Sunday Magazine - February 17, 2019

February 17, 2019

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FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Mash 2019

and Linden.

It is a time of revelry and dressing up in costumes and joining the float parades and has evolved in terms of creativity over the years.

Many activities are held prior to the main event on February 23; these include the children’s parade, Panorama, Chutney Soca Monarch competition and other cultural activities.

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uyana is a melting pot of cultures and every celebration takes on some part of that melting pot. It is no different with Mashramani since it is a time to showcase our unity as a people and truly live as “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”. This year, Mashramani is being observed under the theme, “Celebrate Mash 49 With Victory In Mind.”

Mashramani is an Amerindian word which means “celebration after hard work”, and is usually observed on February 23 in observance of Guyana’s Republic status, which was achieved on that date in 1970. Mashramani, commonly referred to as “Mash”, is the most colourful, dynamic, inclusive, cultural Scene from the first Mashramani celebration in Linden (1969)

Mash origins

and energetic of all the festivals in Guyana.

Each year, since 1970, Guyana has observed its Republic anniversary by hosting a series of activities. These activities usually culminate on Republic Day, February 23, with a grand display of costume bands, accompanied by Caribbean music, watched by thousands of spectators who either line the routes along where the revellers pass, or occupy the grass verges with their families and friends to picnic while they enjoy the festivities of the day.

Over the past years, the street parties have continued well into the night.

The flag-raising ceremony, which takes place on the eve of the Republic celebrations, is attended by the

President, Prime Minister and other Government officials, as well as Members of Parliament, the Judiciary and the Armed Forces. Later in the day, around 09:00h, the day's main feature, the "Mashramani Float Parade", begins.

The celebration came out of the Junior Chamber of Greater Mackenzie, which was already celebrating Guyana’s independence in Linden with a similar event since Independence in 1966.

It proved so successful that by 1972 it was declared a national event, and the following year, it was held nationally for the first time and annually ever since, in the capital city of Georgetown under the auspices of the Government, although there are events held in Berbice

The origin of the word Mashramani has been a source of some dispute that has in the past led to various efforts to clarify the term.

According to historians, the word Mashramani was borrowed from the Arawak word to describe their celebratory period of feasting and dancing after a successful preparation and planting season; meaning, “celebration after hard work”, though other coinages include “celebration of a work

well done”, “a venture”, or “cooperative effort”, and “a celebration after a harvest”.

However, it has also been said that the word is not directly an Arawak word, but sounds similar to a word used to describe a festival such as one when the village gets together to celebrate a young couple’s approaching marriage. Regardless, the term Mashramani was officially chosen in 1972 to symbolise the celebrations of the new Republic’s birth.

The first national celebration was described as a “a riot of colour, gaiety and scintillating pan music in the streets of Georgetown for over six hours … as a number of floats, costumes and steel bands in Carnival style tramped in the city and suburban areas to highlight the Mashramani celebrations in Georgetown,” by the Guyana Graphic on Saturday, February 24, 1973.

Masquerade entertaining the crowd at National Park n.d.

WHEREAS the Constitution of Guyana makes provision in paragraph (5) of article 73 thereof whereby Guyana may become a Republic and accordingly cease to be part of Her Majesty’s dominions pursuant to alterations to the Constitution set out in the Second Schedule thereto; AND WHEREAS such provision requires a resolution of the National Assembly, upon a motion introduced by the Prime Minister, that Guyana shall become a Republic and that the said alterations to the Constitution shall have effect on such day after the passing of the resolution as may be specified therein; AND WHEREAS by virtue* of such provision notice of such a motion may be given on or after 1st January, 1969, but not less than three months before the National Assembly upon the motion; AND WHEREAS in fulfilment of the processes of National Independence it is fitting that Guyana should become a Republic pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution; AND WHEREAS the twenty-third day of February in each year commemorates the revolt of enslaved peoples on that day in the year one thousand seven hundred and sixty-three in the then Colony of Berbice – being the first significant blow struck for freedom in the territory now comprised in the State of Guyana; RESOLVED by this National Assembly in pursuance of paragraph (5) of article 73 of the Constitution of Guyana that on the twenty-third day of February in the year one thousand nine hundred and seventy Guyana shall become a Republic and accordingly cease to be part of Her Majesty’s dominions and that for that purpose the alterations to the constitution of Guyana set out in the Second Schedule to the said constitution shall have effect.

Passed by the National Assembly this 29th day of August, 1966

MB Henry

M B Henry, Acting Clerk of the National Assembly

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Mash 2019

By Utamu Belle

L

ooking back over the years at the celebration of Mashramani, a festival with its origin in the bauxite mining town of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), one would note that it has undergone many unique and interesting transformations. This year marks 49 years of Guyana becoming a Republic nation, and approximately 45 years since the birth of the celebration.

The Mashramani celebration started when the Junior Chamber – Jaycees – of Mackenzie (a community that now constitutes part of Linden), who had been organising the country’s Independence celebrations since 1966, sought to have a ‘carnival-like’ festival to commemorate British Guiana gaining its Republican status in 1970. Chaired by popular West Indies cricketer Basil Butcher, the Jaycees Republic Committee was formed. It included members such as Jim Blackman, who was named Deputy to complete the task owing to Butcher being selected to the WI team about to tour Australia; resource personnel Adrian Thompson; Wordsworth McAndrew and Arthur Seymour.

Following the formation of the Committee, its members then began consultations so that a relevant name could be chosen for the festival, which was intended to celebrate the much-anticipated “Birth of the Republic.” It was Butcher, who then made the suggestion that an Amerindian or Indigenous name would be best suited. After the members of the Committee agreed, they contacted several Amerindians, including Allan Fiedtkou, an employee attached to the Geological Department of the then bauxite company, Demba. Fiedtkou suggested a name which he learnt from his grandfather that was used by Amerindians when they gathered to commemorate an auspicious event. As Fiedtkou explained, the celebration would last over several days, sometimes even up to a week. The men would go hunting and the women and children would gather materials to make a benab. Refreshments would be made and a feast would ensue. According to Fiedtkou, the term for the celebration sounded like “Muster Many” or “Mashirimehi”, and it sounded like “Mashramani” in Arawak.

After several authorities were consulted, there were no doubts or confirmations regarding the term. Mashramani became known as an Amerindian term for celebration after hard work or a cooperative effort or the celebration after a job well done. As such, the Committee decided to call the festival Mashramani, with the aim of hosting a national observance. As such, on February 23, 1970, Guyana’s first Republican festival was staged at Linden.

The Jaycees, then headed by Jimmy Hamilton, had appointed the team to successfully organise the celebration, which was deemed a successful one.

It featured three exciting days of competition and fun, attracting huge crowds from across the other adm i n i s trative Regions.

The celebrat i o n eventually managed to secure spons o r s h i p f r o m t h e

Demerara Distillers L i m i t e d ( D D L ) .

Guyanese were said to have welcomed the observances with as much splendour as they welcomed the status of becoming a Republic nation.

There were activities such as ‘the Revolt dance’, a jouvert-like observance which became known as “Fo Day Mawnin Jump Up”; the Cde Mashramani contest; a calypso contest called the “Shanto” contest; a steel band contest and an extravagant float parade.

Pageantry, in those days, was also a main attraction of the event, with the first winner of the Mashramani contest in 1970 being Hazel Figueira of Mackenzie, Linden.

In 1971, then Home Affairs Minister David Singh declared the celebrations in Linden open and decided that he would take a proposal to Cabinet to make the celebration a national one. With the assistance of the Jaycees Committee, the Minister travelled across the country to inform residents of the celebration. Since then, various activities were shifted to various areas across Guyana.

Enjoyed by many, Mashramani’s popularity quickly grew as it became a national observance. In 1972, it was taken to the capital city Georgetown, following Singh’s intervention and then President Forbes

Burnham granting permission. That year, the bauxite company in Linden sent a 500-strong contingent to Georgetown to participate in the parade. The move also saw the event being held in Linden, Berbice and Georgetown, but Linden failed to garner much sponsorship to sustain the costume and float parade.

Eventually, it was centred in Georgetown and as the years went by, other areas across Guyana joined in. Throughout the decades, the celebrations have evolved. As a witness to the celebrations in those days recalled, it was somewhat different from the “bacchanal-style” prancing down the streets these days.

“It was not like what we see these days, we used to hold hands and do an Amerindian type dance, moving from side to side. We would form a line, and the line would be in so much order, but there was no Soca-style jamming, just an orderly, peaceful dance,” she explained.

Another resident of Linden, Wendy Wellington, noted that revellers in those days were more modestly dressed. “I must say that back then it was just something that people started, but as time goes by, it became more developed,” she noted.

Other witnesses to the event in the past have claimed that the observance would appear to have lost its true intended meaning.

According to some, nowadays, more emphasis is placed on the partying aspect.

Lindener Winslow Parris noted that the celebration took on a more cultural demeanour back then.

"We had, back then, things that related to the rebelling of slaves. We would have had like an African troupe and the beating of drums," he related.

He also reminisced on the masquerades back then and recalled that the costumes were not as large as those in recent times.

Another Lindener, Caesar McAlmont said in his opinion, much has not changed over the years.

“Mashramani ain't change in no way. All that changed is that they carried it away to town," he said.

He noted too that the musical aspect in those days centred on the use of steel pan.

"Back then, we didn't have big bands, you know. The generation now is more bacchanal-like than in our time.

Steel band was the thing then.

When you hear about a big Mash, you talking Steel Band, not (music) set.

You trampling down the road, with a steel band.

Everybody behind a steel band...

Ya chipping down the road, with a steel band. We had the “Invaders” and so much other steel bands," he recalled.

But youngsters who are accustomed to the atmosphere these days say they look forward to Mashramani celebra-

tions each year.

“Well, Mash is a time where we get together with friends and just have a nice time. You know, no work so we just get together and have fun,” a youngster indicated.

These days, lots of sponsorship is pumped into the celebrations. Each year, thousands line the streets, with hundreds participating in the annual float parade held in Georgetown. The parade is usually an annual competition, with big bands participating.

Additionally, many new activities have been incorporated into the celebrations, including the Children’s Costume Competition, the Junior and Senior Calypso and Chutney competitions, Chutney dance competition, duck curry competition, folk evening observance, Bands Concert and National Art exhibition.

Traditional activities have remained, including the steel band concert and Panorama as well as Masquerade Jamboree. However, many long for the return of the Mashramani pageant, which was hosted back in those days. While a few pageants were hosted over the years, it has not been on the annual calendar of events.

As for the community of Linden where it all started, the celebration is held approximately a week after the grand float parade in Georgetown. Costumes are usually sponsored by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and a few businesses. However, the float parade in the mining town can be considered miniature to that of the capital city.

There is also a “Mash Bash” social and cultural event hosted in the community on February 23.

Wellington believes that more should be done to preserve the history of the floats.

She said there should be a place where samples are kept, as a reminder to youths of our rich, cultural heritage. “...when you would have spent all this money to build these costumes, you should have somewhere to put them. You shouldn’t just let them go to waste. There should be some place where you store these costumes and have them protected, where the youths can go and see how things have changed over time,” she told this publication.

Over the years, Lindeners have longed to see the return of the celebration to the town. Officials are presently in talks to have it return next year, as Guyana celebrates its 50th anniversary as a Republic. With all that has changed over the years, few things have remained. These include flamboyant costumes; beaming faces; people dancing to the sounds of masquerade bands, calypso and steel pan music; hundreds lining the streets to get a glimpse of the spectacle and delicious Guyanese cuisine. Over the years, these features, which mark the observance of Guyana becoming a Republican n a t i o n back in February 1970, have never failed to delight Guyanese and visitors.

This year, Mashramani is being celebrated under the theme, “Celebrate Mash 49 With Victory In Mind.”

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FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Mash 2019

By Lakhram Bhagirat

O

ne of my favourite movie stars Denzel Washington famously said, “At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished…it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.”

For Ryan Lochan, he feels a particular affinity with the words of Denzel as he is in the giving back mode. He is giving back to a school that has given his two

boys so much to make him a proud father. Ryan has been in the creative field for over 15 years now, but never took up the task to actually design costumes for a parade.

Being an avid masquerader for a number of years in the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, Ryan believes that he needs to do something to up the game of the Children’s Mashramani Costume and Float Parade.

He was sitting around one day and just came up with the idea of bringing change to the parade since most of

the costume styles are repetitive.

“I have been doing Carnival in Trinidad for a number of years and I have been watching the children jumping up and down in the Kiddies Carnival and was always amazed. I was sitting and came up with idea and told a friend of mine and we decided to approach Ketley Primary with some samples,” Ryan said.

He chose Ketley because it is the school that gave his two boys the best education possible. He said that he felt that it was his way of giving back to the school because it has given him so much to be proud of. When he approached the school, his idea was readily accepted by the Head and staff there, since

they had been unable to participate in the competition for the past two years.

However, the School’s administration already had a theme in mind as outlined by the Education Ministry which was the Lost City of El Dorado. They chose to focus on the Queen of El Dorado which meant that the carnival theme Ryan

had in his mind had to be changed to fit the theme. He immediately got back to the drawing board and came up with unique pieces to fit that theme.

However, it was not without challenges as Ryan explained that he was venturing into uncharted territory so he needed to familiarise himself with what needed

to be done. The School also did not have much funding which meant that resources were scarce but being a stickler for quality, Ryan decided to tap into his extensive clientele.

While the School provided funding, through contributions from the ParentTeachers Association, with the help from his clients and from his pockets, Ryan completed the costumes.

The costumes are spectacular and you would not believe from looking at them that it is the first time Ryan has done that.

Ryan is hoping to hone his newfound skill to make it something he does on a regular basis.

He brings vast carnival knowledge and would have seen thousands of different costumes that all speak to different themes.

Just imagine with that knowledge what he will bring to the local scene and how it can change, but for now he is focusing on making the children of Ketley Primary School the best in the parade. A task he successfully completed.

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O

ur culture, our language, our history, and our values are vital to uniting us as a nation, as a people, and as the melting pot that we are. Nothing unites us more than a celebration of everything that is in that pot and one such celebration is Mashramani.

Mashramani translates as “celebration after hard work” and it is a time where we as Guyanese take the time to go out into the streets and celebrate everything that truly makes us unique as a people. It is a time when we forget race, politics and everything else that divides us daily. It is truly a celebration of harmony and unity.

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

The annual Costume and Float Parade is the main attraction of Mashramani. It is a time when people deck themselves out in extravagant costumes, join large bands or flock the streets that are part of the parade route just to get a glimpse of the glittery costumes depicting different messages.

The stage is usually set for the large parade with the commencement of the Children’s Mashramani activities. As has been the tradition for some time, the Children’s Mashramani activities are among the most anticipated, and schools from the various regions participate in various activities, including dramatic poetry,

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dance, and calypso.

The young generation of revellers proudly represent their schools and regions with enthusiasm, drive and creativity. The Children’s Mashramani activities officially became the responsibility of the Education Ministry in February 1992. The Unit of Allied Arts within the Ministry was tasked with implementing programmes to showcase the talents of children in Guyana. The Unit is the centre for coordination and integration of the Expressive Arts – Dance, Music, Physical Education and Visual Arts – in sequenced modules into the school system of Guyana.

Because of its mandate, the Allied Arts Unit expanded the scope of the Children’s Mashramani activities to include competitions of Dance, Dramatic Poetry, Calypso, Costume, Steel Pan, Physical Education, and Masquerade for children. The objectives of the programme are to promote the Expressive Arts through a National Event; encourage schools, parents and communities to work together in a creative artistic manner; provide an opportunity for the display of talent by students and to foster a sense of pride in our national identity.

The competitions are held at the regional and national levels for primary and secondary schools. Children at the nursery level also participate in some of the activities, but only at the regional level. What a joy it is to see the nation’s youth embracing the occasion.

The finals of these competitions are held in Georgetown and all Regional Education Districts participate. These activities usu-

Mash 2019

ally run for a period of three weeks in the month of February and the outstanding performances are recognised and rewarded at all levels.

The Children’s Costume Parade was introduced in 1996. It is a spectacular colourful activity that showcases the talents and creativity that exist among young people.

This parade culminates the series of activities and involves approximately 4000 children from schools and youth groups throughout Guyana. It is a collaborative effort of the Education Ministry, the Private Sector and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

The main (adult) parade is on February 23, which is also the date Guyana achieved Republican status. It is usually a plethora of colours as the revellers in the various bands snake their way through the streets of Georgetown. It is usually a tough competition as the revellers battle for top prizes.

It is also a time where local designers are given a chance to exhibit their creativity and show exactly what Guyanese are capable of. They are given the theme by the owners of the band and they let their creativity run amok to come up with breath-taking pieces.

The vibe on Mash Day with loud music and masqueraders gyrating through the streets of the capital city is one that cannot be experienced just by sitting and watching the parade on the television, rather you have to be in the midst of the crowd and feel it to experience it.

So this Mash Day, grab your friends and go out on the road to experience true unity and celebrate our rich Guyanese culture.

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"The National Flag" The National Flag of Guyana is called "The Golden Arrowhead". It bears five colours - red, black, yellow, white and green The flag has the unique design of two triangles (one within the other) issuing from the same base. The outer triangle is gold-colored (arrow-shaped) with a narrow border of white along two sides.

The inner triangle is red with a narrow strip of black bordering the sides. The background of the flag is green, representing the agricultural and forested nature of Guyana. The white border represents the rivers and water potential. The golden arrow represents Guyana's mineral wealth and the black border, the endurance that will sustain the forward thrust of the Guyanese people. The red of the flag represents the zeal and dynamic nature of nationbuilding which lies before the young and independent Guyana. The Flag was designed by Whitney Smith, Director of the Flag Centre, Florida, U.S.A.

"The National Flower" The Victoria Regia, a water lily, was discovered by Robert Schomburgk, a German Botanist in 1837, while leading an expedition into the interior of what was then British Guiana. In its native habitat of tropical America, the plant is perennial. It grows in 4 to 6 feet of water, the base of the stems being situated in soft mud. From each plant there are seldom more than 4 or 5 leaves. The largest flowers can measure 10 inches to one foot in diameter. When first open, they are white with a sweet smell rather like a ripe fruit; by the second day they are fully expanded and a deeper pink; by the third day, they start to wither.

One of the other national symbols chosen for Guyana is a bird - the Hoatzin or Canje Pheasant.

The adult Hoatzin is about 22 inches long from beak to tail. Its color is reddish-brown streaked with green. The under parts are pale brown. The feathers on its shoulder and sides are edged with creamywhite. There is a crest of very long feathers on its head which gives the bird an almost majestic look.

The Hoatzin has a very short and very thick beak, and the skin around the crimson eye is of a pale blue color.This bird can be found throughout the year in areas along the banks of the Berbice River and its tributary, the Canje Creek, and to some extent, on the Abary, Mahaicony and Mahaica Rivers.

It feeds on the leaves of aquatic vegetation. The nesting period for the Hoatzin, commonly known as the Canje Pheasant, is usually from April to September.

"The National Anthem"

"The National Pledge"

National Anthem of Guyana Lyrics: A.L. Luker - Music: Robert Cyril Gladstone Potter Musical Score - Music

I pledge myself to honor always the Flag of Guyana, and to be loyal to my country, to be obedient to the laws of Guyana, to love my fellow citizens, and to dedicate my energies towards the happiness and prosperity of Guyana.

Dear land of Guyana, of rivers and plains, Made rich by the sunshine and lush by the rains, Set gemlike and fair between mountains and sea, Your children salute you, dear land of the free.

Green land of Guyana, our heroes of yore, Both bondsmen and free, laid their bones on your shore; This soil so they hallowed, and from them are we, All sons of one mother, Guyana the free.

"The Coat-Of-Arms" The national Coat-of-Arms of Guyana is a composite of motifs suggested in separate designs by three Guyanese artists. The design is interpreted as follows: The Amerindian head-dress symbolizes the Amerindians as the indigenous people of the country. The two diamonds at the side of the head-dress represent the country's mining industry. The helmet is the monarchial insignia. The two jaguars holding a pick axe, a sugar cane and a stalk of rice symbolize labor and the two main agricultural industries of the country - sugar and rice. The shield which is decorated with the National Flower, the Victoria Regia Lily, is to protect the nation. The three blue wavy lines represent the many waters of Guyana. The Canje Pheasant, the National Bird, at the bottom of the shield represents a rare bird found principally in this part of the world and also the rich fauna of Guyana. The streamer below the shield bears the Nation's Motto "ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY".

The Coat of Arms was selected on the recommendation of the National History and Arts Council and approved by the College of Arms, England. It was accepted by the House of Assembly on Friday, 25th February, 1966.

Great land of Guyana, diverse though our strains, We are born of their sacrifice, heirs of their pains, And ours is the glory their eyes did not see, One land of six peoples, united and free.

Dear land of Guyana, to you will we give Our homage, our service, each day that we live; God guard you, great Mother, and make us to be More worthy our heritage - land of the free.

"SONG OF THE REPUBLIC"

Words by Cleveland W. Hamilton Music by Frank Daniels From Pakaraima’s peaks of pow’r To Courentyne’s lush sands, Her children pledge each faithful hour To guard Guyana’s lands.

To foil the shock of rude invader Who’d violate her earth, To cherish and defend forever The State that gave them birth.

We’ll forge a nation’s might soul Construct a nation’s frame; Freedom our everlasting goal, Courage and truth our aim, Unyielding in our quest for peace Like ancient heroes brave, To strive and strive and never cease With Strength beyond the slave.

Guyana, climb the glorious perch To fame, prosperity; Join in the universal search For world-wide comity.

Your people what soe’er their breed Their hue or quality, With one firm never changing creed The nation’s unity.

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ashramani is a time to be out in the sun with the family having a blast and there is nowhere to do that unless you are comfortable. We have selected some of the most comfortable and stylish pieces so you can look and feel your best. So grab your food baskets, dress to impress and let us go watch the Costume and Float Parade‌

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Mash 2019

Mashramani is a time to celebrate with the family and a good celebration usually include lots of food. Below are some easy recipes to make your Mashramani truly delicious and as an added bonus they are super easy to prepare. So grab your apron and get cooking:

Ingredients • 2 lbs giblets and hearts • 1 small lime/lemon • 4 tbsp of vegetable oil • 2 tbsp minced/chopped garlic • 1 small onion chopped • 1 small pepper chopped (optional) • 1 tbsp of complete seasoning • 1 tbsp tomato paste • 4 tbsp Curry powder • 2 tbsp masala • 1.5 tbsp salt Method 1. Cut giblets and heart into small pieces, and wash with water and juice of lime/lemon.

2. Add 4 tbsp vegetable oil in pressure cooker, let hot for about 2 minutes.

3. Add minced/chopped garlic, onion, pepper and tomato paste to hot oil, and let cook for 1 minute. Add curry powder and masala and let cook for about 2 minute with constant turning.

4. If needed, add 4 to 8 tbsp water to loosen up mixture, and cook/turn for about another 4 minutes 5. Add chicken giblets and heart, and salt then mix well, now leave to cook for about another 20 minutes with occasional checking and turning. Add one cup of water, place lid on cooker and pressure for 15-20 minutes.

6. Finally, after cooking in pressure cooker, take off lid and let cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until liquid had evaporated. Serve with dhal, rice or roti. (Guyanesefood.com)

Ingredients • 8 oz cold meat (turkey, chicken, beef) • brown sauce, gravy or stock • 1 onion, chopped • 1 tsp tomato sauce or ketchup • 1 lb cooked yams Method Remove skin and fat from meat and mince it. Season the meat well with salt and pepper, and add brown sauce, gravy or stock to moisten. Add onion and ketchup. Place the meat in a greased pie dish. Mash yam and pile the yam crust over the meat and make it neat with a knife dipped in hot water. Cook in a hot oven, 400 degrees, for 10-15 minutes. (Guyanesefood.com)

• • • • • • • • •

Ingredients 1/4 pt split peas 2 cloves garlic 1 hot red pepper 1/4 tsp ground geerah 1 lb flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1 tsp ghee 1/2 pt cooking oil

Method 1. Boil peas with some salt until it falls apart when squished between fingers. Drain and cool.

Grind peas with garlic and pepper.

Mix with geerah.

2. Sieve flour and remove a third for spreading and kneading.

Ingredients • 2 Eggs • 1 Can Evaporated Milk (12oz) • 3/4 Tsp Vanilla Essence • 5 Tbsp Sugar • 3/4 Tsp Ground/Grated Nutmeg (1/2 to add in mixture and 1/4 to sprinkle on top)

Ingredients • 4 oz flour • 1/2 tsp cream of tartar or 1 tsp baking powder • 1/4 tsp baking soda • 1 oz margarine • 2 oz cheese, grated • 1/4 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp dry mustard • 4 tbsp milk • beaten egg to glaze (optional)

Method Sift together flour, cream of tartar and soda. Rub in the fat. Add cheese, salt, pepper and the mustard and mix to a soft dough with the milk. Turn on to a floured board, knead lightly to remove cracks and roll or pat into a round about 1/2-3/4 inch thick. Cut into triangles, place on a greased baking sheet, and glaze with beaten egg or milk. Bake in a hot oven, 450 degrees, for 10 minutes.

(Guyanesefood.com)

Add baking powder, salt and half teaspoon ghee, and mix. Add 1/2 pt water and mix to a dough. Knead dough for a short time, then leave to stand for 5 minutes.

3. Divide dough into 6 pieces and spread each to a circle of 1 1/22 inches in diameter. Rub with a mixture of the remaining ghee and oil. Fill with a rounded tablespoon of ground peas and seal.

4. Dust in flour and leave to soak for 5 minutes. Heat tawah, roll out pieces and place on tawah. Turn and glaze with oil and ghee mixture.

Turn again and allow to cook on both sides. Puri should swell.

(Guyanesefood.com)

Method Preheat oven for about 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Beat the egg, sugar and milk together. Add vanilla essence and nutmeg into mixture and beat lightly so all ingredients is mixed well. Pour into a greased pan. Grate a little nutmeg on the top. Place the pan into a larger pan half filled with water.

Place into pre-heated oven at 350 degrees, for about 50 minutes until set. (Guyanesefood. com)

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FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Feature

Preserving our literary heritage

(Part one featured Ivan Van Sertima, N. E. Cameron, Jan Carew, O. R. Dathorne and Beryl Gilroy.

Part two features another five names.)

T

here are as many ways to celebrate as there are appropriate ways to celebrate. The tenor of Black History Month should be celebrated with books. Here’s a short (but in no way a comprehensive) list of Guyanese works and their authors which could be used to commemorate the above.

Egbert Martin

Egbert Martin was a remarkable writer on many fronts. His was a short life of less than thirty years, most of it lived from a sick bed, but he managed to write and publish a significant amount of poetry, songs and some short stories.

His first poems were published when he was only nineteen.

His first collection of poems, Leo’s Poetical Works, was published in 1883, when he was only twenty two.

His second collection of poems, Leo’s Local Lyrics, was published in 1886, laying claim to the honour as the first collection of poems to be published locally by a Guyanese writer.

Another first for Martin was that he was the first Guyanese to publish

a collection of short stories.

That collection, Scriptology, was published in 1885. That collection was lost but recently recovered, credit going to Manu Chander who is in Guyana at the moment and David Dabydeen.

Two years later, in 1931, Lawrence produced ‘Threnody’, a song of lamentation for his dead son, exploring trauma as part of his heritage - a healing poem.

The following year, 1932, his ‘delightfully nostalgic’ poem ‘Unreclaimed’ was published in the Chronicle Walter MacArthur Lawrence He gave us ‘Oh, Beautiful Christmas Annual.

The 1930s was defiGuyana’, and ‘My Guyana, El Dorado’ among other sig- nitely the most notable nificant patriotic songs. In of Lawrence’s short life.

1920, the Daily Chronicle During this period, his popublished his first poem, etic output was remarkcommemorating the arrival able – long sentences and in the colony of H. R. H. the very long poems in Greek and Latin traditions, examPrince of Wales.

In 1929, he published ples in titles of poems like ‘Meditations’ with a subtitle ‘Threnody’, and ‘Meromi’.

‘Thoughts in the Silence’, so- In ‘Meromi’, Lawrence dislidifying his position on the played an uncommon gift landscape of Guyanese liter- of telling a story in verse, matching Keats’ ‘Isabella’, ature.

Tennyson’s ‘Princess’ and Egbert Martin’s Eric Walrond ‘Ruth’. Also in ‘Meromi’, he employed a technique that has become quite useful in Caribbean poetry – borrowing and modifying; he transposed a local heroine into the Garden of Eden.

country was strapped with such a responsibility?

Walrond’s life was one of paradoxes engendered by his writings. He gravitated to the editorship of ‘New World’ after he won a fiction contest sponsored by Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association (U. N. I. A.) for his piece, ‘A Senator’s Memoirs’. Later he fell from grace when he penned, ‘Imperator Africanus, Marcus Garvey: Menace or Promise?’

But it was the publication in 1926 of his short story collection, ‘Tropic Death’, which brought him to prominence.

‘Tropic Death’ was valued alongside ‘The Quest of the Silver Fleece’

by W. E. B. Du Bois, ‘The Autobiography of an ExColored Man’ by James W. Johnson and ‘Harlem Shadow’ by Claude McKay. The other notable writers at that time supporting the Harlem Resistance included Marcus Garvey, Claude McKay, Langston Hughes, Arna Bontemps, Zora Neale

Denis Williams

chaeologist, anthropologist, biographer and novelist, Denis Williams was born in 1923 in the capital city of Guyana. He lived on three continents at crucial times - times of intellectual upsurge, times of political ferment and times of creativity in arts. Williams was caught up in the action wherever he went, sharpening his perception of the living and the

Poem

Eric Walrond

Eric Walrond was expected to write the Great Negro Book – a grave responsibility. How come a black person in the early 20th century from a little known

E. R. Braithwaite

Hurston, W. E. B. Du Bois.

E. R. Braithwaite

As it was in the novel, ‘To Sir With Love’ (1959), so it was in the novels, ‘Paid Servant’ (1962), ‘A Kind of Homecoming’ (1962), ‘A Choice of Straws’ (1965), ‘Reluctant Neighbours’ (1972), and ‘Honorary White’ (1975) – E. R. Braithwaite’s poignant exploration of all forms of discrimination especially social conditions of and racial discrimination against Black people. Braithwaite’s frank and crisp use of language endeared the reader to the issues, catapulting many persons to action, improving their condition, righting wrongs. Some responses to his writing were, however, distasteful especially the ban of his books in apartheid South Africa.

Denis Williams

Artist, art historian, ar-

past as reflected in the innovations found in his art, craft and writing – ‘Other Leopards’ and ‘The Third temptation’.

Responses to this author please telephone 226-0065 of email: oraltradition2002@ yahoo.com (to be continued)

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Health

get images of your uterus.

• Lab

at an early age; use of birth control; obesity; a vitamin D deficiency; having a diet higher in red meat and lower in green vegetables, fruit and dairy; and drinking alcohol, including beer, appear to increase your risk of developing fibroids.

Diagnosis

U

terine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas (lie-o-myO-muhs) or myomas, uterine fibroids aren't associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer.

Fibroids range in size from seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You can have a single fibroid or multiple ones. In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage. Many women have uterine fibroids sometime during their lives.

But most women don't know they have uterine fibroids because they often cause no symptoms.

Symptoms

Many women who have fibroids don't have any symptoms. In those that do, symptoms can be influenced by the location, size and number of fibroids. In women who have symptoms, the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids include: • Heavy menstrual bleeding • Menstrual periods lasting more than a week • Pelvic pressure or pain • Frequent urination • Difficulty emptying the bladder • Constipation • Backache or leg pains Rarely, a fibroid can cause acute pain when it outgrows its blood supply, and begins to die. Fibroids are generally classified by their location.

Intramural fibroids grow within the muscular uterine wall. Submucosal fibroids bulge into the uterine cavity.

Subserosal fibroids project to the outside of the uterus.

See your doctor if you have: • Pelvic pain that doesn't go away • Overly heavy, prolonged or painful periods • Spotting or bleeding between periods • Difficulty emptying your bladder

Seek prompt medical care if you have severe vaginal bleeding or sharp pelvic pain that comes on suddenly.

Causes

Doctors don't know the cause of uterine fibroids, but research and clinical experience point to these factors: • Genetic changes.

Many fibroids contain changes in genes that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells.

• Hormones. Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy, appear to promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells do.

Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to a decrease in hormone production.

• Other growth factors. Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulin-like growth factor, may affect fibroid growth.

Doctors believe that uterine fibroids develop from a stem cell in the smooth muscular tissue of the uterus (myometrium). A single cell divides repeatedly, eventually creating a firm, rubbery mass distinct from nearby tissue.

The growth patterns of uterine fibroids vary — they may grow slowly or rapidly, or they may remain the same size. Some fibroids go through growth spurts, and some may shrink on their own. Many fibroids that have been present during pregnancy shrink or disappear after pregnancy, as the uterus goes back to a normal size.

Risk factors

There are few known risk factors for uterine fibroids, other than being a woman of reproductive age. Other factors that can have an impact on fibroid development include: • Heredity. If your mother or sister had fibroids, you're at increased risk of developing them.

• Race. Black women are more likely to have fibroids than women of other racial groups. In addition, black women have fibroids at

younger ages, and they're also likely to have more or larger fibroids.

• Environmental factors. Onset of menstruation

Uterine fibroids are frequently found incidentally during a routine Pelvic exam. Your doctor may feel irregularities in the shape of your uterus, suggesting the presence of fibroids. If you have symptoms of uterine fibroids, you doctor may order these tests: • Ultrasound. If confirmation is needed, your doc-

tor may order an ultrasound.

It uses sound waves to get a picture of your uterus to confirm the diagnosis and to map and measure fibroids. A doctor or technician moves the ultrasound device (transducer) over your abdomen (transabdominal) or places it inside your vagina (transvaginal) to

tests.

If you have abnormal menstrual bleeding, your doctor may order other tests to investigate potential causes.

These might include a complete blood count (CBC) to determine if you have anemia because of chronic blood loss and other blood tests to rule out bleeding disorders or thyroid problems.

Treatment

There's no single best approach to uterine fibroid treatment — many treatment options exist. If you have symptoms, talk with your doctor about options for symptom relief. (Mayo Clinic)

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Puzzles

ACROSS 91 Squander 1 Sedgwick of film 92 Reflect deeply 5 Jones and Kelly

93 Yale alumnus 11 San --, Texas

94 Maxing out 17 "--, right!"

95 Nuisances 21 Holiday song

96 Slangy address 22 Maraud

97 Elton John's "-- Man" 23 Frankness

99 Connections 24 Black-and-white predator

100 Ringlet 25 Kind of tradition 101 Soup holder 26 Charm 102 Meager 27 Explosive containing TNT 103 PC memory unit 28 Kind of horse?

104 Ism 29 Hibachi dishes

105 Playing marble 31 "Star Wars" villain 106 Almost grads 33 Read palms

107 Cathedral parts 35 Palette adjunct

109 Political factions 36 Skimpy skirts

110 Certain pickles 37 Discussion group 112 Implies (2 wds.)

38 Boot liner

115 Raccoon cousin 41 Jarrett of NASCAR 116 Pass (2 wds.)

42 "The Prisoner of --" 120 Jai -43 -- Moines

121 Violinist -- Menuhin 44 Wives, to lawyers 123 Compass pointer 48 Arkansas range

125 Festive log 50 Exciting

126 Roman "fiddler" 51 Chaperoned girl

127 More grouchy 52 Saudi city

128 Job, and then some 53 Fountain orders

129 Wagner's Earth goddess 54 Card combos

130 Strong -- -- ox 55 Climbing rose

131 Threat ender (2 wds.)

57 LP spinners

132 Protected funds 58 Marseilles Ms.

133 Chestnut or bay 59 Juicy pears DOWN 60 Gemstone guru

1 Put on a tie 61 Uproars

2 Good old days 62 Fair-hiring letters 3 Caboose's spot 63 Grunge

4 Kate's sitcom friend 64 Franklin's note 5 Lubricates 65 J.R.'s mama

6 Had status 66 By the book

7 Take advantage of

68 Wheel nut

8 Machine parts

69 Ceiling

9 It's easily deflated

70 Soul singer John -- 10 Helpings

71 Count on

11 "Evangeline" setting 72 Single no more

12 Labels

73 Jacuzzi feature

13 Pitbull sound

74 Horror flick staple 14 VA summer hrs.

75 Dreams

15 Veggy sponges

78 John -- Passos

16 Acrylic fabric

79 Flit about

17 Called from the Tyrol 80 Help a lost driver 18 Paleozoic et al

84 Yardsticks

19 North-forty unit

85 Event for stunt pilots 20 Ocean fish

87 Sword thrust 30 Jerks

88 Burnt -- -- crisp

32 Murray or Dalton

89 Freighter hazard 34 Allude to

90 Renege (2 wds.)

36 Gets better

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- TROCHES

(TROCHES: TRO-kees: Small medicinal lozenges.)

Average mark 33 words Time limit 45 minutes Can you find 44 or more words in TROCHES?

those throes torch tore recto rest retch rochet rose rote ocher other cero

chest chore chose core corset cost cote crest hector hero hers hoer horse

horst hose host echo escort etch ethos score scoter sect sector shoe shore

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

37 Grainy, as leather

38 Saddle horn 39 Flowering shrub

40 Immature

42 Nada

43 Black mark

45 Waistline 46 Urge or prohibit

47 Mouthed off

49 I-90

50 Hardly bland 51 Lagged behind 52 Sea, to Cousteau

54 Little Richard's Miss 55 Toon Chihuahua

56 Escorted

59 Cap visors 60 Bleach bottle 61 Author Horatio -- 63 Stokes a furnace

64 Govt. agency 65 Like a wolf's howl

67 Chassis

68 Tutor's offerings 70 Find quarters 72 Not broken 73 Mandible 74 Polite chaps 75 Deduces 76 Blob of mayo 77 Beethoven's Third 78 Phony shirt fronts 79 Understood a joke 80 Corrodes 81 Piano exercises 82 Snowier 83 Hawk's grippers 85 Battery size 86 Bear -87 Roundup gear 90 Place a wager 91 Lawn invaders 92 Cosmonaut space lab 94 Baby chick sounds 95 Voting district 96 "In Xanadu did --

Khan..."

98 GI fare (2 wds.)

100 Easy gait

101 Helms

103 Falling star

104 Eau --, Wisc.

105 Birdseed

108 Right to decide (hyph.)

109 Is an omen of

110 Guys

111 More bashful

112 Mandlikova of tennis

113 Seine moorages

114 Tourist center of Japan

115 Bodybuilder's rep

116 Llama country

117 Franc's replacement

118 "Catch-22" actor

119 Campus figure 122 Tint

124 Maize unit

See Solution on page 14

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 13

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Bollywood/Hollywood

K

angana Ranaut, who officially turned director with her latest release, Manikarnika, has already announced her next directorial venture: She plans to bring her own life story to the big screen as and insists the project won’t be a “propaganda”.

With a script penned

by Baahubali writer KV Vijayendra, who also wrote Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, the film is set to go on floors by the end of this year. According to the actor, Vijayendra “urged” Kangana, around 12 weeks ago, to let him write a film based on her life. “I was nervous and wary initially, but then, given his stature and

the fact that I trust him implicitly, I gave Vijayendra sir the go-ahead on the project.” Kangana said the film will focus on various aspects of her life but would not name people who have had differences with her in the past.

“How can I show my journey without people, I can’t be walking alone. But we will not be taking any names. The idea is to protect me and my life with all its highs and lows. In the end, it is the story of an achiever, a girl from the mountains who came into Bollywood without any connections in the industry or even a godfather, and went on to carve a niche for herself against all

odds,” s h e

added.

“I’m emboldened by the love of the people around me, who have never judged me but accepted me for who I am,” she added.

“My own story is the subject of my next directorial.

But it is not a propaganda film with characters who are starkly black and white, rather it is a sincere, heartfelt account of my journey so far with plenty of lighter moments,” Kangana said in a statement. (Hindustan Times)

C

owabunga!

Or should we say, "Holy crossover cinema, Batman"? Batman is teaming up with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for an animated movie, SyFy Wire reported.

Together, the heroes will face a batch of Batman villains, in a film based on the six-issue comic series

by James Tynion IV and Freddie Williams II. A representative for Warner Bros confirmed the SyFy report, and Warner Bros. and DC both tweeted about the film.

Troy Baker will voice both the Dark Knight and Joker, with Darren Criss as Raphael, Eric Bauza as Leonardo, Kyle Mooney as Michelangelo and Baron Vaughn as Donatello.

A

lawsuit was filed against actor Arjun Rampal in the Bombay high court (HC) after he allegedly failed to pay back a loan of Rs 1 crore which he had taken from YT Entertainment in May 2018.

However, the actor said the issue has been cleared. “The issue has been cleared and the transaction has happened,” said Rampal, adding that he would make it clear in court when the lawsuit came up for hearing.

According to the lawsuit filed through solicitor Aurup Dasgupta, Rampal had promised to pay back the loan within 90 days, with an interest of 12% per annum.

He had also given a postdated cheque (PDC) of Rs 1crore. But when the cheque was deposited on

P

roducers for a planned Michael Jackson stage musical have canceled a pre-Broadway engagement in Chicago, citing “scheduling difficulties” caused by the recently ended Actors’ Equity strike.

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” will now make its world premiere with the previously announced Broadway debut in summer 2020. The producers said that the musical’s first national tour will premiere in Chicago.

The decision to skip the pre-Broadway try-out was announced Thursday by The Michael Jackson Estate and Columbia Live Stage, producers of the bio-musical.

Don’t Stop was to have debuted at Chicago’s James M.

Nederlander Theatre on Oct. 29, with a Dec. 1 closing date.

A developmental work session will take place in New York City this fall.

The 33-day Equity strike, which ended Feb. 8, prohibited union members from participating in the developmental labs that are increasingly common for Broadway musicals.

The cancellation of “Don’t Stop’s” pre-Broadway Chicago engagement appears to be the first production nixed as a result of the strike. The Chicago run was announced in January.

The new musical will feature a book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and a score featuring more than 25 Jackson

songs. Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon will direct and choreograph. The musical depicts Jackson and his collaborators as they rehearse for the 1992 Dangerous Tour.

The musical reportedly does not explore Jackson’s personal life.

The Jackson Estate has recently been waging a war of words with HBO over the upcoming documentary “Leaving Neverland,” which chronicles child sexual abuse allegations against the late King of Pop. Directed by Dan Reed, the controversial film, which debuted this year at the Sundance Film Festival, is set for a two-night HBO launch March 3-4. (Page Six)

B

But what about the villains?

SpongeBob SquarePants fans, mark your calendars for this one: Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob, will play The Penguin. John DiMaggio (Jake on Adventure Time) will play Mr. Freeze, Tara Strong (Bubbles on The Powerpuff Girls) will play

Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy, Carlos Alazraqui (Rocko on Rocko's Modern Life) will play Bane and Cas Anvar (Alex Kamal on The Expanse) will play Ra's al Ghul.

The film will arrive on home video on 4K, Blu-ray, and Digital late this spring, SyFy Wire reports. (CNET)

August 23, it bounced. YT Entertainment then filed a criminal complaint against Rampal in October.

The actor was served a legal notice under provisions of section 138 of the Negotiable

Instruments Act, 1881 on October 8, where he was asked to pay Rs 1 crore with interest, within 14 days.

But, as he failed to comply, a criminal complaint was filed against Rampal in the metropolitan magistrate court at Andheri on October 29.

Rampal then paid Rs 7.5 lakh to the firm on November 22, but as he failed to pay the entire loan amount, a commercial suit was filed for recovery of Rs 10,050,000 with interest, on Tuesday, after adjusting the Rs 7.5 lakh he had already paid.

Dasgupta has refuted Rampal’s claim and said the actor has not returned any money apart from Rs 7.5 lakh. (Hindustan Times)

orn as Mumtaz Jehan Begum Dehelvi, Madhubala began working in films at the young age of 9 – she made her debut as a child artiste in 1942 with Basant and her first adult role was Ganga in Neel Kamal (1947). Known as the Indian Marilyn Monroe and tragedy queen of Bollywood, a look at her reel and real life confirm that she was a rebel, a star who commanded adoration of millions and is remembered to this day.

The mix of innocence and vulnerability that she brought to the screen was only heightened by the roles she picked – of strong women who may have accepted the role society imposed on them but lived it a way all their own.

Mr and Mrs 55: In Guru Dutt’s only lighthearted film, Madhubala played a young, openminded woman who happily defied her aunt who wants her to conform to gender stereotypes.

Her portrayal is so fresh that actor Janhvi Kapoor recently said that the film celebrated feminism like few others.

Madhubala has done such a beautiful job in the film. The concept that the film raised, it dealt with feminism. Madhubala ji’s character was so forward thinking. Her aunt was also in the film, whose character was more (conservative about) how girls should behave in a society. They did not present it as an issue, they slipped it in beautifully in the story,” Janhvi Kapoor had said in an interview.

Mughal E Azam: Madhubala’s Anarkali is remembered as a weak character but if you watch K Asif’s classic closely, you realise that Anarkali overcomes the crimes committed against her and tells her story to the world. Apart from Akbar’s atrocities, she has to face humiliation at the hands of her lover Salim (Dilip Kumar). He slaps her and tells her that she is weak and her love isn’t genuine. The timid girl disappears,making way for a bold and confident woman who publically declares her love. The lyrics of the iconic song Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya are loaded with sarcasm for the emperor as well as the prince.

Mahal: Madhubala chose to be part of what can be arguably called Hindi cinema’s first film with a ghost in it. “The movie, “Mahal,” was a huge success, making the lead actress, Madhubala, who was barely 16, a superstar overnight. Nearly seven decades later, strains of the film’s signature song ‘Aayega aane wala’ are instantly recognizable to most Indians, evoking the suspenseful tale of lost love and reincarnation,” The New York Times wrote in its obituary for Madhubala.

Love on her own terms She is known to be a hopeless romantic who had tragic relationships – the most famous ones were with Dilip Kumar and Kishore Kumar. In an interview to Filmfare, Madhur Bhushan shared about Madhubala’s breakup with Dilip and said, “Bhaijan (Dilip) called my father ‘a dictator’ in court and sided with the Chopras (late BR Chopra, the director). Bhaijan could’ve simply said let’s change the location. Or remained neutral. Apa used to cry a lot those days. They had conversations on the phone trying to patch up. He kept saying, ‘Leave your father and I’ll marry you.’ She’d say, ‘I’ll marry you but just come home, say sorry and hug him.’”

The two never breached the divide between them. (Hindustan Times)

Crossword Solution

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 17, 2019

Fun Times

Archie

Take it easy and do whatever it takes to avoid getting (March 21into an emotional argument.

April 19) Expand your interests, knowledge and outlook, and keep your opinions to yourself.

ARIES

Make some changes at TAURUS home that will render your (April 20- surroundings more comfortMay 20) able and your relationships with loved ones more affectionate. The family that plays together stays together.

GEMINI (MAY 28June 20)

Be open to suggestions, but verify the information you are given before you act on it. A change of heart will help you see your relationship with someone differently. Learn from experience.

CANCER

The suggestions you make will change the way someone (June 21feels about you. Add a little July 22) romance to your life to bring you closer to a loved one.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Peanuts

Before you make a change, check your finances and see if you can afford the added expense. Be realistic and put plans on hold until you are in a better financial position.

Expand your interests, friendships and knowledge by getting out and participating. Get involved in activities and events that address your concerns, and strive for the kind of change you want to see happen.

Look past any current dilemma. If someone is trying to pressure you, know enough to walk away. Don't give in to demands that will upset you or ruin your plans.

A change to how or where SCORPIO you live will turn out better (Oct. 24- than you think. Once you realNov. 22) ize what you want, everything else will fall into place. Trust your judgment.

Think big, but stick to your SAGITTARIUS budget and don't rely on oth(Nov. 23Dec. 21) ers to do things for you. A change is only good if it puts your mind at ease.

Anger solves nothing, but CAPRICORN putting that energy to good (Dec. 22- use will help you figure out Jan. 19) the best way to move forward.

A change at home is favored.

Calvin and Hobbes Don't let the words or acAQUARIUS tions of others discourage (Jan. 20- you. An emotional situation Feb. 19) will take you by surprise.

Don't allow anyone to coerce you into making a decision you aren't prepared to make.

Enjoy the company of PISCES (Feb. 20- friends. Run your ideas by Mar. 20) someone who will offer honest opinions, suggestions and encouragement to keep moving forward. Romance is featured.