Magazine

Sunday December 18, 2016

Times

Star Times Hollywood:

Meghan Markle is the ‘most Googled celebrity woman of 2016’ See story on page 12

Magazine

Christmas Page 3

postage stamps A Guyanese collection

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Feed a Child for the Holidays

Sharing the spirit of Christmas Page 2

Sorrel drink and the holidays Page 4

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

In Tribute to E. R. Braithwaite (1912 -2016) Page 6

The flair in the fashion of Francois Designs Page 10 Recipe of the Week

Coconut EggnogPage 18

2 Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Feature

Feed a Child for the Holidays

Some of the members handing over supplies to a children home in 2015

F

eed a Child for the Holidays is a vibrant group of humanitarians who enjoy giving back to their communities and spreading Christmas cheer.

Established in December 2007, Feed a Child for the Holidays is a private nonprofit group dedicated to making a humanitarian effort to share the spirit of Christmas. The group endeavours to bring gifts, food items, basic necessities, encouragement and love to the less fortunate children in Guyana.

Feed a Child for the Holidays objectives are

to raise awareness of the plight of orphaned children in Guyana and to provide assistance – whether emotional, financial or physical – to under-privileged children, wherever they may be.

The group is made up of young professionals and students, Tannylee Fung, Schemel Patrick, Natasha Backer, Teisha Milner, Keisha Assanah, Rhonda Bourne, Maren Oxford, Dionne Cush and Alana Lowton, who are determined to continue to bring joy and love to children who really need it.

In an interview with

Sunday Times Magazine, Schemel Patrick said every year herself and team endeavour to put smiles on children’s faces by extending their love, time and support.

“This year, we’re hoping to do things a bit differently. We envision going beyond the usual gifts and treats. This year, we have asked the homes to tell us what some of their essential needs are so that we can try our best to fulfil them – allowing them to have a good time – even after the Christmas season. Over the past nine years, we’ve

received tremendous support from a number of individuals and organisations, this year we hope to continue to have that support. We also would like to encourage more persons to take part in random and simple acts of kindness, not only at Christmas, but throughout the year,” Schemel encouraged.

This year, Feed a Child for the Holidays will be reaching out to four homes: The Red Cross Convalescent Home; the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre; the Sophia Care/DropIn Centre, and it plans on making donations to the Cheshire Home in Mahaica.

On visits to the homes, members of Feed a Child for the Holidays usually have lunch or snack with the children and present them with gifts and other goodies.

“Every year we are fortunate enough to make our contributions entirely from donations by public spirited citizens and corporate Guyana. We utilize our Facebook page to solicit support; we encourage persons to message, call or reach out to one of the members of the group if they’re desirous of contributing to one or more of our activities. We also partner with youth organisations, in the past we have partnered with the Guyana Girl Guides Association and last year, the Caribbean Youth Environment Network – Guyana. The response is always overwhelming,” Schemel noted.

According to Schemel, during the festive season, people are always looking to Supplies donated

by Feed A Child for the Holidays to the children homes

Toys and much needed essentials like these are welcomed

Members busily packing goodies for the children

participate in one goodwill activity or another, and as an established group, Feed a Child for the Holidays provides that platform for persons to make worthy donations to various children’s groups all in the spirit of giving.

“I think it is important that we express heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has assisted us in one way or another over the years. Our corporate sponsors over the years have been German’s Restaurant, Sterling Products, Edward B. Beharry and Company, Ansa McAL, Lasleek Fashions and DIGICEL. This

year we welcome the Sticky Wicket Restaurant and Bar, Leading Edge Guyana and Massy Distributions,” she expressed.

Apart from Christmas gifts, Feed a Child for the Holidays welcomes food and school supplies, basic necessities and clothing for children.

For updates on activities and information on how you can make a difference in the lives of children this Christmas, visit Feed a Child for the Holidays on Facebook, or call 687-5363 and 699-7704.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine

3

Times Feature

A Guyanese collection

The controversial 'Millie' stamp (1967)

Christmas stamps in 2010

By Ann Wood

C

hristmas is one of the most celebrated holidays worldwide, and its admiration has extended to the creation of Christmas postage stamps.

Christmas postage stamps have become a postal tradition in most parts of the world and are a very popular topic in thematic philately. Many people enjoy finding and collecting Christmas stamps, which are easy to find and a small cost, due to the quantities printed.

It is generally accepted that the first postage stamp for Christmas was issued in 1937 by Austria – the rose and zodiac stamp. However there are differing opinions on this.

In 1898, Canada issued a stamp that bears the inscription "Xmas 1898", but it was intended to mark the inauguration of the "Imperial Penny Postage" rate. There are those who believe this to be the first Christmas stamp.

Also in 1935, British Forces troops stationed in Egypt were supplied with a Christmas stamp to mail letters home, and some say this is the first Christmas stamp.

Many other nations took up the practice of printing Christmas stamps, including the United States (1962),

Canada (1964), United Kingdom (1966) and Guyana (1967).

The first official U.S. Christmas stamp was issued in 1962. Anticipating a huge demand for the new Christmas stamp, 350 million were printed – the largest number produced for a special stamp until that time.

The red and green 4-cent stamps featured a wreath, two candles, and the words “Christmas 1962”. The initial supply sold out quickly and more were printed. By the end of 1962, one billion stamps had been printed and distributed.

The first Guyana Christmas stamp was released in 1967 featuring the swearing macaw “Millie”, which caused some controversy among the Christian community. Guyana has since issued several holiday commemorative stamps, such as Easter, Independence Day, and Phagwah, among others.

How to start a Christmas stamp collection

Since it is the holiday season, you may look for these Christmas postage stamps circulating on Christmas mail, so collecting them is easy. While these stamps may not become valuable treasures, they are still fun

Guyana Christmas stamps in 1972

to collect due to their decorative designs and vibrant colours.

There are many post offices in the U.S. with Christmas related names where you can obtain special Christmas postmarks.

Interested customers can write to these post offices for postmarks to keep or to share with friends. Enclose a stamped, addressed card or letter in another envelope or box labelled “Christmas re-mailing” and address it to the postmaster of one of the towns listed below.

Please note that U.S.A. postage in the amount of USD$1.15 is required on a personalized envelope for mail returning to Guyana.

Notably, it is easy for customers to have their greeting cards postmarked from the North Pole. Simply place postage stamps on personalized, sealed, and addressed greeting cards and place them into a larger envelope

or box addressed to: POLE POSTMARK POSTMASTER 4141 POSTMARK DR ANCHORAGE AK 99530-9998

Ann Wood is president of the Guyana Philatelic Society. Visit www.guyanastamps.com for more information on stamp collection. (Cover photos: Guyana Christmas stamps in 1969 and 1970)

Christmas FL 32709 Santa Claus IN 47579 Bethlehem PA 18016 Holly CO 81047 Nazareth KY 40048 Garland ME 04939 Shepherd MT 59079 Wiseman AR 72587 Rudolph WI 54475

Christmas stamps featuring fruits found in Guyana

1973 stamps depicting 'steel band players' (top) and the 'stained-glass window (Lady Chapel) at St. Philip's Anglican Church' (bottom)

4

Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Feature

Tasty glass of sorrel drink

H

Crimson sepals used to make the drink

ave you ever thought about how sorrel drink became part of our culture, especially at Christmas? Well, it is believed that sorrel may have come from Africa to the Caribbean since the 1700s.

The sorrel plant is an annual shrub, normally planted in August and reaching maturity in December.

After flowering, the sorrel petals fall of leaving the sepals (fruit) and these become enlarged and turn crimson as they mature. A beverage made from the fruit of the sorrel plant is made by

steeping the sepal in hot water with ginger for about 24 hours. It is then decanted and sugar is added and rum, if desired.

Sorrel drink is called by other names reflecting its country origin. For instance, in Latin America it is referred to as agua de flor de Jamaica; in North Africa, it is called karade; and in the Ivory Coast this red beverage is called da bilenni (where the plant itself is called da).

However, many think of this plant as being useful only to make a drink.

For this reason, the rest of

Sorrel plants

the flower is discarded without much thought. Cultures around the world have been growing and using sorrel for centuries, in everything from soups and salads to vegetable side dishes and the creation of strong tea.

The high content of oxalic acid in sorrel makes it poisonous to a small degree, so intake should be regulated. In smaller quantities, eating sorrel is completely harmless. The oxalic acid is also responsible for the tart, tangy taste that is almost reminiscent of wild strawberries or kiwi. The leaves are the major part of the plant that is eaten or used in culinary preparations. Sorrel is also a key element in a number of different tea preparations due to its strong antioxidant compounds, including the famous Essiac tea.

Notably, sorrel has a vast array of health benefits associated with it. Along with being a unique flavour in your dishes, sorrel also provides significant amounts of fibre, very few calories, almost no fat, and a small amount of protein. In terms of vitamins, it is rich in vitamin C and also contains vitamin A, vitamin B-6, iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium.

For digestive health, the high content of dietary fibre that can be found in most varieties of sorrel mean that your digestive health can be improved by adding these leaves to your soups and salads. Dietary fibre adds bulk to food as it moves through the digestive system, improving your gastrointestinal health and reducing conditions like constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, and

cramping, as well as more serious gastrointestinal issues.

Dietary fibre can also help to reduce total cholesterol in the body, thereby protecting heart health and reducing chances of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

Also, sorrel has a very significant level of potassium (1 cup contains 15 per cent of your daily recommended intake), which is an essential mineral for human health.

Potassium is a vasodilator, as well as being instrumental in maintaining fluid balance throughout the body. This means that potassium reduces the stress on the cardiovascular system by relaxing the blood vessels and arteries. Lowered blood pressure reduces the chances of dangerous clotting and excessive strain on the heart that can lead to coronary heart disease and other complications.

For eyesight improvement, sorrel is recommended. Vitamin A, another of the essential vitamins found in sorrel, has been closely connected to the improvement in eyesight and a reduction of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Beta-carotene, which is a derivative of vitamin A, acts as an antioxidant, and combined with the other important antioxidant compounds in the body, sorrel can greatly boost eye health and prevent age-related degradation of that vital sense.

Vitamin C content in sorrel is impressive (a single cup of sorrel contains 106 percent of your daily recommended intake), which means that

your immune system can be optimized and brought up to full strength when you add this to your diet. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, stimulates the immune system and increases the white blood cell count in the body, which is the first line of defence against pathogens and other foreign invaders in the body.

Vitamin C also helps to reduce swelling, prevent scurvy, and even has analgesic (pain relief) properties when consumed in high quantities.

The significant levels of iron in sorrel mean that it boosts red blood cell production and prevents anaemia (iron deficiency). Increased circulation boosts oxygen levels throughout the body in the vital organs, boosts hair growth, increases energy levels, and speeds up the healing process (in conjunction with the protein content of sorrel).

US-based Guyanese food blogger Jehan Powell (www. jehancancook.com) shares her traditional recipe and a modern twist to sorrel drink.

Jehan's sorrel lemonade

Traditional Sorrel Drink Ingredients: 4 cups water 1/2 cup dried sorrel

1 cinnamon stick 10 cloves 1 inch peeled piece of ginger Sugar to taste

Method: Add all ingredients in pot and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat. Remove all solids by straining. Chill and serve over ice.

Sorrel Lemonade Ingredients: 4 cups water 2 tbsp dried sorrel 1 cup lemon juice

1 cup sugar 2 cans Canada Dry Mandarin Orange Sparkling Seltzer Water

Method: Place water and sorrel in a small pot and bring to a boil. Boil for 15 minutes; you can boil it for longer and allow it to steep if you prefer a stronger sorrel flavour.

Remove from heat and strain, reserving the liquid. Discard the sorrel. Stir in sugar and allow to cool completely. Add lemon juice and cold seltzer then place in the fridge to chill.

To make the Limeade, mix 3/4 cup lime juice, 1 cup sugar, 4 cups waters and stir until sugar dissolves. Add 2 cans of Lemon Lime sparkling water and about 5 dashes of bitters.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Times Women

B

orn in Brooklyn, New York, to a Guyanese father and Barbadian mother, philanthropist and entrepreneur Okema Moore is proud of her South American and Caribbean heritage, which is the foundation of her inspiration.

Okema is the owner and CEO of MOORE Than Enuff Media, which serves as home base for her solo endeavours and business clientele, providing services such as content creation across platforms, brand development, writing/editing services, public speaking, media services and mentoring.

Performing on stage in Brooklyn, NY

with my father.

GGR: What made you pursue a career in entertainment?

Okema Moore: It started as a child. I was often with my grandmother when I was younger and to keep me preoccupied on weekends, my mother enrolled me in acting, dance, music…anything to keep me busy. In 1985, I landed a role on a season of “Sesame Street” and from there I went on to join an allgirl group in Brooklyn called Cuties In Affect (C.I.A.).

We toured with Black Expo opening for artists such as SWV, Joe and Intro. We also

Okema (left) interviewing Gail King, 'O Magazine' Editor-at-Large

Okema is also very passionate about philanthropy and community service.

Below is an excerpt of her interview with Guyanese Girls Rock (GGR).

GGR: Tell us a little about your family history.

Okema Moore: My father is Guyanese…and for many years I thought I was too, but I was born in Brooklyn. As a child I spent my early childhood between Guyana (South Ruimveldt, Georgetown), Brooklyn and travelling the Caribbean with my father. My mom’s family is Bajan and Southern and all of my paternal family is Guyanese dating back many generations. I consider myself a GuyaneseBajan to honour both of my parents’ background, but I most closely identify with Guyana, as I spent so much time there growing up versus Barbados. However, I’ve visited Barbados a few times

performed with the likes of Biggie and Tupac (on the same stage together in 1993 at Jack the Rapper).

We were later signed to a record deal (my first and last) and our deal was with Tamar Braxton’s husband, Vincent Herbert and Aaliyah’s uncle (and Gladys Knight’s ex-husband) Barry Hankerson. There were issues with the label and we got shelved. I went on to graduate high school and college then moved to the Philly Delaware area. There I learned a lot about singing and performance, as a solo artist as well as a background singer. I worked with Musiq Soul Child and did backgrounds on his second album. However, I learned a lot of what to and not to do through many of those experiences. I’ve been blessed to learn, train, grow and build a much respected brand across several disciplines in

entertainment and media.

Now I have added writer, producer and director to the list.

GGR: What would you say is your biggest accomplishment?

Okema Moore: To date I think my proudest, though not my biggest accomplishment, is that many people connect with me to tell me how much I inspire them. I get so much amazing feedback via social media about how my transparency in hard times, my blogs and my energy encourages them.

To me, that is proof positive that I am living in and fulfilling my purpose on this earth. Being able to assist others – creatives specifically – with feelings of being overwhelmed or self-doubt or fear…that is amazing!

GGR: Have you received any recognition or awards for your work?

Okema Moore: I have co-authored, directed and starred in four short plays that all won the Audience Choice Award in the NY Theatre Festival (Nov. and Dec. 2012, Oct. 2103, May 2014). I have produced and did voice over for a single spot in 2102 for the Rhode Island Film Festival that was nominated for a regional Emmy Award in New England, Best Scene in the 2015 October Film Festival Actor Contest, 2014 Beauty and the Beat Heroine of Excellence recipient, 2nd Place Winner in 2013 at The famous Amateur Night at the Apollo, 1st Place Winner in the Paul Mooney Almost Famous Vocal Competition 2014, Grand Prize Winner of the DREAMGIRLS Online Vocal Competition DreamWorks Films 2011; featured on many websites and in a score of print and digital magazines. I am also a member of SAG/ AFTRA, Equity Membership Candidate, NY Women in Film & Television member, Independent Film Project member, Member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. (Spring 98, Alpha Pi Chapter).

GGR: What might someone be surprised to know about you?

Okema Moore: I have survived a host of traumas in my lifetime. But I have overcome much of it and continue to heal and progress through professional therapy, prayer and a huge support system. I find, especially in communities of colour, or old school West Indian based homes, therapy is looked down on and mental issues are often over looked or brushed over. However, I truly support the need for and use of professional help.

It’s a way to overcome, attack your issues head on and prevent functional depression, suicide and the like.

GGR: What’s your advice for young girls who want to pursue a career like yours?

Okema Moore: My advice would be to learn all that they can. Also, I’d en-

Okema Moore

courage them to be organized and competent in every aspect of their craft, and to expand themselves to do a series of related things across the board. Be your best at each thing, but be diverse in your disciplines.

Lastly, you are greater than your gender, your socioeconomic standing, your fears, your failures and your haters. So go out and be the best in spite of all of that!

GGR: What are your future plans?

Okema Moore: I will be releasing a short film that I co-wrote, directed, produced and star. It’s titled, “Mars & Venus: Operation Equilibrium”. I also have several speaking engagements throughout New York

addressing young people about being amazing and pursuing creative careers.

I am always energized and encouraged when I speak to young people; they really remind me why it’s important to be mindful of what I do and say. Overall, I am just really excited about all that God has for me to do in this crazy business and the lives that will impact me, and especially those I will impact.

I also hope to get back to Guyana soon. It’s been almost three decades since I was home…it’s about time!

Currently, Okema is shooting the film “Spike Lemonade.” To follow her work, visit www.moorethanenuff.com (http://guyanesegirlsrock.org)

6 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Book World The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

By Petamber Persaud

In Tribute to E. R. Braithwaite (1912 -2016)

E

TV screen shot of interview with E.R. Braithwaite in 2012

.R. Braithwaite is the author of “To Sir with Love” (1959), “Paid Servant” (1962), “A Kind of Homecoming” (1962), “A Choice of Straws” (1965), “Reluctant Neighbours” (1972), and “Honorary White” (1975).

In 2012, Braithwaite returned to his country of birth as guest of honour of the National Library. The library celebrated the author’s centenary with a number of activities, including the staging of the Guyanese version of the famous novel, “To Sir with Love” at the National Cultural Centre.

The occasion attracted a capacity crowd.

During his visit, Braithwaite was honoured by the Government of Guyana with the country’s third highest national award, the Cacique Crown of Honour [CCH]. I had the honour and pleasure of interviewing Braithwaite on

my television programme, running now for 14 years.

The following is an extract of that interview with E. R. Braithwaite on August 29, 2012.

PP: What were some of the factors that influenced or drove you towards a writing career?

ERB: I don’t quite recall but I did love reading. And at some point I said to myself: I can do that. Therefore, I started to write from within myself about the things I knew and understood. So that’s how my first book came about.

PP: It is said to write well, one must also be wellread. What were some of the literature material you were reading at that time?

ERB: Well, I read all the literature I could afford. And that I found in the public library. I read books

by Daniel Defoe, …I read Robin Hood, I read anything I could get my hand on that was inexpensive. That was

my primary source of books – the public library.

PP: What other source or sources were available in getting books?

ERB: There were bookshops; people were selling books but the books were too expensive for me; I couldn’t afford any of them.

PP: Let’s look at your formative years in Guyana.

Who were some of the people with whom you associated? Especially mention some of those who were avid readers.

ERB: There was Cecil Cunha. There were many, many…names of people I can’t readily remember now.

But we would read books, discuss them, and mention them to one another. If there was a particular book that I enjoyed, I would mention it to Cecil Cunha and he in turn would mention it to another. So there was a run on the books in the library; we would keep the librarians busy.

PP: Beautiful!

That’s

a great way to read. After consuming the book individually, you came together as a group to discuss the book. What you and your colleagues have done was to build a social space to share ideas. So now we could pinpoint at least one factor leading you to a writing career – reading. There were other factors of course….

ERB: Yes, I remember my headmaster. His name was Richard Persico….

PP: Of which school?

ERB: Of St Ambrose. He spoke of books so lovingly.

He spoke of books as if there were personal friends.

PP: This brings to mind a poem by John Agard: “Books make good pets” …go on.

ERB: Yes, he spoke of books and reading in a way that made me long to become familiar with books.

PP: Hats off to teachers with the interest and insight to guide students into the kingdom of books and the joys of reading. Later we could talk about books that made a difference in the world. Let’s move on to your first book, “To Sir with Love”; how did that book come about?

ERB: That came about in a rather humdrum way.

PP: Humph!

ERB: I was at home one day doing nothing. I had read a book about which I had mixed feelings. And I expressed myself vehemently…and I think it was my landlady who said why complain, could you do better and I said why not. It was afterwards that I thought about my answer, why not.

PP: And I supposed it

Edward Ricardo Braithwaite in the early 1960s

kept haunting you?

ERB: Yes, until one day I got some notepaper and I sat down and wrote about the things that mattered to me.

And when I was finished, I said to my landlady, I have written a book. Her response was why show me, do something about it. I wrapped it up and took it to a publisher who told me very courtesy to leave it there and someone will read it. So I left it on the counter and went home.

PP: Encounters with publishing – this should be interesting….

ERB: When this man called to tell me, they liked what I had written and will be publishing it, I was overwhelmed.

PP: That was your first effort?

ERB: That was my first effort – “To Sir with Love”.

PP: You were overwhelmed with the news that the book will be published, but how did you feel after the writing, after getting out of your system the things that were bothering you? You have finally gotten out what you wanted to say in a way that you wanted it

to be said and felt, how did you feel?

ERBI: still don’t know.

There was no sense of achievement. It was an initial effort. I didn’t know how it felt to be an author.

I wasn’t convinced that I was an author. I didn’t know what a publisher was looking for.

PP: Let’s now turn to the subject matter of the book – classroom dynamics. Your first job after being turned away again and again – a man with a bundle of academic qualifications, a scientist and a man with a background in the military, the Royal Air Force. So let’s now look at how the book evolved.

ERB: The feeling of writing had nothing to do with being in the classroom. The feeling of wanting to be a writer or writing something of consequence was there for a long time. It is difficult to explain…. (to be continued) Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@ yahoo.com

Cover of the 2012 Guyana Annual honouring the then 100-year-old ER Braithwaite

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Times Heritage

By Fred May

I

n or about the year 1743, Mr. Lodewyck Abbensetts, the alleged founder of the Lutheran Congregation in Berbice, called together a meeting of the members of the " Unaltered Augsburg Confession of Faith" then residing in that Colony.

At this meeting held October 15, 1743, it was resolved that a petition should be presented to the Directors (i.e., of the Berbice Association) and to the States-General of the Netherlands praying for the

free exercise of their religion, and the Rev. Consistory in Holland was requested to select a Minister.

The Consistory, before granting their request, suggested that they should wait until sufficient funds had been raised, and property secured for the support and maintenance of their establishment.

The Court of Policy whilst acceding to their request informed them that they would be expected to pay for the whole cost of their establishment themselves, as well as to contribute to the ordinary

Church fund equally and in the same proportion as all other inhabitants. The planters and the Dutch Reformed Church viewed all new religious bodies with suspicion The Local Authority went so far as to refuse them permission to place their Church (collecting?) Boxes in the taverns for receiving contributions, assigning for reason that, as the Lutheran Community had not to maintain the poor, this privilege could only be enjoyed by the Reformed or Established Church, which alone had the administration of the Poor

Lutheran Courts, New Amsterdam, Berbice which houses the Guyana Lutheran Music Academy today

Fund.

At this first meeting in 1743, six members were chosen to act as administrators or vestrymen and this continued until the arrival of their Minister in 1752. He on his arrival drew up a set of regulations which were confirmed, and registered in the Government Secretary's Office.

In 1763 the only buildings saved from pillage and fire from the then revolting slaves were the properties of this Community at Fort Nassau who placed them at the disposal of the Directors (Court) as a residence for the Governor and a hospital for the sick. In spite of this occupancy which lasted for over eleven years the Court would pay no rent for the use of the buildings.

In 1769 a step long contemplated (since 1753) was taken by petitioning the Court for a grant of 500 acres of land known as De Kleine "Maripaan ('Augsburg). The Court, however, put such a heavy tax on the acquisition of new land, that the plan of having an estate, had to be abandoned until sometime after, when the Community was allowed to pay the tax in ten annual instalments and Mr. Botzer then proceeded to lay out the estate (Augsburg).

Their funds being in very low water again, and the Receiver General pressing for acre money, some of the other members, Messrs. J. A. Pool and Co., and Mr. J. Van Nooten, of Amsterdam, advanced the required sum, more slaves were bought and an extension of the cultivation undertaken.

In 1774 their debts were so pressing that security for payments was made by a formal deed. In the year 1813 differences arose between the members, and the Court was petitioned by some of them to enquire into the management of their funds, depleted by mismanagement, the high death-rate of their Ministers, and the expenses incidental to bringing them from Holland to Berbice.

In 1832 the regulations win force for the guidance of the Community were very stringent to prevent self-interest in the management of its affairs " which shall be observed with great exactness."

In 1875 a Commission

In 1878 John Robert Mittelholzer, became the first Guyanese (black) pastor and began serving the Ebenezer Lutheran Church congregation. Mittelholzer was born in the Berbice River district

was appointed to enquire into the affairs of this body in consequence of a petition of one Joseph Hicken and others, under the chairmanship of Mr. Attorney General Haynes Smith. The dissension appears to have arisen out of the improper disposal of funds and the attempt to sell one of the properties.

Matters continued in this unsatisfactory condition until 1888 when a Bill to provide for the administration of the Funds of the Community was passed by the Combined Court.

One of the Community writing against the passing of the Bill stated that the Lutheran Community had always been considered a private body having acquired property by their own means and without help from the Directors of the Berbice Association — now represented by the Governor and Court of Policy, which property is held in the same right as other private property and with the same powers of free disposition. He stated the Government had recognised this liberty in the management of their Church establishment since 1743.

The Lutheran Community in Berbice appears from the records of the Government

Secretary to have been a mutual benefit society as well as a religious one, for they granted pensions, which I believe are still paid.

From earliest times their existence seems to have been a struggle, disturbed by internal discord, misappropriation of funds (if we can believe the petitioners), high death-rate of their Ministers and the cost of bringing men out, nor do they appear to have been recognised by the Directors of the Berbice Association or the Berbice Court of Policy, judging from the stringent rules laid upon them and absence of any monetary aid.

In spite of all there are still a few of them left in the Ancient County yet working and watching for the " promised Minister from their Fatherland."

There was a small community of Lutheran in the Colony of Demerary and Essequebo and they were supported by the profits of a Plantation called the " White Swan " about the year 1755 but not very much is known about them and to-day they do not exist. (Source: Timehri Journal Vol. V. 1918)

Amatuk Mountains, British Guiana

Barima River circa 1902

Ebenezer Lutheran Church and manse, New Amsterdam, British Guiana,

By Rev. Ralph White, New Amsterdam, B.G (Mid-19th century)

8 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 18, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Travel & Tourism

T

his festive season, there are numerous events happening locally that you cannot afford to miss. Two of them are the return of the Logos Hope, the world’s largest floating book fair, and the Holiday Arts, Craft & Music Festival at The Courtyard.

Logos Hope, which will offer over 5,000 different titles of books at affordable prices, will be visiting Guyana from December 22, 2016 to January 8, 2017.

During its last visit in 2009, more than 40,000 visitors enjoyed the offerings of the ship’s 20-day stay. This time, the ship will be stopping in Guyana before continuing on to Trinidad and Tobago, Curaçao, and other countries. The 400 crew members from 60 countries will be onboard to help welcome visitors.

The plethora of books onboard usually cover a wide range of subjects including science, sports, hobbies,

cookery, arts, medicine, and languages.

The opening hours will be from Tuesday to Saturday at 10am to 8pm; Sunday from 2pm to 8pm. The ship will be closed on Mondays. On Dec. 24 and 31, it will be opened from 10am to 2pm; however, it will be closed Dec. 25, 2016 and Jan. 1, 2017.

The entrance fee is GYD$100. Children under 12 years old will enter for free, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

MV Logos Hope is operated by GBA Ships e.V., an international charitable organisation registered in Germany. Since 1970, the organisation has welcomed over 45 million visitors up its gangways in over 160 countries and territories around the world.

Logos Hope will be docked at the La Penitence Wharf. For more information, visit ‘Logos Hope visits Georgetown, Guyana’ on Facebook.

So, after you have picked up some reading material from the Logos Hope, head over to The Courtyard Mall on Robb Street, Georgetown, for the Holiday Arts, Craft & Music Festival.

Deane-Hughes Designs and The Courtyard are hosting a Christmas festival entitled “Cre8ive’s Holiday Arts, Craft & Music Festival at The Courtyard” aimed at promoting and showcasing the local craft, art and music industries.

The festival focuses on eight areas in the creative sector: art, craft, entertainment, food, drink, dance, music and decor, while “encouraging us all to create to live as well as to create and live fully”.

You can catch the final leg of the festival on December 23 and 24 from 10am to 5pm at The Courtyard Mall.

For more information, call 225-3945.

A view of the book deck with its display of 5,000 books on board Logos Hope

Logos Hope docked in Guyana during its visit in 2009

Some of the crew members aboard Logos Hope (Photo taken on December 15)

Get a chance to see local rock band Feed The Flames at the Holiday Festival

Creative items like these can be bought at the Holiday Festival at The Courtyard Mall

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Times Healthy Living

D

uring Christmas, ham is a delicious appeal to many people, but those who have high blood pressure should not have too much or, in some severe illness conditions, it should be avoided. This is because ham – whether turkey or the traditional pork – is highly salted; too much intake of ham will worsen blood pressure and make it harder to be brought under control.

Even for healthy people, long term high-salt diet is a great risk factor for developing high blood pressure. Hypertension patients should have strict restriction on their daily salt intake within 2-5g. High-sodium foods include ham, bacon, sausage, pickles, chips and highly processed foods such as cheese, luncheon meats, canned soups, etc.

“In a three-ounce serving of most of these meats it’s easy to swallow 1,200 mg of sodium,” says The Nutrition Twins. And if you have high blood pressure you’ve already almost met your daily quota for sodium, which should be less than 1,500 milligrams per day.

In addition, condiments like mustard, soy sauce and ketchup are all high in salt and they should be limited or be replaced by low-salt seasonings like herbs and spices.

However, it does not mean you cannot eat ham at all if you have hypertension.

If at present your blood pressure is well controlled, you can have some ham, but do not have too much. Another good way to help you enjoy delicious ham without aggravating your blood pressure is to buy pre-cooked hams and cook it by yourselves with low-salt seasonings.

Reducing salt content in the foods can have immediate and obvious effect on lowering blood pressure, therefore if your blood pressure is very unstable and refractory to be controlled with medicines, it is better that you do not eat ham.

Advice: Steer clear of these meats or at least opt for reduce sodium varieties. Besides these foods that you should limit or avoid, there are also many other delicious foods that you can enjoy and some are beneficial for your high blood pressure. These beneficial foods include honey, celery, onion, garlic and carrots.

What is high blood pressure?

Blood is carried around the body in pathways called arteries and veins. If there is too much blood flowing through these pathways, blood pressure increases

Recent research has found that BPA canned foods may raise your blood pressure. BPA previously has been linked to a variety of ills, including heart problems, developmental problems in children and high blood pressure. The chemical is widely used in products ranging from plastic bottles and food containers to dental fillings and cash register receipts.

In cans, BPA is used as a lining, the researchers said. BPA stands for bisphenol A.

and hypertension develops.

Common symptoms

Most people with high blood pressure have no signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels.

Some may experience dull headaches and dizzy spells.

Managing high blood pressure

Maintain a healthy weight: Fat around the middle (tummy fat) releases substances that contribute to increased blood pressure and research has shown achieving weight loss improves hypertension and often leads to the use of less medication. Focus on making permanent, not temporarily, lifestyle changes, even if this takes some time. Ditch the diet mentality where you hope to lose weight fast. You will almost certainly resume your old eating habits and regain the weight.

Increase physical activity: Regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure and keep your weight under control. Strive for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.

Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit: 5-8 servings of vegetables and fruit should be consumed each day as they contain fibre, vitamins and minerals, especially potassium, which can contribute to a lower blood pressure. Try innovative ways to include vegetables into your diet by enjoying them in the form of a variety of salads, stir fries and even roasted.

Limit alcohol: Even if you're healthy, alcohol can raise your blood pressure.

If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation —

no more than 1 drink a day for women and no more than 1-2 drinks a day for men.

One drink is equal to 1 standard bottle or can of beer 1 medium size glass (150ml) wine or 1 tot (30ml) spirits.

Lastly but certainly not least, decrease the salt in your diet: It is recommended that you limit your intake of sodium to 2000 mg per day.

This equals a salt intake of 5 g (1 teaspoon) per day. This includes the salt added to food during cooking or at the table and the salt you consume in processed foods.

While you can reduce the amount of salt you eat by avoiding the saltshaker, you should also pay attention to the amount of sodium that's in the processed foods you eat, as mentioned above.

A low salt intake can be achieved by not adding any salt to your food after cooking; reading the labels of commercial food products, avoiding the addition of any salt to cooking, and using the salty spices sparingly while using salt free herbs and spices to add taste to the food.

Other foods to avoid

Other foods high in salt include table salt and seasoned/herbal salts, Bovril/ Marmite/fish paste, processed cheese spreads or wedges, potato chips, salted nuts and salted popcorn, salted savoury biscuits, butter and margarine, bread, breakfast cereals.

Frozen pizza – According to The Nutrition Twins, “The combination of salty foods spells trouble for blood pressure. The dough, tomato sauce, cheese and then processed meats added on top can cause an individual serving of frozen pizza to

clock in at close to 2400 mg sodium”.

Chinese food – The sauce in Chinese dishes is loaded with sodium. “Something as innocent-sounding as

Beef with Broccoli can have 3,752 mg sodium,” says The Nutrition Twins, and “that’s thanks to things used in the cooking like soy sauce and Teriyaki sauce that have about 1,000 mg of sodium in just a tablespoon.”

Ready-to-eat boxed meals and side dishes – Along with the convenience comes a hefty dose of sodium. A 5-ounce frozen turkey and gravy dinner can have 787 milligrams of sodium.

Half of a 16.5-ounce chicken pot pie can pack 800 milligrams of sodium.

Sugar-sweetened beverages: “We tend to associate excess sugar with higher blood sugar and diabetes” says Marisa Moore, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

“However, excess sugar intake has been linked to high blood pressure levels as well.”

Canned and pickled vegetables and vegetable juice – While a great substitute when fresh is not available, canned and pickled vegetables are typically laden with preservatives or sauces and seasonings that add extra sodium. A cup of canned

cream-style corn may contain 730 milligrams of sodium. Look for descriptions such as “no salt added” and “reduced sodium” on nutrition panels.

Bouillon/soup or stock powders/cubes/instant gravy powders, canned and instant soup – On average, a cup of canned chicken noodle soup contains as much as 760 milligrams of sodium.

Eat the entire can — which makes two-and-a-half servings – and you’ll get 1,800 milligrams of sodium.

Canned tomato products and tomato juice – Canned tomato sauce and tomato juice are loaded with sodium. One cup of tomato juice contains 680 milligrams of sodium. One serving of spaghetti with meat sauce has over 1,300 milligrams of sodium.

Apart from cutting down on salt and including more vegetables and fruit into the diet, it is also important to include low fat dairy foods as well as fish and legumes (all types of beans, lentils, chick peas) more often instead of high fat protein foods (meat and cheeses), deep fried foods and fast foods.

10 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 18, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Fashion

F

or his designing flair, Guyanese doyen of fashion Sidney L. Francois was recently presented with the Karib Nation Inc. 2016 Award of Excellence Fashion Innovation in Washington, DC. His most recent collection, The Garden City 2016 Collection, received accolades when it was presented in the U.S.A. and at the

Guyana Fashion Week 2016 held at the Pegasus Hotel.

Under his label Francois Designs, Sidney has been designing for over 16 years.

“I am inspired by nature. I love flowers, especially budding flowers, which inspired The Garden City 2016 Collection. I am so proud when I see local and international clients wearing my pieces; I feel truly blessed. In an effort to give

back, I am offering for the season 30 per cent off all designs. I wish all a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!” the designer said in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

For 2017, Sidney will be launching a new elegant collection, “Falling Roses”.

For more information, visit Francois Designs on Facebook or call 678-2647.

The designer (right) with one of his models at a recent fashion event

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

K

ehlani Ashley Parrish, born April 24, 1995, known professionally as Kehlani, is an American singer and songwriter. Kehlani achieved initial fame as a member of the teen pop group, Poplyfe, which was a finalist on America's Got Talent. She released her first mixtape, Cloud 19, in 2014. The album was listed among Complex's “50 Best Albums of 2014”. The singer’s second mixtape, You Should Be Here, debuted at number 5 on the national R&B/Hip-Hop chart in 2015 and preceded her sold-out North American promotional tour. In 2016, she was nominated for a 2016 Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album.

The songwriter collaborated with fellow singer-songwriter Zayn Malik on the track “Wrong” from his debut album, Mind of Mine.

Kehlani is also famous for her hit track “Gangsta”, a featured song in the DC Comics 2016 movie “Suicide Squad”. Her debut album, SweetSexySavage, will be released on January 27, 2017.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Hollywood

Meghan Markle is the Steve Harvey to host ‘most Googled celebrity Miss Universe 2016 F woman of 2016’ W

hen news broke in October 2016 that Prince Harry was dating Meghan Markle, her fame went through the roof.

Avid fans of the TV show “Suits” would have been familiar with Harry's new love, but for most, they were like, “Who is Meghan Markle?”

Every year Google reveals its top searches of the year and Meghan was crowned Google’s most-searched actress in 2016. She beat out names like French star Marion Cotillard (who came in at second on the list) and Best Actress Oscar winner Brie Larson (who was cast as Captain Marvel this year and came in fifth) for the top spot.

For actors, Brad Pitt’s divorce from Angelina Jolie got him to the top spot as the most-searched-for actor on the trending list this year.

As for musicians, Beyoncé topped the list - no doubt due to the release of her album Lemonade this year. Celine Dion was number two on the list following the death of her longtime love, René Angélil. (Glamour)

Zayn Malik talks Gigi Hadid, ‘Fifty Shades Darker’ and music

Z

ayn Malik opened up about how his romance with Gigi Hadid began in a new interview with radio station, Sirius.

When asked how he managed to bag the Victoria Secret model, Zayn revealed that actually, it was pretty straight forward.

“I just asked her, it was pretty straight up, I just asked her if she wanted to go on a date,” he said.

After discussing his new soundtrack for “Fifty Shades Darker” featuring Taylor Swift, the 23-year-old singer confessed that he has never watched the original movie or read any of the books, to which the radio DJ replied: “You lived the movie.”

Zayn then broke into laughter before saying, “I like that.”

The topic soon moved onto what the “Pillow Talk” singer does best, music. He told the radio presenters that fans can expect "exciting stuff." However, he didn't give much else away. When asked what he's got in the pipeline, he said: “Hopefully new music… I’m in the studio at the minute working on the second record." (Glamour)

Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds' daughters make debut public appearance

B

lake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' two adorable girls made their first ever public appearance on Thursday at the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

One-year-old James and her newborn sister, who was born in September, joined their parents on the famous walkway to celebrate their father’s Hollywood star. Blake's parents were also in attendance for the occasion.

While making his speech, Ryan took the time to thank the three loves in his life: “I want to thank my wife, Blake, who is sitting right there, who is everything to me. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me.You make

resh off one of the ugliest moments in beauty pageant history, Steve Harvey gets his shot at redemption.

The comedian is set to host next month's Miss Universe 2016 — one year after he accidently announced the wrong winner at the annual contest's 2015 show.

The ceremony is tapped for Jan. 29 in the Philippines, the home country of last year's eventual victor PiaWurtzbach.

Harvey's return is something of a surprise, considering the emotional rollercoaster he put the two finalists on last year. Then again, ratings figure to be through the roof.

Harvey occupies an infamous place in the pageant's 64-year history thanks to his unforgettable slip-up, which saw him originally declare Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez the winner on national TV before returning to the stage moments later to admit he'd made an error.

"OK folks. I have to apol-

ogize," he told the crowd.

"The first runner-up is Colombia. Miss Universe 2015 is Philippines."

Reigning title-holder Paulina Vega then literally lifted the crown off Gutierrez's head and placed it upon the stunned Wurtzbach.

Harvey attributed the crushing blunder to wrongly reading the cue card that deemed Gutierrez the runner-up. He ultimately took complete blame for the incident.

Fifth Harmony's singer charged with possession of marijuana

L

auren Jauregui landed in hot water. The Fifth Harmony singer was stopped by TSA at Washington Dulles

International Airport after cops were flagged down when a bag of marijuana was found inside her carry-on luggage.

Jauregui was reportedly arrested, but a lawyer for her girl group quickly set the record straight. The 20-year-old singer was not detained despite rumors to the contrary, so the attorney clarified, but she was simply cited for possession of marijuana.

"Lauren Jauregui was not arrested and detained as reported, but simply given a citation for possession of marijuana and released on her own recognizance," the lawyer Dina LaPolt said. "She will address the matter appropriately through the legal system. This will not interfere with any future scheduled performances or activities."

(AceShowbiz)

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everything better. You make everything in my life better. You’ve given me two of

the most incredible children I’ve ever hoped to have.”

(Glamour)

The following month, Harvey brought both Wurtzbach and Gutierrez on separate episodes of his daytime chat fest "The Steve Harvey Show" to apologize in person.

He even broke down in tears while offering his mea culpa to Gutierrez, who forgave him.

Harvey will be joined at the pageant by model Ashley Graham, who will serve as the backstage host.

(NY Daily News)

ichael Jackson’s son is thrilled to be carrying on the late icon’s legacy.

Prince Michael (born Michael Joseph Jackson Jr.) and Heal LA — the student organization for volunteering he works with at Loyala Marymount University, where he’s a sophomore — hosted their first annual Christmas Celebration at the Boys & Girls Club, Los Angeles Harbor.

Now 19, the legendary musician’s son opened up about how his father influenced the man he’s become, and also inspired his philanthropic pursuits.

“He taught me what it is to be a man; he showed me what it is to be a father,” Jackson tells PEOPLE of his dad. “For me, [I want] to pass

that on to my kids, or to help someone else who has kids.

My cousin TJ [Jackson]’s kids, I treat them as if they were my kids. I have fun with them, I love watching them. That being said, I do hype them up, and they do get wild around me, but I

think that would probably be the way to continue the teachings.”

As for his own passion for giving back, “That is something that my dad always did, and he instilled that in me and my siblings to keep doing it,” Jackson says. “I think it’s just the way that I was raised, honestly.”

Michael Jackson died of cardiac arrest on June 25, 2009, leaving behind Prince Michael and his siblings, sister Paris Jackson, 18, and Prince Michael “Blanket” Jackson II, 14.

“The more I do stuff like this, the more I realize how much of me it is, how big a part of me it is,” Prince Michael expressed.

(PEOPLE)

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Star Times Bollywood

H

arshad Arora is an Indian model and television actor.

He started his career as a model while pursuing a B.Sc. in Mathematical Science at the Delhi University. He also holds a Master’s in Advertising and PR. While Harshad modeled for various TV commercials, print advertisements and ramp walks, he was constantly flooded with television offers. He made several cameo appearances in thenpopular serials including “Punar Vivah – Ek Nayi Umeed” (May 2013), “Arjun” (June 2013), “Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev” (August 2013), and “Tumhari Paakhi” (November 2013). He landed the lead role in the 2013 serial “Beintehaa”.

Harshad’s constant growth as an actor outshone in various tracks of the show making him win several prestigious awards including Best Debut Actor (Zee Gold Awards 2014), Fresh New Face – Male (Indian Telly Awards 2014), Best Actor Popular (Indian Television Academy Awards 2014), and Best Actor (Kalakaar Awards 2015).

Currently, he is seen in the drama series “Dahleez”. Apart from his acting accolades, Harshad was voted as 19th sexiest man of Asia and 9th sexiest Indian Television actor in Sexy List poll conducted

by Asjad Nazir in 2014.

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Bollywood

Lata Mangeshkar: ‘I don’t Shah Rukh Khan inks listen to my songs too often’ new deal with Netflix

E

ver since she sang for the first time in 1942, Lata Mangeshkar made people sit up and take notice.

The singer went on to become a legend in Indian film music. In fact, the ‘Nightingale of India’ reveals that she completed 75 years in the industry this year. Interestingly, the chartbuster “Aayega aane wala” (“Mahal” 1949), which is believed to have turned her into a star singer, also completes 68 years on January 1, 2017.

Apparently, when the song first played on All India Radio (AIR), its phone lines were flooded with callers who wanted to know the singer’s name. AIR had to find out who the singer was from the record company before they could announce that Lata Mangeshkar sang the song.

Lata acted for the first time in the Marathi film “Pahili Mangalagaur” in 1942.

She also sang for the movie. After that, Lata sang and acted in other Marathi as well as Hindi films, the last one being “Mandir” (1948).

“We used to work in Master Vinayak’s (late actor-producer) company, Praful Pictures…There was a cameraman in the company who was also our neighbour. One day, he said, ‘Lata, I know Baliji, and he wants a fresh voice for his new film’. So, he took me to Baliji. He heard my song and immediately took me for the [music] rehearsals. He recorded the song in two days. That’s how my journey started. From there, I went to Filmistan and Bombay Talkies (production companies). So, this is the 75th year since I started working.

“As far as film songs go, there are many songs of mine that I like. But I don’t listen to my songs too often. One record that’s my big favourite is Hridaynath’s (Mangeshkar; brother) ‘Chala Vahi Des’ and ‘Meera Bhajans’ (both albums feature the poems

S

and songs of the poet-saint Meera). I really like them,” she noted.

Addressing the rumour of“fallout” with sister Asha Bhosle, Lata said: “I’ve never had any fallout with any of my sisters.

There was never any competition between us because we used to sing very different kinds of songs. She had her own style, which was really good. So there was no scope for any competition. But Asha’s (right) first husband, Bhosle sahib (Ganpatrao Bhosle), was upset with me.He used to believe Asha wouldn’t get work because of me. But there was a time when Asha and I sung a number of duets, and many of them became popular as well. Later, when Asha came to our house, we used to stay together.Asha has a house next to ours in the neighborhood, but she doesn’t stay here anymore as she has bought a new house…” (Hindustan Times)

hah Rukh Khan’s production house Red Chillies and Netflix have inked a long-term deal that will give the web streaming giant’s more than 86 million viewers exclusive access to Bollywood superstar’s upcoming as well as past films.

It is first of a kind deal between Netflix and an Indian production house and the first title that will come on Netflix is Dear Zindagi, which was released theatrically on November25.

The agreement between Netflix and Red Chillies Entertainment (RCE), will also give its members both in India and around the world exclusive subscription video-on-demand access to dozens of RCE films as well as new films that will hit Indian theaters within the next three years.

“Red Chillies is surging ahead in global entertainment and for the first time, our great stories are going global on Netflix all at once and crossing all geographical barriers, waiting to be discovered over the world.

No more waiting for our fans wherever they are,” Shah Rukh said in a statement.

Apart from “Dear Zindagi”, SRK’s fans will also be able to watch films like “Happy New Year”, “Dilwale” and “Om Shanti Om”.

“Shah Rukh Khan is the most soughtafter actor in the Indian film industry, and

has played a huge role in bringing Indian cinema to the world stage. His monicker ‘King Khan’ speaks to his status as a cultural icon and to the incredible popularity of his films among audiences worldwide,” said Ted Sarandos, Netflix Chief Content Officer.

(PTI)

Govinda launches restaurant in Delhi

B

ollywood comedian Govinda on recently launched his restaurant named after his popular 1997 film “Hero No. 1” in Rajouri Garden area of west Delhi.

“I have a special connect

with the capital and liking for its people and culture. My friends always suggested me that Delhi needs a place that is No.1 and blends right music, right food and right ambience. So, ‘Hero No.1’ had to be here,” Govinda said in

a statement.

His wife Sunita and daughter Teena were also part of the event, with hosts of the evening and restaurateurs Amit Dua and Mann Dua. “We are proud to open a hub of fine dining lounge in the heart of west Delhi.

The place will offer a lavish gourmet experience to food connoisseurs. Guests can enjoy food from a multi-cuisine menu with live music.

Food and party lovers will now have a chic new place to hang out and chill with friends and family in West Delhi,” said the directors of the restaurant. (IANS)

Priyanka Chopra is UNICEF’s newest Global Goodwill Ambassador

P

riyanka Chopra is the latest A-lister to be named as a UNICEF global Goodwill Ambassador.

On Monday evening, the “Quantico” actress was appointed to the position at UNICEF’s 70th Anniversary celebration at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

“My involvement with UNICEF began almost 10 years ago in India. Today, I stand here humbled, enriched and committed, because of it. Thank you, UNICEF, for the amazing journey so far as well as this huge honor,” said Chopra, 34.

“Along this decade old journey, with UNICEF, I have been on many field trips to villages and centers across India. On those trips, I spent time with numerous young girls and their families and experienced firsthand the transformative power of empowering young girls with opportunities that are rightfully theirs,” Chopra, who celebrated her appointment alongside Ambassadors David Beckham and Orlando Bloom, continued. “Together, with my fellow, dedicated ambassadors, I am now proud to stand with UNICEF to help build a world where children’s rights are respected and protected.”

The actress has served with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund in India, where she has been a long-

time girls’ rights advocate.

Chopra joins a long list of celebrities who have held the position as a Goodwill Ambassador, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Selena Gomez, Joel Madden, Pink, Lucy Liu, Alyssa Milano and many more.

(PEOPLE)

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine

15

Times Trends

Trending NOW

Star of the week

C

hristmas is right around the corner, and there are a million traditional or non-traditional ways you could decorate your home for the holidays- so why not try the mannequin Christmas tree?

By using a plain dress form mannequin and with a bit of imagination, some fabric, lights, and a few evergreen boughs, you can create the latest trend: a unique and beautiful mannequin Christmas tree.

Here are some designs for inspiration.

O

dessa Grogan is a beauty with a purpose: she uses beauty pageants’ platforms to forward her humanitarian work. Currently, the accounts clerk is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, having completed her diploma in that field at the University of Guyana.Odessa’s first pageant competition was the Miss Guyana Universe 2016. Although she did not win the pageant, she was able to use that platform to promote her philanthropy work. Apart from pageantry, Odessa is very passionate about community service. Notably, she is a member of the Civil Defence Commission Volunteer Corps, which was developed to support the functioning initiatives of the Centres for Disease Control (CDC), the country’s national disaster organisation, particularly at the community level. Among other humanitarian causes, she routinely undertakes feeding programmes with friends and colleagues for vagrants in Georgetown. Additionally, Odessa’s philanthropic work incudes donations of essential supplies to orphanages, which she has done every Christmas since 2009.She describes herself as a “proud advocate for children; beautiful inside out; brainy, using it for the betterment of all; classy; undefined”.

Grogan enjoys Indian, Latin and modern dances, as well as acting and disc juggling.

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Art

Santa wreath

T

Lawanda Pillay

his festive season, the call is out for people to support local artisans.

From beautiful handcrafted decor, gifts and cards, the options are endless.

Sunday Times Magazine caught up with artisan Lawanda Pillay to talk about her mesmerizing Christmas wreaths. Lawanda is known for possessing a knack for creating beautiful things out of simple materials.

For her wreaths, she uses a circular Styrofoam base, which is then wrapped with paper ribbon. Geo mesh (a stretchy mesh material

which comes in a variety of sizes and colours) is used to create the wreath; the mesh is tied with ribbon at various sections to create the puffed look. The mesh is then gathered and secured to the base with hot glue. The wreaths are embellished with a large bow and different types of Christmas ornaments, including snowflakes, angels, pine cones – just to name a few. The wreath measures approximately 32 inches in diameter.

“I'm only doing my designs, but persons have the option of choosing their own

Elegant wreath in red decorated with snowflakes and other festive accents

colours. I urge persons to support your own, support local businesses. We have so many talented persons in Guyana who offer unique and quality products and services,” she declared.

Pillay started crafting from a tender age, but it was only in 2015 that she decided to focus on it as a career.

Her first exposure was at Wedding Expo 2015, where she decided to showcase her talent/services and managed to “wow” patrons.

Now, Pillay invests much of her time and love in creating one-of-a-kind pieces through her company, Hats Off Custom Decor.

She said she started the company to be an “independent woman”. According to Pillay, when she was a stayat-home mom, her laptop was basically her companion. Most of her time was spent browsing the internet and researching. She then joined pinterest.com (a visual discovery tool that you can use to find ideas for all your projects and interest).

On the site, she saw some amazing handcrafted items and fell in love with paper craft.

“I found myself becoming addicted to the site and started making samples pieces of my own. Of course they came out great, since I do have the natural ability.

I realized that this is what I wanted to do with my life; this is what I should be doing. I have so much hidden talent and I needed to make use of it. That's when I decided to start up my own little business and Hats Off Custom Decor was born,” Pillay recollected.

Now the artisan offers custom-made cake/favour boxes, invitations and greeting cards, party bags and gift bags made from cardboard, customized guest books, seating and menu cards, drapery and valances.

She also does interior decorating and designing services, whether it is a new home,

office or just renovations.

She adds a magical touch by incorporating her handmade decor, such as paper flower backdrops, which are currently being ordered for weddings and parties.

“The satisfying look on my customers’ faces after I've completed their items/ jobs and they're sincere sentiments are what keep me going. I spend hours researching and experimenting and the rest of it just come naturally. Come with any idea that you may have and once I can do it, I'll make it a reality,” she noted.

Customised Christmas themed wine bottle decor that can be used for table centerpieces

Drawing inspiration from like-minded individuals and everyday life, Pillay hopes to expand her business once she has the financial resources and clientele. She currently works from home and only makes

Festive decor

items upon request, but in the future she would like to have her own store, in which she would like to sell solely handmade items.

Visit Hats Off Custom Decor on Facebook for more info or call 651-4221.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 17

Times Tech

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intendo Thursday Dec. 15 debuted “Super Mario Run”, its first real smartphone game, starring its most iconic character, Mario, on

Apple's App Store.

A week earlier, Apple began offering visitors to its retail stores a sneak peek at the game, with a playable demonstration version

loaded onto the iPhones and iPads on display. Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto also sat for an interview in front of a packed house at Apple’s store in Manhattan.

Nintendo had previously resisted calls to put its classic characters into apps. However, just before Apple unveiled the iPhone 7 in September this year, Timothy Cook, Apple’s chief executive, had announced

“Super Mario Run” and invited Mr Miyamoto to show it off on stage.

People have been able to play Mario games on portable devices made by Nintendo since the early 1980s, but the release of

the new “Super Mario Run” represents the first time Nintendo has put out an instalment for devices made by another company - in this case, iPhones and iPads from Apple.

Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto speaks during the Apple launch event at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco, Sept. 7

Tech BYTE

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Old tires find new life as cleaner alternative to diesel

ecent attempts to recycle old tires have included more energy-efficient ways to break them down; using them as mosquito traps, and cutting them up so they can be stored more easily. Despite these and various legislative efforts to minimize the hazards posed by scrap tires, they are extremely hard to get rid of and there are still more of them than people know what to do with.

However, Australian startup Green Distillation Technologies (GDT) has shown that it is possible to get a cleaner blend of fuel by combining oil derived from old tires with diesel.

GDT, which was launched in 2009, has pioneered a recycling technology that it calls destructive distillation to solve the global problem of end-of-life tires that get discarded and end up in landfills and ille-

According to engineers from the Queensland University of Technology, (QUT) who subjected it to a series of rigorous tests, the results are highly promising: not only did it produce a fuel with reduced emissions, there was also no loss of engine performance when blended with diesel.

The researchers found a 30 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide, a greenhouse gas and air pollutant, as well as lower particle mass, which means fewer problems for emission treatment systems.

In addition, the oil can also be used as a heating fuel, which is what happens at GDT's facility, and further refined into automotive or aviation jet fuel.

While one might question whether a 30 percent reduction in pollutants is enough, the fact that the process helps cities get rid of end-of-life matter in an environmental-

Tech news

I

Instagram now has 600 million monthly active users

nstagram, the Facebook-owned company, announced Thursday that it has reached 600 million monthly active users, doubling its user base figure from 2014.

It also means Instagram added 100 million users in six months, its fastest growth rate ever. Instagram’s last milestone announcement was back in June of this year when it announced that it has reached the milestone of 500 million monthly users.

The company since then introducedIns-

tagram Stories, and the ability to delete followers from your private account and filter out abusive words this month, alongside a brief live video function to users in the US. Instagram is now twice the size of Twitter, which has a very different product, and has struggled with stagnating user growth. Instagram has also proved that Snapchat and all its Spectacles fun haven’t reduced its popularity and growth.

Amazon’s Bezos says meeting with Trump, tech leaders ‘very productive’

The process recycles end-of-life tires into oil, carbon and steel, leaving nothing wasted

gal stockpiles.

Similar to pyrolysis – the process by which organic materials are broken down by high heat in an oxygen-deprived environment – destructive distillation reduces whole tires into saleable oil, carbon and steel.

It differs from other recycling methods in that it is the only process in Australia at the moment that turns the rubber from these tires into a different form of energy.

Others merely change the shape or appearance of the rubber, points out GDT chief executive Craig Dunn.

Apart from heat, the process is emission- and waste-free, and since it processes whole tires, no labour or energy is needed to break them down.

ly sustainable manner is a step forward at least.

GDThas already received offers from at least one company to buy all the eight million litres of oil it will produce at its plant in Warren when it becomes fully operational next year, says GDT chief operating officer TrevorBayley.

It is expected to process about 685,000 (19,000 tons) car and truck tires a year – approximately three percent of what ends up being discarded each year.

Talks to build a plant in Tasmania, which currently has 900,000 tires waiting to be processed, are still ongoing, and a mining tire processing plant is also planned for either Queensland or Western Australia.

Apple CEO Tim Cook, right, and PayPal founder Peter Thiel, center, listen as Presidentelect Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with technology industry leaders at Trump Tower in New York, Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2016. (Seattle Times. AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

A

mazon.com CEOs Jeff Bezos saida gathering of tech titans Wednesday with President-elect Donald J. Trump had been “very productive,” and that the Amazon.com CEO emphasized to the incoming administration that innovation was key in creating new jobs.

Bezos, Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, Apple’s Tim Cook and other high-flying tech executives attended a meeting at Trump Tower in New York with the president elect and his transition team.

It was an encounter with a man who, as a candidate, rubbed many in the technology industry the wrong way with restrictive

views on immigration and other social issues.

Trump didn’t seem very happy with Big Tech either. He lambasted Apple for manufacturing iPhones abroad and singled out Bezos, who owns The Washington Post in addition to Amazon.

However, according to the Wall Street Journal, Trump sought to reassure the U.S. tech executives that he had their back. “We want you to keep going with the incredible innovation. There’s nobody like you in the world. … Anything we can do to help this go along, we’re going to be there for you,” he’s quoted as saying.

18 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Times Home & Cooking

guyanatimesgy.com

Recipe of the Week

Ingredients 4kg whole turkey 100g butter, at room temperature 4 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tbsp. lemon zest 1 tbsp. dried oregano

2 small lemons, halved 1 tbsp. pure olive oil 2 cups brown rice, cooked 1/2 cup currants 85g packet pistachios, toasted, chopped One egg, lightly beaten

C

hristmas candy décor is a fun and appealing way of decorating for children and adults alike. Be inspired to create your own candy décor with these ideas…

Method Preheat oven to 180C or 160C fan. Rinse turkey (including cavity) under cold running water and pat dry with paper towel.

Combine butter, garlic, lemon zest and oregano, and season well. Using fingers, gently loosen skin from breast meat and push butter mixture under skin.

To make the stuffing, combine rice, currants, pistachios and egg, and season well.

Fill cavity with the rice stuffing and then 2 lemon halves. Secure cavity with a skewer and tie legs with kitchen string. Place on a rack in a roasting pan, brush with oil and season well.

Squeeze remaining lemon over turkey.

Cover with foil. Bake for 1hr.

Remove foil and bake for another 1hr 20 minutes, or until juices run clear when a skewer is inserted in thickest part of the turkey. Rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Ingredients 1 pt. half-and-half 4 cinnamon sticks (3 1/2 in. long) 1 teaspoon whole cloves 5 large egg yolks 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk 1 can (14 oz.) coconut milk 1 1/4 cups light or dark rum ( optional) Ground cinnamon

Peppermint topiary created by hot gluing peppermints to a cone shaped foam then wrapping in red, white and silver ribbon

Preparation

Tie redand-white peppermint sticks around a vase of flowers with a red-and-white grosgrain ribbon

Heat half-and-half, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a saucepan, stirring, until boiling.

Remove from heat and let stand for 1 hour.

Strain and return to pan.

Whisk egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk into half-and-half. Cook, stirring

constantly over medium heat, until mixture reaches 160° (don't boil). Stir in coconut milk.

Let cool, then chill at least 3 hours and up to 3 days.

Buzz half of mixture at a time in a blender until frothy. Pour into a bowl and stir in rum if you like. Ladle into glasses and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.

Ingredients

Fill small jars with colourful sweets and place on candleholders for an attractive display

1 box of white cake mix, any brand 2 large egg whites ⅓ cup oil Frosting Christmas sprinkles

Method Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Combine the cake mix, egg whites, and oil, mixing well.

Roll the cookie dough into 2" balls and

place 2-3" a part on the baking sheet.

Using the bottom of a glass, gently press the cookie dough balls down to about ¼".

Bake 8-10 minutes, do not over bake.

Allow the cookies to cool and then generously frost and sprinkle.

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DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine19

Family Times

PARENTING

T

JOKES J

Please Santa

ust before Christmas, two brothers were spending the night at their grandma's house. At bed time, they knelt down to say their prayers.

As they closed their eyes, one boy said in a loud voice, "Dear Lord, please ask Santa Claus to bring me a Wii, a telescope and a new bike."

His older brother said, "Why are you shouting? God isn't deaf."

"I know," said his brother, "but grandma is."

Christmas request

"Here's a Christmas request I can't give," Santa said to Mrs. Claus.

"Why not?" asked Mrs. Claus.

"Here, read the letter."

Dear Santa, Will you please bring me some crocodile shoes for Christmas?

Thanks, Pete "But you have lots of crocodile shoes," said Mrs. Claus.

"Why can't you give him a pair?"

"Because he didn't tell me what size his crocodile wears."

O

Grandma's Christmas strategy

ne Christmas, a mother decided she was no longer going to remind her teenaged kids to send thank you notes. Consequently, the children’s grandmother never received any thanks for the Christmas cheques she sent to the kids.

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

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

A

Timothy's Christmas story

little boy returned from Sunday school with a new perspective on the Christmas story. He had learned all about the Wise Men from the East who brought gifts to the Baby Jesus. He was so excited he could hardly wait to tell his parents.

As soon as he arrived home, he immediately began, "I learned all about the very first Christmas in Sunday school today! There wasn't a Santa Claus way back then, so these three skinny guys on camels had to deliver all the toys! And Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer with his nose so bright wasn't there yet, so they had to have this big spotlight in the sky to find their way around!"

eaching the true meaning of Christmas to young children can be a daunting task when faced with the barrage of media and marketing hype that occurs during this festive season.

The secular commercialisation of what is part of Christian religious belief has been a cause for numerous debates and divisions over the years.

Teaching your child that Christmas is about giving rather than receiving should be a priority for parents that may help fend off the demands for only material things at Christmas in the years ahead.

There should be no expectation of returns or reward for giving. Many adults buy tickets for annual Christmas charity events such as a dinner, for example, and see only a financial loss if they do not “get their money’s worth”; that is not charitable, and is a bad practice for your children to observe. Be a good role model for your child.

Get your children to sincerely give

to the less fortunate by donating gifts – not just giving away only what is not

wanted or already used. One of the problems with this Christmas “charity” is that arguably, giving away only unwanted belongings or what you no longer have use for may not teach your child genuine charity.

Let your child spend some of his or her savings (from family or relatives’ monetary gifts during the year) to purchase a gift for the needy instead.

For parents who aren’t followers of the Christian faiths that believe in the Christmas story, it is important that you teach your child to respect the season and its spiritual context as a religious and cultural difference in our culturally diverse world.

Be humble and don’t flaunt your benevolence. There is a well-known quote that parents should remember and strive to instil its message in their children: “It is not the things you do at Christmas, but the Christmas things you do all through the year.”

STORY TIME

Stars

A

long time ago, a mother prepared for Christmas Eve. She cleaned and scrubbed her home, chasing the spiders from the living room with her broom.

The spiders fled to the attic and listened to the excitement below as the Christmas tree was put up and decorated.

When all was quiet again, the little spiders crept back downstairs to see the beautiful tree. They were filled with happiness as they crawled along every branch, admiring the glittering beauty of each ornament. But alas, by the time they had finished climbing through the tree, it was completely draped with their dusty, grey cobwebs.

When the Christ child came, He smiled as He looked upon the happy little spiders; however, He knew the mother would be heartbroken when she saw the shrouded tree. So He reached out and touched

Alone in the night On a dark hill With pines around me Spicy and still, And a heaven full of stars Over my head White and topaz And misty red; the webs and, blessing them, turned them into silver and gold.

Now the Christmas tree sparkled and shimmered and was even more beautiful than before. Thus the custom to have tinsel of silver and gold and a spider ornament amongst the other decorations on the Christmas tree was born.(An Eastern European folk tale)

Myriads with beating Hearts of fire The aeons Cannot vex or tire; Up the dome of heaven Like a great hill I watch them marching Stately and still.

And I know that I Am honoured to be Witness Of so much majesty.

By Grammar G.

--- Sara Teasdale

L

imericks are poems that make use of puns, other wordplay – and of course rhymes.

Consisting of five lines, it is usually humorous (and in some cases naughty); comprising a strict AABBA rhyme scheme.

Edward Lear, one of the more well-known limerick authors demonstrates this rhyming scheme: There was an Old Man of Kilkenny, [A] Who never had more than a penny;[A] He spent all that money, [B] In onions and honey, [B] That wayward Old Man of Kilkenny.[A] Don Marquis, who is considered a limerick expert, places limericks into three

categories: “limericks to be told when ladies are present; limericks to be told when ladies are absent but clergymen are present; and LIMERICKS.” Many limericks have found themselves in children’s poetry: There once was a young lady named Bright Whose speed was much faster than light She set out one day In a relative way And returned on the previous night. (Anonymous) Some other limericks cannot be used here by Grammar G due to publishing censorship.

While the origins of the limerick are obscure, according to the “Encyclopaedia Britannica”, it has been sug-

gested that the name derives from the chorus of an 18th-century Irish soldiers’ song, “Will You Come Up to Limerick?” To this were added impromptu verses crowded with improbable incident and subtle innuendo.

The first collections of

limericks in English date from about 1820. Edward Lear, who composed and illustrated those in his “Book of Nonsense” (1846), claimed to have gotten the idea from a nursery rhyme beginning “There was an old man of Tobago.”

20 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 18, 2016

guyanatimesgy.com

Times Sunday Puzzle

Decipher these common Christmas Carols.

Example: Happiness to the global ecosystem. Answer: “Joy to the World�

1. Small male percussionist 2. I am experiencing nocturnal visions of a colourless holiday 3. Festoon the corridors 4. A non-summer fairytale area 5. Oh holiday conifer see ANSWERS on page 23

see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine

21

Times Kids

Creature Corner

Polar bear

T

he polar bear (Ursus maritimus) naturally inhabits the shores and sea ice only in the icy cold Arctic region of the world near the north pole.

Canada accounts for roughly 60 per cent of the world's polar bears. They can also be found in the U.S. (Alaska), Greenland, Russia, and the Svalbard archipelago of Norway.

The polar bear's main prey is the ringed seal which they hunt by waiting for them to breathe at openings in the ice (leads) or at breathing holes. Polar bears will also stalk seals that are hauled out on top of

the ice.

When seals are hard to find, polar bears turn to other food sources— including vegetation, geese, bird eggs, the occasional small mammal, as well as artic marine mammals such as the walrus, whale carcasses that have washed ashore, and narwhal (Beluga whale) that have become trapped in small openings of ice.

The primary conservation concern for polar bears today is habitat loss and reduced access to their primary prey due to climate change.

Christmas Carol Word Search

GEOZONE

The North Pole

T

he geographic North Pole is the northern point of the Earth's axis of rotation. According to National Geographic, it is the precise point of the intersection of the Earth's axis and the Earth's surface.

The North Pole is found in the Arctic Ocean, on constantly shifting pieces of sea ice. The ice is about 2-3 meters (610 feet) thick. The depth of the ocean at the North Pole is more than 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).

Because the Earth rotates on a tilted

Colouring Fun

t

Please see solution on page 23

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.

axis as it revolves around the sun, sunlight is experienced in extremes at the poles. In fact, the North Pole experiences only one sunrise (at the March equinox) and one sunset (at the September equinox) every year.

The region experiences up to 24 hours of sunlight in the summer and 24 hours of darkness in the winter.

The Canadian territory of Nunavut lies closest to the North Pole. The North pole is not a part of any nation.

22 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 18, 2016

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DECEMBER 18, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 23

Times World

On the factory floor at Yiwu Hangtian Arts and Crafts (Liam Young/Unknown Fields Division via BBC)

I

f you call on Santa at the North Pole, chances are you may see a ‘We’ve moved” sign. That’s because the real home of Christmas may well be a strange and unknown Chinese city, only a few hours away from exotic Shanghai, called Yiwu.

At the Christmas level of the International Trade Market in Yiwu, more than 60 per cent of the world’s Christmas decorations are made in Yiwu and sold here.

Tim Maughan, who has visited this “global epicentre of festive decorations and plastic gifts” on a hot and humid day in August, describes it as “a run-down large shopping mall” – ex-

cept that it covers some four million sq. m, with 62,000 booths inside on several levels.

Surrounded by artificial trees, baubles, fake snow, felt Santa hats, and animated LED reindeers – with festive tunes playing – Maughan states that more than likely, “that tree lighting up your lounge. Those decorations hanging from the ceiling. That novelty stocking filler you bought for your child…came not far from where I am standing…”

Says Maughan: “In 2012 Yiwu and the surrounding region had 750 companies making Christmas

Brain Teaser Answer 1. “Little Drummer Boy” 2. “I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas” 3. “Deck the Halls” 4. “Winter Wonderland” 5. “Oh Christmas Tree”

SUDOKU

KID SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

decorations and other festive items, according to the Yiwu Christmas Products Association.”

At the Yiwu Hangtian Arts and Crafts Co, Ltd, a small company about 30 minutes’ drive outside the city, Maughan reports on “the most bewildering and unsettling factory we’d visit in China.”

“For a start it’s the context; it’s nearly 30C outside, and we stood in a slightly shabby industrial building full of instantly familiar Christmas imagery. The first room we’re shown is the main factory floor, where a couple of dozen workers – of all ages and genders, but predominately women under 20 years old – are assembling and painting plastic mistletoe, wreathes, miniature trees and more.

Everywhere the fruits of their labour surround them; thousands of Christmas ornaments and novelties constantly being piled into cardboard boxes and plastic crates faster than they can be moved out, spilling onto the floor and towering above the workers.

In the next room the fabric products are made; again about two dozen women sit at rows of sewing machines.

It’s hot and all you can hear is the constant hum of the machines as they stitch together hats, Christmas stockings, and festive bunting…

Upstairs is the plastic moulding room, mainly staffed by young men, stripped to the waist because of the heat. The air here is thick with fumes, the smell of chemicals and warm plastic. The men feed plastic pellets from Samsung-branded sacks into machines to be melted down, and then pressed into moulds to make toy snowmen and Father Christmases.

If you’d asked me before I visited Yiwu how Christmas decorations are made I’d have guessed they were mass produced in largely automated factories.

But the truth here is actually the real secret of China’s manufacturing suc-

In the sewing room a girl sews trim onto red felt (Tim Maughan/ Unknown Fields Division via BBC)

cess – keeping labour costs so low that making things by hand is cheaper than using machines. I was never given a definite figure, but I’m told by one of the factory managers that employees here are paid somewhere between (US$) $200 and $300 a month to work 12-hour-plus shifts, six days a week. It allows small companies like Yiwu Hangtian Arts and Crafts to get started with relatively little investment, while giving them the flexibility to adapt

and change what they produce to fit their customers’ needs.

As we leave, we get a glimpse of boxes of Christmas decorations being loaded into a shipping container heading to the mega-port of Ningbo. There it would be transported on a container ship to… who knows where. I’m told that most of the decorations are headed to the US and Europe, with Russia being a new, large, and very lucrative market.

We’re told that by the end of September, Christmas manufacturing will have stopped, and the factory will have switched to making Easter and Valentine’s Day gifts and trinkets.

After that, it’s Halloween decorations for the lucrative American market. Then, by late spring, it’s Christmas time again. As long as the world wants to celebrate whatever and whenever event it cares to choose, China will be there to be its ultimate party supplier.”

Christmas décor “Made in China” on display at Yiwu (Tim Maughan/ Unknown Fields Division via BBC)

24

Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 18, 2016

Fun Times

Archie

ARIES Be observant and speak (March 21- out about anything you feel April 19) is being misjudged or misused. The way you handle others will have an impact on the way things turn out.

Travel plans, socializTAURUS ing with peers or express(April 20- ing your feelings to the peoMay 20) ple you care about most are all favored. Observe and respond based on how others treat you.

Honesty will help you GEMINI avoid emotional discord. If (May 21you want to make changJune 20) es at home, offer suggestions and involve everyone who will be affected by the changes you make.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

Discuss plans and book all your arrangements for the holidays. Try something new or take a different approach to how you spend your time and money.

Check your bank balance before you spend too much.

Confusion about what you can afford is apparent. You can’t buy love, but offering affection will encourage it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

You’ll have difficulty discovering the truth when dealing with emotional matters. Observation will be in your best interest, along with questioning those who can offer you insight into your situation.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Get involved in a cause geared to helping less-fortunate people. The time spent will be enlightening as well as rewarding in terms of the people you encounter and the friends you make.

Frustration, anxiety SCORPIO and disputes will surface if (Oct. 24you are too pushy or you alNov. 22) low someone to take advantage of you. Stay focused on what’s important to you.

Strive to be positive.

Lady Luck is in your corSAGITTARIUS ner.

Look at your options (Nov. 23and put your strategy to Dec. 21) work. Settlements, investments and finances will take a positive turn.

Calvin and Hobbes

You need to put more CAPRICORN time, effort and energy into (Dec. 22- clearing up unfinished busiJan. 19) ness. Taking care of matters that can have implications for your tax returns or a pending deal are imperative.

You should ask for faAQUARIUS vors, offer support to an or(Jan. 20- ganization you care about Feb. 19) or take the initiative to reconnect with old friends.

Reunions will lead to future plans.

Emotional distress may PISCES land you in hot water if you (Feb. 20- neglected someone who was Mar. 20) expecting to receive more attention from you. Don’t waste time when you should be doing something special for the one you love.