Magazine 6 august 2017

August 6, 2017

Star Times Hollywood:

Camila Cabello talks Taylor Swift, bad friendships and going solo Page 14 FREE DISTRIBUTION

INSIDE

In the heart of the jungle Page 8

A Guyanese symbol of emancipation celebrated on stamps Page 2

Using art to ‘create magic’ Page 3

Home & Decor

How to Fold Fitted Sheets Page 11

2 Sunday Times Magazine

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AUGUST 6, 2017

Feature

Student successfully creates app for GTT

Satesh Persaud

By Ashraf Dabie

W

Cuffy and the 1763 Monument celebrated on stamps

By Ann Wood

E

mancipation Day is observed in many former European colonies in the Caribbean, South Africa, Canada and areas in the United States on various dates.

This day commemorates the emancipation of African slaves. It also observes areas regarding the abolition of other forms of slavery.

Emancipation Day in Guyana is celebrated on August 1 and commemorates the abolition of slavery in Guyana in 1834.

A former slave, Cuffy, has become the symbol of the abolition of slavery in Guyana.

Cuffy became famous due to his leading the 1763 revolt of more than 2,500 slaves against the colony regime. He was an Akan man who was captured in his native West Africa and stolen for slavery to work in the plantations of the Dutch colony of Berbice.

He died in 1763 and is considered a national hero in Guyana.

The anniversary of the Cuffy slave rebel-

lion, February 23, has been celebrated as the Republic Day in Guyana since 1970. Cuffy is immortalised by the 1763 Monument located at the Square of the Revolution. The monument was designed by the late Guyanese artist, Philip Moore.

In 1977, Guyana issued a series of stamps featuring the Cuffy monument to commemorate the 1763 slave revolt and the abolition of slavery in Guyana. It is catalogued in the Scott Catalog as #'s 263-66. These stamps are featured today.

Ann Wood is president of the Guyana Philatelic Society. The members of the Guyana Philatelic Society are people from all walks of life who collect new issues from Guyana to those who have only very limited stamp budgets. But above all, the stamp club offers the friendship, knowledge and experience of its members who are there to help stamp collectors with advice on all aspects of collecting. Visit www.guyanastamps.com for more information on stamp collection.

hile pursuing academic studies at Queen’s College, 18-year-old Satesh Persaud divided his time between studying and crafting a mobile application for local telecommunications company, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT).

Notably, Persaud created a shortcut to provide customers with a simplified approach to GTT’s mobile services.

“The app I designed is called GDial. It has one simple goal and that is to simplify the way users access options in GTT *100# menu.

GDial presents the options from the *100# menu in a simple and organised manner. To select an option, you simply tap on it. When you tap an option, you automatically dial the number that takes you straight to the result for that option. For example, tapping the Dynamic Balance option instantly dials the number and displays your Dynamic Balance,” the computer science student

explained to Sunday Times Magazine.

Persaud described himself as a “fan of all things relating to computers and programming”. He added that his idea for the app was in the making years before he learned about developing Android apps.

“Back then, I just thought someone should build an app to do this, but no one did.

Then one day, sometime in September 2015, I just suddenly decided to try Android app development. And that started a long journey of fun self-learning that I don’t want to end. When I’m learning something new, I need some sort of goal as motivation to keep learning and that’s when I decided to make this app my goal. I kept learning and working on the app since then and that continues up to now,” he expressed.

The self-taught programmer can now boast the creation of his very own app at such a tender age.

“It was quite tough to manage school and develop the app, especially since I had to learn how to develop the app at the same time. I did most of the work after school and during holidays.

I didn’t really have a project plan. I just did something and if I liked it, I kept it. If I didn’t like it, I im-

proved on it. Due to that, the app took over a year to develop before I first released it,” he recalled.

Persaud’s dedication to his studies paired with his passion for creating GDial stands as a testimony of the invaluable talents and skills that exist locally.

Additionally, the 18-yearold’s creation is an inspiration to other young aspiring innovators, who Persaud urged to “explore their possibilities and work tirelessly towards achieving their goals”.

The GDial app is now available for download on Google Play Store and is free of cost.

App features

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AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

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Feature

Artist Vimaldat ‘Chris’ Bissessar

By Lakhram Bhagirat

F

or 17-year-old Vimaldat ‘Chris’ Bissessar, art means expressing every emotion coursing through his body via his paint brushes, pens and pencils. Art gives him the opportunity to “create magic”.

Chris, as he prefers to be called, was born on May 6, 2000 and is an only child. He attended the West Demerara Secondary School, where he recently wrote CSEC. “Growing up I was always an artistic child, constantly doodling on my text books. Teachers from primary school and my parents were always enthusiastic and very encouraging of the scribbles I gave them,” Chris recalled in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

Although his passion for art started from childhood, Chris explained he became even more enthused when he stumbled upon a watercolour ‘speed painting’ video on YouTube.

“I bothered my father to take me shopping for art supplies. I bought everything that I needed and instantly went home

and slowly started painting. I remember being very pleased with my first painting. After that, I progressed and would use my savings and allowances to buy more brushes, paper and books on how to paint - which mostly helped - but my greatest teacher was the internet,” Chris recollected.

Additionally, the artist stated that his inspiration came from American painters, Bob Ross and Lena Danya. Inspired, Chris started with watercolour painting. He also wholly enjoyed the “simplicity” exhibited by French YouTuber called Tillth.

“I was inspired to pursue art because of its dying culture; this amazing and beautiful practice needs to be kept alive and practiced more frequently. Due to the greater development of technology, there is not much need for actual paintings. I feel that there is just a timeless beauty in art that needs to be preserved.

It is a skill that should be encouraged in schools because it presents a way for individuals to express themselves, on canvas,” expressed Chris.

After becoming comfort-

Another watercolour artwork

able with watercolour, the artist then progressed on to oil paintings - a transition that many warned was the “hardest form of painting”. But Chris was up for the challenge; he saved his allowances and bought the necessary materials required to venture into oil painting. Looking back, Chris said he has no regrets and enjoys every second of oil painting.

The young artist pointed out that the art industry in Guyana is suffering. He believes that it is an area “no one sees as important”, but hopes this situation changes when he decides to officially launch an art career.

“I find some artists in Guyana only focus on real shots and references; there are no additions to make that painting more photogenic or whimsical, which is more my style. Art in Guyana is quite underdeveloped in my perspective.

There are talented individuals, but there are very limited avenues of showcasing their skill or display their work,” Chris noted.

Apart from painting, Chris enjoys photography.

Both the painting and photography processes push him to always produce his best.

“I aim for something to be beautiful with a photogenic attribute. My pieces are contrasted and heavily saturated, but they always vary. I find myself using cool colours, the majority of the time. At the moment, I'm hooked on oil painting, so who knows what other art form I shall explore lat-

Beautiful watercolour painting

er on,” he declared.

Though Chris’ artworks have never been on display, he aims to cement his place among veteran art-

One of Chris' oil paintings

ists try. say see

in the local art indusTherefore, it is safe to that we can expect to Chris’ work being dis-

played in the near future.

You can connect with the artist at Chris Bissessar on Facebook or on Instagram.

Oil painting of a beach scene

4

Sunday Times Magazine

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AUGUST 6, 2017

Feature

V

isiting her mother’s hometo Guyana, Indigenous land, Guyana, Danielle Coconut Oil was born.

Hodge was inspired to Indigenous Coconut create an avenue to not only Oil was founded in 2016 promote her heritage, but to with a simple idea: to empower local communities. empower women arThis inspiration gave birth to tisans in Guyana by Indigenous Coconut Oil. showcasing their beauIn an interview with tiful craft through enSunday Times Magazine, trepreneurship.

Its Danielle said she was born products are handin Brooklyn, NY and made by indigeraised in Orlando, nous women Florida, where l o c a t e d she currently realong the sides. Her mothPomeroon er is from Anna River in Regina, Guyana Guyana. and her father So when from St. Martin. you purIn 2016, c h a s e Danielle visited t h o s e Guyana to atproducts Danielle Hodge tend the first you supannual Coconut port inFestival. Out of the many trips she digenous women groups. has taken to visit her family, the trip “I started Indigenous Coconut Oil to Guyana in 2016 was different. With on my own. The idea and taking the over 10 years’ experience in grassroots leap to start, I will say came from God. marketing and a true passion to give What keeps me going is knowing that back to her mother's homeland, it was it's alright to fail, but most importantan easy decision to take on a brand of ly giving my all every day and knowing her own. Danielle cancelled her round giving up is not an option,” expressed trip ticket back to the US and stayed Danielle. in Guyana for a month until she found She noted that the mission behind her product. During Danielle's last trip Indigenous Coconut Oil is to empow-

er Guyanese women and encourage young entrepreneurs.

“As a first time entrepreneur myself, I know it can be scary not knowing what to do.

You start questioning and doubting yourself on starting a business of your own.

Sometimes you may even feel you can't go out and look for a job because there aren't many opportunities or enough encouragement. I want to be an example and use my platform to assist in creating opportunities. I am on a mission to advocate for women and young people to ensure artisans in Guyana are getting decent and consistent work,” she declared.

Danielle mentioned that she has been in business for about seven months now and there is much she still has to accomplish. She added that connecting with the Guyana Marketing Corporation; International Organization for Migration; and the University of Guyana has been a “huge accomplishment thus far”. Danielle pointed out that these organisations have been very helpful in getting her the assistance she needs in Guyana.

“There have been a lot of things that inspired me along my journey, including support from my family and friends.

I can say my last bit of inspiration came from my visit to the Coconut Festival last October in Guyana. Seeing all the products and small business owners gave me the final ‘ok’ to put Indigenous Coconut Oil into motion. I haven’t partnered with any organisations as yet, but I am very open to hearing from organisations with potential for partnership and creating future opportunities,” she declared.

Danielle’s plans also include organising “a small mix and mingle” to meet

Activated coconut shell charcoal

with women in business and young women looking for guidance in entrepreneurship in Guyana.

Additionally, she hopes to meet with students at various schools in Guyana to encourage and empower them. Her goal is to also partner with local villages and continue to be a platform to market natural products from Guyana and indigenous communities.

“I hope to also meet with any government officials interested in my story. I hope by meeting with them, we can create a blueprint for new job opportunities in Guyana. In the future, I would like to add more products to my brand.

I feel that as the brand grows, the demand for product from Guyana will grow,” Danielle stated.

For more information, email Danielle at info.indcoco@gmail.com or visit indigenouscoconutoil.com or Indigenous Coconut Oil on Facebook.

Indigenous coconut oil

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AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Feature

Pageantry and Fitness

Miss Global International Guyana 2017 fervently advocates for healthy living after her mother became critically ill

A

As a fitness trainer, Cynthia fervently advocates for healthy living

n ardent promoter of healthy living, recently crowned Miss Global International Guyana 2017, Cynthia Dookie, is convinced “that many life-threatening illnesses can be curbed and/ or prevented if we make healthier choices as it re-

lates to our diets and wellness”.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, the 23-year-old said Miss Global International Guyana is not her first pageant. She was a contestant in the Miss India Guyana 2017 pageant,

in which she placed second runner-up or “Second Princess”, was awarded Miss Fitness, and second place within the ‘Beautiful Heart’ category.

Cynthia’s platform in the Miss Global International pageant is “health and fitness”. She explained that the reason for her platform’s choice was as a consequence of her mother being admonished by doctors to basically “get healthy or die”.

“Becoming a fitness trainer was something I never decided on, but just happened in my life, and I’m so grateful it did. A few years ago, my mom got sick and was told by doctors if she didn't make drastic changes in her life, such as her diet, she would die. This was an eye-opener for me, and my mom and I took matters into our own hands. I decided that the only way I was going to get her to work out and eat healthier was if I did it with her,” Cynthia disclosed.

After a few months of hard work and dedication to improving both herself and mother’s health and fitness, an opportunity arose for Cynthia to become a personal trainer,

With franchise holders, Melicia Partab Alli (left) and Hashim Alli (right)

and she grabbed it.

“It was one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life.

This lead to the formation of my signature project, Fit U, under the tag line: ‘Transforming Lives

Miss Global International Guyana 2017, Cynthia Dookie (Photo by Shamer Hescott)

One Pound at a Time’,” recalled the fitness trainer.

Concerning her recent win in the Miss Global International Guyana,

achieve anything you set your heart on, once you work hard and never give up; be brave and be confident”.

Being crowned by Miss Global International Guyana 2016, Poonam Singh

Cynthia pointed out that the “phenomenal queens” before her “left huge shoes to fill as it relates to their placement internationally”; hence she is working tirelessly to ensure she brings home the Miss Global International crown.

“When I win the international title, I intend to use it to give a voice to my platform, which is promoting health and fitness throughout Guyana and internationally. I believe taking care of our bodies must be a priority. I also intend to use my title as a means to reach out to young women and help to motivate them as it relates to building their self-esteem and creating better versions of themselves,” the beauty queen declared.

Cynthia’s advice to youths is to “always follow your dreams; you can

Additionally, she mentioned that “dieting and exercise can be simple and easy, all you have to do is to take the first steps.

Do it for your health, but most importantly, for yourself”.

Apart from fitness and pageantry, Cynthia volunteers with local charitable organisation, Help and Shelter. Her hobbies include traveling, cooking, reading and working out.

Currently, Cynthia is pursuing a degree in human resource management through the Association of Business Education.

Visit Miss Global International Guyana on Facebook for more information on Cynthia’s advocacy work and her journey to the Miss Global International pageant, which is slated for September 6-10, 2017 in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

6 Sunday Times Magazine

AUGUST 6, 2017

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Literary Corner

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

By Petamber Persaud

S

cholars will differ on the most defining event leading to the ‘full’ emancipation of enslaved Africans in Guyana. After reading the only fictional account of the 1823 Demerara slave uprising, it would appear that the above event was the most critical on the road to freedom.

The fictional account in reference is a book titled “Ratoon”, published in 1962 and written by prolific Guyanese author, Christopher Nicole.

“Ratoon” is based on an improbable romance of two protagonists - a white female plantation heiress and a black male slave and freedom fighter/rebel leader.

Nicole used this ‘improbable romance’ to reconstruct a revolt spawned by the promise of freedom and freedom delayed. There were many other factors spawning that revolt, such as the inherent desire for freedom, overwork due to a decline in labour force, increased hours of work, the switch from cotton cultivation to sugar and personal grievances. Religious considerations played a major role in the revolt.

Subtle ways were employed by plantation management to restrict the enslaved from attending church, including work on Sundays; teaching from the Bible, which portrayed all men as equal in the sight of God; and the story of the deliverance of Jews. Some of the enslaved revolted for complete freedom, while others wanted Sundays off and additional days of rest.

In August 1823, thousands of slaves from about 55 sugar plantations on the East Coast of Demerara banded together to remonstrate their cause.

After the abolition of the slave trade in 1807,

Christopher Nicole

there was a tightening of the screws on available labour force, which meant the condition of slaves worsened. The awful condition of slavery on the Demerara plantations was graphically described by Rev. John Smith in his journal covering the years 1817-1824 he lived, and leading up to his death in British Guiana.

Posted to British Guiana, Smith and his wife sailed from Liverpool, England arriving

in Demerara on February 23, 1817. Apart from the rough welcome from the muddy Demerara River, Smith was greeted by Governor Murray with the ultimatum which forbade Smith teaching the slaves. If he did, then the governor threatened to banish him immediately from the colony.

Despite that warning, Smith revived the mission station (Bethel Chapel) at Plantation Le Resouvenir vacated by Rev. John Wray.

Smith’s evangelism was an instant success. He preached to large congregations, often spilling out of the chapel. That response encouraged him to start a class preparing slaves converted to Christianity for catechism and baptism.

Of course, he raised the ire of the governor and many planters. So at the time of the insurrection, in 1823, it was not difficult for Smith to fall foul of the law of the land. Martial law was imposed, hundreds of slaves were butchered, many hung and displayed in public for months, and John Smith was arrested. A frail and sick man, he was incarcerated for some seven weeks then tried in a court martial lasting some 28 days. He was condemned to death.

A reprieve by the home government was granted, but before this news reached the colony, he died in prison.

Although Smith’s work was influential in the revolt, it was the Christianised slaves who planned and executed the revolt. Slaves like Jack Gladstone, Quamina, Seaton, Manuel and Richard of Plantation Success, Telemachus and Joseph of Plantation Bachelor’s Adventure, Sandy of Plantation Non Pareil, and Paris of Plantation Good Hope.

Against that backdrop, Nicole placed his main characters, Joan Dart, heiress to the

Plantation, and Jackey Reed, Christianised slave and leader of the revolt. The novel also included the role of John Smith and Governor Murray.

The book covers events from Thursday, July 24 to Friday, September 19. The actual start of the revolt was August 18, and by August 20 it had fizzled out.

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

don’t cut down the tree or else a dangerous flood will emerge from it.”

But Pia continued to ignore him, so in frantic haste he began to collect bees’ wax and fallen fruits which he stuffed into the sharp gashes the axe made on the tree trunk.

Akuri hoped that his action would prevent any flood that he feared would spew from the damaged tree. But as fast as Akuri kept filling the gashes, Pia continued to hew away at the tree trunk.

Then Pia’s axe sank far into the trunk which had become as soft as a papaya tree, and at any moment it seemed as if the tree would tumble over. By this time, a large crowd of people had gathered at the scene and they watched as Pia chopped away while Akuri tried desperately to stuff the deep cuts with wax and fruits.

Soon, the great tree began to sway, but just as it was about to fall, the onlookers heard a loud shout. It was Anzik, Pia’s close friend, who came rushing up to save tree of life. He had been away from the village and, on his return, had learned from some children of what his friend intended to do.

He shouted to the forest spirit, who was

his protector as well, to make the tree trunk as hard as rock. At once, the forest spirit heeded his call and immediately Pia’s axe no longer had any effect on the tree.

But the damage was already done. With the trunk cut more than half-way across, the mighty tree swayed and then crashed heavily with a loud creaking sound to the ground.

Its wide-spreading, heavy branches knocked over all trees nearby, and its fruits flew off in all directions. And as slammed to the ground, the force of its weight split a large section of the trunk and tore up the deeply embedded roots which erupted from the soil, causing a destructive earthquake all over the land. Great blocks of rock were ripped up and thrown in the air as well, and as they fell back they formed a range of high mountains stretching as far as the eye could see.

As for the enormous trunk of the tree of life, it also rose up to the sky in the form of a massive rock, and created a towering mountain which later became known as Roraima.

And from its base where the ripped-open trunk once stood, a gigantic spout of water shot out and began to flood the entire countryside. While Pia and some of the villagers saved themselves by rushing to higher ground, many people and animals in the surrounding areas could not escape the deluge.

The flow was so fast and furious that large numbers of them drowned because they could not reach high land quickly enough.

One of those lucky enough to escape was Akuri. He ran as fast as he could, but his short chubby legs proved to be a disadvantage. As the flood waters were almost upon him, the forest spirit mercifully transformed him into an agouti, and his new-found swiftness of feet enabled him to scamper rapidly up the steep side of Mount Roraima, high above the raging waters of the mighty flood.

Story, published with permission from author, is taken from “Guyana Legends – Folktales of the Indigenous Amerindians” by Odeen Ishmael, published 2012. Ishmael is a veteran retired Guyanese diplomat. He retired from the diplomatic service in June 2014.

He last served as Guyana's Ambassador to Kuwait.

By Odeen Ishmael

D

eep within the forest stood a massive tree. This tree was a very unusual tree because it had magical qualities that enabled it to produce all kinds of fruits on its wide leafy branches. It also had an immense trunk and was much taller than any other tree, rising like a majestic mountain in the middle of the forest. Large knots protruded from its bark, and its branches were so thickly covered with leaves that they blocked the sunlight from reaching the ground.

Nevertheless, it was always full of life since large flocks of birds and swarms of insects occupied its branches and fed on its delicious fruits, which emitted a pleasant fragrance all around. All the people in the surrounding countryside came to this special tree for its abundant supply of fruits and most of them felt that they must make special efforts to ensure that it was carefully protected. For its colossal size and magical properties, it was known as the tree of life.

But Pia, the well-known powerful and muscular woodcutter, was determined to test his skills by cutting down this mammoth tree. One day he expressed his thoughts to the men in his village.

“All over the land everyone would regard me as the greatest woodcutter if I chop down this tree,” he boasted.

But Akuri, the short rotund farmer, immediately objected to his plan.

“How can you ever think of cutting down the tree of life?” he remonstrated. “It provides fruits for us all year round. If you chop it down, we will lose a most valuable resource, and, furthermore, our ancestors warned us that if ever that tree is cut down a destructive flood will spread all over the land.”

But Pia shook his head in disbelief.

“It’s just an old superstition that cutting down the tree will bring about a flood,” he declared. “I don’t believe that will ever happen. And if I cut down the tree, we can easily transplant pieces of its branches all over the land, thus enabling more fruits to be available after a little while.”

Opinion was divided over his statement,

and while some agreed with him, others, including Akuri, continued to raise objections.

But nothing could deter Pia, so he grabbed his heavy axe, threw it across his broad shoulders, and strode into the forest towards the magic tree. Akuri, worried as ever, hustled behind and pleaded with him to desist from any rash action.

Soon after, Pia arrived at the magic tree and stood beside its huge trunk under the thick branches looming overhead. He lifted his axe and made a heavy chop on the trunk.

But the wood was so hard that the heavy axe bounced back without leaving a mark on it.

Again and again he swung the axe, but it had no effect at all.

Standing close by, Akuri pleaded for Pia to stop his madness, but the woodcutter ignored him and continued to chop away.

As Pia realised he was making no headway, he suddenly remembered that he could call on the forest spirit to soften the wood of the magic tree. This he did, and almost at once, the forest spirit, who had always protected him, softened the wood and the heavy axe began to cut deep into the trunk.

Seeing this, Akuri begged, “Please, Pia,

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AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

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8 Sunday Times Magazine

AUGUST 6, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Travel & Tourism

Carahaa Landing

C

arahaa Landing camp is an exciting ‘hammock camp’ located on the banks of the Burro Burro River, three miles from Surama Eco-Lodge in North Rupununi.

In a large clearing of the dense jungle, there is a large, open benab for hanging hammocks; a smaller adjacent benab has a table and cooking area where food is prepared over an open fire.

It is a basic set-up but the permanent structure provides good shelter for anyone wishing to experience a night camping in the jungle without roughing it too much.

Staying overnight at the camp also allows visitors to experience night walks through the jungle, and late evening and very early morning canoe trips on the river, when the animals and birds are most active.

For birding enthusiasts, it is a great location for spotting some of Guyana’s famed birds.

Carahaa Landing offers a great experience in the heart of the jungle.

(Information by Kirk Smock. Cover photo: Nature scene at Carahaa Landing by jcdl. on Flickr)

A tent with hammocks at the camp (Photo by Grete Howard on Flickr)

Arriving at the Landing (Photo by jcdl. on Flickr) Aerial view of Surama airstrip (Photo by Surama Eco-Lodge)

Surama Eco-Lodge

Hut where cooking is done at Carahaa Landing (Photo by jcdl. on Flickr)

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AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Health

O

atmeal, a wholegrain powerhouse, has been packing serious nutrition and hearty flavour into breakfast for generations. It’s one of the few comfort foods that are as good for you as they are just plain good.

To get the most out of this super food, be a bit particular.

Some packets of instant oatmeal, for example, are loaded with sugar -- as much as 8 teaspoons per serving -- and high in sodium. Always check the label to see what you're getting.

Great oatmeal starts with plain rolled oats, or steel-cut oats, cooked in a little water or milk, and topped with wholesome ingredients.

If you're on a glutenfree diet, look for oats that are certified gluten-

S

ore throats serve as the major warning signal that you’re about to get hit with the flu, common cold or a bacterial infection like strep throat. On a far less ominous note, allergies, dry air and pollutants can also cause them.

Natural remedies Chicken Soup Chicken soup is a staple food when it comes to

free. Though oats themselves don't contain gluten, they can get tainted with gluten when they're being processed or growing, according to the Whole Grains Council in the US. Top Health Perks Oatmeal’s most en-

during claim to fame is its proven ability to curb bad (LDL) cholesterol.

Chalk that up to a type of soluble fiber called beta glucan.

Eating oats is linked to an average 7% drop in LDL cholesterol, research shows. Many oth-

being sick, but it turns out it is good for more than its comforting taste. Research suggests the chicken and vegetable combo helps reduce upper respiratory cold symptoms, including soothing sore throats.

acidity of the vinegar decreases the pH of tissue, which helps prevent bacteria from growing on its surface. Raw apple cider vinegar also has the prebiotic inulin, which may increase your number of white blood cells and T cells, and boosts your immune system.

Apple Cider Vinegar This brown liquid is thought to have antibacterial properties that can help fight the infection causing sore throats. The

Honey Mixing warm water, honey and lemon is a

er things also affect your heart's health (like what else you eat, how active you are, and whether you smoke), but oatmeal is a simple heart-smart start.

The fiber in oatmeal also helps you feel full and eat less later on during the day. Fiber also

time-honoured tradition to treat aching throats in

eases constipation and helps control blood sugars.

When you shop for oats, you'll see several types on the store shelves. They're all based on "oat groats," which are the whole oat kernel.

Instant oats: Oat groats that have been steamed and flaked.

Rolled oats (also called regular or oldfashioned oats) : Oat groats that have been steamed and rolled into flakes that are thicker (and thus take longer to cook) than instant oats.

Steel-cut oats (also called Irish oats): You get the whole oat kernel, cut up. These take about 20 minutes to cook.

Scottish oats: These are like steel-cut oats, but instead of being cut, they are ground.

Oat groats: This is

the whole oat kernel -- no cuts, flakes, or grinding.

They take longer to cook than other oats. Give them 50-60 minutes to cook, after you bring the water to a boil.

You can cook oatmeal on your stove top, in your microwave, or in a slow cooker.

Oatmeal Toppings Your bowl of oatmeal gets even tastier when you top it with spices.

Try cinnamon, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice or sprinkle walnuts (which are rich in heart-healthy omega-3s) on top.

Spoon in some frozen berries, and the warmth of the oatmeal will defrost them for you. Or try applesauce, or dried fruit.

You can add milk (dairy, almond, soy, or whatever else you like), too. (WebMD)

many households. A 2007 study from Penn State

University found that honey was as effective as dextromethorphan, the active ingredient in over-the-counter cold medicines, at relieving cough symptoms, and was rated more favourably for symptom relief during sleep.

Garlic This bulbous plant is antimicrobial and therefore potentially useful in treating early-stage sore throats.

Unfortunately, scientific studies haven’t directly linked the two, and you risk having horrible breath.

While these treatments can be useful in relieving pain, they can’t cure more serious throat infections. Make an appointment with your physician if you see white patches on the back of your throat; are so sore you can’t eat or drink anything; or have a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for longer than two days (less time for children).

10 Sunday Times Magazine Fashion

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AUGUST 6, 2017

A creative flair

S

Designer Shan Anthony Seecharan (left) with a model wearing one of his designs

han Anthony Seecharan is an applauded designer and entrepreneur known for his creative flair.

The designer was born in MabarumaHosororo, a small village in Region One. Coming from a family of tailors and seamstresses, it was no surprise Shan would one day become an admired designer.

However, his fervour for designing was not only innate, but was born as a coping mechanism during his “darkest moments”.

“It was during my darkest moments I started designing.

Eventually, designing turned out to be the brightest moments in my life,” Shan disclosed in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

The 22-year-old mentioned that about four years ago he officially started designing, although he was honing his talent years earlier.

Not only is Shan a designer, but also owns a photography and events decor business.

Under his label, SAS Designs, the self-taught designer has launched three clothing collections: ‘Fresh Blooms’, which was launched in December 2015; a bridal collection in 2016; and ‘Golden Treasure’ in May 2017.

“My main focus is to build my brand, making it bigger and better, and to own my own SAS Designs empire,” Shan declared.

For more information, visit SAS Designs on Facebook.

Styling Tips for Men

Best looking beards A t any length, the best looking beards are well-groomed to maintain their shape. That can mean doing it yourself or visiting a barber. Check out these cool beard styles trending right now.

This cool short beard trimming style is about shape more than length. The defined geometry plays up facial features.

A carved beard pairs well with the defined lines of an edge-up.

A shaved head contrasting with a full beard is a classic combination that always looks good.

The key to making it work is wellgroomed facial hair and some brow maintenance too.

While it is certainly possible to shape your beard at home, it can be helpful to get the initial shape done at by a barber or stylist.

In addition to being able to get it perfectly symmetrical, they can create a shape that works with facial hair growth, your face shape and haircut. From there, it is easy to maintain yourself.

guyanatimesgy.com

AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Recipe of the week

&

Green Tea Lemonade How to Fold Fitted Sheets Ingredients:

2 green tea bags 4 cups boiled water 1 cup sugar Juice of 4 lemons 2 cups cold water

Instructions:

Steep green tea bags in 4 cups of boiled water for 15 minutes. Remove tea bags then add sugar and stir until dissolved. Stir in lemon juice and cold water.

Serve chilled.

Follow these simple steps on how to fold fitted sheets perfectly to keep your linen basket/closet clutter free.

Slip both hands into two adjacent, inside-out corners of the longer side of the fitted sheet.

Plantain Fritters Ingredients:

2 green plantain, peeled and shredded 2 tsp garlic paste ½ tsp salt Oil Mayo Dip ½ cup Mayo 3 tsp lime juice 1 tsp celery, finely chopped 1 tsp honey Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

To make the fritters, mix shredded green plantain, garlic and salt. In a frying pan add enough oil so it’s about ½ inch deep and heat over medium fire. When oil is hot, scoop the shredded plantains (about 2 tablespoon) and then press gently for form a patty. Slide into the hot oil and cook until both sides about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, flipping after the first side is brown.

Remove from oil and drain onto a paper towel.

To make the sauce, add mayo, lime juice, celery, honey and mix to combine. Add salt and black pepper to taste. (Photos and recipes from www.jehancancook.com)

Bring these sides together and tuck the folds together so the right side of the fabric is showing (left image). Continue holding the tucked side in one hand, and use your other hand to tuck the other two sides hanging together (right image). Bring the two doubled sides together so that all four tucked corners are folded neatly together.

Greatest Cooking Tips

Ladling pancake batter into a pan is a recipe for a mess. Instead of dripping batter all over the place, put that pancake batter in an old condiment bottle, such as a ketchup bottle, and squeeze it out. You'll get perfectly shaped pancakes without any drips or unevenness.

To get rid fruit stains on your fingers, rub them with a fresh, peeled potato or white vinegar.

When making a soup, sauce, or casserole that ends up too fatty or greasy, drop in an ice cube, the ice will attract the fat, which you can then scoop out.

Lay the folded fitted sheet on a flat surface, fold in the elastic edges and straighten out any wrinkles.

Home Help To get rid of dirt, grime, and cobwebs in hard-to-reach cracks or crevices, dip an ordinary toothpick in some alcohol and run it through the affected area. Also try this to clean around the buttons of your phone.

Keep pots from boiling over; just stick a toothpick, laid flat, between the lid and pot. The little opening you create will allow enough steam to escape to prevent the pot from boiling over. This also works with a casserole dish that's cooking in the oven.

Continue folding until the fitted sheet is in the rectangle size you prefer in your linen basket/closet.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

AUGUST 6, 2017

Puzzles

Crossword

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ACROSS Made like sheep Retail giant Lasso Cause, as havoc Total indifference Typecast Per -- (yearly) Intense Wakes up John of "Crocodile Rock" Socrates follower Aesop tale Reid or Allen Ism Aleut carving Baby beaver Songwriter Janis -Injury result "Phantom of the --" More fetching Playground period Concrete reinforcer Purposeful people Chemical compound Glued on Seaweed Dory need Finished Large planet UFO passenger Honda rival My mind -- -- blank Weatherman Al -Library fixture Type in again Young horses "Orange" or "stock" ending Consommes Played charades Blob of mayo Fizzy beverage Survey finding Witches' band Rough fabrics Skinflint Full of cargo Letter turner Canyons Livy's parent Fourth-down option Luxury fabric Insurance workers Swings along Oust from power Family mem.

Latin dance Hang in midair Turn red, as a tomato Video game pioneer -- out (withdraw) Mink or ermine Rock bottom One of helium's two Gangbuster Eliot -Porter and stout Parachute parts Game fish Auto-racing family

115 Travel stopover

116 Upholstery choice 117 Wig

120 Goes in the water

122 Bond statistic

124 Arrogant person

128 Unit of resistance

129 Recipe word

131 -- -- in the bucket

133 Courtroom event

135 Dixie st.

136 Cummerbund site

138 Tibet neighbor

140 Development phase

142 Ice skater -- Stojko

144 Use Artgum

145 Drift

146 Price reductions

147 Meshed utensil

148 Los Angeles cager

149 Snorkel, to Beetle

150 Romantic appointment

151 Installed ceramic

DOWN 1 Defeats 2 Prank

3 Jung's inner self

4 NATO turf

5 Half of DJ

6 Patella protector

7 Not as hot

8 Oscar nominee

9 Sorority letter

10 Camper's quarters 11 Bliss 12 Coves

13 "What's in -- --?"

14 Well-known Pharaoh

15 Running wild

72

16 Blew gently 73

17 Electronics mfr.

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18 Jazz pianist -- Blake 76

19 Map collection

78 20 Wails

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31 Judge's duds

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33 Barracuda habitat

82 35 Gaelic

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38 Pickle juice

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40 Improvises (hyph.)

85 42 Prowled

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44 Company VIP

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46 Bedroom community 88

48 Pointed arch

50 Diagnostic aid (hyph.)

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51 Psychics may see them 91

52 Tolkien hero 53 Counterfeit

54 Kauai hello

55 Like some chests

57 Country estate

58 Bar legally

59 Talks hoarsely

61 Take up or let out

62 Red Sea republic

63 Chipmunk snack

66 Injures a matador

67 Place for rafting 69 Crocks

Long-handled tools Styles Douses a donut Mimicry Provide eats Eggs' partner Being led (2 wds.)

Suit coat feature Venomous snake Squeal (2 wds.)

Yawning Cracks in volcanoes Pulls up stakes French Legion headgear Burned up Bad, bad Brown of

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- WHISTLED WORD GAME by Kathleen Saxe TODAY’S WORD -- WHISTLED (WHISTLED: WIS-uld: Produced a high, clear sound by blowing through partly closed lips.)

Average mark 43 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 63 or more words in WHISTLED? list weld wide wish isle silt thew lithe welsh widest with islet site this edit welt width withe istle sled tide deist west wield held shed slew tied deli whet wild hide shied slid tilde diel while wildest hied shield slide tile diet whist wiles hilt side slit lest dish whit wilt ides sidle stew lewd dwelt white wise idle sild stile lied

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of "s," such as "bats" or "dies," are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a "d" or an "s" may not be used. For example, if "bake" is used, "baked" or "bakes" are not allowed, but "bake" and "baking" are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

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song Kevin of "Dave" Bad bets Worthless amount Ahead of time Comet -- -Bopp Steakhouse order Bridge fees Mitigated Untrue (2 wds.)

Bamboo feeder Have a late meal Good friend Least trustworthy Better organized Lying low Grassy borders

117 Poolside turban

118 Maureen of "The

Quiet Man"

119 Boat made of skins

121 Heron or egret

123 Neighbor of Austria

125 Seedless orange

126 Relish tray item 127 Founded

130 Morse code signals

132 "Hey, you!"

134 For fear that

137 NNW opposite

139 Hunter's org.

141 Cigarette goo

143 52, for Caesar Solution on Pg 13

Picture Puzzle Write the picture names in the boxes.

One is done for you.

guyanatimesgy.com

AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

A

range of liquid-filled iPhone cases is being recalled after reports of skin irritation and chemi-

cal burns associated with the products.

The cases, some of which carry the Victoria's Secret

brand, contain glitter floating beneath their plastic surface.

Consumers are at risk of

irritation, blisters or burns if the liquid leaks and comes into contact with skin.

The recall is in effect in the US, Canada and Mexico.

"One consumer reported permanent scarring from a chemical burn and another consumer reported chemical burns and swelling to her leg, face, neck, chest, upper body and hands," wrote the US Consumer Product Safety Commission in its press release.

It added that about 263,000 of the cases had been sold in the US. Images of the affected products, some of which carry the Victoria's Secret, Henri Bendel or Tory Burch brand, have also been posted online.

MixBin Electronics which made the cases - is

Tech News

F

acebook is to step up its efforts to fight fake news by sending more suspected hoax stories to fact-checkers and publishing their findings online.

It follows mounting criticism of the social media firm for not doing enough to root out fake news on its

platform.

It has also just launched a new feature in four countries that will publish alternative news links beneath problematic articles.

But several experts said the measures did not do go far enough.

"Presenting audiences with context is helpful,"

Crossword Solution

offering reimbursement to those who bought them.

The iPhone cases were sold at: Amazon.com, GetMixBin.com, henribendel.com and victoriassecret.com, Henri Bendel, Nordstrom Rack, Tory Burch and Victoria's Secret shops in the US, Canada and Mexico.

Some of the cases were still on sale on eBay's UK

store until the BBC brought the matter to the firm's attention.

MixBin liquid glitter cases already appeared to have been removed from Amazon's UK site.

Neither of the two internet retailers provided comment when asked by the BBC. (BBC)

Tech Tips

said Tom Felle, a senior lecturer in digital journalism at City University.

"But it does nothing to stop the spread of this material, or to stop traffic going to fake news peddlers who are making money out of creating this material.

Facebook has been criticised as being one of the main distribution points for fake news, which many think influenced the 2016 US presidential election.

Voters were also flooded with hoax stories during the French presidential election in May. The firm has previously been reluctant to take down potentially fake news stories, arguing that it does not want to be an "arbiter of truth".

Instead it identifies potentially false stories through a mixture of artificial intelligence (AI) and user detection. These are then sent to independent fact-checkers who place a flag next to hoax stories to alert readers.

The firm recently said it would start using "updated machine learning" to enhance detection.

"If an article has been reviewed by fact checkers, we may show the factchecking stories below the original post," added Sara Su, product manager of News Feed, in a blog.

A spokesman later clarified that these stories would not be "direct responses" to fake articles, but factually accurate reports that offered an alternative. (BBC)

I

f you're embarrassed about old photos on your Instagram feed or hate the filters you used in the early days of the app, you can finally hide them.

Instagram rolled out an update to the app that now includes the "Archive" feature, which lets you move photos off your feed and to a space only you can see.

You can still see any archived post and even move it back to your feed. The feature should be good news to

anyone who wants to hide bad selfies, photos of ex significant others, or non-aesthetically pleasing photos.

See how to use the new feature, available in the latest version of Instagram, ahead.

First, go to your profile and pick a photo.

Then, tap the three dots at the top right corner of a photo. Pick the ‘archive’ button.

To see archived photos, go back to your pro-

file. At the top right of your profile, you'll see a clock icon; that's where your archived photos are. Tap the icon to see the photos.

Move archived photos back to your feed.

Move back an archived photo by clicking on the photo that’s in ‘archive’ then tap on the three dots in the top right corner. Select "Show on Profile" and you're done.

The photo will go back to where it was originally in your feed.

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

AUGUST 6, 2017

Bollywood/Hollywood

Camila Cabello talks Taylor Katrina to Sidharth Malhotra: ‘I’m always around for cuddles’ Swift, bad friendships and going solo

L

ast December, Camila Cabello devastated Fifth Harmony fans when she announced her shock departure from

one of the world's biggest girl bands.

But her pursuit of a solo career didn't come as a huge shock to those who watched Camila dominate every performance, and saw her social media following grow to more than the rest of the group combined.

Following the success of her debut solo hit, “Crying in the Club”, the 20-year-old superstar has today dropped two new singles – “OMG” featuring US rapper Quavo and Havana featuring Young Thug. Her debut album, The Hurting, The Healing, The Loving, is set for release later this year.

"Most of the songs are about a friendship, and then a couple are about boys or even situations that I’m observing from afar. I have all of these notes in my phone from me venting or ranting, so I’ll go into the studio and write about it," Camila said.

When asked the question if she would ever collaborate with pal Taylor Swift, the singer replied: “That would be really cool, I'd be down. She’s a great writer.” (Glamour)

George Clooney 'to sue' French magazine for twins' photos

G

eorge Clooney is threatening to sue a French magazine for publishing photos of his twins.

The actor said in a statement: "Over the last week photographers from Voici magazine scaled our fence, climbed our tree and illegally took pictures of our infants inside our home."

Voici printed the pictures on Friday, claiming they were the first images of Ella and Alexander.

The magazine says there was "public demand" for the photos.

Amal Clooney gave birth to the children in London in June. The couple haven't released photos of them.

They were at their home in Lake Como, Italy, when the Voici photos were taken.

George Clooney released a statement condemning the magazine for publishing the grainy shots on its front cover.

"Make no mistake, the photographers, the agency and the magazine will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The safety of our children demands it," he said.

Voici argued that publishing the photos was in the

public interest.

"People love George Clooney and have been following his life story for years now," a statement from the magazine says.

"The birth of their twins, Ella and Alexander, has also been commented a lot, by themselves and their families.

"Those pictures do not put in danger Mr Clooney, his wife or their kids." (BBC)

T

other, it's not a coincidence that a song or an album or something will be released soon thereafter. They consciously use each other for their own advantage. All the way to the bank!"

However, a real romance is not completely beyond the

realm of possibility. Drizzy was previously reported to make it "blatantly clear from the get go that he was super into" the "Anaconda" rapper. He was even caught checking out Nicki at the celebrity soccer game.

he also uploaded a video for Katrina Kaif.

Sharing the video, Sidharth wrote, “To the one and only @katrinakaif - you make all our hearts skip a beat! #Chandralekha #AGentleman @jacquelinef143.”

Sidharth has often con-

he toddler adopted by Bollywood actress Sunny Leone last month had been turned down by 11 prospective parents before she could find a family, says adoption agency CARA. “Without looking at colour, background and health status, Sunny Leone happily took the child in adoption.

We respect that they didn’t try to bend the rules and stood in the queue like all the other parents,” said Child Adoption Resource

A

N

icki Minaj and Drake have been making headlines as they are rumoured to be dating after allegedly flirting and canoodling at a nightclub in Miami last week. Multiple sources said that they have always had "a complicated relationship," but one thing that people want to know is whether they are dating.

"Nicki & Drake have liked each other more than just friends in the past but most of their flirting nowadays is done because they know that people will talk about it and it puts them in the news," an insider reveals to HollywoodLife.com.

"It is mostly business-related flirting."

The insider goes on explaining, "Because shortly after they flirt with each

B

ollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra has been flooding his timelines with custom-made versions of the latest song from his upcoming film “A Gentleman, Chandralekha”.

Apart from sharing videos for Alia Bhatt, Shah Rukh Khan and Sonakshi Sinha,

amir Khan has launched the trailer of “Secret Superstar” in India, USA, UK, Middle East and Singapore. The trailer was unveiled first in India and released later in other countries via web video conference.

Aamir, his wife, Zaira Wasim, director Advait Chandan and Sujay Kutty interacted with the media of respective countries through video conferencing. The trailer of the film has been praised by everyone and has generated overwhelming response.

Going by the trailer, it seems like Aamir interestingly will neither be playing the lead in the movie nor a cameo. It’s being billed as an extended guest appearance.

The “Dangal” star plays a goofy rock star in “Secret Superstar”, a character that will supposedly be the mentor to the character of Zaira Wasim. (Hindustan Times)

fessed that he has a crush on Katrina and the latest Instagram post only proves it.

Interestingly, Katrina replied to him in a fresh Instagram post. “Awww Sid .

Saw ur post ..That did make me smile . ☺ I’m always around for when skipped heart beats are required or piggybacks or cuddles or dancing .... Jacqueline I’d post a pic of me and you cuddling also but alas I do not have one ............. yet @ s1dofficial @jacquelinef143 #AGentleman,” she wrote, sharing a picture with him.

“A Gentleman” is directed by Krishna DK and Raj Nidimoru and is slated to release on August 25.

(Hindustan Times)

Agency (CARA) CEO Lt Col Deepak Kumar.

On completing all the formalities, the actor was allowed to take the child from Latur in Maharashtra into pre-adoption foster care and is now awaiting a court order which will declare the couple the legal parents of the child.

(Hindustan Times)

guyanatimesgy.com

AUGUST 6, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

AUGUST 6, 2017

Fun Times

Archie

Helping others or doing a ARIES good deed will make a last(March 21- ing impression and boost April 19) your reputation. Socialize with others or take part in an event that requires high energy.

Don't let what others do TAURUS sway you. If someone is act(April 20- ing impulsive, you are best May 20) off keeping your distance and protecting your possessions, assets and personal information.

Taking a day trip or parGEMINI ticipating in something you (MAY 28- feel can make a difference to June 20) someone or to your community will be satisfying. You will meet someone extraordinary.

Get together with friends or relatives. The information di(June 21vulged at a gathering will help July 22) you make an important decision that will influence your spending habits and lifestyle.

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Peanuts

Your generosity will be taken advantage of if you try to impress someone or buy love. Offer only what you can afford and let your popularity rely on your sparkling personality.

Use your imagination when dealing with children or someone you want to collaborate with. A change to your appearance or in your social group will enhance your reputation.

Channel your energy into making your place comfy and convenient, but don't make changes without first getting the consent of anyone who may be affected by them.

Make a promise to someone SCORPIO special. Don't expect everyone (Oct. 24- to agree with a decision you Nov. 22) make regarding your personal life or relationships. Follow your heart and do what's best for you.

The past will be your SAGITTARIUS guide to making wise choic(Nov. 23es in the future. Don't trust Dec. 21) someone who doesn't live up to your expectations. If you want something done right, do it yourself.

Calvin and Hobbes

Reconnect with an old CAPRICORN friend. You'll be intrigued by (Dec. 22- the information you are givJan. 19) en, but that doesn't mean you should invest in someone else. Indulgent situations and tendencies are best avoided.

You have more options AQUARIUS than you realize. Take time (Jan. 20- to go over personal docuFeb. 19) ments that will give you a better understanding of a situation that has the potential to improve your life.

Impulsive reactions to PISCES (Feb. 20- emotional situations that stem Mar. 20) from an assumption someone

makes will result in anger or regret. Minor accidents will occur if you aren't careful.