Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

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2 Sunday Times Magazine

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Times Feature

Providing support and spreading awareness on suicide prevention, The Caribbean Voice (TCV) works tirelessly to reduce suicide statistics

T

CV is a New Yorkbased NGO that has been involved in social activism since its launch in 1987. Currently, it is focusing on suicide prevention and related issues in Guyana and the diaspora, and is working in collaboration with partners such as NGOs, businesses, socially conscious individuals, the media and various ministries in Guyana to further its work in suicide prevention.

TCV is a community based organisation that provides a range of services, including networking, information, technological, coping, self-expression, assimilation, cultural, social, celebratory, promotional, collaborative, developmental, creative, activist, advocacy and production.

The underlying objective of TCV is to allow a forum and an avenue for people of Caribbean descent in the diaspora to maintain connections with their roots while they manifest self-identity wherever they live as well as to connect with and work to empower the people of the Caribbean.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, the organisation’s local contact Bibi Ahamad said TCV’s main activities include suicide prevention via multiple strategies: advocacy and information dissemination (traditional and

The Caribbean Voice team at a past Suicide Prevention Walk in Guyana

in collaboration with a number of other NGOs. In August, TCV held its first ever National Stakeholders’ Conference on Suicide and Related Issues (domestic and child abuse, rape and incest, drugs use and alcoholism), which was attended by over 60 NGOs and community-based organisations.

TCV also launched the annual El Dorado Awards to honour affirmation agents.

Ahamad mentioned

Catherina Islamic Complex and the Sadr Islamic Anjuman as well as other organisations; a national high schools essay contest on suicide prevention in collaboration with Save Abee Foundation and Image Nation Foundation (TCV is also hoping to collaborate with the Guyana Teachers Union and the Ministry of Education); collaborating with Save Abee Foundation and Millennium Sistas to in-

Students in Essequibo join in TCV's 'Walk Against Suicide'

social media especially); lobbying for implementation of programmes by the government (such as suicide hotline, counsellors in schools, implementation of strategies, especially the Sri Lankan Model, to reduce suicide by pesticide; training, such as the Gatekeepers Program), and planning and implementation of specific activities.

An outreach was done in Black Bush Polder, Berbice

that plans for 2016 include launching of a billboard campaign in collaboration with local charity group, Save Abee Foundation, and other entities. Supplementing billboards are currently being erected by the Miss World Guyana organisation,which is partneringin this endeavour.

Activities for 2016 also include a “walks and rallies” campaign in collaboration with the Anna

clude a mental health component to their medical outreaches scheduled for July and September 2016; exploring the possibility of collaborating with Blue Caps and other entities to launch a ‘Train the Trainers’ campaign throughout Guyana, as well to engage in direct training with a number of other NGOs. “As you can see we’re pushing collaboration as the platform that can achieve

the greatest possible impact.

In addition to those named above, we also partner and/ or have partnered with Monique’s Helping Hands, Golden Dharmic Youth, the American University of Research, CADVA, Rights of the Child Commission, while we have explored possibilities and reached out to other groups as well, such as Mibicuri Community Developers, the Peace Corp, the Dharmic Sabha, the

TCV Guyana team includes Ahamad, who is the coordinator, managing director and vice president; Pandit Deodat Persaud itsdeputy coordinator; Gail Thomas,assistant coordinator for Berbice; Keshni (Chandanie) Rooplall, youth coordinator; Devina Samaroo is its media liaison and Chandra Balkaran Watson,executive secretary.

Divina Singh, Carol Ann Lovell and Rayon Mantoos

nificant role in putting suicide prevention on the front burner and getting the media to focus consistently not only on suicide, but mental health in general. The result is increasing awareness and a greater dissemination of information. We have also done over 100 pro bono interventions - the vast majority in Guyana.

“We also believe that we played a part in the realisation of the suicide hotline, which we consistently lobbied for since the launch of our campaign in June 2014.We also note announcements by various cabinet members with respect to placing counsellors in schools and bringing back the Gatekeepers’ Program as well as implementation of a programme to reduce pesticide suicide, for which we have been consistently lobbying. And our media campaigns have generated passionate discussions and conversations on suicide and related issues,” Ahamad noted.

For those who may be contemplating suicide, Ahamad said suicide is never the answer. She added that “it does not end the problem; instead it ends a life and prevents that person from knowing what could have been possible.

It also leaves many unanswered questions and a lifetime of agony and pain for loved ones left behind.”

Berbice High School students spread awareness on suicide prevention

Indian Action Committee, Inspire Inc. and SASOD. “Additionally, we have been strongly supported and/or continue to be supported by a number of private sector entities, including Cara Lodge Hotel, Guyenterprise, Seuria Manufacturing, Galaxy 21 Communications, Gafoors Group of Company, Metro Computer & Office Supplies and Andrew Arts,” Ahamad outlined.

are assistant youth coordinators; Lisa Edwards, Priya Dookie, Antoinetta Phoenix, Pastor Quaicy Henry and Dhanwantri Persaud are also members.

Its Board of Directors are Dr. Dawn Stewart, Nazim S. Hussain, Dr. Frank Anthony and Sixtus Edwards. Spokesperson for TCV Guyana is media and entertainment personality WR Reaz.

“We’re all playing a sig-

Her encouragement to those who are suicidal is to talk to someone you trust and seek help by calling the suicide help lines, touching base with any of the NGOs that focus on suicide prevention or with The Caribbean Voice.

In Guyana, TCV can be contacted on 621-6111 or 223-2637. Visit www.caribvoice.org for more information on the organisation’s activities.

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine

3

Times Feature

Author and advocate Sukree Boodram is known as a fighter: she fought to free herself from an abusive marriage and is a fighter for abused women. Now Sukree is fighting something even more personal – cancer

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S-based Guyanese Sukree Boodram was born Oct. 7, 1966 into a strong and loving middle class Hindu family in Guyana. She resided in Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, until she was 16. While in Guyana, she attended Joanna Primary School and Multilateral High School in New Amsterdam.

She graduated in 1982 from Winifred Gaskin Memorial High, formerly known as Manchester High School, Manchester Village, Corentyne.

She migrated to the U.S. in 1983 and resided in Corona, Queens until 1989. She was married on October 3, 1987 then relocated to Florida, along with her husband. While in Florida, she attended University of Central Florida and graduated in 1999 with a degree (BA) in accounting. She continued on towards a post graduate degree and obtained her MBA from Webster University, St Louis, Missouri in 2002.

She obtained her license as a certified public accountant (CPA) in 2003.

Sukree returned to the classrooms seeking anoth-

A relentless fighter, Sukree Boodram

er degree in psychology, with a primary focus on the behavioural and cross cultural concentration to continue her advocacy on the platform of domestic violence. She graduated with a Psychology degree in May 2015.

A Global Domestic Violence Advocate with the Caribbean American Domestic Violence

Awareness organisation, popularly known as CADVA, Sukree enjoys working towards ending abuse and helping women break free from abusive relationships, something she experienced personally.

She penned her memoir “BreakOUT”, detailing how she broke free from an abusive marriage, with the aim of offering hope to anyone who feels they have no options and shows how difficult choices can lead to new, richer lives filled with promise, peace and happiness.

former active life. My sadness had turned into depression. This type of depression is known as situational depression and it does improve with proper help and medication.

“Seeing a psychiatrist when I was hospitalized was the best thing for me to deal with the depression. I was able to talk openly about by feelings and thoughts. I will continue to take the meds I was assigned to ensure that I do not slip back into depression while I am undergoing this treatment. I feel very happy, humorous and alive again and extremely positive,” she affirmed.

Among the many effects of chemo is Sukree losing her hair. She said she never panicked or got angry, but “simply did what had to be done to get the loose hair out”.

“I thought about what I would look like with no hair. I pondered whether

A port on her upper right chest where chemo meds are administered

insulation. This is the main reason of wearing head covering. We lose a lot of heat from our head!” she quipped.

Sukree noted that a good support system is the key to fighting the disease coupled with a positive attitude and healthy diet. She added that she has the best support system within her family and also the best oncology team at the Weill Cornell/ New York Presbyterian Hospital (Dr. Elizabeta Popa and team).

“This support system allows me to focus on my

am human, I have feeling, I hurt, I feel and I share.

This is how I cope,” she expressed.

Appreciating all the “simple things overlooked each day”, Sukree pointed out that she cherishes even more the love of her family. She receives support from her brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews and even her ex in-laws.

“It is crucial that family is around us with love and support. This is one reason we should try to made amends with any family member we may

Living with cancer

Sukree before being diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, stage 4 of a rare bone cancer

Now Sukree has another battle - cancer.

She was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, stage 4 of a rare bone cancer attributed to children and not generally adults.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine she said that Ewing Sarcomais not a hereditary cancer, rather a cancer prone to only children up to ages 19. It is rare for adults. It is a DNA mapping switch that happens in the body and has no relationship to family or genetics. There are only a few cases of adult Ewing Sarcoma, so scientists do not have much to go on. Sukree is currently being treated with the same chemo as the children, but in larger doses.

“My perspective on life did not alter much after my diagnosis. I am the same person now as I was before. However, making [the] change from being healthy, active and working caused me some sadness as I do miss my

Sukree during one of her chemo sessions

to wear wigs or not and what kind. I wondered how my family would react seeing me bald like this. In the end I accepted that losing one’s hair in the process is expected and it is something I simply cannot change and if I cannot change something I just accept it as faith and destiny and move on to the things that I can change, such as my attitude towards it. I love my bald head and everyone says I have a beautiful head. That makes me feel good. I go without anything covering my head when I am in the Florida hot weather. One thing to note is that my head gets cold a lot with no hair as

meditation and exercise.

I am also not ashamed to share my story and talk about my feelings and treatment. This is all very therapeutic and promotes positive healing. Writing and sharing on my blog site at www.sukreespeaks.com is extremely healing and freeing.

Family support

“The love and support from others helps tremendously. We are all humans with feeling and emotions, we simply can’t expect to not share and bury our feelings and thinks miraculously they are going to go away. Even if we talk and share with one person, it’s healing us. I

be at odds with. My family has been blessed with closeness and we are well bonded. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we agree we all love and care deeply for each other.

“I get food prepared and brought home. I get constant calls if I need anything or how I am feeling. I get nice text messages of love and care and gifts and cards. I am the last in the family and am the baby; they all still treat me like a baby.

I used to not like it, but now I love it. This is another thing I continued to cherish and appreciate, love of family!” Sukree declared.

4

Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

JANUARY 10, 2016

Times Feature

T

his is the year of change. If you or someone you know is an addict to harmful substances, it is time to get on the road to recovery or help someone to do so at the Phoenix Recovery Project – a place that offers support and love while helping addicts to become “clean”.

The Phoenix Recovery Project, located in Mon Repos, ECD, opened its doors on Aug. 1, 2000.

Treatment was offered to men only until Aug.13, 2008 when the first female

son afflicted with chemical dependence could rise from vagrancy, criminality and even degradation.”

Restructuring lives

The Project’s rehabilitation programme attempts to restructure clients’ lives by healing and reawakening the spiritual, physical, mental, and social areas that have been severely affected by the use and abuse of psychotropic substances.

In phase one of its programme, clients are required to stay at the centre for six to 12 months to un-

ronment.

Additionally, during phase one, the clients’ families and support persons participate in workshops aimed at educating them on the disease and treatment of drug addiction.

Group and individual therapy sessions assist families with the recovery and healing process for themselves and the clients.

The spiritual focus of the Project is also very important, and as such the clients participate in daily “spiritual sessions”. Clients can also attend devotions at a nearby church, mosque or temple. Individuals from all religious backgrounds are welcomed to join the Project’s programmes.

As part of therapy, the clients are also expected to maintain their environment, do laundry, participate in sporting and recreational activities and be involved in all aspects of community living.

Support systems

Founder of the Project, Clarence Young

programme was launched.

Notably, the Project offers the community of Mon Repos the opportunity to be educated about the disease of addiction and ultimately experience the “change process”.

The Project’s primary goal is to heal and rehabilitate those afflicted with alcohol and drug addiction.

The staff continually update their knowledge in the field of addiction, through courses, periodicals and networking with treatment.

Its motto is: “Out of the ashes rose the mythical Phoenix.So too the per-

dergo primary care.

In primary care, the clients participate in group and individual therapy as well as workshops on self-esteem, stress management, communication, human sexuality, assertiveness training, relapse prevention, among others.

There are also guest speakers from supporting services, daily physical exercise, meetings, field trips and occupational therapy skills.

In occupational therapy, clients are occasionally chosen to gain firsthand experience in a working envi-

Wayne Roman

In phase two of the programme (known as After Care), clients are expected to return once weekly for a 90-minute group session.

Contact is maintained with clients, their families, employers and other supporters. When necessary, family sessions are conducted.

Phoenix Recovery Project organizes individual sessions with clients and their spouses and/or other members of their families who need to work through issues.

Workshops cover various areas of the healing process including communication, relationships, assertiveness, nutrition, human sexuality, medical aspects of addiction, disease concept (of addiction), relapse prevention, coalsetting, anger management and recovery, self-esteem, money management, drugs and the law, smoking cessation, problem solving, remedial education, and narcotics anonymous.

Volunteers (left) with the project working with addicts

Most of these workshops are held over several sessions to facilitate changes in attitudes, values, behaviours and thinking.

The centre offers an additional care programme that caters to those persons who have relapsed or who may be on the road to relapse. This programme can vary from two to eight weeks of residential care.

Admission to the centre is based on the clients’ need for a better way of life. A willingness to adopt a positive outlook on life, to better shoulder responsibilities anda readiness to participate in what is required of the six to 12 months duration are all necessary requirements to join the Project.

Foundations

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, Clarence Young,the Project’s found-

er and coordinator, who is Trinidadian,said having worked with a few Guyanese nationals in treatment in Trinidad, he was invited to come to Guyana in 1995, and made a promise to assist.

“I did just that in 1996. I became involved with a structured programme at the Prashad’s Hospital. Simultaneously, I was asked to assist the Salvation Army in developing a programme. By November of 1996, I designed, implemented and developed the Salvation Army’s programme in the formative years,” Young recalled.

He added that out of the need to address the dual-diagnosed (substance abuse and mental illness), Phoenix was birthed.

Young disclosed that one of the many challenges faced is lack of funding that

Volunteers help addicts not only physically but spiritually

is vital to the continued existence of the Project’s programmes.

Changing lives

So far, the Phoenix Recovery Project has helped more than 400 persons.

One such person is Wayne Roman who has no qualms about publishing his real name. He said that when he was doing his wrong he wanted everyone to know him so he doesn’t mind publishing his name now that he is making a change.

Roman, 55, migrated to the U.S. when he was just three years old. Life promised wonderful opportunities, however he fell among the wrong crowd.

“I associated with the wrong type of people. I started to sell drugs in the U.S. and became an addict. Honestly, it was fun.

I didn’t have to work and I called my own shots. The lifestyle was hard to quit.

But my harmful habits caught up with me. I spent time in jail in the U.S. and was eventually deported.

I joined Salvation Army’s rehab programme in 1998, where I met Mr. Young who has helped me significantly.

I was in and out of rehab; I would get clean and then throw it away. However, I decided it was time to get clean,” Roman recounted.

Although he had a relapse four years ago when his mother died, Roman happily mentioned that he is “clean” for a year now.

He expressed that he feels he has a “new chance in life and a clearer mind to deal with challenges”.

“Phoenix gave me something to look forward to, not to look back to. That is why I enjoy helping others like myself at Phoenix on the road to recovery,” Roman declared.

For more info on the Phoenix Recovery Project, call 220-6825.

guyanatimesgy.com

JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Times Women

A

biola Abrams is a first generation GuyaneseAmerican author, columnist, speaker, filmmaker and multimedia personality who was raised in New York City. Also a certified wellness coach, Abiola gives heartfelt, no-nonsense, stigma-free advice on self-esteem and self-worth, body image issues, healthy relationships, mental health,

sexual health, and how to live with verve.

The first person in her Guyanese family born in the U.S., Abrams was bullied in her African American neighbourhood for being "the wrong kind of black" while attending a prestigious allgirls prep school as a child and teenager. Today, she accords her unique perspective on culture, community, em-

Her debut novel

The author at a book signing event

powerment and identity to this rich, albeit conflicted, background.

On her Facebook page she describes herself as a “New Yorker daughter of Guyanese parents, and professional big mouthed goddess! I came to this planet to share the secrets of living with more passion and zest than you ever thought possible. For the past 10 years my work has been about women getting to be who we really are. Let’s do it. Life is not a passive experience. It’s a passionate experience!”

Abrams writes books, blogs and columns, and broadcasts TV and web shows about love, lifestyle and pop culture. Current projects include: BBC Radio Entertainment correspondent reporting on celebrity news and relationships, MTV teen dating empowerment coach on the reality series “Made,” blogger and editor on her lifestyle site “Abiola’s Passionista Playbook,” and host/producer of her own award-winning web series and advice blogs.

Abiola's book, “The Passionista Playbook for Rockstar Living”, is part humorous memoir, part fun handbook, about living with passion. “Dare” (Simon & Schuster), a hip hop love story; Abiola's popular debut novel was taught at Amherst College, and her essays have been published in anthologies such as ‘Behind the Bedroom Door’, ‘Dirty Words: A Literary Encyclopaedia of Sex, and

‘A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant and A Prayer’.

In the past, Abiola has hosted TV shows like BET's “The Best Shorts,” HBO's “The Buzz” and NBC's “Source: All Access,” starred as “Miss Picky” on VH1 reality series “Tough Love” and appears as a pop culture talking head on networks like FOX. Recent press includes being interviewed for a feature in Essence Magazine, being quoted in The New York Times about Fashion Week and talking about the Person of the Year on The Judith Regan Show on Sirius XM Radio.

Abiola has written for and been written about in publications from Gawker and Jezebel to Paper Magazine and Self.

She is a lead lifestyle and entertainment content contributor (articles, videos, celebrity interviews) in the areas of love, lifestyle and pop culture, including advertorial and branded entertainment. She has interviewed celebrities such as Patti Labelle, Quincy Jones, Chris Rock, Busta Rhymes, LL Cool J and Henry Louis Gates, Junior.

Clients and sites include and have included: Pepsi We Inspire, American Airlines' Black Atlas, HP, Yahoo, Glam, Hello Beautiful, Examiner and Luv Em or Leave Em. Abiola has given keynote addresses on empowerment at many schools such as NYUandThe New School for Social Research and Howard University. She was featured in the 2010 Sex Bloggers Calendar and as a part of her ongoing safe sex initiative she directed the award-winning and critically acclaimed feminist erotica art film, “Afrodite Superstar”.

Her social issues short films and documentaries have shown in festivals, museums and universities.

The author has a BA from Sarah Lawrence and an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She curated the Chashama Gallery exhibit ‘Hos, Putas and Dragon Ladies: Our Sexuality Remixed and VDay’s ‘Until the Violence Stops’ Film Festival at the Museum of The City of NY and the Museum of TV and Radio. She also hosted the 6th Annual African American Literary Awards in New York City.

Abiola was awarded in the past as the Los Angeles Web Series Festival Winner, awarded for the Best Self Help Book (Black Enterprise Magazine) and for the Top Lifestyle Blog; she has been featured as Paper Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People.

Abiola at the 2007 BET Awards

Recently, she wrote “The Sacred Bombshell Handbook of Self-Love”. In it the author reveals 11 self-worth secrets with assignments to “awaken feminine energy, reclaiming the word “bombshell” to mean a woman who deliciously embodies her mind, body, spirit – and joy”.

From her online LoveBody-Spirit coaching programmes to her new African Goddess Affirmation Cards,

Abiola’s mission is to help women create breakthroughs.

Abiola brings tools and inspiration from her personal history as the granddaughter of a Guyanese midwife and women’s fertility healer, and daughter of a minister to her work.

Visit http:// SacredBombshell.com for more information on the author.

Abiola Abrams

6 Sunday Times Magazine

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Times Book World

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

B y P etamber P ersaud

E

very now and again, significant things happen to signal the renewalof hope.

Sometimes we totally miss or simply gloss over those indications for various reasons. In Guyana, a number of things happened to indicate better times ahead for our literature.

In 2015, two emerging writers won major literary prizes. Imam Baksh won the Burt Award for Caribbean Literature and Subraj Singh won the Guyana Prize for Literature, both entries were manuscripts.

Manuscripts winning major literary prizes is something else to gloat about but let’s defer that to another occasion.

First, let’s hear what

Imam Baksh

these writers/winners have to say about literature and their own work.

(Extract of an interview with Imam Baksh, Georgetown,

Guyana, May 2015, just after he received his award.)

PP Let’s talk … beginnings; where did it all start?

IB Well, the first time I tried to write a novel, I was ten….But I don’t think I got very far.

You see, in those days, I was a lot more interested in reading than writing.

But I kept coming back to the idea of writing, I like the process, I enjoy the process. And during my university days [UG] when I was about 21/22, I had it in my head that I can do this seriously. So I started writing stories which I sent off to magazines. I did not have success for a long time because I was a raw, young writer, developing a skill but it was important to begin the process, to be in the process, to take the process seriously, even to receive the rejection slips/emails. Then finally, around 2005/6, I got a couple accepted in small presses, anthologies. Just about then I had a couple accepted in The Guyana Annual magazine of which you were [and still is] editor and that was encouraging. But these were still short stories. And in my computer, I was writing notes – ideas for stories; I have about twenty ideas/outlines for novel which I have built up over the last twenty years.

PP Which is good groundwork.

PP Earlier you talked about reading…what … type of literature you were interested in, and, did your reading influence your writing?

IB I was always attracted to stories that explored things. So one of the first sets of books I had as a child and that I treasured most were the books that tell you how a child lives in other countries….

Along the way I discovered I was attracted to the fantastic – things that bent reality or broke reality. And this is very innocent – you find it in children stories all the time. We read fairy tales and there is magic; Cinderella and there is magic; Pinocchio – magic. All those children stories are filled with magic.

Magic is motivating. And the monster and the beast like the beast in ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Or the dragon. And you would have to fight these beast/ monster/dragon. And just the idea of fighting these monsters was fun.

PP One of the biggest attractions right now is the Harry Potter series…

IB The Harry Potter series is a good example – there are the mentors and monsters and witches and wizards etc.

Subraj Singh (Facebook)

When I was ten or eleven, I discovered Stephen King. My mother though he would drive me crazy; she said it would poison my mind….I also started reading about the same time, military and spy thrillers like Alistair McLean; these were fast paced stuff. It was something looked down on, what people called pulp fiction, no serious thoughts in them but I found them absolutely interesting and enjoyable.

From Stephen King, I branched out into writers like Neil Gaiman – he wrote comic books at first. I love comics; the superheroes – Superman, Batman.

(An extract of interview with Subraj Singh in Georgetown, Guyana, December, 2015.)

PP …Your entry was in manuscript form… which was entertained by the committee managing the Prize and considered by the panel of judges.

SS I think that goes to show that there are many talented writers who have neither sought out the opportunity for publishing or were not granted the opportunity for publishing. I think having your book published is a big deal but in Guyana publishing is complicated and complex issue. But there are talented people who for one reason or the other have not been published as yet and this does not mean that those works are not

as good as the published ones.

PP Good point.

Writers will always write whether the climate is right or not …I don’t know much of your writing so I will have to ask: where do you write from Subraj?

SS I think all writers write from a personal perspective; we were taught to write what we know and I think even if you write fantasy or surrealist literature, it always comes back to…the core of it is always something you know and familiar with.

Now about writers marketing themselves: I think it is very, very important for writers to share their writing, they need to let their friends read it, they need to let their families read it; they need to go to poetry events and storytelling events and promote the work because that is the only way they will get criticism which is invaluable – that is the way they get to promote their work and themselves and it creates that opportunity to get feedback from the audience and for you get to hear what they think of the work and that helps you to go back, revisit the work, edit, modify and try it again. So it is very important for writers/artists to display their work.

The writings of both Baksh and Singh will help in the shaping of Guyanese Literature.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 2260065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

guyanatimesgy.com

JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Times Heritage

Symbols of nationhood

A

Mace is a ceremonial symbol of authority, used in Commonwealth Parliamentsincluding Canada, Australia and The Bahamas. In Medieval times, a Mace was a clublike weapon of defence.

According to the Parliament of Guyana website, a Mace was used in Guyana’s Parliament on Sept. 10, 1957for the first time. It was made of silver gilt.

When, on Feb. 23, 1970, Guyana became a Republic, the head of the Mace, which depicted British Royal Arms, was replaced with Guyana's Coat of Arms.

The head of the present mace was designed by the Ministry of Information

and Culture.

The original stem, which is 145.5 cm in length, depicts a Victoria Regia Lily, one of the largest water lilies in the world, first discovered in British Guiana during the reign of Queen Victoria.

The stem also includes representations of a rice plant in full bearing and a sugar cane in blossom, representing two of Guyana's principal products.

The website states that on entering and leaving the Parliament Chamber, the Speaker is preceded by the Sergeant-at-Arms bearing the Mace on his right shoulder.

When the National Assembly is in session, the Mace is placed on the Clerk's table, with its

head pointing towards the government side of the Chamber.

When the Assembly meets as a Committee of the Whole Assembly, the Mace is placed below the Clerk's table.

When the Mace lies upon the table, the House is in session; when under, it is a Committee. When out of the House, no business can be done; when from the table and upon the Sergeant's shoulder, the Speaker alone manages.

It was reported that in a speech delivered during the 31st Sitting of the Tenth Parliament it was mentioned that in Jan 1991, an opposition MP had removed the mace from its place on the table.

Parliament Building, Georgetown

In March 1991,at the 45th Sitting of the National Assembly of the Second Session (1990-1991) of the Fifth Parliament, a proposal to expel the MP was made.

While it is unclear from the speech whether the

MP was indeed expelled, protocol involving the ceremonial object is strictly enforced and any acts of disrespect considered heinous.

Then, in October 2014, the Mace was reported stolen. The Speaker pointed

The Mace of Guyana’s Parliament

out to the press that it was removed “without [his] permission, knowledge or consent…”

The Mace however, was soon discovered with the Clerk of the National Assembly who explained that he had taken it “for safe-keeping and cleaning”.

The Mace is always kept in the Speaker’s Office, only being removed by the Sergeant-at-Arms for use during parliamentary sittings or for temporary viewing by guests on tours of the National Assembly.

Public Buildings (Parliament Building) circa 1834

The Mace is placed upon its silver stand on the table in front of the Speaker who sits in the Speaker’s Chair

Queen's College, Georgetown n.d.

8 Sunday Times Magazine

JANUARY 10, 2016

Times Travel & Tourism

Scenic landscape in Yakarinta

Y

akarinta and Kwaimatta are two scenic villages in the North Rupununi where the indigenous villagers hold true to their traditions.

Yakarinta is closer to Annai, and Kwaimatta to Karanambu Lodge – all in the North Rupununi region.

The people in Kwaimatta speak Makushi.

Yakarinta hosts Wapishana and Makushi villagers.

In Yakarinta, there is a nursery and primary school, health post, church, women’s

sewing centre, village office, teachers’ quarter, guest house and a community centre.

In Kwaimatta, there is a health post, primary school, village office, teachers’ quarters and a hot meal kitchen.

Villagers in Kwaimatta engage in farming, fishing and hunting activities, while in Yakarinta villagers engage in farming, fishing, hunting, making bricks and craft (basketry).

They are both quiet villages with hospitable residents. (Photos by Neketa Forde) Tractor heading to Yakarinta

Tractor crossing river in Yakarinta

Kwaimatta Primary School

Students at Yakarinta

guyanatimesgy.com

guyanatimesgy.com

JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 9

Times Healthy Living

O

nions are part of the allium family of vegetables and herbs, which also includes chives, garlic, scallions and leeks.

Onions, like garlic, are rich in sulphur-containing compounds that are responsible for their pungent odours and for many of their health-promoting effects.

Unlike the research on garlic and its cardiovascular benefits, research specifically focused on onion has mostly been conducted on animals rather than humans.

cial nutrients like vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

One cup of chopped onion contains approximately 64 calories, 15 grams of car-

Onions are also a source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C that helps to combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer.

body, which can prevent blood and other nutrients from reaching the brain.

Excess homocysteine interferes with the production of

Choose onions that are clean, well shaped, have no opening at the neck, and feature crisp, dry outer skins.

bohydrate, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of cholesterol, 3 grams of fibre, 7 grams of sugar, 2 grams of protein and 10 per cent or more of the daily value for vitamin C, vitamin B-6 and manganese. Onions also contain small amounts of calcium, iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium and the antioxidants quercetin and sulphur.

Colon cancer: High fibre intakes from all fruits and vegetables are associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer.

Prostate cancer: In a study published by the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers used a population-based, case-controlled study to investigate the relationship between allium vegetable intake and prostate cancer.

They found that men with the highest intake of allium vegetables had the lowest risk for prostate cancer.

Oesophageal and stomach cancer: Frequent intake of allium vegetables has been inversely related with the risk of oesophageal and stomach cancer. Several survey-based human studies have demonstrated the potential protective effects of consuming alliums, as well as reports of tumour inhibition following administration of allium compounds in experimental animals.

Sleep and mood: Folate, found in onions, may help with depression by preventing an excess of homocysteine from forming in the

the feel-good hormones serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which regulate not only mood, but also sleep and appetite as well.4 Skin and hair: Adequate intake of vitamin C is needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair.

Avoid those that are sprouting or have signs of mould.

In addition, onions of inferior quality often have soft spots, moisture at their neck, and dark patches, which may all be indications of decay.

Onions should be stored in a well ventilated space at room temperature, away

Know your onions

Research

In animal studies, there is evidence that onion's sulphur compounds may work in an anti-clotting capacity and help prevent the unwanted clumping together of blood platelet cells.

There is also evidence showing that sulphur compounds in onion can lower blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, and also improve cell membrane function in red blood cells.

In human studies, most of the cardiovascular benefits have been demonstrated in the form of overall diet.

Multiple studies show onion to be a food that provides protection for the heart and blood vessels when consumed in a diet that is rich in other vegetables and fruits—especially flavonoidcontaining vegetables and fruits.

The benefits of onion in this overall dietary context extend to prevention of heart attack. In virtually all of these diet-based studies, participants with the greatest intake of vegetables (including onions) gain the most protection.

The outstanding flavonoid content of onions supports these research findings. It's also interesting to note that onion is most commonly consumed in relatively small amounts along with other foods rather than by itself.

For this reason, it can be more difficult to study in large-scale dietary research studies that involve thousands of participants and rely on diet diaries to determine onion consumption.

Onions are a nutrientdense food, meaning that while they are low in calories they are high in benefi-

Onions and your health

The possible health benefits of consuming onions also include lowering the risk of several types of cancer, improving mood and maintaining the health of skin and hair.

Cancer: Allium vegetables have been studied extensively in relation to cancer, especially stomach and colorectal cancers. Their beneficial and preventative effects are likely due in part to their rich organosulfur compounds. Although the exact mechanism by which these compounds inhibit cancer is unknown, possible hypothesis include the inhibition of tumour growth and mutagenesis and prevention of free radical formation.

from heat and bright light.

With the exception of green onions, do not refrigerate onions. Place them in a wire hanging basket or a perforated bowl with a raised base so that air can circulate underneath.

The length of storage varies with the type of onion.

Those that are more pungent in flavour, such as yellow onions, should keep for about a month if stored properly.

They will keep longer than those with a sweeter taste, such as white onions, since the compounds that confer their sharp taste help to preserve them.

All onions should be stored away from potatoes, as they will absorb their moisture and ethylene gas, causing them to spoil more readily.

Although onions are most often used as a seasoning, you can enjoy them as a healthy side dish.

Onions can be sautĂŠed, roasted, grilled or caramelized, be used fresh as a topping for sandwiches or salads and added to salsas and dips.

When onion is your allium vegetable of choice, try to consume at least one-half of a medium onion on that day, and adjust your recipes accordingly. For example, if you are following a recipe that yields 4 servings, include at least 2 medium onions in the recipe so that each of your 4 servings will contain at least one half medium onion.

10 Sunday Times Magazine Times Fashion

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his week we feature original, classy leather bags and footwear by Leather Land from Guyana.

Doyenne of fashion, Sonia Noel, has created a market via her boutique in an effort to support and promote local designers.

Her Makin' Style Boutique stocks fashionable local and Caribbean designer clothing.

For more information on these chic accessories, call 609-8388.

JANUARY 10, 2016

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Star Times Hollywood

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esse Eden Metcalfe is an American actor. He is known for his portrayal of John Rowland on “Desperate Housewives”. Metcalfe has also had notable roles in soap opera “Passions” and in the movie “John Tucker Must Die”. He starred as Christopher Ewing in drama series “Dallas”, based on the 1978 series of the same name. In 2015, Metcalfe had a lead role as Chase Carter in the movie “Dead Rising: Watchtower” based on Capcom's videogame franchise. Metcalfe also starred as Bradley Suttons in Hallmark movie “A Country Wedding”. The film premiered to 2.2 million total viewers on Hallmark movie channel.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Times Hollywood

Ed Sheeran offends Adele

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d Sheeran has revealed that he accidentally offended Adele at a dinner when she thought he was mocking her iconic flip-phone from her hit single “Hello”.

At a recent dinner, Ed brought up the subject of the old school flip-phone he'd just purchased. At the time Ed hadn't seen Adele's music video for Hello (which sees Adele using the retro photo and was the subject of Twitter jokes and memes galore) when he decided to make a joke about his purchase.

Ed explained: "I'm getting rid of my phone and

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all my numbers. I bought a Motorola flip phone. She wasn't happy about that".

"We went out for dinner and I hadn't seen the Hello video. I said, 'I'm getting a flip phone' and she said, 'Is

that some sort of [expletive] joke?'," he told The Sun. "I was like sat there being like, 'Is it?' Someone piped up and was like, 'He hasn't seen the video'."

(Glamour)

Dakota Johnson: ‘I'm proud of Fifty Shades of Grey’

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akota Johnson has spoken out about her role in the “Fifty Shades” triology, saying she is "proud" of the film.

Speaking to British Vogue, the actress discussed her decision to take the role, commenting, "Do I think it opened doors? Yeah.

More people know my name."

She also said that "I don't need to distance myself from that".

Dakota also discussed ageism in Hollywood, and the tough standards within the industry: "No matter how tough you are, sometimes there's the feeling of not being wanted. It's absurd and cut-throat".

She finished by bringing in her mother and grandmother as examples: "Why isn't my mother in movies? She's an extraordinary actress! Why isn't my grandmother in

hloe Kardashian confirms that her sister Kendall Jenner and Harry Styles are officially dating. Khloe recently spoke up to Entertainment Tonight about the rumored couple's relationship status, "Do I think they're dating? Yes." While hanging around the set of "Kocktails with Khloe" on Thursday, December 7, Khloe commented on her sister and the One Direction member's dating rumor, "I don't know if they're like boyfriend-girlfriend. Nowadays I don't know. People are weird with stuff. So, I don't know their title." Though Khole looked uncertain at first, she then said that she's pretty sure that Kendal and Harry were dating. "But I mean, they were in St. Barts together hanging out, so to me that's dating," she shared.

Rumors that the

Victoria's Secret Angel and the British singer had a romantic relationship began to mount back in December when the two were spotted together in St. Barts. An insider claimed that there had been "something going on with those two for a while" and it was the 20-year-old model "who made the first

move," inviting Harry to join her on the trip.

Kendall, who showed off her enviable curves in a sexy string bikini, and the shirtless Hary were photographed together aboard a yacht. The two were also caught having a steamy moment as they seemingly kissed. (AceShowbiz)

Alyssa Milano and Wendy Williams spar over breastfeeding photo

A movies? This industry is [expletive] brutal."

(Glamour)

lyssa Milano recently sparked controversy after posting on Instagram a snap of her breastfeeding her baby.

While stopping by "The Wendy Williams Show" on Wednesday, January 6, the former "Mistresses" star had an argument with host

and a lot of people thought that it was way too much," said Wendy, bringing up the subject to a discussion. As the breasfeeding picture appeared on the screen, Alyssa quickly responded, "That's not even a bad one."

"I was surprised by the reaction and I was sur-

Wendy Williams over the said picture and questioned why a picture of Miley Cyrus in racy outfit was more acceptable.

"Alyssa recently caused controversy because she was breastfeeding and put the picture on the social media

prised that I then was then put in this position of being a breastfeeding advocate which I love, and I take that job with a lot of responsibility," Milano continued. "But it was kind of shocking that [people] were so opinionated about something that's sup-

posed to be so incredibly natural."

Wendy then told Alyssa that she's "opinionated." "I don't need to see that because I just don't want to," the 51-year-old host said. "I would go to the car [to breastfeed], not on the bench in the front of the bigbox store."

Alyssa then shot back, "Why is it O.K. to show that picture of Miley Cyrus with two suspenders over her breasts? So for you, maybe you've sexualized breasts, where that's O.K." Wendy defended herself, "I don't know why I feel this way... breastfeeding is only a particular amount of time. The rest of your life, your breasts are sexual things."

Alyssa said that Wendy was the one who's "not normal" because all over the world people breastfeed whenever their babies need and it's a natural thing. The 43-year-old even said that she would breastfeed on the show if her baby's there.

Wendy then gave in, saying, "I know it's just my issue."

(AceShowbiz)

Katie Holmes reacts to Jamie Foxx secret wedding rumors

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atie Holmes broke silence on a story published by In Touch magazine saying that her supposed secret wedding with Jamie Foxx was ruined because of possible custody battle with ex-husband Tom Cruise. The 37-year-old actress took to Instagram on January 6 to thank a website which helped her set the record straight on the story.

The "Miss Meadows" actress posted a screengrab of a headline from the website which read, "Katie Holmes NOT Marrying Jamie Foxx Or Battling Tom Cruise, Despite Report." Katie wrote alongside the picture, "Thank you @gossipcop."

With the headline "Katie Shocker: Secret Wedding Ruined," the magazine claimed that the "Dawson's Creek" alum got "married after a secret two-year romance" with

Jamie. A so-called "insider" told the publication, "They've discussed eloping or having a small, quiet wedding in an out-of-the-way place."

However, all the claims made by the magazine were false. A rep for Katie told Gossip Cop that "the entire story is 100 percent untrue." The actress is not planning a secret wedding with the 48-year-old actor and not preparing for a new custody battle with her ex-husband Tom. (AceShowbiz)

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hushali Kumar is an Indian actress and renowned fashion designer. She is the daughter of late film producer Gulshan Kumar. She made her television debut in the music video “Mainu Ishq Da Lagaya Rog” from the film “Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin”, which is dedicated to her father. Khushali is a fashion designer to not only Bollywood celebrities, but also Hollywood stars such as Carmen Electra, Ashanti, Hayden Panettiere, former Spice girl Melanie B and singer Leann Rimes. Her label, Reve, currently retails from over 75 stores 50 being in USA and others being in Paris, London and Middle East Asia. The designer made her runway debut at the Lakme Fashion Week 2012. Even though Khushali has had several film offers, she chose to take her time in appearing before the camera and focusing more on designing.

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Star Times Bollywood

Sunday Times Magazine 13

14 Sunday Times Magazine

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Times Bollywood

Priyanka Chopra ‘feels like Miss World again’ No security reduction for P Bollywood celebs: Mumbai Police

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arlier in the past week, a report stated that the Mumbai Police have decided to reduce security levels of various Bollywood celebrities, including Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. The report also stated that for celebs like Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Rajkumar Hirani, security would be completely removed as they feel it's "unwanted".

However, the Mumbai Police department has now denied such claims.

According to a report on

Times Now channel, a statement from the police says that they haven't taken any such decision of reducing or abolishing security for any Bollywood celebrities.

According to earlier reports, celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Lata Mangeshkar and Dilip Kumar would continue to receive round-the-clock security since they are national icons.

Further updates over this issue are expected.

(Times of India)

riyanka Chopra recently became the first South Asian actress to bag the Favourite Actress in a New TV Series award at the 2016 People Choice Awards for her performance in her Hollywood debut, “Quantico”.

Speaking to Mirror from Los Angeles, the actress exulted, "I felt like Miss World all over again. I know my daddy is looking down at me and smiling."

The 33-year-old actress-singer beat TV heavyweights Emma Roberts, Jamie Lee Curtis, Lea Michele and Marcia Gay Harden to bag the award and admitted to being "a wee bit" nervous, tired and hungry before the big moment. "I landed in LA in the morning after a 14-hour flight. My team had 200 dresses laid out for me. I decided to go as a disco ball," she says, alluding to the sparkly Vera Wang outfit she chose for the night.

"Being a Hindi film actor for 13 years has trained me well, giving me the confidence to accept victory and loss with a smile… That's the attitude I went with."

Backstage at the awards, she was chomping on her favourite cheese burgers and since she didn't really know anyone there, having only seen

them on TV or in films, she stuck to her mother (Madhu Chopra) and costar Johanna Brady for company.

"Then there was Ellen Pompeo who I am fond of and have grown close to," she says. She had struck up a friendship with the “Grey's Anatomy” star when both of them figured in ABC's “Leading Ladies Wall of Fame” last year.

The actress was joined by John

Stamos, whose name was announced alongside hers as the winner in the 'Favourite Actor in a New TV Series' category for “Grandfathered”.

"I was very comfortable around John as I had met him last year, when I was prepping for 'Quantico'," the actress says. In her acceptance speech, she had said, teary-eyed, "I feel fortunate to be standing alongside amazing people today." (Times of India)

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petition filed in the Bombay High Court recently sought to restrain Maharashtra government from releasing Bollywood actor Sanjay

Dutt, sentenced to five years in jail in the 1993 bomb blasts case, before the end of his prison term. The government has allowed remission of the actor’s sentence by 18 months.

Pradeep Bhalekar, the

petitioner, alleges that Dutt is getting a favour and there are 27,740 others prisoners in the state who deserve to be released on the same ground. The petition would come up for hearing next week, he said.

The petition also levels an allegation against a senior prison official that he favoured Dutt and demands an inquiry into the official’s assets. According to the state home department, Dutt will walk free on February 27. His jail term was reduced by 18 months on account of his good behaviour and work done by him in prison.

The actor has spent three-and-half years in jail, including the period spent as an under trial. Dutt was convicted for illegal possession of an automatic assault rifle, a part of cache of arms and ammunition that landed ahead of 1993 Mumbai serial blasts in which 257 people were killed. (Hindustan Times)

John Abraham: ‘In my life, the struggle will go on’

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ohn Abraham feels that his journey in Bollywood hasn’t been a cakewalk.

However, now, the actor, who apparently struggled to prove his mettle as a performer when he transitioned from modeling to acting, has become a name to reckon with as a producer and as an actor. He gave Ayushmann Khurrana a great launch with “Vicky Donor” (2012).

“I saw an article in some paper one day, which was about some 30 actors with their fathers, mothers and godfathers, and I just smiled. My face wasn’t there. And these were new actors. In my life, the struggle will go on,” says John, who feels that he is strong enough to keep going.

“The biggest strength that I have is my conviction. It’s really strong. The only thing that picks me up when I’m down and out is the fact that I’ve convinced myself that I am the best,” he adds.

John feels that there’s been a fresh wave of content in the film industry. “There’s been a change in terms of the kinds of movies that are being made. There are more films that

have made a difference in the recent past.

Some of them are beautiful. So, I do see a change, and I wish there’s more of it,” says the actor/producer.

John, who has also done an MBA, was a media planner before he entered the movie business. And his knack for marketing is evident from the way he promotes his productions. (Hindustan Times)

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Sunday Times Magazine

15

Times Trends

Trending Now

Ossie O

Star of the week

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he celebrities are all “cray” (crazy) for glittery “icicles” for the hair that can add a sparkle and a bit of 1990s nostalgia to your look.

The hair extensions are definitely on trend with Beyoncé, Ke$ha and actress Whitney Port, who have all been spotted sporting tinsel in their locks recently.

Singer Kesha is one of the many celebrities rocking the trend

O Add glitter clip-in extensions to create icicle hair

Just a few 'icicles' in dark hair and you have the perfect evening look

Sparkly hair is the year's most recent chic look

Beyonce wearing glittery tinsel in her hair

ssie Nedd, known popularly as Ossie O, is famous for his unique voice. Ossie was born May 9 in Ann's Grove on the East Coast of Demerara. His main influence as a young boy was Michael Jackson. Ossie performed for the first time on stage at age 11 at the St. Roses High school rendering the Whitney Houston classic, “I believe the children are our future”, and received a standing ovation. From that moment, his love for poetry and song writing began. Years later, while at the University of Guyana, he performed at an annual music feature, ‘Talent Festival’, in 1998, singing the Indian hit song “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” along with an East Indian female friend, and was hailed on campus as a cultural icon and by local newspaper editorials as playing a significant part in mending ethnic groups together. In 2001, the Theatre Arts Awards nominated Ossie O for the Best Male Singer Award,which he wonfor the song “Hooked on your love”, his first recorded song. He later won the, R N B Flavacompetition, with the same song, which he said he penned as a ballad for his first love. In 2003, Ossie O got the opportunity to serenade Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child and once again hit the newspapers. In 2005, he penned the jingle lyrics for local singer Timeka Marshall who won the GT&T Jingle Competition, the first competition of its kind. He is one of the many artistes signed to the Kross Kolor label, and has recorded a few songs that bring out his versatility. Awellrounded musician, Ossie also plays the acoustic guitar (which has become his trademark), the recorder, piano, harmonica and drums. In his leisure time, the singer, who is also artistically inclined, sketches portraits and cartoons. He is also a music teacher by profession and has often described teaching as the best job in the world.

16 Sunday Times Magazine

JANUARY 10, 2016

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Times Art

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Perseverance and hard work essential he says

verseas-based Guyanese artist Walter Gobin, who recently earned gold at the 2015 National Drawing Competition, believes that talent plays a major role in being an artist. However, an artist still needs to work diligently and practice constantly in order to hone his/her talent.

Gobin hails from Grove on the East Bank of Demerara and lived in Mahaica, East Coast of Demerara, for a number of years.

He taught art in Guyana at Bartica, Buxton, Mahaicony, Mahaica, and then in the Bahamas,where he moved, for the past 20 years. His career as an art teacher took him to Bahamas, where he lived and painted for two decades before finally settling in Canada.

Although now retired from teaching, Gobin divides his time with photography, drawing, painting sceneries and portraits. He also actively participates in exhibitions in Canada, Guyana and The Bahamas.

“The spark was lit for art at Central High School in Sixth Form by Mr. John Criswick, who also nurtured some wellknown Guyanese artists such as Angold Thompson. Art was my main area of study at Teachers’ Training College. I then continued with practicing art on my own and reading every art book I could find,” he recalled in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

After refining his artistic talent, Gobin took part in sev-

eral national exhibitions,and self-produced a series of colouring books on Guyana, which are also printed and sold locally.

Some of the artist’s exhibitions include a one-man show in Freeport, Bahamas (2011);he has participated in annual group shows in Freeport for the past 15 years. Also, the Bahamas National Exhibition; in Canada at Guyana Day sponsored by Guyana Consulate, Brampton's Beaux Arts; Newcomers Award in Guyana while in college, andat several national exhibitions in Guyana, even while in high school.

Notably, Gobin has won several awards, including gold medals for entries in the National Drawing Competition 2008 and 2015.

Now he hopes that his retirement will give him the chance to pursue several art projects. He would like to “reboot” his colouring books; paint and draw using a variety of media (oil paints, oil pastels, chalk pastels, pencils, pen and ink, charcoal, scratchboard); invest more in his photography; work on doing an exhibition at Castellani House (Guyana); cartooning; continue with volleyball, table tennis and tai chi; and continue to build/add on his resource materials.

“I love to paint people with fascinating range of colours on their faces and people in everyday walks of life. Also, I like to capture the beauty of various sceneries (where I can add or delete) places and nature. I get my inspiration from

Artist Walter Gobin

everything: people in their daily goings-on, sceneries, nature, shapes, colours,light,reflections, shadows – they all give me a perspective on my art,” the artist expressed. “[W]ork to improve your skills, attend art classes and practice regularly. Experiment with various materials and ideas. Build your resource materials from early on. Enter competitions and not be afraid of “hard knocks”. Visit exhibitions. Perseverance and hard work can payoff in this tough art market,”Gobin advises young artists.

For more info on the artist, visit http://waltergobin.weebly.com (Cover photo: "Harpy Eagle")

"Washing in the Creek"

"Jaguar in Repose"

"Parika by the River"

"The Sign Painter"

"Poinciana"

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 17

Times Tech

Apple Rumours

No audio jack on iPhone 7; launch with wireless earpods iPhones via Bluetooth.

The revamp could mark a move away from headphones as we know them and a shift toward wireless or Lightning-compatible listening devices.

Apple made a similarly controversial switch in

T

he latest iteration of the iPhone is likely to do away with a headphone jack when the device hits shelves this fall, sources within Apple’s supply chain have confirmed.

Tech news

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A

Tech news

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2013 regarding compatibility problems, bundling and document authentication for its Windows OS and Microsoft Office applications, the SAIC said in 2014.

"Microsoft has always been a favourite target worldwide for antitrust action, some of it well deserved and some of it not," said Laura DiDio, a research director at Strategy Analytics. "The EU, for in-

jack.

Other rumoured features of the iPhone 7 include a strengthened waterproof frame, edgeto-edge display and a larger 256 GB storage size option on the iPhone 7 Plus.

(Entrepreneur)

would handle both charging and audio output, Mac Rumors reports.

Apple is also rumoured to be releasing its own wireless headphones, which would connect to

China levels antitrust allegations against Microsoft

hina's State Administration for Industry and Commerce on Tuesday launched the latest in a series of investigations against Microsoft for possible violations of the country's antimonopoly law.

Back in July 2014, about 100 SAIC officials burst into four Microsoft offices in various parts of China and copied contracts and records, downloaded data from company servers, and questioned executives.

The latest probe seeks answers to major questions arising from the data seized, according to news reports.

SAIC wants Microsoft to submit a complete explanation for problems discovered in the data, according to reports.

China had suspected Microsoft of violating its antimonopoly laws since June

Tech BYTE

In a bid to make the iPhone 7 thinner and improve audio quality, Apple will seal the jack in favour of an all-in-one Lightning connector (as used on current iPhone models) that

2012 when it abandoned its 30-pin chargers in favour of Lightning connectivity on the iPhone 5.

At the time, the company launched an adapter to ease the transition, as it is also rumoured to be doing in the case of the audio

stance, has repeatedly gone after them."

SAIC received a complaint from an unnamed company in June 2013 alleging Microsoft had failed to fully disclose information related to the Windows OS and the Microsoft Office suite, creating problems with interoperability, tiein sales and document certification, PaRR reported.

(Tech News World)

Consumer Electric Show 2016

ach year, the biggest technology sphere and online tech websites as well. companies from around the globe Yahoo Tech has so far previewed weararrive in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ables, cars, accessories and laptops at CES, to showcase the latest gadgets and innova- while Mashable chose several smart devictions at the CES show. es, cars, PC tech, and audio; TVs, cameras Samsung, LG, Sony, Fitbit, Netflix and others hold press conferences at the show to announce some of their key products and services for the next year.

And when all of that is done, the public descend on the convention centres to go hands-on with the latest gadgets and tech products.

Cars, entertainment devices and TV innovations are some of the more popular features of the tech Oculus Rift VR at CES 2016 show-and-tell.

According to Express UK, some 175,000 and VRs for its best in show. people attend the consumer electronics CES will run from January 6 to January event each year. Many come from the blogo- 9 this year.

Ehang 184 drone for your personal air transport

s might be expected, there are a lot of drones on display this week at CES. Almost all of them have one thing in common, however: people can't ride in them.

"Almost all" – there is one exception.

Ehang's 184 AAV (Autonomous Aerial Vehicle) is designed to carry a single human passenger, autonomously flying them from one location to another.

The idea behind the Chinesebuilt 184 is that users will simply get in, power it up, and select their destination using a 12-inch

touchscreen tablet display; they

then press the "take-off" button.

The drone's automated flight systems will take over from there, managing tasks such as communication with air traffic control and other aircraft, obstacle avoidance, and of course navigation – it will always choose the fastest yet safest route between its present location and its destination.

Failsafe systems will reportedly take over in the event of malfunctions, plus passengers can get the drone to stop and hover in place if needed.

It also has a trunk for storing things like a backpack or delivery items. Other features include full

interior and exterior lighting, air conditioning, a 4G internet connection, and gull-wing doors.

According to Gizmag, the 184 is said to be already fully functional, with a worldwide series of demo flights scheduled to begin soon.

The company claims that it should be commercially available later this year, priced somewhere between US$200,000 and $300,000.

184, incidentally, stands for "one passenger, eight propellers, four arms."

18 Sunday Times Magazine

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Times Home & Cooking

Recipe of the Week

Baked Blooming Onion Ingredients

1 large yellow onion ⅔ cup Panko breadcrumbs

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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning ½ tsp paprika ¼ tsp sea salt 2 egg whites

very year, some home design trends stand out more than others to become popular among home designers, home decorators and home owners. House Beautiful magazine looks at a few trends arising as the new year begins...

2016, predicts House Beautiful, is the year of the statement pendant; pretty pendants that draw the eyes upwards every time

Method

This year, a room in your home should have a pedestal stand, one of the year’s stars. Ideal for exhibiting a sculpture, plant or other prized possession

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Use a large knife to cut off the top about ¼-inch of the onion until a few of the inside layers are exposed. Be careful to cut the top side, not the root side. Peel the outermost layer of the onion down to the root, leaving the root as is.

Lay the onion cut side down on the cutting board. Then use a knife to section the onion into 16ths, beginning with your knife ⅛-inch away from the root and cutting straight down.

You can cut more sections if you have an especially large onion.

Once all cuts are complete, turn the onion over and set on a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet. The onion will fall open, but you’ll also want to use your fingers to separate

the onion petals and open it completely.

In a small, combine panko, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and salt. Whisk the egg whites together in a separate bowl.

To coat the onion, start in sections. Coat each onion petal with egg whites and then sprinkle liberally with the panko mixture.

Work from the bottom to the top in each section, and then turn the onion to work on the next section.

Brush the entire onion with one more layer of egg white and sprinkle the mixture over the entire onion once done with the sections.

Bake covered with aluminium foil for 5 minutes then uncovered for an additional 1015 minutes or until the onion is tender and the edges are browned.

Serves 6-8

GREATEST COOKING TIPS

A Make your bed with more than solid coloured or plain white sheets; 2016 aims to add pizzazz to your bedroom linens with pops of colour

n oven that hasn’t been preheated may not drastically affect casseroles, but it will have a noticeable effect on baked goods. Placing baked goods in ovens that haven’t reached the specified temperature can cause problems with texture, colour, and rise. Baked goods can also end up “done” long before the rise is complete or before they’ve sufficiently browned. The best advice: Always preheat to avoid having any surprises emerge from your oven.

When left in the pan too long, the steam inside muffins or cupcakes can’t escape and they sit in the pan and sweat, which leaves you with a wet base.

Instead, let them cool 5 minutes in the pan, and then transfer them to a wire rack. Cooling on a wire rack allows air to circulate around them, letting the steam escape and leaving you with muffins and cupcakes that have a delicious crumb.

V

HOME HELP

inegar does not stop coloured clothes from bleeding. The Good Housekeeping Research Institute tried soaking a garment in a vinegar or salt-and-water solution to stop the bleeding, but with no success. The best you can do is wash in cold water, separately or with other similar colours.

Flooded floors can be quickly mopped up by using newspapers to absorb the water.

Insects in earth can be killed with a spoonful of mustard in a gallon of water. This is effective with potted plants.

If windows are very dirty, wipe them first with a damp cloth.

Then, wipe again with a cloth dipped in methylated spirit. No polishing is required.

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Sunday Times Magazine19

Family Times

PARENTING

How I found the bright side as a widow mom

JOKES Don't think terrific explosion occurs in a gunpowder factory, and once all the mess has been cleared up, and inquiry begins. One of the few survivors is pulled up to make a statement.

"Okay Simpson," says the investigator, "you were near the scene, what happened?"

"Well, it's like this. Old Charley Higgins was in the mixing room, and I saw him take a cigarette out of his pocket and light up."

"He was smoking in the mixing room?" the investigator said in stunned horror, "How long had he been with the company?"

"About 20 years, sir" "20 years in the company, then he goes and strikes a match in the mixing room, I'd have thought it would have been the last thing he'd have done."

"It was, sir."

A

Measuring the pole wo men are trying to measure a telephone pole. They keep trying to climb it and keep sliding down. Along comes this really big, muscle-bound guy and says, "Hey, what are you guys doing?"

The two say, "We're trying to measure the height of this pole."

The guy wraps his arms around the pole, pulls it out of the ground, lays it down and measures it.

Then he picks it up, puts it back in the ground, says "40 feet" and walks away.

The first man says to the other, "What a stupid idiot - we wanted the “height”, not the length."

T

Instructions n case you needed further proof that the human race is doomed, here are some actual label instructions on consumer goods: - On a Sears’s hair dryer: Do not use while sleeping.

- On a bag of Fritos: You could be a winner! No purchase necessary. Details inside.

- On a bar of Dial soap: Directions: Use like regular soap.

- Some Swann frozen dinners: Serving suggestion: Defrost.

- On a hotel-provided shower cap in a box: Fits one head.

- On Tesco's Tiramisu desert: Do not turn upside down. (Printed on the bottom of the box.)

- On Marks and Spencer Bread Pudding: Product will be hot after heating - On packaging for a Rowenta Iron: Do not iron clothes on body - On Boot's “CHILDREN's” Cough Medicine Do not drive car or operate machinery - On Nytol (a sleep aid): Warning: may cause drowsiness - On a string of Christmas lights: For indoor or outdoor use only.

- On a food processor: Not to be used for the other use.

- On Sainsbury's Peanuts: Warning: contains nuts - On an American Airlines packet of nuts: Instructions: open packet, eat nuts.

- On a chainsaw: Do not attempt to stop chain with your hands.

Now two and a half years after becoming a widow mom, I can function in the world with other people and actually have a good time

By Natalie Altieri Part II

N

ow, two and a half years after becoming a widow, we are in a better place. I can function in the world with other people and actually have a good time. I think my son can see that as well. At almost 3 years old, he has become quite the motor mouth, and I can communicate with him. I can say that I am definitely present with him. I no longer feel like I am hollow inside. That helps make me a better parent.

Like most working mothers, I feel guilty that I have to work so much and am not able to be with him like my

mother was with me. I have three jobs: one full-time job as a copywriter and two online jobs as a writing advisor and adjunct writing professor. It takes up much of my time. But I have support: my mother cares for him when I am at work, and he is going to nursery school to interact with other kids. My late husband's family also helps when I am in a pinch. I learned to ask for help.

I show him pictures of his father, and he says "daddy" when he sees them. Some times are more difficult than others. Just recently at a friend's birthday party, my son saw my friend's boyfriend and repeatedly called him "daddy." I said, "John, that is not your daddy." But he continued to call him that while playing with balloons.

Then, about a week later, he saw our neighbours, a young couple, and said, "There is mommy and daddy." My heart sunk at that very moment. (TO BE CONTINUED)

STORY TIME

The Tale of Echo H

era, the Queen of Mt. Olympus, cast a spell over her servant Echo for talking too much. As a punishment, Echo could henceforth only repeat what someone else said.

Poor Echo! She was in love with handsome Narcissus, and yearned to tell him

I

so! One day Echo saw Narcissus admiring himself in a clear pond. Looking at his reflection, he vainly said to the face in the water, "I love you."

Echo repeated, "I love you," and meant it. But Narcissus thought it was his reflection that spoke and stood gazing at himself until he died and Hermes led him away to the Land of the Dead.

Echo pined for him until she too, faded away.

All that was left of her was her voice that can still be heard in certain hollow places, senselessly repeating the words of others.

(A Greek Myth)

By Grammar G

Indigenous origins

T

hat English language has borrowed – and continues to borrow – from other languages is a wellknown and documented phenomenon that is just one characteristic of language.

While most know of its western (Latin, Greek and French) borrowings, there are a world of languages out there from which other words have been adopted and adapted into English.

Arriving in what has been named the “New World”, European explorers and invaders discovered previously unknown peoples, places, animals, plants and lifestyles that required a completely new vocabulary in their English language.

Let’s look at a few of undoubtedly many such others from the indigenous Americans of the Caribbean, Central and South America…

From the Aztecs come “chocolate” (xocolatl); from the Maya “cigar” (sik'ar:

Reflections Solitude

Laugh, and the world laughs with you; Weep, and you weep alone; For the sad old earth must borrow its mirth, But has trouble enough of its own.

Sing, and the hills will answer; Sigh, it is lost on the air; The echoes bound to a joyful sound, But shrink from voicing care.

Rejoice, and men will seek you; Grieve, and they turn and go; They want full measure of all your pleasure, But they do not need your woe.

Be glad, and your friends are many; Be sad, and you lose them all, There are none to decline your nectared wine, But alone you must drink life's gall.

Feast, and your halls are crowded; Fast, and the world goes by.

Succeed and give, and it helps you live, But no man can help you die.

There is room in the halls of pleasure For a large and lordly train, But one by one we must all file on Through the narrow aisles of pain.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

‘smoke'), and xoc “shark”.

From Cariban language comes “barbecue” (Carib barbricot); “caiman” (acayuman); “chigger” (chigo); curare (kurari); hurricane (huracan) ‘his one leg' - the name of a god, and “maize”from Carib mahiz.

The Taino and Arawak languages provide “cassava” (caçábi), “potato” (Taino batata); “savannah” (zabana); “hammock”, “mangrove”(mangle) and (Arawak) yucca; cacique (Arawak kassequa 'chief'); iguana (Arawak iwana)and

tobacco (Arawak tzibatl).

In fact, the potato (batata) is originally from the Inca of Peru who were the first to cultivate the crop around 8,000 BC to 5,000 B.C (of which there are said to be almost 4,000 varieties). Today it is considered the fourth largest food crop, following rice, wheat, and maize, and is cultivated in many other parts of the world.

The Incas (Inca: Quechua inka) had many uses for the potato other than putting a bunch of them in the pot for dinner. These included placing raw slices on broken bones to promote healing and measuring time by correlating units of time by how long it took for potatoes to cook.

20 Sunday Times Magazine

JANUARY 10, 2016

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Times Sunday Puzzle

Figure out the pattern in the first three examples and use it to figure out the last.

1, 2, 3 (s) 4, 5, 6 (f) 7, 7, 1 (f) 3, 9, 7 (?) see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

see solution on page 23

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 21

Times Kids

Creature Corner

GEOZONE

S

South American Grey Fox

T

he South American Grey Fox (Pseudalopex griseus) can be found on the plains, grasslands, forest edges and the foothills of mountain ranges of Chile, Peru and Argentina in southern South America.

In fact they are also known as the Argentine Grey Fox, Patagonian Fox, Chilla or Grey Zorro.

In their Latin name, Griseus means grey.

Argentine grey foxes are small, weighing at

around 2.5 to 5.45 kg (5.5 to 12.0 lb), and average65 to 110 cm (26 to 43 in) in length including a tail. They eat rabbits, birds and rodents as well as arthropods, bird eggs, reptiles, fruit and carrion.

A young or baby of an Argentine grey fox is called a ‘cub’, ‘kit’ or ‘pup’. The females are called ‘vixen’ and males ‘reynard’, ‘todd’ or ‘dog’. An Argentine grey fox group is called a ‘leash’ or ‘skulk’.

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

Every column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Every 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all please see solution on page 23

digits 1 through 9.

Sinkholes

inkholes are common where the rock below the land surface is limestone, carbonate rock, salt beds, or rocks that can naturally be dissolved by groundwater circulating through them, notes the USGS Water Science School.

As the rock dissolves, spaces and caverns develop underground.

Sinkholes are dramatic because the land usually stays intact for a while until the underground spaces just get too big. If there is not enough support for the land above the spaces then a sudden collapse of the land surface can occur.

Sinkholes can vary from a few feet to hundreds of acres and from less than 1 to more than 100 feet deep.

The processes of dissolution, where

surface rock that are soluble to weak acids, are dissolved, and suffosion, where cavities

form below the land surface, are responsible for many sinkholes. Human activity can also be responsible for sinkholes.

Find the Difference Nine things in the picture on the bottom are missing or different in the picture on the top.

Can you find them all?

22 Sunday Times Magazine

JANUARY 10, 2016

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Sunday Times Magazine 23

World Times

University releases annual list of banned words Words banished from the Queen's English for misuse, overuse and general uselessness

N

orthern Michigan's Lake Superior State University on Thursday last released its 41st annual list of words banished from the Queen's English for misuse, overuse and general uselessness.

The tongue-in-cheek wish-list of sorts includes starting an answer with the word "So," "presser" instead of press conference, "problematic," "walk it back" and "break the Internet."

Others are "stakeholder," "join the conversation," "physicality," "price point," "manspreading," "giving me life" and "vape," describing the act of "smoking" e-cigarettes.

There's no "secret sauce" — that rounds out this year's list — for inclusion: it's based on nominations submitted by stakeholders, er, members of the public, to the Sault Ste. Marie School. "(It's) usually used in a sentence explaining the ‘secret’ in excruciating public detail," John Beckett of Ann Arbor, Michigan, wrote in his nomination to ban "secret sauce." "Is this a metaphor for business based on the fast-food industry?"

As for "So," it has the distinction of getting the most nominations and making the Banished Words list twice — but for different reasons.

This year, people find starting a reply with it to be overused, meaningless

‘Manspreading’, or ‘man-sitting’, is the practice of sitting in public transport with legs wide apart, thereby covering more than one seat. Both this posture and usage of the term "manspreading" have caused some internet criticism, and debates in the USA, UK, Turkey, and Canada.(Wikipedia)

and affected. In 1999, those nominating it griped about its incessant use as a modifier, as in, "I am so down with this list."

Some linguists and word watchers say starting an answer with "So" flowered

Brain Teaser Answer The answer is (n). Add the numbers and take the first letter of the sum.

SUDOKU

KID SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

in academia, particularly among those in the fields of science, technology and engineering. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has used it, giving it pop culture currency.

"Currently, it is being overused as the first word in the answer to ANY question," wrote Bob Forrest of Tempe, Arizona. "For instance, 'How did you learn to play the piano?' Answer: 'So my dad was in a classical music club."'

University spokesman and list overseer Tom Pink said he and his colleagues were surprised by a lack of political terms, but they expect to see some in 2016, a presidential election year.

He noted that an increasing number of nominations come without explanations.

That, he said, could have something to do with the rapid-fire, abbreviated means by which we communicate in the digital age.

"Getting worse in recent years, probably bcuz people are typing from their phones!" Pink wrote in an email, which he sent from his phone.

Lest anybody get the wrong idea about Michigan schools only calling for word bans — even humorously — Detroit's Wayne State University offers an antidote: Its newer Word Warriors campaign boasts of "bringing back great words" that have fallen out of favour.

Past words the university wants people to use more include "caterwaul," "rapscallion" and "flapdoodle."

Vladimir Putin inspires new fragrance B

elarussian-born perfumer Vladislav Rekunov has come up with a cologne that he says bottles up Russian President Vladamir Putin’s personality. He called the cologne, Leaders Number One. The fragrance went on sale for about US$130 in a Moscow department store over Christmas and is said to contain hints of lemon, blackcurrant and fir cones.

"The composition that we created was made to be warm and well-rounded and I would call it uniting, not an aggressive scent, rather it's attractive, matter-of-fact and natural," Mr Rekunov said.

The perfumer said he was inspired by propaganda footage of the president and hoped a presidential endorsement would lead to the sweet smell of success for the Putin perfume.

But a test run of the co-

logne received mixed reviews on the streets of Moscow, with two men who took a sniff saying it smelled like cheap perfume.

Leaders Number One

is just the latest in an array of Putin merchandise pushing the leader's largerthan-life image, with Putinemblazoned t-shirts and calendars gaining popularity.

The 2016 superfood – according to UK nutritionists

A

Scottish breakfast staple has UK nutritionists extolling its iron and protein content reports Mirror.UK. Black pudding, the Scottish blood sausage –also familiar to Guyanese – is set to be the new superfood of 2016, with nutritionists praising its high iron content, ideal for beating the fatigue and poor concentration associated with anaemia.

The breakfast staple is also loaded with protein, potassium, calcium and magnesium, as well as being practically carbohydrate free, and is expected to fly off the shelves.

MuscleFood's Darren Beale said: "It will join the ranks of seaweed, black beans, avocado oil, teff grains and birch water as key superfoods for this year.

"It’s been interesting to note how our customers are changing their ordering habits depending on the new buzz words in clean eating.

People have previously been squeamish about eating the foodstuff which is made from pig's blood mixed with oatmeal.

But news that the bizarre food is actually good for you has led to a boom in orders for one butcher famed for producing some of the best blood sausages in the world.

Charles Macleod Butchers in Scotland's Western Isles has seen the demand for its iconic delicacy increase eight fold in the last few days with orders coming from as far away as London.

The Western Isles is famed for producing some of the world's best black pudding.

Black pudding has previously been associated with fried breakfasts in the UK

In 2013 Stornoway Black Pudding was given the same protected status in Europe as champagne.

Lorna MacLennan, a director at the butcher shop, told the MailOnline: "I think it is an interesting one because it is not always classed as a health food given the ingredients, but it is actually packed with iron and protein so it's quite nice to see it is being recognised for its benefits.

"Traditionally in the Hebrides it was a real staple on every kitchen table because they want to use every part of the animal traditionally and black pudding was a great way of using up some of your by-products.

"It is low carb, high protein, no sugar and you don't need to eat a lot, it's very filling, and you get your iron with just a small portion."

The National Geographic Photo Contest winners have been announced.

Every year photographers from around the globe share photographs that transport us to another place, connect with us emotionally, or stir us to action.

Grand prize winner: “Dirt”.

Photo and caption by James Smart. A rare and jaw-dropping anti-cyclonic tornado touches down in open farmland, narrowly missing a home near Simla, Colorado.

See http://photography. nationalgeographic.com/ contest-2015/gallery/ winners-all/1 for more 2015 prize winning photos

24

Sunday Times Magazine

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JANUARY 10, 2016

Fun Times

Archie

Don't try to improve or change someone else.

(March 21Recognize your flaws and do April 19) something to sharpen your appeal. Change can be good if you go about it the right way.

ARIES

You'll have good ideas, and TAURUS people will show interest and (April 20support your efforts. What May 20) you learn from those you encounter will make a difference to the way you move forward professionally.

GEMINI Learn from your mistakes.

(May 21- Don't let anyone limit your June 20) chance to advance or prevent you from following your lifelong dream. Stick to the people who encourage you.

Just because someone makes a suggestion doesn't (June 21mean you have to change your July 22) plans. Do what works best for you. A change to your residence will lead to financial freedom.

CANCER

Dilbert

LEO Protect against injury. If (July 23- something needs fixing that Aug. 22) is beyond your ability, call in an expert. Make plans to do something entertaining with someone you love.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Your energetic attitude will help you get things done and lead to some fun at the same time. Don't let a negative or demanding relationship stand between you and a good time.

Stick to the people and LIBRA things you enjoy most. Do (Sept. 23something with the youngOct. 23) sters in your life, or book a relaxing day at a club or spa with someone special.

Peanuts

Join a group that shares SCORPIO your concerns. You can make (Oct. 24Nov. 22) a difference if you offer your insight and solutions. The conversations you have will open up a door to a new opportunity.

Stick close to your house SAGITTARIUS and make some upgrades to (Nov. 23your entertainment center or Dec. 21) home office. Taking time to get things in order will help you avoid a complaint or setback.

Calvin and Hobbes

Trust your instincts, and CAPRICORN (Dec. 22- invest in something you can Jan. 19) do independently. Put any legal, financial or contractual concerns to rest. Money or a gift is heading your way.

Keep your financial conAQUARIUS (Jan. 20- cerns a secret. If you explore Feb. 19) ways to utilize your skills and talents uniquely, you will discover a way to bring in more cash. Romance is highlighted.

Take a break and do somePISCES (Feb. 20- thing that is relaxing, enterMarch 20) taining or meaningful. An idea you have will interest someone with excellent connections. Protect your health and well-being.