Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

Sunday October 2, 2016

Times

Star Times Bollywood:

John Abraham denies reports of slapping fan See story on page 14

Magazine Reflections on a great Guyanese artist Page 16

Exploring wild Guyana Page 3

A tribute to my sister Page 5

The Hot and Cold Lake Page 8

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2 Sunday Times Magazine

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OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Feature

G

uided by its motto, “Utilising Education Forces, Promoting Green Resources”, the young, energetic members of the Eco Trust Society are focused on the sustainability of their environment.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, Madhavi Indarjeet, one member of Eco Trust, spoke of her experiences working with the organisation and how it helped her become a guardian of her environment.

“As a member of Eco Trust Society for the past two years, the experience has left me with a wider appreciation for the environment. It has impacted my lifestyle by making me conscious of eating healthier, employing the three R’s [reduce, reuse and recycle] at home and recognising my duty towards the environment. By participating in activities through the society, I have had the chance to gain valuable knowledge and meet with other environment advocates and people involved with environmental related organisations,” she stated.

The Eco Trust Society is a social, and the only environmental, group operating under the School of

Display on recycled plastic bottles

Spreading messages of love and awareness of the environment on Main Street

Eco Trust members at International Coastal Cleanup in 2014

Earth and Environmental Sciences, known as SEES, (now a faculty) at the University of Guyana.

Founded in 1992, the Society later became dormant, but was resuscitated in 2005 by a vibrant and enthusiastic executive body. It participated in a host of activities in fulfilling its mission to save and spread awareness on sustainability of the environment.

In 2005, Eco Trust members took part in the Environmental Protection

Agency’s Annual Green Walk in observance of World Environment Day and participated in a tree planting exercise.

Members also attended World Environment Week Lunchtime Seminar series, 2nd National Capacity Building Workshop for Environmental Clubs and displayed posters at Environmental Concert held by School of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

During the year 2006, Eco Trust continued with the hosting of a range of activities with a membership of approximately 67 active students including the executive committee members.

For UG Career Day, held during March 2006, Eco Trust presented a poster describing its objectives, roles and activities. On March 23, 2006, three members of Eco Trust hosted ‘talks’ at St. Andrew’s Primary School, Georgetown, and St. Andrew’s Primary School,

Coven John, for World Water Day, where the importance of water and the methods of sampling were explained to the recently established environmental clubs at the aforementioned schools.

Eco Trust is focused on ensuring its aims are fulfilled. Madhavi stated that the Society’s executive body wishes to become more recognised in its quest to foster a culture of sustainability and a greener future.

“The society is also committed to promoting a mutually supportive environment among its members.

The members will continue to motivate each other to stay true to the motto and use our voices and actions to defend the environment and ensure sustainable development to create a better tomorrow,” Madhavi declared.

Additionally, the Society was involved in capacity building exercises, inclusive of the IADB-CPDC Workshop in Techniques for Successful Proposal Writing and Resource Mobilisation, held in January in Guyana and

April 2006 in Barbados.

The then Vice-President of Eco Trust was a representative of the organisation at the International Youth Conference for SelfCooperation held in St. Lucia during the month of May. This conference was hosted by the Caribbean Youth Environmental Network (CYEN), Caribbean Regional E n v i r o n m e n t a l Programme, the United Nations International Student Movement and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

Eco Trust promoted several activities aimed at raising environmental consciousness among its members and youths on campus. One such activity was the beautification of the environs around the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Natural Sciences through the planting of a number of exotic tree species.

This activity was done to commemorate World Environment Day. Since then, the Eco Trust Society is actively involved in a

number of activities (both as host and participant) and workshops.

The Eco Trust Society is focused on environmental advocacy, activism and education; conservation practices; the sustainable and equitable use of resources; the reduction, reuse and recycling of waste.

Its activities include Christmas Feeding Program; Christmas Orphanage Drive; Food Drive for World Food Day; the World Environment Day Program; the World Earth Day; tree planting exercises; recycling plastic bottles; providing benches for seating (recycled from wooden crates); spreading messages of love for the environment in schools and on the street.

The Society also actively participates in Earth Hour hosted by CYEN; International Coastal Cleanup initiative; seminars and workshops; ‘green’ walks; Energy Week Walk; University of Guyana’s Career Day; Tutorial High School’s Career Day; and New Campbellville Secondary School’s Open Career Day. Students of SEES automatically become members of the society; there are approximately 124 members in the Eco Trust Society.

The society strives to equip members with a valuable experience, a strong ethical outlook, and intellectual fulfilment from the societal activities. All university students, from any degree discipline, are encouraged to help the society in addressing local environmental and sustainability issues that relate to wider problems in the Guyanese society.

For more information, go to Eco Trust Society on Facebook, ecotrustsociety on Instagram or @EcoTrustSociety on Twitter.

A member (right) educating students on conservation of the environment

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine

3

Times Feature

Exploring wild Guyana Biologist reminisces of his work and discoveries in Guyana’s interior

U

ncovering new species of amphibians and reptiles in Guyana, some found nowhere else in the world, Philippe J. R. Kok, a “taxon-oriented scientist”, is certainly someone you would enjoy chatting with.

The 45-year-old holds a PhD in Biology. He was born in the (Democratic Republic of Congo, where his father was a medical doctor for the Kilomoto mines. Philippe has been working for more than 20 years as a research associate at the Royal Belgian Institute of Naturals Sciences, and is working at the Free University of Brussels since 2009, where he also teaches a course entitled “Field Herpetology” (a course he taught four times in Guyana).

Guyana Times Sunday Magazine had the privilege of interviewing the scientist, who outlined some of his most exciting discoveries in Guyana.

Guyana Times Sunday Magazine (GTSM): Why did you choose Guyana as one of the countries to conduct research?

Philippe J. R. Kok (PK): I have a long interest in studying the herpetofauna of the Guiana Shield, and I was invited by a colleague to a conference in Georgetown back in the early 2000s to present some of my research done in French Guiana. That was my first visit in Guyana.

Although the airplane company lost my bag, thus making my first journey a bit difficult, I immediately fell in

Exploring the summit of Yuruani-tepui, looking east towards Guyana

love with the country and its people. There is a very special blend in Guyana that I immediately appreciated.

The country still has large pristine areas, and I like to be in the field far from civilization. It was also the opportunity for me to get closer to the famous “tepuis” (tabletop mountains) that I dreamed to study since I was a child. Shortly after my first visit, I got the chance to start a project about the herpetofaunal diversity in Kaieteur National Park. That was enough to make me become addicted to Guyana.

GTSM: Do you work with a team in Guyana?

PK: Yes, most of the time.

I have been actively working with many Guyanese, Philippe at the base of Kaieteur Falls

including colleagues from UG, parataxonomists, rangers, and even gold/diamond miners who got interested in my research. I have fantastic memories working with some of them, and I am sad that I cannot get in touch with some of these miners these days as they live a simple life with poor communication. I always tried to have my Guyanese colleagues involved in my research and publications, and I even dedicated some new species to them. For instance, Oreophrynella seegobini is dedicated to Giuliano “Kinky” Seegobin, a great guy working in the Chenapau area.

GTSM: What's the focus of your research in Guyana?

PK: My research focus extends beyond Guyana alone. I have several main research topics, which include the evolution, systematics, taxonomy and biogeography of amphibians and reptiles in the Neotropics, more specifically in the Guiana Shield. My work now primarily focuses on vertebrate evolution in the Pantepui region (the socalled “Lost World”).

I try to understand the spatial patterns of biological diversity (my models being the amphibians and reptiles) and its causes through geological time, which implies to better understand the relationships between all these species - their genealogical history to make it simple. To achieve this, I am documenting the diversity of amphibians and reptiles (describing new species when I find them), and collecting DNA to perform molecular phylogenies. At the end, I hope that my research will help to take adequate measures for the conservation of these fantastic animals and their habitats.

The data collected are published in scientific journals. The specimens are kept in museums to allow other researchers to access them and study them.

GTSM: What are some of your exciting discoveries?

PK: I have been lucky to make several great discoveries. I described many new species and even genera of amphibians and reptiles (among them 17 new species from Guyana, one of them dedicated to the former Prime Minister of Guyana, Honourable Samuel Hinds for his constant support in my research). I also rediscovered one of the rarest mammals in the world, the Roraima mouse, on the summit of Wei-Assipu-tepui in Guyana, which allowed us to develop new hypotheses about the evolution of rodents in the area.

I was actually the first to take a photograph of that species alive, and probably been the first to be bitten by one of these extremely rare mice. Maybe one of my most interesting findings is that the genetic diversity among tepui summit species of amphibians and reptiles is much lower than everyone expected. For years we thought that these animals were living in isolation for millions of years, but my research showed that we were wrong. Most of these populations have been in contact relatively recently.

I still have many nice discoveries unpublished as I am still working on them.I am conducting (or have conducted) my research in two main areas in Guyana: the Pakaraima highlands (from Kaieteur National Park to the summit of Mount Roraima) and in Iwokrama.

These locations were chosen because they fit the purposes of my research. More

Exploring a small cave on the summit of Wei-Assipu-tepui in Guyana

than ten years ago, I conducted some research in the South Rupununi savannah.

GTSM: What are your current and future projects in Guyana?

PK: I have plenty projects in the area. I am currently working on a research project about the population dynamics and population genetics of amphibians and reptiles on Mount Roraima.

The idea is to follow individuals (using extremely small transmitters) to see how far they move on the tepui.

I also investigate the relationships among individuals to see if some populations are isolated on some parts

of the summit, or if they all mix. I also have the project to write a field guide of the amphibians and reptiles of Guyana, but I still need to find some sponsors.

I love Guyana because it is wild, and I hope it will remain like that for many, many years. I am also fascinated by the many different cultures living all in a pretty stable harmony. I think it is an example for many countries.

For more information on Philippe’s discoveries, visitwww.philippekok.com (Photos copyright to Philippe J. R. Kok)

"Hypsiboas liliae" - new species from Kaieteur National Park, which Philippe dedicated to his daughter, Lili Kok. This species is known only to Guyana

"Gonatodes timidus" - a new lizard species from the Iwokrama Mountains, which has not be found anywhere else since

4

Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Feature The Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana seeks to dispel superstitions about epilepsy while enabling epileptics

“Aside from dealing with the still present danger of seizures epileptics must also cope with a number of potential side effects of their medication which may have a considerable effect on their daily lives”, says EFG

E

pilepsy means the same as “seizure disorders”. It is said that “public perception and treatment of people with epilepsy are often bigger problems than actual seizures”, which is why the Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana (EFG) is an unwavering ally in the battle against this debilitating medical condition.

EFG is an association of physicians, health professionals and allied and para-health professionals and other persons of any sort – including epileptics themselves – in Guyana, committed to promoting the equal health care access for people living with epilepsy in Guyana, and the rights of people suffering from seizures, especially in

the areas of health, education and employment. The Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana was registered on Nov. 14, 2014 under the Friendly Societies’ Act. EFG is a Provisional Chapter of the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and will become a fully chapter after ratification by the IBE’s 2107 General Assembly.

In an interview with the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, president of EFG, Dr. Thomas Singh, said that the idea of an Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana was first mooted in 2011 at a meeting of the nowdefunct Justice, Compassion, and Peace Commission of the Guyana Presbyterian Church (GPC), set up to “...allow the

UG students, supporters, and members of the Epilepsy Foundation during an awareness walk in 2015

GPC to respond to issues that otherwise could not be accommodated in a timely fashion within the existing structures of the Church; and … allow the GPC’s constituency, i.e., the members of the church, to feel that their church is indeed concerned with the issues that affect their daily lives”.

EFG’s objectives are to raise awareness and engage in advocacy about epilepsy/seizures, and especially that it is a medical condition that can be managed; and to dispel myths and superstitions about epilepsy; help people to know how to recognize and deal with seizures when they occur, whether at home or elsewhere; work to end discrimination, at the workplace, in schools and elsewhere, against people suffering with epilepsy/seizures; advance the diagnosis, prevention,

treatment and management of epilepsy by making available to medical practitioners, hospitals, schools, and agencies and individuals dealing with people suffering with seizures/ epilepsy, the latest medical research on epilepsy (including any newly developed medication and epilepsy surgery); provide advice and counselling to people suffering with epilepsy/seizures and to their families, and especially to provide guidance on the treatment and management options available to them; promote and work towards the development and implementation of a national strategy for the prevention and control of epilepsy and encourage the drafting and enactment of appropriate legislation to support the achievement of the Foundation’s objectives. It also aims to collect data on epilepsy and seizures, and start a Guyana Registry on this disability. Additionally, the EFG hopes to more generally encourage and facilitate education, training and research in epilepsy, and to support the work of agencies and individuals that are committed enhancing scientific knowledge about epilepsy; engage in fundrais-

ing, networking, public relations and other activities that would aid in the achievement of the objectives stated here. It will also work in collaboration with any agency or organization in Guyana or elsewhere that has objectives similar to those of the Foundation’s.

“Currently, we are addressing the supply of anti-seizure medications as this is often disrupted, a circumstance that is very difficult on persons whose seizures are controlled by medication. We are also working on an arrangement with the GPHC to ensure that epileptics who come to us can be seen by the neurologist there. We plan to do an audit of epilepsy services and to begin to develop a database that would give a statistical sense of epilepsy in Guyana. We shall be conducting various education and public awareness programmes and starting a support group for epileptics and their families. Annually, we participate in the UG Medical Students' Association's Epilepsy Awareness Walk and Health Fair,” Singh outlined.

Singh added that EFG hopes to improve how people with epilepsy are perceived, ac-

cepted and valued in Guyana; ensure that they get the best medical treatment and medication available and that this is done in an affordable way; and help people with epilepsy/seizures to be able to participate as fully as possible in all life experiences.

“As a fairly new organization, we do not have that many challenges and have been fortunate to get funding for our main activities from Guyana Goldfields Inc. We thank GGI for its support, and welcome contributions from other agencies. However, a significant challenge is to get people to recognize that epilepsy is a neurological condition or disorder; and that it is not a phenomenon of the spirit world!” Singh declared.

He pointed out that improving health care in Guyana will require more doctors trained in neurology (adult and paediatric) and the acquisition of an EEG machine (used for both medical diagnosis and neurobiological research), along with the training of technical personnel.

For more information, visit Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana on Facebook.

Standing: Dr. Andrea Lambert (left), Director of the Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana, and Dr. MallikaMootoo, Vice-President of Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana. Seated: Two doctors from the United Kingdom who collaborated with the Foundation in 2015, Dr. LyviaDabydeen (seated at left) and Dr. Laura Mantoan

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Times Women

I

n memory of her sister who lost her battle to cervical cancer, Jacqueline Marshall is resolute in her efforts to educate others on the disease and the benefits of early detection.

In April 2016, Jacqueline started The Anciee Shondel Marshall Cancer Awareness Foundation in honour of her loving sister, Anciee Shondel Marshall.

“The Foundation is in memory of my (our) beloved sister, daughter, mother, friend who passed away on March 10, 2016 due to cervical cancer. Shondel died with a lot of unanswered questions pertaining to this disease. Actually, she wasn’t aware of it until three weeks prior to her death. That is why my mission is to spread awareness on cancer, encourage others to educate themselves on this disease, make necessary lifestyle changes, and, most importantly, early detection,” Jacqueline said in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

Jacqueline added that cancer took “a big chunk” out of her life due to the loss of her sister. She pointed out that her “beef” (fight) against cancer will be an ongoing one. Through social media, Jacqueline strives to reach a wide cross-section of people to spread awareness on cancer. She uses every opportunity presented to her to speak to people on preventative methods and to comfort families “affected or afflicted by the disease”.

“It doesn't matter what type of cancer it is; cancer attacks from any angle, so I’ll fight from any angle!

I take comfort in knowing Shondel knew we loved

Anciee Shondel Marshall is survived by her two children: Nicholas, 16, and Chastain, 7 years old.

According to Jacqueline, Nicholas lives with his grandmother (Jacqueline and Shondel’s mother), and Chastain lives with her dad.

“We try to get them to spend time together as much as possible, because it still is very hard on both of them having lost their mom at such a young age. I had the privilege of spending six weeks with them, and it’s clear that Chastain needs that motherly attention. However, I must give credit to her dad for all that he's doing as a single parent for his daughter. Nicholas’s dad also plays his part. This is the very reason I would like to have the Foundation get to a point where it can assist children who have lost a parent or parents to cancer.

I'm happy now with the relationship I have with the kids and their fathers. At

Anciee Shondel Marshall

her. She was a beauty inside out and a very genuine person. She was very ambitious and hardworking. Her fight with cancer was a silent and short one. She put up a great fight until she couldn’t anymore. Shondel went beyond and above for the people she cared about.

That is why this foundation is my way of saying to her and all those who are dealing with cancer that I will fight on in whatever small or large way,” Jacqueline declared.

Jacqueline said she is focused on getting certified teams of counsellors to help families deal with the consequences of this disease.

The Foundation’s plans also include increasing the volume of awareness campaigns throughout the region.

“I have a lot more planned; they’re baby steps in reaching my goals, but I’m going to keep fighting the good fight for my sister and all those affected by cancer,” she avowed.

Anciee was known as a 'hardworking individual'

Jacqueline Marshall continues to spread awareness on cancer in memory of her loving sister

the end of the day I want to fulfil my sister’s dying wish “to take care of her babies”,” the doting sister disclosed.

For more informa-

tion on how you can help Jacqueline’s fight against cancer, visit The Anicee Shondel Marshall Cancer Awareness Foundation on Facebook.

6 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Book World The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

Ric Couchman by

Petamber Persaud

(E

xtract of an interview with Ric Couchman, Georgetown, Guyana, September, 2016. Mr Couchman is an outdoorsman who would be launching four books of poetry on Friday Oc. 21, 2016 at the International Learning Institute, Queenstown) PP Whenever I introduce a book, I’d usually describe it as a treat – a literary treat, a literary delight. But to be introducing four books – I’d say this is a banquet. I noticed that in one of these books, you advised the reader against rushing through the poems. In other words, you advised the reader to savour each poem like taking a sip of honey.Why have you taken to poetry to express your thoughts?

RC It really began in high school. Well, we could go a little way back – one of the unique aspects of education in the past was the introduction of nursery rhymes to children; so I grew up on nursery rhyme and there was something fun about them. What I particularly love about nursery rhyme was the stories they told. And they were short, compressed but the stories were palpable, rich, funny and I loved them.

PP Also they were teaching aids – we learnt to count, we learnt the days of the week, the number of days in a month etc., etc., without the didactic and pedantic elements.

RC In addition to that: my high school teacher, Marjorie Cambridge, was a phenomenal teacher, who with enthusiasm and passion, shared with the class, the poetry we studied.

And then we were introduced to narrative poetry…

PP A Book of Narrative Verse RC I still have my copy to this day….

PP Before we have a go at the poems, let’s locate Ric Couchman. Who is Ric Couchman?

RC I was born in Bagottown on the East Bank [Demerara, Guyana] and I literally spent my formative days in trees.

I loved climbing trees, fruit trees of course, especially during the school holidays, form morning to evening…

I remember there was this jamoon tree at the back of the yard which was not too far from the bank of the [Demerara] river, and I could see what’s happening all around me and I would quietly sit there and observe things – the goats eating the plantain skins on the rubbish heap; I would watch the fishermen walking along the sea dam going to their boats; I would hear the different exchanges between parents and children, and adults and adults…So I was essentially a watcher, an observer.

Also I had a strong imagination. I would spend a lot of time drawing stick figures, creating stories…Then there was the cinema. My mom would take me to the nearby cinema…

PP Rajmahal or Indramahal, I can’t remember which although I spent my August school holidays in Peter’s Hall – the next village.

RC The Indramahal.I was enamoured by the black and white movies.So I consider myself to be a lover of the arts, all forms of art.

And a thinker. And the thinking aspect was born and bred right here; my intellectual background has its basis here in our country, Guyana, I didn’t have to go abroad to get that; we had a solid educational foundation in Guyana.

I attended Covent Garden Secondary School and it was a fantastic experience….

PP As you talked about trees, I recall that one of our foremost historians, Clem Seecharan, declaring that he came from bookless world yet he would find himself sitting in trees reading, reading while keeping watch over the cattle in the pasture and he has gone on to write huge tomes of history.

Now it seems as if this is another tip for emerging writers – climb a tree and observe.…

RC Yes, there is something about a tree – it is majestic, sublime, silent, yet pregnant with thoughts, it is full of life and energy, it gives birth that which we can use for nourishment…the tree is something special especially in a country like ours; it’s an awesome thing to sit in a tree, among its branches…

PP Jeremy Poynting did publish an essay on Guyanese literature and the landscape and here we are making a direct reference to a particular aspect of that landscape – the

tree.

Now, this talk of the tree has me thinking about the sea – trees and seas – and about great pieces of literature that were influenced by the seas, and the many splendid holidays I spent in Peter’s Hall, neighbouring to Bagottown, where you spent your formative days.

In Peter’s Hall, I passed much of my time in trees, fruit trees, and boating…but above all, I like visiting the farm of my grandparents which was located in Mocha [Village] and there I acquired the taste for peach…here also where there was little or no human sounds, I felt the calm, and peace and quietude despite the fact it was sometimes made eerie by the bloodcurdling cries of the jumbie birds …

RC Let’s not forget the tree in folklore which brings to

mind the silk cotton tree in the backdam…I’ve written about it in one of these books; it is called ‘white lady under di silk cotton tree’…

PP There are poems and there are poems, there is poetry and there is poetry, what is different about your poetry?

RC Well, from a literary point of view, I’ve combined them with photographic images which complement the theme/subject of the poems…Secondly, the poems are universal while coming from someone who comes out of a Caribbean context and a South American context, depending on which one I claim…Thirdly, there is a Western influence intertwined in them…

PP Like how you have used the Guyanese folklore in your poetry RC Yes. But to go a bit further, there

Books by Ric Couchman

is a strong classical influence; I grew up on Greek/ Roman/ Latin literature and so my poetry is filled with allusions to the above and to world events and people…

But although my poetry may appear sophisticated and sort of intellectual, there are readily available to the average reader PP …because of the way you use the language…

RC ...Yes, and each of my poem tells a story…

PP Earlier, we touched on your efforts to put your poetry to music but before we expand on that let’s looked at a vexing subject: the decline in the imprecation of poetry… (TO BE CONTINUED) Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Times Heritage

Part I

British historian James Rodway (1848 -1926) wrote regularly about the colony of British Guiana, from which today we are able to learn of many aspects of our early history. One such is the story behind the names of many of the plantations of the day that have now become our towns, villages and neighbourhoods. Here is an edited excerpt of his essay entitled, “The Names of our Plantations”, published in the Timehri: the journal of the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society of British Guiana (1911).

T

he estates that have been named at different times amount to about two thousand. I shall not attempt to enumerate them all for the majority give no trouble; they are simply old world placenames transferred, as is done in every new country.

There is more interest in those names which either anticipate or commemorate the struggles and tri-

Charles Waterton arrived in Georgetown in 1804 to manage the plantations [names shown in red on map] of his father (Walton Hall) and his uncle, Christopher Waterton (La Jalousie and Fellowship), who had returned to England. In The Argosy, published in 1883, Walton Hall is recorded as being part of Hampton Court, the most northerly plantation in the colony. Walton Hall Estate now has a rice mill licensed by the Guyana Rice Development Board (as at 2009) (overtown.org.uk)

umphs of the early settlers.

The name was not necessarily given at the time of the

grant, it follows therefore that some are retrospective and give us a peep into the

Entrance to Botanical Gardens, British Guiana

Chinese doctor, Georgetown, British Guiana. No date

life of our pioneers.

No doubt they thought a good name might bring good fortune; possibly they invoked the goddess in such names as Lucky Hit, Lucky Spot and Goed Fortuin.

Unfortunately however their hopes were often disappointed and the estates went to rack and ruin; today most of them are taken over by the forest.

Successes proved failures, Good Hopes ended in despair. Freedom (Vryheid) meant slavery a century ago; Paradise and the Garden of Eden were hardly abodes of happiness; even Arcadia has

lost its ideal position as a coffee plantation. El Dorado did not bring its owner gold, and notwithstanding its supposedstrength, Gibraltar became of little consequence.

In looking over a chart where the names are inserted we can see the course of settlement.

Until 1740, no one could get land unless he was a Dutch subject; it follows therefore that the names in the neighbourhood of Kyk-over-al, and on the upper Berbice and Canje, are Dutch.

After 1740, Essequibo was opened to all nations with a consequent influx of English from the West Indies, followed later by a fair number of French.

The upper Demerara was largely English (or Barbadian), the French occupied the West Bank and the sides of the Canals, with a few on the East and West Coasts.

Until the British conquest however, the coast from Mahaica to the Corentyne had been neglected; then came the boom in cotton and a succession of English planters, who, of course, gave British names.

Here we find Albion, Chiswick, Hammersmith, Epsom, Brighton, Clifton, Liverpool, etc. Dunrobin, Fyrish, Auchlyne, Kilmarnock and Tarlogie, as well as Carnarvon; proving that English, Scotch, and at least one Welshman were present.

The Canals and their neighbourhood have Middlesex, Westminster, and Vauxhall —Versailles and Bordeaux — Ostend and

Vriesland, indicating that the three nationalities were neighbours.

Although the United Kingdom is most conspicuous on the East Coast, we find Chateau Margot, La Bonne Intention, Mon Repos, etc., French, and Goedverwagting, Sparendaam, etc., Dutch.

The Barbados system of naming estates from the owners, without any addition, is hardly known here (Ogle is an example), but Little England is well to the fore as might be expected, especially in those named Halls.

We have Barbados Hall, Planter's Hall, Bounty Hall, Tranquillity Hall, Airy Hall, Quaker's Hall, Harmony Hall, Carlton Hall and Broom Hall. (Walton Hall is named after the Yorkshire family mansion of the Watertons.)

Personal names are represented by Waller's Delight, Keirfield, and Christianburg, the last from Christian Finet, the original owner, a Swede; Huis't Couverden is doubtful.

A conspicuous class is named after ladies of the family, e.g., Kitty, Sophia, Cornelia Ida, Eve Leary, Ann's Grove, Elizabeth Hall, and Susannah's Rust (rest).

A curious name is Amelie's Waard, probably meaning the house of Amelia's host, guardian, or landlord.

An affectionate son would perpetuate his love to a father or mother by Le Bon Pére and La Bonne Mere, a kind brother by Sisters or Two Sisters, and a father by De Kinderen (the children).

(TO BE CONTINUED)

8 Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 2, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Travel & Tourism

An ideal getaway

T

he Hot and Cold Lake is the northern section of the Itiribisi Lake, located in Essequibo. It was formed naturally between the sand hills of Mashabo to Onderneeming, and is sourced by many natural springs, and by rainfall. The lake drains into the oceanthrough Riverstown Creek.

The name ‘Hot and Cold’ came about when visitors swimming in the water experienced warm water, followed by cold patches all around the swimming area.

This is due to an underwater spring close by, spewing cold water into the lake, giving the effect of being hot and cold.

Panorama of the Lake

After the blocking of the drainage at its lowest points in 1980 by Lindsey Parkinson as the second phase to the Tapakuma Irrigation Project for rice in Essequibo, the Hot and Cold Lake grew deeper and took up a larger area where a popular picnic and campsite was developed alongside one of the sandy hills.

This beautiful and serene lakeside campsite is owned and operated by the Amins.

It is located about three miles inland of the Suddie village and is nearby to the newly developed Lil Red Village and Onderneeming Village.

To get there one must

follow a loam trail with overhanging trees. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the campsite from the Suddie car park. At the hilltop, above the campsite, is abreath-taking view. This ideal getaway offers pristine nature and serenity.

The lake is the perfect location for camping, cookouts, boating, swimming, bird watching, fishing and enjoyment of outdoor activities due to its spacious surrounding.

The Hot and Cold Lake is definitely a must-see for nature lovers when visiting Essequibo. (Information by R. R. Chan. Photos by Marco Basir) A place of relaxation and serenity

Residents of the nearby village fishing at the Lake

Boat ride on the Lake The campsite hill towers 80ft above the Hot and Cold Lake

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Times Healthy Living

K

eeping hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water.

About 1.8 million children under the age of 5 die each year from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia, the top two killers of young children around the world.

Handwashing with soap could protect about 1 out of every 3 young children who get sick with diarrhoea; and almost 1 out of 5 young children with respiratory infections like pneumonia.

Faeces from people or animals is an important source of germs like Salmonella, E. coli O157, and norovirus that cause diarrhoea, and it can spread some respiratory infections like adenovirus and hand-foot-mouth disease.

These kinds of germs can get onto hands after people use the toilet or change a diaper, but also in less obvious ways, like after handling raw meats that have invisible amounts of animal poop on them. A single gram of human feces—which is about the weight of a paper clip—can contain one trillion germs.

Germs can also get onto hands if people touch any object that has germs on it because someone coughed or sneezed on it or was touched by some other contaminated object. When these germs get onto hands and are not washed off, they can be passed from person to person and make people sick.

Handwashing with soap removes germs from hands.

This helps prevent infections because people frequently touch their eyes, nose, and mouth without even realizing it. Germs can get into the body through the eyes, nose and mouth and make us sick.

Germs from unwashed hands can get into foods and drinks while people prepare or consume them. Germs can multiply in some types of foods or drinks, under certain conditions, and make people sick.

Germs from unwashed hands can be transferred to other objects, like handrails, table tops, or toys, and then transferred to another person’s hands.

Removing germs through handwashing therefore helps prevent diarrhoea and respiratory infections and may even help prevent skin and eye infections.

Educating the community

Several scientific studies have found that teaching people about handwashing helps them and their communities stay healthy.

Handwashing education in the community re-

vise handwashing. Do not take or use strollers, bottles, pacifiers, spill-proof cups, or toys into animal areas.

Children younger than 5 years, people older than 65, and people with weakened immune systems should take special care around animal exhibits.

Handwashing helps against the rise of antibiotic resistance

A 2013 study by Michigan State University researchers found that only 5 per cent of people who used the bathroom washed their hands long enough to kill the germs that can cause infections. What’s more, 33 per cent didn’t use soap and 10 per cent didn’t wash their hands at all. Men were particularly bad at washing their hands correctly. The study, based on observations of 3,749 people in public restrooms, appears in the Journal of Environmental Health. The study also found that people are only washing their hands, on average, for about 6 seconds instead of the CDC-recommended 20 seconds

duces the number of people who get sick with diarrhoea by 31 per cent, according to RI Ejemot, JE Ehiri, MM Meremikwu, and JA Critchley, in “Hand washing for preventing diarrhoea” (Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008; 1:CD004265), and AE Aiello, RM Coulborn, V Perez, and EL Larson of “Effect of hand hygiene on infectious disease risk in the community setting: a meta-analysis”. (Am J Public Health. 2008; 98(8):137281).

Community education also reduces diarrheal illness in people with weakened immune systems by 58 per cent, states DB Huang and J. Zhou of “Effect of intensive handwashing in the prevention of diarrhoeal illness among patients with AIDS: a randomized controlled study”. (J Med Microbiol. 2007; 56(5):65963).

In addition, education reduces respiratory illnesses, like colds, in the general population by 16-21 per cent.

Handwashing education and access to soap in schools can help improve attendance, while good handwashing early in life may help improve child development in some settings.

Wash your hands for good hygiene and health

Always wash hands after taking off dirty clothes or shoes. After going to the bathroom. Before preparing foods, eating, or drinking.

After touching animals or their living area. After leaving the animal area.

Wet your hands with clean, running water. Apply soap. Rub hands together to make a lather and scrub well, including backs of hands, between fingers, and under fingernails. Rub hands at least 20 seconds.

According to the US

Centre for Disease Control (CDC), scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds; a good timer is to hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. Rinse hands. Dry hands using a clean paper towel or air dry them. Do not dry hands on clothing.

If clean, running water is not accessible, as is common in many parts of the world, use soap and available water. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcoholbased hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol to clean hands.

Although people around the world clean their hands with water, very few use soap to wash their hands.

Washing hands with soap removes germs much more effectively.

Prevent illness when visiting animal exhibits like petting zoos

Exhibits such as petting zoos and fairs allow children to experience coming face-to-face with animals.

Unfortunately, many people become sick every year because of a visit to an animal exhibit.

It's important to remember that animals sometimes carry germs that are harmful to people. If you forget to wash your hands after petting an animal, or bring food or drinks into an area where animals are exhibited, you increase your chance of getting sick.

Wash your hands often if you visit an animal exhibit.

Find out where handwashing stations are located, and always wash your hands right after petting animals or touching anything where the animal is housed.

Wash your hands when you leave animal areas, even if you did not touch the animals. Running water and soap are best. Be sure

to walk with and use a hand sanitizer in case there is no running water and soap available. Wash your hands with soap and water as soon as a sink is available.

Eat and drink safely.

Keep food and drinks out of animal areas, like their habitats and feeding areas. Food should not be prepared, served, or eaten in areas where animals live and feed (with the exception of service animals).

Don't share your food with animals, to avoid pick-

ing up any germs from the animals and to make sure animals eat the right foods.

Animals should eat the food made for them.

Keep children safe around animals. Children younger than 5 years always need adult supervision in animal areas. Never allow children to put their thumbs, fingers, or objects (for example: pacifiers) in their mouth when they're around animals or in an animal area.

Encourage and super-

Preventing sickness reduces the amount of antibiotics people use and the likelihood that antibiotic resistance will develop. Handwashing can prevent about 30 per cent of diarrhoea-related sicknesses and about 20 per cent of respiratory infections (e.g., colds).

Antibiotics often are prescribed unnecessarily for these health issues, notes the CDC, from a study by T. Rabie and V. Curtis: “Handwashing and risk of respiratory infections: a quantitative systematic review”. (Trop Med Int Health. 2006; 11(3):258-67).

Reducing the number of these infections by washing hands frequently helps prevent the overuse of antibiotics—the single most important factor leading to antibiotic resistance around the world.

Handwashing can also prevent people from getting sick with germs that are already resistant to antibiotics and that can be difficult to treat.

10 Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Fashion

D

esigner Sonia Noel’s newest collection, The Sonia Noel Man, offers cool, casual, trendy tops/ shirts in “contemporary cuts” for the stylish man.

These fashionable bespoke pieces are made from durable fabric,and are ideal

for any guy who wants to “stand out from the crowd”.

This collection will be showcased at the Guyana Fashion Week slated for November 6-13 at Pegasus Hotel.

For more information, call 226-3099 or visit Guyana Fashion Week on Facebook.

guyanatimesgy.com

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

Z

ain Javadd “Zayn” Malik, born January 12, 1993, is an English singer and songwriter. His father, Yaser Malik, is a British Pakistani, and his mother, Tricia Brannan Malik, is English, and of part Irish descent.In 2010, Malik auditioned as a solo artist for the British reality television music competition “The X Factor”. After being eliminated as a solo performer, Malik was brought back into the competition, along with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, and Louis Tomlinson, to form the boy band One Direction. In March 2015, Malik's representative announced the singer's departure from the band. Malik signed a solo recording contract with RCA Records in 2015, with his debut studio album Mind of Mine released in March 2016.

The album and its lead single, "Pillowtalk", reached number one in a number of countries with Malik becoming the first British male artist to debut at number one in both the UK and US with his debut single and debut album. Malik is an official ambassador of the British Asian Trust charity group, contributing to improving the lives of disadvantaged people living in South Asia.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Hollywood

Brad Pitt voluntarily tested for drug and alcohol

B

rad Pitt is determined to prove his innocence. According to TMZ, the actor submitted a urine sample to DCFS (Department of Children and Family Service) for drug and alcohol testing after he was accused of verbally and physically abusing his adopted son Maddox during a drunken rage on a private plane.

The 52-year-old was served with divorce papers by his wife of two years Angelina Jolie. The

"Maleficent" actress said it was "for the health of the family" and asked judge to grant her physical custody of their children and him visitation rights only.

Jolie and her kids reportedly have since moved out of the Los Feliz house she shared with her estranged husband. They now live in a rented house in Malibu.

Jolie and Pitt have three adopted children including Maddox and three biological children. (AceShowbiz)

Disney confirms new ‘Lion King’ movie D

isney recently announced the remake of one of its biggest classics, “The Lion King”.

The beloved movie is coming back to cinemas as a live action film. The Company announced earlier this week that the 1994's classic was one of their biggest animated films - and one of the most lucrative as well, raising nearly US$969 million since its release.

“The Lion King” made its stage debut in 1997 and, regardless if you're a Disney fan or not, it is an absolutely must-watch. The musical is considered one of Broadway's most beautiful and successful productions, winning six Tony Awards and taking more than US$6 billion in ticket sales.

Disney has also confirmed that the unforget-

table songs of the animation: Sir Elton John's and Sir Tim Rice's “Can You

Feel the Love Tonight”, “Hakuna Matata” and “Circle of Life”, will be

featured in the spin-off.

(Glamour)

Justin Bieber tells fans they 'suck'

J

ustin Bieber gave some fans an unwanted present when he was taking the stage in Finland recently. The Canadian singer was seen accidentally blowing snots on some concertgoers in the front row as he sneezed in the middle of his show.

As seen in a video taken and shared online by another fan in the crowd, the incident happened when Bieber was performing "What Do

You Mean?" He continued singing the track after

sneezing.

Bieber has been trav-

eling Europe for his ongoing "Purpose World Tour".

Before visiting Finland, he made a stop in Norway over the weekend and infuriated some fans there after he told them they "suck."

In a video emerging via Twitter, the Biebs was seen walking alongside his entourage in front of some fans who excitedly greeted him.

He chose to keep walking and for an unknown reason told them, "You guys suck."

Shortly after kicking off his tour, he canceled all meet and greets and said he no longer wanted to take pictures with fans. Last month, he angered them again when he decided to delete his Instagram account after some people made mean comments about his then-girlfriend Sofia Richie.

(AceShowbiz)

Donald Trump once bodyshamed Kim Kardashian

D

onald Trump sure has a long history of body-shaming women. Hot on the heels of his comments on former Miss Universe Alicia Machado, whom he also once called "Miss Piggy," an old video has just resurfaced showing him sharing his outrageous opinion on Kim Kardashian's look.

The video was from an interview Trump did back in 2013, when Kardashian was pregnant with her first child. Speaking on HLN's "Showbiz Tonight", the 70-year-old businessman was asked about what he thought about the reality TV star's decision to create a baby shower gift registry for herself despite her wealth.

"She's a nice person. I've known her over the years.

She's really a nice person," Trump said and added that Kardashian had "gotten a little bit large" during her pregnancy. He continued, "I would say this, I don't think you should dress like you weigh 120 pound."

Trump has been infuriating people with his sexist and misogynist remarks

about a bunch of women, including Alicia Machado who won the 1996 Miss Universe. The former beauty queen, who came from Venezuela and is now a U.S. citizen, recently made headlines after Hillary Clinton brought her up during last Monday’s presidential debate. (AceShowbiz)

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Star Times Bollywood

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argis Fakhri is an American model and actress, who mainly appears in Hindi films.

Fakhri began her career as a model and appeared as a contestant in the CW series “America's Next Top Model”. She made her Bollywood debut in the 2011 romantic drama “Rockstar”, for which she received a Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut nomination. She received praise for starring as a war correspondent in the political thriller “Madras Café” (2013).

She later appeared in “Main Tera Hero” (2014); “Spy”, a 2015 Hollywood comedy; and “Housefull 3” (2016). Recently, the actress completed work on the romantic drama “Banjo” opposite Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh, and is working on her second Hollywood production, “5 Weddings”.

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Bollywood

John Abraham Sonam Kapoor ‘not a big believer denies reports in cosmetic treatments’ of slapping fan F ilm celebrities -- in India and more so internationally -- are perpetually dogged by rumours of going under the knife for corrective surgeries for beautification. But Sonam Kapoor, whose blog post about fighting “strict rules” of beauty since adolescence has gone viral on social media, says she doesn’t believe in resorting to artificial procedures to alter looks.

“I am not a big believer in cosmetic treatments.

Artificial cosmetic or corrective treatments are damag-

A

ctor John Abraham has refuted reports that he slapped a fan during a film promotion event. There were reports that John allegedly slapped a fan after the latter tried to grab his arm and pulled him for a selfie.

Also, apparently a photographer from the media had set his camera up for a picture, but before he could click, John allegedly began threatening him.

According to sources close to the “Madras Café” actor, in an attempt to grab John’s attention, a fan scratched him and grabbed his T-shirt. John turned

around to grab hold of the fan and pulled him up for his irresponsible behaviour, following which he proceeded to his car.

However, in a statement issued today on behalf of the actor, his spokesperson said, “The episode has been blown out of proportion.

John would never hurt a fan intentionally. The fan even met John at his residence to apologise to him for his irresponsible behaviour.”

The alleged incident happened yesterday after the trailer launch of John’s upcoming film “Force 2”.

(PTI)

ing... Especially if you see

all the studies,” Sonam, a

Colgate Visible White brand ambassador, told IANS in an interview.

However, she was quick to add: “I don’t judge anybody who does that. It’s each to his own and it’s all a personal choice. I would rather use products that are safe and the ones that I have control over, not some doctor doing it for me.”

As a brand ambassador, Sonam says she prefers to endorse only those things that she believe in or “I feel the ones that reflect my aesthetics and ideals in anyway”. (IANS)

Salman Khan: ‘Pakistani actors are artists, not terrorists’

A

ctor Salman Khan is brutally honest when it comes to sharing his views on any topic. So when he was in Delhi recently, he was more than prepared to take questions on the recent Uri attacks in Kashmir, subsequent surgical attacks from India and the debate on banning Pakistani artists in Bollywood films.

Reacting on the recent surgical strike on Pakistan, Khan says, “Ideal situation would have been love and peace, but now it has happened, so obvi-

ously it was a reaction to some people’s action. In this day and age, I feel handling things with love and peace would have been better, especially for common people. But after Uri attacks, it seems (like) proper action because they were terrorists.”

At a time when the entire nation is debating on whether Pakistani artists should be sent back to their country, Khan shares a different opinion. “They are artists. We have killed the terrorists. Artists are not terrorists. These are two different subjects. They come to our country after acquiring visa, and it’s our government who allows them with the work permit in our country.”

On IMPAA’s (Indian

Motion Pictures’ Artists Association) resolution to ban all Pakistani actors and technicians till the situation is back to normal, Khan retorts, “Were any of you there when this resolution was passed?

Anyway, I think I have said what I wanted to. And it’s going to be played over and over again.”

While actor Akshay Kumar came out in open and offered monetary support to the families of Indian martyrs who lost their lives in Uri attacks, Salman Khan’s NGO Being Human too is ready to extend help. “Why not! Of course we will contribute and do whatever best we can.” (Hindustan Times)

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine

15

Times Trends

Trending NOW

Big earrings

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one are the days of subtle studs and inconspicuous cuffs. Now, it’s all about big, chandelier-style earrings.

From the “ginormous” leaf design earrings, to the decadent, shoulderskimming designs – and even the faux-jewelled dangly earrings – it

Aishwarya Rai dons a pair of colourful statement earrings

Star of the week

seems the new trend is all about making a statement with your earwear.

In honour of this, we take a look at how our favourite Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities are wearing the big earrings trend.

Beyonce's emerald and diamond earrings look stunning

R Deepika Padukone looks elegant in her fashionable ear-wear

Rihanna's diamond earrings are decadent

Sonam Kapoor is popular for her statement earrings

Victoria's Secret model Miranda Kerr shows off an interesting pair of chandelier-style earrings

oland Trotman is a 21-year-old model eyeing the international runway. Trotman attended Head Start Nursery School; North Georgetown Primary and Kingston Secondary, where he graduated after CSEC. Presently, Trotman is an employee at the Guyana Revenue Authority assigned to the administrative service unit. Relatively new to modelling, Trotman said he is “so far enjoying the experience” as it allows him to express his “bold fashion sense”. He added “besides the exposure, modelling helps young people to develop selfconfidence”. Trotman is signed to KAST Talent Management and did his first modelling gig at the recently held Style Mission fashion event earlier this month. To date he has modelled for notable designers Sonia Noel and Neilson Nurse. Although Trotman is passionate about his venture into modelling, his main focus is on developing academically. The aspiring public relations officer aims to pursue a career in public relations and communications studies. Concerning his modelling career, he would like to collaborate with the “big names” of the fashion industry, regionally and internationally. Trotman’s advises youths to “stay in school and get an education. Stay away from negative and violent activities. For those who would have completed school and feel as if you are never going to get a job, just hang in there; you are going to get that call. With our society being flawed with so many limitations, the least you can do is aspire to be all that you can be”. (Photo by Shamer Hescott)

16 Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 2, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Art

"Forest Lotus" by George Simon. Acrylic on canvas

“H

omage to Denis Williams”, an exhibition of artworks by indigenous artists, currently ongoing at Castellani House, is the most appropriate title to celebrate Indigenous Heritage Month (September) for several reasons.

Dr. Denis Williams (1923 - 1998) was a pioneer archaeologist and anthropologist who in 1974, nearly 50 years ago, founded the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, which was the precursor for several prominent cultural institutions in Guyana, such as the E.R. Burrowes School of Art (1975), the Museum of African Heritage (1985), and the National Gallery of Art, Castellani House (1993). Dr. Williams himself was a distinguished artist and writer who studied, lived and worked in London in the late 1940s to late 1950s. From 1957 to 1967 he was teaching Art and Art History at several universities in Africa, during which time he penned and published numerous articles on the classical art of West Africa and a book “Icon and Image: A Study of Sacred and Secular Forms

of African Classical Art” (1974, New York University Press).

While teaching in Africa, in Sudan, Williams discovered archaeology, but it was not until his return to Guyana, circa 1968, to live and work in the Mazaruni District, that his interest was reawakened upon discovering artefacts of the indigenous peoples in the area.

In 1973, by letter, he engaged the Smithsonian Institution and stated his interest and optimism in investigating and chronicling, in a structured way, the "antiquities" and the "arts" of the indigenous peoples to put things into historical perspective. In 1974 he was appointed the Director of the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, which he founded in the same year. This new appointment fuelled his drive to commence intense archaeological activities and excavations in the various regions of Guyana, which resulted in countless findings, revelations and documentation for the next 24 years of his life, until his death in 1998.

This year's exhibition, in celebration of Amerindian

Untitled by Guy Marco. Acrylic on canvas

Heritage Month, and exhibitors led by the artist and archaeologist George Simon, an understudy of Dr. Denis Williams, continues a trend where the sacred and secular art forms of the indigenous peoples, bound in a wide variety of media, are summoned for expression and interpretation. The artists remained true and steadfast to their creations, and for this reason the exhibition continues to flourish, as in past years, with numerous creations where motif, form and subject matter competes and jostles for dominance, but collectively and subtly creates its own aesthetics and harmony.

In these times of uncertainty, where the threats of de-culturation are great, these exhibitions are a constant reminder of who we are and the vision that we have. Should our culture and cultural institutions be de-emphasized by whatever powers may be then, we as a people may be left rootless.

“Homage to Denis Williams” art exhibition continues until October 15, 2016 at Castellani House, located on Vlissengen Road, Georgetown.

Admission is free. For more information, call 225-0579. (Text

by Ohene Koama, Curator: Castellani House) (Cover photo: 'Untitled #3' by Nigel Butler. Acrylic on canvas)

"The Chief's Mask" by Roaland Taylor. Paurine

"Broken" by Devina Deputron. Acrylic on canvas

"Shaman" by Victor Captain. Acrylic on canvas

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 17

Times Tech

Apple in negotiations with Sharp for OLED supply M

any reports have said that the next-generation iPhones, dubbed ‘iPhone 8’, will feature OLED displays for the first time. These reports have been boosted by Bloomberg reporting Friday that Apple is negotiating with Sharp to produce OLED panels for its phones.

Supply constraints have seen Apple hold back on

Tech news

A

adopting OLED as the yields are far lower than LCD. However, it appears that 2017 is the year for OLED to be part of the iPhone.

The report says that Sharp will clinch the deal with Apple if it can promise enough ‘output capacity’. Earlier Friday, Sharp announced a more than US$500-million-dollar investment into OLED display

Apple to open US$45M research hub in China

pple is opening a US $45 million (300 million yuan) research and development centre in Beijing, its first ever in China, as the U.S. technology giant looks to reverse declining sales and regulatory hurdles in the country.

The announcement was made on social

Tech BYTE

H

manufacturing but the benefits of this will not be seen until late 2018.

In general, Apple likes to have multiplier companies supplying parts for its products as it reduces risk of yield bottlenecks and allows them to negotiate better prices, as one company is not in control of the entire supply chain for a particular component.

media by the Zhongguancun Science Park Administrative Committee, the landlords that run the site where Apple is opening its facility. It is located in Beijing's version of Silicon Valley, the Zhongguancun Science Park.

Apple saw revenues in Greater China fall 33 percent yearon-year in its fiscal third quarter, and services such as the iBooks Store s h u t down earlier this year.

Tech news

Artificial intelligence will boost US productivity says report

HP issues apology for blocking third-party ink cartridges

P has issued an apology for the software update that blocked third-party ink cartridges from being used with the company's printers.

To fix the issue, HP will soon release an optional update that will remove the restriction on the usage of third-party ink

cartridges, which are usually less expensive than the official cartridges that HP offers to customers.

In a blog post, HP chief operating officer Jon Flaxman clarified that the recent firmware update that caused the problem affected the procedure of authenticating ink cartridges in several HP printers.

The update was done to prevent counterfeit ink cartridges that do not come with

an original security chip from compromising the user's printing experience, introducing potential security risks and infringing upon HP's intellectual property.

After the update was released however, it was met with severe backlash from HP printer owners, with calls to reverse the move backed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

HP customers expressed their anger and frustrations over their third-party ink cartridges suddenly not working on social media and online forums.

The EFF claimed that consumers should be able to purchase an HP printer without worrying that artificial limitations will be eventually placed on how the printer would be used.

EFF is also looking for a promise from HP to never again limit the features of its products through a future update.

Meanwhile, in related news, HP has reached a deal to acquire the printer business of Samsung for no less than US$1.05 billion.

A

new study reports that artificial intelligence could dramatically boost economic growth and productivity.

The Accenture report looked at 12 countries and found that AI — or technology that senses the environment, comprehends what's happening and takes action — could increase productivity by up to 40 percent in 2035.

The report also forecasts economic growth in the U.S. could increase from 2.6 percent to 4.6 percent over the same period with the adoption of AI technologies.

Among the countries that stand to make the largest gains in productivity from AI in 2035 are Sweden, Finland, the U.S. and Japan.

"The impact this has is that it automates a lot of the low-level tasks and gets them done with higher satisfaction," says Accenture's chief technology officer, Paul Daugherty. "It frees up employees to do

things they get more satisfaction out of, which is solving more complex problems, and dealing with the more complex issues that arise in business."

But critics of AI say automated technology eliminates jobs. A recent Forrester report found that within five years, AIpowered technologies will cut 6 percent of jobs in the U.S. While Daugherty acknowledges "shortterm displacement," he believes the longterm economic benefits outweigh the near-term consequences, and the key to minimizing the impact to jobs is to educate workers on how to use AI so they can focus on high-value skills.

The report was released the same day a group of tech giants — including Amazon, Facebook, Google, IBM and Microsoft — announced a partnership on AI to support best practices and advance public understanding about artificial intelligence.

18 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Times Home & Cooking

Recipe of the Week

Choosing the right kitchen countertop

W

hen you are renovating your kitchen countertops or building from scratch, it may be difficult and even confusing to decide what you want to fit your budget and lifestyle with all the countertop choices for the kitchen. Additionally, it is important to consider the pros and cons of any surface you choose – whether it is laminate, concrete, solid surface, tile, stainless steel, wood or recycled glass…

Granite is a favourite among homeowners. It is more durable than marble and won't scratch. It is also resistant to stains, heat and water if sealed, and is lowmaintenance.

You can look forward to a high resale value. They come in lots of colour options but can be expensive, and require resealing about once annually

Marble is one of the most expensive countertop surfaces.

While it comes in a variety of colours and patterns, and its smooth surface won't chip or dent and is heatresistant, it can be scratched or etched by acids (citrus, coffee, alcohol, some cleaning products) even if you seal it.

However, if you remain vigilant and seal your counters a few times a year, it might work for you

Crab salad stuffed avocados

Ingredients For crab salad

1 lb of cooked crab meat ½ red onion, finely chopped ½ red bell pepper, finely diced ½ green bell pepper, finely diced ½ cucumber, finely diced 4 radishes, finely diced Juice of 2 limes

Method Crab salad Mix cooked crab meat with diced onions, diced bell peppers, diced cucumbers, diced radish, lime juice, olive oil, chopped shallot, and salt/pepper.

Stuffed avocados Cut avocados in half, remove the seeds and peel the avocados. Sprinkle each avocado half with a little lime (or lemon) juice to prevent

2 tablespoons of olive oil 2 tablespoons of finely chopped shallot Salt and pepper to taste For stuffed avocados 4-5 ripe but firm avocados ½ lime To garnish Lettuce or salad greens, chopped shallot or chives, radishes

the avocados from browning too quickly.

Fill the centre of the avocados halves with the crab salad. Serve the crab stuffed avocados over lettuce leaves and garnished with chopped shallot and radishes.

Crab salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to assemble and serve the crab stuffed avocados.

Serves 8-10 people as an appetizer or 4-5 people as an entree salad Serving Size: 1-2 stuffed avocados

M

Some quartz stone countertops are quarried slabs of the natural stone, but the new engineered material is a super-hard, low-maintenance, natural stone-look countertop that offers and almost limitless array of colours. Quartz isn't porous like other stone surfaces, and unlike other types of stone countertops, it resists staining or corrosion from cooking oils, liquids and most household cleaning products — so there's no need for periodic resealing of the surface. Its only disadvantage however is that it can be damaged by excessive heat

ost potato salads are served cold. But when foods come straight out of the fridge, their flavours are muted. That means you should cook the potatoes in well-salted water and make sure that your dressing is boldly flavoured, or your dish will be bland.

Next time you set up a buffet or dinner party, keep in mind that nothing should sit out for more than two hours. Serve smaller bowls of food and rotate them from the refrigerator. When you bring out new food to replenish your dishes, beware of putting fresh cold food on top of the old, possibly bacteria laden food.

A

dd some extra power to your laundry by adding one cup of lemon juice during the wash cycle. It has a natural bleaching action that will help wipe out those stains from your cotton clothing.

Forget about the moth balls. Keep your closets free from moths by using ripe lemons and sticking cloves all over the skin.

The clove covered lemons will slowly dry which will leave a wonderful smell though your closets and rooms.

To prevent plaster chipping when driving in a nail, heat the nail first. It will go in smoothly and a chunk of plaster won't fall out.

Buffing a marble tabletop with car polish leaves a thin, invisible film that helps reduce the risk of stains.

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine19

Family Times

PARENTING

Diet, exercise and your child

G JOKES Silly Signs

Spotted in a toilet of a London office: Toilet out of order. Please use floor below In a Laundromat: Automatic washing machines please remove all your clothes when the light goes out In a London department store: Bargain basement upstairs In an office: Would the person who took the step ladder yesterday please bring it back or further steps will be taken In an office: Aftertea break, staff should empty the teapot and stand upside down on the draining board Outside a second-hand shop: We exchange anything - bicycles, washing machines, etc. why not bring your wife along and get a wonderful bargain?

Spotted in a safari park: Elephants please stay in your car Notice in a farmer's field: The farmer allows walkers to cross the field for free, but the bull charges Message on a leaflet: If you cannot read, this leaflet will tell you how to get lessons On a repair shop door: We can repair anything.

(Pleaseknock hard on the door - the bell doesn't work)

Purpose of the dog

A Sunday School helper was delivering a station wagon full of kids home one day when a fire truck zoomed past.

Sitting in the front seat of the fire truck was a Dalmatian dog. The children began discussing the dog's duties.

"They use him to keep crowds back," said one youngster.

"No," said another, "he's just for good luck."

A third child brought the argument to a close. "They use the dogs," she said firmly, "to find the fire hydrant."

The hamster and the frog

A mangy looking guy walks into a very classy restaurant and orders a steak.

The waitress says: "I'm sorry, but I don't think you can pay for your meal."

The guy admits, "You're right. I don't have any money, but if I show you something you haven't seen before, will you give me my supper?"

The waitress, both curious and compassionate, says, "Only if what you show me isn't risqué."

"Deal!" says the guy and reaches into his coat pocket and pulls out a hamster.

He puts the hamster on the ground and it runs across the room, directly to a piano. The hamster then proceeds to climb up the piano, and starts playing Gershwin songs.

The waitress says, "You're right. I've never seen anything like that before. That hamster is truly good on the piano."

The guy sits back and enjoys a fine steak supper with all the trimmings.

Shortly thereafter, he asks the waitress, "Can I have a piece of that fine blueberry pie I see on the dessert cart over there?"

"Only if you got another miracle up your sleeve", says the waitress.

The guy reaches into his coat again and pulls out a frog. He puts the frog on the table, and the frog starts to sing up a storm!

A stranger from a nearby table runs over to the guy and offers him $300 for the frog. The guy says "It's a deal." He takes the three hundred and gives the stranger the frog. The stranger runs out of the restaurant with dollar signs in his eyes and a big smile on his face.

The waitress says to the guy "Are you some kind of nut? You sold a singing frog for $300? It must have been worth millions!"

"No", says the guy. "The hamster is also a ventriloquist."

ood nutrition and plenty of exercise are the building blocks for strong growth, healthy development and lifelong wellbeing for children.

These days, too many children are not receiving the proper nutrition or enough exercise:They are not eating enough. They are not eating enough healthy food. They are not getting enough exercise. Children need to get 60 minutes of exercise on a daily basis.

Good nutrition is essential to healthy brain development in children which is, of course, critical to learning.

Children who exercise regularly and eat healthily are likely to perform better academically; feel better about themselves, their

bodies and their abilities; cope with stress, and regulate their emotions better; avoid feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

Establishing healthy eating and exercise habits early in life can lead to long

term healthy behaviour in adulthood.

Children need a wide variety of nutrients (e.g., protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, minerals and vitamins) to assist in their daily growth and development and to protect

them from childhood illnesses.

Daily exercise also helps children to build stronger muscles and bones and limit excess body fat.

Healthy eating also cuts down on risk for cavities, eating disorders and unhealthy weight control behaviours (i.e., fasting, skipping meals, eating very little food, vomiting, using diet pills, laxatives or diuretics), malnutrition and iron deficiency.

Healthy eating and consistent physical activity help to prevent chronic illnesses that appear in adulthood associated with obesity, e.g., heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and several forms of cancer. (TO BE CONTINUED)

STORY TIME

The Tale of Baucis and Philemon Z eus, the king of Mount Olympus, came down to visit the country folk disguised as a beggar. People turned him away until he came to the house of a poor elderly couple, Baucis and Philemon. Baucis and Philemon shared their simple meal of bread and wine with their guest.

Oddly enough, the wine jug never emptied and there was more bread after each slice was cut. It was then that Baucis and Philemon realized that this was no ordinary visitor, but a god from Mount Olympus.

They bowed low and apologized for the simple food they had to offer. Zeus replied, "When you have shared your best, there is never a need to apologize."

In return for their generosity, Zeus granted them their only wish: to remain

And then he drank a dew From a convenient grass, And then hopped sidewise to the wall To let a beetle pass.

Like one in danger; cautious, I offered him a crumb, And he unrolled his feathers And rowed him softer home Than oars divide the ocean, Too silver for a seam, Or butterflies, off banks of noon, Leap, plashless, as they swim.

Emily Dickinson together always.

And so when Baucis and Philemon died, an oak and a linden tree grew

with their trunks entwined around each other, on the spot where the couple was buried. A tale from Greece

Food phrase origins

A

A bird came down the walk: He did not know I saw; He bit an Angleworm in halves And ate the fellow, raw.

He glanced with rapid eyes That hurried all abroad,-They looked like frightened beads, I thought; He stirred his velvet head

By Grammar G

n example of a food phrase (idiom) is a group of words about food or eating, which, in common usage, has a different meaning than the literal meaning of the individual words.

Some are so common you know them when you hear them: the apple of [my] eye; as nutty as a fruitcake, and bite off more than you can chew are well known phrases.

Many have their origin

A Bird Came Down the Walk

from some long ago activity or event.

Take the phrase to spill the beans, which means to tell a secret.

It began in ancient Greece where the system for voting new members into a private club meant secretly placing coloured beans into jars. Prospective members never knew who voted for or against them – until the beans were thrown out – or

spilled…

To be cool as a cucumber, which means to be suave, has to do with the actual cucumber itself. In 1970 it was scientifically proven that even when the place is warm, the inside of a cu-

cumber is actually 20 degrees cooler than their outside.

Something that was commonly believed since the early 18th century.

To be the big cheese means to be the best of the best.

Since the early 19th century, cheese was used as a noun to describe something wealthy or top-rate. "Cheese",in fact, originated from the Persian Anglophile phrase, “the chiz,” meaning a cool thing.

A piece of cake or cake walk, which means easy or requiring little effort, is said to have originated during US African slavery when cakes were given out as prizes during competitions in which slaves would circle around a cake. The one who walked with the most “grace” won the prize. Since walking in a circle was relatively easy, the term piece of cake or cake walk was coined.

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Times Sunday Puzzle

In each group below, the three words end in the same three letters.

Example: plo___, tho ___, to___.

Answer: plough, though, tough. Now, figure out the missing letters in these groups: 1. eng___, f___, mar___ 2. c___, car___, s___ 3. ag___, g___, h___ see ANSWERS on page 23

see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

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Sunday Times Magazine 21

Times Kids

Creature Corner

GEOZONE

The Coastal Plain

Phoneutria fera

T

he Brazilian wandering spider (Phoneutria) is one of the most aggressive and venomous spiders in the world. The Guinness Book of World Records once named it the most venomous in the world.

It was first discovered in Brazil hence its name. However, this genus is known to exist elsewhere in South and Central America. It can grow to have a leg span of up to 4 – 5 inches, and is a large hairy spindly-looking spider with eight eyes, two of which are large.

The Brazilian Wandering spider is so-called because it wanders the jungle floor, rather than residing in a lair or maintaining a web. It will hunt and eat crickets, other large insects, small lizards and mice.

It is also called the ‘banana spider’ as it is occasionally found within banana bunches. The Phoneutria fera and Phoneutria nigriventer (two species of wandering spider) are the two most considered the most deadly of the Phoneutria spiders. They are also known to bite more people than any other spider.

Colouring Fun

oastal plains are flat, lowlying lands next to the ocean. Coastal plains are separated from the rest of the interior by nearby landforms, such as hills or mountains.

In western South America, a large coastal plain lies between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

Some coastal plains start as a continental shelf – a flat piece

of land located below sea level.

When the ocean level falls, the land is exposed, creating a coastal plain.

A coastal plain can also develop when river currents carry rock, soil and other sedimentary material into the ocean. Layers of this deposited sediment build up over time, creating a flat or gently sloping landscape.

Word Search

Land of many waters

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 please see solution on page 23

C

Nearly 85 per cent of Guyana’s population is located on the coastal plains (“Guyana: From State Control to Free Markets” by John Gafar. 2003)

digits 1 through 9.

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Sunday Times Magazine 23

Times World

'Th' sound to vanish from English language by 2066 because of multiculturalism, say linguists

US govt to pay native Americans close to half billion dollars

How language will change by 2066: TH’ stopping – the dental consonants ‘th’ will be replaced by ‘d’ meaning ‘this’ or ‘that’ will become ‘dis’ and ‘dat’; ‘TH’ fronting – Words which begin with a ‘th’ sound will be lost so ‘thin’ will become ‘fin’ and ‘think’ will change to ‘fink’; Sound softening – hardly anyone says ‘syoot’ for ‘suit’ anymore and the trend will continue with the sharp corners knocked off words; Yod dropping - words like ‘cute’ or ‘beauty’ will become ‘coot’ and ‘booty’; Consonant smushing – ‘W’ and ‘r’ are already similar for many southern English speakers but the letters could completely collapse into one sound. Words with ‘ch’ and ‘j’ could also become indistinguishable; Glottal stop – the slight linguistic trip which turns ‘butter’ into ‘bu’er’ in dialects like Cockney and Geordie will become more prevalent across the country; Emojis – happy face, sad face, or wink will become part of language and facial expressions. (Telegraph UK)

B

y 2066, linguists are predicting that the "th" sound will vanish completely in the capital because there are so many foreigners who struggle to pronounce interdental consonants - the term for a sound created by pushing the tongue against the upper teeth.

Already Estuary English – a hybrid of Cockney and received pronunciation (RP) which is prevalent in the

South East – is being replaced by Multicultural London English (MLE) which is heavily influenced

by Caribbean, West African and Asian Communities.

But within the next few decades, immigration will have fundamentally altered the language, according to experts at the University of York.

The "th" sound – also called the voiced dental nonsibliant fricative – is like-

Brain Teaser Answer 1. engine, fine, marine 2. cafe, carafe, safe

3. agave, gave, have

SUDOKU

KID SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

ly to change to be replaced an "f", "d", or "v" meaning "mother" will be pronounced "muvver" and "thick" will be voiced as "fick".

However, the ‘h’ that fell silent in Cockney dialect is set to return allowing ‘ere’ to become ‘here’ once more.

Dr Dominic Watt, a sociolinguistics expert from the University of York, said: “Given the status of London as the linguistically most influential city in the English-speaking world, we can expect to see significant changes between now and the middle of the century.

“The major changes in the way we speak over the next 50 years will involve a simplification of the sound structure of words, they’ll become shorter probably.

“Languages also change when they come into contact with one another. English has borrowed thousands of words from other languages: mainly French, Latin and Greek, but there are ‘loan words’ from dozens of other languages in the mix.”

Technology will also change the way people speak, and the experts predict that as artificial intelligence emerges the, computers could begin to invent new words.

Dr Watt added: “It is conceivable that some of the words that will come into English in the next 50 years will have been invented by computers because as computers become more intelligent it may be they start creating words of their own and feeding the, back to us.

“Already we’re seeing text words phrases coming into respected dictionaries.

As time goes on we’re going to see more and more of that kind of thing.

“The traditional dialects will die out and others will morph into the speech of large urban centres.”

T

American President Barack Obama is draped with a ceremonial blanket given to him at the 2016 White House Tribal Nations Conference held Monday at the Mellon Auditorium in Washington by Mohegan Chief Lynn Malerba, left, and Brian Cladoosby, right, President of the National Congress of American Indians

he US Department of the Interior and the United States Attorney General announced this week that the federal government will pay 17 native American tribes US$492 million, settling claims that the government mismanaged tribal resources for years.

This week’s settlement is the latest in a series of similar agreements with more than 100 tribes in total, as the federal government attempts to chart a new course in tribal relations and dispute resolution.

Although native American tribes have called attention to these issues for decades, this week’s resolution is representative of the federal government’s changing approach towards federal disputes with tribal govern-

ments, some experts say.

The problem of government mismanagement of native American lands, money, and resources stems back to the earliest interactions between native Americans and European empires, Kathleen DuVal, a professor at the University of North Carolina who specializes in the early cross-cultural history of North America, tells The Christian Science Monitor.

As of today, the federal government has settled with more than 100 tribal groups for a total sum of more than $3.3 billion dollars, with the majority of the previously-outstanding claims settled under the Obama administration.

UN to launch space mission

T

he United Nations has announced that a mission will be launched in 2021 that will provide developing countries with the opportunity to fly payloads into lowEarth orbit for the first time. The program is the result of a partnership between the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC).

SNC's Dream Chaser spacecraft is a reusable ship, much like the now retired US space shuttle- but a quarter of the size, that specializes in commercial cargo delivery into orbit around the Earth.

The reusable nature of the Dream Chaser makes it the ideal candidate for conducting low-cost missions for UN member states

SNC's Dream Chaser spacecraft

that don't have the dedicated platform needed to do so.

UNOOSA was established in 1958 as a small expert committee to advise the larger Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, which was largely concerned with Cold War-era fears of space-based espionage and weaponry between the US and Soviet Union. In the nearly 60 years since UNOOSA was established, the UN has never actually conducted a space-based mission itself.

While the goal is to provide a platform for developing countries to launch an experiment into space, any UN Member State is allowed to submit proposals for the mission.

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Fun Times

Archie

ARIES Work on something that (March 21- you enjoy doing alone. A creApril 19) ative project will ease your stress. Avoid making an abrupt decision regarding a partnership or joint venture.

Set the stage for a healthy encounter with someone TAURUS you adore.

Whether spend(April 20ing time with your children, May 20) spouse or loved ones, you can improve your connection with affection and sincere communication.

Use your imagination and GEMINI explore options and unique (May 21ways to improve your situaJune 20) tion. Striving for greater stability in your personal life is a good place to begin.

If you make plans to spend time with a loved one, it will (June 21- strengthen your bond. Try July 22) something different or visit a destination you've never been to before. A little pampering will do you good.

CANCER

Host a party or make LEO changes at home that will add (July 23to your pleasure or comfort.

Aug. 22) Taking in some entertainment without busting your budget will ease your stress.

Don't try to buy love.

Dilbert

An emotional situation enVIRGO tailing someone or something (Aug. 23from your past is best let go of Sept. 22) promptly. Move forward with optimism. The best is yet to come. Make romance a priority.

Partnership issues are best LIBRA addressed before you make a (Sept. 23- move that you may regret. Ask Oct. 23) questions and look for practical ways to solve problems. Keep your life simple and your plans doable.

Peanuts

Refuse to let professional matters disrupt your personal SCORPIO life.

Take your mind off your (Oct. 24worries by spending qualiNov. 22) ty time with your loved ones, family members or someone who always brightens your day.

SAGITTARIUS Emotions will surface, (Nov. 23leading you in a new direcDec. 21) tion. Embrace the inevitable and use your skills and talents to outmaneuver anyone who gets in your way.

Calvin and Hobbes

Emotionally charged matCAPRICORN ters will cause unexpected prob(Dec. 22lems with friends and relaJan. 19) tives. Hold back your feelings if it will help avoid an argument.

Caution is your best defense.

Stay on top of financial AQUARIUS matters, personal invest(Jan. 20ments and health or legal isFeb. 19) sues. Someone with ulterior motives will steer you in the wrong direction. Negotiate on your own behalf.

PISCES If you share your thoughts (Feb. 20- and deepest emotions, you Mar. 20) will get the go-ahead to start making big plans and positive changes. Love is featured, and romance will improve your personal life.