Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

It is once again that time of the year to spread Christmas joy, which is sometimes a personal mission to some who go above and beyond to accomplish this. This is true of Goldie Scott, the chief executive officer of the Volunteer Youth Corps (VYC), who executed

the Lodge area receive a gift for the holidays. Any excess toys are then distributed throughout Guyana to other vulnerable and less fortunate children.

“We generally target vulnerable children particularly those from large families…we would visit areas

give them a toy…it will make a happier end of year and by extent a happier Christmas.”

The Christmas Party and Concert provides an opportunity for the staff and volunteers of VYC to celebrate yet another milestone - their 18th anniversary.

Some of the toys distributed at the toy drive

her fourth annual Toy Drive - an initiative that presents the less fortunate and vulnerable children with toys each year.

According to Scott, the Toy Drive is immediately followed by a Christmas Party and Concert, where children ages 1 to 16 from

such as Tucville, Sophia, Lodge and other surrounding areas in south east Georgetown,” Scott told the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

She continued, “We feel if we can put a smile on a child’s face during the Christmas season and

VYC was established on 14 December 1996.

Ending the year by doing something in recognition of the work done with children, the Toy Drive and Christmas party was held on 19 December at VYC.

With previous targets at 300 toys, this year the or-

ganisation sought to raise

400 with the hope of exceeding the 500-plus toys accumulated last year.

“Last year we raised 260 extra toys, which were distributed after the Christmas Party and Concert to the Paediatric Ward, the Drop in Centre/Convalescent Home, Churches in vulnerable areas and so forth,” Scott outlined.

Scott expressed faith that this year’s Toy Drive would far outweigh the last, allowing for gift distribution well into January and around Guyana.

“We were able to mobi-

lize a number of partners, members of the diaspora and much more. Some of the items will arrive after 19 December, but nevertheless we will have the party and spread out the gift distribution well into January. Friends of the organisation would also spread the word which greatly contributes to the Toy Drive,” Scott mentioned.

The youth-friendly organisation has also been known to tap into the business community to assist, however, according to Scott, this year corporate Guyana has not been as supportive

as the last. Nevertheless, Scott is grateful to all those who did help.

“Our volunteers and the youths who attend VYC programmes would partake in the concert, with Santa Claus and Angels. This year we are targeting age 12 and under, so the older kids are performing and will be helping with the gift distribution,” Scott pointed out. For more information on the Volunteer Youth Corps, Volunteer YouthsCorps on Facebook or email goldiescottvyc@gmail.com. Interested persons can also call 227-1011 or 611-5544.

ExxonMobil, VYC collaborate to provide career guidance for Guyanese youths

Encouraging wider thinking and providing hands-on career guidance was the idea behind the collaborative workshop hosted by ExxonMobil and Volunteer Youth Corps (VYC). Over 100 secondary school students participated in the workshop held earlier this month.

Conducted under the topic, “Interactive Mathematics and Science”, the workshop was planned from a desire to bring the children of VYC two career guidance programmes together: to learn about future careers in the fields of math and science.

VYC has been providing Interactive Mathematics and Science programme to high school students in Forms Three and Four for several years with the support of ExxonMobil. Additionally, VYC has recently added a career guidance programme under the patronage of CUSO International for fourth formers.

“We wanted to bring the two groups together… [help them] to understand the field and possibly start thinking about future careers in the area

by exposing them to these (ExxonMobil) professionals,” explained Goldie Scott, the chief executive officer of VYC, in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

A short workshop (to accommodate the students), began with opening remarks from Scott before an introductory presentation from Walter Fritz Merz, the operations manager of ExxonMobil and finally concluded with two presentations.

The students were split into two large groups where

they were able to engage ExxonMobil staff, during a question and answer segment. They were also treated to two presentations (one on engineering and the other on geology); discussions exploring careers in oil and gas; personal experiences from a few professionals; and the future prospects of the company in Guyana.

According to Scott, it was impossible to accommodate all the students of the two programmes, so a selected few from each programme were taken, allowing for 145 participants of

the 150 students targeted. The workshop was held

to accommodate students from over 10 schools. “We directly catered for Richard Ishmael Secondary, North Ruimveldt Multilateral, St Joseph High, Tutorial High, and of course VYC students, who attend a variety of schools,” noted Scott.

Teachers from the participating schools were present, as well as VYC facilitators and volunteers who were “involved in the preparation and execution of the workshop”.

The career guidance programme was meant to help students think strategically about their future; about opportunities available to them; planning to achieve their goals; and getting the

exposure they would not receive in the classroom.

“You don’t have to focus on mainstream jobs, but think outside the box and prepare for the future,” Scott declared.

With origins as far back as the 1850s, ExxonMobil has been in existence for over 125 years. As the world’s largest refiner and marketer of petroleum products, ExxonMobil strives to continuously achieve superior financial and operating results while adhering to high ethical standards. This is achieved by “applying science and innovation to find better, safer and cleaner ways to deliver the energy the world needs”.

Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?

Kissing under sprigs of mistletoe is a well-known holiday tradition, but this little plant’s history as a symbolic herb dates back thousands of years. Many ancient cultures prized mistletoe for its healing properties. The Greeks were known to use it as a cure for everything from menstrual cramps to spleen disorders, and the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder noted it could be used as a balm against epilepsy, ulcers and poisons. The plant’s romantic overtones most likely started with the Celtic Druids of the 1st century A.D. Because mistletoe could blossom even during the frozen winter, the Druids came to view it as a sacred symbol of vivacity, and they administered it to humans and animals alike in the hope of restoring fertility.

Another famous chapter in mistletoe folklore comes from Norse mythology. As the story goes, when the god Odin’s son Baldur was prophesied to die, his mother Frigg, the goddess of love, went to all the animals and plants of the natural world to secure an oath that they would not harm him. But Frigg neglected to consult with the unassuming mistletoe, so the scheming god Loki made an arrow from the plant and saw that it was used to kill the otherwise invincible Baldur. According to one sunnier version of the myth, the gods were able to resurrect Baldur from the dead. Delighted, Frigg then declared mistletoe a symbol of love and vowed to plant a kiss on all those who passed beneath it.

Mistletoe’s associations with fertility and vitality continued through the Middle Ages, and by the 18th century it had become widely incorporated into Christmas celebrations. Just how it made the jump from sacred herb to holiday decoration remains up for debate, but the kissing tradition appears to have first caught on among servants in England before spreading to the middle classes. As part of the early custom, men were allowed to steal a kiss from any woman caught standing under the mistletoe, and refusing was viewed as bad luck. Yet another tradition instructed the merrymakers to pluck a single berry from the mistletoe with each kiss, and to stop smooching once they were all gone.

In the Northern hemisphere, the shortest day and longest night of the year falls on December 21 or December 22 and is called the winter sol stice. Many ancient people believed that the sun was a god and that winter came every year be cause the sun god had become sick and weak. They celebrated the solstice because it meant that at last the sun god would begin to get well. Evergreen boughs, the greenery on a Christmas tree, reminded them of all the green plants that would grow again when the sun god was strong and summer would return.

In many countries it was believed that evergreens would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness.

The ancient Egyptians worshipped a god called Ra, who had the head of a hawk and wore the sun as a blaz ing disk in his crown. At the solstice, when Ra began to recover from the ill ness, the Egyptians filled their homes with green palm rushes which sym bolized for them the triumph of life over death.

Early Romans marked the sol stice with a feast called the Saturnalia in honour of Saturn, the god of agriculture. The Romans knew that the solstice meant that soon farms and orchards would be green and fruitful. To mark the occasion, they decorated their homes and temples with ever green boughs. In Northern Europe the mysterious Druids, the priests of the ancient Celts, also deco rated their temples with evergreen boughs as a symbol of everlasting life. The fierce Vikings in Scandinavia thought that evergreens were the special plant of the sun god, Balder.

Germany is credited with start ing the Christmas tree tradition as we now know it in the 16th cen tury when de vout Christians brought decorat ed trees into their homes. Some built Christmas pyramids of wood and decorat ed them with evergreens and candles if wood was scarce. It is a widely held belief that Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, first added lighted candles to a tree. Walking toward his home one winter evening, composing a sermon, he was awed by the brilliance of stars twinkling amidst evergreens. To recapture the scene for his family, he erected a tree in the main room and wired its branches with lighted candles.

Most 19th-century Americans found Christmas trees an

oddity. The first record of one being on display was in the 1830s by the German settlers of Pennsylvania, although trees had been a tradition in many German homes much earlier. The Pennsylvania German settlements had community trees as early as 1747. But, as late as the 1840s Christmas trees were seen as pagan symbols and not ac-

To the New England Puritans, Christmas was sacred. The pilgrims’s second governor, William Bradford, wrote that he tried hard to stamp out “pagan mockery” of the observance, penalizing any frivolity. The influential Oliver Cromwell preached against “the heathen traditions” of Christmas carols, decorated trees, and any joyful expression that desecrated “that sacred event.” In 1659, the General Court of Massachusetts enacted a law making any observance of December 25 (other than a church service) a penal offense; people were fined for hanging decorations. That stern solemnity continued until the 19th century, when the influx of German and Irish immigrants undermined

In 1846, the popular royals, Queen Victoria and her German Prince, Albert, were sketched in the Illustrated London News standing with their children around a Christmas tree. Unlike the previous royal family, Victoria was very popular with her subjects, and what was done at court immediately became fashionable - not only in Britain, but with fashion-conscious East Coast American Society. The Christmas tree had arrived. By the 1890s Christmas ornaments were arriving from Germany and Christmas tree popularity was on the rise around the US. It was noted that Europeans used small trees about four feet in height, while Americans liked their Christmas trees to reach from floor to ceiling.

The early 20th century saw Americans decorating their trees mainly with homemade ornaments, while the German-American sect continued to use apples, nuts, and marzipan cookies. Popcorn joined in after being dyed bright colours and interlaced with berries and nuts. Electricity brought about Christmas lights, making it possible for Christmas trees to glow for days on end. With this, Christmas trees began to appear in town squares across the country and having a Christmas tree in the home became an American tradition.

In Guyana, the Christmas tree is a widely anticipated feature in the home, where families get together to decorate. Even companies have incorporated the Christmas tree in their offices in order to create an ambience of joy and festivities.

Dunamis BanD

Sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ through their musical talents, while spreading his message around the world is the sole purpose of the Dunamis Band - a gospel band composed of young Christians with immense talent.

Incredibly creative, the band has been producing original gospel songs, both lyrics and instrumental, for over eight years.

“We have many original songs that we have performed and recorded,” Denise Harris, the band’s manager told the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

These songs, both writ-

ten and produced by members of the band, are “unrestricted in its musical diversity” as Dunamis “draws influence and inspiration from all genres of music”, which creates the band distinct “sound”.

“We approve and promote locally-produced music,” said Harris. However, the band does play pre-recorded music on occasion.

The Dunamis members are partial to genres such as Soca, Reggae, Dance Hall, R&B, Soul, Alternative/ Contemporary and Hip Hop.

“Dunamis Band is committed to spreading the gospel through music in the unique

way God has equipped us to. We totally enjoy doing music [and] we were created to worship...Since then [the band’s creation] it's been an interesting and exciting journey to present,” Harris disclosed.

With the production of four albums, the first being Anointed Excellence, and collaborations with CLS (Christ Like Soldiers) and Tiffany Vasquez, the gospel band is well on its way to a long and prosperous career.

Completely composed of local talent, the band members count themselves as “blessed to have shared appearances on the interna-

tional stage and local ones with several international artists.

“Dunamis has played in Suriname, Trinidad, and Barbados, backing Trenacia Esseboom at a Barbados Music Awards ceremony,” Harris mentioned.

Dunamis was formed in 2006 at the Ruimveldt Life Improvement Centre (Assembly of God) Church.

The Dunamis Band was originally “just the musicians of the church”; however, under the encouragement of the senior pastor, Reverend Simon Harris, it later became a formal band.

“He gave us the name ‘Dunamis’ to remind us that

whatever we do, must be done by and in the strength of God’s power (the enablement of the holy spirit), otherwise it would just be entertainment and not ministry,” explained one of the members.

Hence, the band was formed: at first with members who were either schoolmates or attended the same church, with the exception of a selected few, and later as time passed the membership grew to include others resulting in the nine members it has presently.

The band is headed by Jeduthun Harris (who plays all instruments but is a keyboard specialist), John-Mark

Hannibal on the drums, Jason Lawrence on

and Keoma Griffith on the keyboard. There are five vocalists: Jermaine Dewsbury, Rashlie Joseph, Trevor Smith, Jasmin Harris and Tiffany Vasquez.

During the Christmas season, the band members plan to “reflect and plan ahead, but more importantly take time just to hang out together as a group and have some fun”.

For more information on Dunamis, contact the band manager Denise Harris on (592) 603-4848 or visit their website at www.reverbnation.com/dunamisgospelband.

The Shaping of guyaneSe LiTeraTure

Christmas of yesteryears

By PetamBer Persaud

The book Nostalgias: Golden Memories of Guyana 1940 – 1980 by Godfrey Chin opens with a reflective feature on Christmas via ‘Christmas 1944: In memory of my father’ and ends with an entertaining feature on Christmas via ‘The true Guyanese Christmas spirit’. In between those two pieces are numerous references to Christmas, both major and minor.

In ‘Christmas 1944’, you could find every and anything on the season at that time like Christmas Raffle, Christmas Box Hand, Puzzlin Box, with which to make your Christmas shopping a pleasure or pain. Depending on how you prioritise, you may be able to enjoy “Swift ham in tar paper, a five-pound tin of Macintosh Quality Street chocolates, Marie cus -

tard cream biscuits and an Edam Dutchman head cheese”. For breakfast, you may be able to get “slices of ham, pickled onions, ketchup and bread plus Red Rose

tea, cocoa, or bush tea… boiled duck, funsee soup with foo-chuck, ice cream with KOO canned grapes, imported from South Africa but later banned after

apartheid”.

During this season, no one is left out. There are chores for mothers like “sewing curtains; boiling, honey-baking and cloving the ham; churning salt butter to bake sponge cake; setting sorrel, ginger beer, jamoon or rice wine”, preparing garlic pork and pepperpot. Also making artificial flowers from crepe paper. Everyone is involved in Christmas cleaning which included re-polishing furniture with a “magical concoction of mentholated spirit and French wood polish” and polishing floor or covering it with linoleum.

Decorating the Christmas tree was the big event of the season. Chin wrote, “[o]n the fourth Sunday before Christmas, the annual ritual …would begin.” And for many decades, everything concerning the Christmas was homemade.

The other big event of the season was Christmas Eve Day and Christmas Eve Night – last minute shopping, window shopping after stores were closed cracking peanuts and licking ice cream cones, and midnight mass.

In this feature, ‘Christmas 1944’, you would find toys for tots and the game children played. The toys were “inexpensive”

like “jig saw puzzles, colouring books, and springwound toy train made of tin, Sherman and Panzer tanks”, wood guns, slingshots, boats, submarines, all accompanied by “flutes from papaw stems; comb and silver paper; empty bottle and spoon; calabash shac-shac; and biscuits cans for bass drums”.

Adding more activities to the season were the preparation of Christmas Cards, gift envelops for the postman and garbage collector, Christmas Carols and Songs and Holiday serials at the movie houses. Top songs were ‘White Christmas’ by Bing Crosby and ‘Happy Holidays’ by Guyanese, Billy Moore.

The book Nostalgias: Golden Memories of Guyana 1940 – 1980 by Godfrey Chin was published in 2007 and it was a compilation of Chin’s ever popular recording of Guyana’s social history.

Godfrey Chin was born in Georgetown, Guyana, during the late 1930s, becoming involved in everything of interest as “a regular cook shop fly”. He was a multitalented sportsman, graphic designer, and social commentator. He died in Guyana in January 2012.

The above snippets are from an amplified version of Christmas. Let us close

with a condensed version of Christmas. It is a poem that captures the real reason for Christmas, investing heavily on social and moral issues. ‘Christmas in the Tropics’ by S. E. Wills was written in 1907. Wills was among our first notable versifiers and was among the first “to specialise in depicting local life” (Cameron). What jostling hosts of memories the name of Christmas starts, Remembrances that rush from out our minds right to our hearts, With sweet anticipations of the cheer the season brings, O, Queen of the Seasons, happy childhood is thy other name; Thy spirit dwells, in the sunny lands and milder climes the same, Within heart of youth; also in those advanced in years…

In these realms within the bounds of Cancer and of Capricorn,

We have caught the ruling spirit of the day the Christ was born...

We may not have Yule log or the hanging mistletoe,

But then we have the sunshine and the hearts that with it go… And in these warmer regions of this fair old world of ours

We can brave the thorns at Christmas times and boldly pluck the flowers, We can smooth down petty diff’rences and give the rein to peace, We can but bid our wrongs be silent and our jealousies to cease, Thank God for all the Christmases within reach of time.

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

What’s Happening: • ‘An Introduction to Guyanese Literature’ by Petamber Persaud is available at the National Library, Austin Book Service, and the author.

How the season became a victim of its own success

As happens every year, the debate about celebrating Christmas from religious and secular stances can get quite intense and confrontational. The debate seems neverending.

Christmas became a victim of its own success when the problem for some became the extent of non-religious involvement. The

calendar year. Christmas Day lies just about one week away from the New Year, where celebrations for the ending of the year and beginning of a new one are as ancient as they are festive. These fetes first stemmed from certain western Old World cosmic, cultural and nature events such as winter solstice, sowing crops–and the last occasion to par ty before the “famine period” of deep winter

For many slaves in the New World,

laxed rules, more ing, new clothes and more food and drink. Some slaves could go to other

to remain a purely sacred event.

While there is yet no agreement, one thing is clear: Christmas is deeply rooted in many of us.

Most of us are aware of the pre-Christian traditions in the early Christmas, as well as the church’s later stress on more Christianlike attitudes. Nevertheless, these non-Christian beginnings remain hard to shake off. The church in the beginning was trying to increase its membership by introducing Christmas observations. It seems to have succeeded beyond its imagination –and then some.

Christmas was at first for the faithful; then later included the non-Christian and non-religious. There was a vast potential for making money from these large groups. People buy more food and drink and generally overspend on other things the most at Christmas. Many companies make record profits at this time of the year, which, from a commercial point of view, encourages the need for the season.

One of the reasons for the event’s widespread acceptance is perhaps too its placement at the end of the

plantations to reunite with family and friends. Others would get married during this “abundant” period. All this encouraged merriment during the Christmas season that would soon become tradition. (Christmas was also a time when many more slaves would attempt to escape.)

Eventually, invented Christmas traditions such as decorating trees, homes and businesses; card and gift giving, would further boost non-religious involvement. Through cultural contact, certain meals and drinks soon became worldwide Christmas traditions.

Then there are those who find the message of hope and peace, found in the Christmas Story, a universal one that speaks not just to the Christian religious. They can appreciate and celebrate the secular and/or spiritual aspects of the season.

Today both religious and secular traditions define the season. Of the almost 200 countries in the world, more than 160 observe Christmas in some way or the other. The church of old could never have had a clue how much the Story of Christmas would engulf the world.

Indomitable

badminton champion Priyanna Ramdhani was born on 2 January 2002. She is currently a student at the Marian Academy in Grade 8 (Form 2). At the age of 12, Priyanna gained the highest awards in the sport of badminton, which she started playing at the tender age of four. To date, she has held all of her age group championships locally without losing a match. Notably, the badminton pro was also, on numerous occasions, triple champion. At her debut international tournament, held in Suriname in 2008, Priyanna won three gold medals in the Under-11 events at the age of six. She then went on to win many international tournaments throughout the years, including the Pan American and Caribbean Championships held in Dominican Republic, Canada, Barbados, Trinidad, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica (these also include Singles, Girls Doubles and Mix Doubles). At age10, Priyanna won the National Junior Sportswoman of the Year award, breaking the record for being the youngest since the awards started in the 1950s. The following year, she was awarded the runner-up Junior Sportswoman of the Year award. Priyanna continues to train three times a week with the Yonex Badminton Club all year round and is already gearing up for the Pan American and Caribbean Championships 2015. Currently, she holds the National Junior Champion of Guyana title. When Priyanna is off the badminton court, she enjoys being with her friends and family and playing other sports with her brother. For more information on Priyanna and badminton, visit www.guyanabadminton.com

Creature Corner

Even though no one has actually seen a reindeer fly, this special member of the deer family has a lot to live up to! Reindeer and caribou are classified as the same genus and species, Rangifer tarandus. In Europe, they are called reindeer. In North America, the name reindeer is used when referring to Eurasian (combined continental landmass of Europe and Asia) populations and the name caribou to refer to wild populations in North America.

Antlers are the reindeer’s most memorable characteristic. A male’s antlers can measure up to 51 inches (130 centimeters) long, and a female’s antlers can reach 20 inches (50 centimeters). Just as a tree has a trunk, so all antlers have a main beam and several branches or tines that grow from the frontal bones of the skull. Sometimes little branchlets or snags are also present. The tip of each antler is called a point. Unlike horns, antlers fall off and grow back larger every year. As new antlers grow, the reindeer is said to be in velvet, because skin, blood vessels, and soft fur cover the developing antlers. When the velvet dries up, the reindeer rubs it off against rocks or trees, revealing the hardened, bony core.

Males begin to grow antlers in February and females in May. They both finish growing their antlers at the same time but shed their antlers at different times of the year. A male drops his in November, leaving him without antlers until the following spring, while female reindeer keep their antlers through the winter until their calves are born in May. This fact has led many to believe that, based on the presence of antlers, Rudolph the rednosed reindeer must have been a female to have those antlers on Christmas Eve!

But what are the antlers for? They are handy weapons against predators, males use their impressive antlers (which can weigh up to 33 pounds or 15 kilograms!) to woo the females, and females use theirs to clear away the snow to find food.

Reindeer

Christmas Fun Facts

1. Christmas is celebrated on January 7 in some Eastern Orthodox countries, such as Russia.

2. The word Christmas is derived from the Old English phrase Cristes maesse (Christ's mass).

3. The real date of Jesus' birth is not known.

4. The modern Christmas tree originated in Germany in the 16th century and became popular in England by the mid-19th century thanks to Queen Victoria's German husband, Prince Albert.

5. Cartoonist Thomas Nast is credited with creating the current image of Santa Claus based on his illustrations that began appearing in Harpers Weekly in 1863.

6. St. Nicholas, the real person on whom Santa Claus is based, lived in the 4th century AD in the province of Lycia on the southwest coast of Asia Minor.

7. The tradition of substituting X-mas for Christmas has its origins in the early Christian

8.

Did you know?

Both male and female reindeer grow long antlers, the only deer species to do so.

Some reindeer travel 9 to 40 miles (15 to 65 kilometers) daily in the same area; others migrate 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) twice a year in large herds. In comparison to body size, reindeer have the largest and heaviest antlers of all living deer species.

Adult reindeer can swim 4 to 6 miles per hour (6 to 10 kilometers per hour) and can run up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour).

When reindeer walk, their hooves make a loud clicking noise due to a tendon slipping over the foot bone.

Reindeer are the only deer species to have hair completely covering their nose.

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

Christmas Maze

The Liberty Bell

The famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia has long been a symbol of freedom for the United States. It was commissioned in 1751 and cracked on its first test ring. The bell was melted down and recast twice in 1743. The bell rang for nearly 90 years in the tower of the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall). It called lawmakers to legislative sessions and was rung to announce public meetings and important proclamations.

In 1846, the city of Philadelphia decided to repair some small cracks on the bell, but a larger crack formed, and the bell was never rung again.

The World Peace Bell

This bell (one of many Peace Bells around the world) can be found in Newport, Kentucky. One of the largest swinging bells in the world, it weighs 66,000 pounds (30,000 kg) and is 12 feet (3.7 m) in diameter. The World Peace Bell was cast in France in 1998 by the Verdin Company. It is engraved with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and historic events from the past 1,000 years. The striker is designed to hit the bell on the outside rim, so that the bell does not have to swing in order to ring.

By Laurie Triefeldt

BELLS

The world’s first bells were made about 4,000 years ago in China. Early bells were used as musical percussion instruments. The powerful and pleasant sound of bells was often associated with spiritual and religious rituals and events. Bells were also used to communicate over long distances. To that end, large bells were hung in high towers.

The Tsar Bell

Tsar Kolokol III, also known as the Tsar Bell, can be found in Moscow. Considered one of the world’s largest bells, it weighs 441,000 pounds (200 metric tons). The bell was cast in 1733 to 1735, but was never rung due to a fire in 1737 that damaged the bell beyond repair.

The Kyoto Bell

One of the largest bells in Japan, the Great Bell of Kyoto can be found inside the Chion-In Temple Cast in 1633, this bell weighs more than 70 tons and is 10.8 feet (3.3 m) high, with a diameter of 8.8 feet (2.7 m).

Bells are one of the oldest percussion instruments.

The classic mechanical butler’s bell was often used in large, old manor houses to ring the staff.

Did you know?

Bells were hung on war horses to accustom them to loud noises.

Cow Bells

Cow bells are placed on many kinds of free-roaming livestock (not just cows) to make it easier to find the animals when they wander about. 5,000-year-old pottery cow bells from Neolithic China have been discovered. The Iron Age ushered in the use of metal bells for animal shepherding.

Ankle bells play an important role in classical and folk dances of India. They are also seen in Native American, African and Taiwanese dance.

The Glasgow Deid bell, dated 1641, is 4.5" tall. It is a kind of hand bell used in Scotland and northern England. These bells were rung before and during funerals to keep evil spirits away from the corpse.

Maritime law dictates that all ships have a working bell. Ships have used bells to keep time, as a signal and to sound alarms or warnings.

In times of war, bells were melted down to make cannons. In times of peace, cannons were melted down to make bells.

Opening day ceremonies at the Olympic Games in London in 2012 included three minutes of ringing a huge variety of bells.

The bell is rung only during special memorial services and on New Year’s Eve, when it is rung 108 times. A team of 17 people take part in the ringing of the bell, the sound of which is said to be quite magical.

Hand Bells

Hand bells are sometimes used just to get a person’s attention, but they are more often heard in tuned sets played by hand bell choirs or ensembles. American hand bells have rubber or plastic clappers and handles. English hand bells have a leather clapper on a hinge that moves back and forth in a single direction. It does not matter where the hand bell is made to be called American or English. It is more about the bell’s design.

Fashion

The most recent collection, ‘Journey’, by Guyanese designer Andy Cummings is creating quite a stir.

“My collection was aptly named ‘Journey’ because I believe that life is a journey, not a destination. I get my inspiration from my African culture in the Caribbean, but mostly from Guyana. The detail is from the old traditional basket weave that was used many years ago. The colour palette used was mint green, brown, white, cream - these colours speak about growth in the African culture,” the designer

said in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine

Cummings graduated from the Burrowes School of Art in 2012 with a major in Ceramics and minor in Textiles. He was awarded best graduating student and best ceramic student for his year.

In that same year, he won the Guyana Model Search/Designers Portfolio, which gave him the opportunity to be fashion partner with veteran Guyanese designer Sonia Noel.

In 2013, Cummings was voted most promising young designer.

The designer’s dreams, which he is working feverishly to make a reality, are to pursue a fashion degree from an accredited university and to work for an international fashion company with the aim of one day operating his own establishment.

Recently, Cummings aptly represented Guyana on the regional runway at the prestigious fashion event Mission Catwalk in Jamaica where he received accolades for his trendy designs.

To contact the designer, call 615-5673 or 672-2243 or email a.acummings68@yahoo.com

Nicola Peltz is an American actress. Her breakthrough came when she played Katara in the 2010 film The Last Airbender. Since then, she has played Bradley Martin in the A&E series Bates Motel and starred as Tessa Yeager in the fourth Transformers film, Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014). Peltz made her film debut in the 2006 film Deck the Halls, playing Mackenzie. She later appeared in the film Harold in 2008, where she was cast as Becki.

Peltz played Katara in the 2010 film The Last Airbender, a role in which she was nominated for the "Worst Supporting Actress" award at the 31st Golden Raspberries Awards.

Times Hollywood

Ansel Elgort slams gay rumours

Ansel Elgort took to Twitter on December 17 to address persistent rumours that he's a gay. He made his sexual preference quite clear when tweeting, "Just in case it isn't clear... I like girls. A lot."

The star of "The Fault in Our Stars" followed it up, "Also let me say if I was gay I wouldn't hide it. Being gay or straight isn't bad or good it just IS. U are who you are. Be true to yourself."

Ansel sparked gay rumours after he and Nat Wolff recreated "The Fault in Our Stars" poster for their gay fans back in May. "The fault in our stars. W @natandale," the "Men, Women & Children" actor captioned the photo on Instagram.

Ansel has been single since his split from his longtime girlfriend Violetta Komyshan back in August. At that time, a source told Us Weekly that the break-up was due to their hectic schedule. "[Ansel and Violetta] tried to navigate his commitments, but between filming and press for the movies [it got difficult]," the source said.

Ansel will reprise his role as Caleb Prior

in upcoming movie "The Divergent Series: Insurgent". Other original cast members like Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Ray Stevenson and Kate Winslet will also back in their respective roles. The fantasy adventure flick is set to hit theatres in the U.S. on March 20, 2015. (AceShowbiz)

Rihanna Films new music video in Paris

Rihanna has started shooting a new music video for a new song from her highly-anticipated new album. The Bajan singer was spotted on Thursday evening, December 18 filming something that's reportedly related to "R8" near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.

During the shoot, RiRi wore a long black wig and a white jumpsuit. In several pictures and videos taken on the set, she's seen being filmed running toward a huge mob of screaming fans. She waved her hands as she got carried on her bodyguard's shoulders.

The "Diamonds" singer also Instagrammed a picture from the set and hinted that the filming was indeed for her new album. "Ran off set of an editorial shoot, straight into the arms of my fans... thank you french navy #r8," she wrote alongside an image of her being surrounded by numerous fans.

"R8", a reference to Rihanna's eighth studio album, is currently still in the works. The follow-up to 2012's chart-topper "Unapologetic" still has no official title or re-

lease date, but it's expected to arrive sometime next year. (AceShowbiz)

Brad Pitt dismissed from jury duty for being too ‘distracting’

If only that excuse worked for everyone! Brad Pitt was ready and willing to do his civic duty as a juror in L.A., but his dream of a reallife 12 Angry Men was shortlived. According to the Daily Mail, it was decided that the A-list actor would be "too much of a distraction" in court, so he was dismissed from the selection pool.

"You just can't stick Brad Pitt in a jury box and expect 11 jurors to ignore him," L.A. attorney William Lively told MailOnline. "It's only natural that those jurors would be watching to see how Brad reacts to what's being said and that they could be influenced by his opinions once the jury goes behind closed doors to render a verdict."

Lively adds to Us Weekly that "too much attention" on one juror could "interfere with the objective examination of the allegations" in the case. "It's one of those things where [it's like], 'We're not going to use you because it's going to end up being about you,'" he says.

Pitt, for his part, was re-

portedly looking forward to the experience. "Brad was hoping he might get picked to serve on a short case," a source told the Daily Mail. "But the problem was, he would actually be required to serve for as long as it took for the case to be decided."

Trial or no trial, the Fury actor has a packed schedule. With wife Angelina

15; he also stepped in at a promotional event on Dec. 14. (US Magazine)

Mariah Carey's former assistant sues for hours of overtime pay

It has not been a good year for Mariah Carey. There was the long-awaited album which became the lowest selling release of her career. Then there was the separation. And the much publicized on-stage snafus. And now, another lawsuit. This time, it's Carey's former assistant claiming she is owed seven years' worth of back wages.

In a suit filed Thursday in Manhattan federal court, Carey's former assistant, Ylser Oliver, claims she was forced to work 16-hour days for six or seven days a week and never received any overtime pay. In the suit, which Oliver's lawyer Matthew Blit provided to The Insider With Yahoo, Oliver requests Carey pay her back wages as well as her attorney's fees. According to the suit, Oliver's responsibilites as Mariah Carey's assistant included cleaning and organizing Carey's apartment in Manhattan, packing her suitcases, and traveling with her during tours and vacations.

So just how much is Oliver claiming she's owed? The suit does not name a specific number, nor does it state what Oliver was paid while in Carey's employ. But Oliver worked for Carey from March 2007 to June 2014. It claims her average workday was between 10 and 16 hours long and that she frequently worked up to seven days a week. So a conservative estimate concludes that Oliver is seeking at least 4,224 hours of overtime pay. Now that's a serious Christmas bonus.

"My client put her family's life on hold

while tending to Mariah Carey's family, and Mariah repaid her by underpaying her," Bilt told Page Six of the suit.

It's not the only lawsuit pop music's number one diva has been involved in this year. A photographer who claims he was commissioned to shoot Carey's album cover is suing her record label, saying the shoot was abruptly canceled for no reason. According to a report by TMZ, the suit alleges it takes $85,000 just to get Mariah Carey cameraready.

Carey has not responded to either suit and Yahoo's request for comment went unanswered.

But, hey, at least "All I Want For Christmas Is You" is charting on both the Holiday 100 and the Hot 100 again. (Yahoo)

Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan has met with the students of Stanford University. The students came to Mumbai to interact with public figures who have excelled in their chosen professions and are role models to many.

Addressing the students, the actor said: "I don't have a speech prepared and I won't be able to tell you about business. But yes I can share with you the frailties that I have as a person. Because no matter how successful you are and no matter how much money you have, you frailties always remain with you.

"Frailties or failures need to be celebrated. One should never fear them, but should learn from them. And you will only learn from them

and not fear them when you have the feeling that you have nothing to lose. I always like to go back to that feeling," explained the 49-year-old.

The actor answered questions posed by the students about the different aspects of his life, from achieving such unprecedented success in his career, his Kolkata Knight Riders cricket team and films.

"I am passionate about film, kids and cricket and hence I make cinema, I have KidZania and I have KKR," he said.

The session ended with the students posing for group photos with the actor.

Khan recently commented that it is hard to hold on to stardom as an outsider in the industry. (Digital Spy)

Priyanka Chopra has signed a one-year TV development deal with ABC Television Studios.

The Bollywood star will either top the bill of an ABC series developed for her or star in an existing project, Variety reports.

Commenting on the lucrative deal, the Mary Kom star said in a statement: "I've been a long-time fan of ABC shows, and an admirer of how the network has changed the landscape of TV through the diversity of their lead characters.

"I am honoured by the opportunity to share my talent with a game-changing network."

It was reported that ABC casting executive Keli Lee travelled to Mumbai to personally sign Chopra, who has starred in 45 hit films.

The 32-year-old made her debut as an actress after winning the Miss World beauty pageant in 2000.

She has also won global attention after launching a singing career and is signed with Interscope Records/ Desi Hits.

'In My City' featuring will.i.am and the Pitbull collaboration 'Exotic' have both previously hit number one on iTunes India.

She also voiced the character of Ishaani in Disney's Planes. (Digital Spy)

Freida Pinto has said she will not take on roles that portray a stereotypical image of an Indian woman.

The actress first made her mark in the Oscarwinning film Slumdog Millionaire (2008) and went on to win roles in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger and Trishna.

In an interview with the Hindustan Times, she said: "I don't present myself as an Indian girl who wears a sari and a bindi and is waiting to get married in America.

"I present myself as a strong global woman. Someone who grew up among all cultures and is willing to embrace all cultures, which, I feel, are good for my character.

"I've never given out a message that suggests I am

looking for a stereotypical Indian role," she added.

The 30-year-old went on to say that she has to contend with stereotypes in Hollywood as an Indian woman.

"There are preconceived notions like, 'If she is a beautiful, brown-skinned exotic girl, she will play only those kinds of roles'. This is something that I have to fight every day," explained the actress.

"I've been fortunate that people have accepted me for the way I am. But it is tough... those who think I lead a very glam life don't know my struggle behind trying to make it easier for Indians to be accepted in Hollywood."

The Mumbai-born actor has previously said that she wants to work in Bollywood. (Digital Spy)

Benefits of Exercise

By Zenica DaBichan

Although there are no guarantees for good health, a mixture of regular exercise and healthy eating comes very close. The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore. The benefits of exercise are yours for the taking, regardless of your age, sex or physical ability.

Exercise controls weight

Exercise helps to prevent weight gain or maintains weight loss. Exercise burns calories and when coupled with a healthy diet it makes weight loss easier. The more intense the activity, the more calories you burn. You don't need to set aside large chunks of time for exercise to reap weight loss ben fits. If you can't do an actual workout, get more active throughout the day in simple ways like increasing house chores.

Exercise combats health con ditions and diseases

Exercise decreases the risk of Type 2 diabetes, lowers blood pressure, decreases the lev els of bad cholesterol, and in creases the level of good cholesterol. These beneficial effects in turn decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke and heart disease. Weight-bearing exercise, such as brisk walking and weight training, strengthens bones and helps prevent osteoporosis.

self when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and improve your selfesteem.

Exercise boosts energy

Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. Exercise and physical activity deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and help your heart and lungs work more efficiently. When your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you have more energy to go about your daily activities.

Exercise promotes better sleep

Exercise improves mood

Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. You may also feel better about your appearance and your-

Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep - just don’t exercise too close to bedtime or you may be too energised to

Exercise can be fun

Exercise and physical activity can be a fun way to spend some time. It gives you a chance to unwind, enjoy the outdoors or simply engage in activities that make you happy. Physical activity can also help you connect with family or friends in a fun social setting. So, take a dance class, run in the park or join a sports team.

Exercise and physical acity are a great way to feel better, gain health benefits and have fun. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you want to lose weight or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more.

Remember to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise programme, especially if you haven't exercised for a long time, have chronic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis or if you have any concerns.

Pomeroon Oil Mill encourages healthy choices

Acknowledging the renowned health benefits associated with coconut oil, Pomeroon Oil Mill Inc recommenced operations earlier this year as it sought to meet the health needs of the nation.

Today, the oil company, which is located in Charity (Pomeroon, Essequibo), manufactures the Golden Brook Refined Coconut Oil - a product that received not only overwhelming but positive reviews during GUYEXPO 2014 held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.

Pomeroon Oil Mill Inc commenced operations on 5 June 1999 after being commissioned by the late president, Janet Jagan. At that time, the company’s product was branded “Golden Brook Vegetable Oil” due to the market demands for alternative vegetable oils. But the name was also chosen to evade the negative criticisms associated with coconut oil at the time. By 2006, “Golden Brook Vegetable Oil” was taken off the local market.

However, by 2014, the myths surrounding the usage of coconut oil were overthrown by the overwhelming reports that highlighted its healing benefits. As a result, the demands for coconut oil soared and Pomeroon Oil Mill wasted no time in capitalizing on that remarkable opportunity. It was then the company re-branded and relaunched the product under the name “Golden Brook Refined Coconut Oil”.

Today, Golden Brook Refined Coconut Oil is manufactured under strict food quality assurance, packaged and labelled to meet international food standards.

Golden Brook Refined Coconut Oil, unlike other coconut oils, has all of the benefits, but, according to the company, none of the taste or smell of traditionally (cottage industry) produced coconut oil.

According to the

company, its product is not boiled but is expeller pressed, cholesterol free with zero trans fat. Additionally, it was made clear that the company does not use solvent extracts. No GMO and is odour and flavour free.

“It is the best choice for sautéing, frying and baking without the heavy taste or smell of coconut oil, diluting the intended flavour of your cooked foods,” the company said.

By using coconut oil to cook, persons can war off many diseases and illnesses. Coconut oil helps to regulate the blood sugar level and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the oil helps to improve insulin within the bodybut this is just the tip of the ice berg.

The Coconut Research Centre stated that “coconut oil is of special interest because it possesses healing properties far beyond that of any other dietary oil”. Pacific Islanders, in particular, strongly believe that the oil produced from coconut is the cure for all illnesses. Others have dubbed it “the healthiest oil on earth”.

According to Authority Nutrition, coconut oil’s unique combination of fatty acids helps the brain to function more effectively. In other words, it contains a lot of medium chain triglycerides, which are metabolized differently, thereby having therapeutic effects on several brain disorders.

In a world where obesity remains a major health problem, coconut oil is effective in weight loss. It increases energy expenditure creating a domino effect in which fat is burn at a rapid pace. Studies have indicated that 15-30 grams of MCTs per day increased 24-hour energy expenditure by 5%, totalling about 120 calories per day. Join us next week for the many delicious dishes that can be made using coconut oil.

Home & Cooking

Ginger Beer

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

Classic Silver-and-White Centrepiece

Ingredients:

1 lb ginger

10 cups of water

2 cups of dark brown sugar

2 cinnamon sticks

Method:

6 cloves 5 3x3-inch pieces of orange peel

14-inch piece of orange peel Uncooked rice to help with fermentation

Grate ginger with the fine side of the grater. In a large pot, combine all ingredients, except cinnamon and the (3x3) pieces of orange peel. Bring to a rapid boil for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and strain. Use a cheese cloth to remove ginger bits. Pour into a large glass jug. Break orange peel and cinnamon sticks into pieces; add to ginger beer, and bring to room temperature.

Place 12 uncooked rice grains in each glass jar; pour into glass jars and let rest. Ferment for 5-7 days. Discard cinnamon sticks and orange peel. Serve over crushed ice or ice cubes.

Caribbean Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

Create this simple, classic centrepiece with dishes and ornaments you have on hand. Top sprigs of fresh greenery with sparkling sliver and white ornaments, trees and mercury glass candle holders.

1 lb or about 3 1/2 cup all purpose flour

1 lb or 2 cups sugar

1 lb or 4 sticks butter, room temperature

10 eggs

1 tbsp + 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground cloves

1 tbsp orange zest

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp almond extract 4 cups fruit mixture

Candy-Inspired Centrepiece

This simple, shatter-proof centrepiece is made from foam candy cane spheres, tree trimmings, red feathers and glittery plastic ornaments, all tucked inside a Chinese takeout-style box covered with green glitter.

Method:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9 inch cake pans. Set aside. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves; set aside.

Place butter and sugar in a large bowl and mix until fluffy and light in colour. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to make sure egg is incorporated. Please don’t rush this step, adding the eggs too soon or too many at one time can cause the mixture to curdle or separate.

Next add fruits mixture, orange zest, vanilla extract and almond extract to mixture, mix until

incorporated. Add flour to wet ingredients, mix until smooth. Divide equally between the 2 pans.

Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour. Remove from oven and immediately pour 1/2

cup of rum over each cake. I like to add rum to my cake when it’s cooled and every day until cake is eaten. If you don’t like too strong of a rum flavour, just add after it comes out of the oven.

Silver Bells Layer garland with a collection of colourful ornaments in your favourite tray to create an irresistible holiday centrepiece. You can dress up a vintage-inspired porcelain tray with bold accessories and use a mixture of silver, blue and gold hues for a twist on the traditional red and green.

Use a hot knife to slice cake perfectly. Run your knife underneath the hot water from the tap, dry it off with a towel, and then cut your cake. You may need to re-heat the knife a couple times throughout the process but it works like a charm, especially on thick, rich cakes. Open jars instantly with a bottle opener. Gently lift the edge of the jar’s lid until you hear the seal pop, and then unscrew like normal.

Use two plates to safely cut a lot of little tomatoes at once. Lay the tomatoes you wish to slice in half on a small plate. Place another plate on top and then run a very sharp knife through the gap between the two plates, holding the top plate securely with your other hand. Voila! Tons of tomatoes cut at one time with all 10 fingers accounted for! Use a plastic knife to cut brownies neatly without sticking.

GREATEST KITCHEN TIPS HOME HELP

Wooden cutting boards that see a lot of use can have a grimy build-up on the surface. To freshen up your cutting board, halve a lemon, pour a generous amount of salt on the board, and use the lemon as if it were a sponge to scrub off any old residue. Next, use a scraper to scrape up the salt and lemon mixture. Finally, rinse with water and set out to dry. Boots smelling stinky? Spritz the insides with diluted vodka; let dry. No more odour. Help the zipper on your tool bag slide along its track more easily by lightly running over the teeth with wax paper.

Times Creative Writing

Every Christmas Eve, Rob, Fred and Micky sing in front of all the inhabitants of the ice pack.

In return, they get a golden star to attach to the Christmas tree.

However, on this particular Christmas Eve morning, Micky gets up and starts to sneeze. "You’ll have to sing without me tonight," said in a hoarse voice.

"Oh no!" replied his friends, “We can’t do that!" But then again, it would be terribly sad for the inhabitants of the ice cap if they couldn’t have their Christmas carols this year!

They had to find a solution to cure Micky, and quick ly! The three friends went to see doc tor Lolo. He sighed: "There’s only one way we can cure this in such a short time…"

"How?" cried Rob and Fred as one, as Micky gave yet anoth er sneeze, burying his beak in his handkerchief.

Indian Ocean!" the little penguins said despairingly.

"So no Christmas carols this year then!" sniffed Fred, letting a tear fall into the icy water. Pincho, the little icefish, who was so surprised by this warm, salty drop of water that

weed from the Indian Ocean.

"The Indian Ocean!” exclaimed Pincho. “Hang on, I’ve got an idea… Give me a moment…”

"The only thing that could cure this cold in a few hours is the golden seaweed to be found in the Indian Ocean," explained the doctor.

"But we’re miles away from the

his head out of the sea.

popped

"What’s going on?" he asked. Rob and Fred told Pincho that Micky was ill and that the only thing that could make him better was the golden sea-

And with that, the little icefish vanished back into the ice-cold water. In the depths of the Arctic Ocean, Pincho laid out his plan. There wasn’t a sec-

With all the energy he could muster, the little fish sent signals out to all his friends all over the ocean.

They passed on the message, and in a few minutes, the message crossed the Arctic Ocean, then the Pacific Ocean, before finally arriving in the Indian Ocean. The butterfly fish were quick to spot the Golden Seaweed and fin stroke by fin stroke, they made their way to the Arctic Ocean. It was barely midday when Pincho handed over the golden seaweed to the little penguins. Micky gobbled down a cup of seaweed herbal tea and in no time at all, his voice was back.

Pincho was the hero of the hour and his friends got a huge round of applause too.

How proud they were to have the honour of attaching the beautiful golden star to the top of the Christmas tree once again!

De

De snow, de sleet, de lack o’ heat, De wishy-washy sunlight, De lip turn blue, de cold, “ACHOO!” De runny nose, de frostbite,

De creakin’ knee, de misery, De joint dem all rheumatic, De icy bed (de blanket dead), De burs’ pipe in de attic.

De window a-shake, de glass near break, De wind dat cut like razor, De wonderin’ why you never buy De window from dat double-glazer.

De heavy coat, zip to de throat, De nose an’ ears all pinky, De weepin’ sky, de clothes can’t dry, De day dem long an’ inky.

De icy road, de heavy load, De las’ minute Christmus shoppin’ De cuss an’ fret ‘cause you feget De ribbon an’ de wrappin’.

De mud, de grime, de slush, de slime, De place gloomy since November, De sinkin’ heart is jus’ de start, o’ De wintertime, December.

Valerie Bloom

Santa's Lap

I like to visit Santa Claus

When Christmas time is near. It's fun to climb up on his lap And whisper in his ear.

He says, "My dear, have you been good? Have you done what Mother said you should?

Do you brush your teeth and hair each day? Are you kind to others when you play? I listen to each question And answer every one. Although I am ashamed to say I must say no to some. But Santa never scares me; He doesn't even scold. He just says, "Try again, my dear, You're a fine lad, I am told."

Gee, I like to visit Santa Claus When Christmas time is near. It's fun to climb up on his lap And whisper in his ear...

Denny Davis

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

Prepare to act quickly if you want to improve your financial situation. A beneficial deal may pass you by if you hesitate. Getting involved with a co-worker will have negative consequences.

Focus on your personal life and the changes you want to make. A meaningful, longlasting relationship will unfold if you and your partner share ideas and build your plans together.

(May 21June 20)

Find balance between what you want and what is required of you. You will be unhappy if you don’t set aside time to take care of your personal needs.

(June 21July 22)

It’s time to put your great ideas to work. Find people who are willing and able to help you get your ventures off the ground. Positive thoughts will promote constructive actions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) ARIES (March 21April 19)

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

An interesting proposal is headed your way, but make sure you negotiate wisely. There is no room for error. After you sign, it will be too late to make changes.

Keep your personal life a secret to avoid being criticized or shunned. Take the time to re-evaluate the decisions you are faced with and the consequences involved.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

Someone you are close to will interfere in your personal life. Proceed with caution to avoid making a personal mistake and possibly losing a good friendship.

Your future will be what you make it. You will receive plenty of advice, but it’s up to you to make the most of your capabilities.

Your popularity is gaining. People will be impressed with your knowledge and integrity and will gladly help you move your ideas forward if asked for assistance.

Concentrate on your financial status. Call in favors and clear up debts. Make long-needed updates to your personal records and begin the year with a clean slate.

A new venture or job change will have a positive influence on your way of life. Personal and professional partnerships will provide a stimulating challenge and interesting benefits.

Your emotions will be difficult to control. Refrain from making unnecessary changes. You’ll be attracted to someone, but you should take matters slowly to avoid regrets and heartache.

Apple defeats $1bn court case alleging anti-competition

Apple has been found

not guilty of engaging in anti-competitive behaviour by a jury in California.

The long-running suit focused on Apple's 2006 update to its iTunes software which meant only iPods could play music purchased from the store.

Consumers alleged this violated US antitrust laws, and sued for $350m (£222m) in damages.

The trial had featured emails sent by Apple founder Steve Jobs before his death in 2012.

The class action suit represented as many as 8 million iPod customers and 500 resellers, and could have cost Apple as much as $1bn, as anti-competition damage rewards are automatically tripled under US law.

Lawyers representing

Tech news

Pconsumers and electronics retailers argued that Apple used its iTunes software to force buyers to use iPods instead of rival devices between 2006 and 2009. (The

software was updated in 2009 to remove the restrictions.)

The lawyers argued this shut out other devices artificially inflated the price of

iPods and used the emails from Mr Jobs to buttress this argument. In one, sent in 2003, Mr Jobs worried about competition from Musicmatch, a

Instagram deletes millions of accounts in spam purge

hoto-sharing app Instagram has removed millions of accounts believed to be posting spam, angering many legitimate users.

People who lost a lot of followers criticised the action, dubbing it the "Instagram Rapture".

Like its parent company Facebook, Instagram routinely removes accounts to limit spam and prevent users buying followers to appear more popular.

Rapper Akon reportedly lost 56% of his followers in the cull.

Figures collated by developer Zach Allianot affiliated to Instagram - totted up the impact of the purge on the site's top 100 accounts.

The big losers were Justin Bieber (minus 3,538,228 followers), and an online marketing specialist called Wellington Campos, which

lost 3,284,304 followers overnight. Instagram's own account on the site lost 18,880,211 followers overnight. Instagram had warned its users that the deletion was coming in a blog post earlier this month.

"We've been deactivating spammy accounts from Instagram on an ongoing basis to improve your experience," wrote chief executive and founder Kevin Systrom.

"As part of this effort, we will be deleting these accounts forever, so they will no longer be included in follower counts. This means that some of you will see a change in your follower count."

Reacting to the purge, many of the site's users directed harsh words at Instagramwhile others saw the lighter side. (Excerpted from BBC)

Jeans made that will prevent 'digital pickpocketing'

Apair of jeans contain ing material that blocks wire less signals is being developed in con junction with anti-vi rus firm Norton.

The trousers are intended to stop thieves hacking into ra dio frequency identification (RFID) tagged passports or contactless payment cards.

According to security exthis type of theft is a growing problem. The jeans are designed

by online clothing company Betabrand and use a silverbased material to block signals. They are due to go on sale in February.

Security software maker Norton teamed up with San Francisco-based Betabrand in October to make the jeans and a blazer. The jeans will retail at US$151 (£96) and the blazer at $198. (Excerpted from BBC)

Tech ByTe

The Netherlands launched its first-ever intelligent bicycle, fitted with an array of electronic devices to help bring down the high accident rate among elderly cyclists in the bicycle-mad country.

Developed for the government by the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), the intelligent bicycle prototype runs on electricity, and sports a forward-looking radar mounted below the handlebars and a camera in the rear mudguard.

A commercially available bicycle is expected to be on the market in the next two years and should sell for between 1,700 euros (US$1,800) to 3,200 euros per bicycle.

The forward and rearward detection devices on the test bike are linked through an onboard computer with a vibrating warning system installed in the bicycle's saddle and handlebars to alert cyclists to impending danger.

The saddle vibrates when other cyclists ap-

software company, opening its own music store.

"We need to make sure that when Music Match launches their download music store they cannot use iPod," he wrote.

"Is this going to be an issue?"

However, the jurors sided with Apple, who argued the upgrade to its iTunes

7.0

software substantially improved the user experience, and thus was not subject to anti-competitive violations.

Earlier this year, Apple announced it would cease manufacturing the iPod Classic, one of the signature products that led Apple's revival under Mr Jobs. (BBC)

Intelligent

Bicycle Warns of Danger

proach from behind, while the handlebars do the same when obstacles appear ahead.

It also has a cradle in which a computer tablet can be inserted, to wirelessly connect and "talk" to the bicycle through a dedicated application.

The mounted tablet also flashes a bright signal if there is an approaching obstacle in the bicycle's path, like a lamppost, or if another cyclist comes up from behind intending to pass.

"Accidents often happen when cyclists look behind them or get a fright when they are passed at

high speed," said Maurice

one of TNO's research scientists involved in the project.

"The onboard system utilizes technology already at work in the automotive industry," he said.

Kwakkernaat said the devices would be useful for cyclists propelled along by the bicycle's electrical motor, which can reach a top speed of 25 kilometers per hour (16 mph).

The current prototype weighs a hefty 25 kilograms (55 pounds) but researchers are working on making the on-board systems smaller. (Excerpted from Discovery)

Guyana Visual Arts Competition winners display ‘craftsmanship and imagination’

In 2012 when the first Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition was held, the questions of who will be a part of the next art generation and where they would come from were answered. The 2012 competition provided a list of new names that will, in time to come, join the established artists in the pantheon of Guyanese art.

From that competition and the most recent, the 2014 Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition (GVACE), the organizers have come to realise that “art-making is not the precious preserve of the elite or well-cultured persons”.

Art in Guyana is being created from various levels of our society, which has re-

sulted in a “particular character”. In this light, a new category was added to the five previously judged in the Competition and Exhibition; Fine Arts.

Fine Arts for the GVACE is defined as, “traditional or contemporized designs of any kind, which show a high degree of craftsmanship and imagination”. This “may or may not incorporate a variety of materials, e.g., textiles, clay, wood, etc, in the same object”.

According to Alim Hosein, the coordinator of the GVACE, the enthusiastic response to the Visual Arts Competitions has shown “the spirit of imaginative creation in visual form is alive in Guyana”, so much so that some artists are still searching for a “new style and language to express their imagination”.

The 2014 GVACE award ceremony was held on 17 December 2014 at the National Cultural Centre. Immediately after the ceremony, the Visual Arts Exhibition was opened at Castellani House, which will run until 31 January 2015.

Prizes were distributed for a total of six categories (Painting, Photography, Sculpture, Drawing, Fine Arts and Ceramics) along with two special prizes (the Promise Award and the

Celebration of Christmas in Guyana dates back to the 15th century

By Peter Halder

he observation and cel-

Tebration of Christmas in Guyana dates back to the 15th century. It began, circa 1627, among the Dutch immigrants who had established permanent settlements in Essequibo. The celebration later spread to Berbice in 1627 and then Demerara in 1746.

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

In the new British colony, the largest ethnic population were African slaves captured by British and Dutch slave ships and brought to Guyana

to work on colonial sugar plantations.

Christmas was a popular season during the slavery era for most of the population except the Amerindians who lived in scattered communities in the hinterland observed and celebrated their own tribal festivals totally unrelated to Christianity.

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

The religious observation and celebration of Christmas may be linked to the com-

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

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

Church sermons featured the birth and life of Jesus Christ. An added feature was baptisms and marriages on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. The popularity of the Christmas services and their added attractions gave the slaves forbearance

to their miserable lives, remembering how Jesus Christ was beaten and crucified on the cross. Christmas celebrations quickly spread throughout the country and was popularly known as “the Season of Festivity”. From then to today, Guyanese extend to family, friends and anyone “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy Festive Season”.

Christmas and the Christmas Season were celebrated not only by the African slaves but by their white masters as well, each in their own way. The occasion expanded from just religious services to family parties and get-togethers on Christmas and Boxing Day. Special lunches and dinners for families and friends translated into feasting and drinking which remains the culture until this day. The whole country became a moving scene of feasting, drinking, dancing and gaiety. Cheerful groups traversed the lanes and paths in villages dressed in gaudy trappings, hair cut and fashioned in a variety of shapes, some decorated with beads, bits of ribbons and tinsel ornaments. They were accompanied by drumbeat and singing. Some wore wigs. Christmas also became a time for gift giving. It perhaps was initiated by the white gentry who shared out clothing, food items and drinks, including alcohol, to their slaves and at the same time wishing them a “Merry Christmas”. The slaves accepted the gifts for what they were worth but never for-

Ministry

got the whip lashes they received or expected in the future from their masters. But inspired by the idea and the Christian charity of it all, slaves also began to give gifts of whatever they could afford to their immediate families. And so gift giving became consonant with the

This

in

The Kaburi jungle, which is known as a popular mining area, provides a breathtaking nature scene. It is filled with rich biodiversity and streams of refreshing black water.

Kaburi is an Amerindian village located along the Bartica-Potaro Road in Region Seven and covers an area of 41.57 square miles.

The population of the village is 275 persons with 55 families/households of primarily Akawaio and Patamona descendants. The village was established in 1935 and recently received its title from the Government of Guyana.

Some members of the village are involved in small-scale timber harvesting. In an effort to ensure the sustainable management of the village forest resources and to mitigate the effects of timber harvesting on the environment, the Kaburi Village Council recently requested assistance from the UNDP/GEF Small Grants Programme to implement a sustainable forest management project for the village. The total cost for the project is G$6.8M of which G$3.4M is being funded by the UNDP/GEF Small Grants Programme. (Photos by Anna M)

By Melvin Durai

WLast Laugh

hether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Solstice or some other occasion, you probably give gifts to your family, friends, and that special co-worker whose name you picked out of a hat.

You spend hours searching for just the right gift: an alarm clock with a built-in radio, television and coffeemaker; a remotecontrol vacuum cleaner; a

spend your money, five million workers may lose their jobs -- and that's just in Thailand. Imagine the impact on China!

So buy lots of gifts, as many as you can afford. But don't buy them for your friends and family, especially if they're welloff. Whatever you buy, they don't need. Whatever they need, you can't afford.

Try buying gifts for people who could really use your generosity: The homeless man who

weighing machine that's smart enough to ignore the first 40 pounds.

You endure untold hardships -- crammed parking lots, crowded stores, long lines -- just to show your loved ones that you care enough to buy them the very best of whatever's on sale.

You're in the spirit of giving -- and I don't want to discourage you. It's better to give than to receive. Just ask any boxer.

Besides, the economy needs you. If you don't

needs a blanket, the destitute woman who needs a heater, the poor child who needs a book bag -- and a few Harry Potter books.

How do you find such people? Simple. Just look around. Unless you live in a fancy community, you'll probably see many people who could use a helping hand, people who will remember your kindness for months, perhaps years. Some may even name their firstborn after you. But please don't make any demands. It's just not prop-

er. So I've been told.

If you must buy gifts for your friends and family, buy them something small, something that will surprise them and also be useful to them, such as a roll of toilet paper.

If that seems insufficient, write a poem on it or something. "This paper is as soft as your heart; I bought it on sale at WalMart. It's a gift you won't soon forget; as long as you visit the toilet."

A little poetry can go a long way -- especially with modern plumbing.

Think of the benefits of this strategy:

You won't have to spend hours in the shopping mall, racking your brain over what to buy for the person who already has too much. "She has fifty pairs of underwear. Maybe I should buy her an underwear organizer."

You won't be forcing your friends to lie when they unwrap your gifts. "Wow! An underwear organizer! I've always wanted one of these. Ever since I got my first pair of underwear."

You probably won't get any gifts in return, so you won't have to organize a yard sale next year.

You: "Anybody want to buy a plastic fish that sings? It's cheaper than a real fish -- and you can't smell it."

Wisecracking neighbor: "If you can't smell it, you can't sell it."

You: "If you don't beat it, I'll make you eat it."

Best of all, you'll feel good about helping the needy, instead of the greedy. Who knows, it could be the best feeling you've had all year.

The Little Man

A teenager waltzed into a jewellery store to buy a cross for her boyfriend. The store owner showed her a selection, and she pointed to three: "Can I see that one, that one, and the one with the little man on it?"

"Oh," the store owner replied. "You mean Jesus?"

***Entrance to Heaven***

Three men die on Christmas Eve and go to heaven, where they’re met by Saint Peter. “In order to get in,” he tells them, “you must each produce something representative of the holidays.”

The first man digs into his pockets and pulls out a match and lights it. “This represents a candle of hope.” Impressed, Peter lets him in.

The second man pulls out a tangle of keys and shakes them. “These are bells.” He’s allowed in too.

“So,” Peter says to the third man, “what do you have?”

The third man proudly shows him a pair of red panties.

“What do these have to do with Christmas?” asks Peter.

“They’re Carol’s.”

Into the Church

Three buildings in town were overrun by squirrels—the town hall, the hardware store, and the church. The town hall brought in some cats. But after they tore up all the files, the mayor got rid of the predators, and soon the squirrels were back.

The hardware store humanely trapped the squirrels and set them free outside town. But three days later, the squirrels climbed back in.

Only the church came up with an effective solution. They baptized the squirrels and made them members. Now they see them only on Christmas and Easter.

Honest Questions

Two kids are on their way to Sunday school when one says to the other, “What do you think about this Satan stuff?”

“Well, you remember Santa? This could turn out to be your dad too.”

The Oy of Giving

A mother gave her grown son two sweaters for Hanukkah. The next time he visited, he made sure to wear one. As he entered her home, instead of the expected smile, she frowned.

“What’s the matter?” she asked. “You didn’t like the other one?”

Christmas Shopping

It was Christmas and the judge was in a merry mood as he asked the prisoner, "What are you charged with?"

"Doing my Christmas shopping early," replied the defendant.

"That's no offence," said the judge.

"It is if you do it before the shops are open," countered the prosecutor.

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

A Russian couple was walking down the street when the man felt a drop hit his nose. "I think it's raining," he said to his wife.

"No, that felt more like snow to me," she replied. "No, I'm sure it was just rain, he said." Well, as these things go, they were about to have a major argument about whether it was raining or snowing. Just then they saw a minor communist party official walking toward them. "Let's not fight about it," the man said, "let's ask Comrade Rudolph whether it's officially raining or snowing."

As the official approached, the man said, "Tell us, Comrade Rudolph, is it officially raining or snowing?"

"It's raining, of course," he answered and walked on. But the woman insisted: "I know that felt like snow!" To which the man quietly replied: "Rudolph the Red knows rain, dear!"

Christmas Cheapskate

After being away on business for a week before Christmas, Tom thought it would be nice to bring his wife a little gift.

"How about some perfume?" he asked the cosmetics clerk.

She showed him a bottle costing $50.

"That's a bit much," said Tom, so she returned with a smaller bottle for $30.

"That’s still quite a bit," Tom groused.

Growing disgusted, the clerk brought out a tiny $15 bottle.

Tom grew agitated, "What I mean," he said, "is I'd like to see something real cheap.”

So the clerk handed him a mirror.