alcohol free. “There are a lot of events using the names Holi and Phagwah that are not in keeping with the guidelines of the event. They have associated our festival with vulgar things and we’re asking people not to use those names when keeping such events. Just as you respect your own festivals you
should respect others too. This is not a fete; it is joyous and celebratory time and so do it in the right way. Don’t defile it or degrade it by associating it with vulgar things. Phagwah is a unifying event and we want to keep it that way. On behalf of the Dharmic family, I want to wish all Guyanese Subh Holi!” Persaud declared.
Share the love at Holi Utsav
Having fun with colurful powder at the event
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March 16 , 2014
Times Sunday Magazine
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Times Focus
INSIDE US-based Guyanese author pens childhood memories of Phagwah Pg 4
Star of the Week
Seth Rogen calls Justin Pg 12 Bieber ‘obnoxious’
Persons, from all walks of life, celebrating Phagwah at last year's event
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nited Phagwah/Holi Celebration (UPHC) was founded in South Florida in 2013 by Trinidadian Denyse Baboolal. It comes under the umbrella of Jayadevi Arts Inc, a non-profit organisation preserving, promoting, educating and uniting Indo-Caribbean arts and culture from Trinidad, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname and other parts of the Caribbean. “Coming from New York and experiencing one huge and growing Phagwah parade for 18 years, it was disheartening to discover Phagwah in South Florida and the traditional and cultural essence of the celebration being distorted. In South Florida, some mandirs and organisations are hosting Phagwah as a coloured powder fete or party with heavy
Mineral hints at bright blue rocks deep Pg 19 in the Earth
Chef Kester Robinson -The artistic mind of a culinary expert Dance performances by the JayaDevi members will be a feature at this year's event
Singers entertaining the audience at last year's event
drinking, chutney, soca reggae, hip-hop music, neglecting the fact that it is a religious and cultural celebration. After experiencing this for two years, I sought the guidance and blessings from the New York Phagwah Parade, Dr Dhanpaul Narine, Roy and Ramona Singh who assisted me in making this mission a reality,” Baboolal recalled in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine. According to Baboolal, UPHC is gong mainstream by reaching out to the American audience to educate and promote Indo-Caribbean culture and to show them “the correct way Phagwah is celebrated”. UPHC, Baboolal pointed out, showcases Guyanese artists and is predominately supported by Guyanese attending and singing in the cultural programme. At the event, Baboolal noted that all, including the Guyanese community, are encouraged to “learn about their forgotten past and the younger generation will
Pg 7
be able to understand the traditional way Phagwah is celebrated, so it can be appreciated and preserved”. “I have been exposed to the Guyanese culture in New York by Faiuze Ali in college, then through the custodians and master teachers of arts and culture. I have studied the dance, arts and culture for 18 years with the Rajkumari Center under the tutelage of the late great Gora Singh, renowned kathak dancer, Pritha and Radha Singh - all Children of the late Guyanese Rajkumari Singh. I have performed as a dancer and actress at Guyanese celebrations in New York and Washington and was given the title of an Honorary Guyanese by Ambassador Baney Karan and the late president Cheddi Jagan when he visited. As executive director and founder of Jayadevi Arts, it is my passion to preserve, promote and educate the world on IndoCaribbean arts and culture, including from Guyana,” she declared.
The cultural arts advocate also stated that Jayadevi Arts will be making history in South Florida with the first IndoCaribbean festival ‘Kitchrie’ - a musical dance drama showcasing Guyanese ‘Taan’ style classical singing accompanied by Rajdhar style dancing. “At last year’s UPHC event, there were about 2,000 attendees, not including the five General Counsels, vendors, artists and businesses. From the feedback I got from the media and Facebook, I can safely say everyone was thoroughly overwhelmed. The entertainment was clean and relevant to the occasion and quite entertaining. Overall, it was a successful event,” disclosed Baboolal. At this year’s upcoming event, all vegan vendors will set up early with no al-
Tassa drummers
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cohol on the premise. The cultural program will begin with local artists and mandir youth groups singing bhajans (religious songs), Phagwah songs and dancing, as well as Chowtaal singing. Top dance schools, Champa Chameli Dance group and Jayadevi Arts, will be performing amazing Phagwah dances. The event will also feature two tassa groups. Trinidad's Neeshan D ‘Hitman’ Prabhoo and Guyana’s ‘Baboo’ Terry Gajraj will entertain the audience with Phagwah songs. “The Broward County mayor, state representative, Broward County Diversity Advisory Council, Trinidad and Guyana Consulates are also invited. Admission to the event is free. We anticipate the event, in its second year, will be more successful than last year’s. All are welcome!” she outlined. For more information on this event, visit JayaDevi Arts Inc. on Facebook.
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Times Sunday Magazine
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March 16 , 2014
Times Feature
Author Jag B Mahadeo
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eminiscing on the joys of celebrating Phagwah in Guyana, prolific US-based Guyanese author Jag Mahadeo, from No. 66 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, wrote The Heart of the Sun to share his fond childhood memories with others. In an interview with
Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, the author said, “I had written many of the stories in 'The Heart of the Sun' over the course of years. Then it struck me that the time, place and environment during which the stories took place no longer existed. Time had moved on, places had changes and the
best of No. 66 Village had long gone. Since most kids at the time can relate to the stories, I decided to put it all in a book to make it documented and everlasting, which others can turn to relive their own childhoods and memories of Guyana.” The book gives a glimpse into the Hindu culture
when author talks of playing Phagwah in his boyhood days. “...On the next day known as Phagwah, some of the sacred ashes from the bonfire are collected and after a ceremony at the Mandir, smeared on the forehead and lightly all over the body by everyone. Then the entire congregation had fun dousing each other with water, colour water called ‘abhir’ and powders of many different colours. It was a fun festival especially for the children who revelled in the colourful all-day play with each other. The sight of hundreds of people whose once-white clothing were now red, green, blue, yellow and a mix of other colours, seemed to make the heart lighter and problems somehow seemed non-existent on this auspicious day. Smiling, happy faces were smeared with white, red and blue powder and the white powder made many heads of jet black hair, gray-looking as everyone had a grand, enjoyable time...” Mahadeo is the fourth of five children. He attended No. 68 Primary School and, after passing the Common Entrance Examination, was accepted into Tagore Memorial High School. His five years at high school were his “impressionable years”, which most of the stories told in his book occurred. “My addiction at the time was comic books ranging from the ‘Commando’ series, to ‘Superman’ and ‘Ironman’ series, and this obsession negatively impacted my performance in school. I really kicked my studies into high gear only in Form 5, a few months before the final GCE ‘O’ Level examinations. Thanks to Mama, my elder sister Vidya, and my [uncle], I passed all seven subjects at GCE. Mama even woke me up at 3am each school day so that I could study in the relatively peaceful and quiet morning,” he recalled. According to the author, the following year was spent planting rice, tending the vegetable gardens and learning carpentry with his Mosa (the husband of his
mother’s sister) from No. 47 Village, which was about eight miles away. During this time, he rode his bicycle for eight miles in the morning to work at his construction job at No. 48 Village (same journey was done in the afternoon). A few months later, at the insistence of his sister Vidya, Mahadeo wrote an entrance exam in 1979 to attend the Guysuco Technical Training School in Port Mourant, which was known as the Port Mourant Training Centre. This fouryear course was designed so that the first two years were spent in the college and the last two years working as an apprentice at the machine shop at the Skeldon Sugar Factory. After finishing the
came in the form of our son Avinash, the cutest little baby boy. Three years later, a second blessing came in the form of our beautiful little darling daughter Vashti and this started a journey of happiness which continues to this day,” Mahadeo mentioned. The author said he grew up always open to challenges. Every path he has taken so far has led him to the “journey of stepping outside of himself to communicate personal thoughts and scribbles into formal writing to share”. Writing for the author was always his “getaway world” into which he escaped, even as a child. He attributed his book to his father, Pt Budhram Mahadeo,
Book cover
four-year course and graduating, he worked at the sugar factory over the next few years as a machinist and shift mechanic in both the night and day shift. “I left Guyana for New York City and because I came from a fairly quiet village, used to the country life, I found the size, hustle and bustle and loudness to be impersonal and somewhat uncomfortable. My first job was on Canal Street in Manhattan. Ultimately my discomfort in NYC and my yearning to learn more led me to Long Island where I landed a new job. This opportunity allowed me to learn and apply my newfound engineering and machining skills. There the kind owner gave me a willing worker, the keys to the machine shop and 14-hour workdays. Six months later, the true beauty of family emerged as our first blessing
who was considered a great orator by many. “As my life's journey continues, I find myself slipping more and more into my familiar getaway world of writing and enjoy it even more. Writing for me is a way of finding answers, of helping myself to understand even better the subject matter, which I had started writing about in that particular sitting. I also refer to my writing as 'being my own shrink', helping me understand myself better,” the author expressed. “I am currently working on a few books which are as yet unnamed. In the meantime, I have been writing and posting on my website. I hope to complete my current works in 2-3 years and publish them,” he outlined. For more information, visit Jag B Mahadeo - The Heart of The Sun on Facebook.
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March 16 , 2014
Times Sunday Magazine 5
Times Women
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ying for the Miss World Guyana crown is the stunning beauty US-based Guyanese Rafieya Husain. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, 21-yearold Husain talks about her pageant preparations and plans if she wins the crown. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: Where in Guyana are you from? Rafieya Husain: I was born in my grandparents’ home in Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast. I was raised in Georgetown and attended Mae’s Under 12 while I lived in Guyana. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: What are your academic qualifications? Rafieya Husain: I received my Associates’ Degree in Business Administration at Marymount University, US. I am continuing my studies to achieve my Master’s in Marketing. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: What is your pageantry history? Rafieya Husain: My pageantry life and experiences started about three years ago when I first competed in 2010. Over the years, I won the following titles: Miss India DC (2010), Miss India U.S.A. first runner-up (2010), Miss Photogenic for Miss India U.S.A. (2010), Miss Teen Virginia - NAM (2011), winner of Top Model Virginia
- ‘Pageantry is not a beauty contest’ (2010 and 2011), winner of Top Model U.S.A. - NAM (2010 and 2011) and winner of Spokes Model NAM (2011). Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: What motivated you to compete for the Miss World Guyana title? Rafieya Husain: Guyana is my home and I always watched the pageants on TV growing up. It was always my dream to compete for the title and be able to represent Guyana on the international arena. While attending Mae’s Under 12, I participated in my first fashion show and I knew right away that modelling and pageantry was something I wanted to do. With the continuous love and support from my mother, my aunt, family and friends, I am able to see this dream come true. My passion for fashion and pageantry has given me the opportunity to use this as a platform to bring awareness to the public and the world about domestic violence, child trafficking and diabetes. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: What does your training for the pageant involve? Rafieya Husain: In every aspect of our life, train-
Rafieya Husain
ing and practice are always critical in achieving success. I am currently in training for my talent which is Bollywood Dance. I am also working on my platform. I have a pageant coach who guides me on all aspects, including walking/stage presence, fitness/nutrition, interview, talent, wardrobe styling, hair/makeup, as well as my ‘Beauty With a Purpose’ platform and charity work. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: How do you view pageantry and the forum you are given? Rafieya Husain: To me, pageantry, especially as a
titleholder, is a job. It takes hard work, dedication and commitment because you’re no longer representing yourself, but you’re also representing a brand and a country. Pageantry has been viewed all over the world as a beauty pageant, this notion is not true. Pageantry give us the opportunity like no other, you gain poise, self-confidence and valuable talent and communica-
tion skills. You feel good about yourself and gain the competitive edge to succeed later in whatever field you may choose, from modelling to business. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: What's your platform? Rafieya Husain: My platform is domestic violence and to find steps towards spreading awareness and educating people. I believe violence against women, men and children results from the use of force or threat to achieve and maintain control over others in intimate relationships and from societal abuse of power. I would like to work with foundations to design and fund innovative programmes to eradicate domestic violence and to foster development of safe alternatives within local communities. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: Are you involved in any charitable initiatives? Rafieya Husain: I have volunteered for the Jeanie Schmidt Free Clinic, US,
which offers free health services to the area of residents who have no health insurance and have a household income that is less than the poverty level. I also work with ACT - now a non-profit organisation- which focuses on the prevention and elimination of child trafficking and domestic violence. Guyana Times Sunday Magazine: If you win Miss World Guyana, how will you use your crown to help others? Rafieya Husain: I will work with the Miss World Organization’s goals and would use this platform to address corporate and public leaders, community service groups, organisations, the media and others about issues to generate awareness for a variety of causes, including poverty, domestic violence, diabetes awareness, education, literacy and so on. I would like to be more hands-on with people, sharing my experiences, listening to their challenges and finding support and alternative solutions for a better life. For more information on the pageant, visit Miss World Guyana on Facebook.
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Times Book World
The Shaping of Guyanese Literature
Cultural folklore By Petamber Persaud Part Four
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hile looking at our cultural folklore, I found out that we could also open a chrysalis soon to become a beautiful butterfly instead of a can of worms. Books on the subject of Guyanese folklore are literally falling open at my feet in my study as I am also revisiting the work of Jan Carew. (Too many interests keep me multitasking instead of dwelling on one subject at a time.) From the inception, I had publicised my intention to do a series of three articles but the prevalence of material now constrains me to expand the series. ‘Manco’s Stories’ is a fascinating collection of cultural syncretism. To throw light on that phrase, it is necessary to become familiar with Carew’s introduction to these stories. “When the Africans, who were brought to Guyana as slaves, moved into the hinterland of the AmazonOrinoco Basin, many of them had already been exposed to European languages and cultures – Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, French
or English, depending on who their colonial rulers were, and through creole languages they had created, acted as cultural intermediaries and culture-sharers with their Amerindian hosts. As a result of the meeting of the Africans and the Amerindians and the extensive inter-cultural exchanges... there was a fusion of folk cultures... So the fusion of the African and Amerindians traditions enriched and gave new life and meaning to both.” Based on this knowledge, we can better appreciate Carew’s approach to recreating these folklores in this collection, ‘Manco’s Stories’. Of course, the first story was about Manco the man after whom the stories were named, setting the scene. Manco was an old man who lived high above the mist of the sacred Roraima Mountain and was honoured with the title of the greatest storyteller who ever lived. Manco was “tall and straight as a greenheart tree, his hair was white as tiger orchid, and his swarthy, wrinkled face was the colour of dark and seasoned mahogany”, and he had a voice “that could whisper like the wind in pine trees or awaken your
Manco who heard the “soft footballs of Mantop” – Death’s messenger approaching called the nations to a palaver. They decided to move to greener pasture which was in the area of Nameless Mountain. Soon after, Manco went to the forest of the long night and a new leader had to be chosen. The one who climbed to the highest point of the mountain and returned with a gift would rule. Masto who returned with the “gift of work, of creative labour” succeeded Manco. Kaya who returned with the gift of beauty succeeded Masto. Lara, a female, who returned and presented an empty hand succeeded Kaya and ruled for a long, long time. Her gift was the gift of “faith, fantasy and imagination”. Her reign is celebrated until this day with “song-poems and ballads and stories”, and a public holiday – “the Day of Remembrance”. Responses to this author should be sent to email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com or call (592) 226-0065.
Jan Carew
heart like a roll of drums”. Once a year, and only once a year, Manco would come down from the mountain to tell stories but warned, “I will continue to come with the new moon as long as the living world wears green. But, if mindless people tear away the green skin of the living world, the earth would become a graveyard and then I’ll come no more.” There are many layers to this story but one underpinning lesson is the need to preserve the environment – nature is the essence of these stories. (Jan Carew was instrumental in the establishment of what is now known as Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation
Carew's fascinating collection of cultural syncretism
and Development.) So certain conditions must be in place for storytelling. For Manco, it must be a moonlight night and there must be a silk cotton tree from under which he will perform. On this moonlight, Manco told six stories namely: ‘A Black Woman in search of God’, ‘Legend of Kaietuk’, ‘Amal, the Son of Wind and Rainbow’, ‘The Greatest Gift of all’, ‘The Sky god and the
Sun Children’, and ‘Kai and Ichillibar’. I will dwell a while on ‘The Greatest Gift of all’ because that gift is responsible for the unending fascination with these folklores and other stories. For the first hundred years of Manco’s rule, the land enjoyed great prosperity. However, this was followed by seven years of drought which caused untold suffering in the land.
What’s happening: Coming soon, the first reprint of ‘An Introduction to Guyanese Literature’. It will be available from the author at the above contacts, Austin’s Book Service (2267350) and at the National Library (226-2690). ‘Anthology of Contemporary Guyanese Verse: Volume 1’, published by The Caribbean Press and compiled by Petamber Persaud, is now available. The work of 21 writers is captured in this 164-page book.
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March 16 , 2014
Times Sunday Magazine 7
Times Feature
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Star of the week
Richard Pitman Radio Announcer/ Writer
By Vahnu Manikchand
C
oming out from a life of nothing and persevering to achieve dreams is the life story of Richard Pitman, who is presently living his dreams. Pitman is currently a radio announcer; however he got his break years ago when he responded to an advertisement on a local channel. He was hired as a cameraman/transmission operator. He later got the opportunity to work as a reporter, which was when he realised where his passion lies. His next break came in a totally different arena, drama, when he participated in a training session on behavioural changes. He explained that Merundoi mixes behavioural change with drama so that people can relate and identify with the characters. “I got there a day after the training had started. There were 30 participants in the training room, from which four persons were selected. I was fortunate to be among those four persons.” According to Pitman, when he was younger, he was very introverted and would pen his emotions in scripts or poems, but never showed them to anyone. When the opportunity to write for Merundoi presented itself, Pitman fitted right in - since he wanted to create characters with which people can relate to. For the past eight years, he has been writing for the radio show. Due to financial difficulties while growing up, he could not complete high school but knew he wanted a lot out of life, which required getting himself qualified. So he continued reading and took advantage of as many training opportunities available to him. That was when he took part in a collaborative training session between the University of Guyana (UG) and the Ohio University, during which he did well and was asked to apply to UG. In 2010, he embarked on his studies; by 2012 he graduated with a Diploma in Communication. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in the same field. Pitman said he has faced many challenges in his life but always overcome them because of the persevering qualities he inherited from his mother. As a child growing up, Pitman’s parents were separated, leaving his mother to struggle with maintaining three children. Being the eldest and from a poor family, Pitman had to make the sacrifice and drop out of school to provide financially for his two sisters, since his mother had migrated. “From the time I dropped out of school, I knew I had to work to help my sisters. I got my first job at a gas station and quickly moved up, eventually managing it. I then rented a house and took in my siblings. I basically became a father to them, but we helped take care of each other.” Pitman is also a film producer and did a documentary. He had applied for a scholarship at a Film Festival in Belgium, however he did not get through. Consequently, he was advised to apply for a job as a radio announcer at Radio Guyana Inc. He did and was successful in securing the job. “I learnt everything quickly. My first day on the air was the most magnificent feeling ever. I got the opportunity to make people happy; there is nothing to beat that. I am happy when people tell me that my music or I, personally, make them happy.” Everything that Pitman had to endure to get where he is made life more interested for him. He encourages persons to always be perseverant in their goals and never give up. “Perseverance helps! You should never quit or give up on something you want because when you do you never know the next step could have been it for you. Just hold on your goals and don’t ever let anyone dissuade you from achieving it.”
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eft-hand batsman, Chandarpaul Hemraj is known for his impressive skills on the cricket field. Consequently, he was included in the Guyana squad for his second-round match against Barbados in the Regional Four-day Championships. Himself and Tagenarine Chandarpaul, another young cricketer known for his talents, replaced veterans Shivnarine Chandarpaul, Tagenarine’s father, and Ramnaresh Sarwan, who have been forced out of the second-round match against Barbados in the Regional Four-day Championships due to injuries. The 20-year-old, who went under his first stint at the WICB's High Performance Centre last year, has played three first-class matches for Guyana since making his debut against Trinidad and Tobago two years ago, averaging 9.50 with a top score of 29. Hemraj’s 102 against the Leeward Islands in the opening round of the 2012 Regional Under-19 cricket tournament in Barbados is the 53rd century by a Guyanese since the inaugural tournament in 1968. The pro cricketer continues to demonstrate his dexterity with the bat and aims to get his name in the cricket hall of fame.
8 Times Sunday Magazine
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March 16 , 2014
Times Kids Page
Did you know?
Creature Corner
Wolverines
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olverines are large, stocky animals that look like small bears, but they are the largest members of the weasel family. These tough animals are solitary, and like to roam long distances. Individual wolverines have been known to travel 15 miles (24 kilometres) in a single day in search of food. Because of they require lots of open space, wolverines frequent remote boreal forests, taiga, and tundra in the northern latitudes of Europe, Asia, and North America. Wolverines eat many plants and berries, but this does not make up a major part of their diet—they are fierce predators with a taste for meat. Wolverines easily catch smaller prey, such as rabbits and rodents, but may even attack large animals many times their size, such as caribou and, on occasion, lynx, if the prey appears to be weak or injured. Their feet are wide and furred, webbed, and front feet have long, strong claws, which help them climb. They often follow wolves to scavenge the remains of their prey. Wolves sometimes attack and kill the interlopers. Wolverines also feed on carrion—the corpses of larger mammals, such as elk, deer, and caribou. During winter, these dead animals can sustain them when other prey is scarce. They have also been known to dig into burrows and eat hibernating mammals!
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ale wolverines mark their territories with their scent, but they allow several female wolverines to live there. Females den in the snow to give birth to two or three young each late winter or early spring. Young wolverines, called kits, sometimes live with their mother until they are two years old. Wolverines' thick fur is brown with two yellowish stripes on back. Trappers hunted wolverines for their fur in North America. In the past, their fur was used to line parkas, but this is less common today and the animals are protected in many areas. The scientific name for the wolverine is Gulo gulo. Wolverines are mammals. They are omnivores but are strong predators and eat lots of meat. Wolverines will live 7 to 12 years in the wild. Their head and body measure about 26 to 34 inches (66 to 86 centimetres) and their tails are usually 7 to 10 inches (18 to 25 centimetres) in length. They can weigh from 24 to 40 pounds (11 to 18 kilograms).
Word Search The objective of the game is to fill all the blank squares in a game with the correct numbers. Every row of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Every column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Every 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.
Colouring Fun
FUN FACTS
Mosquitoes are annoying, but that's partly because they are so amazing. Mosquitoes are like little robots. These robots are great at finding warm-blooded people. A mosquito's head is loaded with a system of “people sensors”. It starts with chemical sensors. With their antenna, mosquitoes can sense carbon dioxide and lactic acid up to 100 feet away. They can also detect chemicals in sweat. Since people and animals give off lots of carbon dioxide and these other chemicals, it makes it easy for mosquitoes to find us. They also have good eyes. When you move, mosquitoes zero in on you - especially if you are wearing bright, loud colours. Since much of what moves is animals, this is a good strategy. And mosquitoes can sense heat too. Using the chemical sensors and the movement sensors to get close, they can then zero in on the heat of
Mosquitoes your body. They find a nice warm place to land, say on your arm, and then the fun begins. Female mosquitoes are the only ones that bite. They do this because they use blood as a source of protein. Without a protein snack, a female mosquito cannot lay eggs. So when the mosquito lands her first thing to do is to stick her long, thin proboscis into your skin, like a needle. She injects a fluid that keeps your blood from coagulating (thickening). Then she sucks up a drop of blood - about five microliters - and stores it in her abdomen. Once she is full, she flies away to lay her eggs. But because of all that itching and the threat of serious diseases, it's good to avoid being a mosquito's protein source. So don't forget the bug repellent the next time you go out!
please see solution on page 22
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March 16 , 2014
Times Sunday Magazine 9 Egg development
Australorp hen
This Australian hen is prized for its record-breaking egg-laying abilities.
In a word
CHICKENS
Chickens have long been prized for their meat and eggs. They have also been cruelly set against each other in cock fights, a practice that is illegal in most places today. Many people raise chickens as pets and as show birds.
Brahma rooster with buff coloring
A bit of history The chicken, Gallus gallus domesticus, has been domesticated for about 8,000 years. DNA tests show that the domesticated chicken is a close relative of the red junglefowl, a bird that can still be found in the wilds of Southeast Asia. The gray junglefowl of southern India has also contributed to its evolution. Chickens are thought to have been originally bred for fighting rather than for food.
The egg cell or ovum is released into the oviduct.
There are more than 150 varieties of domestic chickens. They come in a variety of sizes, colors and patterns.
These chickens were developed in Delaware in the 1940s.
Baby chickens are called chicks. Young females are pullets until old enough to lay eggs; then they are called hens. Male chickens are called roosters, cocks or cockerels.
An egg begins as a cell called an ovum. The yolk forms around the ovum until it is the size of a fully formed egg. The yolk travels through a long tube called the oviduct. On its way, layers of albumen (protein nutrients) form, followed by shell membranes. The final shell is formed in the uterus. It takes 24 to 25 hours for the yolk to move through the oviduct and turn into an egg ready to be laid.
Egg is fertilized. Layers of albumen form.
The egg is laid.
The Brahma has feathered feet.
Delaware rooster
Chickens live an average of 5-7 years, but some have lived up to 20 years.
Evidence suggests that chickens date back to China around 5400 B.C. They are seen in the Indus Valley by about 2000 B.C., from where they spread into Europe and Africa.
Did you know? Chickens are omnivores. They’ll eat seeds and insects, but also larger prey like small mice and lizards.
These large chickens were developed in the United States. Also known as the Pilgrim Fowl, the Dominique was brought to North America by English colonists. Dominique hen
Shell membranes form here. The hard shell forms inside the uterus, and shell colors develop.
A newly laid egg must be kept warm (incubated) if it is going to grow into a chick. An egg starts growing into a chick when it reaches a temperature of 86 F (30 C). Day 1 The embryo begins to develop. Day 3 The embryo has a head, heart and a tail. The yolk develops blood vessels to feed the embryo.
In 2004, the chicken became the first bird to have its genome sequenced. There are about 25 billion chickens in the world, more than any other bird species. Different breeds of chickens lay different colors of eggs, including white, brown, blue, green and even pink!
Mating habits Fertilization in chickens is usually the result of natural mating, but artificial insemination can also be used. Chickens tend to breed in the spring and early summer. Roosters begin the courtship by performing a dance sometimes called tidbitting. Females seem to prefer males that dance more frequently and have larger, brighter combs on their heads. The rooster’s wattle – the hanging part under his beak – probably to plays a role in getting a hen’s attention.
Blue hen of Delaware
Day 12 Pimples where the feathers will grow are visible. A beak forms and a waste sack shares the space.
Despite being the state bird of Delaware, this bird is not officially a separate breed. Chickens cannot fly far, but they can fly over a fence or into a tree. New Hampshire Red brood
Rhode Island Red A chicken can have 4 or 5 toes on each foot. La Flèche rooster
After mating, it takes 21 to 24 days for the eggs to hatch.
The eggs you eat
Day 7 A sac of water called the amnion forms around the embryo. Wings and legs begin to develop.
Day 20 One day before the chick will hatch. A special egg tooth on the beak helps the chick break out of the shell.
Day 21 The first crack or break in the shell is called a pip. The chick uses all of its strength to break out of the shell and is born wet and tired.
Hens do not need a rooster to lay an egg. Hens can lay eggs almost every day because they ovulate every 24 to 48 hours. If the hen’s egg is not fertilized by a rooster, there is no chance of that egg ever growing a chick. Almost all eggs sold commercially are produced by hens that have not mated.
This French breed is nicknamed the “Devil Bird” because its comb looks like two horns.
The chick will rest and warm up close to its mother. Within a few hours, it is dry and covered in a fluffy yellow down.
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March 16 , 2014
Times Fashion
‘F
irst Resort’, by designer Sonia Noel, was recently showcased at a fashion event in celebration of International Women’s Day at Society House Het Park, Suriname. Notably, the applauded collection was favourably received by Suriname’s fashion elite. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, the designer stated that the collection “depicts the easy, carefree, uninhibited nature of Caribbean lifestyle presented in breathing, eco-friendly, caressing textiles, which captures the attitude of leisure - so compelling to the world”. To create this irresistible collection, Noel infused her signature latticing, kaftan silhouettes and versatile wraps. ‘First Resort’ is a representation of Noel’s creative, designing talents in transforming simple fabrics to celebrated pieces. “The response to my collection was fantastic. It feels good as a designer to be appreciated,” Noel expressed. A recent photo shoot of the collection was done in Suriname with the country’s top models: Xaviera Rijger, Yoni Brunswijk and Farida Sedney. This collection is presently available at Noel’s fashion studio located at 176 Barr Street, Kitty. Call 226-3099 for more information.
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Times Sunday Magazine 11
Star Times Hollywood
T
yler Hoechlin is an American actor who got his big break starring as Tom Hanks' son in the film “Road to Perdition” (2002). For television, he is best known for playing the role of Martin Brewer on “7th Heaven” and the role of Derek Hale on the MTV series “Teen Wolf”. Hoechlin was nominated for a 2004 Teen Choice Award for Breakout Male Star. He starred in the 2007 David DeCoteau film “Grizzly Rage” and in the 2008 movie “Solstice.” He also starred in an episode of “Castle”. The actor appeared alongside Owen Wilson and Christina Applegate in the 2011 movie “Hall Pass”.
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Times Hollywood
Cameron Diaz: ‘Women Seth Rogen calls Justin Bieber ‘obnoxious’ should be allowed to age’ S eth Rogen slammed Justin Bieber and talked about smoking weed in a recent TV appearance. The comedian stopped by Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live" on Wednesday, March 12. During a skit called "Spill the Herbal Tea", he revealed some names of stars he had smoked weed with as well as others who didn't smoke. In the show, Rogen said that he had smoked weed with Snoop Dogg. He also shared that he did it with Sarah Silverman and Paul Rudd "lots of times," while Jonah Hill joined him "a few times." The 31-yearold star, however, revealed that he did not have a chance to smoke with
C
ameron Diaz, let's be real, looks incredible at any age. She's 41, she's super fit and healthy and she doesn't stress about being covered in make-up 24/7. But the actress has spoken out about how women are being put under too much pressure to look younger - and she's had enough. Speaking to Oprah Winfrey in the upcoming TV show ‘Cameron Diaz & Sharon Stone: Aging Gracefully’, she told the TV host how "crazy" our obsession with aging (or trying to stop aging) was. "Our culture is obsessed with not growing into who you were really meant to be", Oprah said. To which Cameron agreed, "this is true". Cameron added that "women don't allow other women to age gracefully," and that "And we don't give ourselves permission to age gracefully." Speaking about her time in Hollywood, Diaz said that she often felt chastised because she didn't look the same as she did as a young star, and couldn't "defy nature": "For me I feel like if I-it's almost as if we have failed if we don't remain 25 for the rest of our lives. Like we are failures. It's a personal...failure…our fault that at 40 years old that I still don't look like I'm 25." As the author of “The Body Book”, which
aims to teach young girls to love themselves and their bodies, it's no surprise that Cam is speaking out about the pressure on women to look younger than they really are - and about time too. And she is set to reveal more about the pressure from the industry, as well as how she focuses on her inner beauty and nurturing her body, in the full programme when it airs on the OWN network in the states. Sadly we won't be able to watch Cam (and Sharon Stone) in the UK, but head over to E! to watch the clip from the show. (Glamour)
Barbra Streisand. "No, but we talked about it a lot. She smoked weed with Peter Sellers though. That's the craziest s**t ever!" he said. Rogen additionally praised his co-star in "The Interview" and "Sausage Party", James Franco. "This is really depressing for me to say... I've never smoked weed with James Franco because he doesn't smoke
weed. That's why he's such a good actor! It's really sad, actually," he revealed. When asked about his tweet following Bieber's arrest in January, he did not hold back his words. "In my opinion, Justin Bieber is a piece of s**t," he said. "He's obnoxious, he's ungrateful, he's insincere. He puts people's lives in danger." (AceShowbiz)
Lorde turns down offer to support Katy Perry's tour
K
aty Perry once asked Lorde to join her upcoming "Prismatic" tour as a supporting act. However, the New Zealand native turned down the offer because she wanted to be "independent" by headlining her own shows. "I think in the really ear-
ly stages of any artist's career it's important for them to establish themselves for themselves," Lorde told Australia's Kiis 1065. "I'm just basically really stubborn and I want to be really independent. So I want to be headlining my own shows instead of supporting some-
one else. Which I think is fair enough." Lorde is currently in the U.S. for her own tour which was kicked off earlier this month to support her debut album "Pure Heroine". Featuring mega hit "Royals", the platinum-selling record that arrived last year is now at No. 7 on Billboard 200. Meanwhile, Perry is scheduled to open her "Prismatic" tour in Ireland on May 7. The "Roar" singer will spend the rest of the month visiting other European countries before bringing the tour to North America in June. (AceShowbiz)
Zac Efron embraces sobriety
H
e plays an out-ofcontrol frat boy in his new film “Neighbors”, but attending the SXSW festival in Austin, Texas, on March 8, Zac Efron was hardly in partyanimal mode. Poised and upbeat, he told audience members at his movie premiere, "I've been blessed to have the opportunities I've had. It couldn't have happened better. I'm stoked." Although he vowed to "take it back to college" at
the film's fraternity-themed afterparty, he quietly mingled with the crowd, and when asked about his favorite beer at a later event, he named nonalcoholic
O'Doul's. It's a significant turnaround for the 26-year-old star, who also presented at the Oscars on March 2 – his most high-profile appearance since a rough 2013, in which he underwent rehab last spring and broke his jaw in November when he fell at his L.A. home. These days "I couldn't be happier," Efron told PEOPLE in January while promoting his comedy “That Awkward Moment”. "I'm in a great place." (People)
Drake, Rihanna go on bowling date in Manchester
T
he pair was spotted on a very late night bowling session in the city centre after performing earlier in the eve-
ning. The duo headed to All Star Lanes after Drake's gig at the Phones 4 U arena, which Rihanna supported, after partying at Entourage in The Printworks. The rapper and popstar then made their way across town to the Great Northern venue, booking it out for their entourage and crew. The group arrived at 1.45am and left at 4.30am. It appears Drake came out on top beating Rihanna in a game of tenpin bowling in the private room, themed around Elvis Presley, at the venue. A source said: "It was Dom Perignon and shots of tequila all the way as the group were in a real party mood so there wasn't
that much bowling going on. "Drake and Rihanna did manage to play half a game, but Rihanna didn't do too well she scored 16 while Drake got 52." Rihanna and Drake have added to the rumours that they're back on after tearing up Manchester together after they were spotted holding hands just the day before. (Glamour)
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Times Sunday Magazine 13
Star Times Bollywood
E
velyn Sharma is a German-Indian actress and model. She began her acting career with a bit part in the 2006 British film “Turn Left”. In 2012, Sharma made her Bollywood debut playing the role of Lubaina Snyder in the film “From Sydney with Love”. The following year, she was featured in the blockbuster “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani”, as well as “Nautanki Saala” and “Issaq”. In 2014, she appeared in another Bollywood movie, “Yaariyaan”.
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B
B
ollywood actress Deepika Padukone says that Holi is one of her favourite festivals and she remembers the time when she was a kid and played colours with friends. "Holi has been one of my favorite festivals since childhood. Playing Holi with my friends from my building after coming back from school is one of my favorite childhood Holi memories. Preparations for the festival would start at least a week before," Deepika told IANS. The actress, who delivered four backto-back hits "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani", "Chennai Express", "Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela" and "Race 2" in 2013, is currently shooting for "Happy New Year". She is looking forward to celebrate the festival with the cast of the film this year. "This year I will be shooting for my film 'Happy New Year'. It's a fun bunch and I'm sure celebrating Holi on the set will be a lot of fun," she said. Deepika, who is known for her beautiful skin, also keeps a check on her beauty re-
gime around Holi. "During Holi, I am concerned about my hair the most. Applying a coconut based hair oil acts as a protective layer for my hair against the colours and the summer heat. I tie my hair in a side braid or a messy pony tail. Also I make sure to keep myself hydrated," said the actress. "Playing Holi can be exhausting. When I return home, I like to pamper myself with a coconut based hair oil massage and a cup of hot coffee," she added. (IANS)
ollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha has not just dubbed, but also sung a few lines for Hollywood family entertainer “Rio 2”, which releases in India in April. The vivacious actress has also lent her voice for the Hindi dubbed version of the movie. She has given voiceover for a character named Jewel, a macaw, while Imran Khan has done the same for another character. Sonakshi has even sung a few lines for ‘Rio 2’ for an interesting party sequence and she enjoyed the experience of dubbing for the film. "I enjoyed dubbing for ‘Rio 2’ because firstly, it's such a fun film, and secondly, because I felt like Imran (Khan) and I were perfect for the characters of Blu and Jewel," the “Dabangg” girl said in a statement. "There's a scene where Jewel is dancing and singing, so they made me sing a few lines as well. It was such a new experience! I would have even loved to sing more but unfortunately I am only just a bathroom singer," she added. The English version of the movie has voiceover of Anne Hathaway and Jesse
S
aif Ali Khan has been charged with assault - under sections 325 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt) and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of the Indian Penal Code - in relation to an incident that took place in February 2012. The actor is alleged to have punched NRI businessman Iqbal Sharma in a restaurant at the Taj Hotel in Colaba after Sharma asked the actor and his guests - includ-
Eisenberg. “Rio 2”, an adventure comedy set in the Brazilian city of Rio De Janeiro, is releasing in 3D here in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. (Hindustan Times)
ing Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor and Malaika Arora - to keep their voices down. According to NDTV Movies, his lawyer Mohan Jayakar said: "Saif was provoked after women at the table were abused. Filthy language was used by Mr Sharma." Khan was present at the court and pleaded not guilty to the charges, claiming that he was acting in self-defence. Speaking after the incident, the “Happy Endings” star apologised for his behaviour, saying: "It is our responsibility that we always behave the right way. So in one way, I would like to apologise about what happened and I think even this could have been handled in a different way. "I get angry at things any normal person will get angry at. But it should not be displayed in public." The star was arrested and released on bail after paying Rs 15,000 crore. Kareena Kapoor has previously spoken out in his defence, claiming that Sharma was fame hungry. The trial will begin on April 30. (Digital Spy)
A
quiet, leafy South Delhi neighbourhood was abuzz Friday morning as news trickled into homes and busy markets that Bollywood star Rani Mukerji was shooting in one of the houses. "Did you know that Rani is in Chittaranjan Park," squealed Manushi, a 20-year-old househelp, as she excitedly passed on the news on the phone to her friends in the neighbourhood - and beyond. Rani is in the capital to shoot for "Mardaani". Being directed by Pradeep Sarkar and produced by Aditya Chopra, the film will see the actress in khakis. Burly private guards, wearing black safari suits, cordoned off an entire area around a neighbourhood park, not allowing even househelps and courier boys to transgress the road leading to the house. Many older residents were upset at this "unwarranted intrusion" into neighbourhood peace, but the younger ones revelled in a sense of pride of their neighbourhood being a location for a Bollywood film. "Do you think they will show our park in the movie," one housemaid was overheard asking another. When an irate neighbourhood gent asked one of the guards on whose authority they were blocking off a colony road, one of them said: "Sir, we have taken all necessary permission and clearances, including from the resident association." After an outcry in the media and complaints from citizens a couple of weeks ago over private guards blocking off busy arteri-
al roads in East Delhi where Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif were shooting and creating huge traffic jams, the shooting team appeared to be more circumspect this time and the guards were scrupulously polite in dealing with residents even while diverting people and traffic away from the location. But the long line of vans and cars that make a production unit's cavalcade nevertheless created traffic choke points even as groups of people stood at various vantage points near the house and craned their necks to catch a glimpse of their favourite star. "She was dressed in jeans-jacket and the onlookers were saying that she looks different off the screen," said Ramakanta Mahanta, an onlooker who got a glimpse of the actress of hits like "Saathiya", "Hum Tum" and "Black". (Times of India)
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March 16 , 2014
Times Sunday Magazine
15
Times Healthy Living
F
tions.
ish oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and according to studies, it may help with a range of medical condi-
Protects your heart
Some studies show that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may help reduce several risk factors of heart disease. Fish oil is linked to lower levels of triglycerides (fats in the blood), and helps prevent or treat hardening of the arteries by slowing production of plaque or blood clots. Studies also suggest that regularly consuming foods with omega-3 fatty acids may help protect against stroke.
Lowers cholesterol
Mayo Clinic lists fish and omega-3 fatty acids (the main component of fish oil) as the second best food to lower cholesterol, behind oatmeal and high-fibre foods. The omega-3s help reduce blood pressure and the risk of developing blood clots.
Benefits your bones
H
elp your body perform at its best by honouring your hunger! By ignoring your appetite, you can become moody and stressed, which may be sabotaging your health. Never go hungry ever again by learning ways to satisfy and control your appetite.
Stop Hunger with Protein
If you tend to rush in the mornings, you might be tempt-
T
he exact causes of Alzheimer's disease are still unknown, but experts have identified a host of contributing factors: diabetes, smoking, saturated fats. Now a theory points the finger in a different direction: a variety of metals that can build up in the body over time. Look inside the brains of people with Alzheimer's who have died and you'll find protein clogging the brain's signalling system, along with tiny clusters called beta-amyloid plaques. But you need not let metals meddle with your noggin: A few simple swaps can help shield your brain and protect your memory.
According to University of Maryland Medical Center, the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil can help maintain a healthy bone mass. Studies showed that the fatty acids appeared to increase the amount of calcium the body absorbs and diminish the amount of calcium lost in urine. This promotes bone strength and growth.
May ease menstrual pain
A small study found that young women who took a fish oil supplement reported less menstrual pain than when given a placebo, according to NYU Langone Medical Center. Another small study found that women who took a fish oil supplement with vitamin B12 had less painful menstrual cycles. (Note: Always talk to your doctor before taking fish oil supplements.)
Treat mental illness
Although fatty acids are essential to healthy brain function, study results on the effectiveness of fish oil supplements to treat a range of mental disorders are mixed,
ed to skip breakfast and just grab a coffee. However, coffee alone doesn’t contain all the nutrients you need to help get your day going. Pay attention to when your hunger calls in the morning, and start your day with a protein-filled breakfast. Protein, in the morning, helps control your appetite by keeping you full throughout the day.
Eat Often
Skipping meals and eating irregularly can seriously slow down your metabolism. They key to boosting your metabolism and maintaining your weight is to actually eat more often! Research has shown that people who eat regularly eat throughout the day have less
19 to 50; 8 mg for women 50+). They're also rich in antioxidants that "bind to iron so it can't cause as much damage," says UCLA psychiatry professor George Bartzokis, MD. Quick fix: Swap out your cast-iron pans for stainless steel. One study found that the iron content of spaghetti sauce increased more than nine times after being cooked in a cast-iron skillet.
Aluminum
The aluminum-Alzheimer's link remains hotly con-
Iron
It's the fuel that allows red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body. But when it comes to brain health, a 2011 study in the journal Neurology showed that people with high hemoglobin (an indicator of iron levels) were more than three times as likely to develop Alzheimer's as those with levels in a healthy range. Get smart: Go easy on meat—it's loaded with easily absorbable heme iron, which your body can't regulate well. Dark leafy greens can help you meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for iron (18 mg for women ages
tested, but most experts agree that the metal can be a neurotoxin. Although our bodies don't need aluminum to function, it seeps in through antacids ("they can deliver a hundred times more aluminum than you'd get from a day's worth of food," Barnard says); soda cans, which can leach aluminum; and tap water (aluminum can be introduced during purification).
so always talk to your doctor before treating yourself. A group of studies suggested that the omega-3s found in fish oil had a positive effect on people with primary depression. One small study found that patients with bipolar disorder who took fish oil supplements in addition to regular medication had fewer mood swings than those who took a placebo pill.
May help regulate diabetes
New research reported in Science Daily found that the omega-3s in fish oil supplements increased levels of adiponectin in the bloodstream, a hormone that aids in glucose regulation. Researchers say that higher level of adiponectin is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
May reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
Studies suggest the omega-3 fatty acids
body fat. You can keep your metabolism moving by either eating five mini meals throughout the day or by eating three big meals with two snacks throughout the day.
Focus on What You Eat
It’s time to break the habit of eating while watching TV. If you eat in front of the TV, you are more likely to be distracted and end up consuming more
found in fish oil may reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes painful inflammation of the joints. According to information from the University of Maryland Medical Center, the omega-3s in fish oil may ease joint pain and morning stiffness. Other studies found that taking fish oil supplements in conjunction with conventional RA therapies may be effective at relieving joint pain. (Reader’s Digest)
food than you had intended to eat. When dinner time comes around, try to eat at the table and focus on the food in front of you. By just increasing your attention toward your plate, you will be able to better gauge how much you eat.
Make Yourself a Proper Plate
While eating food out of the container may be convenient, it may also be causing you to overeat. In order to avoid this, make yourself a proper plate by taking the food out of its serving tray. This way you can monitor how much food you are consuming and eat up to 20% less.
Drink Alcohol After Your Meal
Drinking alcohol while you eat could cause you to overin-
In one British study, people with high levels of aluminum in their tap water had a 50 percent increased risk for Alzheimer's compared to those with the least exposure. Get smart: Call your local water supplier and ask for the aluminum level. "If your city's range is anything higher than undetectable, install an under-sink filter," Barnard says. Quick fix: Store your leftovers in glass; acidic foods like pizza or pasta sauce can absorb aluminum from foil.
Copper
Dietary copper (in foods like shellfish, nuts, and beans) is generally safe. But inorganic copper—the type in multivitamins and tap water— largely bypasses the liver's filtration system and heads directly to the blood and brain. It's especially dangerous when combined with saturated and trans fats: Research has found that individuals whose high-fat diets included 1.6 or more mg of copper a day experienced a loss of mental function equivalent to an extra 19 years of aging, compared with those who took in an average of 0.9 mg a day. Get smart: Check your pipes. If you have copper plumbing, let the water run for a minute in the morning
before drinking from the tap, to flush out any copper that may have built up overnight.
dulge without even noticing. Being aware of how much you eat is essential in achieving portion control. Avoid overeating by saving your drink until after your meal. (www.doctoroz. com)
Quick fix: Choose a supplement with no more than 0.9 mg of copper—the average
women's multivitamin contains more than double that. (www.oprah.com)
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March 16, 2014
Times Home & Cooking
Curried Rice With Shrimp Adding a new backsplash to your kitchen is a remarkably easy way to transform it. Explore these backsplash trends to help you choose the perfect one for your kitchen.
A Bright Reflection: The reflective surface of this stainless steel backsplash changes with the amount and direction of light. The cutting-edge material combined with the classic mosaic pattern gives the kitchen a modern organic look.
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large onion, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 teaspoons curry powder
1 cup long-grain white rice kosher salt and black pepper 1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined large shrimp 1/2 cup fresh basil
Method: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and curry powder and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 2 minutes. Add the rice, 2 and a half cups water, and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes. Season the shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Nestle them in the partially cooked rice. Cover and cook until the shrimp are opaque throughout, 4 to 5 minutes. Fold in the basil.
Quick Nariyal Burfi (Indian Coconut Fudge) Ingredients: 3 cups sweetened flaked coconut 1 1/2 (14 ounce) cans sweetened
condensed milk 2/3 cup sliced almonds 1 tablespoon ground cardamom (optional) Method: Grease a 9x9 inch pan. Stir together the coconut and condensed milk in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high in the microwave for 7 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. When the coconut mixture is hot and bubbling, stir in the almonds and cardamom. Pour into the prepared pan, and smooth the top with a spatula. Cool for 1 hour in the refrigerator, then cut into 1 inch squares with a greased knife.
Greatest Cooking Tips Puzzle Pieces: This series of bronze tiles adds visual interest to the kitchen. The tiles are placed in different directions to resemble piecing a puzzle, resulting in a fun pattern.
Adding fresh lemon juice to a recipe? Squeeze the lemon cut-side up so the seeds don’t fall into your food. Cut down soaking time for dry beans by pouring boiling water over them first. Let stand for 1 hour, rinse, then proceed with your recipe. Put a wet paper towel under a cutting board to avoid it from moving. When you’re going to sauté garlic, slice it rather than mincing it — it's less likely to burn that way. Always use sharp knives. Not only is it safer but it will make your work much more efficient. If you're cooking cauliflower, add a bit of milk to the water with salt to keep the cauliflower bright white. Shock it in cold water to stop the cooking and then serve.
Home Help
Dramatic Blue: Blue glass tiles make a dramatic statement in any style kitchen.
If an oven spill happens, immediately and liberally sprinkle it with salt to soak up the mess. When cool, nudge the crusty stain loose with a spatula; wipe clean. Smell still there on plastic containers? Stuff containers with crumpled newspaper, then put the lid on securely. Remove paper after a day or two; it should have absorbed the odour. Wash the container and lid in hot, soapy water; wipe dry. To keep dust from piling up quickly, use an antistatic spray on the window blinds right after you clean them. For cleaner counters, place all ingredients on an empty baking sheet prior to prepping them. (This will help you catch spills and avoid wasting time hunting for an item as you cook.) To prevent an olive oil bottle from becoming greasy, secure a folded paper towel around its neck with a rubber band; the towel will absorb any drips.
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Times Sunday Magazine 17
Times Sunday Puzzle
Add together each of the defined words to get a whole new word. Example: to shout + what you say when you feel pain = a colour = yellow. 1) A light brown colour + to leave = a dance= 2) A store's announcement + a type of women's clothing = a building's location= 3) A vehicle + an animal pal = a floor covering = 4) The ocean + a father's boy = part of the year = 5) Another name for dad + a yellow veggie = a white fluffy snack = see solution on page 22
see solution on page 22
see solution on page 22
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March 16, 2014
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Times Creative Writing
L
ong ago, there lived in this world a race of giant demons called Daityas. The Daityas were very strong and very powerful, so much so that they would often challenge the gods themselves, and sometimes even win. The king of the Daityas was the demon Hiranyakashyap. Hiranyakashyap, by praying hard and long to the great god Brahma, obtained Brahma's blessing in the form of a boon that protected him from death. Hiranyakashyap could not be killed by man or animal, god or demon, or by any weapon made under the sun. He could not be killed inside or outside his palace, or during the day or night. Hiranyakashyap, secure against his enemies, began conquering the world. He became king of the underworld, and of earth, and finally of heaven. Indra, king of the gods, defeated by Hiranyakashyap, fled his throne. The other gods saved themselves from Hiranyakashyap by descending to earth and taking on the appearance of ordinary men and women. Finding himself the undisputed ruler of the world, Hiranyakashyap became arrogant and proud. He declared that no one could worship any god or being except himself, and that all prayers and sacrifices were to be made to him. Nobody dared disobey him, nobody that is, except his own son, Prahlad. Prahlad had been sent to live with his teacher, a Brahmin, whose duty it was to educate Prahlad. Prahlad would visit his father often, and tell him all that he had learnt at the Brahmin's house. One day, when Prahlad was visiting his father, Hiranyakashyap asked him the usual question “What have you learnt at your teacher's house, my son?” Prahlad answered, “I have learnt that the most important thing in life is the worship of Vishnu.” Hiranyakashyap was furious with his son's teacher. “How dare you teach my son the worship of Vishnu?” he roared. The Brahmin, terrified, fell to his knees and cried, “My lord, I am innocent. I have taught the Prince no such thing. I worship only the great king Hiranyakashyap and no other.” “My teacher is not at fault, Father,” said Prahlad in defence of the Brahmin. “It is the great god Vishnu himself who has taught me to worship him.” “My son, what are you saying?” demanded the demon king. “Have you turned traitor to your own father? Or is it that some evil spirit has taken possession of you?” “Neither, Father,” said Prahlad calmly. “It is Vishnu who has entered my heart. He is everywhere, even within you.” “Let me not hear the name of Vishnu from your lips again,” Hiranyakashyap warned his son. He ordered him back to his teacher's house in the hope that Prahlad would now mend his ways and learn to worship him. After a few months had passed, the demon king again called Prahlad to him. “Son,” said the demon king to Prahlad. “I'd like to hear you recite some poetry for me today. Let us see how well the Brahmin has been teaching you.” “Very well, Father,” said Prahlad. The boy closed his eyes, and began singing a hymn to Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap
listened to his son in deadly silence. Prahlad finished the hymn, a smile on his face. He turned to look at his father. Hiranyakashyap stood up and pointing at the boy, commanded his attendants, “Kill him.” The soldiers surrounding the king rushed at Prahlad, and struck him again and again with their swords. But no matter how often or how hard the soldiers struck at Prahlad, they could not hurt him. They fell back in surprise and fear. Prahlad looked at them and laughed at their fear. “Do not be
afraid,” he said. “It is Vishnu who protects me. He is everywhere - in me, in you, in all your weapons. You cannot hurt me.” Hiranyakashyap turned to Prahlad and said, “Son, it is still not too late. Give up the worship of Vishnu, and you will come to no further harm through my soldiers.” But Prahlad refused. “No Father,” he said. “The worship of Vishnu is the only important thing in life. He is everywhere, in me and even in you.” Hiranyakashyap turned away angrily. He called upon all the beings under his command and ordered them to kill his son. First he called the snakes of the underworld. Huge serpents slithered towards Prahlad. They wrapped their great coils around him and tried to squeeze the life breathe out of him. They bit him in every part of his body with their great poisonous fangs. But they could not harm him. Prahlad stood unhurt in the middle of the serpents, a smile on his face and thoughts of Vishnu in his mind. The demon King then called upon the great white elephants that live in the sky to crush his son beneath their great feet. The elephants came lumbering in, each animal as huge as a mountain. They threw Prahlad to the ground, and stepped on him, trying to crush him into the earth. They flung him into the air and tried to pierce him with their massive tusks. But each time Prahlad remained unhurt, with a smile on his face and thoughts of Vishnu in his mind. “Throw him from the top of the palace walls!” thundered the king in anger. The guards bound Prahlad in chains, and threw him from the highest point of the palace walls onto the rocks below. But Prahlad was still unharmed, unhurt.
Hiranyakashyap tried every way he knew to get rid of Prahlad - poison, magic, murder, enchantments. But nothing could harm the child, who remained steadfast in his worship of Vishnu. Hiranyakashyap had a sister called Holika. Holika was as arrogant and cruel as her brother. She too had received a divine gift - that no fire could burn or harm her. When she saw that none of the demon-king's schemes to get rid of Prahlad were working, she went to the king with a plan. “Brother,” she said, “I know how much you want to get rid of Prahlad for his foul worship of Vishnu. You know that fire cannot injure me. So build a great fire, into which I will carry Prahlad. He will be burnt to death, and I will be unharmed.” The demon king decided to try his sister's plan. He ordered a great fire to be lit in the middle of the palace courtyard. Holika climbed into the blaze with Prahlad in her arms, and held him in the fire. But after the great flames had died down, the demon king and his attendants saw the little boy sitting serenely among the ashes. Of Holika there was nothing left. Hiranyakashyap's anger threatened to destroy the world. In frustration he had Prahlad bound in chains and thrown into the sea, where great rocks were piled on him so that he could not escape. Prahlad lay quietly at the bottom of the sea, thinking only of Vishnu. As he did so, his chains snapped, the rocks dissolved, and Prahlad rose to the surface and walked to his father's palace. Hiranyakashyap was furious when he saw Prahlad return alive. Once again he ordered him to give up the worship of Vishnu. But Prahlad refused. “Who is Vishnu? Where is Vishnu?” demanded the king in anger. “You say he is everywhere. Is he in this pillar of stone in my palace?” And Hiranyakashyap struck the stone pillar with the palm of his hand. At once the pillar broke and fell, and from it emerged a fearsome creature, half man and half lion. This was Vishnu, in the form of Narsimha or Man-Lion. The demons in the court of Hiranyakashyap ran away in fright. But Hiranyakashyap only laughed. He felt immortal, he had no fear. He rushed at the Narsimha, who caught him in his hundred arms, and dragging him to the threshold of his palace, ripped him into a hundred pieces with his claws. Vishnu, as Narsimha, was not man or animal, god or demon. He killed Hiranyakashyap with his claws, not by any weapon made under the sun. The demon king died on the threshold of his palace, which was neither outside nor inside. He died at dusk, which was neither day nor night. Brahma's promise remained unbroken, and the world was freed of a cruel and arrogant tyrant. Order was restored to the world. Indra regained his throne and became once again the ruler of heaven. Prahlad became king of the Daityas in his father's place. He ruled for many years, and was a just and kind king. All through his long life he remained constant in his worship of Vishnu. Prahlad did not die to be born again like other mortals - instead Vishnu took him into himself, and Prahlad became one with Vishnu. (Retold by Rohini Chowdhury)
The Pond There was this pond in the village and little boys, he heard till he was sick, were not allowed too near. Unfathomable pool, they said, that swallowed men and animals just so; and in its depths, old people said, swam galliwasps and nameless horrors; bright boys kept away. Though drawn so hard by prohibitions; the small boy, fixed in fear, kept off; till one wet summer, grass growing lush, paths muddy, slippery, he found himself there at the fabled edge. The brooding pond was dark. Sudden, escaping cloud, the sun came bright; and shimmering in guilt he saw his own face peering from the pool. Mervyn Morris
Dives Before they built the deep water harbour sinking an island to do it we used to row in our boats to the white liners, great ocean-going floats, to dive for coins. Women with bracelets, men with expensive tickers on their wrists, watched us through bland sun glasses so that their blue stares never blinked. They tossed us pennies, the spinning flat metallic bird will hit the water with a little flap and wing zig-zagging down the water’s track our underwater eyes will watch it like a cat as its dark bottomed sound wards like a pendulum winging from side to side, now black. Now bright, now black, now bright Catching the dying day light down. The coal dark tides of the ship Every shadow we saw was a possible shark But we followed that flat dark light Even if the propellers would suddenly turn Burning the water to murderous cold We would never come nearer to gold. Edward Braithwaite
Send your creative writing to sundaymagazine@guyanatimesgy.com
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March 16, 2014
Times Sunday Magazine19
Times World
Mineral hints at bright blue rocks deep in the Earth
M
inerals preserved in diamond have revealed hints of the bright blue rocks that exist deep within the Earth. They also provide the first direct evidence that there may be as much water trapped in those rocks as there is in all the oceans. T h e diamond, from central-west Brazil, contains minerals that formed as deep as 600km down and that have significant amounts of water trapped within them. Researchers have published their findings in the journal Nature. The study suggests water may be stored deep in the interiors of many rocky planets. Diamonds, brought to the Earth's surface in vio-
lent eruptions of deep volcanic rocks called kimberlites, provide a tantalising window into the deep Earth. A research team led by Prof Graham Pearson of
The Brazilian diamond was sculpted by corrosive fluids on its way up to the surface
the University of Alberta, Canada, studied a diamond from a 100-million-year-old kimberlite found in Juina, Brazil, as part of a wider project. They noticed that it contained a mineral, ringwoodite, which is only thought to form between 410km and
660km beneath the Earth's surface, showing just how deep some diamonds originate.
Buried oceans
While ringwoodite has previously been found in meteorites, this is the first time a terrestrial ringwoodite has been seen. But more extraordinarily, the research-
ers found that the mineral contains about 1per cent water. While this sound like very little, because ringwoodite makes up almost all of this immense portion of the deep Earth, it adds up to a huge amount of deep water. Dr Sally Gibson from the University of Cambridge, who was not involved in the
work, commented: "Finding water in such large concentrations is a hugely significant development in our understanding of the ultimate origin of water now present at Earth's surface." The observation is the first physical evidence that water can be stored in the deep interiors of planets and solves a 25-year-old controversy about whether the deep Earth is dry, wet, or wet in
Blue planet- Ringwoodite minerals reveal hints of what things might look like deep within the Earth
patches. Discussing his findings, Prof Pearson told BBC News: "The discovery highlights the unique value of
natural diamonds in trapping and preserving fragments of the deep Earth. "It's incredible to think that, as you hold this sample in your hand, the residual pressure at the interface between the diamond and the inclusion is 20,000 atmospheres." Describing his diamond sample, he said: "It looks like it's been to hell and back, which it has."
Blue planet
Prof Joseph Smyth of the University o f Colorado h a s spent many y e a r s studying ringwoodite and similar minerals synthesised in his labora-
tory. He said: "I think it's stunning! It implies that the interior may store several times the amount of water in the oceans. It tells us that hydrogen is an essential in-
gredient in the Earth and not added late from comets. "This discovery implies that hydrogen may control the interior processes of the Earth just as it controls the surface processes, and that water planets, like Earth, may be common in our galaxy." A key question posed by the observation is to understand the extent to which plate tectonics on Earth leads to oceans of water being recycled deep within our planet, and to predict the likely amounts of water trapped in other rocky planets. Ringwoodite is expected to form deep in Mars as well, for example, where it sits against the metallic core. Grains of the same mineral synthesised in Prof Smyth's laboratory shine bright blue under the microscope. Given the new findings of ringwoodite's water-bearing capabilities, its abundance at depth, and its beautiful hue, the term "blue planet" seems even more appropriate for Earth. (BBC)
Skull fragments reveal new ancient crocodile species
T
The species has been named Koumpiodontosuchus aprosdokiti
wo fossilised skull fragments from a 2ft (60cm) crocodile found on the Isle of Wight point to the discovery of a new ancient species, a study has found. The pieces - a snout and back part of the skull - were found by different private collectors three months apart. Experts at the Dinosaur Isle museum near Sandown found the 126 million-year-old fragments "fitted together perfectly to make a complete skull". The species has been named Koumpiodontosuchus aprosdokiti. The name - meaning "unexpected button-toothed crocodile" - was given by University of Portsmouth palaeontologist Dr Steve Sweetman, who has published a paper on the discovery in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica. The first piece, the skull, was found on a beach near Sandown in March 2011 by Diane Trevarthen
who was on a fossil-hunting holiday with her family. She took it to the museum where staff thought it might belong to a large Cretaceous crocodile baby. Three months later, Austin and Finley Nathan found the snout while fossil-hunting on their holiday. When museum staff saw their find, they recalled seeing the other piece and asked Trevarthen to bring it back. Both collectors donated their specimens to the museum. Dr Sweetman said: "Both parts of this wonderful little skull are in good condition, which is most unusual when you consider that crashing waves usually batter and blunt the edges of fossils like this within days or even hours of them being washed onto the beach. "Both parts must therefore have been found very soon after they were released from the mud and debris originally laid down on
a dinosaur-trampled river flood- unique among crocodyliforms. mouth, where the airway from plain around 126 million years "They were used to crush mol- the nose opens, was surrounded lusc shells and other inverte- by bones at the very back of the ago. "The sheer serendipity of this brates with tough outer coatings." palate. But after the skull had been "This tells us that the discovdiscovery is quite bizarre. "Finding the two parts is in it- cleaned, Dr Sweetman could see ery is not only a new species but self remarkable. That they should it had significant differences in also a new genus of ancient croc be found three months apart by the arrangement of bones. closely related to, but subtly dif"The location of the hole in the ferent to, those alive today." different collectors and taken to the museum where the same members of staff were on duty and therefore able to recall the first specimen defies belief." When he first saw it Dr Sweetman thought the skull belonged to a Bernissartia fagesii crocodile, known from skeletons of a similar age discovered in Belgium and Spain. "I was convinced it was a Bernissartia skull because of its small size the fully grown animal was only a little over two feet long from nose to tail - but particularly because of its button-shaped The bone structure at the back of the palate of the skull is different to other ancient species teeth, which are
20 Times Sunday Magazine
guyanatimesgy.com
March 16, 2014
Times Tech
A
pple on Monday released an update to its iOS 7 mobile operating system, iOS 7.1, with new features such as CarPlay and fixing bugs. With iOS 7.1, Apple also tweaked its Siri voice assistant, iTunes Radio, and its Touch ID fingerprint sensor. The company streamlined the operating system to make it work better with the iPhone 4, made some user interface refinements, and included some stability
Tech news
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and accessibility improvements. The update is available immediately, and the Apple devices will alert users about it over the next week. iOS 7.1 marks the first major update following Apple's release of iOS 7 about six months ago. Apple initially unveiled iOS 7 at its developer conference in June of last year and released the operating system in September. The software underwent a complete de-
sign overhaul, with everything from the typography and color schemes getting an update. iOS 7 also added useful features like automatic updates to make everyday use easier, AirDrop, and iTunes Radio, as well as a new control center that gives quick access to mostused features. Since the introduction of iOS 7, Apple had released five beta updates of iOS 7.1 to developers. About 83 percent of Apple device users have downloaded iOS 7, Apple said. The operating system won't run on the original iPad from 2010 and any iPhones older than the iPhone 4. Apple streamlined functions in iOS 7.1 to make the experience faster for iPhone 4 users, which have a much less advanced chip than Apple's newest phones and tablets. With iOS 7, Siri recognized that a user was done talking because the person
paused for a couple of seconds. Now, users can hold down the home button the entire time they're talking to Siri. Once they lift their finger, Siri knows they're done talking. Both ways of interacting are available in iOS 7.1. Apple also included new male and female voices for Mandarin Chinese, British English, Australian English, and Japanese. iTunes Radio also got some tweaks. There's a new search field that allows users to create stations based on their favorite songs or artists. Users can buy albums with a single tap from iTunes Radio, rather than only buying singles. And for the first time, users can now subscribe to iTunes Match from their mobile devices rather than from the desk-
Mark Zuckerberg 'confused and frustrated' by US spying
acebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has said he has called President Barack Obama to "express frustration" over US digital surveillance. The 29-year-old said in a blog post the US government "should be the champion for the internet, not a threat". His comments come a day after a report the US National Security Agency (NSA) imitated a Facebook server to infect surveillance targets' computers. The NSA said the report was "inaccurate". Zuckerberg said in September that the US "blew it" on internet spying. The tech founder wrote on Thursday "it seems like it will take a very long time for true full reform".
Broken trust?
"When our engineers work tirelessly to improve security, we imagine we're protecting you against criminals, not our own government," he said in his blog post. "The US government should be the champion for the internet, not a threat. "They need to be
garding "recent reports in the press about alleged activities by the US intelligence community.'' She gave no further comment.
'Setting fire'
much more transparent about what they're doing, or otherwise people will believe the worst." The NSA's activities were leaked by a former contractor for the agency, Edward Snowden, last year. His leaks have pointed to the NSA collecting phone records, tapping fibre-optic cables that carry global communications and hacking networks. According to the documents, the agencies had "backdoor" access to the servers of nine major technology companies including Microsoft, Yahoo, Google, Facebook, PalTalk, AOL, Skype,
YouTube and Apple. All the companies named have denied their involvement. The NSA called the latest claims, that it expanded surveillance by using malware, "inaccurate". The agency said in a statement: "The NSA uses its technical capabilities only to support lawful and appropriate foreign intelligence operations, all of which must be carried out in strict accordance with its authorities." White House spokeswoman Caitlin Hayden confirmed that the president spoke with Zuckerberg on Wednesday evening re-
Since claims emerged that the security services were using social media and technology companies to monitor people, Facebook has teamed up with Google, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter, AOL, LinkedIn and Yahoo to form an alliance called Reform Government Surveillance. The group has called for "wide-scale changes" to US government snooping. In his latest blog post, Zuckerberg said that to keep the internet strong, "we need to keep it secure". Earlier this week, Snowden told a conference that mass surveillance conducted by the US and other governments was "setting fire to the future of the internet". Earlier this month, European Commission Vice-President Neelie Kroes said billions of people around the world do not trust the internet. (BBC)
top. In the calendar month view, users can now toggle to see daily appointments. And the Touch ID fingerprint reader became more accurate with iOS 7.1. There should be fewer false rejections as well as quicker response times in reading fingerprints. iOS 7.1 also includes a camera update that's specific to iPhone 5S users. That's because the newer phone uses Apple's advanced A7 processor while older devices have less-powerful chips. HDR, or "high dynamic range," will automatically turn on when it's needed. That takes many photos at once in different exposures to create a sharp image that
Tech Byte
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looks closer to what the human eye sees, as the varying highlights and shadows are all accounted for. Meanwhile, iOS 7.1 users will be able to take advantage of CarPlay, which Apple unveiled last week at the Geneva Motor Show. The feature is a means for an iPhone (5 and newer) to power a touch screen on a new car's dashboard. The interface is iOS-like, but vastly simplified compared with what's seen on a phone or tablet. Functionality is limited too - really just letting users access maps and audio, though Siri can read messages and take dictation for responses. (CNET)
Tiny bladder pressure sensor could provide life-saving information
h e n people have nerve problems such as those caused by spinal injuries, they can lose the ability to feel when their bladder is full. This means that they don't know when it needs to be emptied, resulting in a build-up of pressure that can damage both the bladder and their kidneys. Now, a tiny sensor may offer a better way of assessing their condition, to see if surgery is required or if medication will suffice. Presently, in order to observe how well the bladder is functioning, a catheter is inserted into the patient's urethra and used to fill their bladder with saline solution. This is understandably uncomfortable for the patient, plus it's claimed to provide an inaccurate picture of what's going on, as the bladder fills up much more quickly than would normally be the case. That's why scientists at Norwegian research group SINTEF are proposing replacing the catheters with tiny pressure sensors. The current prototypes can be injected into the bladder directly through the skin, and
could conceivably stay in place for months or even years, providing readings without any discomfort, and without requiring the bladder to be filled mechanically. Patients would be able to move around normally, plus the risk of infection would reportedly be reduced. Currently readings are transmitted from the prototypes via a thin wire that extends from the senor out through the skin, although it is hoped that subsequent versions could transmit wirelessly – perhaps even to the patient's smartphone. Next month, a clinical trial involving three spinal injury patients is scheduled to begin at Norway's Sunnaas Hospital. Down the road, plans call for trials involving 20 to 30 test subjects. Although they're currently about to be tested in the bladder, the sensors could conceivably be used to measure pressure almost anywhere in the body. (Gizmag)
guyanatimesgy.com
March 16, 2014
Times Sunday Magazine 21
Times Art
- The artistic mind of a culinary expert
Perfecting his plate
C
ulinary artist Kester Robinson is a celebrated pastry chef in the Caribbean, known for his intricate, edible art. Hailing from Georgetown, Robinson graduated from Central High School, the University of Guyana IDCE, where he pursued Hospitality and Tourism, Carnegie School of Home Economics, graduating with a diploma in Catering and Hospitality, and UWI-Open Campus for Certification in Wedding Planning and Decor. Currently, he is attending the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism and Hospitality Institute, pursuing studies in baking and pastry arts. Additionally, he works part-time for a restaurant in Trinidad. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Robinson said he knew he wanted to be a chef since the age of 12. “Just around the time of Common Entrance examinations, when persons asked, ‘What would you like to become?’ I just said, ‘A chef.’ But I wasn’t sure as to what type. During my mid-teenage years, I discovered my passion for the pastry arts. My father’s side of the family has many talented bakers and restaurateurs, so I think I got that in my genes also,” he explained. Robinson pointed out, as a pastry chef, he loves baking desserts. More specifically, he enjoys working with chocolate, creating delectable desserts that “melt as soon
as it enters the mouth”. He mentioned that Crème Caramel is one of his favourites to make. It is a dessert that is highly rated in Trinidad by local and international customers. “I’m not a designer in fashion, but in food art. I recently started to create edible art - about one year now - but I’m a chef for over three years. My inspiration comes from within and from some of the world’s pastry masters, who are always looking for something new to create or finding new techniques. I also have an inner drive that pushes me - my love for art. I
Sugar show piece
always try to have my dishes display my art, talent and creativity. But they must be completed with good taste. The result? A mixture of art and comfort in my creations,” the chef outlined. The pastry chef’s upcoming venture is to continue his culinary education in France. He disclosed that after completing his present degree, he plans to tour major countries that contributed to the art of pastry-making. In addition, he is focused on improving his professional skills to reflect those of international master pastry chefs. “I also hope to return to
Edible sculpture
Guyana to change the way people view the profession. I want to mould the mind of our young people who would like to venture into this field. My dream is to open a chain of restaurants in the Caribbean and Guyana. I always believe that one must always live a full life loving yourself, those people around you and appreciate a person for who they are. We must always be grateful for the simplest things in life; share the love,” he declared. As a young pastry chef himself, Robinson encourages youths, especially those interested in pursuing studies in the culinary field, to “work hard towards their passion or love. Never do it for the money or fame, which comes eventually, but work on mastering their art and using the creative gifts God has given them. More importantly, do it because they love it”. For more information on the pastry chef’s work, visit Royalty Cakes by Chef Robinson on Facebook.
Chef Kester Robinson
Artistic guitar cake
Foundation needs your help T
he REDbandaid Foundation is a nonprofitable organisation with the aim of giving back to those in need, and now it needs
your help. The organisation’s new website needs creative input and its members are welcoming persons to help in this regard. The REDbandaid Foundation is having a Photo and Article Competition and
the top three winners will be featured on its new website, and Facebook page. The theme is, "A day in the life of a Guyanese Child". Co-founder, Jenn AbdoolHales, in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday
Magazine, outlined that all articles submitted must be original and should not contain any copyright material; all pieces should not contain any faces of children; genuine thoughts and personal opinions on the topic are welcomed.
There is no word limit on the articles - so let the creative juices flow! The closing date for all entries is 31 March 2014. Please send your entries to akilah@redbandaid.org or visit REDbandaid Foundation on Facebook.
22 Times Sunday Magazine
guyanatimesgy.com
March 16, 2014
Times Heritage
By Deomattie Seeram
O
ur East Indian ancestors came to British Guiana in 1838, bringing with them their culture, customs and religions. Consequently, our ancestors built mandirs and mosques to fulfil congregational worship. This week, we will focus on age-old mandirs that are still in existence. Located in Ankerville, Corentyne, Berbice, deep in the canfields, is an ancient mandir (only the top is visible). Speaking with the villagers of Ankerville, it was learnt that this mandir was built by the first batch of East Indians who came to Guyana. One villager commented that “God is powerful” because twice the current management of the sugar plantation was unsuccessful in its attempt to destroy the mandir. She said it did suffer a few cracks, but did not break. She recalled her grandparents told her the British took care of the mandir, cleaning the surroundings and lime-washing the lingam (representation of Lord Shiva), which was housed in the mandir. Legend has it that when parsad is offered at the mandir, an alligator, with a gold ‘galihaar’ (necklace), comes out and eats the offering. Bath Estate, West Berbice, boasts another longstanding mandir. This mandir is said to be over 100 years old and was built
Mandir located at Bath Backdam
by our East Indian ancestors, who also lived on the plantation. It housed logies, schools, hospitals and the masters’ living quarters. The lingam, which is in the mandir, was said to be the size of an egg when the mandir was first built. Today, it has increased in size. Villagers have recognised the value of this mandir and have maintained it throughout the years. Additional works were done at the mandir and a shed was built.
Another age-old mandir, which dates back to indentureship times, is located in Bath backdam. This mandir is very small and houses a lingam. Some villagers offer their prayers at the mandir when they are passing daily to go about their work. Around 1920, a group of Hindus living in Versailles approached the Versailles Sugar Estate management for a plot of land to build a temple. Versailles Plantation had bought the Malgre Tout Plantation,
Bath Estate's mandir, West Berbice
which was established in the 1800s, and operated it as a sugar estate well into the 1900s. However, by 1920, the factory was in ruins, so the request was granted and a wooden structure with a mud floor was built on the abandoned Malgre Tout Plantation. At the same time, a tall conical shaped concrete structure called a Shivala (temple of Lord Shiva) was constructed from the bricks of the abandoned Malgre Tout Sugar Estate. It was plastered with ce-
ment, painted in white and a stone lingam was placed nearby, surrounded by a jasmine hedge where devotees threw ‘dhar’ early in the morning to Lord Shiva. The main temple was painted in a dark maroon colour, while the inside was whitewashed with lime given by the Versailles Estate management. The Versailles Shivala was one of three such structures built in the colony - the other two were located on the East Coast of
Demerara and West Coast of Berbice – and were all designed by the same architect who hailed from Lucknow, India. However, the chief builder supervising the construction was a holy man from Varanasi (Benares), in India, fondly called ‘Banana Sadhu’. The name was given since he brought bananas from the local growers as far as Canal No. 1 and rewarded every person with one banana for each brick brought to the construction site. When the bananas ran out, legend has it, he carefully collected the bricks, recorded the names of those who brought them and ensured that the person received their allotted share of bananas. Several sacred trees to the Hindus were planted at the same mandir: the papal (peepal) tree, bael tree, neem tree, several types of mango trees, kowa (jack fruit), jack nut (katahar) and bread fruit. The first official priest, at the ‘matya’, was Pandit Loknauth from Lucknow, India. He arrived to the colony in the early 1900s and was assigned to Plantation Versailles. Years have passed, but the places of worship built by our ancestors still remain as sanctuaries for many and as a testimony to their faith in the ‘supreme’ (God) during their years of hardship. (First Published in 2013 Horizons Guyana Magazine)
Brain Teaser Answer 1) tan + go = tango. 2) ad + dress = address. 3) car + pet = carpet.
KID SUDOKU
4) sea + son = season. 5) pop + corn = popcorn.
SUDOKU
CROSSWORD Distant view of Stabroek Market (n.d.)
Vendors at the Stabroek Market stelling (n.d.)
Botanical Gardens' bandstand, British Guiana (n.d.)
guyanatimesgy.com
March 16, 2014
Times Sunday Magazine 23
Times Travel & Tourism
Experience a kaleidoscope of colours at the National Stadium
'Guyana Baboo', Terry Gajraj promises a spectacular performance
T
hroughout the country, numerous Phagwah celebrations with entertaining performances and delicious sweetmeats for the entire family would be among the main attractions. One such celebration, which sees thousands celebrating the festival of colours together, is the Phagwah Festival at the National Stadium,
Providence. Music will be provided by Shakti Strings Orchestra and there will be performances by Terry Gajraj, Prince JP, Ishara Dance Troupe and other top artistes. The event, in collaboration with Hindus United for Guyana, welcomes all Guyanese to unite to celebrate the joys of Phagwah. At the event there will be chowtaal competition and dances. There will also be sweetmeats, seven-curry and other delectable delicacies on sale. In addition, there will be water slides, trampoline and ferris wheels for children. A water sprinkler will also be available. A free flight to any one of Fly Jamaica's destinations, compliments of Fly Jamaica, is up for grabs – among other prizes. There will also be free giveaways of t-shirts and powder. It is a family event; no alcohol is allowed. Fun starts from 15:00hrs.
Thousands, of all ethnic backgrounds, gathered last year at the stadium to celebrate Phagwah
Have fun with water
A cultural programme is planned
Delicious sweetmeats and other delectable dishes will be on sale
Enjoy playing with powder
24
Times Sunday Magazine
guyanatimesgy.com
March 16, 2014
Times Last Laugh
Dogs are enjoying the good life By Melvin Durai
M
y wife, Malathi, loves dogs. She calls them "Sweetie." She also calls me "Sweetie." I don't know whether to smile or wag my tail. It's really confusing. The other day, Malathi said, "Dinner is ready, Sweetie." I rushed to the kitchen, along with the dogs. "Silly dogs," I thought. "You're not getting any of my dinner." The meal looked delicious, and I would have complimented my wife, had she not placed it on the floor. The two dogs got to the food before I could. Their heads, unfortunately, are closer to the floor. That allows them to quickly slurp food and anything else that looks remotely like food, such as dirty socks or tofu. If you own a dog, you may not need a vacuum cleaner. Within a minute, the dogs -- a Labrador and Golden Retriever -- had licked their bowls clean and were looking up at us with expressions that said, "Come on, folks. When are you going to feed us?" Even if they've just eaten a big meal, they want to keep eating. They're a lot like me. Except that I'm too proud to beg. When the dogs are wolfing their food, I try not to sit in front of them and drool. Unfortunately, they never extend the same courtesy to me. I can't eat anything without enduring their sad-eyed expressions that say, "Oh please, we haven't eaten any food since last summer, when we ate all your tennis balls. If you don't feed us, we'll fill your entire home with drool." The dogs aren't ours. We're just dog-sitting, un-
til their owners return from vacation. Dog-sitting is a lot like baby-sitting, except for three major differences: (1) babies have trouble catching food with their mouths; (2) babies are usually uglier; and (3) babies are nicer to trees. Most dogs in America
stories -- usually about something amazing she heard on NPR (National Public Radio) -- the dogs will just sit there and listen attentively. I know what they're thinking: "If we sit still and act interested, maybe she'll feed us." Dogs are smarter than they look.
The price
are so lucky. They're fed and treated better than many children around the world. And they never have to do the dishes. You can't even get them to take the trash out. They must have a powerful union. My wife knows a lot about dogs. She's a veterinarian specializing in epidemiology. It took me three weeks to learn how to spell "epidemiology" and another three weeks to learn how to pronounce it. I still don't know what it means. All I know is that Malathi loves animals, especially dogs. She kisses them and pets them and talks to them, making me wish I had four legs. I think she likes dogs partly because they're better listeners than men. When she's telling one of her long
I don't mind Malathi babying the dogs, but I wish it weren't so confusing. The other night, she said, "Are you coming to bed, Sweetie?" I rushed to the bedroom, along with the dogs. "Silly dogs," I thought. "You're not snuggling in bed with us. Not until you learn to use mouthwash." The Labrador jumped on the bed before I could. I looked at my wife. She looked at me with a puzzled expression that said, "Did someone call YOU to bed?" Then she petted the dog. "He's going to be with us for only a short time," she said. "OK, Sweetie," I said. "I love you." "I love you, too," she said. "I was talking to the dog," I said.
In the hospital the relatives gathered in the waiting room, where their family member lay gravely ill. Finally, the doctor came in looking tired and sombre. "I'm afraid I'm the bearer of bad news," he said, as he surveyed the worried faces. "The only hope left for your loved one at this time is a brain transplant. It's an experimental procedure, semi-risky and you will have to pay for the brain yourselves." The family members sat silent as they absorbed the news. After a great length of time, someone asked, "Well, how much does a brain cost?" The doctor quickly responded, “$5,000 for a male brain, and $1,000 for a female brain." The moment turned awkward. Men in the room tried not to smile, avoiding eye contact with the women, but some actually smirked. A man, unable to control his curiosity, blurted out the question everyone wanted to ask, "Why is the male brain so much more?" The doctor smiled at the childish innocence and so to the entire group said, "It's just standard pricing procedure. We have to mark down the price of the female brains, because they've been used!"
Parental excuses
These are actual excuse notes from parents excusing their children from missing school (includes original spelling): Dear School: Please ekscuse John being absent on Jan. 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, and also 33. Please excuse Roland from P.E. for a few days. Yesterday he fell out of a tree and misplaced his hip. Please excuse Jennifer for missing school yesterday. We forgot to get the Sunday paper off the porch, and when we found it Monday, we thought it was Sunday. Carlos was absent yesterday because he was playing football. He was hurt in the growing part.
My feet
A three-year old put his shoes on by himself. His mother noticed the left was on the right foot. She said, "Son, your shoes are on the wrong feet." He looked up at her with a raised brow and said, "Don't kid me, Mom. I KNOW they're my feet."
Bible story
A father was reading Bible stories to his young son. He read, "The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city, but his wife looked back and was turned to salt." His son asked, "What happened to the flea?"
Stairway to Heaven
A redhead, brunette, and blonde were on their way to Heaven. God told them the stairway to Heaven was 1000 steps, and on every 5th step He’d tell them a joke. But, they must not laugh or else they couldn’t enter heaven. The brunette went first and started
laughing on the 65th step, so she could not enter Heaven. The redhead went next and started laughing on the 320th step, so she could not enter Heaven either. Then, it was the blonde’s turn. When she got to the 999th step, she started laughing. “Why are you laughing?” God asked. “I didn’t tell a joke.” “I know,” the blonde replied. “I just got the first one.”
Measuring
A city slicker came upon two country folk balancing a long piece of lumber vertically on the ground, while a third fellow with a measuring tape climbed up on the lumber. “What are you doing?”, asked the urbanite. “We are trying to measure this piece of wood,” replied the country cousin. “Why not lay it down and measure it?” asked the city fellow. Nope,” replied the country boy. “That won’t do it! We want the height, not the length!”
Shrinking clothes
Max went into the doctor’s office for his annual check-up, and the Doc asked if there was anything unusual he should know about. So Max told the Doc that his suit must have shrunk over the last year, because it didn’t fit when he went to get ready for a wedding recently. The Doc said, “Suits don’t shrink just sitting in a closet. You probably put on a few pounds.” “That’s just it, Doc, I know I haven’t gained a single pound since the last time I wore it.” “Well, then,” said Doc, “You must have a case of Furniture Disease.” “What in the world is Furniture Disease?” asked Max. “That’s when your chest starts sliding down into your drawers.”
Always complaining
Brother John entered the "Monastery of Silence" and the Abbott said, "Brother, this is a silent monastery; you are welcome here as long as you like, but you may not speak until I direct you to do so." Brother John lived in the monastery for five years before the Abbott said to him, "Brother John, you have been here five years now; you may speak two words." Brother John said, "Hard bed." "I'm sorry to hear that," the Abbot said. "We will get you a better bed." After another five years, Brother John was called by the Abbott. "You may say another two words, Brother John." "Cold food," said Brother John, and the Abbott assured him that the food would be better in the future. On his 15th anniversary at the monastery, the Abbott again called Brother John into his office. "Two words you may say today." "I quit," said Brother John. The Abbot replied, "It is probably best; you've done nothing but complain since you got here."
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