Times Sunday Magazine December 10, 2017

December 10, 2017

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Ed Sheeran picks up an MBE at Buckingham Palace Page 14

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INSIDE

Page 8

Feed a Child for the Holidays

Pg 2

Inside Herstelling Global Outreach Centre

Pg 3

Pg 7

History of Canje Bridge

2 Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Feature

Feed a Child for the Holidays

Just a few of the items distributed during Christmas 2016

A few team members distributing essential items to various children's homes last year

E

very year, the Feed a Child for the Holidays team endeavours to put smiles on the faces of children by giving their love, time and support. This vibrant group of humanitarians enjoys giving back to their communities and spreading Christmas cheer.

Established in December 2007, Feed a Child for the Holidays is a private nonprofit group dedicated to making a humanitarian effort to share the spirit of Christmas. The group endeavours to bring gifts, food items, basic necessities, encouragement and love to the less fortunate children in Guyana.

Feed a Child for the Holidays objectives are to raise awareness of the plight of orphaned children in Guyana and to provide assistance – whether emo-

tional, financial or physical – to under-privileged children, wherever they may be.

Tannylee Fung, Schemel Patrick, Natasha Backer, Teisha Milner, Keisha Assanah, Rhonda Bourne, Maren Oxford, Dionne Cush and Alana Lowton are core team members determined to continue to spread joy and love to vulnerable children.

“This year, as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we hope to reach more children and to garner as much support. Our vision this year is to donate to 10 children’s homes in and around Georgetown, mostly homes we have partnered with over the decade we’ve been donating. We started out as a small group hosting parties for the orphan and vulnerable (OVCs) of Youth Challenge Guyana and over

the years we have grown as we now engage more homes and partner with a number of humanitarians,” Schemel Patrick expressed in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

She added that over the past years, Feed a Child for the Holidays received tremendous support from a number of individuals and organisations and hopes this year is no different. Schemel encourages kind-hearted individuals to show random and simple acts of kindness, not only at Christmas but throughout the year.

“We have grown to identify ourselves as a sort of facilitator of spreading Christmas cheer. At Christmas, persons are always looking to participate in one goodwill activity or another, as an already established group, Feed a

Child for the Holidays provides that platform for persons to make worthy donations to various children’s groups all in the spirit of giving,” Schemel noted.

Via its Facebook page, Feed a Child for the Holidays invites benevolent citizens and organisations to donate. The charitable organisation welcomes essential supplies or for individuals and companies to sponsor a home, executing an activity or donating items of their choice. If you are desirous of contributing to one or more of Feed a Child for the Holidays’ activities, message, call or reach out to one of its members.

“Every year we are fortunate enough to make our contributions entirely from donations by public-spirited citizens and corporate Guyana. We think it is important that we express heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has assisted us in one way or another over the years. Our corporate sponsors over the years have been Germans Restaurant, Sterling Products Ltd., Edward B. Beharry and Company, Ansa McAL, Lasleek Fashions, DIGICEL Guyana, the Sticky Wicket Restaurant and Bar, Leading Edge Guyana and Massy Distributions. We also partner with youth organisations, in the past we have partnered with the Guyana Girl Guides Association

and the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) – Guyana. The response is always overwhelming,” Schemel declared.

Since its inception, Feed a Child for the Holidays has donated/collaborated with Youth Challenge Guyana’s OVC programme, The Red Cross Convalescent Home, The Sophia Care Centre, The Drop-In Centre, The St. John’s

Boscoe Home, St. Ann’s Home, Sophia Sparkle Youth Group, Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre and Help and Shelter.

For updates on its activities and information on how you can help, visit Feed a Child for the Holidays on Facebook or call 687-5363 and 699-7704. Apart from Christmas gifts, the group accepts food items, school supplies, basic necessities and clothing for children.

Preparing snacks for the children

Spreading Christmas cheer

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

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Feature

Herstelling Global Outreach Centre

H

erstelling, a village located on East Bank Demerara, is flanked by three squatting areas and is made up of residents mainly from the middle and lower economic status that are heavily dependent on the sugar and fishing industries for their income. With the eco-

of income while diversifying in an effort to cushion the adverse effects envisaged.

Consequently, in 2005, the Herstelling Assembly of God Global Outreach Centre launched a community outreach and transformation project to tackle the hopelessness that exists among youths in the village.

powering them for further training and employment.

The areas targeted are catering/cookery, information technology and office procedures, electrical installation, sewing and tailoring, joinery and cabinet making, cosmetology, cake decorating and floral designs. In addition, each participant se-

Males and females are welcomed for all classes. This is a session from a cake decorating class

Floral arrangement class

nomic challenges resulting from the falling sugar prices on the world market and the many barriers within the fishing industries, families have over the years been faced with high rates of unemployment, severe financial pressure, illiteracy, idleness/hopelessness among youths and extremely high levels of school drop-outs. These problems have led to many youths becoming hooked on alcohol, smoking, gambling, causal or commercial sex work, abuse and even crime as a way of escape.

Hence, it was and still is imperative that the community seeks out new ways of reengaging and creating employment for the youths to reduce their vulnerability and find alternative sources

However, its programmes were severely hindered as a result of the lack of a proper youth-friendly/safe space, equipment, materials and technical facilitators.

In 2008, the Herstelling Global Outreach Centre, founded by Dr Ravindra Shiwnandan, established a multi-discipline facility, focused on setting up a building for the programme area, an IT lab, a sewing and tailoring room, a training kitchen, an electronics room and a woodworking area. This was further supplemented by an annex building in 2013. These facilities provide an atmosphere which allows for the re-engagement of hopeless youths in Herstelling and its environs through vocational training courses, em-

lected on needs bases has been exposed to training in setting up and managing small businesses. The target group is 16-35 years.

The Centre is fully equipped with an air conditioned computer lab with 25 computers for 30 students; a fully equipped electronic lab for 20 students; a garment construction room with 10 sewing machines for 20 students; a cosmetology room with tools for 20 students; an equipped training kitchen with two stoves, a fridge, two extractor fans for 30 students; a welding machine with accessories for eight students; four other classrooms for didactic sessions; curriculum material for 19 vocational skills areas; woodworking equipment; and an administra-

tive area with computers and copiers.

The school board consists of Dr Ravindra Shiwnandan; Dr Michelle Shiwnandan; Sharmilla Chan Abai; and Peter Christopher Abai.

Over the years, the Herstelling Global Outreach Centre has built a partnership with its community through the Little Diamond/ Herstelling- Farm NDC, the Providence Primary School and the Providence Nursery School in Farm. It has also collaborated with the EU Micro-projects Fund, BNTF and the Government through the Board of Industrial Training.

Recently, 135 youths in various vocational skills graduated from the Centre, bringing the total number of individuals graduating from the Centre to a staggering 1100 – a number that continues to increase.

Courses/programmes at the Centre are offered at no cost. Requirement of applicants is basic literacy and numeracy.

The Herstelling Global Outreach Centre plans to increase the number of cours-

Board members and teaching staff with recent graduates of the Centre

es its offers and to expand its services to Yarrowkabra on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

For more information, call 265-4365. Next course is slated to commence in February 2018.

Christmas dÊcor made by the Centre’s students

4

Sunday Times Magazine

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Feature

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Donating essential supplies to needy families

ope Seals Guyana provides charity in the form of food, clothing, monetary support, and medical outreach to the less fortunate. It is the brainchild of Sonia Hutson, a London-trained beauty specialist/entrepreneur, and Lester Hutson, a nutritionist/entrepreneur.

“Some four years ago, I read an article of a young single mother of three children who was killed in her sleep by her brother who had earlier raped his niece while the mother was out reaping wild cabbage to feed her family.

Her son was also killed when he tried to save his mom.

Her two daughters were left motherless and abandoned.

This article really moved my wife, Sonia, and she asked what we can do to assist these children. We decided

as a family to reach out to the children through the welfare office in Linden and Ms Beckles. Sonia always had a love for charity especially the children homes and occasionally the homes for the elderly, which inspired the start of Hope Seals,” Lester recalled in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

He added that the idea of putting together food items, clothing and money was quickly organised by himself and his wife and fellow business associates.

Hope Seals’ mandate is to support vulnerable families, single mothers and children.

Every month for the last four years it has consistently given to 25 families in vulnerable communities millions of dollars in donations and has partnered with HAP (a US humanitarian assistance pro-

gramme) and its New York Chapter. HAP has supplied footwear and OTC medicine for Hope Seals’ outreaches.

Hope Seals is a registered non -profit organisation with the Human Services Ministry. Its board consists of 13 members plus another 20 ordinary members. The board meets twice monthly to plan outreaches to different communities it identifies through social workers, churches, the ministry of social protection and other entities. Most of the monthly outreaches are financed by the contribution of board members and donations from supporters.

The organisation’s objectives are to create opportunities for voluntary service by its members to the less fortunate and vulnerable people in our society through charitable outreaches; to raise funds through fund-raising activities, charitable donations of cash and kind from both local and overseas supporters, to help the organisation in carrying out its mandate of charitable outreach to the less fortunate and vulnerable people in our societies; to provide charity in the form of food, clothing, monetary support, and medical outreach to the less fortunate groups, such as single parents with children and the elderly; to set a positive example of selfless service and outreach through its members to its beneficiaries in order to create an uplifting and nurturing environment; and to ensure that all beneficiaries can have their basic need for food and clothing met and their human dignity preserved and protected.

“On December 17, 2017

Both young and old of Hope Seals Guyana seek out those in need

we plan to launch ‘Hope Seals Kids - Blessing In A Bag’ where 50 children and 20 families from ‘Plastic City’, Ruimveldt Riverview and other areas will benefit from our outreach work. This youth arm is led by Chelsea Hutson and other children of board members to meet the specific needs of children of vulnerable families who we meet on outreaches. Our motto is: ‘No Child Goes Hungry & Left Behind’,” Lester noted.

Additionally, he stated that the organisation plans to acquire a bus to provide mobile medical outreach services, and also to build a soup kitchen.

For more information, call 231-7512 or visit Hope Seals Guyana on Facebook.

Team members ready to help vulnerable communities and individuals

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Feature

Poonam Singh (Photo

by Saajid Husani)

P

oonam Singh’s effortlessness in her powerful vocals and infectious personality are somewhat a façade. Why? Because she is way more than that. Her concrete determination to become one of Guyana’s most talented singers has met with challenges; however she has overcome these with cadence.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, Poonam mentioned that singing was and still is an art that is embedded in her.

“It's kind of like I was born with it, and I'm sure it's going to stay with me for eternity. My parents do sing beautifully also, however, they only sing Bhajans (religious songs),” she noted.

Poonam recalled between ages 11 and 13 she entered the National Gita Competition three times. She had to recite full chapters of the Bhagvad Gita in Hindi and won all three times not only by reciting it without looking at the book, but by singing it instead of speaking it.

Then in 2011/12, after participating in the GT&T (now GTT) Jingle and Song Competition, Poonam decided a year later to begin doing covers of famous songs, which she posted on Facebook. These captured a lot of attention nationwide and internationally.

Consequently, she started working on original songs.

The first song she wrote was actually the one she recently released, “Christmas Wish”.

The song was written and recorded, but because she was 16 at the time the song was left as is because as a solo artiste, as she continues to be, she lacked the finances to pay for the production of her music. Fortunately,

things changed after she was hired for random gigs and performances in and out of Guyana.

She was able to accumulate enough finances to sponsor the production of her songs. This change in her financial situation finally saw the release of “Christmas Wish” this month just in time for the festive season. Poonam explained that the song is as joyful as she had written it to be when she was 16. It was produced by Drew Thoven and the video production was done by her “amazing friend and skilful photographer/videographer”, Saajid Husani.

Another song the singer was able to finance its production was her hit patriotic song, “GUYANA”. She revealed that although the song said “sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism”, which she mentioned only contributed its words, she had to pay for the entire production of the music video.

Though music is her passion, Poonam equally values her academic pursuits. She graduated with a diploma in Communication Studies at the University of Guyana and is currently a third year law student at the University of London (international programme).

“I don't think that education is the key to success as there are countless other keys to success. However, it is extremely beneficial to have your education because it adds to your credentials, it enables you to think critically and logically in situations and it teaches you to be able to stay determined and focus towards your goals in life. I’m studying law; however I do not plan to become a lawyer. I just want

to be smart enough to make my own decisions and know exactly what I'm doing when it comes to my music career,” she admitted.

Poonam explained she is studying law to complement her music career because when she was 16 she was “tricked by a lot of people in the entertainment industry”. Having a background in law is a security measure because she said when she becomes an international singer she would be equipped to read her own contracts.

The singer described herself as a type of person who does not like to limit herself to just one goal. In her life, anything her heart desires to pursue she pursues, with love. She loves law and she loves singing.

Poonam pointed out that her determination has helped her garner over 47,000 followers on Facebook, which she claims to be the only female artiste to accomplish at present.

But it is not just about numbers for Poonam.

Through social media, she uses her voice to give others a voice as she seeks to empower and spread happiness through her music.

“Music is not something you can just work on it today and then leave it to work again the next month. You have to constantly be at it, because people, your own fans, are going to forget you. One day, I know many people will remember me for not for what I said to them, but for how I made them feel by using my voice. I know that people will be happy and will feel loved after they listen to the thoughts I put down and vocalise in words. I know that one day I will accomplish the greatest reward of all that I am doing and will continue to do, and

that is genuine love,” Poonam expressed.

Experiencing how tough the music industry can be and overcoming those obstacles, Poonam’s advice for young singers is to “work hard”. Also, she said to incessantly post videos on social media of yourself singing or something to keep your fans (no matter how big or small your crowd is) entertained and updated on your music.

“I do not wish for material things for they have no true meaning to me. But how I make people feel through my music means more than anything. I'm very religious and have always believed that no matter what you do in life always has God as your constant because he will never deceive you,” Poonam declared.

The songstress plans to continue to release more videos in the coming months and encourages fans to look out for “something big” to be released soon.

You can get updates on Poonam Singh page on Facebook. To listen to her recent single, search for Poonam Singh - CHRISTMAS WISH on YouTube.

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Literary Corner

Preserving our literary heritage by Petamber Persaud

Sharon Maas

(Extract of an interview with Sharon Maas, Georgetown, Guyana, November 2017. Maas is the author of more than seven novels; her first “Of Marriageable Age” was published in 1999) PP: Sharon, it seems as if you’re back home, in more than one ways.

SM: Well, I’ve been coming back home every year over the past six or seven years.

PP: In the physical sense, that is one way but I’m particularly making reference to your writing – you are beginning to focus more on Guyana.

The last time we spoke, you mentioned you were working on a few titles on Guyana. So far, you have produced four books on Guyana.

SM: Set in Guyana.

PP: Yes, set in Guyana.

In that conversation, some five years ago, you mentioned also that it was not viable to sell/market Guyana in the UK; has that situation changed?

SM: No, it has not changed. The only reason that I got these books published is because I went to a digital publisher – a digital publisher does not have a large investment in the book.

PP: Print on demand?

SM: Print on demand, but mainly digital. In the past, publishers would invest heavily and print hundreds and even thousands of copies and if they do not sell, the publishers lose. On the other hand, digital publishing does not demand a huge investment, so I was able to get back into publishing. Other than that I would still be writing books without getting them published.

PP: There seems to be another reason for the advent of what I would call your ‘Guyana books’. That reason is the internationally famous one cent black on magenta Guyana stamp which was the focal point

in “The Small Fortune of Dorothea Q” – the first book in this series of four.

SM: I wrote that book several years and I thought that it would have a bit of interest in the northern world because it was sold again recently for a few millions [pounds sterling]. But it wasn’t really a breakthrough; it was published by this Bookouture publisher, so I went back and wrote three other books leading up to that book you mentioned. This “The Girl from the Sugar Plantation” is the fourth in the series.

PP: Give a background to this series of books.

SM: The main character of these books is a white woman who married a black man; she was of a high status while he was of a lower status. Actually my grandmother did this and it was quite a scandal in those days – the early twentieth century – they had eight sons, no daughters. I was able to follow these sons and their families through the ages.

PP: One of your themes is miscegenation.

SM: Yes, yes, always.

PP: And you seem to be having fun with it.

SM: I’m having lots of fun with it.

PP: Lead us on, describe this fun process.

SM: Well, like I said, it must have run against every rule of the British Empire – a white man with a black woman or an Indian woman was no surprise… but the other way round is seen as a woman marrying up, bettering her status… so it combines these two themes of race and class.

The same with the classics – Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte – all about status.

PP: We’ve talked a bit about your themes - race and class. There seems to be a few motifs you dwell on – music and nature.

SM: Music is very strong in this book… where the main character is a pianist and through music she finds herself… music is a universal language… music can go deep into a person’s psyche, a person’s soul and lift them up. I really like music as a theme.

PP: Nature – I am thinking Mittelholzer… How nature works for you?

SM: Nature for me is more the feeling – sitting on a beach and listening to the waves, the music of the waves and the birds and the feeling it all give me… even touching a tree, putting your hands in the earth… so I always come back to nature, nature has a healing

property.

I like to write about people who find healing through music, through nature…

PP: All of this seems to be autobiographical…

SM: Well, my whole life is about healing myself really; I had a turbulent youth and was lost for a while and I found a way to heal myself.

I like to read books in which people come out of whatever turbulence and find healing and find themselves - finding who you really are.

PP: Finding who you really are – many of your memorable female characters are going against the grain.

SM: Yes, because the grain is not right, the grain is very rough and they find it rough going and need to get out, to find themselves and their purpose.

PP: We write for various reasons: not only to send messages and pass on solutions… your writing is character-driven and your characters, in whatever setting and in whatever time peri-

od, seem to be dealing with issues that are relevant today like how badly we treat women – sexual discrimination, violence against women.

SM: Yes, this is true. In this last book, there is an attempted rape. This is the issue right now – sexual molestation.

I went through it; in fact, my first job at the Graphic, I think three of us (two boys and myself) on three-month probation, and before the three months ran out, I was called to the editor’s office, Mr (unnamed) and he said come and sit on my lap, but I didn’t and I was fired.

I left and went straight to the Chronicle and was employed right away. At Chronicle, I was allowed to

Notice to Readers

flourish, even got my own page. I was determined to show this Mr that he may shut me out but can’t shut me up…

PP: Recently, I am running into articles dealing with sexual discrimination and molestation in the literary world. You’ve just mentioned one instance in your early life, have you encountered this in your literary life?

SM: No, the publishing world is mostly women, first of all, mostly women editors – I had women editors only.

This publisher handling my books was founded by a man who is very kosher – a good man. He left the publisher he was working with and started his own publishing business, Bookouture, and he began it with women literature only about romance and historical fiction and it did very well and later he turned to other genres including male authors. So far, he is the only man in the whole editorial setup.

PP: Talking about publishing houses brings to mind Jock Campbell who is featured in your new book, “The Girl from the Sugar Plantation” and the ‘Authors Division’ he started to protect the royalties of Ian Fleming and other authors…

Jock Campbell is one of your main characters here; show us how you dealt with a real life person in this fictional work.

SM: Well, I’ve kept the things he did like he was the Booker reformist – that part is true to life, but I did change the name of one of the people he worked with who did some bad things…

But the things he [Jock Campbell] did like showing concern for the conditions on the plantations and how he set about reforming them – all of that is true. What is not true is that he met this fictional character, I created, and their relationship is fictional. But it is based on facts; I didn’t know this until I’ve written the book that he [Jock] had fallen in love with the sister of a prominent businessman/politician… and wanted to marry her but his parents did not approve because she was Portuguese… the upshot was he returned to England to marry a woman the family choose for him – a perfectly suitable woman, to his situation; it was sort of a trade-off – marry her and inherit the Bookers’ kingdom or else… and that is the situation in my book as

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.

well.

PP: There is another real life character in this book.

SM: Cheddi Jagan.

PP: Let’s look at the four ‘Guyana books’ mainly because sugar made Guyana and now sugar is breaking many hearts and homes.

SM: Yes. The plan, if I’m to write on Guyana, is to do an epic – a family saga.

Sugar used to be the mainstay of Guyana; it is what built us up, making us a noted colony; sugar was like the blood of Guyana, so if you’re to write a historic novel of Guyana, it has to be about sugar.

The story of sugar [in Guyana] is intriguing. And the book on jock Campbell [“Sweetening Bitter Sugar”

by Clem Seecharan] was what really got me started.

PP: There are a few other novelists writing on the sugar plantation like Jan Shinebourne.

SM: I know her well; she is a friend of mine.

PP: She wrote “The Last English Plantation”.

SM: I actually got some of my information from her.

PP: Now, is there another Guyana book in the making?

SM: Yes, I have two which I would like to rework and see published.

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

Guyana Pastoral Under the tambrin tree wheh de moon na glow, Laang, laang, laang, she lay, laang, laang She cry, but de wind na blow An dem wraang an straang An dem wuk an dem bruk till fowlcack crow.

Who see who hear when she belly buss, when she mout splash blood?

Only de jumbie umbrella dat poke up e white eye from de mud Under de tambrin tree wheh de sun na shine Dem tek up spade, dem dig deep hole, dem hide she from deh mine.

She puppa look bush, how he hack, how he hallal She mumma call priest, kill calf, pray Krishna Christ Allah!

Nine month since dem saach an dem shout, East West Naat Sout.

Who know wheh she lass, who know wheh foh fine?

Only de cush 'cush ants dat lay dem white egg in she mout.

By Guyanese poet, David Dabydeen

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Feature

crossover.

The swing bridge was

T

On the Canje swing bridge 1936 (qcoga.org.uk)

he bridge that currently crosses the Canje River (known too as Canje Creek), a tributary of the Berbice River, is reported to be the third such structure known to have been built, and serves as a vital connection along the Corentyne Road.

The original structure was built in 1830, a year before the colonies of Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo were united under British rule. A wooden construction, it was built by slaves

The swing span from the centre turned on a single pivot that could be operated by just one person. It would then swing back into its original position to allow traffic to cross once again.

The structure took four years to build and was said to be commissioned in 1898.

However, by the early 1970s, the bridge was considered antiquated and inadequate for the traffic of the time.

According to a 1972 recommendation to con-

The Canje Bridge today

who, it is said, were given their freedom three years before emancipation. They were also given land in New Amsterdam.

Then, in the mid-1890s, an iron and concrete structure, designed in 1891

by English civil engineer Joseph Westwood, was built to replace the wooden bridge. The 336 feet long new bridge allowed for a roadway width for traffic of 17 feet.

Considered a marvel of engineering at the time, it was the largest bridge in the colony then. The bridge was designed to swing open to allow seagoing vessels through.

struct a new bridge over the Canje River, which was presented by the US Department of State Agency for International Development, among other things, the swing bridge had become “drastically inconsistent with the high standard 50 miles perhour design speed of the Corentyne Road on both sides of the bridge.�

While the recommendation advised of a new swing bridge to be built, this did not happen. Instead the current fixed Canje River bridge, some 0.38 kilometres (approx. 1,250 feet) long and 33 feet wide, was built with a 45 feet high

Canje Bridge (1830) (Guyana Gallery photo)

decommissioned in 1975/76 while the current Canje

Bridge is said to have become operational in 1978,

after an 18-month construction period.

8 Sunday Times Magazine

DECEMBER 10, 2017

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Travel & Tourism Entrance to Kako village

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ocated in Region Seven (Cuyuni/ Mazaruni) is the picturesque community of Kako. The village lies on the bank of the pristine Kako River.

This Akawaio community of over 700 residents still upholds its indigenous traditions.

Though residents speak English, within the

community they prefer to speak Akawaio in an effort to preserve their culture.

Kako means ‘jasper’ in Akawaio, the reddish stone found in the area.

Toshao of Kako village is Casey Hastings.

(Photos credit: Bassu Dwarkha) (Cover photo: Kako Landing)

Making cassava bread in Kako

Children off to school in Kako

The majestic Kako Mountain

Scenic view of a landing closeby to Kako

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DECEMBER 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

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10 Sunday Times Magazine Fashion

DECEMBER 10, 2017

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Style Tips for Women

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ransitioning from your 20s look to a more mature appearance can be somewhat challenging.

You don’t want to look too playful, yet you don’t want

A

to dress too serious. Below s with all trends, are some tips on fashion it’s all about how mistakes to avoid that make you approach them you appear older and how to that makes the world of revamp your wardrobe for a difference. Skinny jeans dressier, youthful look.

For the working woman, if you're trying to cover your hips, arms or stomach underneath a shapeless blazer, you're actually making yourself look heavier. A wellcut jacket that nips in at the waist and is shorter in length showcases the most flattering parts of your figure and creates a smooth line down your torso.

being dressed up and given a mature edge. Below are tips for wearing skinny jeans as a grown-up take on a much loved teenage are more than capable of trend.

Black does wonders for trimming a figure and is appropriate for almost every occasion, but as women get older, their skin tends to become paler - and wearing black can create a harsh contrast that emphasizes wrinkles and calls attention to dark shadows under the chin and around the eyes. Add a bright accessory like a scarf or a statement necklace - any pop of colour will lessen the washed-out effect.

Jersey fabric doesn't create the best shape, in part because it's as clingy as it is comfortable. If you love jersey, go for a draped or ruched option that grazes your curves and strategically hides any bulges.

No two men are alike, and body proportions are significant when choosing which skinny jeans will complement you. For more slender gentlemen, opt for looser, more standard versions of the skinny jean – this will ensure your shape is not overly exaggerated. For those with more proportioned builds, keep in mind that more fitted styles can be worn, but consider a roll-up of the hems to balance out your fit.

A short silk scarf tied around your neck can draw unwanted attention to the area. Instead, for a fun look, tie the scarf in a bow (or knot) around the handle of a purse in a contrasting colour. One last piece of advice: Wearing a single pin or brooch on a jacket lapel can date you - since this style was trendy years ago. Instead, use the pin or brooch to fasten a cardigan. (www.oprah.com)

Just because your age is increasing doesn't mean your hemline has to as well. A skirt that grazes close to your ankles may hide slightly saggy knees, but it also tends to make women look wider and frumpier. To find the most flattering skirt length for your shape, look in the mirror and note the slimmest part of the area around your knee—right above, right below or in the middle— and that's where your hemline should hit.

Slimming garments can cut years off your age by smoothing out lumps and bumps. While your shapewear should fit snugly, it's important that it's not too tight, to avoid certain health concerns.

Sizing down will not make you look thinner; it will only make you more miserable. You know you have the right fit when you can breathe and you're not standing in the corner unable to move at a party.

Ripped jeans will lend dimension to the austerity of skinny jeans, incorporating more texture and in some cases, more versatility. Skinny jeans that boast holes and cuts will balance out your proportions effectively when donning this type of denim, ironically alluding a less severe look when it comes to fit. Opt for simple rips on both knees for added dimension and a simpler attempt of this trend.

For casual everyday looks, opt for loose t-shirts and simple trainers. Keep in mind the taper of the jeans and the way it looks on your body overall. Trust your instinct and choose styles that flatter your proportions and features. Straight-cut skinny jeans will add a refined touch and can be dressed up for evening looks.

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Recipe of the week

Ingredients:

1 cup butter (softened) 1/4 cup vegetable oil 3 cups sugar (granulated) 5 large eggs (room temperature) 3 cups all-purpose flour, (13 1/2 ounces)

1 cup milk 1 teaspoon lemon extract Glaze: 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind 1/4 cup lemon juice

Your holiday wish list almost certainly doesn't include a trip to the hospital. Get tips to help decorate your house without having to worry about injuries to you, the kids or your pets.

Method:

Bake in the preheated 300 F oven for 1 hour and 35 minutes to 1 hour Heat the oven to 300 F. Butter and flour a 10-inch tube cake and 45 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in center of the cake comes out pan.

Beat butter in a large bowl at medium clean. The cake will pull away from the speed of an electric hand-held mixer; sides of the pan slightly.

Cool in pan on a wire rack for 15 gradually add oil, beating until well blended. Gradually add sugar, beating minutes.

Remove from pan and place directly well. Continue beating for about 5 on a wire rack or invert onto a rack if minutes, or until very light and fluffy Add the eggs, one at a time, beating using a 1-piece pan.

Combine glaze ingredients, stirring well after each addition.

Add flour to creamed mixture until sugar dissolves.

Brush lemon glaze on sides of cake alternately with milk, beginning and and spoon glaze over top, a little at a ending with flour. Mix just until blended time. after each addition.

Let the cake cool completely before Stir in lemon extract. serving.

Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Keep child and pet safety in mind by placing unbreakable and non-toxic ornaments on the lowest areas of the Christmas tree. Replace metal hooks with ribbon or string to prevent choking and injury.

To hang decorations on your house, deploy a ladder extending a minimum of three feet over the roofline or working area. Ladders should be on level, firm ground, with leg levelers added if you're on an incline. A ladder also should be able to carry both your weight and any objects you're hauling.

Check all electric lights and decorations to see if they're damaged or worn. Cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections may pose a fire or shock hazard.

Greatest Cooking Tips

To make a great sandwich, spread the mayonnaise from corner to corner on the bread.

Instead of placing a chicken on a roasting rack, cut thick slices of onion, put them in an oiled pan, then place the chicken on top. The onion will absorb the chicken juices.

After roasting, let the chicken rest while you make a sauce with the onions by adding a little stock or water to the pan and cooking it for about 3 minutes on high heat.

Do not use oil in the water when boiling pasta: It will keep the sauce from sticking to the cooked pasta.

Home Help Always begin on the right side of your stove, then move clockwise around the room. The stove is typically the dirtiest part of the kitchen, so ending with it keeps you from spreading dirt and grease. (First, soak drip pans and knobs in warm soapy water. By the time you've worked your way around, they'll be easier to clean.)

When wet, microfiber cloths sanitize and clean floors, counters, glass and tile, and eliminate the need for other cleaning products. They're reusable (machine-wash, hang to dry) and inexpensive.

Read labels for lights and other wired decorations to make sure you're conforming to acceptable wattage levels. If your decorations are connected by a tangled web of extension cords and power strips, you may be overloading the circuits.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 10, 2017

Puzzles

Crossword ACROSS

1 Icy rain

6 Mild acid

11 Makes hay 16 Gear

21 More sensible

22 Ring-shaped reef

23 Hazard a guess

24 Oasis sight

25 -- nous

26 Feed the flames

27 Restaurant freebie

28 Walk slowly

29 Lemon cooler

30 Moss and Capshaw 32 Swipe

34 Cone bearer

36 AAA suggestion 37 Impulsive 39 Circumference

41 Change the length 43 Meal

45 Pizzerias' needs

47 Love dearly

49 Zinc -- ointment 51 High-grading

54 Brown songbirds

55 Takes a powder

56 Votes against

60 Most competent 61 Currently

62 Bad-luck bringers 64 "Ka-pow!"

65 Beach location

66 Horror flick extra 67 Grimaces

68 Trump ex

70 Smokehouse hanger 71 Unconscious

73 Nearly frozen

74 Popsicle holders

75 Term paper abbr. (2 wds.)

77 Naturalist John - 78 "-- Street Blues" 79 Rude

80 Basket willow

82 Good for kites

83 Open-back shoe

84 Merlin's profession 87 Eccentric

88 Lifeguard's beat

89 Exiled Roman poet

93 Punk hairdo 94 Tilts

95 Foot, slangily

97 Huge Japanese volcano

98 Writer -- Zola 99 Char 100 Blockheads 101 Cay

103 Hosp. employee

104 Gaucho's nooses 106 Annoying 107 Globe

108 A grand

110 Accused's need

111 Brainy club

112 Said "baa"

113 Inflexible

115 Cratchits' dinner

116 Graze past

117 Flowering tree

120 Close or Miller 122 Binge

124 Weigh anchor

128 Ms. Merkel

129 Thoughtful murmur

131 In the blink of -- - 133 Lots and lots

135 "-- -hoo!"

136 Mushrooms and yeast

138 Monk's cloister

140 Blow a paycheck 142 Groovy

144 More delicate

145 Wassail flavor enhancer 146 Babble

147 Titled Turks 148 Commence

149 Rare viol.

150 Pushed

151 Desperado's fear

DOWN

1 Give one's word

2 Ms. Ronstadt

3 -- Park, Colo.

4 Always, to Byron

5 Bwana's expedition

6 Tending the turkey

7 Aquatic mammals 8 Perch 9 Genre

10 Musical symbol

11 Alley habitues

12 Cochise's tribe

13 Not stiff

14 Hydrocarbon suffix

15 Feudal underling

16 With knees knocking

17 Angus' topper 18 Shadow

19 Matted wools

20 Like Atalanta

31 Model's need

33 Wry humor

35 -- coffee

38 Perforations

40 Flat broke (2 wds.)

42 Sighed loudly

44

46

48

50 51

52

53 54

55

57

58

59

61 62

63

66

67

69

Briefcase item Far-reaching view Buy and sell St. Nick's day Stockpile WWII craft (hyph.)

Burro alternative Swain DeVito's "Taxi" role Low-tech calculators Tugs hard Flop's opposite His and hers Happy Do nothing about (2 wds.)

Sticky Substantive Zodiac sign

72 Conceited smile

73 Medieval tales

74 Garden mix

76 Not widespread

78 Geological feature

79 Ink spots

81 Kind of rat

82 Work crews

83 Like a chimney

84 Process ore 85 Pep

86 Jungle charger 87 Trite

88 Lawrence Welk music

90 Type of parking

91 Grenoble's river

92 -- on (fussed over)

94 Quoting 95 Chucks

96 Cry of dismay

99 German industrial region 100 Studies

102 Bygone rulers

105 Hardhat's support (hyph.)

106 Showy perennial 107 Fishtailed

109 Club for GIs 111 Well-to-do

112 Covered with crumbs

114 Weekend wear (hyph.)

115 Reformation center

116 Eyre's creator

117 Hand warmers

118 Aleut language

119 Edible lichen

121 Repair-bill item

123 Tearful requests

125 Memsahibs' nannies

126 Minute amounts

127 Set free

130 Apple computers

132 "PTI" channel

134 Crisp cookie

137 Neighbor of Belg.

139 Diner sandwich

141 In favor of

143 Narcissus' flaw Solution on Pg 13

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- ENDOGAMY (ENDOGAMY: en-DAHG-uh-mee: Marriage within a specific group as required by law or custom.)

Average mark 35 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 52 or more words in ENDOGAMY?

edgy name node nomad dame damn dean demo demon deny dogma dome done

doyen dynamo dyne omega omen game gamy genoa gnome goad gonad gone aeon

aged agony amen amend among anode anomy made mane mange mango mangy mano

many mayo mead mean mend moan mode monad money myna yang yeoman yoga

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 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

Tech news

P

lans to introduce a "frowning pile of poo" emoji have been flushed from the latest proposals by the group in charge of creating the symbols.

The symbol was floated as one of many to be introduced in 2018, but it angered typographers who said it was "embarrassing" to the group.

The Unicode Consortium pushes out a central list of emoji so that they show up properly on different devices.

It said changes to the "pile of poo" emoji had not been totally dumped.

While the Unicode Consortium curates the standard list of emoji, it is up to individual phone and app-makers to design what they look like.

The official list already includes a "pile of poo" emoji, but smartphone giant Apple added a grinning face to the character on the iPhone and popularised the idea.

That led to a row over whether a "frowning pile of poo" should be added to the character list too.

The symbol has been removed from the latest version of the proposals for new characters in 2018. However, it has been put forward as a candidate for an emoji sequence instead.

Emoji sequences combine multiple symbols into one, such as a waving white flag and a rainbow to produce a rainbow flag.

(Excerpted from BBC)

Tech news

T

he iPhone X is pricey with a US$999 starting price, but LG's new Signature Edition smartphone costs US$1,800.

LG announced the device Thursday morning, which is based on the LG V30 flagship device and will be sold locally in South Korea for 2 million won, according to The Verge. It's made out of ceramic, a tough material that's resistant to cracks and fracturing and was used in other smartphones this year, including the Essential phone.

It features some of the specs you'll find in the iPhone X, including an OLED panel (though it's slightly larger at 6-inches), wireless charging and up to 256GB of storage. LG is also packing premium B&O headphones in the box. It's powered by Android.

LG is only building 300 of the handsets, so you're probably mostly paying for the exclusivity. (CNBC)

A

Apple CEO Tim Cook (R) and Apple chief design officer Jonathan Ive (L) look at the new Apple iPhone X during an Apple special event at the Steve Jobs Theatre on the Apple Park campus on September 12, 2017 in Cupertino, California.

new report from Nikkei suggests Apple will manufacture three new iPhones next year, including a 6.3-inch iPhone with an OLED screen.

Apple's US$999 iPhone X switched from a traditional LCD panel to a more premium OLED screen, which is more colorful, brighter and energy efficient. Apple continued to use LCD panels on the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus.

Nikkei said Apple will launch 6.3inch and 5.8-inch iPhone variants

with OLED technology, in addition to a 6.1-inch model with a traditional LCD display. The iPhone X has a 5.8-inch screen, so the 6.3-inch model would be a good deal larger.

Nikkei added that the LCD model will have a metal back, which suggests it might not pack newer technologies such as wireless charging. Apple switched to glass panels on the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X this year to support that feature. (CNBC)

Crossword Solution

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 10, 2017

Bollywood/Hollywood

Ed Sheeran picks up an MBE at Buckingham Palace

E

d Sheeran has been awarded an MBE for his services to music and charity. The 26-yearold singer looked sharp in a tailcoat as he was presented with the award by Prince

Charles at Buckingham Palace, but breached royal protocol by touching the future king's arm during their handshake.

Ed dominated the singles and album charts ear-

lier this year following the release of his third album.

He's the most streamed artist of 2017 worldwide and supports several causes, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation and East Anglia's Children's Hospices.

When asked about his success on the day, Ed said he thinks it's mostly down to persistence. "I don't have a vast amount of talent compared to other people. I think talent is like 30% of it and persistence, drive and self belief are the other ones, which I guess are all the same thing."

Although he hasn't officially been asked by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, when asked by reporters if he would play at their wedding next May, he answered, "Yeah, why not?" (Glamour)

Bella Hadid and The Weeknd are still ‘totally in love’

N

ot only is Selena Gomez officially back with Justin Bieber, another reconciliation could be on the cards for her ex The Weeknd and Bella Hadid.

The rapper, real name Abel Tesfaye, was spotted leaving Bella’s New York apartment a month ago, and now reports have surfaced that they’ve been “talking, texting and FaceTiming each other pretty consistently."

A source told US Weekly that they never fell out of love. “[Bella] never really got over him. She is not looking to be exclusive with him now, just to be his friend. His schedule won't allow him to stay focused on her—she knows this from past experience. She also knows he is talking to a few girls still. She reads what is put out in the news and that affects her.”

"Bella really missed him,” the source added. “She’s happy with where things are and he is too. They are still totally in love.”

Bella and The Weeknd split at the end of 2016, shortly before he began dating Selena

S

D

harmendra turned 82 on Friday and has no plans to slow down. The veteran actor said he doesn't want to be a lazy person and wants to continue working.

"My passion and love is to work. I love work. Without work, I will be a lazy person. I don't want to be lazy. I want to stay active," Dharmendra said.

Dharmendra, who traces his roots to Punjab, entered showbiz in 1960 with 'Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere' going on to create an image of Bollywood's He-Man, after Dara Singh. The veteran, who will soon complete 60 years in the industry, has entertained audiences with movies of all genres - from the intense 'Bandini'

yourself. Tell me all about it?’ and he told me, ‘Shahid, no word that I say will justify the feeling you will get when you become a father. Just experience it.’

“He was right. It is an amazing feeling.”

Misha was born to Shahid and Mira in August last year. (Hindustan Times)

and 'Satyakam' to potboilers like 'Raja Jani' and 'Pratigya', and as a comic artist with perfect timing in 'Sholay' and 'Chupke Chupke'.

In recent times, he was seen in 'Life In A... Metro', 'Apne' and 'Yamla, Pagla, Deewana'.

Dharmendra, married to Bollywood's 'Dream Girl' Hema Malini, is known for his simplicity, humility and for staying connected to his roots. He said he doesn't like comparison between actors.

"I don't compare. I don't want to said 'Barsaat' in 1995, added: 'I can never reach the level my father did'.

Currently, Dharmendra is busy with 'Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se'. (Times of India)

Gomez. He split from Selena in October.

Fergie on past drug addiction: ‘I was hallucinating on a daily basis’ tacy Ferguson aka Fergie has opened up about her battle with addiction to crystal meth before her time with the Black Eyed Peas, calling it the "lowest point" of her life. In a candid interview, the "London Bridge" songstress revealed that her addiction made her suffer from very serious health complications.

"I was [suffering from] chemically-induced psychosis and dementia. I was hallucinating on a daily basis," she told the news outlet. "It took a year after getting off that drug for the chemicals in my brain to settle so that I stopped seeing things. I'd just be sitting there, seeing a random bee or bunny."

At one point, she started hallucinating that CIA, FBI and SWAT team were tracking her every move and sought refuge at a church. However, the people at the church tried to kick her out as she "was moving down the aisles in this crazy way, as I thought that there was an infrared camera in the church trying to check for my body."

A

ctor Shahid Kapoor says every man should wish for a daughter. “I am thankful and grateful that I have a daughter Misha in my life,” the actor said.

He added, “I remember I was at IIFA and Mira was expecting. So, I was with Farhan (Akhtar) and I asked him, ‘You are a father

She then recalled thinking that if "I walk outside, and the SWAT team is out there, I was right all long. But if they're not out there, then it's the drugs making me see things and I'm going to end up in an institution. And if it really is the drugs, I don't want to live my like this anymore, anyway."

The 42-year-old songstress eventually walked out the church and found out that there was no SWAT team at all, obviously.

"It was just me in a parking lot," she said.

"It was a freeing moment." She added that she was grateful that she once suffered from drug addiction. "Because that's my strength, my faith, my hope for something better," she remarked.

This isn't the first time Fergie opened up about her drug addiction. The singer once told TIME that her drug addiction "was the hardest boyfriend I ever had to break up with." She said, "I dug deep as to why I got there. It's the drug that's addicting. But it's why you start doing it in the first place."

(AceShowbiz)

P

riyanka Chopra has been voted the “Sexiest Asian Woman” in the world in an annual UK poll released in London.

The 35-year-old “Quantico” actor topped the 2017 edition of the popular 50 Sexiest Asian Women poll by London-based weekly newspaper Eastern Eye for a record-breaking fifth time.

She reclaimed the top slot from Deepika Padukone, who had been voted the sexiest Asian in 2016.

Padukone is ranked third this year.

“I cannot actually take credit for this at all. Full credit should be given to my genetics and your optics,” Chopra said, thanking everyone who voted in the online poll for her. “I feel grateful and am humbled. Consistency is key,” she said.

(Hindustan Times)

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 10, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

DECEMBER 10, 2017

Fun Times

Archie

ARIES

Rethink your current di(March 21rection and what you would April 19) prefer to be doing. Consider making changes to your resume or to the courses you are taking.

Emotional spending will TAURUS not help matters. Don't try to (April 20buy your way out of a sticky May 20) situation. Communication with or a visit to a friend or relative who may be down and out will bring positive results.

GEMINI (May 28June 20)

Confusion and uncertainty will set in when it comes to your relationship with a partner, parent or someone who knows how to manipulate you. Proceed with caution.

Emotions will escalate CANCER if you don't put your differ(June 21- ences aside. Get involved in July 22) a hobby or pastime that you can do alone or with someone who shares your concerns and desires.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

You'll find it difficult to think straight. Don't let uncertainty push you in a direction that isn't right for you. Bide your time and choose intelligence over temptation or indulgence.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Accept inevitable changes, and adapt and move forward without making a fuss. Don't put up with anyone playing emotional mind games or trying to take advantage of you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Secrets are best kept that way. Don't leave your personal information or passwords out in the open. Protect your reputation and expect delays while traveling or dealing with authority figures.

Money matters and emoSCORPIO tions will clash. Question ex(Oct. 24- penditures, and make sure Nov. 22) you are on the same page as anyone you are involved with financially. Assess and discuss the situation calmly.

SAGITTARIUS Don't be fooled by what (Nov. 23- others lead you to believe. Do Dec. 21) your research and make deci-

sions based on what you want.

A change at home will improve your life and attitude.

Calvin and Hobbes

Someone will withhold inforCAPRICORN mation or dump additional re(Dec. 22sponsibilities in your lap if you Jan. 19) are quick to voice what you will and will not do. Sidestep emotional blackmail by being frank.

Don't let your emotions AQUARIUS take the reins when discuss(Jan. 20ing matters that can influFeb. 19) ence conditions at home or your relationships with relatives. Get along and be willing to compromise.

PISCES Partnership problems (Feb. 20- will surface if you put too Mar. 20) many demands on others or are overly emotional or difficult. Take a moment to review the situation before you complain.