Sunday Magazine 15th Sept 2013

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Times September 15, 2013

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2 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Feature

Working together to prevent suicide O

n the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day, observed September 10, Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc.

has collaborated with the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Health to conduct a one day awareness and training programme in the effort to increase aware-

ness on the whole issue of suicide.

Unless the root cause of the cancerous plague of suicide is thoroughly explored and addressed, local efforts

Adults and youths discussing the issue of suicide

will remain a drop in the ocean. Suicide and attempted suicide closely linked to gender-based violence and the worst forms of child abuse continue to spread like wild fire in Region Six, Corentyne. It must be noted that recently young children and teenagers also view this social issue as the “easy way out”.

Too many times it has been pointed out that unless ineffective parenting skills and substance abuse are seriously addressed we will continue to lose our people to suicide. These two areas have been identified time and time again, as contributing significantly to domestic violence. And yes, there is that negative, cultural acceptable norm of our upbringing that continues to fuel gender-based violence and suicide. “Shame” is the big word that prevents families from discussing their difficulties and seeking counselling.

Roadside was initially invited to organize and plan for 15 participants but because of the seriousness of what is happening on the Corentyne, as it relates to suicide and attempted suicide, negotiation with the Ministry of Health, through Rosemarie Terberg, resulted in Roadside given the opportunity to mobilize 20 participants.

Among the partici-

pants were religious leaders, representatives from the probation department, East Berbice Life Savers Club, Berbice Male Action Network, youths from the group trained as peer educators in the area of gen-

itators must be commended for their punctuality and diligence.

Some of the topics discussed were pillars for building self-esteem, suicide risk factors and risk situations, anger management and sui-

Participants actively contribute to the sessions

der-based violence and HIV/ AIDS, school welfare officers, Ministry of Health and the Domestic Violence Counselling Centre.

It was quite an interactive session. Facilitators Rosemarie Terberg Lewis, Robert Singh, Angela Correia and Audrey Schultz were all well-prepared.

Their presentations were followed by a barrage of questions which led to additional discussions. Handouts were readily available for the participants. The team of facil-

Interactive sessions at the centre on spreading awareness on suicide

cide prevention- warning signs of suicidal behaviour.

At the conclusion of the day, participants expressed great satisfaction for the wealth of new information gleaned. Some admitted that they had no clue as to the many factors that surround the issue of suicide and that they would never again ask a suicidal person why he/she wants to commit suicide. Instead they would steer the discussion to generate discussions on issues affecting suicidal persons.

They were encouraged to share the information with as many as possible and to continue their efforts at the community level to prevent suicide.

Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc. expresses gratitude to the team of facilitators and to the Ministry of Health for the opportunity to be used as a medium to increase awareness on suicide prevention. Appreciation is also expressed to the volunteers who worked industriously with this project.

For more information on the centre’s programmes call 338-4215/4213. (Submitted

by Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre)

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine

3

Times Focus

INSIDE

A

Keeping Pg 4 students in school

s “Education Month”, is being observed, we look back at the notable efforts of dedicated individuals who sought to ensure that all social classes have the right to equal academic opportunities.

Local charity group donates much-needed school stationery to hinterland students

Arrival of the missionaries

According to the Guyana Institute of Historical Research, the church was the largest private institution that contributed to the development of education, particularly at the primary level. The coming of the first missionary of the London Missionary Society (renamed the Congregational church) coincided with the abolition of the British participation in the African slave trade.

During slavery, the missionaries concentrated on teaching the children of freed parents.

Hermanus Post, a planter on the East Coast of Demerara had invited the London Missionary Society to send a missionary to his plantation at Le Resouvenir to instruct his slaves.

Rev. John Wray was the first missionary to work among the slaves. He arrived in Demerara in 1808. In 1813, Wray was asked by the commissioners of the crown estates, who had about 1100 African slaves under their care, to start the Berbice mission. But many of the Dutch planters were hostile to educating slaves.

Some of Guyana's first educators

cum-orphanage.

Colonial support

In 1840, the Combined Court voted $2,000.00 for the education of Amerindians. It had to be shared equally among the missions on Pomeroon, Essequibo, Demerara, Corentyne, and Berbice. During the 1840s, the Combined Court vacillated over whether they should continue to support the denominational schools for the Amerindians.

Between 1835 and 1845, the imperial government voted money for the education of the masses under the “Negro Education Grant”.

The government offered 30,000 pounds per annum for five years, and gradually reduced the grant each year until it ended in 1845. The missionary societ-

The Ebenezer Lutheran Church established schools specifically for the Indian immigrants

During the early part of the 19th century, the other main missionary societies in Guiana were the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel; the Methodist Missionary Society; the Church Missionary Society, which worked specifically among the Amerindians from about 1827 to 1858, the Church of Scotland (Presbyterian); the Roman Catholic Church and the Moravians.

Rev. John Davies, a missionary of the London Missionary Society, had taught the “free children of Georgetown”. In 1810, he distributed copies of a small spelling book, called the “First Class Book”.

In 1824, there were two free schools – one for boys and the other for girls. It appears as if some churches gave aid to the free schools. In 1838, it was recorded in the minutes of the Kirk session of St. Andrews that a collection of 1,155 guilders was to be divided equally between the two free schools.

Rev. J. Bernau introduced the “normal” school idea to the Bartica community in 1835. He had a day and evening school, and later a boarding school-

The National Library: Empowering the nation through reading Pg 6

ies, who were involved with the ex-slaves, were the beneficiaries of the funding.

The missionaries, like the Colonial Office, were concerned that the children of the masses were taught moral and religious education. Priority was not given to secondary education and teacher training.

Almost all of the schools established during the apprenticeship period began with classes in church buildings.

The teachers were either the minister or his wife, a catechist, or in very rare cases, someone with some experience of teaching.

In order to solve the problem of the shortage of teachers, the missionaries sought to establish “Normal Schools” where teachers could be trained to satisfy local needs. The bible was used for all instruction.

After 1845, some of the missions were forced to close their schools because of inadequate funding.

There was also a widespread feeling that the Africans should finance their own education. However, the churches, which continued in the field of education, were gen-

erally supported by their headquarters.

The Church’s role in education after emancipation

The Roman Catholics initially established schools for the Portuguese. In 1838, Dr. William Clancy, of the Roman Catholic Church, outlined his plan to send six ecclesiastics, three school masters and three school mistresses, for educating the population, and also to construct three school buildings in each county. By 1841, six nuns of the Sisters of Presentation arrived in the colony to open a day school and a boarding school.

In 1847, the Ursuline Convent School was established. By 1866, the Roman Catholic Church established St. Stanislaus College boys’ schools. In 1897, the St. Joseph High school for girls was established by the Sisters of Mercy.

The Anglican Church also participated in the field of education. In 1824, the St. George’s free school was established, under the aegis of the Anglican Church. The school was conducted separately for boys and girls. Another Anglican school, All Saints was established in New Amsterdam, Berbice, in 1829.

In 1851, Bishop’s College was launched with the support of the S.P.C.K. It was established for the training of theological students and the general training of teachers. The Methodists, Presbyterians, and the Anglicans established schools for the Indians.

The planter Quintin Hogg supported the Anglican Church

in the erection of a series of buildings of a chapel-school combination in Essequibo and Demerara. One such chapelschool building was erected at Bel Air, on the East Coast of Demerara in 1873.

“The school-house is built then to make you happy – to teach you to love God because He is your Father.

I have and want you to listen every Sunday at 2 o’clock there will be school for the children. At 3 o’clock, there will be Service for the adults.

Every day there will be school for the children, and every Monday, at Half-past four, there will be a class for instruction in reading and writing in Hindustan and English,” Quintin Hogg is said to have commented.

Apart from the training institutes, estates’ schools, parochial schools and the orphan asylum, there were also private nursery schools, and special evening schools both in Demerara and Berbice.

There were evening or night schools at Nismes on the West Bank of Demerara, at Lusignan, Annandale, Enmore and Clonbrook. In addition, Indian immigrants received instruction at the Kingston Coolie School, and at the Church of Scotland at Lochaber in Berbice.

Other religious groups, the abandonment and reestablishment of private education

By the second half of the 20th century, there were private individuals who established high schools for the poorer classes. The Muslims and Hindus also established schools

Young Professional/ Star of the Week Pg 7

Nicole Kidman knocked down by cyclist

Pg 12

Adventuring South to Rewa

Pg 23

for the children of their followers. These individuals included Richard Ishmael, the Costello brothers, Sidney King, Hilton McAllister, Shruti Kant, Joseph Luck, Sir Homer, Walker Under Twelve, H.M. Pollard, and others too numerous to mention.

In 1976, private education was abandoned. The government introduced free education from nursery to university. During the 1980s, private lessons were popular and were run by teachers such as Wilfred Success, Teacher Chandra, Sir Wahab, Mrs Alli, Sir Trotz, Mrs Edna Perry, Mrs Maureen McGowan and Sir Lee. In September 1992, private education returned to Guyana. The first private school was Mae’s (1992), then Marian Academy (1998) and School of the Nations (1995). (Submitted by the Guyana Institute of Historical Research)

4

Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Feature

Local charity group donates much-needed school stationery to hinterland students notebooks, pencils, crayons, rulers, sharpeners, scissors, erasers, activity books and much more. On Aug. 6, 2013, the team journeyed to hinterland regions where each child received a “core bundle” of a backpack (or pouch), five notebooks, 12 pencils, an eraser, sharpener and ruler.

a month, the Georgetown Shapers were able to launch and fully execute this project– even surpassing our initial targets. This was made possible only because of the people, businesses, and organizations that stepped forward to help, either in the form of donating physical supplies and/

buy these school supplies, and now they don't have to.

This school year, some parents even kept their children at home because they just couldn't afford the stationery. So they are relieved that you brought supplies.

Their children are now coming to school and they are grateful. We didn't get to

It was only them that cared so much to come and do this for us. Thank you so much for all the clothes, even the movies that they brought for us, and all the shoes.

People are so happy for everything. May God bless [the Georgetown Shapers].

This good work should be continued, not only at

Dr. Khan (left) handing over teaching material to the Kurupukari Primary School headmaster

E

stablished in December 2012 with a mandate to make a difference in their community, the local Global Shapers group with 11 members – Global Shapers Georgetown Hub – embarked on its “Headstart Stationery Drive” to collect donations which would supply more than 400 students in Guyana’s hinterland with school supplies for the 20132014 academic year.

The Global Shapers Community is a worldwide network of more than 200 city-based “hubs”, developed and led by promising young leaders who want to build on their achievements and entrepreneurial drive to make a positive contribution to their communities.

The deadline for donations was Aug. 28, 2013 and the Georgetown Hub was very successful in securing all school stationery.

These included backpacks,

Global Shapers Georgetown Hub team sharing a fun moment with the students at Kurupukari

“From day one, the support we received from both the local and international community was overwhelmingly positive. Within just

or assisting with monetary donations. The generosity and compassion of many made this project a success,” said Dr Rosh Khan, project champion, who spearheaded the project, in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

On September 4, Shapers Ryan Hoppie and Khan travelled into Matthew’s Ridge by plane with 500 pounds of stationery. They held a dynamic session with more than 330 students, who were very grateful to receive the supplies.

say thank you enough but we would like to say a public thank you to Rosh Khan, Ryan Hoppie, and all the Global Shapers for what they have done.”

Then on September 6, Shapers Khan, Louisa Mancey, Venus Persaud, and Imarah Radix, travelled overland to Fairview Village, specifically to the Kurupukari Primary School where they had an interactive session with 90 students. The team spoke on the importance of education and had fun playing games

Fairview, but to all villages in Guyana. The Georgetown Shapers are doing the good and right things for people,” the main local contact for this project, Pastor Norbert expressed.

The major donors the team would like to thank are Red BandAid Foundation, Casey Zeman, Scotia Bank, Nigel’s Supermarket, Iwokrama, and the Civil Defence Commission.

Khan noted that the excess stationery supplies would be distributed to other remote communities

School supplies for Matthew's Ridge Primary School and Pakera Nursery School

After the donation was made to the Matthew’s Ridge Primary School and Pakera Nursery School, the main local contact for this project, Shondel St. Juste, said the community “felt so great about the Global Shapers coming to us.” And added, “I must also say that the parents are so glad about this because it takes a lot from them to

with the students.

“These children are so happy. The parents are so happy. We are happy. The whole village is happy right now. I have to say that no one came and did what the Georgetown Shapers team did. We went and we checked and realized no one came and did this like they did. It was so very well-organized and well-represented.

across Guyana.

Due to the success of this project, the Georgetown Shapers are now planning to make this an annual event, and will support other schools and communities across Guyana.

For more information on this project visit Global Shapers Community - Georgetown Hub on Facebook.

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine 5

Times Women

Thoughts and Experiences I

Life informs the books of Anne Coltman

n her two creative and celebrated books, U.S. - based Guyanese author Anne Coltman shares her life growing up in Guyana, narrating her

and a novel “Scarred with Fortune”.

Practicing what she learnt from her grandmother with her own children and then with her

Anne's novel "Scarred with Fortune"

struggles, adventures and loving grandmother.

Born in British Guiana, Anne was privileged to grow up in a household which included her maternal grandmother. She is the second of five children and the first girl born to her parents, and was often called upon at an early age to help out with her younger siblings. Anne became fascinated by the myths and beliefs that were a part of child rearing and taught to her by her grandmother.

The author migrated to the U.S. as a young woman with her family and spent her early years having a full career while she and her husband raised their three children – two daughters and one son.

She and her husband reside on Long Island, New York.

After twenty-five years in permanent mission at the United Nations Organization she is now retired to devote more time to family and her passion for writing. Anne enjoys writing, classical music, theatre and antiques.

She has produced a comprehensive family history as well as a book of poetry, “For the Love of Grandma”

grandchildren has inspired the writing of her debut volume of poetry, “For the

Love of Grandma”.

“For the Love of Grandma” is a collection of thoughts and experiences that not only preserves a long lost tradition, but also reflects on the drastic change in the role of grandmothers today and grandchildren of this age.

On her website, Anne describes her book as an amusing and informative piece that is a mustread for all ages. It added that the interesting poems about growing up with “Grandma” will touch hearts and is an interesting read for first-time grandmothers. The website went on to say that the book dispels the many hang-ups about becoming a modern day grandmother and affords the opportunity of seeing one’s self as seen through the eyes of their grandchild.

Additionally, the book helps children to see themselves through the eyes of their grandparents. The love, understanding, helpfulness and discipline that come with this book will not fail to delight.

The author’s other book, “Scarred with Fortune”, narrates life’s unexpected surprises in a heart-warming story of enchanting entertainment as readers enter the lives of an ordinary family and open the door to

"For the Love of Grandma" book cover

Guyanese author Anne Coltman

their extraordinary world.

Anne takes readers through the life of a young girl from a middleclass family whose parents were very conservative.

Her young life was overwhelmed with heartache since her secret love was from an upper-class family with very influential parents. Although their lives took different and unex-

pected paths they shared a common bond which attracted an evil enemy who threatened to destroy her family.

“Characters Fiona Leighton and Steven Brimm are two teenagers who graduated high school together but their lives took different and unexpected paths. While he enjoyed the freedom of young

adult life, she suffered a lot of heartache and embarrassment which had an enormous effect on her as well as her family. This placed her in a compromised position and her life took on a new dimension.

Even though they were worlds apart and shared a common bond, Fiona kept her secret furtively locked up in her heart, fiercely guarding her privacy and that of her family,” Anne related on her website.

This novel portrays unrequited love, unexpected romance, heartaches and surprises and secrets waiting for readers to unravel. It will make anyone a believer in destiny as they are drawn into the realm of fate that brought Fiona into contact with the legacy of Steven Brimm in her adult years. When the common bond that linked them was revealed many years later and the secret which she guarded all her life unfolded it opened the door to a world of fortune.

“Scarred with Fortune” is another great read for all ages.

For more information on the author visit her website www.booksbyannecoltman.com

6 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Book World

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

The National Library: Empowering the nation through reading

By Petamber Persaud

O

n Friday Aug. 20, 2013, the National Library of Guyana held an award ceremony for its annual literary competitions. The high point of the event was the Champion Readers Competition which usually generates much interest. Various readings by winners were entertaining and instructive.

The Champion Readers Competition was divided into five categories of readers – Category 1: 9 – 11 years; Category 2: 12 – 14 years; Category 3: 15 – 17 years; Category 4: 18 – 25 years and Category 5: 26 years and over.

The Champion Readers Competition included a recent addition to the annual competitions – inmates of four correctional institutions in Guyana: Georgetown, New Amsterdam, Lusignan and Timehri prisons.

The custodians of the library, in their wisdom, buttressed the reading competition with other competitions such as quiz, short story writing and debating competitions, all of which fell in line with English essayist and philosopher, Francis Bacon’s quote, “Reading maketh a full man, conference a ready man, and writing an

exact man.”

The words ‘support’ and ‘buttress’ seem to be appearing frequently. The reason for the frequency of these words is that the library was partnered to stage the various types of competition directly by Digicel, P&P Insurance Brokers and Gafoors.

Sponsorship for the event included Sterling Products, Hotel Tower, Ansa McAl, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Giftland, Universal Bookstore and The Learning Channel, among many, many others.

Top markers for the reading competitions were Ashley Drakes, Ruth Mandbodh, Jamal La Rose, Deborah Lambert and Nandi

Kellman.

The National Library is marking its 104th year in service to the nation, fulfilling to the hilt its mandate, which is ‘to satisfy both nationally and internationally the information and recreational needs of the library’s users through the collection, organisation, dissemination and preservation of information in printed and other formats’.

In fact, the library was built upon such a premise, captured in the life and words of Andrew Carnegie (1835-1918): “I choose free libraries as the best agencies for improving the masses of the people, because …they only help those who help

themselves. They never pauperize…A taste for reading drives out lower tastes.”

Andrew Carnegie, according to Wikipedia, was “a Scottish-American industrialist who led the enormous expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century. He was also one of the highest profile philanthropists of his era; his 1889 article proclaiming "The Gospel of Wealth" called on the rich to use their wealth to improve society, and stimulated wave after wave of philanthropy.”

The National Library, Georgetown, Guyana, was opened to the public in September 1909. Although funding provided by Andrew Carnegie was available, it took about two years of preparatory works to qualify for that funding. A site for erection of building had to be located, design for erection approved and ordinances for the purchase of books and other requisites had to be passed. A provisional committee appointed in 1907 effectively dealt with those issues resulting in enactment of the Georgetown Public Free Library Ordinance and the laying of the foundation stone one year later in 1908.

The National Library is situated at the juncture of Main and Church streets, Georgetown. The original building was in the form of an inverted cross. Down the ages there were numerous modifications to the original structure. In 1935, the original erection was extended to house the Economic Science, Anthropological and Historical Sections of the Museum. That was a blessing in disguise for when in

1951, the museum exhibits were moved to the new museum building, the library was able to utilise the whole structure for its operation.

One of the more important target groups to make use of this additional space was the juveniles – children having a separate space.

At the turn of the new millennium, there was need for more space at the headquarters of the library and so a new wing was added. Completed in 2001, the extension housed the Administrative Department, Technical Services and

compilation of a Guyanese National Bibliography was made more favourable when the Newspaper Ordinance was amended in 1972 to make the National Library one of the legal depositories for all materials printed and published in Guyana. That meant that one copy of every material that is printed or published in Guyana must be deposited at the National Library.

Other services offered by the National Library include a photocopying operation which came on stream in 1966, a gramophone re-

Rural Departments, thereby creating more space for the Reference and Juvenile Departments.

Even with the extension, the central library could not meet the literacy needs of the whole country. Branches of the library were established after the 1950 legislation was passed to extend the library services outside of Georgetown; first in New Amsterdam (1953) then Mackenzie (1955). Now the library has a presence in all ten administrative regions of the country with the establishment of five Branches in New Amsterdam, Linden, Ruimveldt, Bagotville and Corriverton; 20 library centres in rural areas; deposit collections and service to four prisons.

What needs the central library and its branches could not satisfy had to be met by the operation of a bookmobile. The first bookmobile service was established in 1970, catering for areas like Tucville, Peter’s Hall, Houston, Agricola, Providence and Soesdyke. A second bookmobile was put into service in 1976.

Apart from the physical improvements to the building, there were numerous developments in services offered by the library. Two of the more significant developments were the ‘open access’ system in 1940 and the publication of a Guyanese National Bibliography in 1973.

That invaluable recording of our literary heritage became possible as a National Library came into being when in 1972 the Public Free Library Ordinance became the National Library Act. The

cord library opened in 1969, a reading room, a toy library established in 1981 in the juvenile department to cater for the needs of preschoolers, and an Internet service.

The operation of the library is managed by the committee of the National Library which should consist of a chairman and not more than twelve or less than nine other persons.

The National Library has become so entrenched in the psyche of Guyanese people that more and greater demands are being made of its services as an educational, social, cultural and recreational institution.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@ yahoo.com What’s happening: • The Guyana Annual 2012-2013 magazine is now available at Guyenterprise Ltd, at Austin’s bookstore and from the editor at the above contacts. This issue of the magazine is dedicated to E. R. Braithwaite. The magazine also features articles on copyright, law of intellectual property, creative industries, oral traditions of Guyana, the future of West Indian cricket and the future of books.

• Coming soon “Coolie Woman: The Odyssey of Indenture” by Gaiutra Bahadur • Now available ‘Selected Fictions” by Ruel Johnson, shortlisted for this year Guyana Prize for Literature.

• Coming soon: “An Introduction to Guyanese Literature” by Petamber Persaud.

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine 7

Times Feature

Young Professionals

Star of the week

Ingrid Devair Orealla Community Forestry Worker

By Vahnu Manikchand

G

rowing up in the Amerindian village of Orealla, Ingrid Devair was the first of seven children, and has dedicated her life towards developing her community.

At the age of 31, that is still a top priority for her.

Childhood in Orealla was not extravagant, and she grew up deeply involved in her religion. Despite living in an isolated village, Devair’s lifestyle was influenced by the modernity of the coastland.

She attended Orealla nursery and primary schools, after which she earned a government hinterland scholarship to attend a school in Georgetown. She was placed with a guardian and attended the Richard Ishmael Secondary School where she wrote CXC. Moving to Georgetown was a difficult experience. “It was challenging for me to leave my family and move in with a stranger in a strange place. Georgetown was completely different, even though I used to go Corriverton, I found moving hard and it took me about two years before I could finally settle down,” she recalled.

After completing secondary school, Devair returned home where there was a shortage of teachers at her village primary school. She volunteered to assist with teaching for a few months though she had returned with the intention of going back to Georgetown to further her studies. However she was also asked to assist with teaching at the nursery school and once again agreed to volunteer. “I didn’t know how to turn them down because I felt as though I had to give back to the community,” she said.

Devair continued teaching from 2002 to 2005 at the nursery school since she was interested in community development, and was involved in several volunteer groups and projects in her community.

“From the time I returned home I got involved in community projects, and continued this over the years and eventually I became a community-minded person: everything I did was somehow beneficial to the community and it was a norm for me – there was no effort into it.”

In 2005, at the election for the Orealla/Siparuta Village Council, Devair was elected a council member and became village secretary; a capacity which she served until 2009.

After another election in 2009, she was re-elected and became village treasurer until 2012.

Devair then joined the Orealla/Siparuta Community Developing Organization as a committee member when, in April of this year, she became a Community Forestry Worker, which is an EU funded pilot project that provides capacity training for villagers in their field of work.

Despite her achievements, Devair regrets not being able to further her studies since she was engrossed in community development projects. However she stated that she is hoping to do so in the future.

Nevertheless, she is satisfied with the fact that she was able to help her community and also to fulfil one of her dreams, which was to open a playschool. In October 2011, she established the Little Arc Angel Playschool.

“I have always dreamed to have a day care centre, but because of finances I couldn’t open it. So I was pleased to have the playschool as an alternative, and it was something the community needed,” she noted.

Devair advises young people to hold on to their dreams and get into a career they are interested in. “You should try your best and do something that would give you joy and satisfaction so at the end of the day you would not be discouraged by it. And do not be selfish. Choose a job that would benefit your community or get involved in community development projects so that you can give back.”

Recently crowned Miss Bartica Regatta 2013, Faydeha King developed a love for pageantry at an early age. At the age of 15, Faydeha won the Miss Corriverton Pageant title and later went on to be a runway model with veteran fashion designer, Sonia Noel. The years of experience she gathered with Noel motivated Faydeha to participate in the 2012 Model Search competition. She then decided to compete in the 2012 Miss Jamzone Pageant, emerging first runner-up, before moving on to the 2012 Miss Guyana Universe Pageant where she was crowned fourth runner-up. The 20-yearold beauty of Scotsburg, Corriverton, Berbice, believes that pageantry is not only a venue for showcasing beauty, talent and education, but also builds self-esteem and provides a platform to make a difference. A graduate of the Skeldon High School, Faydeha has completed one year of A-level studies at School of the Nation’s Sixth Form in New Amsterdam. During her reign as Miss Bartica Regatta 2013 she hopes to focus on youths and visit schools to talk about the harmful effects of bullying.

Faydeha is also an active member in a newly formed youth group, the New Youths Foundation, created by the eight contestants of the 2013 Bartica Regatta. The organisation seeks to provide for the less fortunate and will offer assistance and training on how to counsel youths who have been abused in their homes or bullied at school. Faydeha continues to pursue her passion for pageantry, using the platforms it provides to raise awareness on various social issues.

8 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Kids Page

Did you know?

T

he yak (Bos grunniens and Bos mutus) is a herd animal found in the mountainous regions of central Asia. The yak lives at altitudes of 13,000 to 20,000 feet (3,960 to 6,100 m). It feeds on sparse grasses, herbs, and lichens.

Although there is a large domestic population of yak, there are only a few wild yak remaining. The yak is still used in many parts of central Asia, for pulling heavy farm machines and transporting large loads through the mountain passes.

Like other species of cow, the yak is an herbivore and spends a great deal of time on grassy plains in the mountains grazing on grasses, herbs and wild flowers. In a similar way to other cow species the yak has more than one stomach which the yak uses to successfully get all of the nutrients out of the plants that it eats.

T

he yak tend to gather in herds from 10 yaks to 100 yaks, most of which are female. There are only a few male yaks per herd.

The yak has firm, dense horns which the yak uses to break through snow in order to get the plants that are buried beneath it and the yak will also use its horns in defence.

Hidden Objects 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.

Colouring Fun

The playful kittens are trying to find the spatula, flag, stocking hat, broom and bunch of grapes hidden here.

please see solution on page 22

guyanatimesgy.com

september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine 9 Pillar candles typically stand alone and do need a stand or holder.

Tea lights

CANDLES

By Laurie Triefeldt

Candles have been used since ancient times, and until the early 1900s were still the most common source of artificial light. Today, candles come in many sizes and shapes, from tapers, votives, pillars and tea lights to jar candles, floating candles, religious candles, outdoor candles, novelty candles, utility candles and birthday candles.

Some history

Safety

Candlemaking evolved at different times and places. The Egyptians and Cretans made candles from beeswax as early as 3000 B.C., and candles were made from whale fat by the Chinese during the Qin Dynasty (221–206 B.C.).

In Colonial North America, candle wax was made from the berries of bayberry bushes.

Early candlemaking was a tedious affair that required dipping the wick into the wax repeatedly.

Spermaceti (an oil produced by the sperm whale) was used to make higher quality candles in the 18th century.

Spermaceti

Beeswax Notched candles were used for timekeeping in China as early as 520 B.C.

What they are made from

Candles have been made from a variety of materials: natural oils from seeds and plants, tallow (animal fat) and wax from the honeycombs of bees. Paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, came into use in the 1850s and revolutionized candlemaking. Today, most candles are made with paraffin wax because it burns cleanly and without odors.

Sperm whale

Candles can be a serious fire hazard if not used properly. Never leave a candle burning when no one is in the room. Don’t burn candles in bedrooms; you might fall asleep with them lit. Don’t burn candles near flammable objects (curtains, decorations, etc.). Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

When making candles (with or without a kit), it is important to remember that wax is highly combustible and has a flashpoint. Wax doesn’t boil to tell you it’s hot. It just keeps getting hotter and hotter until it starts to smoke and bursts into flames. The flashpoint is usually between 290 F and 380 F. Never melt wax on your stove unless you are using the double-boiler method.

Have a fire extinguisher nearby and a heavy pot lid in case you need to smother a fire.

In Sweden (and other Scandinavian countries), St. Lucia Day is celebrated on December 13 by crowning a young girl with a wreath of candles.

In religion

The ritual lighting of candles has played an important role in many religions throughout history.

In Christianity, candles are commonly used in worship both for decoration and ambiance, and as symbols that represent the light of God, or specifically the light of Christ. Candles are often placed on the altar. Votive candles may be lit as an accompaniment to prayer.

Candles have deep symbolic meaning in Judaism and are used on many religious occasions.

Candles are lit prior to every Shabbat. During Hanukkah (the Jewish Festival of Lights), candles are lit each night.

Kinds of candles Votive candles should be used in a votive holder.

Many Hindu homes light candles at dawn and dusk.

Buddhists place candles on shrines or images of the Buddha as a sign of respect.

Container candles are wax (often scented) poured into a special glass, tin or pottery jar.

Birthday candles

In Wicca, candles are used on altars and to create ritual circles.

Fun facts

Candles are used in seven out of 10 U.S. households.

Manufacturer surveys show that 90 percent of all candles are purchased by women.

More than 1 billion pounds of wax are used in producing the candles sold each year in the U.S. Estimates suggest that there are more than 10,000 candle scents.

Fragrance is by far the most important characteristic impacting candle purchases today.

Candle users say they most frequently burn candles in the living room (42 percent), followed by the kitchen (18 percent) and the bedroom (13 percent).

Candles were traditionally used to light up Christmas trees before the advent of electric lights. (This is very dangerous.)

By the numbers

The retail sales of candles in the United States add up to about $2 billion annually.

Candle sales by season Holidays

35%

Taper candles are slender and range in height from 6 inches up to 20 inches.

Novelty candles come in a vast array of themes.

Non-holidays

65%

To celebrate Kwanzaa, seven kinara candles are lit each day of the holiday. Each candle represents one of the principles of the holiday.

Floating candles

Kwanza honors the heritage of African-Americans, and is observed from December 26 to January 1.

SOURCES: World Book Encyclopedia, World Book Inc.; www.candles.org; www.candlewic.com

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Times Fashion

T

he executives of Guyana Fashion Week climaxed their week of activities commemorating Water Week 2013 with an elite open air fashion festival at Seven Ponds in the Botanical Gardens.

It was a commendable collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, together with the Environmental Protection Agency and Guyana Fashion Week (GFW).

The evening was not only a flamboyant fashion gala but a forum to raise awareness of the potential water crisis.

In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine , GFW CEO Sonia Noel stated that the designers’ creativity at the event was expertly showcased as they presented their collections in harmony with the theme of water conservation. She added that the designers are currently busy preparing for GFW 2013, scheduled for October 20-27.

For more information on GFW call 226-3099. (Photos by Sean Duncan)

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Times Sunday Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

D

onald Cotrona is an American actor. Cotrona was born in New Haven, Connecticut. He is of three eighths Italian descent; his other ancestry includes Polish, German, Hungarian, Austrian, and English.

Cotrona was studying to be a lawyer; however, after doing a summer internship at a law firm, he realized he did not like working with lawyers.

In his sophomore year, he switched to acting; during his spring break, he went to visit a friend in Los Angeles and never returned to college. His first major role was in Fox’s 2003 drama, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, “Skin”.

In 2005, he landed another major role in the horror film “Venom”. He also starred in the 2006 Slamdance Film Festival film “Love is the Drug”. Cotrona landed a lead role in a 2005 TV series, playing Sean Mathers, a flower shop worker with a dark past who is part of a group of lottery winners, in the NBC series “Windfall”. In 2010, Cotrona appeared in the film “Dear John”. He is best known for his role in the film “G.I. Joe: Retaliation” (2013).

12 Times Sunday Magazine

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Times Hollywood

A

N

icole Kidman says she was shaken up after being knocked down by a bicyclist on a New York City sidewalk.

Kidman appeared on the red carpet Thursday night celebrating Francisco Costa's 10th anniversary as the women's creative director of the Calvin Klein Collection.

Earlier, she was outside the Carlyle Hotel when she was hit by a bicyclist. She was knocked to the ground, but in an interview with

the Associated Press at the Calvin Klein event, she said she was okay.

Kidman added: "I'm up, I'm walking around, but I was shaken."

The New York Police Department says a 19-yearold bicyclist was issued three summonses for riding a bike on the sidewalk, riding a bike with no helmet and reckless endangerment.

TMZ.com identified the cyclist as freelance paparazzo Carl Wu. (People)

new movie series inspired by Harry Potter is in the works at Warner Bros., the same studio who enjoyed huge success for the recently-wrapped wizard film franchise.

The author of the popular book series, J.K. Rowling, is confirmed to write the script for the project.

It will mark Rowling's screenwriting debut. The film will be inspired

by Harry Potter's Hogwarts textbook "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them". It will also feature Newt Scamander, the schoolbook's fictitious author in the Potterverse.

"It all started when Warner Bros. came to me with the suggestion of turning 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' into a film. I thought it was a fun idea, but the idea of seeing Newt Scamander, the supposed author of 'Fantastic Beasts', realized by another writer was difficult," she says.

"Having lived for so long in my fictional universe, I feel very protective of it and I already knew a lot about Newt. As hard-core Harry Potter fans will know, I liked him so much that I even married his grandson, Rolf, to one of my favourite characters from the Harry Potter series, Luna Lovegood."

"As I considered Warners' proposal, an idea took shape that I couldn't dislodge. That is how I ended up pitching my own idea for a film to Warner Bros," so she explains.

"Although it will be set in the worldwide community of witches and wizards where I was so happy for seventeen years, 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' is neither a pre-

quel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world," she adds.

"The laws and customs of the hidden magical society will be familiar to anyone who has read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, but Newt's story will start in New York, seventy years before Harry's gets underway," the writer continues.

"We know that audiences will be as excited as we are to see what her brilliant and boundless imagination conjures up for us," said Warner Bros.

Chief Executive Kevin Tsujihara of "their expanded creative partnership" with Rowling.

As part of the agreement, Warner

Bros will also serve as the worldwide TV distributor for the upcoming BBC TV adaptation of her recent adult novel "The Casual Vacancy" which is expected to air in 2014.

"Harry Potter" series has spawned seven books and becomes one of the best sellers in history. "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" is one of the two small volumes Rowling wrote based on the Potter saga. The other one is "Quidditch Through the Ages" also named after Harry's schoolbook within the main novels.

Both were published in March 2001.

Another spin-off book is "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" released in December 2008. (AceShowbiz)

Lance Armstrong returns his Olympic medal

L

ance Armstrong has returned his Olympic bronze cycling medal, the latest fallout from his confession to using performance-enhancing drugs.

Armstrong won the medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. The International Olympic Committee in January vacated the medal Armstrong won in the road time trial. Armstrong Tweeted Thursday that he gave it back and a U.S. Olympic Committee spokesman released a statement confirming its return.

Armstrong's Tweet included a photo of the medal and its blue ribbon along with the message: "The 2000 Bronze is back in possession of @usolympics and will be in Switzerland asap."

Mark Higgins, who has been a manager and spokesman for Armstrong for several years, gave the medal to USOC chief executive officer Scott Blackmun at the DallasFort Worth airport on Thursday. Armstrong

declined further comment.

The IOC has said it will not reallocate Armstrong's bronze medal, just as cycling's ruling body decided not to declare any winners for the Tour titles once held by the American. Spanish rider Abraham Olano Manzano, who finished fourth in Sydney, will not be upgraded and the bronze medal will be left vacant in Olympic records.

(People)

Kris Humphries to auction off Kim’s engagement ring

T

wo years after their split, and three months after their divorce was finalised, Kris Humphries is getting rid of the final remnants of his marriage to Kim Kardashian - by selling off her engagement ring.

According to RumorFix, the Humphries listed the ring to be auctioned off at Christie's in New York City and although the auction house would not disclose the seller's name (simply stating a "gentleman" had put it up for sale), the site reports that the Lorraine Schwartz ring, featuring a 16.21-carat centre diamond and two 1.80-carat side diamonds is "identical" to the ring Kim wore.

The ring cost Kris a whopping $2 million, but it's predicted it will fetch between $300,000 and $500,000 at auction - a significant loss for the NBA player. But despite this loss of funds, a source close to his former wife told Us Weekly that they both couldn't wait to get rid of it: "Kim has been waiting for the day he would auction it. Everyone always asked what Kim did with the ring -- she silently gave it back over a year ago! And Kris waited until the divorce was final to sell it." (Glamour)

R

september 15, 2013

icha Gangopadhyay is an Indian film actress, model and former beauty queen. After appearing in commercials, she made her film debut in the 2010 Telugu political drama “Leader”. Since then she has starred in several commercially successful Telugu films, including “Nagavalli” and “Mirapakaay”. In 2011, she starred in her first Tamil film, “Mayakkam Enna”, earning positive reviews for her performance. In 2005 and 2006, Richa participated in beauty pageants and finished in the top ten in the Miss India USA competitions, winning a smaller prize for Miss Congeniality. In August 2007, she won the Miss Michigan pageant and was crowned Miss India USA 2007. Richa left the U.S. in 2008 to Mumbai, India, to pursue a career in films. In 2012, she made her debut in Bengali, her mother tongue, in the film “Bikram Singha: The Lion Is Back”. The actress is currently busy filming the upcoming Telugu movie, Bhai”.

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Times Sunday Magazine 13

Star Times Bollywood

14 Times Sunday Magazine

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Times Bollywood

Oberoi wants Kareena open to doing Vivek Van Damme in 'Masti 3' intimate scenes T A ctress Kareena Kapoor Khan says that marriage has not changed her perception towards roles in films and she is open to do intimate scenes if the script demands.

"Marriage has nothing to do with the kind of roles or such things... I fail to understand why people associate love or marriage with your career," Kareena said.

Kareena had done some intimate scenes in Vishal Bhardwaj's “Omkara” with Ajay Devgn and there was also a kissing scene with Aamir Khan in “3 Idiots”.

In Prakash Jha's recently-released film “Satyagraha”, there was a romantic sequence between Kareena and co-star Ajay

Devgn. However, Kareena reportedly refused do the scene.

"It was all media reported. Whatever the script requires, I do it. But in a film like Satyagraha I feel it was not required. It was not a romantic film that we need to have it (kissing and intimate scene)...It was more about the fight of a common man against the system," Kareena said.

When asked if her husband actor Saif Ali Khan had seen “Satyagraha”, she said, "No. He does not watch films much." Saif and Kareena got married last October after a five-year courtship.

"I don't feel overburdened by responsibilities.

My priority has always

been my family. I have always balanced my personal and professional life and I will continue to do so," she added. Kareena is happy with the response she is getting for her latest film “Satyagraha”. (Hindustan Times)

Soha Ali Khan raises 100,000 pounds for charity

A

ctress Soha Ali Khan is elated after being able to raise 100,000 pounds from a charity dinner held in London. The money will go to the Pataudi Trust, which will use it for curing blind people in India.

Soha, daughter of veteran actress Sharmila Tagore and late cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, attended the dinner with her family members.

"What a fantastic night!

We raised 100,000 pounds which will all go towards eradicating curable blindness in India. Heartfelt gratitude," Soha posted on

Twitter.

"We are eternally grateful to Jeffrey Archer (British author) for making tonight such a huge success. Thank you. You helped us raise 100,000 pounds," she added.

Apart from charity, the 34-year-old is busy with upcoming comedy movie “War Chhod Na Yaar”.

Directed by debutant Farz Haider, the movie also stars Sharman Joshi and Javed Jaffrey. (Times of India)

he third film from the "Masti" franchise is yet to be confirmed but Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi has already gone a step ahead and asked Hollywood action star JeanClaude Van Damme to be a part of "Masti 3".

The 37-year-old actor's "Grand Masti", a sequel to the 2004 adult comedy hit theatres today.

Vivek said he is a great fan of the "Universal Soldier" star, who is on his maiden visit to India, and would love to see him do a different kind of action film in Bollywood.

"I was just talking to Jean-Claude. I am a huge, huge fan of him. I told him that it is time to see him make a triple impact in 'Masti 3'. It will be fun to see him do a helicopter kick in the film... It is also action but a different kind of action," Vivek joked.

Van Damme was in the capital to attend the CII Big Picture Summit, along with his producer friend Ashok Amritraj, who launched his autobiography “Advantage: Hollywood” here.

"I have had a wonderful two and half days. I have had the pleasure to be part of Indian culture first in Dubai and then Macau (for IIFA). But, I am glad to finally make it to here.

I thank you for making me what I am today," Van

Damme said.

Van Damme and Amritraj were the key speakers at the event's first discussion on 'Reaching the Global Audience', with Vivek and Gulshan Grover being the last minute additions.

Concluding the session, Van Damme said there should be a cinema school in India which trained directors in making global impact with their films. (Times of India)

Madhuri Dixit's father passes away

B

ollywood diva Madhuri Dixit's father, Shankar R Dixit, died on Friday morning after prolonged illness.

He was 91.

Shankar's family was by his side when he breathed his last.

"We'll miss him but we know he lived a full life. We thank all those who have offered their condolences and prayers," Madhuri said in a statement.

The 46-year-old actress currently judges dance reality show “Jhalak Dikhla

Jaa”, which will have its finale this weekend. (Indian Express)

Preity Zinta faces non-bailable arrest warrant for bounced cheque

A

n Andheri court has issued a non-bailable warrant against Preity Zinta in a chequebounce case.

Zinta has been going through a rough patch ever since her first production venture, “Ishkq” in Paris, bombed at the box office landing the actress in huge debts. Abbas Tyrewala, who was commissioned to write the dialogues for the film filed a case against her after a cheque bounced.

The warrant was issued after Zinta failed to mark her presence in court in spite of repeated orders. She was with slapped fines for

failing to appear before the concerned magistrate on two occasions.

The warrant was issued in spite of Zinta's advocate, Ratneshwar Jha's application stating that Zinta was not in town. Talking to Mirror, he levelled a

string of allegations against Tyrewala. "They did not deliver on time. The dialogues were to be submitted within three days, which was not done. In fact even when it was handed over, it was not up to the mark and couldn't be used in the film. As far as the cheque is concerned, it was collected from our office and not given by Preity.

Even the date on the cheque was filled by Tyrewala.

"Preity is not in Mumbai.

I will challenge the magistrate courts order in the Bombay High Court," he said. When contacted, Tyrewala refused to comment. (Mumbai Mirror)

Imran Khan wants to watch Deepika in the shower

A

ctor Imran Khan has made it known that he is not quite the good boy everyone thinks he is. At least that is what it seemed when he was recently interviewed by an Indian entertainment channel.

To set the record straight, he first got slapped when he was just ten; tried to sneak a peek inside a girls' hostel; and drove his friends around while they made out in the back of his car. He further shared his thoughts on cheating while in a relationship; and friends with benefits. He even discussed his other (not so anymore) secrets.

The final shocker came when the actor said that he would like to see leading Bollywood actress and his “Break Ke Baad”

co-star Deepika Padukone while she is in the shower. (India Today)

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine

15

Times Healthy Living

S

ome things you should just not put in your mouth. From artificial flavors and colors to words you'd need an advanced degree in chemistry to pronounce, there are thousands of ingredients making their way into your food that are simply not, strictly speaking, food.

Cheese that isn't cheese

Cheese faking is an art nearly as popular as cheesemaking. All kinds of brands make not-cheese, but the classic is Easy Cheese.

This "pasteurized cheese snack" is full of fillers, oil, and emulsifiers. The ingredients are so un-cheeselike that lobbyers tried to force Kraft to call its cheese products "embalmed cheese" -- but the government settled on "processed cheese," according to the Complete Idiot's Guide to Cheese of the World.

Ingredients: Whey, cheddar cheese (milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes), canola oil, milk protein concentrate, whey protein concentrate, milk, contains less than 2% of sodium citrate, sodium phosphate, salt, calcium phosphate, lactic acid, sodium alginate, autolyzed yeast extract, sorbic acid as a preservative, cheese culture, enzymes, apocarotenal (color), annatto (color).

Mayonnaise that's not mayonnaise

Less of an impostor than a consumer mistake: This white spread doesn't technically meet the official definition of "mayonnaise," which requires at least 65% vegetable oil. What do you get instead? "Dressing," where the major players are water, soybean oil, and vinegar. Tasty? Sure. Mayo? No.

Vanilla that's not vanilla

There's actually no vanilla (nothing than even starts with the prefix van) on the ingredient list of Nilla Wafers. The only tribute to their namesake?

"Natural and artificial flavor," from what? The label doesn't tell us.

Ingredients: Unbleached enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), folic acid), sugar, soybean oil, high fructose corn syrup, partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil, whey (from milk), eggs, natural and artificial flavor, salt, leavening (baking soda, and/or calcium, phosphate), emulsifiers (mono- and diglycerides, soy lecithin).

Chocolate that's not chocolate

A chocolate chip cookie, by any other name, is a total red flag. See chocolatechip-flavored cookies. Why is it called "flavored"? To be called chocolate, the FDA requires that a food contain cocoa butter, and these use cheaper vegetable oils as substitutes. And yes -that partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil is code for trans fat. Better bake your

own.

Cream that's not cream

The world's most popular cookie is, believe it or not, vegan -- which is great for animals, but a bummer for anyone expecting cream in the middle. That white stuff -- creme, they call it -is a blend of canola oil, artificial flavors, sugar, and other suspect players. And sadly, the very last ingredient is chocolate.

Caramel that's not caramel

Caramel Syrup may look and taste like the gross approximation of caramel, but industrial caramel is way different than the kind you make at home using a sugar base. Some "caramel color" is processed with ammonia, and California even added the compound that makes it up -- 4-methylimidazole -to its list of known carcinogens. Companies don't have to disclose whether they use ammonia in their caramel color, so it's best to melt your own.

Whipped cream that's not whipped cream

When you see this fluffy stuff you can't help but wonder (sometimes before you eat it, but more often after): "Wait, what is that stuff?"

Truly, imitation whipped cream is a modern marvel, though very debatably "food." How else to explain the 14 ingredients responsible for a lightas-air texture? As the old childhood expression goes, "Pretty please, with imitation whipped topping and a cherry on top."

Peanut butter that's not peanut butter

Peanut-flavored sugar oil doesn't have quite the same ring, but it's far more accurate a name than this honey roast peanut butter from Peter Pan. What shouldn't contain added sugar has at least two types, plus partially hydrogenated oil (code for trans fat).

Ice cream that's not ice cream

Gone are the good ol' days of ice cream. Now, we're forced to shovel down spoonfuls of Frozen Dairy Dessert, which can't legally be called ice cream without containing at least 10% milk fat, according to this depressing New York Times lament of ice cream lost. What Breyer's Extra Creamy Vanilla Frozen Dairy Dessert (phew) does contain is plenty of corn syrup, gums, and whey.

Chocolate milk that's not chocolate milk

Take a closer look: That's chocolate drink in your hand, not chocolate milk. Yoo-hoo doesn't actually contain any liquid milk, but it does come with a dose of partially hydrogenated soybean oil (hello, trans fat!). We dare you to get even halfway down the ingredient list before shedding a chocolate-flavored tear.

M

ention the word “bedtime” and you’re sure to get groans from kids of any age. That’s especially true of teenagers who have spent the summer staying out late and sleeping until noon.

But when it’s time to go back to school, getting back into healthy sleep patterns is a necessity for having the right amount of focus and energy in the classroom.

“Anyone who’s had jet lag can relate to the feeling they can have when adjusting their sleep schedule,” says paediatric sleep specialist Jyoti Krishna, MD. “You’re sleeping at the wrong times, your mind is foggy and you don’t feel sharp.”

8.5 to 9.25 hours of sleep to function at their best. The amount of sleep an adult needs ranges between 7 and 9 hours.

2. Go 15 minutes at a time. “It’s not a good idea to wait until the day

4 tips for school-year sleep habits

If your kids — or you — have lapsed into a “late to bed, late to rise” sleep routine this summer, here are Dr. Krishna’s tips for getting back into proper school-year sleep routines: 1. Know the right amount.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, kids ages 5-12 need 10 to 11 hours of sleep. Teenagers need

b e f o r e school starts to make changes,” says Dr. Krishna. Start by shifting their wake time earlier by 15 minutes each or every other morning, then calculate the right bedtime based on the

amount of sleep they need. “Adjusting their wake time by two hours could take a week to 10 days,” he says.

3. Provide the right get-to-sleep conditions. “The last two hours before bedtime should be relatively quiet,” Dr. Krishna says. That means no exercise, no caffeine, cell phones off and limited television. The sun still sets late in the early weeks of the school year, so use heavy drapes that darken the room at bedtime; this signals their bodies that it’s time to sleep. Allow bright sunlight in when it’s time to wake up.

4. Take sleep deprivation seriously. “I liken it to cigarette smoking,” says Dr. Krishna. “Smoking one cigarette does not kill a person, but long-term smoking does affect people’s health. If you don’t get enough sleep for a long enough period of time, it begins to take a toll on your health.” Sleeping problems make chronic diseases harder to treat, he says, and contributes to a lack of energy, low pain tolerance, changes in hormone levels and a decline in learning and critical thinking.

16 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Home & Cooking

Chicken Salad Sandwiches Ingredients

T

raditional furniture brings to mind heavy, dark wood and the detailed carvings of “old world antiques”. Think modern furniture on the other hand, and crisp, clean, simple lines, lighter colours and clutter free designs come to mind. It’s a matter of choice, really; see if modern furniture is for you...

2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken, skin removed 1/2 cup diced celery 1/3 cup diced carrot 1/3 cup diced red onion 1/2 cup mayonnaise with olive oil

2 tablespoons yellow mustard 1 teaspoon celery salt 1 teaspoon granulated garlic Pinch of paprika Freshly ground pepper 6 whole-wheat rolls, split and toasted Lettuce and tomato, for topping

Method

Combine the chicken, celery, carrot, red onion, mayonnaise, mustard, celery salt, granulated garlic, paprika and 1 teaspoon pepper in a bowl. Mix until combined.

Serve the chicken salad on the toasted rolls with lettuce and tomato.

Cheesy Crusted Yeast Rolls

Hungarian-American architect, interior designer, designer and lecturer, Marcel Breuer designed the first steel tube furniture, of which, the "Wassily chair" (1925) remains a popular piece of furniture for homes furnished in the modern style

Ingredients 1 cup milk 1 tsp salt 3 tbsps sugar ¼ cup shortening 1 egg 3-3½ cups flour (if you use bread Method Warm milk in the microwave for 1 minute.

Add to mixing bowl along with salt, sugar, shortening and egg. Add 3 cups flour, and then yeast on top of flour.

Using dough hook, start mixer on LOW until all ingredients are combined and mixed.

Increase speed to 2-3 and knead 6-8 minutes or until smooth and elastic.

Add additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time as necessary. Dough should begin to hold a shape and not level out.

Remove dough from mixing dough, form into a loose ball and place in a greased bowl, turning quickly to grease all

Isamu Noguchi is foremost a sculptor, but his organic 1946 Free Form Sofa and Ottoman remains a classic modern furniture design

P

flour, you will need the lesser amount, unbleached flour-more, bleached flourthe most) 2¼ tsps instant or bread machine yeast 2 cups (4 ounces) sharp, shredded Cheddar cheese 1 tbsp milk

surfaces. Cover loosely and allow to rise to double in a warm place. Allow 60-90 minutes.

Push dough down

gently and turn out onto generously floured surface.

Place 1½ cups shredded

cheese on the dough and knead in. Cut dough in half then cut each of those halves into half and continue until you have 16 balls. Use your fingers to mould the dough into a smooth round ball.

Place small dough balls in a greased 8 or 9-inch round pan. Cover loosely and allow to rise again until almost double.

Before baking, carefully and lightly brush rolls with milk. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top of the rolls. Bake in 375 degree F oven until brown 13-16 minutes.

Allow to sit on the counter for 5 minutes. Run knife carefully around the edge of the pan to loosen rolls.

Flip out and let rest on cooling rack.

Greatest Cooking Tips

roblems with cake sticking to tin? Place a thick, clean towel in the kitchen sink and pour a kettle of boiling hot water over the towel to heat it (don’t plug the sink to retain the water, allow it to drain out). Set the pan on the hot towel and leave it for a minute or two, the cake should turn out easily.

Frosting and Icing: First ice with a thin layer, then refrigerate (covered). After an hour you can do a complete frosting job. This helps keep the crumbs at bay and your outer frosting layer should be crumb free.

Once you start slicing cakes, the exposed or cut sides can dry out quickly. Here’s a way to keep things fresh: Wrap the leftover cake with a few slices of apple or cubes of sugar or a slice of fresh bread set inside the pan (or in the open space of the plate). Make sure to store it in an airtight container or wrapped well in plastic wrap.

Mikhail Belyaev‘s Pebble Table is a nature-inspired furniture piece that consists of a glass surface continued below with a sleek storage section

T

Home Help

hread a needle with ease by dipping the end of the thread into colourless nail polish beforehand.

Wipe your shoelaces with a wet cloth after tying them. They will stay tied all day.

In an emergency, shampoo can be used in the place of shaving cream.

A thick paste made from baking soda and water will remove perspiration stains from clothing.

When postage stamps have stuck together, try placing them in the freezer for about 10 minutes – they should come apart without damaging the glue.

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine 17

Times Sunday Puzzle

Pete'sa Pete lists prices for his extra toppings in pairs. How much does each topping cost by itself?

Each price is whole-dollar increments.

Pineapple & Hot Peppers $7 Broccoli & Extra Cheese $6 Mushrooms & Onions $2 Black Olives & Hot Peppers $5 Pepperoni & Mushrooms $4 Onions & Black Olives $3 Extra Cheese & Mushrooms $5 see solution on page 22

see solution on page 22

see solution on page 22

18 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Creative Writing

Poem

I

n the beginning the Carib people lived in the bright land of the moon. And as they looked down upon the dark earth, they determined to descend and clean it and make it like unto their moon country. Coming down on the clouds, they toiled mightily, but when they thought to return, behold, the clouds which had borne them, had disappeared from their sight. Vainly they called upon Tamosi Kabo-tano, the Ancient One on high, for there was no answer to their prayers.

As they wandered they became faint with hunger and taking clay they made it into cakes, and baked them upon a fire of coals; but when this was done they found that clay cakes were not good for food. However, the Ancient one had not forsaken them, for they saw the birds eating of the fruits of the trees, and on eating these, they found them pleasant to the taste and good for food.

And after many days their souls loathed these wild fruits, and they said one to another, "Would that we had not left our homes in the land of the moon."

The Ancient One heard their complaint, and created a great tree, such as had not been seen before, nor had come after it unto this day. Each branch bore a different fruit, while on the ground beneath the shadow

Television The Ancient One heard their complaint, and created a great tree, such as had not been seen before, nor had come after it unto this day.

thereof, grew plantains, bananas, maize, cassava, yam, potato, and all fruits of the earth which men now cultivate.

And it came to pass that Maipuri the tapir passed that way, and seeing the strange fruits, he tasted and beheld that they were very good. And the tapir, which had hitherto been a lean beast, became sleek and fat. Men saw the change, but Maipuri would not tell whence it came. So they sent the woodpecker to spy out his ways, but the foolish woodpecker, as was his wont, still tapped each old tree. And the tapir, hearing this, departed another way.

Then men sent the rat that tracked the tapir's steps to the place, and partook of the fruits. Returning, he denied that he knew anything

of the tapir's secret, but not many days afterwards he returned from his wanderings with food sticking to his lips, and men knew that he had lied to them.

Forthwith they made him show his feeding place.

Coming to the place they said, "Praise be Tamosi Kabo-tana, who gives us such precious food." Then a voice was heard saying "Cut it down." In wonderment they took their stone axes to hew down the tree.

Ten months they laboured, and at the end of the tenth month the great tree crashed to the ground.

Then each man took cuttings from the branches, trunk and roots. Setting these in their fields, they sprang up and bore fruit, and so every man had food close to his own dwelling.

The most important thing we've learned, So far as children are concerned, Is never, NEVER, NEVER let Them near your television set -Or better still, just don't install The idiotic thing at all.

In almost every house we've been, We've watched them gaping at the screen.

They loll and slop and lounge about, And stare until their eyes pop out.

(Last week in someone's place we saw A dozen eyeballs on the floor.)

They sit and stare and stare and sit Until they're hypnotised by it, Until they're absolutely drunk With all that shocking ghastly junk.

Oh yes, we know it keeps them still, They don't climb out the window sill, They never fight or kick or punch, They leave you free to cook the lunch And wash the dishes in the sink -But did you ever stop to think, To wonder just exactly what This does to your beloved tot?

IT ROTS THE SENSE IN THE HEAD! IT KILLS IMAGINATION DEAD! IT CLOGS AND CLUTTERS UP THE MIND! IT MAKES A CHILD SO DULL AND BLIND HE CAN NO LONGER UNDERSTAND A FANTASY, A FAIRYLAND! HIS BRAIN BECOMES AS SOFT AS CHEESE! HIS POWERS OF THINKING RUST AND FREEZE! HE CANNOT THINK -- HE ONLY SEES! 'All right!' you'll cry.

'All right!' you'll say, 'But if we take the set away, What shall we do to entertain Our darling children? Please explain!'

We'll answer this by asking you, 'What used the darling ones to do?

'How used they keep themselves contented Before this monster was invented?'

Have you forgotten? Don't you know?

We'll say it very loud and slow: THEY ... USED ... TO ... READ! They'd READ and READ, AND READ and READ, and then proceed To READ some more.

Great Scott! Gadzooks!

One half their lives was reading books!

The nursery shelves held books galore!

Books cluttered up the nursery floor!

And in the bedroom, by the bed, More books were waiting to be read!

Such wondrous, fine, fantastic tales Of dragons, gypsies, queens, and whales And treasure isles, and distant shores Where smugglers rowed with muffled oars, And pirates wearing purple pants, And sailing ships and elephants, And cannibals crouching 'round the pot, Stirring away at something hot.

(It smells so good, what can it be?

Good gracious, it's Penelope.)

The younger ones had Beatrix Potter With Mr. Tod, the dirty rotter, And Squirrel Nutkin, Pigling Bland, And Mrs. TiggyWinkle andJust How The Camel Got His Hump, And How the Monkey Lost His Rump, And Mr. Toad, and bless my soul, There's Mr. Rat and Mr. MoleOh, books, what books they used to know, Those children living long ago!

So please, oh please, we beg, we pray, Go throw your TV set away, And in its place you can install A lovely bookshelf on the wall.

Then fill the shelves with lots of books, Ignoring all the dirty looks, The screams and yells, the bites and kicks, And children hitting you with sticksFear not, because we promise you That, in about a week or two Of having nothing else to do, They'll now begin to feel the need Of having something to read.

And once they start -- oh boy, oh boy!

You watch the slowly growing joy That fills their hearts.

They'll grow so keen They'll wonder what they'd ever seen In that ridiculous machine, That nauseating, foul, unclean, Repulsive television screen!

And later, each and every kid Will love you more for what you did.

Roald Dahl

Send your creative writing to sundaymagazine@guyanatimesgy.com

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine19

The animals mistaken for spies E

gyptian authorities detained a stork last week on suspicion of espionage, mistaking its migration tag for spying equipment. In fact the stork was innocent - like a number of other animals falsely accused over the years of undercover work.

In 2011, Saudi authorities arrested a high-flying vulture on suspicion that it was flying missions for Israel’s famously ingenious Mossad agency. And a spate of shark attacks near the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh in 2010 was blamed by one TV station on GPS-controlled predators planted by Israel in order to harm the Egyptian tourism industry.

Iran has also felt threatened by animal agents. In 2007 the Iranian

army arrested a team of 14 “spy squirrels” found near a nuclear enrichment plant. Officials said they succeeded in apprehending the suspects “before they were able to take any action”.

However, not all reports of pets on patrol are as far-fetched as they seem. Animals have been serving in the military as early as 1908, when Germans first attached cameras to pigeons to take aerial photographs.

Some programmes have been more successful than others. The CIA’s attempt to implant listening devices into a cat - dubbed Operation Acoustic Kitty - ended in failure on day one, when the kitty was run over by a car outside the Soviet embassy in Washington

DC. The project was estimated to have cost more than $14m.

Another failed project was the equally outlandish Bat Bomb, tried by the US in WWII, where bats were strapped to mini-incendiary devices and dropped over Japan.

The idea was for them to roost inside wooden Japanese buildings before bursting into flames. The atomic bomb ultimately proved more effective.

Perhaps the most successful recruits from the animal world have been dolphins. The US and Russia have confirmed the existence of marine mammal training programmes, where dolphins and seals are trained to identify underwater mines and disable enemy swimmers. But just like young

soldiers, dolphins have hormones, and can go awol. In March this year Ukraine’s Defence Ministry had to deny reports that three mil-

Times World

itary dolphins had escaped and were roaming the Black Sea in search of sex. (By Mohamed Madi, BBC News Magazine)

Women Living Longer Worldwide F

ewer women are dying of childbirth-related health issues, but a World Health Organization (WHO) report says more can be done to improve women’s health by addressing more than reproductive concerns.

The WHO found that globally, a woman’s life expectancy at age 50 — meaning the number of additional years she can expect to live based on current mortality trends for her country — has increased by an average of 2.3 years, with women in Brazil and Japan enjoying the greatest gains of four years or more and those in the U.S. gaining just under worldwide average at 2.2 years.

Most of the gains can be traced to improvements in reproductive health efforts that raise maternal and infant survival following childbirth, and lower deaths from preventable infectious and communicable diseases such as AIDS. And there is evidence that in lower income countries, mortality patterns are shifting to gradually resemble those of higher income nations, as health care services start to make

inroads in controlling communicable diseases.

But the WHO says the gap between women living in high and low-resource countries remains wide. Most healthcare services for women in developing nations focus on reproductive health, and the report predicted that overall, deaths from chronic conditions such as

heart disease and diabetes, as well as from cancer, will increase — by eight million for heart disease, to make up 38% of total deaths among women by 2050, and by 3.6 million for cancer, to account for 17% of total deaths. Applying some of the lessons learned by developed nations could curb this rising tide, say the WHO report authors, as

these diseases creep into the developing world. Adding strategies for preventing and managing heart disease such as screening for high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol levels could avoid some heartrelated deaths, while monitoring for the first signs of tumors with mammograms and pap smears, as well as vaccinating against human papillomavirus (HPV), which contributes to cervical cancer, could also protect more women from latestage cancers, which are more likely to result in death.

Even with such efforts in place, the WHO experts say public health officials shouldn’t expect to see immediate benefits in the form of longer-lived women. The data also showed that in middle-income countries where more women are starting to die of chronic diseases typical of better-off nations, the women are dying earlier than their wealthier counterparts. That suggests that their health may be more vulnerable, due to factors such as stress, untreated conditions including hypertension, and poorer nutrition, that could make heart

disease and cancer more deadly at earlier ages. “The trends described in this paper highlight the urgency of adapting health systems to better meet the changing health-care needs of women in low- and middle- income countries, primarily by improving the capacity to prevent and manage noncommunicable diseases,” the report authors write.

There is evidence that such programs do work. In developed countries, drops in blood pressure, cholesterol and obesity — all risk factors for heart disease — had contributed to a decline in heartrelated deaths among women, and rates of breast, stomach, colon and cervical cancers have also declined, helping more women to live longer. But tobacco use among women hasn’t changed enough to push lung cancer rates down in developed countries, which may contribute to smaller gains in longevity in countries like the U.S. (TIME Magazine) You can read the full report at http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/91/9/12-109710/en/index. html

20 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Tech

Apple's two new iPhones target high, low-end markets W

e use the term loosely, but the iPhone is no longer a "one size fits all" Smartphone.

Tuesday's Apple event marked the introduction of the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c, and beyond price, several unique features separate the two devices. Considering your own desires for gaming, photography, security, style -- and yes, your budget -- it's likely that one phone is a better fit for your needs. So join us after the break as we explore the finer points of Apple's latest Smartphones.

The iPhone 5S: Performance and photography lead the way

Apple's 64-bit A7 mobile processor takes centre stage in the iPhone 5s, which promises twice the computing and graphics performance as compared to the iPhone 5c. Naturally, the new chip positions the iPhone 5s as a better fit for gamers (which supports OpenGL ES 3.0), but it also offers unique advantages photographers.

Thanks to the A7 chip, you can shoot slow-motion 720p video at 120 fps, and as for stills, you'll find a burstshooting mode that captures up to 10 images per second.

Digital image stabilization is also in the mix this time around, which is important for low-light photography.

Speaking of low-light situations, the iPhone 5s captures more light in two ways. First, it features a new lens setup with a wider f/2.2 aperture (as compared to f/2.4 in the iPhone 5c) along with an imaging sensor that's 15 percent larg-

Tech Byte

er. And for times when ambient light alone won't cut it, the iPhone 5s includes a new dual-LED flash dubbed True Tone that promises better colour balance and more natural skin tones.

Regardless of your age or occupation, you probably have private data that you'd prefer keep to yourself. Yes, a security code on the lock screen is a relatively effective method, but the iPhone 5s offers a more convenient -- and potentially more secure -- alternative that relies on fingerprint-scanning.

The setup is known as Touch ID, which integrates a fingerprint reader into the phone's home button. In addition to serving as a lock screen unlock method, the new Touch ID system can eliminate the hassle of typing in your password every time you purchase apps, music and books.

Apple's new M7 motion-

sensing coprocessor probably wasn't on your list of must-haves within a new Smartphone, but it opens an intriguing new way of measuring your physical activity. If you've ever wanted to keep tabs on your exercise but considered fitness bracelets too much of a hassle, the iPhone 5s might eliminate the need for wearable accessories. We still need to see how many app developers actually leverage the chip, but as an encouraging sign, Nike is already in the ring with its new Nike+ Move app.

Beyond that, the M7 coprocessor also introduces new conveniences in everyday use. For example, during navigation, the iPhone 5s will automatically adjust directions when you stop driving and proceed on foot to your destination.

Needless to say, the iPhone 5s is the more re-

Killer concepts from 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

The Audi Nanuk Quattro is designed to move from racetrack, to highway, to dirt road

fined and professional-looking of the two Smartphones, which features an aluminium enclosure that's available in three finishes: gold, silver and space gray. When compared to the iPhone 5c -which offers 16GB or 32GB of internal storage -- the iPhone 5s is the only one of the pair to feature a 64GB option.

The bottom line: The iPhone 5s packs many niceties. If it's within your budget, it's easily the more capable of the two Smartphones.

and yellow -- that complement the vibrant user interface in iOS 7. Naturally, the new enclosures might be more expressive of your personal style, and given the phone's steel-reinforced, polycarbonate construction, it could be a more suitable choice if you're prone to accidents.

Simply put, the iPhone 5 was a world-

class Smartphone, and the iPhone 5c carries on the tradition with the same excellent processor, camera and display. It also offers subtle improvements, such as a new Face Time camera that's said to perform better in low-light situations. That said, if you commonly play music through your phone's built-in speaker, be sure to compare the iPhone 5c to the iPhone 5s before you make a purchasing decision.

Needless to say, the smaller speaker grille on the iPhone 5c suggests that you might find a noticeable difference in audio quality between the two phones.

Whether you feel the more expensive iPhone 5s is worth the additional cost is a very personal decision that's dictated by your needs and budget.

Yes, Apple's new premiere Smartphone promises faster performance and better imaging quality, but if you're just a casual gamer or photographer, the iPhone 5c is certainly a suitable choice.

The bottom line: The iPhone 5c brings the excellent features of the iPhone 5 to a lower price point, along with a number of vibrant enclosures.

The iPhone 5C: A colourful reincarnation of iPhone 5

Think of the iPhone 5c as a fresh, less expensive take on the original iPhone 5. It features many of the same internals as before, and as the biggest differentiator, it's available in five colours -- green, blue, white, red

The exhibition halls at Messe Frankfurt are a fertile hunting ground for lovers of concept cars, as automakers unveil vehicles that give a glimpse of possible future design directions, technologies that might be integrated into forthcoming production models, or pure flights of fancy. This year proved no different...

(GIZMAG)

The Fourjoy is powered by a 55 kW magnetoelectric motor

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september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine 21

Times Art

exhibition celebrates Amerindian artists

By Elfrieda Bissember

B

oth George Simon and his brother Oswald Hussein, born in the Lokono (Arawak) village of Pakuri (St. Cuthbert's Mission) on the Mahaica River, live with a continuing commitment to their Amerindian heritage and communities. Simon, trained in printmaking in London and a leading Guyanese painter since the late 1980's, began workshops at this time in Pakuri to encourage and stimulate creative activity in the plastic arts among all those who were interested in these possibilities.

His brother Oswald emerged as a significant talent during "Tree Root #2" (2013) by George Simon

nating forms, so often a mixture of challenging fantasy yet grounded in and springing from the life and habits of forest fauna, and decorated with elements of its flora, have made the convincing case for their authority to express the growing concerns of the wider Guyanese community, and to symbolize the precious natural heritage of the land and its resources celebrated in their work.

Another constant factor has been the commitment to working with young, potential artists in their own and other Amerindian communities, as well as, through Simon, organizing group projects such as the design and painting of murals (the newly built Guyana National Stadium in 2007, the Umana Yana in 2008, and

Nature in fact forms the base for these artists’ inspiration, but also we are to be reminded, as here, of their inherited lore of stories, myths, legends and spiritual beliefs, which in their details are bound up with and illustrated by the myriad elements and qualities of these manifestations of nature.

Further, by their instinctual and deep knowledge of the natural world, lived with and bound to at close quarters for everyday and longterm survival, physical, material and spiritual, their images spring from this intimate and authoritative familiarity and respect for the life-sustaining eco-systems which so many others are completely unaware of or do not recognize.

The works in this exhibition can therefore remind us of some of the hidden and obvious treasures that lie within the patrimony of the natural world and varied landscapes of Guyana. Nature, indeed, "Shaman" (2013)

by Victor Captain

this period, winning two awards: the First Prize for Sculpture from the major nationthe School of al art comEducation and petition, the Humanities National building, Visual Arts University Exhibition of Guyana in (NVAE), 2010), where an in 1989 and students could 1993; Simon participate in a himself had won useful exercise in the Judges’ Prize "Owl" (1999) by skills training.

Oswald Hussein for Painting at Simon and the NVAE in Hussein's current 1986. co-exhibitor, Victor Captain, Additionally, with anoth- is such an example. A promer promising Pakuri artist, ising painter, he met Simon, Linus Clenkian, Simon and a 1994 London University Hussein showed work at the graduate in archaeology, at National Gallery in 1995 the Bina Hill Institute at in a landmark exhibition, Annai, North Rupununi in ‘Contemporary Amerindian 2009, by which time, howArt’, marking the World ever, Captain had had a seDecade of Indigenous cure interest in art, through Peoples. participation at the age of What has been signifi- ten at a Wild Life Festival cant in this group is their organized by the Iwokrama identification with the ele- Rainforest Reserve, and latments and features of their er through the teaching of hinterland environment young Makushi artist Anil over the last twenty years. Roberts, a Burrowes School A vibrant group show at the of Art and University of Venezuelan Cultural Centre Guyana graduate and a proin 1998, Six Lokono Artists, tégé of Simon's, who taught heralded them as ‘Artists at Captain's school in 2005for the Environment’; and 6. their inventive and fasciWhy ‘Silent Witness’?

through the land and i t s various forms of thriving life, delineates those parts of the earth that we call our homeland. It is witness, and proof, of the richness and the health of this patrimony, and can indicate, by the extensiveness and vitality of its forms, how well we are managing, or sustaining, this valuable life force.

Though silent of words, the elegant, twisting forms of George Simon’s “Tree Root #1” and “Tree Root #2” speak and symbolize conditions of life; his leaping “Bimichi” (Hummingbird) revered in myth as a powerful bird, used as a charm and an embodiment of a god, is familiar yet magical creature with its glowing colour and furiously reverberating wings and body: one of the thousands of miraculous manifestations of the natural world. Simon's “Jaguar” similarly, one of a series of recent paintings, is a dominant creature in Amerindian life and myth, symbolizing strength and protection for hunters, as well as a powerful ally

Exhibiting artists (from left) are George Simon, Oswald Hussein and Victor Captain

of the “Shaman” (medicine man or healer) in his work; interesting comparisons are Captain's “Guardian” and his “Hunter”, who walks with his long blowpipe above his head, slung with receptacles for poison and poison darts, and an oval of entrapping nets, stalked by the gaping-jawed jaguar providing protection and strength.

Myths and beliefs entwined with the natural world abound, as do celebrations in depiction of animal life and village pastimes.

Captain's “Banjo Man”, a Makushi-named tiny river fish, is monumentally depicted by the artist; his “Monkey Brush” is another nick named story about plant and animal life, describing a forest vine whose buds sprout curving tendrils which monkeys pick and scratch themselves with, with splits in the buds or pods also bearing flowers which spin off in the wind. His “Full Moon” shows Makonaima (God) watching over his people; his “Quara”

(the Makushi word for horse) is painted in undulating, curving lines echoed by an aura of similar pattern; the macaws in “Cacique Crown” provide the feathers for this crown. And “Sun God” tells the story of the Chief who could only procreate with his wife in darkness, so sending his men to seek some hours of night from the Sun God, who guarded it in the form of an egg, giving it to them with the warning that any harm of their cargo would lose them control of the night. The egg being dropped and causing twelve hours of darkness every night, the chief’s wife was happy to pick flowers during the day, using their colours to create the animals and birds of the forest.

Finally, Oswald Hussein extracts his striking forms and mysterious shapes from the range of valuable hard, medium and soft woods of Guyana, using the properties and qualities to full effect. “Bash” represents “a

party of birds” seen along the Lethem road where they gather; the imposing “Bush Hunter” uses the hard centre of the rare leopard wood; the wood of the hardy Kaiambe savannah tree is used in several works, and also inspires a work about the birth of nearby horses who shelter under the tree; “Biswa” is another version of the mythical Shape Shifter, while “Cambana” depicts in soft corkwood the vulnerable butterfly in its chrysalis, and in contrast to many of his volumetric forms, “Cotton Dance” is an elegant, abstract play of lines.

We owe a debt of gratitude to the Amerindian artists of Guyana for their celebration and perpetuation of this heritage.

‘Silent Witness’ art exhibition continues until October 12, 2013, at Castellani House. (Cover photo: “Jaguar” (2013) by George Simon. All photos courtesy of Castellani House)

22 Times Sunday Magazine

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september 15, 2013

Times Heritage

G

uyana is a nation that has a colourful history and is home to several cultures. For this reason, the richness and diversity of our past, it is critical to preserve our heritage.

The relevant organisation, The National Trust of Guyana, is a government enterprise whose mandate propels its commitment to the preservation and conservation of historic buildings and sites in Guyana.

Therefore we aim to enlighten the public about various events, aspects, symbols, landmarks and structures which has moulded our rich and diverse heritage.

The month of September is one in which multiple activities are undertaken to celebrate various traditions which have been fostered in the past. As such, while the month of September celebrates Amerindian Heritage, it is also regarded as Education Month. Since

Minister Leslie Ramsammy leads the reading at the ‘Ministry of Agriculture Read for 15 Minutes’ initiative Department of Region Two: ‘Give a Book Day’, Anna Regina Sept, 9, 2013

the academic school year commences in September, the month of September has been allocated Education

month.

While the promotion of education is important throughout the year, this

Scene from Region Seven’s "Drop Everything and Read” day held Sept, 9, 2013 as part of Education month’s celebrations for the theme “Transforming classrooms for the 20th century”

month is specially set aside to heighten awareness when campaigns are undertaken to improve the quality of education, and especially promote an understanding of the importance of a sound educational background in their social development.

They hope to foster a pleasant experience and thereby encourage children to strive for excellence academically.

Additionally, while home schooling is not common in Guyana, it is important for parents to be actively involved in the educational upbringing of their child since the home is considered to be as instrumental, as, or even more than, the structured classroom.

On the month-long agenda to promote education, reading campaigns, a literary walk, debating, essay, and quiz competitions, a parental symposium in keeping with the theme, along with a fair, among other ac-

Preserving our heritage through pictures

tivities, are held.

While it may be felt that monuments or structures alone constitute our heritage, this is not so. Our heritage is made up of both tangible and intangible elements, of which education is a pivotal link in the preservation of our heritage which is otherwise destroyed or damaged due to lack of knowledge or ignorance.

The National Trust of Guyana, which undertakes to promote and safeguard the nation’s heritage, wishes to remind citizens that preservation is a task that requires the cooperation of all Guyanese as our heri-

tage is conserved for the enjoyment of all. But this cannot be achieved without the help of the educational system; since at this point where knowledge is imparted, an appreciation and understanding develops.

We wish to encourage the community to take an active role in ensuring the long term survival of Guyana’s patrimony by exercising care and respect at all times when visiting monuments and heritage sites. (By Bhavana Gossai.

Previously published Sept 2010) (Ministry of Education photos)

Brain Teaser Answer From the list and the note about only whole-dollar amounts, we note that if Mushrooms & Onions are $2 together they must be $1 each. From there it is simple math to figure out the following.

Onions $1 Mushrooms $1 Pepperoni $3 Black Olives $2

SUDOKU

Extra Cheese $4 Broccoli $2 Hot Peppers $3 Pineapple $4

KID SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

Artist C.B.N's rendering of downtown Georgetown, British Guiana. GBTI, formerly Barclay's Bank at left foreground with Fogarty's store opposite

guyanatimesgy.com

september 15, 2013

Times Sunday Magazine 23

Times Travel & Tourism

Adventuring South to Rewa

The Rewa River emanates in southern Guyana and runs north through primary rainforest to meet the white waters of the Rupununi River.

The river runs black, and the lower part of the river is wide with high, white sand beaches. About 60 miles upriver, the river changes and gets narrower with rocky bars interspersed with sandy beaches.

Travel another 55 miles upriver and there is the picturesque Corona Falls. It is a truly majestic crown of water that falls about 20 feet into rocky pools and shiny black rocks with petroglyphs scattered around. A couple of days can be spent at the falls exploring the trails and petroglyphs, wildlife watching, and catching fish in the rapids.

The fishing in the Rewa is as good as it gets. Peacock bass, arawana, swordfish, payara, large catfish and pacu thrive in these waters. Rewa is also known for its healthy populations of arapaima, the largest scaled fresh water fish in the world, which can be observed surfacing in many of the oxbow lakes and ponds.

Due to the remoteness of the Rewa River, wildlife viewing is excellent. Numerous species may be observed: tapir, capybara, brocket deer, peccaries, ocelot, jaguar, and seven of the eight species of Guyana’s monkeys. Giant otters, black and spectacled caiman and giant river turtles patrol the waters and bask on the sandbanks.

As the Rewa River transects primary forest, it is also rich in birds. Scarlet macaws, redbilled toucans, cotingas, parrots, and the Harpy eagle can be found. Along the river banks, tiger herons, bat falcons, great black hawks and kingfishers stalk their prey.

With its rich biodiversity, the Rewa River is a beauty to behold.

Smooth-fronted dwarf caiman relaxing on the river (Photo by Pete Oxford)

Corona falls on Rewa river (David Johnstone)

Guides portaging a boat through rapids on Rewa river (Photo by David Johnstone)

Sandy beach (David Johnstone)

Unnamed waterfalls on Rewa river (Photo by David Johnstone)

24

Times Sunday Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

september 15, 2013

Times Last Laugh

Loyalty Has Almost Gone Extinct

By Melvin Durai

S

everal American companies, including a few dot-com giants, have each laid off thousands of people in recent weeks, people who were once aggressively recruited but soon became as disposable as Pamela Anderson's clothing.

Some of these people worked extremely hard for their employer, so hard that they skipped their close friends' weddings. And now they find themselves asking, "Whatever happened to loyalty?"

Loyalty. It was once something we could count on, like a regular visit from the neighbours. But loyalty has gradually given way to self-interest, just as the neighbours have gradually turned into "that weird family next door."

If loyalty were an object, you'd soon find it on display at a famous museum, right next to the dodo bird. And people would walk by and say, "It seems so beautiful. Too bad it's extinct. Hey, look over there! I think it's Monica Lewinsky's dress."

Yes, loyalty is indeed an endangered concept. Everywhere you look, it seems to be dying. People aren't even loyal to their spouses anymore. Remember when the phrase "Till death do us part" meant something? If you do, you're getting REALLY OLD! Imagine a modern couple: They love each other so much, they don't let a single day go by without uttering those three important words: "Where's the remote?" Even when they're miles apart, they show their love by forwarding e-mail to each other.

But what if something terrible happens to one spouse, such as a disabling accident?

Does the other remain loyal? Only if they're really special. In many cases, the other spouse dashes off faster than Marion Jones.

Our loyalty to friends is no better. Some friendships do last a lifetime, but most last only until the beer runs out.

Many of us are guilty of gossiping about friends. "Did you hear what happened to Jill? She accidentally fed her husband dog food. He was really upset at her and said, 'How come you don't cook this good all the time?'"

And what happens when a friend is moving and needs help lifting furniture? Do we volunteer? No way. We wait until the friend asks, then say, "What date are you moving?

The 25th? Oh, that's too bad; I have to wash my underwear that day. It's been on my calendar for over a year."

And what about loyalty to employers?

Well, they're not loyal to you, so you're not loyal to them. Today, you’re the toast of the company, getting promoted to a plush office on the 49th floor and rubbing shoulders with the CEO's secretary. Tomorrow, you're just a number, one of 5,000 people being shown the door.

"Don't feel bad," the human resources director says. "At least you've earned a lot of stock in our company. If the stock market bounces back, you can trade it all for a nice, comfortable pair of socks."

Even product loyalty – perhaps the least admirable but most enduring form of loyalty – has taken a beating. Say you enjoy drinking Sprite. When you go to the store, it's not on sale, so you buy an imitation brand called Spite. You're saving lots of money, so you ignore the slogan on the label: "Contains more spite than the average rap album."

After just one drink, you can't help hating everybody. And pretty soon, you've got your own record contract. Yes, disloyalty does pay off now and then, but in the long run, it won't taste as sweet as loyalty.

My password

“My memory is gone Mildred,” says one senior to her friend. “So I changed my password to “Incorrect.” That way, when I log in with the wrong password, the computer will tell me… “Your password is incorrect.”

Talented tools

As a professional photographer, Judy takes a lot of pride in her pictures.

Wherever she goes, she brings her pictures with her, to show off her work.

“Wow”, said her host Sandra, “these are really nice pictures. You must have a great camera.”

Fuming mad at the implication that her whole talent came from her camera, Judy waited until the end of the meal and then thanked her host, “Thank you the meal was delicious,” and then as if an afterthought added, “You must have great pots.”

Great Service

Sam heard all about the great service in the “Sleep Fine Hotel”, so after dropping his stuff in his room, he excitedly headed down to the hotel lounge. He was only there for a few minutes when a beautifully dressed waiter came over to him.

“Would you like something to drink?” she asked.

Sam took in a deep breath, looked around at the beautiful lobby and asked “What are my choices?”

The woman’s gave Sam a strange look, and responded in an extra loud and slow voice, “Yeees or noooo.”

Vegan’s delight

The leader of the vegetarian society just couldn’t control himself anymore. He just needed to try some pork, just to see what it tasted like. So one day he told his members he was going on a vacation. He went out of town, and headed to the nearest restaurant.

After sitting down, he ordered a roasted pig, and impatiently waited for his delicacy. After just a few minutes, he heard someone call his name, and to his great chagrin he saw one of his fellow members walking towards him.

Just at that same moment, the waiter walked over, with a huge platter, holding a full roasted pig with an apple in its mouth.

“Isn’t that something,” says the leader after only a moment’s pause, “all I do is order an apple, and look what it comes with!”

a middle age crisis.

I didn’t notice my 6 year old next to me, until he piped up “Well, parts of her do.”

Better Career

I was a little surprised when my son suddenly announced one day after church, “I am thinking of being a minister when I grow up.”

“Why is that?” I asked.

“Well, I figure I have to go to church on Sundays anyway, and I think it’ll be more fun to stand and yell than to just sit and listen.”

The Raise speech

Sam walks into his boss’s office. “Sir, I’ll be straight with you, I know the economy isn’t great, but I have like three companies after me, and I would like to respectfully ask for a raise.”

After a few minutes of haggling the boss finally agrees to a 5 percent raise, and Sam happily gets up to leave.

“By the way,” asks the boss as Sam is getting up, “which three companies are after you?”

“The electric company, water company and phone company,” Sam replied.

The Happiest Day to Remember

Harry was finally a groom, and was very excited about his upcoming marriage.

He was on his way out of the office when his boss came over to him with an outstretched hand, “Congratulations Harry, I just wanted to tell you I’ve been married for twenty two years, and I am sure that you will always remember this day with the fondest of memories, as the happiest day of your life.”

“But sir”, said Harry, a little bit confused, “I’m not getting married until tomorrow!”

“Yeah, I know”, said his boss

The Navy’s Seal

I was eagerly drinking in the attention in my grandson’s second grade class telling them what it was like to be a Navy Seal. My bubble was soon burst when I asked if there are any questions.

“So” questioned one girl, “can you balance a ball on your nose?”

Tact needed

Weird chair, or just plain creepy?

“You don’t look old at all,” I assured my 40 year old friend, who was going through

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