Sunday magazine 5 february 2017

Sunday February 5, 2017

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Sailing down the Essequibo Rapids, remote, rustic living and roaring waterfalls; rugged Essequibo River has it all

Page 3 Anita Rampersaud

Inspiring women to find their calling Page 5

Calendar of Sonia Upper A Treaty Noel Events 2017 Demerara Twenty on Rights River many years of years ago style Black History Month

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2 Sunday Times Magazine

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Feature

Black History Month

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tween what is now Guinea and Mali, the resplendent Keita assembled a group of wise men, the chiefs of the various clans. These included Sumanworo Kanté, Emperor of Sosso, whom he had just defeated at the battle of Krina.

After the Charter’s declaration, it was passed down through griots or bards, the famed storytellers of the region, and keepers of the culture. This is a family affair, and stories and other items are passed down still today from father to son.

The spoken document,

emembering the achievements of our African ancestors and their journey to emancipation from slavery gives us a sense of identity and helps us to appreciate our roots. This is the aim of celebrations that would be held throughout the month of February, designated Black History Month worldwide.

The Mali Empire and the Mande Charter

Most social studies and history programs teach little about the kingdoms of Africa. Not much is said about the great kingdoms of sub-Saharan Africa such as the Kingdom of Kush, the Kingdom of Axum, the Land of Punt, the Mali Empire, the Songhai Empire, and the mysterious Zimbabwe Kingdom.

This week, we take a look into the Mali Empire and the founding of the Mande Charter. any know the Magna Carta, which is regarded as the first document to encapsulate any sort of human rights. It is a charter agreed to by King John of England on June 15, 1215. It is one of the most important documents in history as it established the principle that everyone is subject to the law, even the king, and guaran-

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date. Historians as near as they can piece together have put it at 1236. Amselle contends that the Mande Charter actually predates the Magna Carta, adding that that most scholars familiar with the subject agree that Mande Charter is either contemporary to or predates the English document.

Black History Month was started by Harvardtrained historian Carter G. Woodson, who also founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH). In 1925, Woodson

ing materials to instruct their pupils as well as scholars and philanthropists stepping forward to endorse the effort.

Carter G. Woodson first coined Negro History Week in 1925 and it was introduced as a full month by President Gerald R. Ford in 1976. Upon Woodson's death in 1950, it continued to grow into a central part of African American life and substantial progress had been made in bringing more Americans to appreciate the celebration.

At mid–century, mayors

A painting of King Sundiata Keita

tees the rights of individuals, the right to justice and the right to a fair trial.

However, according to French anthropologist and ethnographer Jean-Loup Amselle, who has studied and written about African society, culture and art, particularly how outside influences are adopted by cultures, the "Kurukan Fuga Charter" also known as the "Mande Charter", is said to predate the Magna Carta.

The Mande Charter was

born at the founding of the Mali Empire. Sometime in the 1200s, a great warrior named Sundiata Keita pronounced it. Though Disney takes credit for the moniker, Keita was the original “Lion King.” After calling for a rebellion, he raised an army and squashed his sovereign’s forces, consolidating the empire, and eliminating the state of Old Ghana.

At the site of Kurukan Fuga, meaning “clearing on a hard rock,” situated beA Catalan Atlas showing the Western Sahara. Mansa Musa is seen seated holding a gold coin. Attributed to Abraham Cresques, Wikimedia Commons

which has also been called a “Constitution”, contains a preamble and seven chapters. It speaks on social peace, the sanctity of human life, women’s rights, the right to an education, food security, and even to self-expression. The charter gave equal rights to citizens including women and slaves. The aim was to provide peace and social stability. It advocated diversity and spoke of abolishing slavery, in this case the razzia or raid.

Since the Mande Charter was derived from an oral tradition, it isn’t easy to

conceived and announced Negro History Week. The event was first celebrated during a week in February 1926 that encompassed the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

Woodson and others like him believed that truth could not be denied and that reason would prevail over prejudice. The goal of started Black History Month was to help raise awareness of African American's contributions to civilization.

This paved the way opening the door to many events, clubs and teachers demand-

of cities nationwide issued proclamations noting Negro History Week. The Black Awakening of the 1960s dramatically expanded the consciousness of African Americans about the importance of black history, and the civil rights movement focused Americans of all colour on the subject of the contributions of African Americans to history and culture.

Throughout this month, Sunday Times Magazine will feature notable achievements by our African ancestors and present-day individuals.

Kouroukan Fouga or Kurukan Fuga was the constitution of the Mali Empire

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

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Times Feature

Rapids, remote, rustic living and roaring waterfalls; rugged Essequibo River has it all

House partially hidden by trees along the River

Scenic view of the River

By Kendra Seignoret

T

he Essequibo River is the longest river in Guyana and is the third longest in the world.

The Essequibo essentially runs from the very south of Guyana near the BrazilGuyana-Venezuela border and traipses its way north for 1,010 km to the Atlantic

Ocean. There are many tributaries that are major rivers themselves, including the Potaro River which has Kaieteur Falls.

The Essequibo and its tributaries are a brown colour primarily because of vegetation. Leaves can dye the colour of water so that it looks like tea. So no, it isn’t that the water is dirty.

As much as I had dreams (and still do) about visiting a remote traditional society, sadly that wasn’t for this particular trip. My visit to the Essequibo River was rather tame. But at the same time, who doesn’t love a meandering boat trip? The part of the river I saw was from a small rustic frontier town called Parika to an

even more rustic frontier town called Bartica. In between those two places, you can get a pretty good feel for what life on the river is like excluding the most remote communities, of course. If it weren’t for spiders the size of my face, I’d be tempted to live in a place like this.

A trip down the 20km wide Essequibo includes seeing many little islands, including Fort Island (an island with a fort); bathing under a waterfall or two such as Marshall Falls; and bouncing along some rapids on the Mazaruni River (a tributary of the Essequibo).

One of the highlights of a trip down the Essequibo is a hike through the rainforest to Marshall Falls. Once my little group reached the Falls, those of us brave (or insane) enough jumped into the dark waters to stand

under a short but powerful waterfall. One needs to be practically the size of the “Terminator” in order not to be beaten down by rushing water! Energizing is the key word of the experience.

If anyone tries to tell you that you’ll hear monkeys and parrots while out there – not happening: the waterfall is too loud as are the people you’re with! Animals would be long gone. Though you may get lucky and see some from the boat. I almost combusted on the spot when I saw a toucan and a red howler monkey with a baby!

(Disclaimer: I grew up playing a game called Amazon Trail so this boat trip was basically that childhood memory coming to life).

For me, it was a pretty amazing feeling to be out on this huge river traversing the rainforest, imagining

jungle rural life, and wondering what would happen if I were to dangle my fingers in the water.

Kendra Seignoret considers herself to be a cubicle escape artist: she tries to find ways to keep her job (which is in a cubicle) while also trying to escape it as often as possible. When she travels, she's generally that solo female you see wandering with a camera firmly clutched to her face as she traipses around while narrowly avoiding being hit by some form of local transportation. Kendra is originally from Trinidad and Tobago, but currently lives in Canada. You can find more of her adventures on her blog Rusty Travel Trunk (www.rustytraveltrunk.com) or on Instagram @rustytraveltrunk (Cover photo: Marshall Falls)

More houses along the River bank Howler monkeys perched in trees along the River

One of the many islands on the Essequibo River

Mining dredge on the River

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Sunday Times Magazine

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Feature

Historical view of Meadow Bank

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eadow Bank, East Bank Demerara, located some two miles south of Georgetown, has undergone a significant transformation from the village it was some 175 years ago. Around that time, it was mostly populated by the Portuguese and became the centre of the Catholic Church in Guyana.

With the abolition of slavery in 1834, many of the

began arriving as indentured immigrants in 1835.

By 1882, more than 30,000 Portuguese had immigrated to the-then British colony.

Many settled at Meadow Bank. As a result, Meadow Bank became the centre of the Catholic Church.

Far away from home, the Portuguese indentured immigrants, inspired by the religious worship and practices on their former island of

the Mount, the patroness of Madeira.

It was a devout place of worship for the Portuguese to fulfil their spiritual and religious heritage and zeal.

Another aim was to encourage and inspire other Portuguese immigrants to settle at Meadow Bank. Its activities featured some of the customs and ceremonies of the churches they attended in Madeira.

Our Lady of the Mount church located in Meadow Bank

View of entrance into Meadow Bank from the East Bank public road

African slaves who worked on sugar estates eagerly left the inhuman and barbaric conditions on the estates to seek their fortune and future elsewhere.

Portuguese from Madeira

Madeira, set about recreating them at Meadow Bank.

Fr Benedict Schembri, who resided in Meadow Bank, built a church in December 1876. The patroness chosen was Our Lady of

Ritual masses were held at the Church and its activities included jumble sales, bazaars and religious feasts or “festas”.

Among the feasts observed and celebrated by

the church at Meadow Bank were the Feast of St John the Baptist; the Feast of St Peter; and the Feast of the Holy Ghost.

For the Feast of St Peter, a Boat of St Peter was built and was lifted from the home of the promoter of the Feast by six persons along a processional path to the church. They walked to music and cheers from crowds who lined the roads.

Near the Church was a bandstand and a band played from it. Bread was distributed at the church.

The biggest ritual, however, according to reports, was the Feast of the Holy Ghost. The event began on Easter Sunday. Two Holy

Ghost Flags, red in colour with a white dove in the middle, were taken by four men who were the promoters.

Two girls were in the group and they sang. In the group also was a man who played the violin. The group solicited money to feed the poor. A Hymn to the Holy Ghost was sung and collections and donations were placed in a Silver Crown with a dove on top of it.

During the feast itself, beggars were fed at the school in the village. Three altars were placed in the school – one covered with silver, one on which bread was placed and the other was covered with a flag.

Each beggar was given an

outfit of clothes, a pair of shoes, a basket filled with food and a towel.

On occasions, the Feasts ended in bacchanalian revelry, so much so that the Bishop decided to stop the Feasts.

Passion Sunday, was, however, still observed.

Members of the Catholic Guild in Georgetown walked in a procession from Georgetown to Meadow Bank carrying a Statue of Our Lady of Sorrows and one of Jesus Christ with the cross on His shoulder.

Meadow Bank today is not the same as it was many, many years ago. (Text

by Peter Halder, https://peterhalder. wordpress.com)

Upper Demerara River many years ago

By Peter Halder

E

conomic activities in the Upper Demerara River were mainly timber grants. The first grant, I believe, was at Kumaparo, about 60 miles south of Mallali, but below Great Falls. The grant was owned and operated

by Willems Timber and Trading Company. Jack Willems was the owner of the company at that time. His manager in Georgetown was a Mr. McIntyre who flew to the site regularly on an Art Williams seaplane.

Another timber grant pioneer was Harry Lorrimer. His grant was at Kumaro, about 18 miles south of Mallali. He travelled by speedboat and used tugs to transport his logs to Georgetown. He was among the first to use trucks to haul timber from the forest to the bank of the river for shipping.

Mr. McDoom owned and operated a grant at Mallali Mission. And Mr. A.P. Fiedtkou also owned and operated a grant at Karakuya, above Mallali. Arthur Seon, Mr. Biddings and a Mr. Couchman also had wood grants at a place called Karakubi.

In those days, the main species of wood extracted from the forests were greenheart, purpleheart and kabakalli.

Some amount of alluvial gold mining was also done.

Beyond Great Falls, Sigmund Croft, whose family lived at

An 1800s home located Upper Demerara

Kara Kara Creek opposite Section C, Christianburg, did gold mining at Kanaimatu. There was no diamond mining as far as I was told.

The indigenous people lived along both banks of the river, mainly as individual families in thatched troolie palm huts. They were from different nations: Wapishiana, Macushi, Arawak and Carib.

There was a settlement above Great Falls. Great Falls is about 80 miles south of Mallali. To go beyond the settlement, you had to take your boat, canoe from the river and walk along a portage around the Falls, to where the river continued. The source of the Demerara River is Canister Falls, near the Brazil border.

When the tide was at its highest during the rainy season, fishes swam from down to upriver to spawn, but could not go beyond Great Falls. The indigenous people who lived beyond the Falls harvested them and dried or smoked them so they can be stored. Among the fishes were laulau, hymara, tiger fish, tibicuri and dara.

The indigenous settlement was at Mabura, about four miles below Great Falls. It was known as Mabura Mission.

They held an annual festival which was called “bimiti”. It featured feasting, music and dancing. There was also another custom called Mashramani.

In Mabura, the men would cut down trees, clear land and build huts. The women would cultivate farms and do all the cooking and housekeeping. Men also did hunting and fishing.

A main crop was bitter cassava. It was used to make cassava bread. There were two kinds: the round flat kind that is well known and also one that was very thick called “aresuca”. The crop was also used for making casareep and two popular drink called piwari and cassiri. Of course casareep was used for making pepperpot in a huge iron pot. There were two kinds of pepperpot: one made with meat (deer, labba, acouri, wild cow (tapir) or wild hog) and the other was with thick, cleaned and filleted fish, especially laulau and very large hymara. Hot whole peppers were also an ingredient. Other potables included warrup, made from sugar cane juice. The juice was squeezed into large earthen jars, left in the sun to ferment with

Upper Demerara River in 1935 (Photo by Robert S. Platt)

the help of a little yeast, and when ready, was placed in a nearby creek to chill. The most popular drink was “sleepy tonic” made with sugar, yeast and sometimes potato and sweet potato added.

Three superior forest experts in those days were indigenous people who lived below Great Falls. They knew the forests in the Upper Demerara River like the back of their hands, did not need any maps, and were never lost. The three were Wilford Wanama, Richard Williams and Sabia Daniels. They were very good, for example, at locating greenheart sub-forests. They were able to smell from a distance the peculiar odour of greenheart leaves or know from the soil where greenheart or other commercial trees grew.

Animals that inhabited the forests in the Upper Demerara River included wild cow (tapir), wild hog, deer (a small, striped variety called wibishiri and a large brown variety), labba, acouri (which thrived on eating the corio palm nuts when they fell to the ground), puma, jaguar (including the black jaguar) and the ewalla tiger. Snakes included the boa constrictor or camoudi, labaria, cunacura, lanara or bushmaster, rattlesnake.

There was a water gauge above the Falls that was set up by the Geological Survey Department in Georgetown.

It was used to measure the depth of the water in the river.

Life in Upper Demerara River was simple, but always exciting.

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Times Women

Anita Rampersaud

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nita Ramprasad has overcome challenges to be the best she could possibly be. A corporate executive, Distinguished Toastmaster, fitness enthusiast and life coach, Anita aims to inspire others, especially women.

Anita is FCCA (Fellow of the Associated of Chartered Certified Accountants) of London, England certified and is a Senior Corporate Executive, holding the portfolio of Finance, Administration and Human Resources Manager for the MACORP Group of Companies.

Notably, Anita is a Distinguished Toastmaster, which means she had to compete in all of the four levels each of the Communication and Leadership disciplines.

Additionally, within the Caribbean Toastmasters community, she currently holds the post of a Division Director, with the responsibility of ensuring success of all Toastmasters Clubs and members in Guyana, Trinidad and Grenada.

“It’s been said those who talk do so just because they have something to say, but those who speak have something to say that others actually want to hear.

The true essence of effective communication can be found in that simple line and also the reason I chose

Anita Ramprasad

to become a Toastmaster.

I wanted to master the art of speaking and to become a more effective communicator and leader,” she stated in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

She added that as a Toastmaster for about seven years, she has grown “exponentially” in areas of courage and self-confidence, providing feedback, responding to impromptu situations and handling stress. It has also allowed

A life dedicated to being fit and inspiring others to do so

her to represent her country at the Regional Public Speaking Contests.

“I have provided training and given presentations nationally, regionally and internationally. I have also had the honour and privilege of being asked by The Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana to be the official host of the very popular Guyana Restaurant Week food and restaurant reviews. So in essence, Toastmasters has transformed my life outside of my comfort zones and has challenged me to step out of the box I had once confined myself in,” she pointed out.

Apart from being a Toastmaster, Anita enjoys being fit and even encourages others to lead such a path. For Anita, fitness is a “way of life, a choice to live a healthy life and is a balance of smart eating and regular exercise”. She believes “when you look good, you feel good about yourself, when you feel good you are much more productive”.

The fitness enthusiast mentioned that a fit lifestyle adds to our longevity and can slow down the signs of aging.

“I think even when I am 80, I would probably still be exercising,” she quipped.

Now, Anita is focused on becoming a life coach. She believes this is her true calling and many people she has coached informally have confirmed this.

“I believe everyone has a purpose and value. I want to become a life coach to help people realise their true po-

tential, their real worth, their value and most importantly their purpose, passion and calling in life. I love to make time for people to understand their challenges and to help them overcome them,” she expressed.

Having endured “many levels of hell”, Anita enjoys “a state of peace” and is “totally in love” with the person she is today.

“I got through my challenges by prayer and having unshakable faith in God. I believe everything in life is temporary, only here for a season and a reason. What gets me through my toughest days is by remembering my current situation is not my final destination, because I believe I was created for great things and that my destiny is not at risk of being stolen by anyone. I have a little saying I love to use when times seem challenging to remind myself that in the end everything will turn out fine, ‘You can’t have rainbows without a little rain and you can’t have joy without a little pain’,” she declared.

Motivated by a passion to help women of all ages, Anita shares eight strategies she has developed, which have also worked for her personally. These are acceptance, know who you are, balance, self-awareness, switch it up, choose your battles, invest in yourself, and let yourself off the hook.

She explains: “Acceptance is knowing that all I am is human, which means I am not perfect and I don’t have to be, I have flaws but I am not flawed, I have experienced failure but I am not a failure, I have made mistakes but these do not define me rather they empower me to constantly improve the quality my life.

“Know who you are: I know who I am but more importantly I know who I am not. I celebrate my strengths and I am aware of my areas of improvement. This makes the impact of others opinions powerless against me because once you accept your flaws; no one can use them against you. This way nothing comes as criticism because the rumours and lies amuse me and the truth doesn’t shock me because I already know myself.

“Balance: I work hard and play equally hard. I allocate enough time for work, family and friends, exercise, prayer, sleep, reading, social and recreational

actives. Life is about balance and no single activity should ever consume too much of our time after all a balanced life is a happy life.

“Self-awareness: I never discredit my gut instinct nor do I allow emotions to rule me. Self-awareness, to me, is the perfect alignment of intellect (ruled by our head/brain), emotion (ruled by our heart) and intuition (ruled by our gut). In any situation I am confronted with I take a mental pause to align these 3 areas and I contemplate…How does this affect me, how does it

like something and it can be changed then I change it, if it can’t be changed then I change the way I perceive it.

I fight the battles I can win and when it comes to people I know that sometimes being at peace is more important than being right.

“Invest in yourself: Life can take many things from you but the one thing that cannot be stolen is knowledge. I try to read one book per month. This month’s read is ‘Emotional Intelligence’ by Scott Mercer. When you increase your knowledge you imme-

Speaking at a past Toastmasters' event

make me feel and how do I want to handle it? This allows me to be in control of my thoughts, feelings and my energy and this is the truest form of empowerment of self.

“Switch it up: I have banished limits and negativity from my life by ‘switching it up’. I turned my am I’s, can I’s, should I’s, will I’s into I am, I can, I shall, I will. My motto, ‘The question isn’t who is going to let me rather it’s who is going to stop me’.

“Choose your battles: Let’s face it not everything in life can be conquered some things we have to learn to accept. Knowing this I do not waste time and energy complaining. If I don’t

diately increase your worth and remove your own limits.

“Let yourself off the hook: Far too often we are harsh and cruel with ourselves. I tell myself, I don’t always have to be happy, or in a good mood, or have it all figured out, or always look good oh no – I am allowed to have bad days, I am allowed to be hurt and cry, I am allowed to be scared, worried, anxious and unsure, every once in a while. Most importantly I am not afraid to ask for help when I know I need it as I see this as a sign of strength. To me it’s okay to get bent out of shape once in a while after all only when you are stretched can you grow.”

6 Sunday Times Magazine

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Book World The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

By Petamber Persaud

The Centennial End to Indentureship Part III T

he publication of “Coolie Odyssey”

by David Dabydeen (1988) four years after “Slave Song” also by David Dabydeen (1984) credits a natural chronology of events in Guyanese history – enslaved people from Africa were brought to Guyana long before Indian Indentured labourers arrived here from India under a scheme termed ‘Indentureship’.

Indentureship started in 1838 after the emancipation of enslaved people and ended in 1917. “Coolie Odyssey” published four years after “Slave Song”, in a way, it could be said, that the latter came out of the former mainly because together both books tell the odyssey of Guyanese from their respective ancestral homes to the diaspora, many carving a niche for themselves and making their ancestors and country proud of their achievements.

At this point, the preface of the book written by the author is worthy of note: “The first poem start-

David Dabydeen

ed on a train journey from Edinburgh to Birmingham, with further pieces written in trains from Coventry to London and planes from London over the Atlantic to the Caribbean. Lines came slowly, in fragments. The poems offer glimpses into an odyssey, not a chronicle of threaded events.

The journey is from India to Guyana to England, and

it is as much a journey of words as deeds” [my italics].

Dabydeen is a man of words (three collections of poetry, six novels and numerous academic books, authored/edited/coedited). He is also a man of action seen through his remarkable rise to fame and fortune – an inspiring odyssey.

Born in Guyana of lowly station, he able to move ‘from Care to Cambridge’ and has since conquered many worlds for which he was given recognition - in his country of birth, he won the Guyana Prize for Literature on three occasions and crowned with an ambassadorial title; the Caribbean community honoured him with the Anthony Sabga Caribbean Award for Excellence for Arts and Letters; the Commonwealth Community awarded him the Commonwealth Poetry Prize for ‘Slave Song’.

In his adopted home he is an acknowledged and much sought after academic, and his ancestral home awarded him the Raja Rao Literary Prize. Dabydeen moves frequently among his three homes - ancestral, place birth and adopted home, launching his forage from his adopted home.

The title poem, “Coolie Odyssey”, sets the trend, pattern and rhythm of the book; from the opening lines we are taken from England to Guyana.

Now that peasantry is in vogue, Poetry bubbles from peat bogs…

It should be time to hymn your own wreck, Your house the source of ancient song Where Dry coconut shells cackling in the fireside Smoking up our children’s eyes and lungs Plantains spitting oil from a clay pot Thick sugary black tea gulped down The title poem “Coolie Odyssey” is not static, for the writer takes the reader on a constant forage from birth place to adopted home to ancestral home in a style pregnant with contrasts and flashbacks, hammering home the message – “[y]ou were always back home, forever” as if trying to but not really escaping the “winter of England’s scorn”, because it causes us to “huddle together memories”, knowing the ancestors lie in a “library of graves...lie like texts/Waiting to be written by the children”.

Such children are important to each generation and we ought to cherish their work/legacy from which we gain knowledge and insight, and on which we could develop and build.

Contrast with an accompanying shift in language from Standard English to Guyanese Creole is effectively employed to unfold the odyssey.

The chronology of the

Cover “Coolie Odyssey” (Hansib Publications)

story reads something like this: after emancipation, the enslaved people moved away from plantation life eliciting a need for another source of cheap labour to save sugar from ruination.

Through the Gladstone Experiment, Indians were brought to Guyana.

All captured in two lines from the poem: The odyssey was plank between river and land, Mere yards but months of plotting The next movement was the overtures among the whites, blacks and browns leading to many altercations, racial animosity and (happy moments which are rarely celebrated in these types of narratives). All of which caused Old Dabydeen to call upon “Lord Krishna…”and “prayed that the white man would honour/The end-ofseason bonus to Poonai”, his only son.

Through all this Old Dabydeen dreams of India.

Drinking rum to drown his sorrows, he dies instead, dreaming of reincarnation but was headed for the rapture as he was “buried to the singing of Scottish Presbyterian hymns/And a hell-fire sermon from a ...catechist/By Poonai, lately baptised, like half the village” – a whittling away at their ancestral culture and values which was difficult to baulk at since an easy passage to education and employment depend-

ed on one embracing the Christian faith.

In England, the struggle for a good life continues. Education was seen as a saviour, a way out, a continuation and consummation of the vision of the parents who “hustle to save one-one slow penny” to send their children to far away school, “to England university”.

In England your baggage wouldn’t let you be as you dream of home and cricket and El Dorado and Missie “spread out on veranda/Flowing like milkfroth in her loose white frock” and your impotence.

Sometimes you wonder what Miranda and Kaliban were doing in Guyana and how Rohan Kanhai was looked up to as a saviour of Indians.

The title poem “Coolie Odyssey” is supported solidly by other pieces that filled in the blanks, fleshing out the story. The book, “Coolie Odyssey” is a remarkable piece of literature in its offerings to future generations.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 2260065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com What’s happening: Under production: A compilation of biographies of Indo-Guyanese writers and an anthology of IndoCaribbean poetry.

For further information, please use the above contacts.

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Times Heritage

O

ne of the earliest records we have of Kingston which is now Ward No. 1 in Georgetown appears in Dr Pickard’s “Letters” where he describes – “An English village contiguous to fort and camp with neat good houses, painted white on brick foundations and covered with wallaba shingles.” This letter was dated April 1796.

By 1848, the little village of Kingston had grown considerably. In 1830, the temporary wooden structure which had served as a

lighthousefrom 1817 was replaced by the present lighthouse.

A few years later… the population of Kingston began to be much concerned over the encroachment of the sea, and an earth dam was commenced along the shore. This however, proved no barrier to the waters which, in 1855, flooded the whole of Kingston in places to a depth of four feet.

That year, the building of the Sea Wall commenced in earnest…The work continued for many years, and in It is believed that this cannon was issued to the colony of British Guiana in 1916 to be used for coastal defence during the First World War (National Trust)

Lighthouse and Signalling Station (1913) Kingston, British Guiana

1882 was completed as far as Kitty…

During the last twentyfive years, much of the old Kingston has disappeared and many changes have been caused by the Second World War. In 1924, what was left of Fort William Frederick was dismantled in order that the Petroleum Bond be erected on the same site. Up to 1940, an imposing line of twentytwo cannons still provided an excuse for the name of “Fort”, and at the same time they were used as playthings by children. But the war came along and twenty-one of them were sold to a Canadian munition firm.

One gun remains pointing out to the river. This is the “8 ‘o’ clock gun” which Schomburg mentions in his writings of more than one hundred years ago: “Just as the firing of cannon had signalled the onset of night, a similar one notified the breaking of day; the Reveille sounded through the yet silent city streets

Trading expedition in British Guiana circa 1930

Women returning from market pose for a photo on New Garden Street, Georgetown, in 1922

and recalled to life fresh energies and renewed activities.”

This firing of a gun at 5am and 8pm – a reminder of slave days – was discontinued in 1939 through the shortage of gunpowder. (The firing of the gun at 5am had stopped before that time.)

Formerly the offices of the Howard Humphreys Corporation, the bath hut east of the Bond was taken over by the Town Council for this purpose in the nineteen twenties or thirties.

The former Immigration Depot near the Sea Wall was built in 1881, and the passer-by could always see in the compound, crowds of East Indians who were staying there prior to their return to India. During the War the building was taken over for military purposes. The bottom flat is at present used as the office of the District Commissioner, Georgetown.

Other points of interest on the sea wall are the Bandstand, elected by public subscription in 1903 as a memorial of Her Late Majesty Queen Victoria, and the Koh-I-Noor Shelter nearby, which is the outcome of a memorial paper of the Diamond Jubilee edited

by Miss Webber.

An imposing memorial of the last war is a concrete pillar near the Round House on which used to be a small look-out shelter, complete with anti-aircraft gun. After the war the pillar was left standing and the following inscription put on it.

The Royal Regiment Artillery B.G. Coast Battery World War 1939 -1945 Fifty years ago it was not

possible to get into Cowan Street from Fort Street. The road was blocked by an old Dutch well, which has since been filled in, and the road built over. Perhaps it was this well which gave the name Spring Alley to our Fort Street.

A building which has changed hands many times is the present Education Department, which formerly housed the Public Works Department Head Office.

The building has been used as a military barracks, and as a dwelling house.

The north east corner of this same site, now a prom-

ising kitchen garden, was formerly the site of Kingston Anglican School – dismantled many years ago.

During the war, the vacant piece of land near the Lighthouse was cleared of its large trees for the erection of the United States Organisation Headquarters, which caused an unusual amount of traffic in the district, especially on party nights. The building has since been taken over by the government for use as the Public Works Department Head Office.

A landmark in Kingston is the huge molasses tank in Water Street which was erected by the Pure Cane Molasses Company in 1931.

Next door is the Electric Company Power House, erected in 1937.

Another interesting building is the St Joseph Mercy Hospital, formerly the private nursing home known as “Colonna House”, and before that a dwelling house famous for its 99 windows.

Kingston, the “pretty little village” of 1796 is now a compact, built-in residential ward of the city of Georgetown. It has shared the improvements enjoyed by the rest of the city – better roads, tramcars while they lasted, first gas now electricity. But a view of the city from the lighthouse today would not be very different from that described by Schomburg in 1840; and the houses in Kingston are still “neat good houses, painted white” as described by Dr. Pickard.

(Source: Sketch for a History: Glimpses of Kingston by Joy W. Small.

Vol. 2 Kyk-Over-Al, June 1948.)

Bandstand, Sea Wall,Georgetown, British Guiana (no date)

8 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Travel & Tourism

February February 13 - Folk Concert (date to be announced). For more info, call Mash Secretariat, Middle Street, on 592-226-4764.

February 14 - Masquerade Competition, Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara.

February 19 - Mashramani CalypsoFinal (adult). For more info, call Mash Secretariat,Middle Street, on 592-226-4764.

February 23 - Republic Day (National

April April 1-2 - Destination Wedding and General Events Workshop, RAMADA Georgetown Princess, Providence.

April 7-9 - Easter Seawall Art Festival, Seawall Tarmac, Kingston, Georgetown.

April 7 - ODI Cricket West Indies VS Pakistan, Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

April 9 - ODI CricketWest Indies VS Pakistan, Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

April 11 - ODI Cricket West Indies VS Pakistan, Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

April9-16 - Pakaraima Mountain Safari.

April 14 - Good Friday (National Holiday).

April14-16 - Region Five Expo & Trade Fair, Bath Community Centre.

April 15-17 - Bartica Easter Regatta.

April15 - Car & Bike Show, Lake Mainstay Resort, Essequibo Coast.

April 15-17 - Lethem Rodeo Triple R Arena, Lethem, Rupununi. Contact Rupununi Chamber of Commerce on 592-772-2129.

April 17 - Easter Monday (National Holiday).

April 28 – May 7 - Restaurant Week.

Contact Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on 592-225-0807.

July July 1-3 - “Arts & Craft Integration” Craft Show & Live Entertainment, Seawall Tarmac, Kingston, Georgetown.

July 3 - CARICOM Day (National Holiday).

July 29-30 - Moruca Weekend & Expo, Moruca, Region One. July (date to be announced) - Berbice Expo & Trade Fair, Albion Sports Ground, Albion, Corentyne.

October October 19 – Diwali (National Holiday).

October 20-21 - “Exhibition of Lights”arts show at Umana Yana, Kingston, Georgetown.

October 22 - Horse racing, Kennard Memorial Turf Club, Bush Lot, Corentyne, Berbice.

October 28-29 - GTM Fitness & Expo, Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

October(dates to be announced) - GuyExpo Trade Exposition at the National Exhibition Centre, Sophia, Georgetown; and the Rockstone Fish Festival, Rockstone Community, Region Ten.

March

Holiday). Mash Float Parade at Stabroek Market Square to Durban Park, Georgetown.

For more info, call Mash Secretariat, Middle Street, on 592-226-4764.

February 24 - Art in the Park, National Park, Georgetown.

February 24-26 - Moraikabai Safari, Georgetown to Morakabai. Contact Rainforest Tours on 592-231-5661

May May 1 - Labour Day (National Holiday).

May 1-6 - “The Arrival” Arts Show, Umana Yana, Kingston,Georgetown.

May (to be announced) - Miss Renaissance Pageant, National Cultural Centre, Georgetown.

Contact Negla Brandis on 592-625-2886.

May 26 – Independence Day (National Holiday).

June June (date to be announced) - “Garden Wedding Gift Festival” Craft Show, Botanical Gardens, Georgetown.

August August 1 - Emancipation Day (National Holiday).

Emancipation Day Festival, National Park, Georgetown. Contact the African Cultural Development Association on 592-225-8120.

August 5-6 - “Emancipation Pepperpot” Craft Show, Main Street Avenue, Georgetown.

August (dates to be announced) – Jamzone’s week of activities at HJ Water World, Providence.

August - Bartica Regatta.

August 13 – 17th Lake Mainstay Regatta, Lake Mainstay, Mainstay Village, Essequibo.

March 4 - Rupununi Music & Arts Festival - “The Georgetown Connections” at Thirst Park (Banks DIH).

March 10-11 - Phagwah Festival in the Gardens, Promenade Gardens, Middle Street,Georgetown.

March 12 - Phagwah(National Holiday). Phagwah Festival at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

March - PhagwahMela&Folk Dance Concert, Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, E.C.D. Holi Utsav at Everest Cricket Ground, Carifesta Avenue,Georgetown. Contact Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha on 592-227-6181.

March 13 - Rose Hall Martyrs’ Day (countrywide observance).

March 19 - Horse racing at Kennard Memorial Turf Club,Corentyne,Berbice.

March 24-26 - Linden Expo & Trade Fair at the Egbert Benjamin Exhibition & Conference Centre, Linden.

March 24-26 - Wedding Expo at the Roraima Duke Lodge,Georgetown.

March 25 - Clash of the Titans, Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

March 25 – Concert, Protected Areas Commission,Georgetown.

March (month of) - Horse racing, Port Mourant Turf Club,Port Mourant, Corentyne,Berbice; Drag Racing, South Dakota Circuit, Linden/Soesdyke Highway; Car & Bike Show, Mainstay Community Centre Ground, Anna Regina; Digicel Guyana Curried Duck Competition, Anna Regina Community Centre Ground, Anna Regina, Essequibo; Novice Body BuildingChampionship, Theatre Guild, Parade Street,Kingston, Georgetown.

September September 1-30 - Indigenous Heritage Month. For information on activities contact the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs on 592-227-5067 or 592-225-6644.

September 3 - Eid-Ul- Adha (National Holiday).

September (date to be announced) - Nereid’s Yacht Rally,Hurakabra River Resort. Call 592-226-0240.

November November 1-30 - Tourism Awareness Month.

Contact the Guyana Tourism Authority on 592219-0094-6 for information on activities.

November 17-26 - Restaurant Week.

Contact THAG on 592-225-0807.

November 25-26 - Rupununi Expo, Lethem, Rupununi.

November 30 - YoumanNabi(National Holiday).

November - South Rupununi Safari. Contact Rainforest Tours on 592-231-5661 for dates.

A thrilling performance at a past Bartica Easter Regatta (Explore Guyana photo)

December December 16-24 - “Christmas Holiday Gift Festival” at Courtyard Mall, Georgetown.

December 25 - Christmas Day (National Holiday).

December 26 - Boxing Day (National Holiday).

Mash Float Parade (Photo by Amanda Richards)

Please note this is not the final and complete draft of the Guyana Tourism Authority’s calendar of events for 2017.

For updates, please visit www.guyana-tourism.com or Guyana Tourism Authority on Facebook

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Times Healthy Living

Pre-natal health

W

hat women eat during pregnancy affects the physical and mental development of their child for years to come.

A foetus’s brain starts forming just three weeks after conception, and the food you eat plays a vital role in its development. Studies show that good nutrition is an unequivocal determinant of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

In fact, some theorize that good prenatal nutrition is a promising strategy for preventing chronic disease worldwide.

For example, adequate intake of folic acid before and during pregnancy may reduce the incidence of devastating neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly by at least 50 per cent to 70 per cent.

Inadequate weight gain during pregnancy increases a woman’s risk of having a low birth weight baby, in turn raising the child’s odds of developing numerous health problems and disabilities.

Weight gain

Conversely, women who gain too much weight during pregnancy are at higher risk of having large babies, infants with low Apgar scores, caesarean section delivery, and postnatal weight retention.

Long term, a poor diet during pregnancy may put offspring at risk for obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease later in life.

The ideal daily caloric intake for pregnant women is 300 calories more than prepregnancy caloric needs.

Putting on too many pounds during pregnancy increases your chances of a premature delivery -- and babies born early may be at a disadvantage when it comes to learning.

“Premature delivery is one of the greatest risk factors for mental impairment,” says Dr. Lise Eliot. “There's a strong link between birth weight, IQ score, and school achievement.”

Babies born early miss out on the unique nourishment that the placenta provides, are exposed to stimuli they're normally protected from in the womb, and are more vulnerable to infection.

Brain food

A baby’s brain undergoes rapid changes between weeks 24 and 42 of pregnancy, with significant brain growth occurring from 34 weeks. A wide range of nutrients are needed for this development.

Sardines

drizzle with butter and also eat the skin.

Avocados Super-nutrient: Monounsaturated fatty acids: Fat makes up around 60 per cent of the developing brain. Avocados contain high levels of oleic acid which helps to create and maintain myelin, a fatty protective coating around nerves in the central nervous system.

You need 25-35 per cent of your daily calories should come from fat, ideally monounsaturated fat. Peel and add to salads or slice into sandwiches. Alternatively, whisk three avocados with one tomato, lime juice and a small onion.

Other necessary nutrients

Sardines, like other oily fish, are a rich source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is important for helping the brain and central nervous system mature.

Sardines are less likely to be contaminated with mercury than many other fish and are good for vitamin D. Pregnant women are advised to consume at least two portions of fish per week, one of which should be oily. Panfry or grill fresh sardines and serve with a zesty tomato, pepper and cucumber salsa.

Fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may boost your baby's brainpower. In a study from Harvard Medical School, the more fish women ate during the second trimester, the higher their babies scored on a mental-development test at 6 months of age. Omega-3s are found in brain-cell membranes, so there are plenty of ways they can influence brain function.

Fish is good for your baby's brain, but you do need to take a few precautions. As noted above, mercury contamination in some fish may be harmful. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises all pregnant women to avoid shark, tilefish, king mackerel, and swordfish completely, since they contain the highest levels.

Some lower-mercury options: salmon, catfish, pollack, whitefish, tilapia, and shrimp. Even with these varieties, it must be reiterated that you should limit all fish to 12 ounces (about two meals) per week. And opt for canned light tuna over canned white albacore, which has more mercury.

Lentils Iron is crucial, affecting the production of brain chemicals and the formation

of myelin, which is vital for swift and accurate message sending in the brain. Too little iron can lead to impaired mental development.

You need 14.8mg of iron per day during pregnancy. A serving of lentils provides 6.6mg. Combining lentils with vitamin C boosts the iron available to your body, so add butternut squash, peppers, cabbage or tomatoes to lentil soup for a balanced serving.

Eggs Super-nutrient: Choline: Eggs are a great source of protein and iron, which are both vital for brain development. They gain superfood status for their high levels of choline, which is essential in developing memory and a life-long ability to learn.

You need 450mg of choline per day. The richest source is egg yolks – one hard-boiled egg gives you 113mg. Add hard-boiled eggs to a salad of mixed leaves and spinach sprinkled with dry-roasted seeds.

Peanuts Peanuts are a great snack food during pregnancy, being rich in protein, niacin, monounsaturated fats and folate.

Their high vitamin E content supports DHA and also protects brain cell membranes.

Choose unsalted roasted or natural peanuts with the skins intact for a hit of antioxidants.

Three mg of vitamin E a day – a serving of natural (no added oil) peanut butter provides just that. Spread natural peanut butter onto oatcakes as a convenient and tasty snack.

Sweet potatoes Super-nutrient: Betacarotene: Beta-carotene is

converted by the body into vitamin A, which is required for development of the baby’s central nervous system.

Scientists recommend 700mcg per day, and a medium-sized sweet potato provides your daily quota. Sweet potatoes with orange flesh have the highest concentration of beta-carotene. Bake them whole for 30 minutes,

Produce generally contains antioxidants, which are good for your baby.

“Antioxidants protect the baby's brain tissue from damage,” says nutritionist Elizabeth Somer, RD, author of Nutrition for a Healthy Pregnancy.

Choose deep-coloured produce like dark leafy greens, papaya, and tomatoes for the biggest antioxidant boost.

Just remember to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly, even fruits that have a rind (since cutting it

will drag germs through the flesh).

Your body needs more protein to build cells and make hormones for your growing baby. In fact, your protein intake must jump by 10 extra grams per day. Some good protein boosters: a yogurt smoothie at breakfast, a cup of bean soup at lunch, peanut butter on whole-grain crackers for a snack, or a 3-ounce portion of lean beef at dinner.

Importantly, you must take your prenatal vitamin daily. Taking it will help ensure that you get the balance of nutrients your baby needs, like folic acid and vitamin B12 to make red blood cells, vitamin C to produce collagen, vitamin D for bone building, and zinc for brain development.

If your vitamin upsets your stomach, don't stop taking it: Try taking it with a meal, or talk to your doctor about switching brands.

Avoid Alcohol

Though foetal alcohol syndrome is associated with heavy alcohol abuse during pregnancy, even moderate amounts of beer, wine, or liquor can harm a baby's brain, according to the March of Dimes. Light to moderate drinking can lead to problems with learning, attention, memory, and social skills down the road.

10 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Fashion

Sonia Noel

I

Designer Sonia Noel

n celebration of her 20 years in the fashion industry, local doyenne of fashion, Sonia Noel,recently launched a collection of skirts with her signature lattice designs.

“It is a blessing to be able to reach this juncture – which was no smooth sailing.

It took a combination of navigational skills to outmanoeuvre hurdles,and a resilience to literally row my own boat when the waters got rough.But my faith in God got me to two decades in style.I am particularly proud of being able to use the platform of fashion to inspire lives,” Noel expressed in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

Her favourite fashion quote is by Colombian fashion journalist and critic Nina Garcia, who once said: “If you look back in history of the women who are most memorable and most stylish, they were never the followers of fashion. They were the ones who were unique in their style, breakers of the rules. They were authentic, genuine, original. They were

not following the trends.”

Locally, regionally and internationally, the designer is famous for her sophisticated, versatile designs that can be worn

from the beach to the ballroom.

Notably, these colourful skirts can be converted to dresses and tops.

For more information,

visit sonianoel.com or Sonia Noel Designs on Facebook.

This week’s featured designs are worn by models Anasha, Nkechi, Ambika, Saudia, Peggy, and Odessa.

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

C

hristine "Chrissy" Teigen is an American model, actress and author. She made her debut in the annual Sports Illustrated (swimsuit issue) in 2010 and appeared on its cover in 2014. She co-hosts “Lip Sync Battle” with LL Cool J on Spike TV and joined the lifestyle panel talk show FABLife. In 2013, Teigen appeared in her husband John Legend's music video for the song "All Of Me", which was inspired by their relationship. In January 2015, Teigen appeared as a guest star on “The Mindy Project”. On February 23, 2016, Teigen's cookbook “Cravings” was released and became a New York Times bestseller.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Hollywood

Nicki Minaj's Beverly Hills mansion robbed

N

icki Minaj recently found herself the victim of a break-in.

TMZ reported that the rapper's Beverly Hills mansion was burglarized earlier this week when she was out of town. The thieves reportedly hauled over US$200,000 worth of jewelry and other valuable property.

According to the site, Nicki's 11,500-square-foot

mansion has been completely torn apart, with thieves apparently seeking some very particular items. There were signs of forced entry to the house, and the burglary appeared to be highly organized.

"Other sources connected to the case tell us the damage looks like this was personal," noted the site. "They vandalized certain items in

the house..destroyed picture frames, perfume bottles, furniture... and even cut up Nicki's clothing." Police are currently looking for any surveillance footage that can help identify the culprits.

According to Officer LilianaPreciado of the Los Angeles Police Department, the burglary occurred sometime between November 24 and January 24, when the Young Money rapper was out of town and the residence was left alone. Neither the LAPD nor Minaj's rep immediately returned a request for comment.

Following the incident, Nicki was reportedly spending a bundle on a new security system for her posh mansion, which she has been renting for US$30,000 a month. The "Super Bass" hitmaker was pissed by the incident, so she hired 24/7 security guards and placed numerous cameras to secure the house. (AceShowbiz)

Man undergoes 90 procedures to look like Britney Spears

A

big fan of Britney Spears, Bryan Ray has spent over US$80,000 on 90 plastic surgery procedures to make himself look like his eternal idol.

Ray from California has always been obsessed with the "...Baby One More Time" singer. He started emulating the "Make Me..." singer by having veneers to match her smile. Ray has undergone 90 procedures to look like the iconic pop star.

He's spent over US$80,000 in total for a nose job, fat injections, laser hair removal, lip fill-

ers, botox injections and many more. Additionally, Ray keeps his skin looking

F

NursetGokce—or “Salt Bae”, as the world has come to know and love him by— first graced us with his

B

eyonce's pregnancy announcement has broken the record for most likes on Instagram.

Just eight hours after telling the world she and Jay-Z were expecting twins, the picture was liked almost 6.6million times.

The record was previously held by Selena Gomez, who attracted 6.3million likes for her sponsored photo of herself sipping a bottle of Coca-Cola.

The record-breaking pic sees Bey, holding her new bump, wearing just a bra, underwear and a veil, in

front of a huge wreath of flowers.

“We would like to share our love and happiness.

We have been blessed two times over. We are incredibly grateful that our family will be growing by two, and we thank you for your well wishes - The Carters,” she captioned it.

While Queen Bey nicked the likes record from Gomez, the “Kill EmWith Kindness”hitmaker still retains the followers title.

Besides Instagram's own account, the 24-year-old is the only person with more

than 100million followers — 108 million to be exact.

With 96million, Beyoncé is only the fourth most followed person, behind third placed Ariana Grande and second-placed Taylor Swift.

It is not yet known if Knowles - who is believed to be between four and five months along - will honour her headline slot at this year's Coachella Festival, although early indications are she will.

Beyonce and Jay-Z are already parents to fiveyear-old daughter Blue Ivy. (Daily Mail)

youthful by splashing out US$500 a month on lotions and creams. (AceShowbiz)

Leonardo DiCaprio gets a steak dinner from internet sensation ‘Salt Bae’

irst step: Become an internet sensation.

Next: Salt a steak for Leonardo DiCaprio.

Beyonce's pregnancy photo becomes ‘most liked photo ever on Instagram’

beautiful presence in January by salting a seared steak in the most elegant of ways. After the internet nearly exploded (and James Corden dedicated a whole segment to him), it looks like the Revenant star wanted to see the action up close.

The Turkish chef posted a photo of himself on Instagram mid-salting while DiCaprio looks on with what we can only imagine is amazement.

The photo was taken at Gokce’s steakhouse in Dubai, Nusr-Et. (People)

H

is music is a staple on the catwalk, he performs at the most stylish parties and he’s famously rocked the Victoria’s Secret runway two years in a row.

So it was only a matter of time before the Weeknd (né Abel Tesfaye) made his official crossover into the fashion industry.

The musician fronts H&M’s new Spring Icons campaign, tapped by the brand to curate a complete wardrobe of essential streetwear pieces including hoodies, loose T-shirts, bomber jackets and tailored trousers.

“My personal style is very instinctive – I wear what feels right,” he tells PeopleStyle exclusively. “It’s casual, and often very understated, but I always care about what I’m wearing. There’s always a decision that’s been made. It’s interesting to see how menswear has changed this century, and how sports and streetwear has become a natural part of menswear. As this has happened, the pieces have become more elevated, with more care and attention in their design. If I look back, I can see how my own style has become more focused and specific, but at the same time more personal and relaxed.”

His collaboration with the fast fashion

powerhouse is set to launch on March 2, and most pieces include his XO symbol, a moniker he uses on social media and on cover art for this albums.

“Abel’s taste and style perfectly fits the menswear mood of the season at H&M. He has such a great eye for the little details that matter, and for mixing together updated men’s classics for the perfect tailored streetwear look,” Andreas Löwenstam, Head of Design for menswear at H&M, shares in a statement.

The star maintains that owning your own personal style is all about trusting your instincts.

“Don’t think you have to be loud and flashy, sometimes it’s the simple details that can actually show who you really are,” he tells PeopleStyle. “It’s like music – what first sounds like a really spare production can actually be the most complex track. It’s really about finding your own language in the way that you dress. More and more, I’ve been mixing up street with more formal pieces – which I think creates a really fresh look.”

The pieces set to be released until March 2. (People)

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Star Times Bollywood

S

hiv Pandit is an Indian actor and television host. Having being featured in several commercials, Pandit landed the lead role in the sitcom,“FIR” (2006). In 2008 he wascontracted as the host for the first edition of the Indian Premier League for the show “Extraaa Innings T20”.Pandit made his Bollywood film debut in “Shaitan” (2011). He was nominated for the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut for “Shaitan”.

He went on to make his debut in the Tamil film industry in “Leelai”. The actor is co-owner of the Chandigarh Cubs cricket team in the Box Cricket League along with actress Anita Hassanandani.

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Times Bollywood

Sridevi: ‘You don’t have to Before becoming a learn motherhood, it’s natural’ Bollywood star, Jacqueline Fernandez was a reporter S

M

any Bollywood actors have been in various professions before making their foray into the film industry.

Jacqueline Fernandez is one of them.

“Not many know that the actor was a Mass Communication student, and has been a reporter in Sri Lanka. Apparently, her mother recently came across an old reporting tape of the actor and sent it to her.

Jacqueline, on seeing the old footage, got nostalgic not only about her reporting days, but also about her journey from being a reporter to an established actor in B-Town,”

says a source.

Jacqueline says, “I do miss those reporting days. It was such an adventure every day — coming to work, finding out what the latest news was, and working with a team.

It was like being a detective.”

Delving deeper into the real role of a journalist, the actor says, “The most important thing for me, while I was studying investigative journalism, was to always make sure that I cover both sides of the stories.

It is not for you [a journalist] to decide or judge; it is for the public [to decide]. So it is important that both sides are covered from every angle,” says Jacqueline, adding that she always tried to maintain fairness [in her stories].

She added, “My show was called the nowar zone. It was based on day-to-day activities happening in Sri Lanka, especially ethnic conflicts. There was a lot for us to cover, and uncover. It was very educational. It wasn’t about uncovering unknown events. It was about educating people on both sides of a conflict.”

The actor will next be seen in “Reload” co-starring Sidharth Malhotra, “Judwaa 2” co-starring Varun Dhawan, and in an untitled project opposite Sushant Singh Rajput.

(Hindustan Times)

Kangana on emails to Hrithik: ‘I don’t write such crap’

L

ooks like the Kangana Ranaut-Hrithik Roshan war of words has renewed once again, threatening to bring out more dirty secrets of the two stars’ alleged romance.

Dismissing the rumour that she allegedly sent 1439 emails to Hrithik, Kangana told Mid Day in a recent interview that she doesn’t write “such crap” as she is a “certified screenwriter”.

“I felt stigmatised. I

would wake up to (reports) of hideous mails, which I hadn’t written. I am a certified screenwriter from the New York Film Academy. I don’t write such crap,” she said in the interview.

Kangana added, “I was dragged to court for being who I am. I was restricted to a relationship that was (carried out) behind closed doors and I fought it fair and square. People talk rubbish, but they can’t decide how I

lead my life.”

Kangana and Hrithik, with whom she was allegedly in a secret relationship, indulged in a public war of words in 2016.

In the interview, Kangana also spoke about the recent trend which saw Indian actors like Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra taking up Hollywood projects. She dismissed it as ”baits that I won’t fall prey to.” “It would be stupid for anyone to make the move to the West now. Their theatre business is crashing because of the influx of digital media,” she said.

Kangana is currently working on Hansal Mehta’s “Simran” and will soon be seen essaying the role of an action star from the 40s in Vishal Bhardwaj’s “Rangoon”, which also stars Shahid Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan. (Hindustan Times)

Richa Chadha wants to improve Delhi’s Under 19 women’s cricket

A

ctor Richa Chadha has always been vocal about issues that matter. The actor, who will essay the role of a film star, who owns a cricket team in her next project, says she has been researching a lot and also working on a show based on cricket.

She strongly feels about women’s cricket scene in India as facilities available for them are minimal as opposed to men’s cricket. She says: “I feel, India is doing amazing in sports everywhere but when it comes to women’s cricket, it’s still progressing.”

“I really want these young girls to be the future of a successful women’s cricket team and touch a higher notch. I’m doing my bit by supporting them in whatever way possible,” says Richa, who is looking forward to work with her cousin (who is a part of Delhi District Cricket Association) for the betterment of Under-19 women’s cricket team in

Delhi.

The actor feels there is no dearth of talent among women, but there is not enough encouragement for them when it comes to cricket. She strongly feels aspiring women cricketers should get proper facilities.

(Hindustan Times)

ridevi says nothing is more important than motherhood and her priority is always her two daughters.

Married to producer Boney Kapoor in 1996 and a mother of two daughters Jhanvi and Khushi, she said, “Nothing is more important than your children.”

Sridevi was interacting with the media at the launch event of single “Kabhi Yaadon Mein” on Thursday.

Filmmaker Divya Khosla Kumar features in the soulful music which revolves around the beautiful relation between a child and mother.

The 90s’ hit song is recreated by Abhijit Vaghani and crooned by Palak Muchchal and Arijit Singh.

The 53-year-old actress, who has appeared in a string of commercially successful movies and has played a various role in a career spanning for four decades, says she used to copy her mother to play on-screen mother. “Before I became a

mother, I remembered how my mother used to talk or behave. She is always at the back of my mind,” she said.

“After you become a mother, the instinct comes naturally. You don’t have to learn motherhood,” she added.

Sridevi who made a comeback with Gauri Shinde’s

T

he Supreme Court has asked the producer of Akshay Kumarstarrer “Jolly LLB 2” to approach the Bombay High Court against its earlier order appointing a three-member committee to review the upcoming film.

A bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that it was keeping the plea, filed by the film producer in the apex court, pending and asked them to go to the Bombay High Court for relief. “You (producer) go to the high court. We will keep it (plea) pending here,” the bench told senior advocate Kapil Sibal, who was representing the movie producer.

The film producer, Fox Studios, has approached the apex court against the Bombay High Court order appointing a three-member committee to review the film following allegations that it has made the legal and judicial system a laughing stock.

During the hearing, Sibal told the bench that the movie, which is releasing on

February 10, has already been cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the appointment of panel to review it was not as per law. “We have the CBFC certificate.

How can this (review by committee) be done? It is not in accordance with the law,” he said.

When the bench told the producer to go to the high court, Sibal said, “Then the review by the committee should be postponed till the high court decides it.”

However, the bench said, “We will not say anything on that. Let the high court hear

“English Vinglish” in 2011, will be soon seen in “Mom”.

Directed by Ravi Udyawar and produced by Boney Kapoor and Sridevi, the film stars Sridevi, Akshaye Khanna and Abhimanyu Singh in the main cast and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in a special appearance. (IANS)

it first”.

“We post this matter for further consideration...we leave it to the high court to pass appropriate order,” the bench said.

As Sibal urged the bench to see Jolly LLB 2, Justice Gogoi said “We will not see the film. We will tell you why we will not see the film.

We don’t have three hours’ patience. Don’t you think that three hours is too long.”

The Aurangabad bench of the Bombay high court set up the committee to see the film after lawyer Ajaykumar Waghmare (who filed the petition alleging the film shows Indian legal and judiciary professions in a bad light), told the court that the film was an attempt to portray the country’s legal profession and the judicial system in a poor light. “It is an attempt to portray the Indian legal profession and judicial system as a laughing stock to society at large”, Waghmare told the High Court. (PTI)

Sanjay Dutt wanted to ‘beat up’ Rishi Kapoor

I

t’s ironic that Ranbir Kapoor is all set to play the title role in a biopic based on Sanjay Dutt, considering that the “Khalnayak” star once wanted to beat up his father — veteran actor Rishi Kapoor.

Strange as it may sound, this is exactly what’s written in Rishi’s biography “Khullam Khulla”.

“It’s true. Sanju was having an affair with Tina Munim at the time, and he thought that Chintu (as Rishi is referred to by his friends) was having one with her too. Sanju and I were like brothers, and he

told me one day, ‘We have to go to Chintu’s house and beat him up’. We went to do that, but his fiancée Neetuji managed to convince us that Chintu was not in any such relationship. So we left,” discloses fellow actor Gulshan Grover candidly.

Back then, Rishi was yet to marry Neetu Singh.

As Rishi is known for his outspoken nature and tweets, his book is expected to have more interesting revelations of the kind.

Now, it’s up to Ranbir to make peace with an old story. (Hindustan Times)

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Sunday Times Magazine

15

Times Trends

Star of the week

W

ith a degree in geological engineering from the University of Guyana, Pricilla Moore is adamant on pursuing a career in a fieldmostly dominated by males. She disclosed that being a female in geological engineering is a “disadvantage, as most mining companies prefer to hire males”. Determined to break down stereotypes however, Pricilla refuses to let-up and hopes one day she gets the opportunity to pursue her passion for geological engineering.“I will not give up because I am sincerely passionate about this profession.

I love being outdoors. I am adventurous and love traveling and this area allows me to do just that. I like that this profession means being active as it helps to keep one fit.I take pride in knowing I am physically able-bodied in life,” she states.Not only is Pricilla an academic, but also a model and a former athlete.

She first began modeling for photo shoots in 2012 and has continued to do so. She was on the Guyana national swimming team and later played badminton. Although she “loved being an athlete”, Pricilla decided that her “studies were more important” as these sport activities were “demanding”. Now, Pricilla hopes to “find a suitable job within the geological engineering field”. Additionally, she plans to pursue a master’s in petroleum engineering.

Pricillais Sunday Times ‘Star of the Week’ because of her admirable tenacity.

Trending Now

Trends you should be wearing right now

H

ere are a few international catwalk trends that will influence all fashion enthusiasts’ wardrobe choices. From the

cold shoulder trend, to full-on florals and ruffles, ‘80s party wear and the slogan T-shirt, these should be part of your new go-to wardrobe essentials.

Ruffles are huge right now. If you’re not into “girly”, choose a black leather ruffles outfit for a statement look.

‘80s party style. Think metallics, disco leggings and the one-shoulder dress - the ‘80s are back!

Slogans and logos. It’s time to let your T-shirt do the talking.

Wallpaper print. Head-to-toe florals are a hit right now.

16 Sunday Times Magazine

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Times Art

P

aper is one of the most versatile materials for jewellery making, and local designing business Dis Is De Place has artistically

Local artisan creatively turns paper into elegant eco-friendly jewellery

transformed it into elegant jewellery. Dis Is De Place’s Papel Line offers rings, bracelets, cuffs, pendants – all made from paper.

Dis Is De Place, launched in 2013, is a business that creates and markets handmade jewellery and craft made by skilled Guyanese and West Indian craftsmen.

The emphasis is on ‘upcycled’ sustainable products, which are eco-friendly and well-priced.

Papel (Spanish for paper) jewellery is laminated eco-friendly jewellery made by a unique lamination process of sheets of paper. The end result is a high gloss finish which is water resistant with the durability of wood.

It is handmade, hand-painted and embellished with either crackled marble, sequins, glitter and soft copper/gold wire.

According to Dis Is De Place’s manager Wayne Barrow, during the production process, the laminated paper is sanded lightly to a smooth finish followed by a sealant. The sealant may be high gloss or matte depending on the style being created. For those who have

sensitive skin, the jewellery findings are hypo-allergenic and may be of sterling silver or gold-filled.

The Papel Line may take the form of rings, bracelets, cuffs and pendants. The line is sold as a set comprising earrings, pendants and bands. They are also made to order in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the taste of the discriminating buyers. In spite of the hardness of the material, it is not heavy around the neck or wrist. Each set is packaged in a jewellery box

and contains details of the product.

“Our Papel line is fashioned after Jeremy May's and Liz Hamman's high-priced line of paper jewellery.

It has also been designed as a first anniversary gift for those celebrating their wedding or other relationship goals,” Barrow noted.

Barrow added that Dis Is De Place was founded with the aim of helping local craftsmen and women access a steady income and an acceptable level of empowerment.

Examining the Papel Line by Dis Is De Place is so appealing. Due to paper’s seemingly fragile nature, these artistic pieces of handcrafted jewellery draw

people in for a closer look.

Admirers are always curious – or even suspicious as to whether it will survive a wearing. However, with care and common sense, paper jewellery can be worn again and again.

This week Sunday Times Magazine features a few pieces from Dis Is De Place’s Papel collection.

For more information, call 220-4147 or visit Dis Is De Place on Facebook.

But for an unfortunate misprint, the correct name of last week’s featured artist should have read ‘Charlesdel Valenzuela’.

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Sunday Times Magazine 17

Times Tech

A

pple plans to start assembling the iPhone in Bangalore by the end of April, under a contract manufacturing arrangement with Taiwan's Wistron.

The move by the company comes even as it awaits approval from the Indian federal government for some of its proposals for lowering the import duties on components and for creating an ecosystem of local manufacturers who can supply components for the smartphones, according to sources close to the situation.

The Karnataka state, of

Tech news

A

which Bangalore is the capital, has announced Apple’s intentions to make the iPhone in the city.

Apple did not immediately comment. The company has been planning to make its phones in India as well as set up its own retail stores in the country to address the booming local market, which is expected to see higher demand for Apple devices because of the rollout of 4G networks. iPhone sales were up over 50 percent in the country in fiscal 2016 over the previous year.

Getting the price down by local assembly is critical

for Apple as the market is very price-sensitive.

Apple has tried to get the Indian federal government to allow it to import refurbished phones that it could sell at low prices, but that proposal has run into criticism from some sections of government because of the environmental consequences of bringing into the country end-of-life products.

Assembling phones in Bangalore would help Apple meet local sourcing rules for single-brand, foreign-owned retail stores, thus giving momentum to this other plan of the company. (CW)

Apple, Samsung see smartphone declines in 2016

pple and Samsung saw declines in smartphone shipments for the entire 2016 calendar year, research firm IDC reported Wednesday, though Apple iPhones beat out Samsung smartphones both globally and in the U.S. in the final

quarter of 2016.

Up-and-coming Huawei, based in China, finished third globally for both the quarter and the year.Oppo and Vivo, both also based in China, finished in fourth and fifth place, respectively, for both the quarter and the year.

The numbers were also in line with a report released by research firm Strategy Analytics on Tuesday.

“The roller coaster year of 2016 proves

that no manufacturer is safe in their position in the smartphone market, especially as some markets crash and others rise,” said IDC analyst Ryan Reith in an email.

Even though Apple and Samsung were down for the year, growth is still predicted for smartphones in 2017 and beyond, Reith said.

For Apple, 2016 marked the first full year of declining shipments for the iPhone, with a 7 per cent decline over all of 2015.Samsung finished first for all of 2016 with 311 million smartphones shipped globally, but just barely fell behind Apple for the quarter, with 77.5 million shipped globally.

The South Korean company's recall of 3 million Note7 smartphones because of overheating batteries had an impact, but the Galaxy S7 and J-series phones were nonetheless successful, IDC said, without giving shipment figures for either. Samsung's fourth quarter share fell below 20 per cent for the first time in four years. (Source:

Computer World)

Tech BYTE

A

Reptilian robots spy on the animal world

new series airing on the BBC this week deploys lifelike reptilian robots that walk and film freely among their living subjects.

The robots were built at Switzerland's École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). Known for its animal robotics, it was the robotic salamander built by EPFL's Biorobotics Lab back in 2013 that caught the eye of BBC producers.

"We extensively work with robots to understand animal locomotion," Kamilo Melo, a scientist at EPFL, tells New Atlas.

Croc robot

“Particularly, we work with salamander robots, which are one kind of sprawling posture animal. BBC Producer Rob Pilley ap-

Robotic monitor lizard

proached us with interest to develop a crocodile version of our sprawling posture robots for his program.”

So the team got to work designing and building not just the robotic crocodile, but a monitor lizard as well.

This involved studying the animals' movements in order to recreate their walking mechanics, and using motors, aluminium and carbon fibre to imitate joints and bones.

A small computer was embedded and hooked up to 24 motors that allows remote control up to 500 m (1,640 ft.) away, and then finally the robots were wrapped in a waterproof latex skin.

Equipped with cameras rather than eyes, the robots were able to get up close and personal with live creatures in their natural habitats in Uganda.

While they helped the BBC get the footage they needed, they also double as a valuable research tool for the EPFL team, and involved both high tech and art.

Uber CEO quits Trump advisory board amid criticism ‘Plastic’ bags that dissolve

P

U

ber CEO Travis Kalanick has quit President Donald Trump’s economic advisory council, according to Yahoo Finance.

Uber’s chief executive disclosed the decision in a memo to employees on Thursday, obtained by Yahoo Finance. Kalanick said he withdrew from Trump’s advisory board in a brief conversation with Trump on early Thursday.

“Joining the group was not meant to be an endorsement of the president or his agenda but unfortunately it has been misinterpreted to be exactly that,” Kalanick explained to employees in the memo.

In December, Kalanick joined the Strategic and Policy Forum, an advisory board of 19 business leaders that now also includes Tesla (TSLA) CEO Elon Musk and PepsiCo (PEP) CEO Indra Nooyi.

The move quickly generated criticism from some, who viewed Kalanick’s participation as a Trump endorsement. Some us-

Uber CEO Travis Kalanick

ers in more recent weeks quit using Uber for Lyft as a form of protest.

lastic is one of the most polluting agents in the world. According to Mette Wilkie, Director of the Division of Environmental Policy Implementation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), every year there are between 10 and 20 million tons of plastic residues in the ocean, which pose a great threat to marine life. More so, these residues represent over US$13,000 million in cost.

As response to this problem, Indonesian company Avanicreated ‘plastic’ bags that are biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable. Their bioplastic is made from cassava root and all natural resins. They can be used as bio-based shopping bags, garbage bags, and general packaging.

They have a biodegradation time of 3-6 months depending on soil conditions, and dissolve if submerged in water hotter than 80 degrees Celsius, softens in cold water, and leaves only a

small amount of ash when burnt.

They leave behind carbon dioxide and biomass but aren’t toxic. More so, they can be safely consumed by snails, insects and other land and aquatic animals.

“They will cause no harm to life or the environment. [They] are the perfect substitute for single-use conventional plastic bags that are a major cause of the global plastic waste epidemic. They feel like plastic, look like plastic and perform like plastic, but unlike plastic, you can discard them with a clear conscience,” says their webpage, which noted that every year an estimated one trillion plastic bags are consumed globally.

Avani also provides a range of sustainable food packaging options like coffee cups, take away containers, straws, cutlery and ponchos made from resources such as cornstarch, sunflower and sugarcane.

18 Sunday Times Magazine

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Times Home & Cooking

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Recipe of the Week

A

Ingredients

smart home, or smart house, as defined by the UK Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is “A dwelling incorporating a communications network that connects the key electri-

cal appliances and services, and allows them to be remotely controlled, monitored or accessed.” With that in mind, consider the following and decide if you would want a smart home…

A smart home may control lighting, temperature, multi-media, security, window and door operations, as well as many other functions.

1 1/2 tbsps. olive oil 1 egg 3/4 cup dried breadcrumbs 700g potatoes, cut into wedges 4 (130g each) firm white fish 700g orange sweet potatoes, peeled, halved lengthways, cut fillets (such as snapper) 200g green beans, steamed, to into 2.5cm-thick slices serve tartare sauce, to serve

Method Preheat oven to 230°C. Line 2 large baking trays with non-stick baking paper. Place potatoes and 2 tablespoons of cold water in a large heatproof bowl. Cover with plastic wrap.

Microwave on high (100 per cent) for 5 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to bowl.

Add sweet potatoes and oil to potatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.

Spread wedges, in a single layer, on 1 tray. Roast for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, lightly beat egg in a shallow bowl. Place breadcrumbs on a plate. Dip fish fillets, 1 at a time, in egg. Place in breadcrumbs. Using fingertips, press breadcrumbs onto both sides of fish. Place fish on remaining tray.

Reduce oven to 210°C. Place fish below wedges in oven. Roast both for 10 to 15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and potatoes golden. Divide between plates. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with beans and tartare sauce.

Serves 4

W A Samsung Family Hub refrigerator, featuring a Wi-Fi-enabled 21.5" LED touchscreen.

A smart home's refrigerator may be able to catalogue its contents, suggest menus, recommend healthy alternatives, and order replacements as food is used up

hen you deep-fry, hold each piece of food with long tongs as you add it to the oil. Hold it just below the oil’s surface for five seconds before releasing it. This will seal the exterior and stop it from sticking to the pot or the other food.

When making mashed potatoes, after you drain the potatoes, return them to the hot pan, cover tightly and let steam for 5 minutes. This allows the potatoes to dry out so they’ll mash to a beautiful texture and soak up the butter and cream more easily.

Do as the Peruvians do, and make it your practice to heat minced garlic or other aromatics in a pot with some oil before adding the water and rice.

An extra few minutes of work will yield a much more flavourful base.

C Smart Home panels. Many new homes are being built with the additional wiring and controls which are required to run advanced home automation systems. Retro-fitting (adding smart home technologies to an existing property) a house to make it a smart home is obviously significantly costlier than adding the required technologies to a new home due to the complications of routing wires and placing sensors in appropriate places

ommon household cleaners are perfect on their own but mixed with another they may become harmful. Never mix two different drain cleaners or use one right after the other.

These are powerful formulas, and could even explode if combined.

Skip any DIY cleaner recipe that involves a baking soda and vinegar mix. Baking soda is basic and vinegar is acidic. When you put them together you get mostly water and sodium acetate.

But really, just mostly water. Additionally, vinegar causes baking soda to foam up; if stored in a closed container, the mixture can explode.

A bleach and vinegar combination sounds like it'd be a powerful disinfectant, but the two should never be mixed. Together, they produce chlorine gas, which even at low levels, can cause coughing, breathing problems, and burning, watery eyes.

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Sunday Times Magazine19

Family Times

PARENTING

How social media is affecting your parenting

W

(Continued)

JOKES A

Talking Dog

guy is driving around Tennessee and he sees a sign in front of a house: “Talking Dog for Sale.”

He rings the bell and the owner tells him the dog is in the back yard. The guy goes into the back yard and sees a Labrador retriever sitting there.

“You talk?” the man asks.

“Yes, I do,” the lab replies.

“So, what’s your story?”

The lab looks up and says, “Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the country, so I told the CIA about my gift. In no time at all, they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping. I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running. But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn’t getting any younger, so I decided to settle down. I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I’m just retired.”

The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog.

“Ten dollars.”

“Ten dollars? This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?!”

“Because he’s a liar. He never did any of that stuff!”

M

School Life

ost Irritating Moment: Morning alarm Most Difficult Task: Finding socks Most Dreadful Journey: Way to class Most Lovely Time: Meeting friends Most Tragic Moment: Surprise test in 1st period Most Wonderful News: Teacher is absent.

Science Humour

You know you’re a geek if you get these jokes: Trust Never trust an atom... They make up everything.

Two Atoms Two atoms are walking down the street together. The first atom turns and says, “Hey, you just stole an electron from me!”

“Are you sure?” asks the second atom.

To which the first atom replies, “Yeah, I’m positive!”

Neutron’s Drink A neutron walks into a bar and asks, “How much for a drink?”

To which the bartender replies, “For you, no charge.”

Neutrino A neutrino walks through a bar.

Photon A photon checks into a hotel, and the bellhop asks if he needs any help with his luggage.

The photon says, “No thanks, I’m traveling light!

hen we picture the quintessential 1950s housewife, we think of a mom happily smiling as she cooks, cleans, and raises perfect, good-looking kids. That perfect domestic diva might be a myth, but she'd be right at home on Facebook and Instagram today, where a certain type of parent seems determined to keep up with the Joneses virtually, posting an avalanche of perfectly photogenic shots of the family baking pies, taking walks on the beach in crisp colour-coordinated outfits, and sharing a lazy -- yet somehow, perfectly art-directed -- Saturday morning at home eating lemon-ricotta blueberry pancakes made from a recipe found on Pinterest.

They might like you to believe their daily life is wholly without flaws. But you have to wonder: "Are the lives of all these shiny, happy families in our

feeds really that perfect?" Our poll respondents don't think so: Sixty-seven percent think most parents aren't hon-

est on social media about the realities of parenting. Perhaps because all of us are, to some extent, faking it.

One mother of three recounts the

guilt she'd been feeling about getting home from work too late to eat with her family, much less whip up a meal for everyone. Meanwhile, a Facebook friend, also a mom, was posting photos that made her look like Nigella Lawson in training. "Pasta with roasted butternut squash and bacon. Poached chicken breasts stuffed with goat cheese and spinach, and so on," she recalls. "Then one day I ran into her husband on my way home and teasingly asked him what great meal awaited him that evening, and he said, 'Tonight? Probably McDonald's. We do that a couple of nights a week.'

"I couldn't believe it or that I'd let my imagination get so distorted by what I saw on Facebook," she says.

"Of course that mom cut corners sometimes too -- she just didn't post about it." (To Be Continued) (From: “Parenting in a

Fakebook World: How Social Media Is Affecting Your Parenting” by Mackenzie Dawson, Parents Magazine)

STORY TIME

The Simple Things

I

t was a dry summer.

The animals in the forest were beginning to find it difficult to get food.

A bear, a wolf and a jackal thought it would be better to join hands with a lion and do the hunting.

They approached lion and he too agreed. The four of them went off hunting.

The hunting party came across a buffalo. The fox and wolf chased the buffalo. The bear intercepted the buffalo. The lion killed him.

The fox made shares out of the buffalo.

When they were about to take their shares the lion roared and said, “Well friends, the first share is mine for my leadership.

By Grammar G.

T

I would not be too wise--so very wise That I must sneer at simple songs and creeds, And let the glare of wisdom blind my eyes To humble people and their humble needs.

The second share is mine for it is I who killed. The third share is also mine for I need it for my cubs.

Anyone who needs a share can take the fourth. But be-

fore that you will have to fight and beat me.”

All the other three animals left the place without a single word.

Rules of language

here are rules to follow in the English language. In the English language, there are exceptions to every rule.

Let’s look at a few: Plurals are not always about adding “s”.

Consider the following – whose singular form appears first – syllabus / syllabi; nucleus /nuclei.

Or criterion /criteria, and ox /oxen. Also seraph/seraphim; tableau / tableaux; die / dice.

Then there are plurals that break the rules such as some words that end with “o” that don’t pluralize with “es” (i.e. mosquito/mosquitoes; tomato/tomatoes). Think of: memo /memos and cello / cellos.

Then there are the apparently random plurals where knife become knives but a fife (musical instrument) in its plural is fifes. In addition, roof can become roofs but definitely not “rooves”, yet one can easily say hoof becomes hoofs or hooves…

Other “irregular” plurals are very common: goose/ geese but mongoose / mongooses.

Then there is singular man /plural m e n ; woman/ women but human / humans not “hu-

I would not care to climb so high that I Could never hear the children at their play, Could only see the people passing by, And never hear the cheering words they say.

I would not know too much-too much to smile At trivial errors of the heart and hand, Nor be too proud to play the friend the while, Nor cease to help and know and understand.

I would not care to sit upon a throne, Or build my house upon a mountain-top, Where I must dwell in glory all alone And never friend come in or poor man stop.

God grant that I may live upon this earth And face the tasks which every morning brings And never lose the glory and the worth Of humble service and the simple things.

--- Edgar A. Guest men”.

Some singular words have no plural form (think deer, sheep or moose) while some plurals have no singular (alms, pliers, trousers).

How many other exceptions can you think of?

20 Sunday Times Magazine

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

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Times Sunday Puzzle

I

n the four sentences below, are two blanks.

You must fill them in with words that are anagrams, synonyms, antonyms, or homonyms. You can only use each of these once in each sentence. Can you figure out each word?

1. The golfer has yelled out "ÂŹÂŹ____," ____ times today.

2. They began to ____ scones, and drink ____.

3. She used one ____ to look down at her wrist and see her ____.

4. He ran ____ the dog in order ____ not get bitten by it. see ANSWERS on page 23

see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

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Sunday Times Magazine

21

Times Kids

w

Creature Corner

T

he Amazon Horned Frog (Ceratophrys cornuta), also known as the Surinam Horned Frog, can be found in freshwater marshes and pools throughout the Amazon Basin, from Colombia to Brazil.

These very plump amphibians are said to achieve their enormous girth by being generally indiscriminate about what they eat. This terrestrial, nocturnal frog backs into leaf-litter so that only the head is visible, and in this position it waits for passing prey.

They are aggressively territorial and voracious to a fault. Some have been found

dead in the wild with the remains of an impossible-to-ingest victim still protruding from their mouths.

Their ravenous appetite and huge mouths have earned them and other horned frogs the pet-trade nickname "Pac Man frogs."

Scientists are unsure what purpose their namesake horns serve, but it is likely they aid in camouflage, resembling leaf stems in the wild.

According to National Geographic, some Amazon villagers wear high leather boots to repel attacks by the Amazon horned frog.

Colouring Fun

GEOZONE

W

hen you think of a beach and the colour red you’d assume it’s a beach of red sand. But you’d be wrong. Red Beach, in Panjin, China, is the world's largest and best preserved wetland, situated off an estuary in the Liaoning Province, north-eastern China.

Every autumn, the seepweed, also known as seablite, which grows lush and green along its shores, takes on a crimson hue as it matures. The result is a beach of red as far as the eye can see.

Spanning more than 51 square miles of coastal land, the entire wetland is considered a protected area, home to more than 260 varieties of birds, and around 400 species of wildlife.

The location of the beach on the coast means the soil is extremely saline, which is the perfect condition for seepweed to thrive. In contrast, other plants cannot survive because the salt levels in the soil are too high. This helps seepweed to dominate the beach.

Word Search Find the Hidden Words

Sports Word Jumble Unscramble the words below and see if your favourite sport is here

Please see solution on page 23

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

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FEBRUARY 5, 2017

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Sunday Times Magazine 23

Times World

NASA to explore asteroid containing enough mineral wealth to collapse global economy

Asteroid mining may be a reality by 2025 says space.com

T

hough most asteroids are hunks of rock or ice, some are replete with iron, platinum, gold, and other precious minerals.

Two NASA missions plan to explore such an asteroid, scheduled for 2021 and 2023. These are part of NASA’s Discovery Program, a class of mission considered inexpensive, capping out at

US$450 million apiece.

Besides the scientific value, such explorations are on the brink of launching an entire new industry.

Elkins-Tanton has estimated the value of the asteroid’s iron content alone at approximately US$10,000 quadrillion. That’s to say nothing of the gold, copper, and platinum to be found.

The value of this asteroid alone could wipe out global debt, US$60 trillion, and leave enough left over to give every human on the planet a comfortable lifestyle, or conversely, cause the collapse of the world economy and send us hurtling back to the Dark Ages.

Private companies are already lining up to mine asteroids, and the US Congress has passed The Asteroid Act to codify the practice. Nearly 10,000 asteroids nearby Earth have startling mineral potential.

As the expansion of smartphones, computers, and other technologies continues, globally, the demand for such minerals will only become greater and make the lure of asteroid mining much more powerful.

Some parts of body 'alive' after death: Study E ven after someone is declared dead, life continues in the body, suggests a surprising new study with important implications.

Gene expression — when information stored in DNA is converted into instructions for making proteins or other molecules — actually increases in some cases after death, according to the new paper, which tracked post-mortem activity and is published in the journal Open Biology.

"Not all cells are 'dead' when an organism dies," senior author Peter Noble of the University of Washington and Alabama State University said. "Different cell types have different life spans, generation times and resilience to extreme stress."

In fact, some cells seem to fight to live after the organism has died.

"It is likely that some cells remain alive and are attempting to repair themselves, specifically stem cells," Noble said.

The international team of scientists, led

by Alex Pozhitkov, studied zebrafish and mice and believe that the phenomenon oc-

curs in all animals, including humans.

Gene transcription — the first step of gene expression, where a segment of DNA is copied into RNA — associated with stress, immunity, inflammation, cancer and other factors increased after death. And this could happen within hours or even days after the individual as a whole was declared dead.

Interestingly, gene transcription linked to embryonic development also increased.

It's as though parts of the body essentially go back in time, exhibiting cellular characteristics of very early human development.

The researchers identified a "step-wise shutdown" after death where some gene transcriptions diminished while others became more abundant. While the precise steps have yet to be defined, the scientists do not believe the process is random.

The authors referred to the window of time between "death and the start of decomposition as the 'twilight of death' — when gene expression occurs, but not all of the cells are dead yet.”

Saudi prince buys plane seats to transport falcons

Brain Teaser Answer 1. The golfer has yelled out "FORE," FOUR times today. (homonyms) 2. They began to EAT scones, and drink TEA. (Anagrams) 3. She used one EYE to look down at her wrist and see her WATCH. (Synonyms) 4. He ran FROM the dog in order TO not get bitten by it. (Antonyms)

SUDOKU

KID SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

A

Saudi prince recently bought tickets of a passenger jet for his 80 falcons, according to media reports.

A picture posted on Reddit has gone viral that shows a flock of blindfolded falcons seated on a plane around the cabin among passengers, each bird seemingly tied securely to the seats.

Reddit user Lensoo posted it online, writing “my captain friend sent me this photo. Saudi prince bought ticket for his 80 hawks,” the Khaleej Times reported.

Transportation of falcons, the national bird of the UAE, is not a rare practice in the Middle East. Many airlines, including Eithad, Emirates and Qatar, allow a certain number of pet falcons in the cabin or in checked luggage.

In fact, so many birds fly in airplanes that the UAE government reportedly issued 28,000 falcon passports between 2002 and 2013, Gulf News reported.

Lufthansa have gone one step further to accommodate super-rich passengers and created a patented bird stand that allows travellers to keep their falcons nearby during the flight, according to Traveller website.

The Times of India notes that a similar case was reported in 2014.

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Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

Fun Times

Archie

ARIES You must take time to (March 21- pamper yourself and rest up April 19) for what lies ahead. Feeling good about your appearance will give you the boost you need to take chances and succeed.

Hidden matters will be TAURUS revealed if you are too open (April 20- about your past or personMay 20) al plans. Protect your reputation and position. Offer to help others instead of displaying your vulnerabilities.

Making personal gains, upGEMINI dating your appearance and (May 21having passionate encounters June 20) will make your day something special. Positive change is within reach, and being emotionally open will speed up the process.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

Too much of anything will lead to disaster. Engaging in excessive behavior or making unrealistic promises will be imprudent. Moderation and good sense will help you reach your creative goals.

Send out your resume or start your own small business. A day trip will rejuvenate you and help you discard any threat of leading a dull, routine life.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Good fortune is within reach. Explore new possibilities, but don’t consider a joint venture. You will do best if you go it alone. Personal improvements are favored.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Don’t swim upstream.

Getting along with people and finding ways to accommodate both your needs and the needs of others will put you in a good position.

Romance is highlighted.

Keep an open mind, but SCORPIO don’t cave under pressure.

(Oct. 24You have to do what’s right Nov. 22) for you, even if it’s at the expense of someone else.

Follow your heart.

You should stick close to SAGITTARIUS home today. Travel or dealing (Nov. 23with people who have ulterior Dec. 21) motives will lead to frustration and dead-ends. Physical exercise and a nutritious diet will improve your health and appearance.

Calvin and Hobbes

You need to keep your life CAPRICORN simple and moderate. Use (Dec. 22- your intuition to help you Jan. 19) avoid getting involved with people who lack discretion or tend to be hotheaded. Do your own thing and prosper.

If you take an energetAQUARIUS ic, enthusiastic approach (Jan. 20- to life and what you want Feb. 19) to accomplish, you won’t be disappointed. Love is in the stars, and positive changes can be made.

Emotional deception PISCES (Feb. 20- can set you back. Be honMar. 20) est with yourself about what has transpired and the part you’ve played, instead of living in denial or walking away.

Truth and honesty rule.