Sunday Times Magazine

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Times April 27, 2014

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine

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Times Focus

INSIDE Over 49 years of aiding the development of our nation

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he collection of rainfall data was the only hydrometeorological information that The Doppler Radar facility at the Cheddi commenced in late 19th century. This Jagan International was done under the auspices of Crown Agents. Airport improves weather Beginning in the 20th century, other parame- monitoring and forecasting ters were recorded and these were collected by a number of ministries, sugar estates and private citizens.

It was recognised that a more holistic and coordinated approach would be most beneficial to the country and the international community. Thus a proposal was made by ECLAC for an expert William Peterson from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to coordinate activities and to develop a proposal for the creation of a new entity. He worked with a committee comprising of representatives from the Ministry of Communication, Ministry of Forest, Lands and Mines, Ministry of Works and Hydraulics, Booker Tate Estates, Demerara Bauxite Ltd and other stake holders.

The committee recommended that portfolios of meteorology and hydrology held respectively by the Ministry of Communication and Ministry of Works and Hydraulics, be cancelled and that a portfolio of hydrometeorology be established as a department in the Ministry of Works and Hydraulics.

On 5 October 1965, at the 50th Meeting of Cabinet, approval was given to establish a central hydrometeorological service within the government structure of the then British Guiana.

It was envisaged that the department’s general responsibilities were to monitor and evaluate weather and water resources in Guyana. These responsibilities grew in the early 70s to include aeronautical forecasting and later included agriculture meteorology, hydrological engineering and other aspects related to sustainable economic development of the country.

The office was housed at Fort Street Kingston from 1965 until 1991 when it was transferred to the Ministry of Agriculture after an evaluation of its relevance. Ken Potter was appointed the first Chief Hydrometeorological Officer. Under his direction the Hydromet Service developed logical, oceanographic and meteorological sciences and the rapidly into a well coordinated and dynamic entity with a solid development of a comprehensive description and scientific uncore of professional personnel. Since the service formation there derstanding of Guyana's weather, climate and water resources; have been six confirmed Heads of Department (Potter, John provision of hydrological, meteorological, oceanographic and reBassier, Chander Persaud, Sheik Khan and Dilip Jaigopaul) lated data, information, forecasts, warnings, investigation and and quite a number of supporting staff. advisory services on a national, as well as international basis; The Hydrometeorological Service is a department attached to and coordination of Guyana's involvement in regional and inMinistry of Agriculture. This department’s general responsibiliternational hydrology, meteorology, oceanography and related ty is to monitor and evaluate the weather and water resources in conventions.

Guyana and to actively support the government in disaster risk Significant milestones since 1965 include the establishmanagement and aeronautical, water, agriculture, engineering ment of the Aeronautical Meteorology Section in 1971 (Weather and other agencies for the socio-economic development of the Forecasting Office as it commonly referred to) at Timehri. R country. It is the official provider of weather, water and climate Lalbeharry, Specialist Meteorologist, and Frassinetti, who was information, and related products and services for Guyana. a UNDP-sponsored expert, were instrumental in its formaThe department’s activities include observation and data tion. This section operates 24 hours daily and provides local collection to meet the needs of future generations for reliable, and international aviation forecasts and daily forecasts for the homogeneous national climatological, hydrological and oceanoGuyanese public. Today, this section has been expanded to the graphic data; research directed to the advancement of hydroNational Weather Watch Centre located at Hyde Park.

Then there is the installation of Automatic weather station at the first weather radar at Timehri in Copenam, Region Five, which was 1971. This radar well functioned uncommissioned last year in celebration of World Meteorological Day til the late 1980s (until replacements parts become a challenge to find in the international market). The Hydromet Service then competed with Caribbean neighbours for this Doppler radar was not easy task. The service retired heads of department (Khan and Jaigopaul) and few colleagues at Caribbean Meteorological Council lobbied and dil-

Caiman House’s ‘headstarting’ turtle programme still going strong Pg 4

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Burrowes School of Art’s tutors

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igently worked to ensure Guyana benefited from one of the four radars. Their persistence finally bore fruit in December 2003 when an MOU was signed between Guyana and CARIFOURM resulting in the installation of the current S band Doppler Weather Radar, which was commissioned on 5 October 2009. It was funded by the European Union, implemented by Caribbean Meteorological Organization in Trinidad, and supported by government of Guyana. The government also contributed approximately $100 million dollars on this project.

With the expansion of the monitoring network, there is a need to ensure that there is adequate and proper storage of one of the Hydromet Service’s most valuable resources, which is hydrometeorological data. On 5 August, 2011, the Hydrometeorological Service launched the NWIS, which is a composite web database that allowed for the integration of the service’s existing climatological and hydrological databases. Combining these two databases has allowed for the easy comparison of data and trends that can facilitate enhanced decision making and planning for stakeholders of the department.

To date, the Hydrometeorological Service produces a Farmer’s Weather Bulletin, which is disseminated on a monthly basis. The yearly hydromet calendar also consists of monthly forecast for each administrative region of the country, which aid in assisting farmers in their decision making.

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Times Sunday Magazine

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Feature

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he first hatchlings from this year's batch of 348 eggs began to emerge earlier this month at the Caiman House in the Rupununi. The headstarting programme is still going strong in its third year.

While travelling up or down the Rupununi river one may only get a glimpse of Podocnemis unifilis sunbathing before it plunges into the water from its riverside perch. As a juvenile it is quickly identifiable with its yellow spotted head. Often referred to as ‘side-necked’, this turtle cannot pull in its head fully into its shell and therefore turns it head to the side to protect itself.

It is classified on the IUCN Red List as “vulnerable” and in the Rupununi region there is little question as to why.

To a degree, its conservation in the region hinges on the fact of how good it tastes, whether it’s the scrumptious turtle porridge in the Christmas season or roasted eggs during their nesting season. These turtles have to navigate the waters very carefully in order to not find themselves on the local menu.

from raiding the nests.

Another conservation and management tool that has been proven successful for river turtles all over South America is called “headstarting”.

In headstarting, a small percentage of wild hatchlings are collected and raised in a protected environment. With access to plenty of food and protection from predators, the turtles grow fast and their shells harden. When they reach a certain size, they are released back into the river. Since they are larger than their wild counChildren in the Rupununi actively participate in the programme

In Yupukari, a team of local villagers, with the support of a visiting volunteer, took it upon themselves to start monitoring the local situation. To better plan the methods for their project, the team got in touch with expert Samantha James to hear more about similar efforts carried out by groups in Rewa in the north Rupununi and Dadanawa in the south.

The team would camp out on the Rupununi River to monitor turtle nesting in their preferred nesting hab-

itat- sandbanks along the river. Each morning the team would visit different sandbanks to look for turtle tracks and nests. When a nest was found, it is very carefully excavated. The eggs are counted, depth of the nest measured, and the distance of the nest to the river was measured in addition to a dozen other data points. After the team collects all the necessary data, the eggs are put back in the nest, and the nest is covered with mesh to prevent Tegu lizards and iguanas

terparts, they have a higher survival rate and increased chances of reaching reproductive age.

Future plans for turtle monitoring in Yupukari include the expansion of the monitoring area, work with neighbouring communities in the watershed, and realising a funding method to sustain what is proving to be a locally positive monitoring programme.

For more information on this monitoring programme, visit the Rupununi Learners page on Facebook.

Yellow-Spotted River Turtle babies being monitored

Yellow-Spotted River Turtle found along the Rupununi River in the Kanuku Mountains

Eggs nestled in sand

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine 5

Times Women

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uyanese born Dr Karen KingAribisala is the daughter of the late Dr Kenneth and Joyce Miller King. Her father was the former minister of economic development and Guyana's ambassador to the European Union.

King-Aribisala is a writer married to a Nigerian, and a professor of English at University of Lagos, Nigeria. Two of her published works, “Our Wife and Other Stories”, and “The Hangman's Game”won the Commonwealth Writer's Prize, Best First Book for African Region in 1991, and the Best Book Africa in 2008 respectively.

Her inspiration was her very influential father. He was instrumental in determining the course the writer’s life has taken. At the age of eight, King-Aribisala first began writing creatively, and would read the stories she had written to him. Her father would comment on them and encourage her. As she grew up, her family came to live in

Nigeria. That was about the time of the Nigerian Civil War. They lived in Ibadan and she attended the International School, Ibadan. During the holidays her father would teach her particular parts of the Bible, particular books of poems by heart. They discussed poems together. All of these helped to encourage King-Aribisala to write.

The writer’s passion for writing originated largely from growing up as an outsider in many of the places she lived in. Whether it is in Nigeria, the West Indies, Italy where she met her husband as a teenager, she has always been an outsider, somebody who was not born in that particular place. This has led to her trying to understand the position of the outsider, whether it’s in terms of gender, religion, race, culture.

In explaining the aim of her writing, she stated: “…There are several messages. In ‘Our Wives’ the title story deals with this African concept that when you are married into a fam-

Guyanese writer Karen King-Aribisala

ily you become the wife of the family. Meeting somebody like me who has been trained in Western institutions, this is an appalling idea because it means that you lose your identity and you become swallowed up by a larger family. So, I tried to explore that in that story, and to show what I’ve said in other interviews, which is that, to me, nation, race, culture, class are all dresses which we put on, in fact, out of pride. These dresses disguise the bare, core truth of humanity – things like pride, things like selfishness which prevent us from occupying the extended family, if you like, to which we all belong. It’s okay to be individual, to say that you are a Nigerian, West Indian, or whatever.

But often these are barriers which we use to fight against each other. And so, my position is that all of these barriers should be broken down. And that is actually one of the thrusts in my book ‘Kicking Tongues’.”

The author skilfully uses the vehicle of literature to examine the African West Indian, African American and African notions of slavery and imprisonment; to analyze the aspired nature of destination freedom.

The conflicts expressed in her texts are essentially a clash between the material and spiritual worlds in the attainment of material or spiritual freedom. She believes it is a struggle in which all humanity is engaged.

Her book ‘The Hangman's Game’ was long-listed for the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award.

King-Aribisala is the recipient of numerous awards from many institutions such as the Ford Foundation, the Commonwealth Foundation and the British Council.

She has received grants and fellowships such as the James Mitchener West Indian Writer's scholarship and fellowship. She has represented Nigeria as a poet in Rome and in Italy at poetry Festival, ‘ROMAPOESIA’. She has also been awarded artist’s residencies at the prestigious MacDowell Colony and Djerrassi Foundation

Reading an excerpt from her book 'The Hangman's Game'

in the US; a residency at the Camargo Foundation

in France where she performed her poetry at the in-

auguration of the Mayor of Cassiss.

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine 7

Times Feature

Five Social Media Tips for Young Professionals

Star of the week

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ocial media is a fantastic tool if you’re entering the job market for the first time. It provides unique opportunities for networking, which leads to interviews and other professional opportunities for countless social media users. But if not used correctly, it can also be a downfall. Here are five tips to managing social media for young professionals: 1. Live a life that is “Light, Bright and Polite” so you won’t be afraid of anything you do or say being public.

Everything becomes public eventually. If you strive to live a life that is “Light, Bright and Polite”, you won’t ever have to worry about your privacy settings on Facebook, the thought that your boss might see what you posted won’t keep you up at night.

2. Conduct a “social media sweep” every month.

Un-tag yourself from any photos that do not portray you in a positive and professional light. Check your social media footprint on a monthly basis. Log out of your various online accounts and then search yourself to see what others see when they look for you. Even if you think your Facebook page is private, you might be surprised what someone who isn’t your friend can find out about you. For example, oftentimes, the things you “like” on Facebook are not private. The pages you like say a lot about you. Clean up your profile and remove any unprofessional posts, pictures and/or tags immediately.

3. Make sure your profile picture is professional.

This is public regardless of your privacy settings.

When someone searches you on Google, they will see your Facebook profile picture. Keep it classy, and make sure your Facebook profile picture is something that you would be proud of your boss showing in a meeting.

4. Consider your Facebook page your live resume.

Would you print out a copy of your profile and hand it to a prospective employer? Are you proud of the posts on your social media profile? Will you be proud if someone else, such as your current or prospective future employer sees it? Always remember that even if you delete things, it might not be gone forever. Google, Facebook and other companies keep a footprint of everything. Once it’s posted online, you should expect that it is out there forever, and that your employer will be able to see it somehow, even if you delete it. It’s always better to err on the side of caution than to be embarrassed about that picture you posted during a night of partying.

5. Find an honest friend or loved one who will take a look at your social media profiles and tell you what you should remove.

Find someone who cares more about you than they do hurting your feelings; someone who has your best interest in mind and will be bluntly honest with you.

Ask them “Please find 3 photos that you think I should remove” and then seriously consider taking those down.

Thank them for their input and then use those pictures as a framework for what not to post in the future. This may sting, but it will be a great learning lesson that helps you improve your footprint.

Social media is a valuable tool, but it should not replace face-to-face conversation. Always strive to keep your social media presence “Light, Bright and Polite”. If you have frustrations or concerns, don’t air it online for all to see. Instead, pick up the phone and call a BFF or friend to tell them in a phone conversation (or better yet, via coffee).

Likewise, look for opportunities to take your networking offline. Use social media to make quick connections with other professionals, but if you limit your networking to social media alone, it will be difficult to make these meaningful relationships with new contacts.

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Kevin Kowlessar

etermined to etch his name among the greats of the local music industry, Kevin Kowlessar, known popularly as “Prince”, is currently making waves in the music arena in Berbice. The 19-year-old who hails from Hopetown, West Coast Berbice, is a University of Guyana student pursuing a degree in public management. He first started recording songs in 2014.

The singer uses his music for self-expression and to tell his story to the world. The rap/hip hop artiste has recorded over 15 songs, some of which are collaboration with a local group he formed called ‘Calipack’. Not only is Kevin a singer and songwriter, but he also is an avid dancer and is part of a local dance group called ‘Street Beat’. The singer’s future plans are to continue to develop his music and to become an international artiste.

8 Times Sunday Magazine

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Kids Page

Creature Corner

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Did you know?

Giant Squid

he giant squid is massive and when full grown can be at least 33 feet (10 meters) long. These mysterious eight-armed creatures are rarely seen by humans. Most of what we know about them comes from finding them washed up on beaches. The largest of these hard-to-find giants ever found measured 59 feet (18 meters) in length and weighed nearly a ton (900 kilograms).

In 2004, researchers in Japan took the first images ever of a live giant squid.

And in late 2006, scientists with Japan's National Science Museum caught and brought to the surface a live 24-foot (7-meter) female giant squid.

Giant squid, along with their cousin, the colossal squid, have beach ball size eyes! Their eyes are the largest eyes in the animal kingdom and are about 10 inches (25 centimetres) in diameter. Their big eyes help them see better underwater! They are able to spy objects in dark depths where most other animals would see nothing.

Like other squid species, they have eight arms and two longer whip-like tentacles that help them bring food to their beak-like mouths. Their diet likely consists of fish, shrimp, and other squid, and some suggest they might even attack and eat small whales.

They manoeuvre their massive bodies with fins that seem too small for the rest of their bodies. They use their funnel as a propulsion system, drawing water into the mantle, or main part of the body, and forcing it out the back.

Scientists don't know enough about these beasts to say for sure what their range is, but giant squid carcasses have been found by fishermen in all of the world's oceans.

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he scientific name for the giant squid is Architeuthis dux.

Giant squid are carnivores.

Giant squid leave sucker mark scars on mouths of whales as they try to avoid being swallowed.

A full grown giant squid is usually about 33 feet (10 meters) long. A giant squid would reach the water if held from the top of an Olympic diving platform!

Giant squid can weigh about 440 pounds (200 kilograms) A giant squid's lidless eye can be as big as a dinner plate or a beach ball.

Giant squid can change colours.

They are the biggest invertebrates on Earth.

Dot-to-Dot The objective of the game is to fill all the blank squares in a game with the correct numbers. Every row of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Every column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Every 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.

please see solution on page 22

Spot the Differences

Maze

10 Times Sunday Magazine

APRIL 27, 2014

Times Fashion

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esigner Marcie De Santos’ collection was a show-stopper at the recently held New York Fashion Week Fall/ Winter 2014, one of the world’s premier fashion weeks.

The runway show featured renowned designers such as Michael Costello, winner of Project Runway All Stars 2012, and Leanne Marshall, Project Runway contestant, and other international designers.

Marcie’s collection aptly named ‘Autumn Fiesta’, since it brought a bright, happy, playful Caribbean aesthetic to the season, received rave feedback from organisers and viewing public alike, which included several celebrities. She was immediately invited by the show’s organisers to return to participate in the New York Fashion Week Spring/ Summer 2015 to be held in September 2014.

The Guyanese designer counts her participation in the New York Fashion Week as one of the best moments of her career. The recognition of her work and feedback received has proven that she is capable of holding her own on the international fashion scene.

Marcie started designing over five years ago. She always had a passion for unique clothes, so she started by designing for herself and soon realised that she had a flair for designing.

She specialises in cotton and linen garments, enhanced by unique and exquisite fabric painting. She prides herself in the uniqueness of the colour blends she uses. Her target is mainly women whose desire is to exude femininity in unique, exuberant, eye-catching styles.

The Guyana Fashion Week (GFW) 2008 was her debut runway show where she presented her line ‘Contours’, which won her the award for the most promising designer. She continued to impress at GFW 2009 with her line ‘Mosaique’ and in 2010 with ‘Rhapsody in Grey’.

In 2009, Marcie was a member of the Guyana’s delegation led by CEO and founder of GFW, acclaimed designer Sonia Noel that participated in 13th Ningbo International Fashion in Ningbo, China, one of the biggest fashion and trade fairs worldwide.

In 2011, she showcased her talent regionally through participation at the USVI Fashion Week, and the Bridgetown Barbados Fashion Weekend in October, and in the Antigua and Barbuda Fashion Weekend in November.

April of the following year saw her participating in the Tobago Fashion Weekend. Her work received excellent feedback at all regional runway shows.

Her applauded line, ‘Evolution’, debuted at the Tobago Fashion Week 2013. This line was later showcased at the Dominicana Moda 2013 in the Dominican Republic, through the sponsorship and support of Caribbean Export.

Despite her schedule and the competitive nature of the fashion design business, Marcie ensures that she finds time to give back; she is a permanent fixture in various charity shows and events organised by the GFW. Marcie is currently the treasurer of the recently formed Guyana Fashion Design Council, which is gearing to significantly move the Guyana fashion industry forward.

Currently, she is busily preparing her collection for her next runway show in September.

For more information, visit MARSAE by: Marcie De Santos on Facebook.

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

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ichael Bakari Jordan is an American actor. He is best known for his roles as teenage drug dealer Wallace on “The Wire”, Reggie Montgomery in “All My Children”, Vince Howard on “Friday Night Lights”, and Alex in “Parenthood”. In 2013, he played shooting victim Oscar Grant in the critically acclaimed film “Fruitvale Station”. Jordan has been contracted to play The Human Torch in the upcoming 2015 film “The Fantastic Four”. Most recently he co-starred in “That Awkward Moment” alongside Zac Efron and Miles Teller. He also played the character Pretty Boy Flizzy in the season four premiere of ‘The Boondocks’.

12 Times Sunday Magazine

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APRIL 27, 2014

Times Hollywood

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he ‘Big Bang Theory’ is a monster TV hit - but it could be about to go all ‘How I Met Your Mother’ on us and finish.

A showrunner for the programme, which stars Kaley Cuoco, told The Hollywood Reporter that even though the hugely successful CBS show (which is shown on E4 in the UK) has been renewed for three more seasons, the 10th series could be the last time we see Penny, Sheldon and co.

Steve Molaro said "I'm going to move forward (on the assumption) that ten is the end unless we're told otherwise".

He added that he would be "okay" with the show ending in 2017, and that even

though there was no official end date as of yet, it was all about knowing when to quit the show: "My concern is that we do it right and we end this show in a way that is as befitting of these characters that we respect and love...As long as we can have the opportunity to end it in a way that serves them all properly, that's my concern more than the number of seasons."

Bad news for Big Bang Theory fans.

However, there are some exciting developments planned for the characters (including "many more marriage proposals") which makes this news not all doom and gloom - plus we have three more years of the show to enjoy. (Glamour)

iley Cyrus is one lucky lady - she has the awesome Dolly Parton for a Godmother.

And her Godmother is dishing out some sage advice in her entry for Cyrus in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People issue.

While others, like Sheryl Sandberg on Beyoncé, were a little more gushy in the magazine, Dolly keeps her cool and offers some tips to Miley.

She begins, "If I didn't know how smart and talented Miley is, I might worry about her", before adding that she "knows what she's doing".

She then goes on to explain why Miley went from Disney teen queen to twerking popstrel: "She was very proud of the work she did as Hannah Montana, but people were gonna leave her there forever. And she was just smotherin' and chokin' in it. So she

felt she had to do something completely drastic. And she did...She made her point, she made her mark, and more power to her."

But then things take a more warning tone, as Dolly says she's "hoping that now she can relax and show people how talented she really is" adding "'Cause the girl can write. The girl can sing.

The girl is smart".

Her parting shot? That she will "respect" Miley's choices, but she "doesn't have to be so drastic".

Translation: Miley has made her point and broken free from her old image, but now, I'm hoping she focuses on making great music rather than shocking people. Can Dolly be our Godmother, please? We want her looking out for us. (Glamour)

Carrie Underwood makes Time's list of 100 Most Influential People

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arrie Underwood has already earned legions of friends and fans in Nashville and beyond, but according to Time magazine, the Grammy winner's reach extends far past American pop culture.

The singer, 31, is among a host of leaders, humanitarians and entertainment heavyweights – including Pope Francis, Pakistani human rights advocate Malala Yousafzai, Russian president Vladimir Putin and Beyoncé – named to this year's illustrious Time 100, the magazine's annual list of the most influential people in the

world. The Time 100, in its 11th year, focuses on "figures whose influence is likely to grow, so we can look around the corner to see what is coming," the magazine writes.

Each of the magazine's honorees is profiled by a guest contributor; Underwood's bit is by friend – and regular CMA Awards cohost – Brad Paisley, who says the starlet's career achievements are just part of what makes her special.

"It's her decency as a person that's so impressive," he writes, noting that not only can she "sing the fire out of a song and tell a joke," but that she's devoted to causes like the Red Cross and animal rights. "So many young girls want to be just like her. In that sense, I see hope for the world. If I had a daughter, nothing would make me happier than to hear her say she wanted to grow up to be like Carrie Underwood."

The singer, who will also perform at the Time 100 Gala in New York on Tuesday, told PEOPLE Country in 2010 that she hoped her own influence would stretch beyond her many awards and No. 1s.

"The legacy I want to leave is to the people who know me best – to my family, to people whose lives I've been a part of," she said. "I hope they can take something away from that, not just musically – set all of that aside. My parents were a good example to me and I want to be a good example to somebody." (People)

Justin Bieber detained by customs in LA

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ustin Bieber returned from Asia to find that re-entering the U.S. would not be easy.

The singer was detained at Los Angeles International Airport by U.S. Customs officials Thursday.

A source tells PEOPLE that Bieber was detained "for routine secondary questioning" but was not being kept out of the United States.

Bieber, 20, had reportedly been held for almost four hours inside Tom Bradley International Terminal after flying in from Tokyo while his entourage waited for him, but he was eventually released, according to E! News.

The pop star's DUI arrest and assault charges have prompted a petition to repeal the Canadian singer's green card.

The White House Monday said they would not comment on the petition, which has almost than 274,000 signatures.

"Sorry to disappoint, but we won't be

commenting on this one," reads the statement, which then went on to discuss larger immigration issues.

Immigration experts have said that Bieber is unlikely to be deported. (People)

K

ashish Singh is an Indian actress and model who has appeared in regional films and is on the verge of making her Bollywood debut. In January 2014, she was featured on the cover page of Hindi Filmfare Magazine. Kashish completed her acting course from Anupam Kher’s acting academy, Actor Prepares.

She went on to be featured in various print ads for big brands like Stayfree, Dabur, Fair & Lovely, Siemens and many more. Kashish has also modelled for Domestic and International Fashion Catalogues. In July, 2012 she was featured in the promotional song of the super-hit Punjabi movie, “Carry on Jatta” with Gippy Grewal. It is reported that the actress has been signed by Kumar Taurani (Tips) for his next Bollywood venture. Her current assignments include a Punjabi film “Yaarana” opposite Yuvraj Hans.

guyanatimesgy.com APRIL 27, 2014

Star Times Bollywood

Times Sunday Magazine 13

14 Times Sunday Magazine

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April 27, 2014

Times Bollywood

Varun Dhawan: 'I am Priyanka Chopra launches new single staying away from P girls as much as I can'

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arun Dhawan has said that he will not date an actress.

The star claimed his own life as an actor is complicated enough as it is.

Speaking to The Hindustan Times he said: "I feel that since I am an actor myself and I am crazy and volatile enough, what would two crazy and volatile people do together? We will set fire to the world or something (smiles). I would say this even before I became an

actor."

The actor, who has already acquired a strong fan base after just two films, said he wants to concentrate on his career.

"Right now, I am staying away from girls as much as I can. They are a distraction," he said. "I am in the process of starting possibly the toughest film (Sriram Raghavan's untitled next) I've got so far. Due to the kind of preparation required for the role, I need to stay

away from such things."

"No one wants to stay alone. Although, right now, I don't know (if I'm ready).

Maybe I'm not in the headspace of exploring the possibilities," he added.

Meanwhile, the 27-yearold said the success of Main Tera Hero has been a rewarding experience.

"Honestly, a lot of people thought it wouldn't do well.

But for me, it was a very big thing to do well in a film directed by my father and, more importantly, a comedy.

So, it's a very satisfying experience.

Varun, who is the son of famed director David Dhawan, said he has always been a fan of his father's films.

"I'd watch all of them and enjoy them a lot. His films with Govinda were great.

According to me, that was the most 'dhamaal' (enjoyable) phase (in the industry). Since then, no one has consistently made good comedies. As for the pressure, I used to feel it earlier, but I think those talks stopped when I made my debut with a Karan Johar film."

Varun Dhawan stars next with Alia Bhatt in “Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania”.

(Hindustan Times)

riyanka Chopra has launched her latest track 'I Can't Make You Love Me'.

The film actress's third single after 'In My City' and 'Exotic' is a revamped cover of the Bonnie Raitt ballad which was released in 1991.

She stated (via Bollywood Life): "[Raitt] is one of the people why I became a singer.

"My cover is really different because the original is

a ballad and we have used dance music for my version of the song."

In an interview with Digital Spy last year, Chopra said that her album would be a mix of East and West, reflecting her Indian roots and her formative years in the US. 'Exotic', which features rapper Pitbull, received more than 30 million hits on YouTube and was a number one on iTunes. (Digital Spy)

Ranveer Singh becomes jeans brand ambassador

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anveer Singh has been announced as a brand ambassador for Roadster.

The Bollywood actor revealed his tie-up with the jeanswear brand, which is sold through online retailers Myntra. Singh said: "I have always been very selective when it comes to brand associations because I believe that who you associate with says a lot about you.

"Roadster is a brand I took a liking to instantly, the clothes are wonderful and are more than real value for the price point they are pitched.

"Most importantly however, I subscribe to its philosophy of not being bound

to any societal norms and I'm really looking forward to doing some great work with Roadster as we continue ahead on the journey."

The star recently unveiled a safe sex music video 'Do The Rex' as part of promotions for Durex condoms.

Vikas Ahuja, Chief Marketing Officer of Myntra, added: "Ranveer's powerpacked and unconventional persona makes him the ideal choice for Roadster."

Singh is currently in the US for his performance at the IIFA awards. (Digital Spy)

Kangana Ranaut: ‘I'll not act all my life’

W

ith a critically acclaimed movie, Queen, under her belt and another release, Revolver Rani, coming up, Kangana Ranaut is on a roll right now. But the actor wants to take it easy.

She’s looking forward to doing more quality cinema and isn’t worried about the competition anymore.

"I want to work with actors like Aamir Khan and Irrfan Khan. I feel that I should collaborate with talented people and make the most of my limited time as an actor. I know for a fact that I’m not going to be acting all my life," says Kangana.

She also recently took a

screenplay writing course in New York, US. So, does that mean she’s branching out? "I will eventually want to get to writing and directing," she says.

Kangana also wants to find a healthy work-life bal-

ance and says she’s ready to date someone cool. "I need to move away (from my work) and have a life. Ideally, I wouldn’t want to do so many movies at a time, but it’s come to such a stage that the movie offers are very tempting. But I’d like to be with someone who understands me," she says.

She’s also not worried about winning the Bollywood rat race. "I want to be in a zone in my life where I feel relaxed. And frankly, I’m getting there already. Who cares about being number one all the time?

I want to do what makes me feel good and keeps me happy and peaceful," she says.

(Hindustan Times)

Salman Khan ‘Kick’ stunt causes panic in Poland

A

stunt for Salman Khan's “Kick” caused locals to contact Polish police in a panic.

According to the Daily Mail, locals saw a London double-decker bus drive off Warsaw's Gdanski Bridge and plunge into the Vistula River below, not realising that it was a stunt staged for the movie.

One onlooker said: "I saw the bus on top of the bridge and wondered what a London Bus was doing in the middle of Warsaw "It didn't move at first but then it started up, and then just drove off and fell into the river. I was completely shocked and had no idea it was part of a film."

The incident was staged as part of a car chase and

saw the bridge closed off at a cost of £15,000.

Production company spokesman Krzysztof Solek from Film Polska Productions said the price of closing the bridge had helped them beat off competition from London and Dublin to stage the scenes in Warsaw.

While police were able to alleviate public concerns, others complained about the inconvenience and the cost of closing the bridge.

One resident said: "They only paid £15,000 to close the bridge off, but how much was lost by people being late for work because of the diversion?"

Angry locals have set up a Facebook group to try to raise an equal amount of

money to hold a mass barbecue on the bridge.

The film is directed by Sajid Nadiadwala and stars Khan.

The actor was earlier mobbed by fans while filming in Warsaw. (Digital Spy)

guyanatimesgy.com

April 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine

15

Times Healthy Living

Anti-Inflammatory Hidden Health Benefits of Foods for Fighting Pain Eating Peels, Stems, Rinds

E

xperts say these anti-inflammatory foods may help you beat pain and find relief.

Cloves

Coffee

F

ood scraps can be packed with nutrients as well as a surprising amount of flavor. Here are six trimmings you should start saving.

circulation.

How to eat it: Throw the rind in a blender with lime and watermelon flesh to make an agua fresca. Add

Celery Tops

Orange Peel

One cup of black coffee can provide relief from headaches and provide more antioxidants than a serving of berries. Preliminary research has also shown that drinking coffee may reduce the risk of some cancers.

Cloves contain an anti-inflammatory chemical called eugenol. In recent studies, this chemical inhibited COX-2, a protein that spurs inflammation (the same protein that so-called COX-2 inhibitor drugs such as Celebrex quash). Cloves also ranked very high in antioxidant properties in one study.

The combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties provides health benefits, from boosting protection from heart disease to helping stave off cancer, as well as slowing the cartilage and bone damage caused by arthritis.

Cherries

Turmeric

Cherries help reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals in the body and can also help to stop tissue inflammation.

Anthocyanins, which give tart cherries their deep red color, have anti-inflammatory properties similar to those in aspirin.

Raspberries and, to a lesser extent, strawberries also contain pain-fighting anthocyanins.

Olive Oil

Studies have linked turmeric to reduced inflammation in a number of conditions, including psoriasis. The chemical responsible for turmeric's golden color, called curcumin, is considered a top anticancer agent, helping to quell the inflammation that contributes to tumor growth and working in much the same way as broccoli and cauliflower to clear carcinogens away before they can damage cellular DNA and to repair already damaged DNA.

Garlic

Garlic has proven anti-inflammatory properties, and could be useful in relieving uncomfortable psoriasis outbreaks.

Pineapple

The peel contains more than four times as much fiber as the fruit inside, and more tangeretin and nobiletin — flavonoids with anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2004 study on animals suggests that these nutrients may even reduce harmful LDL cholesterol better than some prescription drugs.

How to eat it: Grate and sprinkle zest on green beans or asparagus. For dessert, simmer strips in simple syrup and cover in melted dark chocolate.

The leaves are brimming with five times more magnesium and calcium than the stalks. They're also a rich source of vitamin C and phenolics, potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

How to eat them: Finely chop the leaves with parsley and stir into salsa, or use as a garnish on fish or chicken. sugar, rum, gin, or vodka, if desired.

Onion Skins

Watermelon Rind

A USDA study found that the tart white rind offers a high dose of citrulline, an amino acid that helps dilate blood vessels to improve

The Three Worst Foods In Your Fridge

T

rying to eat healthy means stocking your refrigerator with healthy foods.

However, some of the other not-ashealthy refrigerator staples you buy could also be taking up space there.

“If you don’t have it, you’re not going to eat it or use it, it’s as simple as that,” Sarah Krieger, RD and spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association advises in Prevention magazine.

Learn what foods to resist stocking in your fridge.

1. Worst Staple: White Bread

Here's a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient that's comparable to over the counter pain medications. A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil helps reduce the risk of strokes and some cancers.

Ginger

Though scientific data is limited, some experts believe consuming pineapple may defend against osteoarthritis and possibly improve symptoms. The pineapple enzyme bromelain is thought to alleviate swelling associated with osteoarthritis, because this compound has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory research.

2. Worst Sandwich Filler: Processed Meats

Ginger's been used for thousands of years to help with a variety of ailments from stomachaches to heart conditions. This antiinflammatory add-in is excellent on a variety of foods, even tea.

Cinnamon

Used for centuries for a variety of medicinal purposes, green tea is an excellent source of polyphenols which may help to reduce free radicals in the body which can cause inflammation. (Reader’s Digest)

found that people eating a 1.8-ounce serving of processed meat each day had a 42 per cent higher risk of heart disease and 19 per cent higher risk for type 2 diabetes. Other studies have shown that eating cured meats a few times a month puts you at risk for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).A better option would be to just stock your fridge with brands that offer varieties with low sodium and no added nitrates. Or use freshly cooked meats.

3. Worst Drink: Soda or sweet drink

You may think a loaf of white bread is a harmless vehicle for peanut butter or other sandwich fillers. But white bread is made with refined flour, which has been stripped of the bran and the germ (as well as protein and key nutrients). Besides being lower in protein and fibre than whole wheat bread, studies show that these refined grains may even be dangerous to your heart. A better option would be whole grain breads. Be sure that they say 100 per cent whole grains, or chances are, you’re eating caramelized sugar, which gives it that brown, whole-wheat look.

Green Tea

Like many other spices, cinnamon has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it's actually one of the most powerful healing spices, shown to help reduce heartburn and other conditions.

The papery skin contains more antioxidants than the onion itself. It's especially rich in quercetin, which may reduce blood pressure and prevent arterial plaque.

How to eat them: Simmer in stocks, soups, and stews for additional flavor; discard the skins before serving. (www.oprah.com)

Hot dogs and luncheon meats are extremely high in sodium. Many of these foods contain as much as 1,000 mg of sodium per serving (nearly half your daily recommended intake), in addition to saturated fats. Researchers at Harvard University

Your typical can of soda contains about 140 calories and 10 teaspoons of sugar— not exactly the makings of a healthy thirstquencher—and diet soda isn’t any better.

Drinking both regular and diet soda has been linked to adult metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors, including high blood pressure, weight gain in the stomach area, and insulin resistance that increases your odds for developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It’s also not a great drink to have stocked for kids or teenagers. The extra calories from these sugar-sweetened beverages are a big determinant of childhood obesity. There are several better options: water, fresh juice, or iced tea. Just be sure to keep the juice to smaller servings, and limit or use no sugar.

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine 17

Times Sunday Puzzle

For each of the pairs of words below, insert a word in the blank space between them to form two separate words such that the inserted word finishes the first word and begins the second. For example, given "MAN ____ ON", you would insert the word "GO" to form "MANGO" and "GOON". The hint gives the number of letters in each of the words that must be inserted.

WIN ____ HERE DISC ____ AGE TEN ____ OR ANT ____ LOCK SIN ____ SHIP see solution on page 22

see solution on page 22

see solution on page 22

18 Times Sunday Magazine

April 27, 2014

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Creative Writing

L

o n g long ago, in the Deep Sea kingdom, there lived the sea king with his five mermaid daughters.

Sirenetta was the youngest and the loveliest among them. She had a beautiful voice and everybody from far and wide came to hear her sing and praised her voice and her beauty.

One day, while Sirenetta was swimming on the surface of the water and watching ships go by, she saw a young man falling off his ship. She swam swiftly to save him from drowning and dragged him to the shore. Soon, people found the man on the shore and Sirenetta swam away. This man was actually the prince of a kingdom. When he became conscious, the prince looked around for the girl who had saved him but no one knew who she was.

Sirenetta often thought of the young man and fell in love with the prince, but she was sad because she could never be like all the other ladies he knew. They had two feet and she had a fish tail!

In the Deep Sea lived a witch with magical powers. One day, Sirenetta went to beg her for human legs. The witch said, “I need your beautiful voice!

Only then I shall give you legs! But you must remember, every time you set your feet on the ground, it will hurt very badly!” Sirenetta agreed. She did not mind the pain. All she wanted was to be with the prince. As soon as she got her two feet Sirenetta became dumb.

When she was leaving, the witch said,

“If your prince marries anybody else, you shall dissolve in the sea water. You can never become a mermaid again!”

With the witch’s magic spell, Sirenetta found herself lying on the beach and the prince looking down at her. He asked, “Where are you from?”

But she could not reply. The prince took her to his palace and looked after her. They became good friends and had a wonderful time together. Every step Sirenetta took hurt, but she bore it all silently. She loved the prince but the prince was in love with the beautiful maiden who had saved him. The prince did not realise it had been Sirenetta and she couldn’t tell him.

Obeying the wishes of his father, the prince went to meet the daughter of a neighbouring king. Enchanted by her beauty the prince was convinced this was the same maiden who rescued him. He asked the princess to marry him. A grand wedding took place.

Sirenetta was heartbroken. That night, crying she ran to the seashore.

There she saw four mermaids. Why, they were her sisters! One of them

If I were hanged on the highest hill, Mother o' mine, O mother o' mine!

I know whose love would follow me still, Mother o' mine, O mother o' mine! handed her a knife and said, “Here, Sirenetta! This is a magic knife! We gave our long hair locks to the witch of the Deep Sea and she gave this to us in return. Kill your prince and you shall turn into a mermaid again! Then you can come and live with us!”

Sirenetta took the magic knife and went to the prince’s room at night. But she loved him so much that she could not kill him. She knew that at dawn, she would vanish into the sea, just as the witch of the Deep Sea had told her earlier. She sat on the shore and wept silently.

Suddenly, from the sky came a pink cloud. It lifted her from the land into the sky. “Where am I?’ asked Sirenetta, for now she could talk. The beautiful fairies replied, “We are the air fairies. You are now one of us because you did a good deed for the person you love. Come with us.”

From then on, the little mermaid, Sirenetta, lived in the sky with the fairies.

Anansi and the Pot of Wisdom L

ong long ago people didn't know anything. They didn't know how to plant crops, or how to weave clothes, or how to make iron tools. And the god Nyame up in the sky had all the wisdom of the world.

He kept all the wisdom stored up in a clay p o t .

One day Nyame gave the pot with all the wisdom in it to Anansi.

Every time Anansi looked in the clay pot, he learned something new. It was so exciting!

But greedy Anansi thought, "I will keep all this w i s dom to myself. I don't want to share it with eve r y one."

Anansi thought it would be a good idea to keep the pot with the wisdom safe at the top of a tall tree, where nobody else could get it. He braided some vines together into a rope and tied the rope to the clay pot. Then Anansi tied the rope around his waist, so the pot hung down in front of him, and he began to climb the tree.

But it was hard climbing the tree with the pot

bumping him in the knees all the time. Anansi was beginning to be very annoyed and bruised and tired.

All the time Anansi's little son had been standing at the bottom of the tree watching. Suddenly Anansi's son said, "But Dad, wouldn't it be easier to climb if you tied the pot to your back instead?"

Anansi tried tying the clay pot full of wisdom to his back, and it really was a lot easier. In no time he reached the top of the tree. But then he stopped a n d

thought.

"I'm supposed to be the one with all the wisdom, and here this little kid was smarter than me!" Anansi was so angry about this that he threw the clay pot down out of the tree. It smashed into pieces on the ground. Of course all the wisdom got out and flew away all over the world. That is how people learned to farm, and to make clothes, and to make iron, and all the other things that people know how to do.

If I were drowned in the deepest sea, Mother o' mine, O mother o' mine!

I know whose tears would come down to me, Mother o' mine, O mother o' mine!

If I were damned of body and soul, I know whose prayers would make me whole, Mother o' mine, O mother o' mine!

Rudyard Kipling

Sonnets are full of love, and this my tome Has many sonnets: so here now shall be One sonnet more, a love sonnet, from me To her whose heart is my heart’s quiet home, To my first Love, my Mother, on whose knee I learnt love-lore that is not troublesome; Whose service is my special dignity, And she my loadstar while I go and come And so because you love me, and because I love you, Mother, I have woven a wreath Of rhymes wherewith to crown your honored name: In you not fourscore years can dim the flame Of love, whose blessed glow transcends the laws Of time and change and mortal life and death.

Christina Rossetti

Send your creative writing to sundaymagazine@guyanatimesgy.com

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine19

Times World

Ancient Chisel Used to Build Western Wall Found A

2,000-year-old stonemason’s chisel that may have been used in the construction of Jerusalem’s Western Wall has been unearthed at the bottom of the structure along with a number of Second Temple-era objects, claims an Israeili archaeologist.

Some of the artifacts, which include a Roman sword, cooking vessels, a gold bell, coins and a ceramic seal, would suggest the Western Wall, a holy site for both Muslims and Jews, had not been built by King Herod at all.

Eli Shukron, an archaeologist working for the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), found the chisel last summer during a dig near a tunnel at the lower base of the Western Wall.

Also known as the Wailing Wall, the massive structure is venerated by Jews as the sole remnant of their Second Temple,

A

destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D. To the Muslims, the Western Wall is revered as the Wall of Buraq, the place where Muhammad tethered his winged horse Buraq after being transported from Mecca to Jerusalem.

Shukron, who has been working in t h e

it.

“The chisel was found inside rubble of stone chips that fell from the stonemasons working on the rocks comprising the Western Wall,” Shukron told Israel’s daily Haaretz.

About 6 inches long, the meta l tool features a flattened

“They were workers, human beings, who had tools. Today for the first time we can touch a chisel that belonged to one of them,” he added.

According to Haaretz, the IAA has not yet confirmed

area with archaeologist Ronny Reich of the University of Haifa for the past 19 years, believes the chisel fell from a stonemason’s hand as he was working on scaffolding in the higher sections of the wall. The builder did not bother to get down and retrieve

head, as a result of being repeatedly banged on rock.

“People pray and kiss these holy stones every day, but somebody carved them, somebody chiseled them, somebody positioned them,” Shukron was reported as saying.

the finding, but Shukron trusts his findings.

“I have no doubt that it belongs to the time the Wall was built,” he said.

“We found it at the base of the Western Wall, about six me-

n exceptionally bright supernova that baffled scientists has been explained.

It is so luminous because a galaxy sitting in front amplifies its light - making it appear 100 billion times more dazzling than our Sun. This cosmic magnifying glass lay hidden between Earth and the supernova and has now been detected with a telescope in Hawaii.

The discovery, reported in the journal Science, settles an important controversy in the field of astronomy.

In 2010, a team of scientists observed the supernova, PS1-10afx, shining 30 times brighter than any other in its class.

They concluded it was a completely new type of stellar explosion.

But while there are a few, rare supernovas that have been found with comparable luminosities, there was something odd about this one, according to Dr Robert Quimby of the University of Tokyo's Kavli Institute.

"PS1-10afx was different in just about every way. It evolved too fast, its host galaxy is too big, and it was way, way too red," he explained.

His team had another idea. They ventured that PS1-10afx was a normal Type Ia supernova magnified by a lens in the form of a massive object, such as supermassive black hole, nearby.

The only problem: "We had no direct ev-

idence for the lens," said Dr Quimby.

"Thus [our] explanation required a bit of magic... and scientists don't generally buy into magic."

However, he reasoned that if there was a gravitational lens magnifying the supernova, this lens would still be there today - even though the supernova has faded away.

To find it, his team used the Keck telescope in Hawaii to observe PS1-10afx's host galaxy.

"Looking at the spectra we could check to see if there was light coming from two sources at two separate distances, which is what we found," said Dr Quimby.

"There is a second, previously unidentified galaxy, hiding in plain sight in front of the supernova."

The lens galaxy was missed previously because its light was lost in the bright glare of the supernova, the authors say.

"Although the lens galaxy is closer to us, it appears fainter because it has older stars that, like flashlights with old batteries, don't shine as bright," said Dr Quimby.

The Universe was almost a billion years younger when the supernova exploded than when its light rays were bent by the foreground lens.

"Although this warping of space time probably created four separate images of the supernova when viewed from Earth, we find that these likely appeared as a single source after atmospheric blurring,"

said Dr Quimby.

The discovery could provide astronomers with a new tool to measure the expansion of the Universe.

That's because PS1-10afx is the first supernova of its kind to be magnified by "strong gravitational lensing" - where multiple images of the supernova are formed creating the extra-bright appearance.

"Each image will arrive at a different time with the exact delay dependent on how fast the Universe is expanding. In principle, measuring this delay provides a direct way to measure cosmic expansion,"

A

ters (19.68 feet) below the main street of Jerusalem in the era of the Second Temple,” he added.

Commonly believed to have been part of King Herod’s massive expansion project on the Temple Mount, which included the Second Temple itself, the Western Wall may have not been built by the Bible’s bloodiest tyrant after all.

According to Shukron, the excavation revealed a number of coins beneath the wall which date decades after Herod’s death.

This would suggest that construction of the Western Wall had not even begun at the time of Herod’s death and was likely completed only generations later by one of his descendants.

The IAA said it would not comment on the discovery until analysis on the chisel and other findings were completed.

(Discovery)

Dr Quimby explained.

Unfortunately, the scientists could not do this with PS1-10afx because it faded away before its importance was recognised. But now they know what to look for.

"Our discovery implies there are many more gravitationally lensed supernovae that are barely resolved, like PS1­ 10afx," said Prof Masamune Oguri, of the University of Tokyo.

"Our selection method can soon be applied to future surveys to improve our understanding of the expanding Universe."

(BBC)

240-square-mile (660 kilometer) iceberg, named B31, recently escaped into the open ocean from Pine Island Bay, Antarctica, announced NASA, which is monitoring the gargantuan chunk of ice.

Although the floating ice is roughly 10 times the size of Manhattan, it could be hard to track in the long darkness of the coming polar winter. British Antarctic Survey airplanes dropped 37 GPS tracking units onto the iceberg in January to follow it. NASA satellites also watch the iceberg’s movements from orbit.

The 20-mile (33 kilometer) by 12 mile (20 kilometer) iceberg snapped off, or calved, from the Pine Island glacier in November, 2013.

Even with radar and warning systems, icebergs threaten modern ships

with the same fate as the HMS Titanic.

In 2007, the MS Explorer, an Antarctic cruise ship, sank after striking an iceberg near the South Shetland Islands, reported CBS News.

Shipping in the polar regions has increased in recent decades. At the same time, glaciers now calve more icebergs. Even small icebergs, known as growlers and bergy bits, threaten vessels.

“The growlers and bergy bits are difficult to detect by radar and satellite, yet are still capable of damaging or sinking a ship,” ocean physicist Peter Wadhams, of the University of Cambridge, told AccuWeather. “Since there are more icebergs and they are melting faster, we can expect a bigger population of growlers and berg bits, so more danger to shipping.” (Discovery)

20 Times Sunday Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

April 27, 2014

Times Tech

C

lear, unimpeded communication is the obsession of the modern age. Our most brilliant minds work tirelessly to connect the citizens of every nation, from every social strata. The ease of social media is now seen as a birthright— even by those who, just a decade ago, were reluctant to make purchases online.

And of course, our tablets and cell phones have become intuitive extensions of our bodies. Since human beings have developed this emotional bond with their technology, it makes sense that a loss of battery life inspires an emotional response.

Eesha Khare (19) of Saratoga, California—runner-up at the 2013 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)— had one such experience when she found herself away from home, with a dead cell phone battery and no way to contact her parents. Unable

Tech Byte

T

to find a power source, she had to track down (and subsequently learn how to work) a pay phone, which is not so simple in this day and age. A loss of mobile energy created a scary reality for Eesha; connectivity is something she had been taking for granted. Then and there, she decided to do something about mobile device power.

The beautiful and wellrounded daughter of an engineer and a biologist, Eesha has been fascinated by science for her entire life.

This mobile device quandary was just the kind of challenge she’d been seeking— one that would allow her to stretch her brain, to fully utilize the computation power of her technology, and to address an issue that would serve millions of people just like her. “I’m a typical teenager, reliant on mobile technology,” she says.

Perhaps “typical” is a bit modest.

Eesha Khare

Eesha is the developer of a supercapacitor energy storage device, a carbon fiber with different metal oxides—primarily titanium dioxide and polyaniline— that uses nanotechnology to maximize the device’s surface area. It charges mobile devices much faster than previous technology has allowed, and has the ability to charge for many more cycles. Her innovation could be harnessed to charge more

Chipmaker Synaptics rides popularity of fingerprint ID phones

he growing popularity of using fingerprints to unlock mobile phones and other devices is expected to drive growth at Synaptics Inc (SYNA.O), which makes the chips enabling the technology popularized by Apple Inc's (AAPL.O) iPhone 5S. Synaptics' chips for fingerprint ID and touchscreens are used in Samsung Electronics Co Ltd's (005930.

K S ) Galaxy S5, and strong sales of the smartphone will help Synaptics post its strongest annual revenue growth since 2007.

The chipmaker's shares soared as much as 14 percent to $72.75 in after-hours trading, after touching their all-time high of $67.71 in regular trading on Thursday.

Synaptics could boast of a market share of as much as 80 percent in fingerprint recognition technology for the next few quarters as the S5 will be the dominant smartphone being shipped with the technology, Feltl & Co analyst Jeffrey Schreiner said.

The company entered the fingerprint ID market through the acquisition of Validity Sensors Inc last October, with which it also got its entry into Samsung's phones.

It was not clear if Synaptics also supplies to Apple.

Schreiner said Synaptics market share in the fingerprint ID market could fall with the launch of Apple's new phone, rumored to be in September, and other smartphones.

However, Stifel Nicolaus and Co analyst Kevin Cassidy expects Validity to be Synaptics' catalyst for growth next year.

"They have got 45 percent market share in touch control in handsets and we think

than cell phones and tablets; down the line, it could potentially energize cars.

In the meantime: “My goal is to have a supercapacitor charge a mobile device in less than a minute.”

She took her project— "Design and Synthesis of Hydrogenated TiO2Polyaniline Nanorods for Flexible High-Performance Supercapacitors"—to the 2013 Intel ISEF and out of the 1,600 students competing she came in second place, winning the “Intel Foundation Young Scientist Award” and $50,000. The most prominent tech companies in the world have become very intrigued by young Eesha—not to mention talk show host Conan O’Brien, who had her on his show for a very entertaining back and forth. (She’s a natural on camera, in addition to being intimidatingly smart.)

Now a happy freshman

Tech news

at Harvard University, Eesha uses her Intelpowered devices to maintain constant access with her research. “Technology makes data evaluation much faster,” she says, noting that she uses her Intel powered tablet to gauge how her innovation has contributed to the science world. A naturally curious and well-rounded individual, Eesha also uses her tablet to pursue a spectrum of interests, inducing traditional Indian dance.

Through her powerful devices she is also able to seek out new science mentors and labs that can push her discoveries forward.

So there we have Eesha Khare—a typical teenager in many ways; every now and then extraordinary.

We suppose the same can be said for every individual who takes full advantage of powerful technology and dares to supercharge the natural curiosity that lies within. (Mashable)

Facebook buys fitness app firm

they could get that kind of market share in fingerprint."

Touch-powered results

For now, strong demand for touchscreen devices in general helped Synaptics post better-than-expected results for the third-quarter ended March 31 and forecast a strong finish to the fiscal year.

Synaptics' forecast revenue growth of 37-40 percent for the year ending June 30.

Revenue growth was last better in 2007, when it clocked a 44.6 percent rise.

Charges related to the acquisition of Validity Sensors pushed the company to a net loss of $40.1 million, or $1.12 per share, in the third quarter ended March 31.

However, Synaptics said the deal added to non-GAAP earnings a quarter ahead of schedule. Its non-GAAP, or adjusted, profit of 63 cents per share was well ahead of analysts' average estimate of 57 cents per share.

Revenue rose a better-than-expected 25 percent to $204.3 million, as business from mobile phone clients rose 44 percent.

Synaptics forecast fourth-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.10-$1.32 per share on revenue of $275-$295 million.

Analysts on average were expecting profit of 98 cents on revenue of $231.3 million, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. The company's stock has risen 71 percent in the past 52 weeks, outperforming the broader S&P 500 semiconductors index.SPLRCELCS. (Reuters)

F

acebook has added a Finnish firm that makes a fitness tracking app to its ever-increasing portfolio of purchases.

Helsinki-based ProtoGeo created the Moves app that uses a smartphone's built-in sensors to track activity and calories burned.

The acquisition offers the social network an entry into the burgeoning health technology market.

Other recent purchases include mobile messaging firm WhatsApp and virtual headset maker Oculus.

Facebook did not reveal how much it paid for ProtoGeo, which has fewer than 10 employees, but it is believed to be a fraction of the price it has paid for more high-profile firms recently.

It paid $2bn (£1.1bn) for Oculus VR and spent $19bn (£11.3bn) on WhatsApp.

Targeted ads

In a blogpost the fitness firm moved to reassure its users about the purchase.

"For those of you that use the Moves app - the Moves experience will continue to operate as a stand-alone app, and there are no plans to change that or co-mingle data with Facebook."

Meanwhile Facebook said of the pur-

chase: "The Moves team has built an incredible tool for the millions of people who want to better understand their daily fitness activity, and we're looking forward to the app continuing to gain momentum."

The app runs in the background of users' phones, using location data to monitor activities through the day.

The free app has been downloaded more than four million times for both iPhone and Android phones, according to the firm.

Many of the big technology firms are seeing money to be made from health technology. There is a range of fitness bands and smartwatches on the market already.

Apple is rumoured to be on the verge of launching its own smartwatch with fitness features and Google last month launched software for wearables.

But for Facebook, the purchase of a fitness app is likely to be all about new data which will allow it to better target adverts, thinks Alys Woodward, an analyst with research firm IDC. "They want to know more stuff about what people do and where they are. This is useful information even if they don't tie it back to the individual," she said. (BBC)

guyanatimesgy.com

April 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine 21

Times Art

Burrowes School of Art’s tutors

'Abstract Ele' (2008) by Dahlia H Peters

Untitled (2012) by Ivor Thom

'Face of Shame II' (2013) by Nicole Bissoo-Williams

'Twirls and Rows II' (2014) by Dawn Isaacs

'Mask' (2014) by Josefa Tamayo

'Large Vase' (2012) by Everley Austin

Untitled (2013) by Jynell Osborne

T

he recently opened Tutors Exhibition of Burrowes School of Art at Castellani House has provided a forum for veteran artists to display their most applauded work. Below are profiles written by the exhibiting artists/tutors who are paving the way for future artists.

Ivor Thom (Administrator: E R Burrowes School of Art): I graduated from the Burrowes School of Art (BSA), Guyana, in 1979. Then I attended the National School of Plastic Art (Escuela Nacional de Artes Plasticas) in Havana Cuba where I specialised in monumental and bronze sculpture. In 1983, I returned to the Guyana National Service, of which I was an enlisted member prior to receiving my scholarships... For my role in the construction of monumental bronze works, I was awarded the Medal of Service...

Jynell Osborne (Director of Studies): My work in the past has been described as surrealist, semi-abstracted, cathartic, feminine, and erotic and pieces of social commentary. All of the above do share my work in whatever medium I chose, be it acrylic, the encaustic medium, steel, clay, paper mache or a combination of two or more of these mediums...

I am a longstanding member of the Guyana Woman Artist's Association (past president 2010-2013). I currently serve as a member of the Guyana Visual Arts Competition & Exhibition Planning Committee and as a board member on the Management Committee of the National Gallery of Art. Everley Austin (Tutor: Ceramic): I am 66 years old and have been doing ceramics since I was nine years old. I was awarded a scholarship to study art (ceramics). I taught ceramics at the E R Burrowes School of Art from 1980-2000 and from 2006 to present. In 2001-2002, I taught art in Botswana. I am an art teacher who produces art during demonstrations. I have participated in many art exhibitions and two One-Man shows in 1998 and 2010.

Robert Cummings (Tutor: Textile Construction): I am a textile artist and an art teacher who graduated from the E R Burrowes School of Art in 1980 with a Diploma in Textile Designing. I served as Administrator at Burrowes School of Art from 2000-2013. I am presently returning to active productive work after years of relative inactivity.

Vandyke David (Tutor: Ceramic): I graduated from the Burrowes School of Art in 2008 and I have been doing ceramics ever since then. I have participated in exhibitions and competitions at the National Gallery of Art. I also have experience in setting up exhibitions and have been teaching ceramics part-time at the Burrowes School of Art in 2009 and later became a full-time tutor.

Sheena Henry (Part-time Tutor: Children Classes Vocation Workshop): I am a graduate of the E R Burrowes School of Art. There I studied sculpture and textiles. My inspiration always comes from persons close to me...

Dawn Issacs (Tutor: Ceramic Art): ...My artistic competence was evident at a young age and as a young adult I was nurtured at the E R Burrowes School of Art in the 1980s. Maturity and distinct style for me as an artist was realized at the University of Guyana in the 1990s. Organic forms in ceramics were the appetite and taste of my early ca-

reer. Presently the focus has transcended to geometric and asymmetric dictates in our environment...

Nicole Bissoo-Williams (Part-time Tutor. Colour Theory; General Studies in Painting): I attended St Stanislaus High school where I attained grade B in art G.C.E.O. Levels. I went on to attend E R Burrowes School of Art during which time I displayed a particular style for fantasy paintings, side by side with portraiture. I graduated in Masters of Fine Arts, (MFA) Penn Foster University, U.S.A... My body of work includes murals (fairy scenes and images from wellknown stories adorn many a wall in some lucky children's rooms) wooden sculptures, ceramics collection pieces, handpainted t-shirts and fabric and a vast collection of oil paintings, water colours and acrylics and charcoal and pencil renderings depiction life in Guyana...

Dahlia H Peters (Tutor: Ceramic): My art training began when I joined the E R Burrowes School of Art in 1988 September. While attending the art school I became curious and fascinated with clay, thus I began to explore ceramics. This exploration led to me choosing ceramics as a major and textiles as a minor subject... Art helps me to express my emotions, dreams and interpretations of my culture and issues in and around my environs...

Volda Russell-Ramsammy (Tutor: Textile Design; Basic Design): ...I studied four years at the E R Burrowes School of Art and graduated in 1995 as a major textiles artist and minor in graphics. In September of that very year, the late Denis Williams and Agnes Jones, Director of Art and Administrator of the E R Burrowes School of Art respectively, recognised the quality of my work and recommended that I be retained as a part-time tutor in Textiles Designs...

Joseph Saunders (Tutor: Computer Graphic Art): I have always wanted to study graphics design. The reason for this is because from a young age I've always had a very high interest in advertising and graphic design. Everything that is around us has been designed and this has always fascinated me. Studying at the E R Burrowes School of Art from 1994 — 1998 where I major in painting and minor in graphic design, have given me a better insight into what path of art I want to follow in the future....

Sean Thomas (Tutor: Graphic Art): I am in the Fine Arts as well as the Performing Arts for the last 19 years.

I excelled at exhibitions and events in Guyana and around the Caribbean. In 2004, I was a part of the E R Burrowes School of Art Tutors’ Exhibition at the National Art Gallery, Castellani House...

I also taught art at annual summer camps. I am also well known for performing skills and I showcased my talent at many events. I have always been working and still continue to work with the differently able as a sign language interpreter for the deaf community...

The Tutors Exhibition of Burrowes School of Art is currently ongoing at Castellani House, Vlissengen Road.

Admission is free. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday; the gallery is closed Sundays and holidays. (Excerpted profiles taken from Curator Ohene Koama’s Tutors Exhibition of Burrowes School of Art 2014 notes)

guyanatimesgy.com

April 27, 2014

Times Sunday Magazine 23

Times Travel & Tourism

Panoramic view of Crane Pond

Calm day at the pond

The pond is home to a variety of tree species

Crane Pond is located not far from Karanambu Ranch, Rupununi; its visual spectacle is equalled only by the diverse chatter of its various avian and aquatic inhabitants, making the area one of the impressive features of the Rupununi region.

For birding enthusiasts, excellent bird watching is available at Crane Pond. Hundreds of boisterous ibis, anhinga, heron and egret birds can be seen roosting, which is a highlight on the trip to the pond. There is also the beautiful spread of Victoria Amazonica flowers on the water that increases the beauty of this natural water feature.

Boating on the pond offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe upclose the unique ecosystem existing there. The view from the pond provides an amazing backdrop of hills, mountains, and savannah. That makes the area for tourists to experience the biodiversity at Crane Pond a treat when visiting the Karanambu Ranch.

A crane flies above the pond

24

Times Sunday Magazine

April 27, 2014

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Last Laugh

SWAT Team blues

Dummies Can Bear a Bull Market

By MelvinDurai

I

recently borrowed a book called "Investing for Dummies" from my local library, not because I consider myself a dummy, but because I've lost faith in stock market experts and want to find out what all the dummies are investing in.

Surely the dummies didn't put all their money in companies like Enron and WorldCom, whose executives failed to disclose the fact that, despite reports to the contrary, they're slime balls.

Surely the dummies made wiser investments, such as buying stock in that innovative company that makes dog underwear. It may seem like a strange product, but dogs are evolving rather fast, already displaying more human qualities, in general, than the average WorldCom executive.

Surely the dummies invested in companies whose names they can identify with, companies such as "Dingbat Data Systems," "Imbecile Industries," and "Moron Mutual." As many distraught stockholders have learned, it's better to have invested in Moron than Enron.

Dummies rarely claim to be financial wizards, but they do know some basic terms and principles. They know, for example, that a dreamer can make you dream, a gambler can make you gamble, and a broker can make you broke.

When dummies hear the term "bull market," they know that someone will be spreading it around rather thick. And when they hear "bear market," they know they'll have even more to bear. (Greed has no limits in the financial world and if you don't believe me, just check out the fancy limousine that Enron's CEO bought for his dogs. As though silk underwear wasn't enough!)

Dummies try to be realistic about their investment returns, which may explain why they didn't get carried away with WorldCom's IPO (initial public offense).

Instead, they focused on the company's ROI (restatement of inaccuracies).

Dummies know the importance of diversification, even if they have a little trouble spelling it. "My stocks are giving me heartburn," one man wrote to his brokers. "I hope you can give them a little more digestion."

It's safe to assume that this man invested only a small portion of his life savings in dot-com companies and doesn't shudder whenever he hears the word "retirement." Meanwhile, some of his "wiser" friends are more certain about life after death than life just before.

Dummies think long-term. They don't expect to become millionaires by age 30.

They're willing to wait until 32. If that doesn't happen, they don't panic. They just marry Liz Taylor. If she isn't available, there's always Anna Nicole Smith, who knows all about marrying for money. "When the stock market fails you," her agent tells tycoons, "you can always invest in the stocky market. As long as she gets hitched on her TV show, she doesn't mind where she gets ditched."

Dummies realize that a person's net worth can't always be measured in dollars and cents. Sometimes it must be measured in pounds and shillings. (Especially if the person lives in a pub.)

But the ultimate way is to look into a person's heart. If he or she can feel good about making a few million from a company's stock, while many employees and investors are getting ripped off, then net worth is a few million below zero.

You don't have to be a dummy to know that.

“As team leader of the Police Tactics and Rescue Unit, I directed officers late one night to strategic positions around a building where a dangerous suspect was hiding.

Believing the culprit to be on the roof, I decided to have an officer shine his flashlight in that direction on my command.

At just the right moment, I whispered to him, "Okay, throw a light on the roof."

The officer hurled his flashlight to the top of the building.”

Only chocolate

Can't eat beef... mad cow Can't eat chicken... bird flu Can't eat eggs... again, bird flu Can't eat pork...fears that it won’t be properly cooked Can't eat fish...heavy metals in the water has poisoned their bodies Can't eat fruits and veggies... insecticides and herbicides Hmm… I believe that leaves chocolate!

Important farming issues

All of the farmers in a small town had gathered at the town hall to discuss some important farming issues. About midway through the meeting, a wife of one of the farmers stood up and spoke her piece.

One of the farmers, attempting to show the woman to be ignorant on the subject of farming, stands up and says, "What does she know about anything?

I would like to ask her if she knows how many toes a pig has. Well, lady?"

Quick as a flash, the woman replies, "Take off your boots sir, and count them yourself!"

Lost cell phone

“When a customer left his cell phone in my store, I scrolled through his saved numbers, stopped at "Mom" and pushed send. His mother answered, and I told her what happened.

"Don't worry," she said, "I'll take care of it."

A few minutes later, the cell phone rang. It was "Mom." "Martin," she said, "you left your cell phone at the convenience store."”

Attention, please!

A businessman who needed millions of dollars to clinch an important deal went to church to pray for the money. By chance he knelt next to a man who was praying for $100 to pay an urgent debt.

The businessman took out his wallet and pressed $100 into the other man's hand. Overjoyed, the man got up and left the church.

The businessman then closed his eyes and prayed: "And now, Lord, that I have

your undivided attention..."

The usual questions

A property manager of single-family residence was showing a unit to prospective tenants and asking the usual questions. "Professionally employed?" he asked.

"We're a military family," the wife answered.

"Children?"

"Oh, yes, ages nine and twelve," she answered proudly.

"Animals?"

"Oh, no," she said earnestly. "They're very well behaved."

Wonderful eulogy

The old man had died. A wonderful funeral was in progress and the country preacher talked at length of the good traits of the deceased: what an honest man he was, what a loving husband and kind father he had been.

The widow meanwhile was ever so slightly shaking her head, as she intently listened to the preacher's words.

Finally, the widow leaned over and whispered to one of her children . . .

“Erica honey, go on up there, take a look in the coffin, and see if that's your pa in there."

The price is right

Morris bought a new fridge for his house. To get rid of his old fridge, he put it in his front yard and hung a sign on it saying, "Free to good home. You want it -you take it."

For three days, the fridge sat there without even one person looking twice at it...

Eventually, Morris decided that people were too untrusting of the deal, that it looked "too good to be true". So he changed the sign to read "Fridge for sale -- $150".

The next day someone stole it.

Butcher shop thoughts

A woman goes into the butcher shop and as she is walking around the store, she spies a beef tongue in the butcher's counter. The woman asks, "What in the world is that?"

"Beef tongue," replies the butcher.

The woman gives a little involuntary shudder, "Ewww! Gross!

No way would I put anything in my mouth that came out of an animal's mouth!"

The butcher nods sympathetically while peeking into the woman's shopping cart, "I see you're buying a dozen eggs!"

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