Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

Sunday

Times December 20, 2015

Star Times Hollywood:

Princess Charlotte graces the royal family Christmas card See story on page 12

Magazine

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Funding biggest snag

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2 Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Feature

Eiripan

C

haritable organisation Eiripan believes that access to education and a sense of personal worth are necessary factors in the process that transforms a child into a competent adult, and that growing up without money need not mean growing up without hope.

That is why the organisation has several projects focused on providing a brighter future for children, especially in the North Rupununi region.

Eiripan was established by philanthropist Melanie McTurk and a group of friends in 2005 under the Friendly Society Eiripan volunteers spread Christmas cheer

Not letting go! Children with their gifts from Eiripan

Act of Guyana. The organisation believes that literacy is a necessary tool for development and that personal participation in the development process is essential to stronger and better communities.

Eiripan is the Makushi word meaning “to share”, and the organisation’s goal is to increase literacy levels of children in the Northern Rupununi savannah region.

The organisation is convinced that books, toys and rewards inspire children born and/or living in the Northern Rupununi region to dream, that is why it regularly donates to the region and encourages others to do so.

This year, Eiripan would be heading to the villages of Yakarinta, in the North Rupununi, and Shulinab in the South Rupununi. The organisation plans on rewarding the children for going to school by giving them each a Christmas present. The Eiripan team plans to depart Georgetown December 27 to the villages.

“Eiripan is motivated because we believe that books and toys and a sense of self-worth should be a part of the process of changing a child to an adult. And in the Rupununi, where it's difficult for children to access these things, there is a need for projects like ours.

We just believe that if you can help someone you should do so, and caring is in fact sharing,” Neketa Forde, a member of the organisation, expressed in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

Forde added that the public can assist by donating used clothing, school back packs, toilet paper, eating utensils (children would eat after their parents because they lack the utensils, so having enough of this would mean every-

one can eat at the same time), and fuel and vehicles (to go into the region).

In furtherance of its ideals, Eiripan currently sponsors four annual projects: The Annual Book Drive and Classroom Enhancement Project, because Eiripan believes that books encourage imagination, creativity, and personal growth; Christmas for Makanaima's Angels, (a gift project) because the organisation believes that toys are a wonderful mechanism through which children grow and learn, and that the joy that can be had from play should be part of every individual’s journey through childhood; ‘Good Job Awards’ to encourage and reward students who have achieved academic success through hard work and perseverance (which the public can support through the provision of prizes and sponsorship), and ‘Our Special Project’, a developmental "toys tool kit" for nursery schools worth $30,000 per school ($150US).

The public can also contribute new or used (in sound condition) teach-

All smiles with goodies from Eiripan

ing and reading materials such as textbooks, storybooks and magazines, along with classroom essentials and teaching aids such as toys, charts, and stationary.

Persons can also donate towards the purchase of text and reference materials, teaching aids, plyboard and paint for blackboards; reading books and other materials.

Items for the party such as food, drinks, snacks and games, sweets, balloons, or financial contributions, which can be used to purchase these items, are also welcome.

The cost of transportation is possibly one of the highest expenses associated with any Eiripan project, due to the vast distances and difficult con-

ditions associated with accessing these communities. The public can help by contributing fuel for the journey or making a financial contribution towards the purchase of fuel. Also, support can be given in this aspect through the donation of a fuelled vehicle and driver for the transport of Eiripan items and members in and out of the region.

“We are eternally grateful to all the companies and individuals who have helped to make our projects a success in past years, and look forward to your continued support in the future,” Forde declared.

For more information on the organisation, visit Eiripan on Facebook or call 643-4110.

Many gather in Parikawaru-nawa, South Rupununi, for gifts and other goodies handed out by Eiripan

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine

3

Times Feature

F

ootball is by far the most popular sport in the Rupununi, and the ladies are getting in on the sport.

“Football to the women of the Rupununi is of much importance because it is a very active game, it helps women with their self-esteem, teaches them to be good team players and develop a positive perspective,” Abigail Allicock, part of the Surama Recky Sport Club, revealed in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

She added that “in order to be on a team, one has to be very disciplined. Football keeps the women in unity and love.”

Age range of the players

Funding biggest snag manager and coach from Surama village.

According to Abigail, the club was started by the Allicock brothers, Theophilus and Fredrick Allicock, and other families.

Explaining how beneficial football is to her personally, Abigail said the sport keeps her fit, relaxes her and helps her “learn how to deal with different situations on the ground.”

Abigail has been playing football for more than 15 years and she was once a national player for the under 18 women’s team.

Over the years, Surama Recky Sport Club has won numerous tournaments and best club titles. The club has guest players from differShowing off prizes from a game

Pre-match greetings

in Abigail’s club is 11 to 36 years old. It is made up of 20 players, including the team

ent communities, including Marissa and Wowetta.

According to the North

Rupununi Football Sub Association (NRFSA), football plays an integral role in integration and cohesion

of communities across the North Rupununi, as well as provides a positive social impact on the general popula-

tion, more so the younger generation.

NRFSA contributes to the development of football, and is widely recognised as the most organised and efficient football association in the Rupununi.

At present, full members of the NRFSA are Annai United, Three Hills, Basin F.C., Kwatamang, Wowetta Premier Conquerors, Surama F.C., Net Rockers, Splashing Stars, Shooting Stars, Crashwater F.C., Rewa F.C. and Bina Hill. It is hoped that in the future, more clubs would join the

NRFSA. NRFSA disclosed too that a major deterrent for interested clubs is the lack of finance for gear and infrastructure. One such club is the Surama Recky Sport Club. Its needs include gear and financial support to help in the development of its players.

If you would like to donate to the Surama Recky Sport Club, call 657-1221 or 653-7160. Visit North Rupununi Football Sub Association on Facebook for more info on football in the Rupununi.

Guyanese comedians to spread holiday laughs

G

uyanese comedians will come together to give their fans an evening of laughs for the holidays.

On December 26 and 27, the 7th annual edition of “Uncensored” would be performed at the National Cultural Centre.

The cast includes Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones, Kirk “Chow Pow” Jardine, Leza “Radika” Singh, Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson, Odessa Primus, Kirt “Chubby” Williams, Michael Ignatius, Jermaine Grimmond, Sean Thompson, Mark Luke Edwards, Kirwyn Mars and Chris Gopaul.

Award winning stand-up comedian, singer, actress, writer and director Odessa Primus would also be entertaining the crowd.

Born and raised in Bartica, Odessa grew up in a very closeknit family. As a child, she was actively involved in modelling, poetry and singing.

She attended Second Avenue Nursery School then went on to St Anthony’s Primary before attending Bartica Secondary. She was brought to Georgetown city for a more grounded education and completed her secondary education at Queen’s College and School of the Nations sixth form.

Throughout her school life, Odessa also participated in debating and the junior calypso compe-

Mark Luke Edwards

Odessa Primus

Michael Ignatius

titions, which opened many doors for her.

The comedian’s style of comedy is straightforward, but well received by the masses. This was proven when she won “Uncensored 6” last year.

Mark Luke Edwards is another crowd favourite that will be on the stage. Mark is an actor, writer, director, stand-up comedian and poet.

He was just 12 years old when moved from Wakenaam Island to Georgetown. Living in the city exposed him to many intriguing things – including comedy.

Education was a priority in his new home, and it was at secondary school he developed an appreciation for drama.

For the school’s annual

Christmas concerts, he would often perform in skits, which subsequently led to performing in plays at his local church. Although he was always part of the Theatre Guild, he officially joined in 2012.

Mark is an accountant, with a degree in Accountancy from the University of Guyana in 2003.

His most famous roles are in the “Link Show”; Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream”, directed by Robinson; Ronald Hollingsworth’s “Watch de Ride”, directed by Jennifer Thomas; “Front Yard” directed by Jennifer Thomas and Sheron CadoganTaylor, and “Full Hundred”, written and directed by Althea Thomas, among others.

This multi-talented actor has added stand-up comedy to his rep-

ertoire. He placed second in the recently concluded “King of the Ground” and will be competing in “Uncensored 7” for the title of King of Uncensored.

Michael Ignatius is an actor, stand-up comedian and writer. He was raised in Triumph, but later moved to Beterverwagting, on the East Coast Demerara.

His participation in school concerts, along with his sense of humour and natural knack for making people laugh, has led him to become one of Guyana’s top entertainers/actors.

The country is frequently treated to his performances in the popular Link Show, “Nothing to Laugh About”, among several other comedy jams. He has also starred in Guyanese movies

such as “83 Million Gees”, “Brown Sugar Too Bitter for Me” and “A Force to Reckon With”.

Michael attended the BV Community High School and represented the school in a play called “Blood Thicker Than Water” at the Theatre Guild. It was there that he caught the attention of producer/director Desiree Edghill, who later commended him for his work. She also invited him to participate in a documentary she was making on HIV/AIDS. It was the beginning of his collaboration with theatre and HIV/ AIDS awareness, and pretty soon, he was training to become a certified Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) officer, which saw him educating his peers via workshops and drama/theatre in various parts of Guyana.

Michael currently works fulltime with the new Giftland Mall on the East Coast as a marketing assistant and is the proud father of two sons, Xavier and Jadin.

Last year, Michael placed third at “Uncensored”, and this year he will be competing again.

To see these and many more of our local talented comedians, don’t miss “Uncensored 7”. Tickets are available at the National Cultural Centre, Giftland Mall, Elegance Jewellery, Payless Variety Story and Nigel’s Supermarket.

4

Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Feature

S

preading Christmas cheer is one of Give Another Chance Foundation’s main objectives this year. Through its activities, the Foundation is putting smiles on faces countrywide.

Already for the year, the Foundation made a donation to Diana Seymoore, who is Miss Wakenaam 2015, and offered GYD $100,000 in cash from the GACF education fund towards continued studies.

Additionally, GACF in collaboration with The Bank of Nova Scotia, commissioned libraries to Arthurville nursery and primary schools valued GYD$ 300,000. GACF also donated furniture and books, along with the libraries.

More than 20 students preparing for the National Grade Six Assessment are currently benefiting from free extra lessons. All study materials are being provided by GACF. This Christmas, a

20ft, strikingly beautiful Christmas tree was the remarkable initiative of the Foundation’s founder Miranda Thakur-Deen and her family, as she wanted

residents of Wakenaam to have a cheerful Christmas.

Give Another Chance Foundation (GACF) is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation registered

Giving presents to senior citizens

in Guyana, with more than seven years of giving back to the society.

Its staff spans a range of disciplines from the social sciences, public policy, technology, and the creative arts. This interdisciplinary team collaborates to bring cross-disciplinary insights to a future that combine complex challenges and require unconventional perspectives.

The Board of Directors is committed to the financial, operational, and intellectual vitality of the organisation.

From the earliest days, the Board has collaborated with management to evolve the organisation’s mission, resources, and administrative practices to meet the demands of a changing world.

Give Another Chance Foundation works in rural and outskirt urban communities of Guyana. These areas are known for high levels of poverty and low levels

The many children who received Christmas goodies from the Foundation

of educational achievement.

The Foundation works on self-reliant projects where its education programmes focus not just on access, but on attainment – ensuring vulnerable children have the right infrastructure, resources, teaching and parental support in order to have a quality education, and go on to lead productive, happy lives. This is complemented by the Foundation’s livelihood programmes that work to create secure incomes. The organisation also helps to improve agricultural practices and market awareness for farming communities.

GACF’s goals are to improve children’s lives by creating a social movement that delivers effective health, education, nutritional programmes; to give children an opportunity to realise their own personal achievement whether academically, artistically or within the realms of sports; and to promote peace, justice, understanding and friendly relations between the people of Guyana and people of the nations.

The organisation is com-

mitted to providing basic education from pre-school to university, and healthcare to underprivileged children in rural and urban communities. It believes that whether you are addressing healthcare, poverty, population control, unemployment or human rights, there is no better place to start than in the corridors of education.

Give Another Chance Foundation works with girls and boys in rural communities of Guyana to ensure

they are able to learn the skills and gain the knowledge that will help them break out of poverty and secure their future with an After School Teaching programme.

Laying the foundations for learning, the organisation focuses on delivering quality early learning programmes. It ensures children get the best education at primary level, focusing on math, literacy, sciences, health, agriculture, critical thinking and more.

Notably, the Foundation works with men and women in rural communities to ensure they are able to earn a living, support their children’s education and have enough food to feed their families.

The Foundation helps communities find long-term solutions to poverty through innovative education and livelihood projects, which empower an individual to earn a livelihood. Its goal is to increase awareness on a range of issues – from healthcare to appropriate social behaviour to understanding one's rights, and in the process help persons become better citizens.

The Foundation plans many more activities in its efforts to spread Christmas joy to all. For more information, visit Give Another Chance Foundation on Facebook.

Singer Vanilla, a member of the Foundation, spreads Christmas cheer to children in Sophia

Founder Miranda Tahkur (right) hands out gifts

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Times Women

‘I am proud to be Guyanese’ “A

lthough I have not been back in years, I am proud to be Guyanese,” says Sasha Pilgrim a U.S.-based author and entrepreneur.

Born in Linden in 1987, Sasha spent a few years of her childhood in Berbice before relocating to US. She currently resides in New Jersey where she studied and obtained degrees

Sasha said she loves how diverse her family is, because it is a reflection of her homeland Guyana.

A devoted Christian, Sasha attends New Beginnings Christian Outreach Ministries, located in Paterson, New Jersey. She serves as an adjutant, a member of Judah Performing Arts Ministries, assistant director on one

Sasha's book

in General Sociology from Bloomfield College and BA in Business Administration & Management from Pillar College.

Her paternal grandparents came from Suriname.

Her great-great grandfather came from India, while her maternal grandfather is mixed with Portuguese.

of the many outreach projects of New Beginnings, a Sunday school teacher, and member of New Beginnings Media Ministry and currently in the New Beginnings Minister in Training programme. She also serves as a member of Greater Life Inc, an outreach organisation for young people with-

in the city of Newark New Jersey.

Sasha is a motivational speaker and offers mentoring services. She also finds time for her photography business, and her online boutique.

“Understanding & Embracing Your Season of Singleness: Single, Saved & Young” is a book that was written at a time when Sasha started to get serious about her Christian faith.

“It took a total of 2 to 3 years before it was completed. I wanted to share with others how important it is to have a strong relationship with God. What it means to really think about the direction of one’s life and tap into the greatness that has been placed within. Each one of us was created with a divine purpose and with a great destiny. We just have to be the one to realize that we are of importance.

US-based Guyanese author Sasha Pilgrim (Tinnetta Bell photo)

However, in order to do that we have to be in relationship with the one that create us.

If not, we will continue to walk aimlessly searching for what makes us happy,” she expressed.

The author added that the book is a motivational and inspirational read for those that aspire to be more

than just someone who is “ordinary”.

Her advice for future writers is simple - begin to write. Keep a journal always and write down thoughts throughout the day. Make an outline of what it is you want to write on. Stick to the plan. Know that deadlines can be extended; just

make sure that you set them. Remain focused and don’t get discouraged.

“There will be times where you will not feel like writing and you will want to give up. Just remember why you started and how far you’ve gotten. Make it your business to find time to be in your own space and write.

Creativity flows at all hours, be open to great ideas. Have just a few people you trust (I had only two), that can read your work and give you feed back. This will help to get you to really think about the clarity of your work and how you can make improvements. Stay motivated and stay encouraged.

And remember, you can do it,” she encouraged. (www. guyanesegirlsrock.com)

6 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Book World

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

By Petamber Persaud

W

hat’s new for Christmas on the literature-scape of Guyanese Literature?

Not much, save and except, two events (of which I am aware) focusing on the season.

These two events were “Expressions 3” - an evening of poetry, storytelling and song, and the release of a new Kross Kolor album “Christmas with us” Vol. 2.

Below find two extracts of new writings on Christmas performed at “Expressions 3”: Silent Night by Tamara Rodney A celebration cannot be pure unless it is equal. ….This Christmas, Set aside your wish list just for a while and make a

compassion list For those you can help Give gifts of hope and assurance This Christmas, let prayers go up in silent night Let our thoughts remember children deserving of hope And a people who long for the joy of Christmas, No more silent nights of hunger and pain and selfishness ‘Tis the Season’ written and performed by Lloyda Nicholas-Garrett Tis the season of a litany of things Even Jesus is on hire purchase Reason flows like a river of green notes Out of weary ATMs Worth is wrapped up in bows and ribbons

A Guyanese Christmas masquerade group

And doled out as props to our status We drink eat and are merry Laying like the fatted calf on a platter of new things Helpless to the wrath Of January’s bill collector Despite the dearth of writings on Christmas, there were bundles and bundles of writings surfacing for the Christmas season, including the 71 entries submitted to the Guyana Prize for Literature, the 40 scripts submitted to the National Drama Festival and scores of scripts submitted to the Secondary School Drama Festival.

What’s new on Christmas in the literature-scape of Guyanese Literature? Not much, so we would have to turn back to the ‘old’ pieces.

This first piece takes us back to the sugar plantation days. It is titled “Cent and Jill” written by Rooplal Monar and taken from “Backdam People”.

Every time Christmas season approaching me does always remember one particular Friday gone back when me one small boy going to estate two-storey white, red and colour payoffice.

Well, the week befo' the Friday reach, thempicknie inside light-light, as though they could fly like bird, specially when them mind flash on them fancy sweetie and cent and jill which they does scrambleup in Big Manager yard on that last Friday afternoon befo' school close, just like when dog does fight among theyselffo food which been thrown to them from verandah-top, while the Missie giggling.

And once them picknie

getting sweetie and cent and jill, they ain't care bout the bruise-up and kickup and push-down they does get during the scrambling. Some time fight does break¬out, but is all in the fun once Big Manager Missie and them other manager missie throwing sweetie and cent and jill.

Here is part of a poem by S. E. Wills, titled“Christmas in the Tropics” written in 1907 especially for the season.

With sweet anticipations of the cheer the season brings…

O, Queen of the Seasons, happy childhood is thy other name; Thy spirit dwells, in the sunny lands and milder climes the same, Within heart of youth; also in those advanced in years…

In these realms within the bounds of Cancer and of Capricorn, We have caught the ruling spirit of the day the Christ was born....

We may not have Yule log or the hanging mistletoe, But then we have the sunshine and the hearts that with it go…

And in these warmer regions of this fair old world of ours We can brave the thorns at Christmas times and boldly pluck the flowers, We can smooth down petty diff’rences and give the rein to peace, We can but bid our wrongs be silent and our jealousies to cease …

Godfrey Chin writing in “Nostalgias – Golden Memories of Guyana 19401980” Our Christmas spirit is Guyana’s pressure relief valve as carnival is to

neighbouring Trinidad. It’s the season when poor man is a rich man and vice versa, when kindness, gentility and brotherhood level out, like the water in yesteryear’s vat…

Fortuitously, its celebration over an extended period at year-end was the perfect celebration that fused the nation, and heralded each New Year with the hope that prosperity will continue to bless…

Beryl Gilroy issued similar sentiments in “Sunlight on Sweet Water”: All children were consciously co-operative, running minor and major errands without complaint.

Politeness was carried almost to the point of mockery.

And lest we forget the ‘old’ songs written by Guyanese: “A Little Wind of Christmas”, adapted from a poem by A. J. Seymour, music by Teiron Jones; “A Christmas Song”

by Joan and Michael Gilkes; “Christmas Crazy”

by Deryck Bernard; “A Very Merry Guyanese Christmas” by John ‘Slingshot’ Drepaul, and three popular calypsos: “Happy Holidays” by the Four Lords, “Christmas is with You Again” by the Mighty Canary and “Christmas Morning” by Captain McKenzie.

For next Christmas, I hope to put plans into motion to encourage more writings on such a season in which we all participate.

Another competition perhaps!

Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@ yahoo.com

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Times Heritage

St. Peter’s Church Leguan

S

t. Peter’s Church was originally constructed December 9, 1827.

However, it was replaced by the present structure on St. Peter’s Day June 29, 1855. Prior to the erection of the first church, services were held under a clump of bamboo trees.

On November 25, 1826 as recorded by the pencil minute of foolscap in the vestry book of the parish, a meeting was held in the house of Captain Thierens of Plantation Vissilvalligheid. At this meeting it was decided that a church and parsonage should be built.

A site was chosen on the frontlands of Plantation Enterprise, Leguan where the church is still functioning today.

The first church was built at a cost of £400 over a period of six weeks, and was located at the centre of the island. On December 9,1827 this church was opened for service.

The land for the parsonage and the church was acquired in a rather peculiar manner; through a warrant issued by the Governor: Sir Benjamin D'urban on June 12, 1827, ‘authorizing and requiring in His Majesty's name,

St Peter's Church, Leguan Island, Essequibo (1855)

John Theirens and Edward G. Boughton, members of the Vestry for the parish of St. Peters, forthwith to

enter upon and take possession of the said piece of land and to give notice thereof to the proprietor of

Trading Expedition in British Guiana circa 1930

Market Square, Georgetown, British Guiana n.d.

the said property and to offer him a fair compensation,’ to be decided by ‘two appraisers and an umpire of the chosen lot’.

In September of 1827, Mr John Campbell, proprietor of John Campbell & Co. agreed to sell the six acres of land required for the church. There was one small problem: the removal of a house constructed

by Mr Alexander McRae 'for the reception of persons with the most offensive disease, yaws.'

Nine years later, onAugust 8, 1836, the transport for the land of St. Peter’s was at last passed. The sum of 300 guilders per acre was paid by the governor, together with 4,000 guilders for repairs and 350 guilders for the sexton.

The church saw bleak times in the 1840s as many residents of the island migrated to urban areas. The cost of maintenance for the first church was enormous and there were calls for the erection of a permanent building.

It was under the guardianship of Reverend F. J. Wyatt (who would later be appointed as Rector of St. Paul in October 1853) that the desire for a permanent church gained support. Lieutenant Governor Walker laid the foundation stone for the present church on August1, 1853.

St. Peter's was constructed at a cost of £2,500, of which £1,000 was contributed by the Colonial Legislature, £100 by the Society For The Promotion of Christian Knowledge, and the remaining sum of £1,400 by private individuals resident on the island.

The church was designed

by the colonial civil engineer Mr. J. F. Bourne, with contributions by Rev. F. Wyatt and Dr. Boughton.

The church, which is built of brick, was originally covered by a roof of wallaba shingles; this was later replaced by metal roofing. At the left of the north western entrance stands a detached bell tower, surmounted by an octagonal brick spire.

The length of the church is 70 feet, exclusive of the apse. The windows are pointed and are filled with handsome stained glass. The seven in the apse depicts the life of St. Peter, and those in the nave contain flowered quarrels and roses with rich borders. These were

imported from England at a cost of £950.

On St. Peter's Day, June 29, 1855, His Lordship Bishop William Piercy Austin consecrated the building in the presence of the Governor, Mr. P. E. Wodehouse, the Governor's Secretary, Chief Justice, Mr. William Walker, members of the Court of Policy and other prominent individuals.

With its artistic design and leaning tower, St. Peter’s Church, located on the 10,843 acre island of Leguan is regarded as one of the finest brick structures constructed in Guyana.

This church, with its tiled sanctuary, massive brick work, asphalted floor, architectural rafters, and windows portraying events in the life of the patron saint, testifies to the artistry and craftsmanship of Guyanese builders.

Today, while it stands as an important part of Guyana’s built heritage, representative of an integral chapter of our social and cultural development, sadly, it has fallen into a state of dilapidation, with a roof that is in dire need of repair among other areas.

While the National Trust is charged to promote and safeguard the nation’s heritage, we wish to remind citizens that preservation is a task which requires the cooperation of all and urge Guyanese to take an active role in ensuring the long term survival of Guyana’s patrimony by assisting in one way or another in preserving this brick heritage building. Contact can be made with the Anglican Diocese under whose purview it falls.

(National Trust.

Reprinted from a 2010 article)

8 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Travel & Tourism

Scenic trail to get to the ranch

M

anari Ranch, a flourishing cattle ranch, is located seven miles from Lethem. It provides excellent accommodation for tourists who want to explore the picturesque Rupununi savannah.

To get to the ranch, tourists would have to drive over dry savannah and roads – a chance to soak in the fresh air and the scenic landscape.

Exciting days at the ranch include unhurried travel and open-country bird watching, with many herons, storks and raptors. The evening may afford an enjoyable hour or so among tall palms and mango trees near the ranch, or out in the grasslands where, after sunset, several species of nighthawks can be seen.

The ranch, set up in the early 1900s, is described as a “home away from home”. (Photos by Patricia and Jean-Claude)

Comfortable outdoor hangout spot

Entrance and living room

Hammock at the ranch for a restful nap

The rustic Manari Ranch near Lethem

guyanatimesgy.com

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Times Healthy Living

The health benefits of Christmas ingredients

A

lthough there is some uncertainty about where the tradition of eating foods with cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg at Christmas came about, the health benefits of these spices are well documented.

It would seem the reason so many of these spices appear in the foods we eat at Christmas is due to the fact they are all associated with treating colds and flu. We all tend to take these spices for granted but hundreds of years ago, they were the third most expensive commodity in the world after gold and silver.

Cinnamon Cinnamon has been used for centuries in India and helps warm you up and stimulate appetite. It also has an effect on metabolism; controls blood glucose levels and can help with diabetes.

In 2000 the nutrition lab at US Agricultural Research Service found that it can help increase your cells’ responsiveness to insulin.

Nowadays, herbalists use the oil for helping with Irritable bowel syndrome, colds and flu. You might want to attach a few twigs onto your holiday garland.

Cloves Clove oil was used in Ancient China where it was rubbed onto gums to freshen the breath. Even today dentists rub the main constituent of cloves (eugenol) onto patients’ gums as it has an anaesthetic and antibacterial effect. Recent research has found it to be effective against superbug staphylococcus when combined with eucalyptus, lemon, thyme, tea tree and alcohol. Due to its antiseptic properties it can also help with flu, colds, and bronchial congestion.

Ginger Ginger can be enjoyed in so many ways; you can use it in Indian and Chinese cooking, put it into cakes, make it into a preserve and eat it crystallized with sugar.

Nausea, gas and indigestion are all ailments that have been treated by eating ginger.

Ginger has been also shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger root is full of a compound called gingerol, which research has shown has anti-inflammatory properties.

Gingerol has also shown some efficacy as an analgesic, particularly for arthritis patients.

There has even been research showing ginger kills ovarian cancer cells. In addition, ovarian cancer cells do not appear to develop a resistance as they do with some cancer drugs.

Nutmeg Nutmeg may not look the most interesting of spices but it has been used for everything from embalming Ancient Egyptians; a treatment for piles in the Middle Ages to being a wellknown alternative to marijuana. Natives of the Banda Islands, Indonesia rub nutmeg oil on the stomach as a treatment to flu and also rub it onto the forehead to treat headaches.

Christmas drinks

Recent advances in medicine and a greater understanding of human nutrition have led researchers to recognize the existence of a number of substances normally occurring in plants, known as nutraceuticals, which can enhance human health. There is now an acceptance of the link between diet and health and this has evolved into the concept of nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Nutraceuticals have been associated with the prevention and or treatment of at least four life-threatening diseases – cancer, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Examples of nutraceuticals are food supplements that contain substances called phytochemicals. These include vitamins, antioxidants, dietary fibre and free fatty acids.

Sorrel A nutritious drink that is part of local Christmas tradition, sorrel drink is consumed by many who may be unaware of its health benefits.

Sorrel contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, calcium, niacin, riboflavin

and a group of compounds called flavonoids which not only give its deep red colour but are now being recognized as a powerful antioxidant which scavenges the body of free radicals that can cause deadly diseases if they are not removed from the body.

Mauby Mauby will be the choice of many at the dinner table or informal gatherings this Christmas, and particularly for those suffering from high blood pressure, it might be a healthy choice. A new study appears to give support to an earlier one that mauby might be useful in lowering blood pressure.

Trinidad-born Kwame Amin, a student at The City University of New York’s Borough of Manhattan Community College, conducted the study whose findings were consistent with another that examined hypertensive patients. A distinct lowering of the pulse rate was observed in patients using mauby. Mr Amin’s work won first prize for Biomedical Research for Minority Students in the U.S. Other claims about this drink (that it is good for arthritis, reduces cholesterol, treats diarrhoea, and may help fight diabetes) are currently under study.

Ginger beer Throughout history, ginger has been used as a remedy for all sorts of maladies and illnesses. Many assume ginger ale and ginger beer, because they are made with ginger, carry the same benefits. But this depends on the method used to produce the ginger beer.

Modern ginger beer or ale typically does not contain

the amount of ginger necessary to provide much benefit.

In fact, most store-bought ginger beers and ales contain no actual ginger, just ginger flavouring. Some brands are made with real ginger however (as much as 25 grams per bottle). Those can typically be found in health food stores.

Making your own ginger beer may be the better option.

Christmas cake

Prunes, currants and raisins are essential for any black cake. Dried as they are, they are also healthy ingredients within a local Christmas staple.

Prunes often get overlooked as a source of vitamin A, even though they provide more than ten per cent of recommended levels. Potassium is another unexpected benefit you get from eating prunes, which is beneficial for blood pressure and regulating your heartbeat.

Prunes contain the same phenols that plums have, protecting the fats in our system from damage. They also have significant amounts of beta-carotene, whose antioxidant function helps prevent cataracts, cancer, and heart

disease.

When grapes are dried, either using the heat of the sun or by oven drying, the natural fruit sugar, called fructose, is so concentrated that the end result --raisins-are more than 70 per cent pure fructose and chock full of important nutrients such as iron, calcium, protein and vitamin C. Not only that, but raisins also contain a phytonutrient known as oleanolic acid, which helps promote good oral health by destroying the bacteria that causes cavities.

Additionally, one cup of raisins provides about 6 mg of iron--17 per cent of your daily requirement, and, like all dried fruits, are an excellent source of fibre. Also raisins are one of the best dietary sources of boron, a mineral that doesn't get a lot of attention, but it is essential for bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis.

Two powerful compounds found in concentrated amounts in blackcurrants , also known simply as currants (there are red and black currants) may help protect our brains

against diseases of aging.

Preliminary research from the Horticulture and Food Research Institute in New Zealand found that the anthocyanins and polyphenolics found in blackcurrants may help protect against Alzheimer's disease.

An exciting new study shows great promise in the value of the predominate antioxidant in blackcurrants, anthocyanin, to prevent liver cancer one of the most common cancers in the world.

In the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, European physicians intuitively recognized the benefits of blackcurrants’ high vitamin C content in preventing scurvy and as a useful tonic. During this period, blackcurrant was also indicated for various infections, including urinary tract infections, inflammation and intestinal ailments.

Research surrounding the high anthocyanin content and specific polysaccharide composition of blackcurrant is now turning up evidence that may support some of these traditional uses.

10 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Fashion

Y

ou don’t have to resort to typical red and green outfits to make a statement for the holidays.

Sonia Noel’s chic designs, paired with fashionable accessories, are perfect for any occasion.

From cocktail dresses to the ultraglamorous show-stopping pieces, the

designer has something for everyone.

Stunning white lattice pieces for men and women are for those who seek comfort in clothing. Bespoke black and white outfits are ideal for evening events.

For more info on the designs, call 226-3099.

guyanatimesgy.com

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

V

ictoria Loren "Tori" Kelly is an American singer and songwriter who slowly gained recognition after starting to post videos on YouTube at the age of 14. When she was 16, Kelly auditioned for the singing competition television series “American Idol”. After being eliminated from the show, Kelly began to work on her own music. In 2012, she independently released her first EP that she produced, wrote, and mixed herself, titled “Handmade Songs

By Tori Kelly”. The following year, she was introduced to Capitol Records, with which she signed in September.

Kelly's second EP “Foreword” came out in October 2013 as her first major label release. In 2015, Kelly's debut album, Unbreakable Smile, was released. The lead single, "Nobody Love", became her first US Billboard Hot 100 appearance.

Kelly is currently nominated for Best New Artist at the 58th Grammy Awards.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Hollywood

Freida Pinto steps out with her new boyfriend

K

ate Middleton, Prince William, George and Charlotte have all posed for the camera for a festive photo and it's adorable.

Kensington Palace tweeted the picture, and captioned it: "A new family photo - Merry Christmas from The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte".

In a statement the palace said: "The Duke and Duchess continue to receive warm messages about Princess Charlotte from all around the world and they hope that everyone enjoys these lovely photos as much as they do." (Glamour)

A

riana Grande helps you shift your "Focus" back to her with a new surprise project. Following the lukewarm acceptance of her latest single, the pint-size diva put out on December 17 a Christmas EP titled "Christmas & Chill" featuring six original holiday tunes including "Wit It This Christmas", "December", "Not Just One for Christmas" and "Winter Things".

Grande first teased the EP earlier this week, when she shared a preview for another cut "True Love". In a Q&A with fans, the former Nickelodeon star revealed that she and her team fin-

ished the entire songs for the set in only one week.

This isn't Grande's first time to release Christmas music. In 2013, she delivered her first Christmas EP "Christmas Kisses" which included her cover of classics like "Santa Baby" and "Last Christmas". A year later, she dropped an original Christmas song called "Santa Tell Me".

After releasing her latest Christmas project, the 22-year-old singer will continue working on her anticipated third album "Moonlight". The follow-up to last year's "My Everything" is due out sometime in 2016. (AceShowbiz)

One Direction singer confesses he wants to marry Selena Gomez

N

iall Horan is clearly in love with his rumored girlfriend Selena Gomez.

The British singer surprisingly confessed he wanted to marry her during his group One Direction's appearance in the Carpool Karaoke of the Tuesday, December 15 episode of "The Late Late Show with James Corden".

"Do you know the game 'Sleep With,

Lovato, Selena Gomez and Tina Fey," said the 37-year-old actor. Without further ado, Niall said, "Sleep with Tina Fey," to which James exclaimed, "Nice!"

"Marry Gomez," Niall continued. "Marry Selena Gomez, good choice," James said of Niall's choice. "Go in a cruise with Demi Lovato," Niall said of his latest choice. His bandmate Harry Styles who sat on the back

F

reida Pinto has made her first public outing with new polo player boyfriend Ronnie Bacardi, and the pair look really good together.

The 31-year-old actress seems to have found love again after splitting from long-term boyfriend, Dev Patel, this time last year.

Freida showed off her new polo-playing fella as they enjoyed a Lakers basketball game together, laughing and smiling all the way.

The pair have reportedly been dating for two months and Ronnie has already taken Freida away on a romantic holiday. (Glamour)

Drake responds to his Tom Ford lipstick selling out

A

mong other cool and famous men, Drake was honoured in Tom Ford's latest 'Lips & Boys' lipstick collection and, spoiler alert, his shade sold out in mere minutes.

The gorgeous plum-hued shade obviously caught the attention of Drake's thousands of fans as it flew off the shelves both in store and online moments after it was released. It is now being auctioned off on eBay for unmentionable amounts.

Other men honoured in the collection included the ever-handsome Jake Gyllenhaal.

In true Drake style, the rapper weighed in on the situation by sharing the below

Instagram snap with the accompanying caption: "My

Mom bought all of them.

Hey Ma." (Glamour)

Justin Bieber shows off new gold tooth Marry, Cruise'?" host James Corden asked Niall, before explaining, "One person you want to cruise for a year, sharing a room - you spend every minute, every day with them but you do not sleep with them. One of them you marry. One of them you just sleep with." Niall showed a serious facial expression as he listened to James' explanation.

James then gave Niall three names that he had to choose either to sleep with, marry or cruise. "Your three are Demi

seat said of Demi, "Great voice." Niall then chimed in, "Yeah, yeah. She could sing a song. We can have good time."

Niall's surprising confession came just days after Selena set the record straight on rumors saying that they're dating. On the red carpet of the 2015 Billboard's Women in Music event last Friday, the "Hands to Myself" singer said of the rumors, "Oh my god! No," adding, "I love him, I always have.

He's amazing." (AceShowbiz)

J

ustin Bieber is very excited about his new gold tooth. The "As Long As You Love Me" crooner took to Instagram on December 17 to share a photo of him smiling widely while showing off his shiny tooth.

In the snap, Justin donned a black tee with his blonde hair slicked back. A friend wearing a grey beanie and a black tee behind the "What Do You Mean" singer stole a glance at him. He didn't captioned the picture.

A fan of Justin shared a video of him showing off his gold tooth. "I haven't slept for 24 hours. We've been work-

ing hard. We got big news coming," the "Baby" hitmaker said before sticking his tongue out and showing off his teeth.

Justin teased, "I got some big special news coming. I can't tell you right now but I can show you my gold tooth."

Justin shared a selfie on Instagram before the debut of his gold tooth. "Great day," he captioned it.

The "Boyfriend" crooner also posted a video of him dancing to a hip-hop song in front of a mirror with a white piano behind him. "Something special coming," he wrote alongside the clip.

(AceShowbiz)

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Star Times Bollywood

A

tif Aslam is a Pakistani singer and film actor. His film debut was in the 2010 social drama “Bol”, one of the highest-grossing Pakistani films. He has recorded numerous chart-topping songs, and is known for his vocal belting technique. In 2012, Atif became the first man from Asia and the second artist after Bryan Adams, to be permitted to perform inside the Dashrath Rangasla National Football Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal.

In Hollywood, Atif had three songs featured in the American independent film “Man Push Cart”, which won international awards and was praised by critics. He then sang two songs in Mira Nair's film “The Reluctant Fundamentalist”.

His two other songs “Doorie” and “Maula”, from his second album Doorie, were picked up in 2010 for the soundtrack of the Hindi version of the Mexican film “La mujer de mi hermano”. Atif is the youngest recipient of Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, a Pakistani civilian decoration.

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Bollywood

Protest against Jacqueline Fernandez to recreate the Christmas spirit 'Dilwale' in

C

hristmas being the one of the most joyous occasions in the year, Jacqueline Fernandez decided to celebrate it in a unique way.

After her crowd-funding initiative last year where she helped raise funds for underprivileged children, this time Jacqueline has donned the Santa cap for her fans. She wants to bring in the Christmas spirit by thanking her fans for their utmost love and devotion.

The actress will be sending personalized video messages to 10 fan clubs dedicated in her name across all social media platforms.

In addition to this, her numerous fans across the globe including countries like the UAE, Germany,

various cities

Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Trinidad, Tobago, and even Iraq will receive customized gift hampers.

Commenting on this sweet gesture, Jacqueline Fernandez says, "This year has been special because I have taken up some interesting films, and have done work that I am really proud of. I also have two international movies ready for release. So, I wanted to spread the cheer this Christmas, and thank my fans in an interactive way."

No better way to bring in the jingle bells than this!

Jacqueline will be next seen in her big ticket international release “Definition of Fear” followed by Sajid Nadiadwala's “Dishoom” opposite Varun Dhawan. (TOI)

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starts shooting for biopic T

here has been a lot of excitement for Omung Kumar's upcoming biopic “Sarbjit”.

The movie, which has

started shooting with its first schedule in Mumbai, stars Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Randeep Hooda in the lead.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is reported to have a complete makeover for her role as Dalbir Kaur, Sarabjit's sister in

the movie. In order to portray the realistic character of Dalbir Kaur, Aishwarya has chosen a de-glam look with no makeup and simple dressing.

The film is divided into a vast schedule which includes shooting in Mumbai from December, then moving on to shoot in various cities of Punjab and finally the last leg of the schedule will be shot in Delhi in the

A

pologising for his “intolerance” comments before his new release “Dilwale” seems to have created little impact for Shah Rukh Khan as series of protest marred its first show in the state including Indore on Friday.

While first show of his much-hyped movie was cancelled in Jabalpur and Indore after protests, police also resorted to cane charging on protestors in Indore near Sapna Sangeeta area.

Similar protests were witnessed in Dhar, Dewas and Ujjain districts where rightwing activists tried disrupting first show of the movie.

City police have arrested two including Rajesh Shirodkar and Dinesh Goswami following protest at Sapna Sangeeta area.

A large number of activists had gathered outside cinema hall in Sapna Sangeeta area before

screening of the first show and raised slogans against Khan. Amid unexpected protest audience had to leave without watching the movie.

Meanwhile, period drama “Bajirao Mastani” got a breather as Madhya Pradesh HC trashed petitions seeking postponement of the film which also released on Friday. Four days ago, an organisation calling itself Hindu Rashtra Sangathan also put up posters in Indore asking people to ransack cinema halls screening “Dilwale” on December 18. The organisation accused the Bollywood actor of tarnishing the country's image through his statements on intolerance.

The posters were put up at Palsikar Square asking people to gather at Tower Square and move towards cinema halls that screen the movie. Police later removed the poster. (TOI)

Priyanka Chopra becomes Asia's third most followed woman on Twitter

B month of February.

“Sarbjit” is produced by Sandeep Singh, Omung Kumar and Vashu Bhagnani. Script is written by Rajesh Beri and Utkarshini Vashishtha, directed by Omung Kumar, director of photography

by Kiran Deohans, production design by Vanitha Kumar, creative director is Sandeep singh, costumes designed by Shaahid Amir and Neetu Singh and creative producer is Akshay Balsaraf.

Sarbjit is slated to release on May 20, 2016, with its premiere held at the well acclaimed Cannes Film Festival. (TOI)

ollywood actresssinger and former Miss World Priyanka Chopra has become the third most followed woman in Asia with 12 million followers on Twitter.

"Thank you all so much #12MillionPCManiacs this is such a wonderful good luck present!!

You all are my strength," Priyanka tweeted. The actress is the most followed woman on Twitter in Asia after Indonesian singeractress Agnez Mo (14.5 million) and Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone (12.5 million).

Priyanka, who has made India proud by first taking her musical prowess on international shores, and then landing the lead role in American TV series “Quantico”, has had a 50 percent growth in followers over the past year, read an official statement from Twitter.

Needless to say, her popularity has only grown by notches ever since she has stepped foot in foreign showbiz. Having won the Miss World crown in 2000, Priyanka etched her name in Bollywood with a string of roles showcasing her versatility. A National Award winner, she has showcased her acting skills in movies like “Fashion”, “Barfi!” and “Mary Kom”. (IANS)

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine

15

Times Trends

Trending Now

Star of the week

N

umerous celebs have been spotted donning high-necked tops, and they're not just great for day-time dressing. The versatile piece is amazing to make a statement at parties or just an evening stroll.

A polo neck looks great with a pixie crop - actress Kate Mara rocked a lace mini dress to perfection

Actress Hailee Steinfeld shows polo necks can work well during the evening

Patterned black polo neck and burnt orange skirt are gorgeous

Actress and model Emily Ratajkowski showed off her enviable figure in a form-fitting midi skirt and a cropped black sleeveless polo

Gorgeous and youthful, actress and dancer Zendaya proves a soft grey knitted polo neck can work

S The perfect ensemble - sequinned polo neck alongside some Mom-style jeans and casual Nike trainers

aadiqah Aaminah Ramdass, born January 11, 1999, is a Guyanese actress who enjoys giving back to society. Soon Saadiqah will be seen in the local drama series “WHO?� which is scheduled to air in April 2016. She will part of the main cast, playing the role of Mia Zyphrah.

The actress graduated from St. Stanislaus College and is currently furthering her studies at the University of Guyana. Saadiqah enjoys meeting new people, hanging out with friends, following current affairs and volunteering. For more information on the series, visit WHO? on Facebook.

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Art

Walter Gobin was awarded first prize for his painting, "Selfie on the Beach"

Honourable Mention was given to Courtney Douglas for "Reminiscence"

"Pottery and Carpets" by Anna Correia received Honourable Mention

T

he National Art Gallery, Castellani House, is currently showcasing thought-provoking, beautiful pieces by some of the country’s most talented artists.

In collaboration with Republic Bank Limited, Castellani House recently hosted an award ceremony for the winners of the 10th National Biennial Drawing competition.

A number of veteran and fresh artists submitted pieces done with chalk, coloured pencils and chalk pastels – including other materials.

The impressive display of art emphasizes the fact that Guyana is blessed with artistic talent. Aiming to develop the local art industry, Republic Bank Limited donated $1M to the National Art Gallery. This donation is expected to foster the development and skill of drawing and for wider country participation. It also aims to substantially reward the victors of a structured and

transparent competition.

At the 10th National Biennial Drawing exhibition and prize giving event, first place was awarded to Walter Gobin for his piece “Selfie on the Beach”, second place to Kwesi Archer for his piece “The Yellow Girl”, and third place to Josefa Tamayo for her piece entitled “Cannon Ball Flowers”.

Honourable mention was given to Anna Correia for “Pottery and Carpets” and Courtney Douglas for “Reminiscence”.

The exhibition continues until January 23, 2016.

Most of the pieces are for sale. All purchases must be made through the National Gallery’s office between 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday.

Celebrating Guyana’s rich heritage

T

Second prize was awarded to Kwesi Archer for "The Yellow Girl"

"Spirit of Guyana Beasts" by Carlos Savory is a thought-provoking piece

he Guyana Cultural Association of New York, Inc. (GCA) recently opened the Guyana Arts and Cultural Centre – a new phase in its mission to celebrate Guyana’s rich heritage and to encourage and promote Guyanese creativity.

The centre was conceived as a permanent space to showcase Guyanese heritage, to encourage creativity among Guyanese youth in Brooklyn, US, and beyond, and to support intergenerational dialogue. The centre will host exhibitions, displays, and performances. It will also offer training and learning opportunities in the creative arts.

It will advance GCA’s objective to be an important hub for the study and celebration of Guyanese heritage and creativity. The upgraded website (www.guyanaculturalassociation.org) and social media presence will permit dialogue with Guyana and the wider diaspora.

For the past 14 years, GCA has maintained linkages with Guyana through the signature events of its annual Folk Festival in Brooklyn.

Additionally, its annual symposium, literary hang, and Family Fun Day have been successful vehicles for bringing Guyanese together to study and celebrate creativity and common heritage.

Since 2002, GCA’s annual symposia have addressed many themes, personalities, and issues in Guyanese life. They have focused on literature, dance, music, Mittelholzer, masquerade, and challenges such as building national cohesion and trust. Since 2012, the annual symposium has been held biennially in Guyana in partnership with the Ministry/ Department of Culture, Youth, and Sport. The 2012 symposium launched the “Masquerade

Lives” initiative to reinvigorate masquerade.

The annual Folk Festival season showcases Guyanese talent through the Literary Hang, Kwe Kwe Night, and Family Fun Day. Over the past 14 years, Family Fun Day has hosted many performers from Guyana and the diaspora.

The association is pleased to be associated with the efforts to launch Guyana’s inaugural Literary Festival. The goal is to improve literary life in Guyana through a distinctive and sustainable festival. The jubilee literary festival builds upon GCA’s annual Literary Hang.

GCA’s 2016 Folk Festival Season will be special. Members have already started conversations with Guyana’s Department of Culture, Youth, and Sport about the participation of a full masquerade ensemble, indigenous musicians, and dancers from the National School of Dance and the National Dance Company.

They are in touch with the Ministry of Tourism about its participation in the Folk Festival.

Additionally, GCA is in conversation with the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth, and Sport and Ministry of Tourism about Masquerade Jamboree in December 2016.

This event will be the high point in a GCA/ DCYS partnership to revitalize and showcase masquerade. In addition to featuring new publications on Guyana’s masquerade heritage, new music and drama inspired by masquerade, the jamboree will include an international flounce-off with Guyanese and international masquerade ensembles.

There is much more to be accomplished via the Guyana Arts and Cultural Centre.

For more information, visit www. guyanaculturalassociation.org

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 17

Times Tech

A

pple Inc. named Jeff Williams chief operating officer, as part of an announcement of several key executive moves.

Johny Srouji is joining Apple’s executive team as senior vice president for Hardware Technologies and Phil Schiller, senior vice president of worldwide marketing, will also

take on leadership of the App Store across all of Apple’s platforms, the company said in a statement.

The position has been vacant since Tim Cook

left the job to take the role of CEO back in 2011.

The firm didn’t reveal a direct reason for the internal changes, but said that the individual merits of those moving justified the shuffle.

Tech BYTE

Tech BYTE

J

Putting on and taking off the Vozz RS 1.0 helmet

M

otorcycle helmets have been around for almost a century, yet their design has never really deviated from the pull on-pull off type with a chinstrap to secure in place. Australian company Vozz Helmets is changing that with a revolutionary design that renders straps obsolete.

This concept allowed the redesign of the helmet’s underside, resulting in an extended and rounded chin cup that surrounds the head from below, thus eliminating the need

Tech news

A

for a chinstrap to hold it in place. Once the two parts of the helmet have locked, it is supposed to fit perfectly without the need of any kind of restraint and cannot be accidentally removed.

Vozz has also included a safety release system. By removing the two screws that hold the upper hinge in place, emergency personnel can detach the front part of the helmet in a matter of minutes without applying any pressure to the rider’s head.

Brazil court lifts suspension of WhatsApp service

Brazilian judge on Thursday ordered the lifting of a 48-hour suspension of the services in Brazil of Facebook Inc’s WhatsApp phone-messaging application, overturning an order from a lower court.

The interruption of WhatsApp’s text message and Internet telephone service caused outrage in Latin America’s largest country, where the company estimates it has 100 million personal users, and led to angry exchanges on the floor of Congress.

Rival messaging system Telegram said on Twitter that it received 1 million downloads in Brazil in one day due to the outage.

A judge in the commercial capital Sao Paulo had ordered the suspension of WhatsApp’s services from midnight on Wednesday (0200 GMT Thursday) after the California-based company, despite a fine, failed to comply with two judicial rulings to share information in a criminal case.

After several hours of suspension, WhatsApp services were restored following the injunction from the higher court.

The incident highlighted growing international tensions between technology companies’ privacy concerns and national authorities’ efforts to use social media to recover information on possible criminal activities.

ellyfish are considered the bonsai tree or lava lamps of the pet world.

Unfortunately, they’re also so fragile that they can’t be kept in conventional saltwater aquaria, so they need to be kept in special tanks.

In 2011, Jellyfish Art introduced its first tank and now is rolling out an improved version on Kickstarter called the Jellyfish Cylinder Nano, which boasts a self-contained support system and LED lights.

According to the company, the Jellyfish Cylinder Nano is designed for the jellyfish-owning novice, which is a very large market.

In conventional saltwater aquaria, the fragile animals are sucked up by the filter

Tech news

F

system.

However, the Jellyfish Cylinder Nano uses a laminar water flow pattern that mimics the natural currents of the open sea and circulates the jellyfish without harm.

The complete kit includes everything needed to set up a habitat to house three Moon jellyfish, which can be redeemed from the company when the tank is ready to receive them.

Ford’s self-driving cars for 2016 testing debut

ord Motor Co. has obtained permits to send a fleet of autonomous Fusions developed in Palo Alto out for testing on California’s roads.

Beginning next year the Detroit automaker’s Research and Innovation Centre in Palo Alto will send a fleet of fully autonomous Ford Fusion sedans on public roads in California, the company announced Tuesday.

No longer will autonomous cars be the tech toys of Silicon Valley’s most glamorous companies like Google and Tesla.

The Palo Alto lab supports Ford Smart Mobility, which the company describes as a 10-year plan “to take the company to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and data and analytics.”

Ford also announced that it is adopting Pivotal software development services to simplify how customers use technology to access vehicles and joining with Girls Who Code, to help close the gender gap in tech and engineering fields.

18 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Times Home & Cooking

Recipe of the Week

Ingredients

B

righten your home this Christmas with a beautifully decorated table – whether it is the dining table or beside table – to enjoy throughout the season.

1 large onion, quartered 2 carrots, roughly chopped 3 bay leaves Handful of fresh parsley stalks 10 black peppercorns 1.5 litres cider 5-7kg smoked ham on the bone, soaked overnight in cold water 12 cloves 5 tbsp runny honey 2 tsp ground ginger Good pinch of cayenne pepper 2-3 tbsp Demerara sugar

Method

A simple Christmas themed candle holder on the sideboard or buffet cabinet or table is staple holiday decor

Coffee table couture for Christmas

Preheat the oven to 120°C/fan100°C/gas ½. Use a deep roasting tray (with a rack) that’s big enough to hold the ham. Put the onion, carrots, bay leaves, parsley and peppercorns in the tray. Pour the cider over, and then put the rack on top.

Sit the ham on the rack and cover with a large tent of foil, sealing it well. Put on the hob over a high heat and bring to the boil. Simmer for 15 minutes, and then transfer to the oven. Cook for 12 hours or overnight.

(You can now leave it for 1-2 days before finishing the recipe – see tip.)

Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan160°C/gas 4. Using a sharp knife, carefully peel the skin away from the cooked ham, leaving as much of the fat behind as you can. Score the fat in a criss-cross pattern and press the cloves into the crosses.

Mix the honey with the ginger and cayenne pepper, then smear all over the ham. Sprinkle with the Demerara sugar, then roast in the oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour until sticky and piping hot throughout.

Serves 8

GREATEST COOKING TIPS

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ecause pork can often be overcooked, checking the internal temperature often will help prevent dry pork.

Smoked turkey breast and turkey bacon are the best substitutes for ham.

Lower-priced cuts of high-quality meat become succulent dishes when braised. Season and brown meat in a heavy pan with a tight lid. Add a bit of liquid, cover, and cook long and slow at a low heat, which tenderizes the meat and creates a tasty sauce.

Enjoy Christmas dinners on a festive and luxurious dining table

W

HOME HELP

ard off booklice with silica packets. Those little packets of silica you find in packaging of electronics, shoes, nutritional supplements, etc., absorb moisture. Booklice live in the damp fungus and mould that thrives in books. Put silica packets behind the books and anywhere you suspect moisture.

Putting 3-4 cloves in sugar container will keep the ants at bay.

To wash a narrow vase, pour in 2 tablespoons of dry rice and ½ cup warm water, cover with the palm of your hand, shake vigorously, then rinse.

To remove ring around the collar, draw over the stain with a piece of white chalk. Let it soak up the grease for a few minutes, then dust off excess chalk and launder as usual.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine19

Family Times

PARENTING

A

JOKES The gift “Thanks for the electric guitar you gave me for Christmas,” little Chris Cody said to his uncle the first time he saw him after the holidays. “It’s the best present I ever got.”

“That’s great,” said his uncle. “Have you learnt how to play it?”

“Oh, I don’t play it,” the little fellow said.

“My mom gives me a dollar a day not to play it during the day and my dad gives me five dollars a week not to play it at night.”

Christmas gifts for men Buying gifts for men is not nearly as complicated as it is for women. Follow these rules and you should have no problems.

Rule #1: When in doubt - buy him a cordless drill. It does not matter if he already has one.

I have a friend who owns 17 and he has yet to complain. As a man, you can never have too many cordless drills. No one knows why.

Rule #2: If you cannot afford a cordless drill, buy him anything with the word ratchet or socket in it. Men love saying those two words.

“Hey George, can I borrow your ratchet?” “OK. By-the-way, are you through with my 3/8inch socket yet?” Again, no one knows why.

Rule #3: If you are really, really broke, buy him anything for his car, a 99 cent ice scraper, a small bottle of de-icer or something to hang from his rear view mirror. Men love gifts for their cars. No one knows why.

Rule #4: Never buy a man anything that says “some assembly required” on the box. It will ruin his special day and he will always have parts left over. No one knows why.

Rule #5: Never buy men bathrobes. Once I was told that if God had wanted men to wear bathrobes, he wouldn’t have invented Jockey shorts.

Grandma’s Christmas strategy One Christmas, a mother decided she was no longer going to remind her kids to send thank you notes.

Consequently, the kids’ grandmother never received any thanks for the Christmas checks she sent to the kids.

The very next Christmas, all the kids stopped by in person to thank their grandmother for their checks.

When asked by a friend what caused this change in behaviour, the grandmother replied, “Simple. This year I didn’t sign the checks.”

Christmas wish When a father asked his little boy what he wanted for Christmas, the boy replied, “A baby sister.”

As it turned out, the wife was pregnant, and delivered on Christmas Eve. On Christmas day she brought home a brand new baby sister for their son.

The next year, when the father asked his little boy what he wanted for Christmas, the boy said, “If it wouldn’t make mommy too uncomfortable, I’d like a pony.”

The 4 stages of life 1. You believe in Santa Claus 2. You don’t believe in Santa Claus 3. You dress up as Santa Claus 4. You look like Santa Claus

s you’re doing your shopping this season, don’t lose sight of the things that truly matter, such as ensuring you give the gift of good guidance to your children that will last them a lifetime.

Make him/her feel capable.

While you’re probably an expert at boosting your kid’s ego with pep talks, praise, and encouragement, it’s a lot trickier to stand back and let him handle challenging tasks on his own. Kids who learn to work things out for themselves are far more likely to try new things, take risks, and grow up to be effective problemsolvers. They’re also better equipped to face obstacles headon rather than retreat at the first sign of adversity.

Watch your words (and tone). Even the most patient parent loses it occasionally. But if you’re about to snap at your

child, remember this guideline: Speak to her in the same respectful manner you’d talk to a friend or a co-worker. If you do that, she’ll be far more likely to listen, and she’ll always feel comfortable coming to you for help or guidance.

Nurture your relationship.

“Happy couples give kids a sense

of security and predictability,” says William J. Doherty, Ph.D., a Parents advisor and the author of Take Back Your Marriage.

While your kids might say “Yuck!” when they catch you and your husband kissing, PDAs and lovey-dovey talk provide them with a blueprint for developing their own healthy relationships

down the road.

Manage your own stress.

Your child learns to cope with challenges and disappointments by watching how you do it.

Dealing with pressure or anger in a productive way provides a prototype for him to follow and also creates a home environment that seems stable, predictable, and safe -- and, by extension, a sense that the world is all of those things too.

Kiss and tell. Many studies have shown that children who feel cherished by their parents tend to be more secure and self-confident than those who don’t. Acts of affection will do more than reassure your child: Research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison has found that they’ll actually cause her to release oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone” that offsets negative and stressful feelings.

STORY TIME

The legend of the Christmas tree

T

wo little children were sitting by the fire one cold winter’s night. All at once they heard a timid knock at the door, and one ran to open it.

There, outside in the cold and the darkness, stood a child with no shoes upon

his feet and clad in thin, ragged garments. and every year it bore wonderful golden He was shivering with cold, and he asked to fruit for the kind children. come in and warm himself.

(By Lucy Wheelock, from “For the “Yes, come,” cried both the children; “you Children’s Hour,” by Bailey and Lewis) shall have our place by the fire. Come in!”

They drew the little stranger to their warm seat and shared their supper with him, and gave him their bed, while they slept on a hard bench.

In the night they were awakened by strains of sweet music and, looking out, they The world is full of people, saw a band of children in shining garments Content to be what they are Who never know the joy of success; approaching the house. They were playing on They lack the will to go that far. golden harps, and the air was full of melody.

Suddenly the Stranger Child stood before Yet in this world there is a need, them; no longer cold and ragged, but clad in For some to lead the rest silvery light.

To rise above the average life, His soft voice said: “I was cold and you By giving of their best. took Me in. I was hungry, and you fed Me. I was tired, and you gave Me your bed. I Are you the one who dares, am the Christ Child, wandering through the To try when challenged by the task world to bring peace and happiness to all To rise to heights you’ve never dreamed, Or is that too much to ask? good children. As you have given to Me, so may this tree every year give rich fruit to This can be your year, you.”

For great purpose to achieve So saying, He broke a branch from the fir If you accept the challenge, tree that grew near the door, and He planted And in yourself believe. it in the ground and disappeared.

But the branch grew into a great tree, Anonymous

Reflections

By Grammar G

T

“

he term Grinchy shall apply when Christmas spirit is in short supply.”

Many of us are familiar with the old cartoon “How the Grinch stole Christmas”, which became a global phenomenon with the Jim Carrey film version in 2000 – from which the abovementioned quote is said to have originated.

A book of the same name was published in 1957, created by the well-known Theodor “Dr. Seuss” Geisel, criticizing the commercialization of Christmas, it is said. Both the later cartoon and film versions are derived from the book.

For many, the word grinch (with a capital G) has always meant the mean-spirited,

anti-Christmas character originated and popularized in the book/cartoon/ film.

Some though suggest it derives from the French

grincheux for “grumpy”, especially at Christmas, or someone who is extremely greedy during the festive season. According to several

other sources, the word grinched (common g) has been around since the 17th century, then meaning “tightly closed, clenched” (teeth).

Others say it was used by Kipling in 1892 as grinching, to mean “a harsh, grating noise”, and was used as a surname in fiction for mean characters since 1903.

Today it is used to mean “an unpleasant person who spoils other people’s fun or enjoyment” even when it’s not Christmas.

“How the Grinch stole Christmas” premiered on American TV Dec. 18, 1966 and went on to become one of the most memorable Christmas time stories in the world.

20 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 20, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Sunday Puzzle

Can you decipher these common Christmas carols?

1. Happiness to the global ecosystem.

2. Small male percussionist.

3. I am experiencing nocturnal visions of a colourless holiday.

4. Festoon the corridors.

5. Oh holiday conifer see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 21

Times Kids

Creature Corner

T

GEOZONE

Rain

Alpaca

he alpaca (Vicugna pacos) is a South American animal, related to the camel, that has been domesticated for thousands of years in the Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Chile.

The alpaca is the smallest of its camel family, averaging 3 feet (91.4 cm) at the shoulder, four to seven feet (120 to 225 cm) in length, and weighing about 121 to 143 lbs (55 to 65 kg).

Native to the Andes, alpacas live at elevations of up to 15,750 feet (4,800 m) but they have been exported all over the world to live on farmlands.

Alpacas are raised mainly for their soft wool, considered the second strongest of any other animal’s worldwide, after mohair. Though they are mainly bred for their wool, some people eat their meat, considered a luxury dish in Peru.

Alpacas are said to come in 22 colours, from a true, blue-black through browns and tans to white.

As herbivores, alpacas

Rain is an important part of the water cycle

only eat vegetation: mostly grass, but their diets can also include leaves wood, bark or stems.

Alpacas spit when they are distressed or feel threatened, and can also hum or shriek.

Colouring Fun

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

digits 1 through 9.

W

hen the sun shines, it heats the water in the rivers and seas.

The water changes into water vapour. This water vapour rises up into the sky. The water vapour cools into droplets and becomes a cloud.

When there are too many droplets in the cloud, they fall towards the ground as rain. Rain can either form as ice crystals melt or as a combination of many smaller water droplets. Scientists call this

precipitation.

The shape and colour of clouds can help you predict rain. Short bursts of rain are called showers. According to the Irish Meteorological Service Online, rain can be light, medium or heavy. Raindrops are usually larger than 0.5mm in diameter, and drizzle is smaller than 0.5mm in diameter.

Rain occurs on other planets in our Solar System but it is different to the rain we experience here on Earth.

Dot to Dot

22 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Exploring the realms of history, science, nature and technology

By Laurie Triefeldt

This sweet and spicy confection has become a fall and winter tradition for many families. It can be baked into cookies or loaves of bread, or even constructed into sugary, edible houses.

Gingerbread man

What’s in a name?

Did you know?

• 1 stick soft butter • 1/2 teaspoon salt

In ancient Sanskrit, the knobby, twisted ginger root was called “srigavera,” which translates as “root shaped like a horn.”

Queen Elizabeth I of England is credited with the invention of the gingerbread man, which she presented to visiting dignitaries.

In medieval England, gingerbread, called “gingivere” at the time, referred to preserved ginger. (Ginger was used to help preserve foods and to disguise the taste of food that was going bad.)

The word “gingivere” was from the Old French word “gingebras,” which was derived from the Latin name “zingebar.”

It was not until the 15th century that gingerbread actually referred to the ginger-flavored breads, cakes and cookies that we still enjoy today.

In Germany, they make a soft gingerbread called “Lebkuchen.”

India grows more than 33 percent of the world’s ginger. China grows about 20 percent.

In the Middle Ages, ginger was the second most highly traded spice after pepper.

• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar • 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons ground ginger • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

Ginger was first cultivated in Southeast Asia and has been used in medicines and cooking recipes for thousands of years.

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Directions

In 1565, ginger became the first Oriental spice to be cultivated in the Caribbean.

Carved wooden molds were used to shape gingerbread into fancy works of art, sometimes decorated with real gold in addition to icing.

Combine sugar and butter, blend with an electric mixer on low speed. Add eggs and molasses, mix well.

In a second bowl, sift flour and stir in the ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Gradually combine the dry flour mix to the butter mixture.

Dark, spicy gingerbread loaves like Polish “piernik” are another way to make gingerbread. The American version is sometimes made with a lemon or orange glaze.

There are competitions around the world that celebrate the most beautiful and elaborate gingerbread houses.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Allow the dough to soften at room temperature. Take about 1/2 cup of dough at a time and roll onto a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.

Cut gingerbread with cookie cutters.

You can reroll the scraps. Place cookies onto cookie sheets lined with parchment paper, about 1 inch apart.

When ginger became more affordable, it was sold in many shapes at markets and fairs.

Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until just beginning to brown at the edges. Place on wire rack to cool before decorating.

Gingerbread houses Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century. The gingerbread house may have been inspired by the edible house in Grimm’s fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel,” or the Brothers Grimm may have been inspired by gingerbread houses. Like the Christmas tree, gingerbread houses were brought to North America by early German settlers.

•1/4 cup molasses

• 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

Official gingerbread-baking guilds were established across Europe in the Middle Ages.

Way back when

Ginger was an expensive spice, so it was used sparingly and often only during religious celebrations like Christmas or Easter.

Ingredients

Nuremberg, Germany, is called the gingerbread capital of the world.

Scandinavians make a thin, crisp, ginger cookie called “pepparkakor.”

The ancient Chinese cultivated ginger and used it as a medicine for upset stomach and other ills.

The ancient Egyptians and Romans used ginger to flavor their foods. Ginger traveled the Silk Road to the Middle East and made its way to Europe in the 10th century.

Various cookie-cutter shapes can be used to make this recipe for 18 to 24 cookies.

Decorating

Round icing tip Perfect for dots, outlines and icicles.

Decorating gingerbread cookies and houses takes some practice, but special icing tips and icing bags can make the job easier.

Decorating kits may be found at many craft and cooking shops.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 20, 2015

Sunday Times Magazine 23

World Times

A

34-year-old slice of fruit cake is set to sell for some US$4,000 because it is from the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

Despite its age, says the Daily Record UK, the cake has been perfectly preserved thanks to the high level of alcohol in it and is still edible but its value comes from the fact that it is still intact.

A note accompanying the presentation box reads: A woman holds a piece of wedding cake from the wedding “With best wishes from of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in 1981 Their Royal Highnesses, The just cannot get enough of the late Princess.”

Prince & Princess of Wales”.

“Alcohol has preserved the cake makIncredibly, it is now set to sell for ing it still edible, although collectors would US$4,000 - around £2,600 - at Nate D. rather it remain intact. Collectors are willSanders auctioneers. ing to pay a premium to own a piece of hisSam Heller, from the auction house, said: tory from the most famous wedding of the “The wedding of Lady Diana and Prince 20th century.”

Charles captured the attention of the world The auction will be held in Los Angeles, on television and through many newspapers Thursday. and magazines…And even today, people

A

high school diploma is the culmination of years of education which has readied students for the outside world.

But one eagle-eyed teen spotted an embarrassing typo on this certificate. The certificate is written with grand fonts declaring that Yankton School in South Dakota has certified the holder to enable them to graduate.

But the print on the image, as shared on Reddit by user Legoation clearly shows:

“Principal is spelled wrong on my high school diploma.”

Beneath the signature of the school’s read, it reads ‘princiipal’, with an extra ‘i’.

The certificate is of some vintage, being dated May 2006, but it clear still struck a chord with users, who have viewed the image more than 2.1million times.

Commenter Etagete said: “At least it’s just a typo and not spelled “Principle”, while Secretariat73 quipped: “Is it a Hiigh School?”

H

orror films really are blood curdling and could be bad for your health, scientists have warned.

A study found watching scary films boosts a blood clotting protein known as Factor VIII. The research published in the Christmas issue of The BMJ suggested using the term ‘bloodcurdling’ to describe feeling extreme fear is justified.

But it also has a serious side as there could be clinical Jack Nicholson in “The Shining”. Fear triggers blood clotting implications - with the pos- ingredients in case of imminent slashing sibility of 18 certificate flicks watching horror, or ‘bloodcurdling’, movies raising the risk of a blood clot by about a was associated with an increase in blood cofifth. agulant factor VIII.” The term ‘bloodcurdling’ dates back to Watching the 2010 supernatural horror medieval times and is based on the con- film “Insidious” raised Factor VIII levels by cept that fear or horror would ‘run the blood an average of over 11 IU/dl (International cold’ or ‘curdle’, or congeal, blood. It is the Unit/decilitre) - a reading that has been first time that scientists have looked to see linked with an increased risk of a venous whether there was any truth in the saying. thrombosis, or blood clot.

The Dutch researchers who set out to asDr Nemeth added: “The underlying biosess whether acute fear can curdle blood say logical mechanism of acute fear associated it poses an important evolutionary benefit - with an increase in coagulation activity is by preparing the body for blood loss during still to be unravelled. Although it’s not imlife threatening situations. mediately obvious by which means our reThey recruited 24 healthy volunteers sults could confer clinical benefits, a broader aged 30 or younger - all students, alum- implication of these study results is that afni and employees of the Leiden University ter centuries the term ‘bloodcurdling’ in litMedical Centre - with 14 assigned to watch erature is justified. a frightening film followed by a non-threat“In young and healthy adults, watching ening educational movie and the others bloodcurdling movies is associated with an viewing them in reverse order. increase in blood coagulant factor VIII withDr Banne Nemeth said: “We found out actual thrombin formation.”

A

Brain Teaser Answer

1. Joy to the World 2. Little Drummer Boy 3. I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas

SUDOKU

4. Deck the Halls 5. Oh Christmas Tree

KID SUDOKU

Digital artwork of a Near Earth Asteroid above the planet

colossal asteroid so big some claim its gravitational pull could cause earthquakes and volcanoes on Earth is set to skim past the planet on Christmas Eve. The 1.5 mile wide slab of space rock - known as 2003 SD220 - is so large it could potentially wipe out a continent in the case of a direct hit.

This monster asteroid is one of 17 being closely monitored by NASA and other astronomy experts, due to its proximity to earth.

Scientists now believe this asteroid, and some others, could be even bigger than calculated as it is thought part of their mass may have been shrouded in darkness.

A NASA report said: “We propose radar imaging, physical characterisation, and orbit refinement of our 17 highestpriority NEAs [near-Earth asteroids] for the calendar year 2015 using 294 hours.

The asteroid will miss Earth by 6.7 million miles but experts are concerned that the effect known as Yarkovsky drift could alter its orbit, reports the Express.

CROSSWORD

T

he Swedish arm of charity ActionAid has released an album of Christmas carols, as sung (a word the abc.net.au uses very, very loosely here) by goats, called “All I Want for Christmas is a Goat”.

The goats’ bleats, baas and screams are cut to the tunes of O Holy Night, Jingle Bells, Joy to the World and other Christmas album stalwarts.

The goat-sung carols are not exactly easy listening, but they are for a good cause: to raise awareness of the impact goats can have on families in areas of great

poverty.

“A Christmas album is of

course something we do with a twinkle in our eye, while

The goats ‘sing’ “Joy to the World”, among other Christmas carol favourites

we want to show how important a goat can be for people living in poverty,” ActionAid Sweden collection manager Miriam Isaksson said.

“A goat could be the fresh start that a family needs to take the first step out of poverty.

“Goats survive in harsh climates where it is too dry to grow crops, they are easy to breed and give vital milk, just to name a few examples.”

There’s no need to hoof it to a music store to pick up a copy of the album — it is available on iTunes, Google Play and Amazon.

24

Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 20, 2015

Fun Times

Archie

Don't let uncertainty get you down. There are things (March 21you can do to position yourself April 19) for future advancement. Keep your emotions under control in order to avoid a spat.

ARIES

Take on whatever chalTAURUS lenge comes your way. You (April 20are best off clearing up any May 20) pressing matters now. People will listen and make valuable contributions. Romance will ease your stress.

GEMINI Take your time and gather (May 21- the facts. Don't rely on someJune 20) one who is pushy or prone to exaggeration. You will find bargains if you are willing to compromise.

Family gatherings or time spent with children will (June 21July 22) warm your heart. Share your thoughts and make suggestions in order to be looked upon as a hero. Someone you love will surprise you.

CANCER

Dilbert

LEO Get out and have fun or (July 23- travel to places that will allow Aug. 22) you to enjoy the festive season with friends, relatives or loved ones. A change of location will do you good.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Update your image in order to look your best for the upcoming events and activities. You'll impress someone you want to get to know better. Love is in the stars.

Get your paperwork in orLIBRA der and document what is (Sept. 23happening in your life. Taking Oct. 23) time to re-evaluate your situation will help you make choices that will lead to improvement.

Peanuts

Get involved in organizaSCORPIO tions or events that will help (Oct. 24Nov. 22) your community. Giving time and effort will inspire you to take time to pursue the endeavors that bring you the most joy.

Get into the festive spirit.

SAGITTARIUS Decorate your home and in(Nov. 23vite friends over. Your hospiDec. 21) tality will help you recognize who is taking advantage of you and who is not.

Calvin and Hobbes

Do something that will CAPRICORN make you happy. A present or (Dec. 22indulgence will get you in the Jan. 19) mood for upcoming events.

Travel and shopping will go well if you are organized.

Romance is encouraged.

Visiting familiar places AQUARIUS (Jan. 20- will help you assess your curFeb. 19) rent situation and give you suggestions that will help put some of the fun and laughter back into your life.

Your ideas are good, but PISCES (Feb. 20- you are still going to face opMarch 20) position if you seek approval. A secretive approach to your plans will ensure you get things done on time.