Sunday times magazine 24 december 2017

December 24, 2017

Star Times Hollywood:

Oprah warns fans of internet scammers using her name Page 14 FREE DISTRIBUTION

Page 3

Guyana’s antique Disney-themed stamps celebrate the magic of the festive season

INSIDE

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Sorrel: An Page 5 interesting look at its origin and health benefits

Origin of Black Cake Page 7

2 Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Feature

G

ive Another Chance Foundation (GACF) is a non-profit, nongovernmental organisation registered in Guyana, with more than eight years of giv-

ing back to the society.

Its staff spans a range of disciplines from the social sciences, public policy, technology, and the creative arts. This interdisciplinary

team collaborates to bring cross-disciplinary insights to a future that combine complex challenges and require unconventional perspectives.

The Board of Directors is committed to the financial, operational, and intellectual vitality of the organisation. From the earliest days, the Board has collaborated

Spreading Christmas cheer

with management to evolve the organisation’s mission, resources, and administrative practices to meet the demands of a changing world.

Give Another Chance Foundation works in rural and outskirt urban communities of Guyana. These areas are known for high levels of poverty and low levels of educational achievement.

The Foundation works on self-reliant projects where its education programmes

whether you are addressing healthcare, poverty, population control, unemployment or human rights, there is no better place to start than in the corridors of education.

Give Another Chance Foundation works with girls and boys in rural communities of Guyana to ensure they are able to learn the skills and gain the knowledge that will help them break out of poverty and secure their future with an

The community of Baramita, North West District, received a basketball court, a collaboration between GACF and Mr. Thakur of the Atlantic Mining Company

focus not just on access, but on attainment – ensuring vulnerable children have the right infrastructure, resources, teaching and parental support in order to have a quality education, and go on to lead productive, happy lives. This is complemented by the Foundation’s livelihood programmes that work to create secure incomes.

The organisation also helps to improve agricultural practices and market awareness for farming communities.

GACF’s goals are to improve children’s lives by creating a social movement that delivers effective health, education, nutritional programmes; to give children an opportunity to realise their own personal achievement whether academically, artistically or within the realms of sports; and to promote peace, justice, understanding and friendly relations between the people of Guyana and people of the nations.

The organisation is committed to providing basic education from pre-school to university, and healthcare to underprivileged children in rural and urban communities. It believes that

After School Teaching programme.

Laying the foundations for learning, the organisation focuses on delivering quality early learning programmes. It ensures children get the best education at primary level, focusing on math, literacy, sciences, health, agriculture, critical thinking and more.

Notably, the Foundation works with men and women in rural communities to ensure they are able to earn a living, support their children’s education and have enough food to feed their families.

The Foundation helps communities find long-term solutions to poverty through innovative education and livelihood projects, which empower an individual to earn a livelihood. Its goal is to increase awareness on a range of issues – from healthcare to appropriate social behaviour to understanding one's rights, and in the process help persons become better citizens.

Visit Give Another Chance Foundation on Facebook to see all the good work it has been doing throughout the years.

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

3

Feature

Guyana’s antique Disney-themed stamps celebrate the magic of the festive season

By Ann Wood

G

uyana and several countries have issued many stamps depicting Disney characters in scenes from animated Walt Disney films, celebrating Christmas or Easter, marking important anniversaries, commemorating the Olympic Games, visiting other countries, and saluting famous people.

Disney themed stamps are appealing to children and to the millions of Mickey Mouse and other Disney character enthusiasts.

There are tens of thousands of Disney stamps collectors as it is one of the most popular themes in stamp collecting. In addition, no matter what other topic you may collect, there are probably Disney stamps within it.

Disney themes on stamps started in 1968 (U.S.), 1970 (San Marino), 1972 (Fujeira and Sharjah) and 1991

(Guyana).

Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1901, Walt Disney created some of the most famous cartoon characters in history and received many honours during his life and after his death. One of these honours was a United States commemorative postage stamp issued on September 11, 1968. It was Americas’ first Disney stamp and commemorated Walt's contributions to America and the world. The stamp depicted his portrait with designs in the background of children of the world emerging from Sleeping Beauty’s castle.

The “First Day of Issue” ceremony was held in Marceline, Missouri, as Walt grew up on a farm in that rural town. The Main Street of Disneyland was recreated by Walt to memorialize Main Street, Marceline, Missouri, a town Walt viewed as the ideal community. Almost a million first

day covers were cancelled in Marceline and over 150 million Disney stamps were purchased at U.S. post offices during the next ten days.

In August 23, 2004, the post office in Marceline, where Walt’s 1968 postal tribute was first issued, was renamed “The Walt Disney Post Office”.

Topical collecting, such as Disney stamps, stimulates the interest in the hobby of stamp collecting.

They inspire both the young and old with the variety of topics and bright colours.

However, general collectors continue to seek stamps which depict their interest.

To order the special Walt Disney Post Office Postmark, affix a US$1.15 stamp to envelopes of your choice, address the envelopes to yourself or others, and place them in a larger envelope addressed to: Walt Disney Post Office Postmark

Stamp showing 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' celebrating Christmas

Various Disney characters displayed on Guyana stamps

'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' collection

to help stamp collectors with mation on stamp collection.

Postmaster advice on all aspects of col- (Cover photo: A Disney clas120 E. Ritchie Ave. Marceline, MO 64658- lecting. Visit www.guyana- sic, 'Snow White and the stamps.com for more infor- Seven Dwarfs') 9998 Ann Wood is president of the Guyana Philatelic Society.

The members of the Guyana Philatelic Society are people from all walks of life who collect new issues from Guyana to those who have only very limited stamp budgets. But above all, the stamp club offers the friendship, knowledge and experience of its members The lovable Disney character, Pluto, featured on one of the stamps who are there

Mickey Mouse Guyana stamp

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Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Feature

By Peter Halder

T

he observation and celebration of Christmas in Guyana dates back to the 17th century. It began, circa 1627, among the Dutch immigrants who had established permanent settlements in Essequibo. The celebration later spread to Berbice in 1627 and then Demerara in 1746.

The counties of Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice, which subsequently became British as a result of European wars, were merged in 1831 and became British Guiana.

In the new British colony, the largest ethnic population were African slaves captured by British and Dutch slave ships and brought to Guyana to work on colonial sugar plantations.

Christmas was a popular season during the slavery era for most of the population except the Amerindians who lived in scattered communities in the hinterland observed and celebrated their

own tribal festivals totally unrelated to Christianity.

It was peculiar at that time that while Christmas was about the birth of Christ, for a long while, little religious emphasis was placed on it. The few churches which were in Essequibo, Berbice, and Demerara in the 17th century held no Christmas services on December 25 or on Boxing Day, December 26.

The religious observation and celebration of Christmas may be linked to the coming of the Rev John Wray. In 1810, the London Missionary Society, a Protestant body, sent him to Guyana. He set up a mission for slaves at Plantation Le Ressouvenir, a large cotton estate on the East Coast of Demerara. A church building was constructed and was named Bethel Chapel. It had a congregation of some 600 people.

Rev John Wray launched the religious observation of the Christian festival of Christmas at his church.

Guyana's Christmas stamps dated 1967

Church sermons featured the birth and life of Jesus Christ. An added feature was baptisms and marriages on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. The popularity of the Christmas services and their added attractions gave the slaves forbearance to their miserable lives, remembering how Jesus Christ was beaten and crucified on the cross. Christmas

celebrations quickly spread throughout the country and was popularly known as “the Season of Festivity”. From then to today, Guyanese extend to family, friends and anyone “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy Festive Season”.

Christmas and the Christmas season were celebrated not only by the African slaves but by their white masters as well, each in their own way. The occasion expanded from just religious services to family parties and get-togethers on Christmas and Boxing Day. Special lunches and dinners for families and friends

translated into feasting and drinking which remains the culture until this day.

The whole country became a moving scene of feasting, drinking, dancing and gaiety. Cheerful groups traversed the lanes and paths in villages dressed in gaudy trappings, hair cut and fashioned in a variety of shapes, some decorated with beads, bits of ribbons and tinsel ornaments. They were accompanied by drumbeat and singing. Some wore wigs.

Christmas also became a time for gift giving. It perhaps was initiated by the white gentry who shared

out clothing, food items and drinks, including alcohol, to their slaves and at the same time wishing them a “Merry Christmas”. The slaves accepted the gifts for what they were worth but never forgot the whip lashes they received or expected in the future from their masters.

But inspired by the idea and the Christian charity of it all, slaves also began to give gifts of whatever they could afford to their immediate families. And so gift giving became consonant with the Christmas Season. (https://peterhalder.wordpress.com)

Main Street beautifully illuminated in the year 1953 (Wayne McWatt photo)

Children infront of a banner titled 'Father Christmas at Uncle Vivian (Ace Advertisers Robb and King Sts)' n.d.

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Feature

Tasty glass of sorrel drink

H

Sorrel plants

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

The sorrel plant is an annual shrub, normally planted in August and reaching maturity in December. After flowering, the sorrel petals fall of leaving the sepals (fruit) and these become enlarged and turn crimson as they mature. A beverage made from the fruit of the sorrel plant is made by steeping the sepal in hot water with ginger for about 24 hours. It is then decanted and sugar is added and rum, if desired.

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

ni (where the plant itself is called da).

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

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

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

mous Essiac tea.

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

For digestive health, the high content of dietary fibre that can be found in most varieties of sorrel mean that your digestive health can be improved by adding these leaves to your soups and salads. Dietary fibre adds bulk to food as it moves through the digestive system, improving your gastrointestinal health and reducing conditions like constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, and cramping, as well as more serious gastrointestinal issues. Dietary fibre can also help to reduce total cholesterol in the body, thereby protecting heart health and reducing chances of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

Also, sorrel has a very significant level of potassium (1 cup contains 15 per cent of your daily recommended intake), which is an essential mineral for human health. Potassium is a vasodilator, as well as being instrumental in maintaining fluid balance throughout the body. This means that potassium reduces the stress on the cardiovascular system by relaxing the blood vessels and arteries. Lowered blood pressure reduces the chances of dangerous clotting and excessive strain on the heart that can lead to coronary heart disease and other complications.

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

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

Crimson sepals used to make the drink

tal sense.

Vitamin C content in sorrel is impressive (a single cup of sorrel contains 106 percent of your daily recommended intake), which means that your immune system can be optimized and brought up to full strength when you add this to your diet. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, stimulates the immune system and increases the white blood cell count in the body, which is the first line of defence against pathogens and other foreign invaders in the body.

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

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

6 Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Literary Corner

Preserving our literary heritage by Petamber Persaud

This is a Good Time to Reach for A. J. Seymour A

rthur James Seymour ly rapid and dramatic change…He was an died on Christmas ubiquitous poet. He sang on all the themes – the beauty of nature, day of 1989. the cruelty of man, the fickleHe was a dev o t e d ness of fate, the kindness of Christian, good homes, the draevidenced mas of everyday life, especially in the sagas of history, the glory of women, a large volthe greatness of God”. ume of his His poetry, essays, writing given over to autobiographies and Christianother genres of writing effectively mapped based pothe course of his life etry; in esand the history of sence, he the development of a was one of Guyana’s Guyanese literature. most prolific Such a map includes gems like “Introduction religious poto Guyanese Writing”; ets.

“The Making of So this Guyanese Literature”; Christmas, it is a good and all his autobitime to reach ographical books: “Growing up in Guyana”, for Seymour “Pilgrim Memories”, who invoked, “Family Impromptu”, in his poet“Thirty Years a Civil ry, the birth, life, death Servant” and “The and more Years in Puerto Rico and particularMackenzie”. His books of literary criticism like “A ly the resCollected poems by Seymour Survey of West Indian urrection Literature” and “Studies of Christ – the essential tenet of Christianity. in West Indian Poetry” helped to define a Apart from his religious leanings, Caribbean literature. A bibliography of his Seymour has touched on many other mean- writing compiled by the National Library ingful aspects of life which gives us enough was 100 pages long! That was in 1974, alreasons to reach for Seymour at this time of most 40 years ago. A matter of immense interest is that almost all his books were pubthe year.

Ian McDonald in his introduction to “A. lished locally.

J. Seymour: Collected Poems 1937-1989”, Inset in one of those maps is the followedited by McDonald and J. de Weever, sums ing poem taken from the collection “Song to up Seymour this way: “[w]e are speaking of Man” published in 1973.

Now experience Seymour’s impression a body of work that stretches from 1936 to 1989. The poetry, therefore, not only ranges of Christmas in Georgetown some four deover the various stages of a man’s life from cades ago. extreme youth to old age but also traversComposition in December In my fabulous December/Shinning eyes es the different stages of a nation’s and a people’s development in a time of especial- of children

T

wo little children were sitting by the fire one cold winter's night. All at once they heard a timid knock at the door, and one ran to open it.

There, outside in the cold and the darkness, stood a child with no shoes upon his feet and clad in thin, ragged garments. He was shivering with cold, and he asked to come in and warm himself.

"Yes, come," cried both the children; "you shall have our place by the fire.

Come in!"

They drew the little stranger to their warm seat and shared their supper with him, and gave him their bed, while they slept on a hard bench.

In the night they were awakened by strains of sweet music and, looking out, they saw a band of children in shining garments approaching the house. They were playing

Grasping the toy-happy season/Tight in their little fists…

Groups of laughing boys/Dash pell-mell in their yachtings Chasing along crowded pavements…

Limber girls/ Flaunt their shapely banners…

Along the avenue/Under a floating cloud of hair Fabulous Monument/ of the Cathedral,/ after the sun Withdraws its white stare/Listens to the vespers When advent doves/Twitter/ High in the gloomy rafters Of its brain O death has no place here /Only laughter…

I discover crystal raindrops/Floatfalling/ On the heavy rhythmic cars/Lurching/ Around the War Memorial

A tiger moth/With wondering benediction, In its wings/ Flaps slowly/From the saman trees/To condemn hysteria…

What’s happening: Over GYD$1,000,000 in prize money up for grabs in the 2018 issue of The Guyana Annual. New closing date for entries to the various competitions is January 15, 2018.

For further information go to The Guyana Annual on Facebook or email: theguyanaannual@gmail.com

And moss sleeps/On a stone…

On the centenary of his birth anniversary (January 12, 2014), Seymour was inducted into the National Library Hall of Fame for the Literary Arts.

Note: Today’s article title is inspired by Rupert Roopnaraine’s essay on Martin Carter, “This is a good time to reach for Martin”.

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

on golden harps, and the air was full of melody.

Suddenly the Stranger Child stood before them; no longer cold and ragged, but clad in silvery light.

His soft voice said: "I was cold and you took Me in. I was hungry, and you fed Me. I was tired, and you gave Me your bed. I am the Christ Child, wandering through the world to bring peace and happiness to all good children. As you have given to Me, so may this tree every year give rich fruit to you."

So saying, He broke a branch from the fir tree that grew near the door, and He planted it in the ground and disappeared.

But the branch grew into a great tree, and every year it bore wonderful golden fruit for the kind children. (By Lucy Wheelock, from "For the Children's Hour," by Bailey and Lewis)

Notice to Readers

A. J. Seymour

If you have a poem and/or short story you would like to publish on our Literary Corner page, please email to guyanatimes@gmail.com. Kindly include your correct name and a contact number in your email. If you have any questions, please call 223-7230 or 223-7231.

Joyful Christmas Day is almost here

By Dmitri Allicock

Christ’s birth rejoiced with feelings so dear Melodious carols praises the season with delight Stardust illuminates with colourful flickering lights Behold all things are softer and beautiful Pepper pot, garlic pork, black cake so tasteful Rekindled closeness of family and nostalgic festivity Glorified saviour of mankind and Sacred Nativity Beaming children, Father Christmas of happiest times Early church services and distant bells chime Childhood innocence with spirit of rebirth Guyana’s best and hopes for peace on this earth Homes replenished, Christmas tree decorated so well Ham and eggs, fresh bread with ecstatic spell Whistle and drums of dancing Masquerade strumming Mother Sally and Wild Cow are coming Packed airplanes headed home with memories so fine Hoping to enjoy preciousness and perhaps some wine Sorrel or ginger beer, cookup rice and the best dishes A jolly season to celebrate with cheers and wishes

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Feature

I

n Caribbean culture, to give a whole homebaked black cake as a gift is a sign of great affection and intimacy. But have you ever thought about the origin of black cake?

According to Guyanese historian Sushima Naraine, who resides in Canada, black cake is the Caribbean version of the British dessert plum pudding, but with “some slight Caribbeanesque changes(hence the rum)”.

Food and Cooking in Victorian England: A History stated: “Banned by

the Puritans in the 1660s for its rich ingredients, the [plum] pudding and its customs came back into popularity during the reign of George I. Known sometimes as the Pudding King, George I requested that plum pudding be served as part of his royal feast when he celebrated his first Christmas in England after arriving from Hanover to take the throne in 1714.

By 1740, a recipe for ‘plum porridge’ appeared in Christmas Entertainments.

In the Victorian era, Christmas annuals, maga-

zines, and cookbooks celebrated the sanctity of family as much as the sanctity of Jesus’ birth, and the tradition of all family members stirring the pudding was often referenced…

Poorer families made the riches version of plum pudding that they could afford…Even workhouse inmates anticipated a plum pudding on Christmas Day.” Andrea Broomfield [Praeger:Westport CT] 2007 (p. 150-151) “While Christian missionaries made their ways through Caribbean commuBritish Christmas pudding

Slice of Guyanese black cake

'The Empire Christmas Pudding', artwork by F C Harrison produced for the Empire Marketing Board

nities, they left an indelible mark in the foods that continue to be a staple of the Caribbean diet. Plum pudding is but one example of the remaining British presence throughout.

“It’s impossible to have a Christmas without black cake especially because many people gift these cakes to each other. As well, it’s common for everyone in the family to get involved in the actual baking process. Dad might be in charge of soaking the fruits in the rum, while mom takes care of mixing the ingredients. All the children – if they can be trusted with this task – would be involved in mixing the icing.

The prep for baking black cakes is time-consuming, but the results are always

amazing. As well, because of the concentration of rum these cakes can last for a really long time – my family keeps black cake on the kitchen counter for months afterwards…”

Sushima noted.

Interestingly, the cake went by another name the Empire Christmas pudding. This dessert was a staple of the British Empire and, of course, a special cake made and eaten during the Christmas holidays.

It gained popularity during the Victorian era when chefs were able to preserve fruits from summer and use them during the winter.

“The Empire Christmas Pudding”, an artwork by F C Harrison produced for the Empire Marketing Board, is a recipe from 1926-1939

showing various ingredients being sourced from different countries, including sugar and rum from British Guiana.

English cakes were soaked in liquor to preserve them on sea voyages.

But according to Jessica B. Harris, a culinary historian, black cake's Caribbean character is found in the rum (British cakes usually use brandy) and in the cake's intensely dark colour.

Black cake reflects the British presence in the Caribbean. The brown sugar, molasses and rum are reminders that it was the quest for sugar, and the slave labour that harvested it, that kept British colonialists in the islands.

Illuminated City Hall in 1953 (Wayne McWatt photo)

8 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 24, 2017

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Travel and Tourism

A section of Kingston, Georgetown (Tiltshift. Amanda Richards's photo)

The Essequibo River as it snakes its way through thick vegetation

Spectacular view of the Harbour Bridge (Photo by Amanda Richards)

Yachts at Baganara Island, Essequibo (Photo by Guyana Tourism Authority)

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DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Health

T

here are many fine Christmas traditions, but being healthy is not one of them.

"The average person consumes around 6,000 calories on Christmas day," says Luise Marino, paediatric dietitian and author of Momentums e-cook-book.

"That's enough food for a woman for three days!"

And most people don't just over-eat on Christmas day. Those left-overs can last for days.

"Weight gain over Christmas is common," says Luise. "Come January, though, it can be difficult to shift."

According to the British Dietetic Association (BDA) people gain 2kg (4.4lbs), on average, over Christmas.

A lot of people say, well it's just once a year. What does it matter if I let my hair down? "But don't use it as an excuse," says Sian Porter, a dietitian and spokesperson for the BDA. "At this time of year, it's easy to hide under your [clothing] and ignore what's going on underneath them."

One way of not letting the eating get out of control, says Sian, is to stick to usual meal times.

Start with a healthy breakfast, preferably one that is going to keep you full

for a while, such as porridge oats. That way you won't be tempted to dip into the snacks as much.

Nibbles

The calories in snacks can quickly mount up. A single meat pie packs about 250 calories. A couple of those are equivalent to a quarter of the guideline daily calorie intake for a woman or a fifth of the calorie intake for a man.

"Why not use fresh vegetables with low fat dips instead, and rather than putting out chips, offer bowls of popcorn," says Luise.

Nuts and dates also make healthy snacks.

Bird is the word

However, snacks are just a side-show. The main event is Christmas dinner and although it's never going to be a low calorie affair, there are ways of making it a healthier meal.

First of all, there's the bird.

"Whatever bird you choose to cook—be that duck, chicken, goose or turkey—they all are rich in protein and fat-soluble vitamins, which are essential for muscle repair and neuron function," says Abigail

E

very year thousands of people across the world suffer from Christmas stress. No, Christmas stress is not a medical term. However, every year thousands of people find themselves suffering from an insurmountable amount of stress during, and leading up to Christmas.

For some people, the seemingly endless holiday to-do lists is what triggers their seasonal anxieties. While other people blame the gift giving demands and family expectations for their stress. There are other reasons as to why people find themselves more stressed out during Christmas than any other time of year such as: loneliness, divorce, grief and or toxic relatives.

However, to manage the onset of Christmas stress it's important to recognize the signs so that you can know what to do if and when and it happens to you.

How to Prevent Christmas Stress

One of the best ways to prevent Christmas stress is to set clear boundaries both for you and for others. Try your best not to take on more than you can handle such as: cooking, holiday shopping or gift wrapping. Enlist support from your family, friends and loved ones.

There is nothing wrong with asking the people you love for help. This support can be prac-

Wilson, director of eDietitians. "Of these, turkey is the leaner meat and possibly the healthier option with significantly less fat than duck or goose."

Before cooking, Luise recommends pricking the

tical or emotional but it really helps to spread the load and to ensure that other people are aware of your needs.

Simply expressing your needs to the people closest to you can make all the difference.

Not only will it help you minimize your stress levels, but it will also bring you and your family closer. The alternative is not saying anything, which will only bring about more stress and more resentment.

Ways to Help You Manage Your Christmas Stress

Christmas is one of those holidays where everyone is expected to be happy and in a celebratory mood. However the reality is that the holiday season, particularly Christmas often brings about unwelcome guests, financial strain, and showing up for parties and events when you'd rather stay at home.

Fortunately there are several things you can do to alleviate some of the holiday pressure: Exercise in either a gentle form. Or try a more vigorous exercise such as jogging, both have been shown to be effective when dealing with stress.

Yoga has been known to be an excellent antidote to stress and anxiety. The physical and mental discipline yoga offers

skin of the bird so that fat can drain out.

If you're a vegetarian, you might want to consider a nut roast, says Abigail.

Aside from being rich in healthy unsaturated fats, nuts are also a good source of protein, fibre and a host of micronutrients, including folic acid, niacin, calcium, magnesium and potassium.

They also contain phytosterols which help to lower cholesterol.

Although nuts are a calorie-dense food a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine f o u n d that people who regularly eat nuts are slimmer than those who don't eat nuts. More importantly, the researchers found that people who ate a daily handful of nuts were 20% less likely to die, from any cause, over a 30year period than people who don't regularly eat nuts.

helps you to relax thereby allowing the body to de-stress.

Meditation has also been proven to minimize stress. The idea is that as you focus your attention on your breathing, your body begins to relax, thereby allowing you to gain control of your thoughts. When you become aware of your thoughts you can control what you think.

So, if you find yourself spiraling out of control, stop and begin meditating.

Visualization and imagery is another way to dramatically diminish stress and anxiety, particularly in anxiety prone individuals. The idea is that you focus your at-

"People often eat the most vegetables in the week when they have a roast, so Christmas dinner is an ideal time for eating lots of veg," says Sian.

But make sure they're cooked healthily.

"When you cook your veggies, cook them in the minimum amount of time with the minimum amount of water," says Sian. "And use the cooking water to make gravy with, because then it's like eating soup. You get all the goodness out of it."

For roast potatoes, use a non-stick baking tray and lightly spray the potatoes with oil.

If you're using fresh vegetables, make sure you store them in a cool, dark place because sunlight and warm temperatures can affect the nutrients, and don't snub frozen vegetables. They're often every bit as nutritious as fresh vegetables.

Even dessert doesn't have to be unhealthy.

"If you're having something rich and creamy, have an alternative," says Sian.

"You can make a big bowl of fruit salad so that people have an option."

Stay active

With all that eating, the inactivity sets in, but don't be tempted by the sofa, you might stay there until bed-

tention on something else such as relaxing on a sandy beach whenever you feel stressed.

Thus you are tricking your mind to be somewhere else even when you are not.

All of the techniques above will help you create the space and time you will need to get through the Christmas season stress free. However in order for any of these techniques to work, it's important for you be mindful of your stress levels.

That said, do keep your expectations low for the holidays. Too

o f t e n peo-

time.

"Try and get out and about to blow the cobwebs away," says Sian. "It's really important that they remember to be physically active as well."

That doesn't mean you have to do a Zumba class on Boxing Day. A walk shortly after a meal is a good way to stay healthy.

A study by researchers at George Washington University in the US found that taking a 15 minute stroll half an hour after eating helps to control high blood sugar in elderly people and could reduce their risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

Most people take a nap or watch television after a big meal, but that's the worst thing you can do, says, Loretta DiPietro, the person who led the study. "Let the food digest a bit and then get out and move," she advises.

…but don't forget to have fun!

"Christmas is fun, it's enjoyable, so go for it," says Sian. "But definitely don't make it go on and on and on.

Enjoy the day, but then it's business as usual."

Luise advises an "80:20 approach", where 80% of the time you are good and 20% of the time you indulge a little. (WebMD)

ple set their Christmas expectations so high that they become stressed out just thinking about all the plans they made.

Letting go of the belief that Christmas has to be perfect will immediately help to diminish the weight of your expectations.

That means even when someone in your family is not behaving like an angel, the turkey refuses to cook, or the store just ran out of that perfect gift you picked out for your husband or wife, you will be able to handle it.

Managing your Christmas stress is all about eliminating the things that create emotional, mental or emotions stress.

And, when you keep your holiday expectations in check, you are more likely to create a merry Christmas that ends stress free. (HuffPost)

10 Sunday Times Magazine Fashion

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

F

R

ed seems to be a hit this season. But with these tips and tricks, there's no better time to go all out and dress up in varying tones of cherry, scarlet, cranberry, and crimson.

Invest in a long maxi dress that does all the work for you.

If you do want to make your look feel festive, opting for velvet and accessorizing with gold jewellery will do the trick.

Accent your varying shades of red with dark accessories on the top and bottom.

While an abundance of red separates might give off "extreme" vibes, swinging your crossbody bag over the shoulder and going hands free will keep your look relaxed.

or starters, you want to know how to shop for an affordable suit. Avoid shiny synthetic fibers, for instance, and stick with the mass-market retailers that make an effort to offer quality fabrics and modern cuts. Here are a few tricks you can use once you buy the suit to make it look a little nicer. Master these moves and you might even find yourself wearing a suit without being asked to.

Take in the sleeves

You want a narrow, tapered sleeve that hugs, not hangs off your arms, while giving you enough range of motion to do what needs to be done.

This also goes for the pants.

Baggy looks untidy; tailored is elegant… sexy.

Show a sliver of skin at the midriff, then offset your look with one unexpected accessory in a powdery hue.

Try achieving the look with a pair of tights.

This style move will elongate your frame, especially when you're wearing heels.

Replace the buttons

Cheap suits tend to come with flimsy shiny plastic buttons that are easily broken or lost during a particularly hectic work day.

While you’re at the tailor, ask him or her to replace the buttons with genuine horn. Simple, but worth it.

Add a cuff at the ankle

Not only should your tailor give your trousers a slim, tapered leg and that has virtually no break at the hem, but you can also ask him or her to add a 1.5” cuff while they’re at it. It’s a detail you don’t often see on budget suits, so by default it looks expensive.

Try monochromatic styling

For a festive touch, swipe on a red lip and slip into green pumps, instead of the expected red or white.

Finish with expensive shoes

Cheaping out on every element in your look makes the job of looking great that much more difficult. If you invest in one thing (other than tailoring) make it a pair of sturdy, bench-made dress shoes that you can wear over and over—and over again.

Working within a limited palette when selecting your shirt, tie and shoes is a modern move that tends to make the fabric of your suit look richer and finer. Switch up the colours and patterns ever so slightly with each piece to create depth.

Add one item like a pocket square or soft briefcase from a totally different colour family.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Recipe of the week

Ingredients:

18 chicken wings 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne Cooking spray

Sauce:

Entertain in style this season with a festive centrepiece for your holiday table.

1 cup barbecue sauce, preferably Hickory Smoke Flavor 1⁄2 cup honey 2 tablespoons ketchup 2 tablespoons hot sauce 4 tablespoons butter 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder

Candy-inspired centrepiece: Perfect for a kids' table, this simple, shatterproof centrepiece is made from foam candy cane spheres, tree trimmings, red feathers and glittery plastic ornaments, all tucked inside a box.

Method: Wash, dry, and season the wings with the salt, garlic, pepper, cayenne, sugar, and paprika.

Preheat the oven to 375.

Butter/oil a baking pan, place wings in pan and then in the oven.

Cook for 35-40 minutes, depending on the size of the wings, turning once.

Ingredients:

5 potatoes 3 eggs Chopped celery 1/2 cup chopped onion

While they are baking, make the sauce by slowly simmering the sauce ingredients over the lowest heat.

When the wings are done baking, carefully dip them in the sauce, and place them back in the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling.

1/2 cup sweet pickle relish 1 tablespoon mustard ¼ cup mayonnaise Ground black pepper to taste Salt or vegetable cubes to taste

Golden candlestick holders add a classy touch to your table top; just decorate with some festive greenery.

Method:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, cool, peel and chop.

Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil; cover, remove

from heat, and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes.

Remove from hot water, cool, peel and chop.

In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, eggs, celery, onion, relish, mustard, salt, pepper and mayonnaise. Mix together well and refrigerate until chilled.

This simple, eye-catching display is perfect for a last-minute party. Pile glass ball ornaments on top of one another in a pyramid shape atop a cake stand. Hold them together using double-sided tape.

Layer garland with a collection of colourful ornaments in your favourite tray to create an irresistible holiday centrepiece.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

Puzzles

Crossword ACROSS

1 Thinnest coin

5 Fleetwood Mac singer

10 Gas thief's gizmo

16 Less exciting

21 Scholarly notation

22 Wry humor

23 Princess Leia - 24 Booster rocket 25 Turndowns

26 Spread sand or salt

27 Ad come-on

28 Electrical measure

29 Stated confidently

31 Pac-Man morsel

33 Lyre cousins

35 Derisive snort

36 Scallions' kin

37 Herds of whales

40 London lav

41 Wind into loops

42 W-2 info

45 Malaprop's title

46 Festive night

48 Hi-fi component

50 Sophisticated

52 Powder

54 Cannes cop

55 Eldest of the Pleiades

57 Weed 58 Crocks

59 Bad thing to rock

60 "Stormy Weather" singer

62 Outer garments

66 In charge of

67 Circus (2 wds.)

69 Breakfast nook

71 Scotty beamed him up

72 Future (hyph.)

74 Boston Bruin great

76 Napoleon's fate

78 Mauna -79 Gasps of delight

80 Abhors

83 Price of horror flicks

85 Early stages

88 Thirteen witches

89 Knee, perhaps

90 Dries lumber 93 Instants

95 It's often modified

97 Mav's foe

98 Ms. Zellweger

100 Spinks' defeater

101 Spring flowers

106 Fermi split it

108 Good brandy 110 Patron

112 Flapjack chain

113 Majestic

115 Lament loudly

116 Part of A.D.

117 Japanese mushroom

118 Secure a tent

120 Actress Tyne - 122 Forest browsers

123 Lodestone

124 Florida racetrack

128 Sprawl

129

130

131

132

133

135

137

139

140

142

144

148

150

153

155

156

157

158

159

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161

162

163

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6 7

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69 70

Dangerous curve Stockholm carrier Mdse.

Drama award Dull routine Term paper abbr. (2 wds.)

Buyer U.K. lexicon French clerics Woody's ex Clearly written Fuss with makeup Looked good on Parking attendant Man-goat deity Bus routes Still closed Wed impulsively "Kon- --" Large-billed raptor Saying Burn sandalwood Slide downhill DOWN Ms. Merrill Nigerian people (var.)

-- van der Rohe Famous lemon College exam Pond feeders Vacuums Financial mag Gave the once-over -- voce High dudgeon Nicklaus' org.

Leftovers dish NBA's Shaquille Cramped Prize marbles Turkish honorific Procedure Involve Without due thought Romulus and -Fuel cartel Tigger's pal Reservoir boundary Tiny Store employee Kind of pigeon Round of applause Poet -- Ginsberg On cloud nine Corleone patriarch Jigsaw components Loud argument Truckers' loads Eighty-day traveler Strong as -- -Flour holders Tel -Felt crummy Point of an antler Large aquarium fish Scrooge's oath D.C.'s river Whodunit poison Yale alumnus

73 75 77 81 82 84 85 86 87 91 92 93 94 95 96 99 102 103 104 105 107 109 111 114 117 119 121 122

Machine part Luxuriate Indifference Kind of system Explosive ltrs.

Foxy Grouchy Muppet "Groovy!"

"Stompin' at the --" Toshiba rival Blizzard maker Hireling Glistens Prefix for "second" Libras' mo.

"I say!"

Sudden urges Flip-flop Phonied it up Kebab holders Kind of sugar Kate's sitcom friend Vietnam neighbor Bruce -- of kung fu Assuaged Formal or tux So far Pastrami purveyor

123 Dugong cousin

124 Comic-strip Major

125 Two-nation peninsula

126 Coming to the rescue 127 To-do

130 Wins every game

134 -- -bopper

136 Make better

137 Acrylic fiber

138 White-water craft

140 141 143 145 146 147 149 151 152 154

Basilica part Trash hauler With, to Henri Pitch water "Cool Hand --" Oklahoma town Brooks or Gibson Military addr.

Mal de -Stein filler Solution on Pg 13

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- OBEISANCE (OBEISANCE: oh-BAY-sens: An attitude of deference or homage.)

Average mark 38 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 58 or more words in OBEISANCE?

obese obscene ocean once oscine bacon bane base basic basin beacon bean beanie been bias bine bison bone bonsai ease

ebon encase icon sane scab scan scene scion scone seance seen seine since sine snob sone sonic absence acne aeon

anise nice niece noes noise nose cabin cane canoe case casino cease cense cobia coin cone conies cosine

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of "s," such as "bats" or "dies," are not allowed.

3. Additional words made by adding a "d" or an "s" may not be used. For example, if "bake" is used, "baked" or "bakes" are not allowed, but "bake" and "baking" are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

Tech news

A

More expensive Apple AirPods said to launch next year

pple is preparing to launch new AirPods in the second half of 2018, according to KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo said Apple is sourcing smaller components from a company named TXC, which suggests the AirPods might also be smaller.

According to AppleInsider, which obtained Kuo's note, Kuo is also expecting a higher average selling price, suggesting that the AirPods might cost more than the current model.

Kuo didn't mention it, but it's possible that Apple eventually adds health tracking features to its AirPods, too.

According to a report from CNBC, the ear is a better

Tech news

F

place to track health data than the wrist.

AirPods have gained in popularity since they hit the shelves a year ago and are currently out of stock heading into the holidays.

Apple has also promised

and tied into your current use of the site's facial recognition software, which suggests friends to tag in your photos — if you've got that feature turned on, then you would get these new alerts unless you opt out.

"You're in control of your image on Facebook and can make choices such as whether to tag yourself, leave yourself untagged, or reach

Crossword Solution

wo class action lawsuits have been launched against Apple in the US following the tech giant's admission that it slows down older models of the iPhone as

T

compensation, claiming that iPhone owners never consented to the "interference".

James Vlahakis, of the Sulaiman Law Group is representing the plaintiffs in the

they age.

Apple has said that it did this to "prolong the life" of the devices and maximise diminishing battery power.

The lawsuits were filed in California and Chicago by groups of iPhone users representing others, who they claim have suffered "economic damage".

In the California court papers, Stefan Boganovich and Dakota Speas, who both live in LA, cite loss of use, loss of value and the purchase of new batteries as reasons for

Chicago legal action.

"Apple's failure to inform consumers these updates would wreak havoc on the phone's performance is being deemed purposeful, and if proven, constitutes the unlawful and decisive withholding of material information," he said in a statement.

Mr Vlahakis added that in his view it would be a "direct violation" of consumer fraud-related legislation in Illinois, Indiana and North Carolina, where the complainants are based. (BBC)

a wireless charging case for the AirPods — likely to appear next year — which will work with the current model. It seems plausible an upgraded version would ship with this out of the box.

(CNBC)

Facebook will soon send alerts when a photo of you is posted, even if you're not tagged

acebook is expanding the use of its facial recognition technology to alert users when a photo of them is posted, even if they're not tagged.

The idea is to round up photos posted by friends that you might want to add to your profile and to detect when someone else is using your photos as their own.

The setting is optional

Apple faces lawsuits over slowed iPhones

out to the person who posted the photo if you have concerns about it," the company said in a statement.

The alerts notify users when a friend or someone in their broader network posts a photo "that might include you," and then offers options to ignore the photo, tag themselves, mark that it's not them or report the photo. (CNBC)

Tech news

Facebook ditches fake news warning flag

F

acebook no longer displays red warning icons next to fake news stories shared on the platform, as it says the approach has not worked as hoped.

In December 2016, the site started showing a "disputed" warning next to articles that third-party fact checking websites said were fake news.

However, it said research suggested the "red flag" approach actually "entrenched deeply held beliefs".

It will now display "related articles" next to disputed news stories.

"Academic research on correcting misinformation has shown that putting a strong image, like a red flag, next to an article

may actually entrench deeply held beliefs - the opposite effect to what we intended," Facebook's Tessa Lyons wrote in a blog post.

Instead of displaying a warning icon in the news feed, it will instead "surface fact-checked articles" and display them next to disputed stories.

Facebook said it had tested the approach and found that although the new approach did not reduce the number of times disputed articles were clicked on, it did lead to them being shared fewer times.

People who do try and share a disputed article are showed a pop-up with links

to fact-checked sources.

"Using language that is unbiased and non-judgmental helps us to build products that speak to people with diverse perspectives," Facebook's designers said.

"Just as before, as soon as we learn that an article has been disputed by fact-checkers, we immediately send a notification to those people who previously shared it."

Critics say social networks should face regulation if they do not tackle the spread of misinformation and propaganda. (Excerpted from BBC)

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

Bollywood/Hollywood

Salman Khan tops Forbes India Celebrity 100 list

B

ollywood star Salman Khan has once again maintained the top spot in Forbes India Celebrity 100 list for the second consecutive year.

Shah Rukh Khan and India’s cricket captain Virat Kohli took the second and third spot respectively with Priyanka Chopra as the only female celebrity featuring in the top 10 list.

The 2017 Forbes India Celebrity 100 list rankings are based on estimates of entertainment-related earnings of celebrities. The period under consideration is October 1, 2016 to September 30, 2017. The methodology for calculating the ranking may have changed this year (to exclude the “fame” quotient), but the list’s top three names have remained constant.

The 51-year-old Salman, for the second

successive year, grabbed the top spot, despite the subdued box office performance of his film “Tubelight”. The actor earned a significant amount of money backed by endorsements of several consumer-facing brands. In fact, his earnings constitute 8.67 percent of the total earnings of the top 100 celebrities for the year.

Joy Chakraborthy, CEO - Forbes India and President - Revenue, TV18, said, “We are delighted to present yet another collector’s edition of Forbes India which will hit the stands soon. Over the years this list has established itself as the definitive benchmark of who’s making what in the entire entertainment world.

“This year’s Celebrity 100 list is based on a revised methodology focusing on the celebrities’ earnings, thus reflecting in better representation and hence a well-rounded celebrity list of 100.” (IANS)

Oprah warns fans of internet scammers using her name

I

t's no secret that Oprah Winfrey is one of the most generous celebrities in Hollywood. However, someone is using her giving nature to their advantage by posing as the TV icon in a questionable social media "giveaway" promotion.

In an attempt to prevent anyone from falling for the scam, Oprah has taken to social media herself to warn folks not to fall for the trick.

The post, which bares the media queen's name, has gone viral on Instagram, specifically, and is promising a Holiday giveaway of US$5,000 to its first 100,000 fans who follow its OWN media network Christmas page.

Those who eventually follow the instructions, however, are eventually asked for money. Lil' Duval put the page on blast after noticing that a few folks had already fallen victim.

After getting word of the scam, Oprah took to social media to personally urge her fans not to take the bait.

"I just wanted you to know that some-

body out there is trying to scam you using my name and my avatar on social media by asking for money and to sign up for an OWN account on Instagram," she told her followers. "It's a fraud, it's a fraud, it's a fraud!

Don't believe it! Don't give up any banking or personal account information to anyone posing as me or anyone else for that matter." (BET)

Shah Rukh Khan: ‘Hugh Jackman inspires us with his performances’

B

ollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has hailed Hugh Jackman and said that the Hollywood actor always inspires him with his performances.

“My love and thanks to my friend Hugh Jackman for always inspiring us with his performances. You are ‘The Greatest Showman’ in Wolverine’s clothing,” Shah

A

Rukh tweeted on Friday.

Directed by Michael Gracey, “The Greatest Showman” is a period musical drama film, which also features Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Rebecca Ferguson and Zendaya. Jackman, who plays the role of P. T. Barnum in the film, had earlier praised Shah Rukh at the Sydney premiere of

ctress Priyanka Chopra hopes the controversy surrounding “Padmavati” clears up soon and the people get to witness the magnum opus in all its glory.

Priyanka, who featured in a song in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Goliyon Ki Raasleela: Ram-Leela” and essayed a full-fledged role as Kashibai in his film “Bajirao Mastani”, said she would always stand by the filmmaker.

The period drama, “Padmavati”, is yet to receive a certificate from the CBFC. Several Rajput outfits and political leaders have accused the director of “distorting historical

the film.

Jackman said at the premiere, “I have done a lot of dancing and singing in this film and I had Shah Rukh Khan in mind while shooting for it. He is my mentor and I need to take more dance lessons from him. I have also done the signature SRK move, spreading my arms wide.I would love to see Shah Rukh in the Indian version of this film.”

Meanwhile, Shah Rukh, who is currently seen as the host of TED Talks India Nayi Soch, said the show is making him a better person. While replying to TED Talks curator Juliet Blake on Twitter, Shah Rukh wrote, “It’s all your hard work Juliet Blake and tenacity. Hosting ‘Nayi Soch’ is making me a better person. Thanks for watching.”

(Hindustan Times)

facts” in the movie.

Starring Deepika Padukone in the title role, with Shahid Kapoor as Maharawal Ratan Singh and Ranveer Singh as Sultan Alauddin Khilji, the film was earlier scheduled to arrive in the theatres on December 1.

“I have an incredible relationship with Sanjay sir and I admire him tremendously. I know this film will come out and people will see the art behind it.

“They just need to make sure that everything is sorted. I will always stand not only

by Sanjay sir but also Deepika, Ranveer and Shahid for the film,” Priyanka told reporters. (PTI)

R

ita Ora has (not so subtly) hinted at a collaboration with Liam Payne for the final

S

“Fifty Shades” film, and fans are pretty excited.

Rita took to Twitter and Instagram to share a sultry

ylvester Stallone is the latest famous figure to be hit with sexual assault allegation. According to a new TMZ report, an unidentified woman filed a police report in mid-November alleging that the now-71year-old actor and filmmaker raped her at his Santa Monica office in 1990.

To Reuters, a spokesman for the Santa Monica Police Department confirmed that law enforcement was investigating the matter, adding that it would refer its findings to the district attorney. The 27-year-old accusation could fall within California's complex statute of limitations for criminal prosecutions of sexual abuse, as offenses must generally be prosecuted within 10 years.

"We got a complaint that was made in November of alleged sexual misconduct in the 1990s," SMPD spokesman Saul Rodriguez said by phone on Thursday, December 21. "We are looking into it and will gather information and whatever we discover will be passed to the district attorney."

Stallone's attorney Martin Singer con-

picture of her and the former One Direction star, along with the hashtag #FiftyShadesFreed. Liam Payne also tweeted the cryptic picture, and naturally, fans went nuts.

Liam's former bandmate Zayn Malik collaborated with Taylor Swift on "I Don't Want to Live Forever' on the most recent film, “Fifty Shades Darker”.

Rita has been cast as a supporting role in the “Fifty Shades” series, and the final film is out on February 9 2018. (Glamour)

firmed that a woman had "filed a police report alleging a rape that occurred 27 years ago." Singer said in an emailed statement that Stallone "categorically disputes the claim."

Though Stallone denied he raped the woman, he did admit to spending three days with her during a film shoot in Israel in 1987. But the "Creed" actor and director claimed that he never saw her in 1990, the year the incident was alleged to have taken place. His attorney Martin told TMZ that the "Rocky" star might be planning to take legal action against the accuser for filing a false police report.

This is the second time that Stallone has been accused of sexual assault in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal. In November, the Daily Mail reported that it had obtained a police report filed in Las Vegas in 1986 in which the actor was accused of pressuring a then-16-year-old girl to engage in a threesome with himself and his bodyguard, Mike De Luca.

Stallone denied the allegation, with his representative calling it a "ridiculous, categorically false story." The rep also said that the father of five had never been contacted by law enforcement over the alleged incident. (AceShowbiz)

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 24, 2017

Fun Times

Archie

ARIES Making plans with some(March 21- one special will brighten April 19) your day. Don't be discouraged by the cost and energy it will take to reach your goal.

Discipline, desire and love will bring good results.

Open up about the way you

TAURUS feel and what you want. Make (April 20- a promise to someone you love.

May 20) A change in your personal life and living arrangements is encouraged.

GEMINI (May 28June 20)

Don't be gullible. Ask questions if something doesn't feel right. It's best to know where you stand before you make a commitment to someone you aren't sure you want to be with.

Say little, but do a lot.

CANCER Your contribution should be (June 21- one of action, not of promJuly 22) ises. Socializing, shopping or doing something you've never done before looks inviting.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

Make subtle changes that will help reduce your overhead. A unique plan may grab your attention, but don't believe everything you hear.

Indulging in excess and taking on too much are discouraged.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Keep the peace when dealing with friends and relatives. Ignore remarks or comments made by opinionated individuals. A positive attitude will serve you far better than getting into a debate.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Be careful not to let anyone put limitations on you.

Problems with older individuals or someone who doesn't share your opinions will surface if you aren't diplomatic.

Protect your home and SCORPIO family from theft or anyone (Oct. 24- who is liable to take advanNov. 22) tage of you. Don't fear being different or offering something unique to someone you love.

SAGITTARIUS Socialize, shop or make per(Nov. 23- sonal changes that will leave Dec. 21) you feeling good about the way you look and how you present yourself. Romance is in the stars.

Calvin and Hobbes

Mix the old with the new.

CAPRICORN Visiting old friends or getting (Dec. 22together with relatives you Jan. 19) don't see often will give you insight into new trends and what you should aspire to be and do.

Emotional disappointAQUARIUS ment is apparent. Try not (Jan. 20to be obviously crestfallen if Feb. 19) someone lets you down. It's a busy time of year, and patience will be required. Make personal growth a priority.

PISCES Listen to what a friend or (Feb. 20- relative has to say, but don't Mar. 20) believe everything you hear.

Commit to doing what's best for you. A gift or financial gain will make your day.