Sunday Times Magazine April 15, 2018

April 15, 2018

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Tiger Shroff enjoys the identity he’s given by the ‘action hero’

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he news is abuzz with the exciting announcement that two young Guyanese, Fatima Karim and Ashley Anthony have scored positions in a few of the top-tier universities in the United States.

These ‘high flyers’ in education are no strangers to the spotlight; both young ladies recently basked in their successes at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).

Karim, currently an Upper Sixth form student at Queen’s College and 2016’s top CSEC performer, was able to gain admission into the Princeton and Stanford Universities. The young scholar explained that while both universities are stellar,

it would be a difficult decision to choose; she is intent on studying chemical engineering.

While att e n d ing St

Rose’s H i g h S c h o o l , Karim wrote 20 subjects and obtained 19 Grade Ones and one Grade Two. Speaking with Guyana Times, the young woman had expressed her excitement and relief with her results,

but I didn’t know that I would top the country. I found out about my grades like two hours before the

noti n g that she is proud of her achievement.

“I was pleasantly surprised with the grades…

I was expecting to do well

press conference and was really excited but I still didn’t know I topped the country, and I was watching the press conference with my family and when they called out my

said too that it would be a source of great pride for her to return to Guyana upon the completion of her studies.

Meanwhile, Ashley Anthony has been admitted to Yale, another highprofile US university. This young lady is no stranger to being highlighted for her academic ability. A published Author and a columnist, this young lady also a high achiever at CSEC and CAPE in 2016. The daughter of former Minister Dr Frank Anthony, Ashley s ecured 17 Grade Ones.

“My advice to other young

as successful as you hope.

Always have a contingency plan.

Even though it's good to shoot for the stars, many ivy league schools and top tier schools are extremely selective. In my case, I chose to apply to top schools as well as schools that weren't as elite to ensure that at the end of the day I'd still be going to college,” Ashely advised during an interview with the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

Hoping to study Biomolecular Physics/ Chemistry, Anthony explained that although she had sent applications to several other high ranking Universities, Yale was among her top choices. She is intent on continuing her academic pursuits, and ex-

Fatima receiving an award for her outstanding performance

name, the house went wild and the phone began to ring and it was crazy after that,” she recalled.

Even then, the young academic expressed the hopes of pursuing studies in petroleum engineering, following in the footsteps of her uncles and grandfather. She

people would be to try your best to understand the system and what's required of you. You can be a great student; excelling at CSEC and CAPE, but if you don't put the same amount of effort into SATS and your essays for your college applications, more than likely you won't be

Ashley and colleagues at her High School graduation

plained that even after she graduates in 2022 she plans to return to Guyana.

Anuradha Dev firmly positioned in the high echelons of academics.

Currently pursuing studies at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Anuradha Dev is former stu-

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dent o f Leonora Primary School, the young G u y a n e s e scholar emerged as a high flyer in 2006 when she topped the country at the Common Entrance Examinations, now the National Grade 6 Assessment (NGSA). Securing a place at the prestigious Queen’s College, the young Guyanese also topped the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) for Guyana in 2011, with 16 grade ones; this time, she also secured the highest scores in the Caribbean for Science. Subsequently, Anu excelled in the 2013 CAPE Examinations.

According to Miss Dev, preparation for the examination was a challenge as she did not attend any lessons; rather, she studied with the help of her father and her teachers who again contributed to her success. “Well first of all, I didn’t take any lessons; I did a lot of work at home with my dad by using the CAPE syllabus,” she disclosed during an earlier interview with the Guyana Times.

Dev, who was ordained Head Prefect at her school, said the opportunity gave her the opportunity to become more organised for CAPE Unit Two as she had to prioritise her work. She is fiercely

proud o f t h e role she played as Head Prefect and also takes pride in representing her school in sports.

Elaborating on her home studies, Dev said she and her dad would do online studies and research, but this was a challenge since she had to choose specifically what to study based on the makeup of the CAPE syllabus. She wrote biology, chemistry, physics, pure math (all Unit Two) and Caribbean studies this year, and in 2012 in Lower Six Form, she wrote biology, chemistry, physics, pure math and communications studies (all Unit One). She thanked her teachers, families and friends for their support during her studies, and advised students to break the habit of procrastination and to manage their time wisely.

After this achievement, she then

moved on to Trinidad, where she is currently pursuing her medical studies. Following three years in Medical School, Anu attained her Bachelor of Medical Science, graduating with high honours and a 4.11GPA. She is currently working assiduously to complete her MBBS in May. Intention With intentions of eventually becoming a

General Surgeon, this Guyanese high achiever’s main aim is to improve the health care sys-

Anuradha at her High School graduation

tem in Guyana, and has every intention of returning to her homeland.

She expressed t h e

confidence t h a t “Guyana is beginning to take off” and that she can provide an invaluable service to her country in the future.

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Feature

– UG 2017 Valedictorian

E

lsie Harry is a proud Guyanese, a leader and a lover of people. During a recent interview with the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Ms Harry took the opportunity to provide some insight into her life and academic success. “I believe in working earnestly and honestly for the things that we want to achieve. I believe in the ability of Guyana’s human resource to lift her above her current challenges to become more productive and to return her to a leadership role in the region. It is for this reason that I continuously exert my energies toward activism, youth and community development. Each of us can make a difference- we only need to decide how,” she stated firmly. On her journey and experiences, Ms Harry was quick to share advice.

Times Sunday Times (TSM): What has the journey to success been like? What were your obstacles, sacrifices, rewards?

Ms. Harry: My journey to success is ongoing. I have reached certain milestones that I am proud of such as; completing my first Degree and being named University of Guyana Valedictorian 2017, winning several graduation awards inclusive of the Rashleigh Jackson Prize for the best graduating student with the Bachelor of Social Science Degree in International Relations

Elsie Harry all smiles at her UG graduation

and the Council of the University of Guyana Prize for the graduating student who has made the greatest contribution in other areas of University activities 2016-2017, being named a European Commission Peace Building Scholar and gaining sponsorship to the One Young World Conference 2017

and a 2016 Commonwealth Youth Worker Award for community service. These are essentially, the rewards for the obstacles that I have overcome and sacrifices that have been made.

The obstacles have included financial and health related trials. In those times I was thankful for my network of support.

Also, I adopted a healthier lifestyle and obtained employment in my 3rd year of University with a purpose to maintain balance, so that I could have greater financial security without jeopardizing my academic performance.

The sacrifices included foregoing the things that I wanted to do, that seemed more fun at the time, for the things that I recognised were necessary. Rather than always going out with my friends or sleepingin (I did this in moderation), I chose to dedicate time to reading, attending workshops and conferences and volunteering.

As you can tell, the sacrifices paid off and now, when I look at the rewards, I am motivated to keep making the necessary sacrifices to achieve other goals that I have set for myself.

TSM: Who were your motivators/role models?

Ms Harry: My motivators and role models are many. They are a mixture of adults and youth who I see doing positive things in Guyana and the world. I wish I could list the adults in particular, but I am convinced that they do not like the limelight. I am content to say that through work, volunteer activities and by way of introduction, I have met people who have taken a keen interest in my development. I refer to them as my mentors and I can call them at any time to receive advice, reading material and instructions for navigating the challenges that I face in my life. The youth that I follow and draw motivation from are those that continuously do positive things, great or small, in their specific areas of interest. Many of them I simply follow on social media. I love reading their stories and I drop them little lines of congratulations and encouragement, knowing that each of them simply doing what they do, encourages me to keep doing what I do.

TSM: Since graduation, what has been your journey like? future plans Ms Harry : Immediately after graduation I spent time with my friends and loved ones. I thanked them for the role that they continue to play in my life. I travelled to spend time with family members and to complete some important tasks for my parents. While I was away from Guyana, I was able to do some media work inclusive of producing and hosting a radio programme and I learnt some valuable skills inclusive of editing audio content and website managing which I am able to use in my service to the NGO that I currently work with in Guyana. I host a television programme on HBTV Channel 9 called African Drums; it airs on Sundays at 8-9pm. I have been speaking at various events and offering my services mainly to youth to assist with their development.

My future plans include pursuing a Masters Degree in an area that I am convinced is necessary for Guyana’s development. I can talk more about this when it is settled. I plan to get married after my Masters programme is complete because I am in a long-term relationship and I do believe in the value of family and companionship. I will also continue to volunteer and to focus my efforts on more specific areas of national development.

TSM: What message would you send to young people aspiring to be like you?

Ms Harry: My message to the youth is, please don’t aspire to be like me. Rather, as-

pire to be the best version of yourself. You each have your unique abilities, interests and your own drive. There are things that you can do that I cannot and that is okay, because we are all needed for Guyana’s development. I am truly convinced that Guyana’s youth are exceptional and I want to implore you to make the decision to impact Guyana in a positive way. I’m leaving you with a snippet of my graduation speech and I hope that it inspires you, as I was inspired to write it: Renaissance: Everyone, this is your wake up call, regardless of what office you sit in, sales clerk or politician, pastor or President, student or teacher; having your renaissance means being able to facilitate the renaissance of others. Be efficient, be

courteous, be caring. Do not focus on ethnicity-focus on character. Respect women- we are important to Guyanese society and simply offer quality service because it serves our country. When you do better, your country does better. When you achieve your renaissance, your country will achieve its renaissance.

Graduates do not think that you have done your duty to this country by simply graduating with your Degrees and Diplomas. Everyone, do not fly out and abandon Guyana. I need you to dig deep within yourselves and figure out today, what you can do to accelerate your own renaissance. Those of you who sit passively by, while things unfold in Guyana that you are not proud of, stop it!

This is the rallying cry, this is my admonition to you-each of you can change the world; you only need to decide how! You are the bright faces that will eventually lead our country, hearts that will mend the holes in the fabric of our society, hands that will mold future generations into future leaders and feet that will tread into areas of divide and sew reconciliation into the hearts of the people. Everyone, this is YOUR renaissance; own it, and dare, to complete it!

Harry merged as the front runner amidst a group of about 2000 graduating students; she is the former president of the university’s International Affairs Association.

The young woman summed up her feelings as being “overwhelmed”, and went on to thank here well-wishers for their support throughout her journey of higher levels of academic and professional pursuits.

She graduated with an astonishing grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 and attained her Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations from the Faculty of Social Sciences.

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especially the children, were anxious to get on any of the 15 laptop computers that were donated by Government to the Leguan Community

A

new ICT Hub was recently commissioned at the Wales Community Center located close to the Patentia Secondary and Primary Schools.

Wi–fi equipment was previously installed at that Center in 2017 by the eGovernment Project Execution Unit, and students from the two nearby schools have since been able to access the internet utilizing their own laptops, tablets, cell phones, while they waited for the community to convert a part of the community center into an ICT hub. Several desktop computers had been installed on the premises in 2012 as part of the old Basic Needs Trust project.

The eGovernment Unit, now absorbed into the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), went ahead last year and repaired every computer before connecting them to the now year-old Wi-fi internet at the community center. Now the young people and adults have free access to the worldwide web via those refurbished computers, as well as their own devices.

Parmesh Bissoondial, a student of Patentia Secondary said, “The ICT Hub will help me because I have work to do online for my (CSEC SchoolBased Assessment) SBA, and it will help me gain knowledge. I could also download books so I can study, and get past papers so I can practise for the exams.

It will come in very handy”. His fellow student, Shivanie Sukdeo,

Patentia Secondary Student Parmesh Bissoondial

shared his views. She stated, “By opening this Hub in the Wales Community, it will benefit me as a student, (to) do my SBA, my research, my assignments and many other things, so it is very beneficial and I am happy about it”.

Patentia Secondary’s teacher of Information Technology and Economics, Ms. Raelene Phillips, stated that the best thing for her students is the fact that they have internet connectivity in school and after school at the community center. “They can practice what they learned at school. Exams are just around the corner and they will need as much practice as they can get, and (they can) work at their own pace,” she reiterated. She observed that there are families in the Wales community who may not have easy and free access to the internet at home and now they could just walk over to the Community Center.

Ms. Phillips plans to start her own training programme for

Patentia Secondary Student Shivanie Sukhdeo

adults and senior citizens in the community “to teach them how to use the computer so they can see how the internet can benefit them. We know there are some adults who do not want to use the computer because they do not know how, but we are living in the age of technology so it is important for them to know,” she firmly stated. Her plans fit right in with the MOPT’s long-term itinerary that includes computer literacy (basic and intermediate level) training at community centers.

Free Internet in Leguan

One day after the Wales commissioning, the 110th completely functional ICT hub was commissioned on the Essequibo River island of Leguan.

This is another milestone on the MOPT journey, providing free internet access for Guyanese in every administrative region.

Leguan’s hub was commissioned

by Minister Cathy Hughes.

Residents of the community,

Centre. At the end of the brief commissioning ceremony, the children cut the obligatory ribbon with Minister Hughes then rushed to the computers. Very

quickly they found the NCERD website with past examination papers, and the online games they know. (Ministry of Public Telecommunications)

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Literary Corner

by

Petamber Persaud

PP: Jordan, your opening thoughts.

JV: Well, I came to Guyana when I was nineteen, first to Jonestown – everyone that came in, first went to Jonestown and most stayed. I was fortunate to also come out and spend time in some of the outlying areas like Georgetown, Linden and New Amsterdam and get to know the people of Guyana well. For me, coming back here, I wanted to see Jonestown or the area that was once Jonestown for...perhaps...the last time. Something was left unfinished without having seen it again so I was able to do that and it was very healing in a way I probably wouldn’t know until I get back home. But the other reason is I also wanted to connect with the Guyanese people who had always been kind and opened up their hearts to us, every single Guyanese I have met was very friendly and welcoming.

And as Laura said the Guyanese perspective hasn’t been taken into account and the damage that the incident had on Guyana was large and I wanted to acknowledge that.

So our trip here has been better than I could have expected. People have been really receptive and the conversations have been rich – I feel like along with my healing we can all heal together because the Guyanese people are victimised as well and together we can go further than just leaving it as this thing that happened, what more can we do together to learn from it and be open to creativity in ways we haven’t thought of before.

PP: Two things: Laura you talked about the beauty of Guyana and its hold on you, and Jordan you too, and I am happy for that.

The other thing: in my line, I always question the text – there is not much coming from Guyana except for Eusi Kwayana....

LJH: He is a good friend of mine. His perspective helped me opened up look-

by

Aesop

I

n a field one summer’s day a Grasshopper was hopping about, chirping and singing to its heart’s content. An Ant passed by, bearing along with great toil an ear of corn he was taking to the nest.

“Why not come and chat with me,” said the Grasshopper, “instead of toiling and moiling in that way?”

“I am helping to lay up food for the winter,” said the Ant, “and recom-

ing for the Guyanese perspective. He wrote his book A New Look at Jonestown: Dimensions from a Guyanese Perspective and he had asked me to write the foreword.

I read the book and just loved it...you see when I was healing, I talked first about it was me then a little bit bigger and finally it was the bay area of San Francisco and California. I didn’t pursue it, I didn’t widen it enough. When Eusi wrote his book,

he talked a lot about Guyana, he talked a lot about things bigger than Guyana – a global perspective of how a rich entity can come into a country and have no regulations, restrictions or overview because they seem so

mend you to do the same.”

“Why bother about win-

powerful, donating a lot of money and dif- from one point or the other.... ferent efforts in a community. So what Eusi PP: One point or the other. Any new indid, he expanded it as wide as it could be; formation coming out of that meeting?

JV: There are a lot of rumours flying it is not only a Guyana issue, it is not limited to the Western Hemisphere, it is really around after all these years – gold, mona global issue. So he included rich texts of ey....

LJH: Supplies of cement going into historians and economists, people who had the perspective and data to prove his point Jonestown.... on the roads available at that which is saying that Guyana is not alone in time; it seems unlikely.

You know, in a period of three, we creathaving an outside force come in and really wreck havoc. That started me think- ed a community of three huge dorms, a paing that there must more Guyanese who vilion, a school, a library, 52 cottages, houshave opinions but I don’t have much con- ing 1,000 people living in Jonestown. tact with them. So I wrote my book and The makeup of Jonestown was about started doing a blogs on my Facebook one third children, about one third seniors. page targeting all the people living in [The children] were pretty much in school, Guyana. So I get this rich feedback – or doing gardening, or cleaning the greens thousands of people would look at my we brought in or sowing. And then there blog and hundreds of people would re- was a workforce about one third kept busy spond: Oh, yes, I saw the Guyanese feeding 1,000 people three meals a day!.... man shot at the airstrip; a bullet Cement? No time for cement – only ruwhiz by his leg and injured him or mours....

JV: This also shows you that without somebody saw a truck leave.

There is so much we haven’t even contact, all kinds of ideas come forth. Over explored on the surface not even the this long period to time, people hadn’t the deeper issues. So we have to start opportunity to speak to anybody.

LJK: The Jonestown Institute is the with the surface but even while we were here we had a communi- most profound source of information.... ty meet at Port Kaituma, invitResponses to this author telephone (592) ing everyone to ask any question 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yaand we tried to let them know hoo.com anything was fine.

They came – 35 or so people came they had all the questions, they brought up the rumours; it was a very friendly, open and active and wonderful gathering that we could look each other in the eye and what about that and Jordan or I would try to explain or agree with them that it was ridiculous or whatever...beBY EDGAR ALLAN POE cause we have a lot in common – we all saw the madness

ter?” said the Grasshopper; “We have got plenty of food at present.” But the Ant went on its way and continued its toil.

When the winter came the Grasshopper had no food and found itself dying of hunger while it saw the ants distributing every day corn and grain from the stores they had collected in the summer.

Then the Grasshopper knew: It is best to prepare for days of need. Classic fable. Moral: It is best to prepare for days of need.

Notice to Readers

In visions of the dark night I have dreamed of joy departed— But a waking dream of life and light Hath left me broken-hearted.

Ah! what is not a dream by day To him whose eyes are cast On things around him with a ray Turned back upon the past?

That holy dream—that holy dream, While all the world were chiding, Hath cheered me as a lovely beam A lonely spirit guiding.

What though that light, thro' storm and night, So trembled from afar— What could there be more purely bright In Truth's day-star?

If you have a poem and/or short story you would like to publish on our Literary Corner page, please email to timessundaymag@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.

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he Bishops’ High School, St. Roses High School, and Mahdia Secondary School were today chosen to represent Guyana at the upcoming Science Fair being held in September in Brazil. The schools were selected based on their excellent performance at the recent National Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Fair 2018.

This announcement came at the closing ceremony of the STEAM Fair held at St Joseph’s High School last Friday , which saw scores of students, parents and teachers heavily involved in the proceedings The three-day Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) fair which featured a number of participants from schools across the length and breadth of Guyana concluded recently , and was considered a success. The event was held under the theme, “Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics paving the way for a green and sustainable society”.

This year, several schools in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/ Berbice) dominated the competition, and carted off most of the trophies being distributed among four participating schools.

Mackenzie High placed second in Lower Secondary Science category with their project, Purple Square. In the Social Biology Science category, the same school got first place with their project,

The winners of the National Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics – STEAM Fair 2018

‘Healthy Smealthy’. There was also a winner from Linden in the Mathematics Category and others in Chemistry and Agriculture.

Christiansburg Secondary placed first in the Home Economics category and the Linden Foundation won a few trophies as well.

Participants were judged based on physical display, oral presentation, and a prepared booklet.

Other big winners in the competition included St Roses High, for the best overall presentation,

Three Miles Secondary School, Abram Zuil Secondary, St Agnes Primary School, St. Ignatius Secondary, Tuschen Primary School, New Market Primary, CV Nunes Primary, Tucville Secondary, St. Stanislaus College, Novar Secondary, St Joseph’s High, Berbice High School and Waraburi Secondary.

Several other schools in Regions One, Two, Three, Five, Six, Seven and Nine, also copped several top prizes for their out-

standing pieces.

The competition was divided into three categories; Primary, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary and further subdivided into a plethora of subject areas including Mathematics, Home Economics, Visual Arts, Information Technology, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Agricultural Science, among others.

The National Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts,

4 new restorative practices trainers to be certified in the Region

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and Mathematics fair, is a biennial event. The purpose of these shows is to allow students an opportunity to display innovative and creative projects produced by them to solve problems within their community or school environment. Region Four will be hosting the next STEAM Fair in 2020.

According to Assistant Chief Education Officer Patrick Chenadu, this year’s exhibition featured the introduction of art, newly implemented to highlight the works of students pursuing art studies.

Emphasis was also placed on the “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” element being showcased, which upped the creativity of the executed plans.

The teachers and the students spent months of planning their projects. They had to compete in the regionals before making it to the nationals.

Over the past months, the various institutions, ranging from primary to tertiary, competed in regional competitions, in which the winners were chosen to showcase their creations in the finals.

While some students used the platform to highlight key issues which affect their communities and country, others emphasized the importance nutrition and diet plays in the lives of individuals. In this way, those who visited the exhibition were given exposure on these areas, as well as knowledge on how they can be resolved.

he Canadian Government funded Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice) Project, hosted two 2-day Restorative Practices Workshops in the Shell Suite of the Solution Centre, The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus from April 3rd to 6th, 2018.

These workshops were conducted to conclude the training of 4 of the 6 persons trained in Barbados to be Restorative Practices Trainers.

At the opening ceremony for the workshops, Professor Velma Newton, Regional Project Director of the IMPACT Justice Project stated that thus far IMPACT Justice has trained hundreds of persons across 10 of the 13 CARICOM countries in which the Project is implemented.

She expressed her pleasure that the Project has reached the stage where it can now boast of having created a cohort of trainers to further promote the use of Restorative Practices through which educators and parents can address violence and bullying within schools.

The 4 persons who will now qualify for certification as Restorative Practices Trainers are Ms. Patricia Warner, Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education, Mrs. Julia Edey, Guidance Counsellor, Parkinson Memorial School, Mr. Ken Layne, Deputy Principal, Darryl Jordan Secondary School and Ms. Gloria Lewis, Lecturer, T.A. Marryshow Community College, Grenada.

All 4 of the new trainers received high praise from the participants who comprised, Education Officers, Principals, Guidance Counsellors, Youth Commissioners, Primary School Counsellors and Teachers. Mr. Bruce Schenk, Director of the International Institute for Restorative Practices, Canada, was also very pleased with the performance of the new trainers.

On April 11th and 12th, IMPACT Justice will facilitate another workshop at which two more trainee trainers from Guyana and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will have an opportunity to complete their certification process.

This workshop is being held in collaboration with the Ministry of Education in Guyana.

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Travel and Tourism

– a peaceful and relaxing place away from the outside world

Panoramic

“T

he Essequibo is a grand, beautifully moody river that transports the brown muddy waters from wide reaches of Guyana.” Bradt Guides From its humble source in the Acarai Mountains along Guyana’s southern border with Brazil, the Essequibo River flows north for more than 600 miles – winding, twisting and roaring through savannas and tropical forests along the way – until its mouth opens up some 20 miles (32km) in width and it spills into the Atlantic Ocean. During its journey, the Essequibo, which is Guyana’s largest river, and South America’s third-largest (behind the Amazon and Orinoco), flows aroundsome 365 different islands.

The three largest – Wakenaam, Leguan and Hog – create a large tongue in the Essequibo’s mouth. Together their girth measures nearly 60 square miles; alone the islands are larger than some of the famed Caribbean countries to the north.

I have crossed the majestic Essequibo on countless occasions; numerous adventures have taken me by plane, speed boat, ferry, paddleboat and even a yacht. Each of these expeditions has left a lasting impression as I have experienced the many moods of the mighty river. From the calm veneer of the early morning waters to the angry churning of the mid- afternoon tide, the river never ceases to captivate.

As an adventurer, I am always hungry for the next jaunt, therefore, when the opportunity arose to explore the upper reaches of the Essequibo River; I was all in, never anticipating the enchanting experience ahead. The trip itself was not a very tedious one; the comforts of a modern SUV cushioned much of the bumps along the Linden Highway and the stretch of Mabura Road, where laden trucks and mud covered cars traverse. Throughout the three hour journey, thoughts of the River kept flowing through my mind; was it possible to actually walk across this intimidating body of water? That was the lure of the trip for me. There was much talk of such a possibility given that it was the dry season and much of the golden sand banks were now exposed, creating a pathway to the other side of the river bank. Oh what a possibility! Preoccupied with these thoughts, the red road led us on; anxious and excited I finally settled in.

The journey itself cannot be overlooked, as there was much to absorb as the Essequibo called out. Along the way we saw a variety of creatures including monkeys, an anteater and hundreds of birds in all colours and sizes. For anyone who has ever journeyed into Guyana’s interior regions, this experience is as enriching as it is humbling.

Moco moco Creek

Sand Banks

It was mid- morning by the time we arrived at our camp site; the trek to the river would take another half hour.

Given my mounting excitement, I was pleased to learn that we would forego the journey by foot for a later time. The comfy SUV was on hand to whisk us away in record time.

I opted to ride in the tray, not wanting to miss the first glimpse of the Essequibo; the view did not disappoint. As the vehicle crested the hill, the river bank came into sight and I reeled at the awesome sight. There, glistening in the mid afternoon sun, the murky waters of the River met the golden trails of the Moco Mock Creek, their union clearly visible in the shallow waters.

Rapt by the now shallow depths, I hopped from the SUV and waded slowly into the cool waters, which flowed gently between my toes. Other members of the group were now wading knee deep in the Essequibo, as they made their way across to the other side. So as not to be bested, I too forged ahead! This was what the journey was all about for me. Half way across, I suddenly remembered my inability to swim and my underlying fear of the water. As quickly as I immersed myself in the mesmerizing waters, I was back on the river bank. This was the mighty Essequibo! How dare I attempt to slay her? Humbled by this thought, I was comforted by my bravado, though short-lived. Members of the group made the journey a few times effortlessly. Here, there were no Dutch forts, pretty beaches or a fancy resorts, only nature in its rawest form; peaceful and serene and miles away from the outside world. There I remained on the River Bank and listened to the gentle lapping of the waters until the sun set on the sleeping giant.

There was no danger in the crossing, although I only managed to walk across the Essequibo half way , however, I preserved my respect for the placid waters and vowed that we would meet again.

Comfy SUV

Sunset on the Essequibo

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Fashion

O

ne of the hallmarks of Wedding Expo in recent years is participation in the event by micro entrepreneurs, sponsored by big companies whose products they utilise.

This year, companies such as the Beharry Group and Sterling Products along with agencies like t h e Institute for Private Enterprise Development (IPED) and the government’s Small Business Bureau were responsible for sponsorship of the participation of almost a dozen micro enterprises in the 10th anniversary edition of Wedding Expo, staged by the Roraima Group of Companies.

“This is the kind of support we would like to see more of the big companies give to small entrepreneurs so as to give them exposure and help them grow their businesses,” Roraima chief executive officer, Capt.

Gerry Gouveia said at a post event press conference.

With the announcement by Director General of Tourism, Donald Sinclair, that new legislation should be in place later this year to facilitate the issue of marriage licenses within a timeframe of two to three days, wedding destination tourism is set to “take off” and it is imperative that Guyana prepares to exploit this new opportunity, Gouveia said.

“So Wedding Expo will emerge as an even more important event in the national calendar of events, as it provides the most uniquely positioned platform in Guyana that delivers significant value to all stakeholders in the hospitality sector in general and the wedding industry in particular. We at Roraima remain committed to hosting and further building Wedding Expo so that participants can fully benefit from the opportunities to be de-

rived from a full developed wedding destination tourism product,” he said.

Wedding Expo 2018 was a display of glitz and glamour spiced with the rich cultural diversity that is Guyana. For three consecutive nights the poolside of the Duke Lodge was transformed into a vibrant riot of color and rich artistry with male and female models offering up the latest in bridal and related fashion, much to the appreciation of the engaging audiences that turned out each night.

The wedding of this year’s winners of ‘Race to the Altar’ was, as it is each year, another major attraction at Wedding Expo 2018.

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 15, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Recipe

Ingredients 1 pound baby new potatoes, quartered (substitute with chopped sweet potatoes if desired) 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 tsp oregano

1/4 tsp garlic powder Salt & pepper to taste 8 ounces uncooked sausage of choice 1/2 cup chopped white onion 1 cup diced bell peppers 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

T

he beautiful, warm, sunny weather is here; there is no better time to entertain friends and family outdoors. You don’t have to buy allnew stuff to create the perfect spot for outdoor entertaining; just use what you have! We’ll show you how to decorate for three occasions — a dinner party, a casual brunch and a movie night — using items you likely already own.

Outdoor Dinner Party

Think you don’t have an outdoor dining table to host an outdoor dinner party? Think again! Just borrow your indoor dining table.

Be sure to bring it back inside before the weather turns.

Set the Table

Bring plates, chargers, table runners and other decor outside to create a festive dining area.

When the sun goes down on your outdoor party, light candles so the celebration can keep going.

Instructions Preheat oven 425º F In a medium bowl, add potatoes with olive oil, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spread out potatoes on a baking sheet. Place in center oven and roast about 20 minutes, or until potatoes are golden and tender.

While potatoes are roasting, cook sausage in a stovetop skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove meat from skillet and temporarily set aside.

Next add onions and peppers to the hot skillet with a little more olive oil if needed.

Season with a little salt and pepper if desired. Sauté until tender, about 4-5 minutes.

Finally, return cooked meat to the hot skillet. Add in the roasted potatoes. Stir everything together until warmed through. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy.

Serving Station

If you’ve got an old cabinet or hutch in the house that’s not getting a lot of use, upcycle it into an outdoor bar and buffet complete with a mini fridge.

This versatile piece can hold all of your outdoor entertaining essentials: glasses, plates, drinks, snacks and more.

Outdoor Brunch

An alfresco brunch doesn’t necessarily call for a formal dining table. Instead, arrange your outdoor seating around a coffee table. Display treats on tiered serving platters to maximize space.

Tips Pillows and Throws

• Wash items after every one to two wears. Even if you can't see them, invisible body soils and perspiration can turn white fabrics yellow or gray over time.

• Attack stains as soon as possible.

Food spots like ketchup or coffee are a given, but things that you can't see, like sweat marks, should be treated to prevent build-up too. To do this, rub a full-strength liquid enzyme detergent, on the underarm area, then let your shirt sit 15 minutes before throwing it into the wash.

• Always separate white and colored clothes. Sure, this seems obvious, but it really makes a difference.

• Pick a laundry detergent that contains bleach. Or bleach alternatives; these products generally get whites whiter during the washing cycle.

• Don't overload your washing machine. We know, when there's space at the top it's hard to resist throwing in a few more shirts. Clothing needs to circulate to get clean. If you fill your washtub to the top, there isn't enough room for the detergent to interact with soils and give an optimal cleaning performance. (goodhousekeeping.com)

Comfy guests are happy guests. Embellish your outdoor furniture with plush pillows and throws from inside your home. These items can’t withstand the elements long-term, but they’ll add an extra layer of coziness during your brunch. Turn an old table into something cool – literally.

Just cut out a circle the size of an ice bucket in the center of the table and place the bucket inside. Now, you have a multifunctional piece of furniture for serving and stashing drinks.

Outdoor Movie Night Who doesn’t love watching a movie under the stars?

Start by creating an easy DIY screen using PVC pipes and a white sheet.

In no time you and your guests will be watching blockbusters from the cozy comfort of your own backyard movie theater.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 15, 2018

Puzzles

ACROSS 1 Waterfall

6 Roman sculpture 10 Wan

15 Biathlon weapon

20 Film director Mervyn - 21 Kind of swing 22 Jostle

23 McEnroe's ex

24 Fire of the mind

25 Psychic -- Cayce 26 Tendon

27 Part of TGIF

28 Lapel adornment

30 They keep nails neat (2 wds.)

32 Gave the slip

33 Robin snacks

35 "Fatha" Hines

36 Russian emperor

39 -- Moines 40 Pigpen

41 Dinner check

42 Sundance Kid's girl

46 Antenna type

47 Joined together

48 Surfing mecca

51 Uses an auger

53 Good disguise 54 Knickknacks

56 Determine, as a ref

57 Byron contemporary 59 Call

61 Magazine stand

62 Golden Fleece thief

63 Eyebrow shapes 64 Unfair 65 Souvenir 67 Empathize

68 URL suffix

69 Geishas' apparel

72 Check-cashing needs 73 Diplomacy

76 Raised a brood

80 Contemptible fellow

81 Quartet minus one

82 "Diamond Lil"

83 Warrior Princess

85 Startled cries

86 Gumshoe, often

88 Sage, in India

92 Opposite of "post-"

93 Ballad writer

94 Major leaguer

95 Sharp turns 96 Playhouse 99 Fuzzier

102 Fit to -- - 103 Knocks for a loop

104 Fixed a squeak

108 Bottomless depth 109 Toboggans

110 Kind of castle 111 Hire

112 Mal de - 113 Caper

115 Arctic floater

116 Balloon filler

117 Boot liner

118 Make a furrow

120 Suffix for "forfeit"

121 "Harper Valley --"

123 Overly glib

124 Passe hair style

125 Comet -- -Bopp 127 Glimmer

129 Least ruddy

131 Spice buy (2 wds.)

135 Changing state

140 Rock tumbler stone

141 Oven gloves

142 More sensible

143 Concrete reinforcer

144 More boorish

145 Jet set

146 -- nous 147 Bellyache

148 Winemaker's need 149 Hinder

150 Poor grades 151 Theme

DOWN

1 Marble block

2 Flying prefix

3 Pakistan language 4 Vandal

5 Alpine region

6 Whodunit musts

7 Strongly advised

8 Disfigure 9 Hurled 10 Maintain

11 1920s dance 12 Whets 13 Constantly

14 Winter fest (2 wds.)

15 Turbine part

16 Take a sniff

17 Have qualms

18 Terra firma

19 Yellowstone sight

21 Awaited action

29 Painter's models

31 Blue ox of legend

34 The Buckeyes' sch.

36 Diving position

37 Feng - 38 Dated hairdo 41 Moppets

43 Low cards

44 Fork feature 45 Mellowed

47 Roused up

48 Give the bum's rush 49 Distant

50 Fox's prey

51 Provides capital

52 Flowery shrub

55 Belief systems

56 Release price

57 -- Abdul-Jabbar

58 Piccadilly statue 60 Beldams

62 Obi-Wan, for one

64 Old-fashioned hat

66 Funhouse feature

67 Small flies

69 Autumn mo.

70 Happy hour site

71 Spud st.

74 Mental pictures

75 77

78

79

81

84

87

89

90

91

93

97

98

99

100

Disburse Unduly Lamb's parent Summer hrs.

Avila saint Important decades PC "brains" Like Montezuma Made tracks Perfume base Prudish person Like some juries Billions of years Shoe part Explorer -- Tasman

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- CROCODILE (CROCODILE: KROK-uh-dile: A large aquatic reptile of the tropical areas.)

Average mark 45 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 67 or more words in CROCODILE? coil coir cold colder cole colic color cooed cool cooler

cord core credo cried recoil redo relic rice ride rile

rode rodeo roil role rood odor oiled oiler older oleic

oleo olio oriel oriole decor deli dice dicer diel dire

docile doer dole dolor door drool iced idle idler idol

124 Makes a sound 126 Warn

127 Catch on (2 wds.)

128 Asked for milk

129 Tomato product

130 Snorkel, to Beetle 131 Deviate

132 Feverish chill

133 Goose egg

134 Ill temper

136 Tarzan's transport

137 Sacred bird of the Nile

138 Wine valley 139 Dingy See Solution on Pg 14

Word Search

KATHLEEN SAXE

ceric cero cider circle cire cleric clod coco code coed

101 Pita treat

102 What never to tell (2 wds.)

103 Compass pt.

105 Reindeer herder

106 Mild rejoinder

107 Art style

109 Flowed along

111 Restaurant patron

114 -- and void

115 Moo companion

116 In large supply

119 Yolks' companions

121 Nebraska river 122 Edgier

123 Covers the walls

lice lied lire loco lode lord lore

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

april 15, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 13

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 15, 2018

Bollywood/Hollywood

M

arvel's 'Avengers: Infinity War', which features an ensemble of superheroes, will release worldwide on April 27.

Reportedly, the release of 'Avengers: Infinity War' in the US has been advanced from May 4 to April 27.

The movie was earlier scheduled to release in India one week before the US, but with the date shift the film will open on the

P

riyanka Chopra’s second Hollywood outing ‘A Kid Like Jake’ has been grabbing headlines since its inception. From earning recognition in international film festivals to the moving plotline, ‘A Kid Like Jake’ seems to be on every-

R

ampage movie review: As we know by now, these movies - Jumanji and Fast & Furious - are largely vehicles for Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson to drive off a cliff. And survive.

Dwayne Johnson can seemingly save troubled franchises with as much ease

one’s watch list this year.

After a prolonged wait, the movie’s trailer is finally out and it will get you all choked up.

The beautiful trailer narrates the story of parents who are trying to get their kid Jake admitted into a

as it takes him to put a man to sleep using just his bare hands – but even he, with all his divinity, can’t save Rampage from steamrolling all over his filmography.

With neither the will nor the reason to experiment with his roles, The Rock has cornered the market when it comes to

Crossword Solution

kindergarten. But their little boy is somehow interested in fairy tales and princesses than trucks and ninja turtles. This obviously confuses his parents and they aren’t sure how to deal with Jake’s preferences. In order to devoid Jake of any sort of an embarrassment at his school, they are thinking of other options to make his life better.

While Priyanka has a blink-and-miss appearance in the trailer, we do see her getting introduced as one of the significant characters which puts her under the limelight. Watch the amazing trailer of ‘A Kid Like Jake’. (Times of India)

a very precise sub- genre of action movies, the sort that his nemesis Vin Diesel had made his own about a decade ago. These are the movies that cater to teenage boys and no one else, ideally those who were born post 9/11 so that the inevitable mass mayhem of the third act has little subtext, if any. There have been exceptions, of course.

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle was a surprisingly wild ride, but usually the Rock’s recent output seems to be made up of dusty old relics hastily cleaned as a last moment gift for a younger audience that may or may not throw it in the trash.

Technically, Rampage is a video game movie, sort of like how Jumanji was also a video game movie – while there are elements that are either inspired by or borrowed from the games and gaming culture, these movies are largely vehicles for Dwayne Johnson to drive off a cliff. And survive.

This time, adventure calls when the Rock’s friend (and gorilla), George, is infected by a toxic serum that gives him super strength, super agility and super size. With shady government agents, shadier mercenaries and the shadiest corporation in

same date.

Marvel announced the news in a Twitter thread with star Robert Downey Jr. The date change means that the Disney tentpole will open day-and-date worldwide In this latest installment, the Avengers will also team up with the 'Guardians of the Galaxy', lead by Chris Pratt's Star-Lord.

The Russo brothers directed 'Captain America: Winter Soldier' and 'Captain America:

J

ust five films old in Bollywood, actor Tiger Shroff says that it’s a great feeling to have made his own space so early in his career, and that it’s like a celebration inside when he is compared to an Akshay Kumar, an Aamir Khan, or a Hrithik Roshan.

With just five films to his credit so far, actor Tiger Shroff, though a relative newcomer, has achieved his own brand of stardom — he is called “action hero” or

the world after George, the Rock enlists the help of a disgraced scientist (Naomie Harris) and a cowboy agent (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) as he tries to save George from being killed, captured, or both.

Rampage is a movie with absolutely zero stakes, which is ironic because at one point the Rock says the exact words, “Let’s go save the world.” But this has been a rather annoying trend with his movies recently.

His Fast & Furious character, Hobbs, is basically a superhero; his character in Jumanji literally had three lives, and in Rampage, his character, Davis Okoye, gets shot at point blank range and lives to flex another muscle.

In many ways, it’s like a Salman Khan movie – The Rock even retains his famous tattoos, much like how Salman, regardless of the character he’s playing, protects his bracelet with more passion than he has ever displayed towards a script.

So The Rock gets a resounding hero entry and the film gets several moments designed only to elicit whistles from the least demanding members of the audience. (Times of India)

Civil War', which became 2016's top worldwide grosser with $1.16 billion. Joss Whedon directed 2012's 'The Avengers' and 2015's 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'.

The two 'Avengers' films have grossed nearly $3 billion worldwide. 'The Avengers' is the fifthhighest grosser of all time at $1.52 billion and 'Age of Ultron' is the seventh-highest at $1.41 billion. (Hindustan Times)

“dancing star”, and he enjoys those tags, feeling that “it’s lovely to get an identity”.

His latest release, Baaghi 2, scored the biggest opening weekend collection this year so far, and has by now crossed the $140-crore mark. Tiger has put up a video on Instagram, thanking everyone for making the film a huge success. In a freewheeling chat, the actor talks about coping with failure, being given tags, breaking an image (or not), and getting into a new role in a big franchise.

How do you react when fans compare you with names such as Hrithik Roshan, Aamir Khan, and Akshay Kumar for your dancing, physique, and action scenes?

These are very big stars and the people you look up to while growing up — they are the reason you do what you do. It’s very kind of people to think I’m like them, and I’m very happy that I am creating an impact so early in my career. It does create pressure, but it’s like the celebration is happening inside of me on hearing these things. (Times of India)

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 15, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

APRIL 15, 2018

Fun Times

Archie

Do something productive that will bring concrete re(March 21- sults. Avoid arguments or disApril 19) cussions that will leave you feeling empty. Don't poke the bear when you should be massaging important relationships.

ARIES

Listen to good advice. Put TAURUS time and energy into physi(April 20- cal gains that will make you May 20) feel good about the way you look and the things you do.

Romance is encouraged.

Stay ahead of your compeGEMINI tition. Go the extra mile and (MAY 28- push to get what you want.

June 20) Make sure documents are up to date and that you have followed the rules.

Partnerships will suffer if you are moody or unwill(June 21ing to listen to reason. Don't July 22) make snap judgments or try to put all the blame elsewhere.

Compromise will be necessary.

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Look for better ways to get along with your peers or use your skills, experience and knowledge in ways that will be more lucrative. Check out job opportunities and update your resume.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Don't purchase items you don't need. Trying to make up for something you did should be done with kind actions, not purchases.

Spending quality time with a loved one is encouraged.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Ignoring relationship problems will not make your home life better. Offer solutions that will encourage everyone to get along. Rules and schedules can help eliminate anxiety and stress.

Back away from anyone SCORPIO showing signs of emotional in(Oct. 24stability. Don't take chancNov. 22)

Peanuts

es while traveling or interacting with aggressive people.

Concentrate on personal growth and important relationships.

Plan to have fun.

SAGITTARIUS Participate in an event or take (Nov. 23Dec. 21) on a challenge that motivates you to play an active role in your community or circle of friends.

Calvin and Hobbes

Less talk and more action CAPRICORN will help you avoid a difficult (Dec. 22- situation. Coddling someone Jan. 19) who is being unreasonable is a waste of time. Focus on peace, love and romance.

Looking back should be AQUARIUS enough to prevent you from (Jan. 20- getting involved with someFeb. 19) one who has disappointed you in the past. You can be friendly, but don't be gullible.

PISCES Don't let someone's (Feb. 20- grumpy mood get you down.

Mar. 20) If you do something enjoyable or creative, an unusual opportunity will come your way. Personal gains and romance are featured.